bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consumption smoothing, risk sharing and financial integration
Authors: Donadelli Michael , Gufler Ivan
Published: June 2020

Theories indicate that financial integration should allow economies to better share risk and thus improve consumption smoothing. We construct two widely used price‐based measures of financial integration (i.e., the standard correlation and the adjustedR‐squared) and test whether consumption volatility declines as international equity markets become more integrated. Pooled and panel estimates for three different groups of countries (i.e., G7, G20 and EU) provide no significant evidence of improved consumption smoothing as financial integration rises. This evidence is supported by a battery of robustness checks and holds over time. Taken together, our results suggest that convergence in international equity prices does not necessarily represent the channel through which risk‐sharing opportunities arise or consumption smoothing improves.
Outcome after surgical management of canine insulinoma in 49 cases
Authors: Cleland Nicholas Trevor , Morton John , Delisser Peter James
Published: June 2020

Canine insulinoma has historically been associated with a poor prognosis; however, prolonged survival times have recently been reported. Prognostic indicators that are available preoperatively are of limited predictive accuracy, and consensus on post‐operative treatment recommendations is lacking. The objectives of this study were to describe outcomes in dogs with insulinoma treated surgically, and to assess whether selected potential risk factors are strongly associated with outcomes after surgery. Medical records of two institutions were searched for dogs with insulinoma that were treated surgically. Forty‐nine dogs were included. Thirty‐nine dogs (80%) had immediate resolution of hypoglycaemia and 10 (20%) remained persistently hypoglycaemic postoperatively. The median survival time (MST) for all dogs was 561 days. The MST for dogs that had resolution of hypoglycaemia was 746 days. The median of the overall euglycaemic time (times from surgery to first detection of hypoglycaemia at any time point after surgery) for all dogs was 424 days. Forty‐four percent of those that had resolution of hypoglycaemia experienced recurrence of hypoglycaemia by 2 years postoperatively. Pathological stage was a predictor of persistent post‐operative hypoglycaemia which, in turn, was a predictor of survival time. These results show that dogs with insulinoma can have prolonged survival, and that pathological stage is a predictor of outcome.
A Generative Approach for Scheduling Multi-Robot Cooperative Three-Dimensional Printing
Authors: Poudel Laxmi , Zhou Wenchao , Sha Zhenghui
Published: June 2020

Cooperative 3D printing (C3DP) is a novel approach to additive manufacturing, where multiple printhead-carrying mobile robots work cooperatively to print the desired part. The core of C3DP is the chunk-based printing strategy in which the desired part is first split into smaller chunks and then the chunks are assigned to individual robots to print and bond. These robots will work simultaneously in a scheduled sequence to print the entire part. Although promising, C3DP lacks a generative approach that enables automatic chunking and scheduling. In this study, we aim to develop a generative approach that can automatically generate different print schedules for a chunked object by exploring a larger solution space that is often beyond the capability of human cognition. The generative approach contains (1) a random generator of diverse print schedules based on an adjacency matrix that represents a directed dependency tree structure of chunks; (2) a set of geometric constraints against which the randomly generated schedules will be checked for validation, and (3) a printing time evaluator for comparing the performance of all valid schedules. We demonstrate the efficacy of the generative approach using two case studies: a large simple rectangular bar and a miniature folding sport utility vehicle (SUV) with more complicated geometry. This study demonstrates that the generative approach can generate a large number of different print schedules for collision-free C3DP, which cannot be explored solely using human heuristics. This generative approach lays the foundation for building the optimization approach of C3DP scheduling.
Treatment Planning Optimization in Irreversible Electroporation for Complete Ablation of Variously Sized Cervical Tumors: A Numerical Study
Authors: Ding Lujia , Moser Michael , Luo Yigang , Zhang Wenjun , Zhang Bing
Published: June 2020

Irreversible electroporation (IRE), a relatively new energy-based tumor ablation technology, has shown itself in the last decade to be able to safely ablate tumors with favorable clinical outcomes, yet little work has been done on optimizing the IRE protocol to variously sized tumors. Incomplete tumor ablation has been shown to be the main reason leading to the local recurrence and thus treatment failure. The goal of this study was to develop a general optimization approach to optimize the IRE protocol for cervical tumors in different sizes, while minimizing the damage to normal tissues. This kind of approach can lay a foundation for future personalized treatment of IRE. First, a statistical IRE cervical tumor death model was built using previous data in our group. Then, a multi-objective optimization problem model was built, in which the decision variables are five IRE-setting parameters, namely, the pulse strength (U), the length of active tip (H), the number of pulses delivered in one round between a pair of electrodes (A), the distance between electrodes (D), and the number of electrodes (N). The domains of the decision variables were determined based on the clinical experience. Finally, the problem model was solved by using nondominated sorting genetic algorithms II (NSGA-II) algorithm to give respective optimal protocol for three sizes of cervical tumors. Every protocol was assessed by the evaluation criterion established in the study to show the efficacy in a more straightforward way. The results of the study demonstrate this approach can theoretically provide the optimal IRE protocol for different sizes of tumors and may be generalizable to other types, sizes, and locations of tumors.
Magnetic properties and resistive switching in mixture films and nanolaminates consisting of iron and silicon oxides grown by atomic layer deposition
Authors: Kukli Kaupo , Kemell Marianna , Castán Helena , Dueñas Salvador , Link Joosep , Stern Raivo , Heikkilä Mikko J. , Jõgiaas Taivo , Kozlova Jekaterina , Rähn Mihkel , Mizohata Kenichiro , Ritala Mikko , Leskelä Markku
Published: June 2020

SiO2-Fe2O3 mixture films and nanolaminates were grown by atomic layer deposition from iron trichloride, hexakis(ethylamino)disilane, and ozone at 300 °C. Orthorhombic ɛ-Fe2O3 was identified in Fe2O3 reference films and in Fe2O3 layers grown to certain thicknesses between amorphous SiO2 layers. SiO2-Fe2O3 films could be magnetized in external fields, exhibiting saturation and hysteresis in nonlinear magnetization-field curves. Electrical resistive switching, markedly dependent on the ratio of the component oxides, was also observed in films with proper composition. For relatively conductive films, application of small signal measurements allowed one to record memory maps with notable squareness and defined distinction between high and low conductance states.
To Stream or Not to Stream? A Case of Social Media Management Within a Professional Sport Organization
Authors: Wymer Sarah , Naraine Michael L. , Thompson Ashleigh-Jane , Martin Andy J.
Published: June 2020

This is a fictional case based on the actual management of a social media strategy that occurred in a professional sport organization in Queensland, Australia. The intention of the case is to explore a range of social media management themes such as live streaming, audience reach, fan engagement, and decision making as they apply to a sport organization. The case primarily focuses on social media live streaming (specifically Facebook Live) and aims to provide an understanding of live video posts in comparison with other post types (i.e., photo, video, text, and links). The case develops within the theoretical frameworks of relationship marketing, fan engagement, and social media, and is suitable for students learning about sport marketing, sport sponsorship, promotion and public relations, and other communication courses in sport management. Specifically, students are tasked with developing a range of potential strategies to support the lead character, Michael Battersby, in implementing live streaming within a social media strategy.
Strain rate–dependent mechanical metamaterials
Authors: Janbaz S. , Narooei K. , van Manen T. , Zadpoor A. A.
Published: June 2020

Metamaterials with strain rate–dependent buckling behavior, switchable auxeticity, and negative viscoelasticity are demonstrated.
Improving metabolic fitness of antitumor immune cells
Authors: Van den Bossche Jan
Published: June 2020

CD8
+
T cells accumulate lipids that drive metabolic dysfunction in tumors.
An HIV Vaccine Targeting the V2 Region of the HIV Envelope Induces a Highly Durable Polyfunctional Fc-Mediated Antibody Response in Rhesus Macaques
Authors: Powell Rebecca L. , Weiss Svenja , Fox Alisa , Liu Xiaomei , Itri Vincenza , Jiang Xunqing , Luo Christina C. , Spencer David A. , Pandey Shilpi , Cheever Tracy , Fuller Deborah H. , Totrov Maxim , Hessell Ann J. , Haigwood Nancy L. , Kong Xiang-Peng , Zolla-Pazner Susan
Published: June 2020

The only HIV vaccine trial for which protective efficacy was detected correlated this efficacy with V2-specific Abs that were effectively nonneutralizing. This result has fueled a decade of HIV vaccine research focused on designing an HIV vaccine capable of eliciting V2-focused, polyfunctional Abs that effectively bind HIV and trigger various leukocytes to kill the virus and restrict viral spread. From the numerous vaccine candidates designed and tested as part of our V2-focused preclinical vaccine program, we have identified immunogens and a vaccine regimen that induces a highly durable and polyfunctional V2-focused Ab response in rhesus macaques, described herein.
Draft Genome Sequences of
Sphingomonas
Species Associated with the International Space Station
Authors: Bijlani Swati , Singh Nitin K. , Mason Christopher E. , Wang Clay C. C. , Venkateswaran Kasthuri
Published: June 2020

The draft genome sequences of three
Sphingomonas
strains isolated from the International Space Station (ISS) were assembled. These genomic sequences will help in understanding the influence of microgravity conditions on their potential bioactive compound production and other important characteristics compared to their Earth counterparts.
The Adaptive designs CONSORT Extension (ACE) statement: a checklist with explanation and elaboration guideline for reporting randomised trials that use an adaptive design
Authors: Dimairo Munyaradzi , Pallmann Philip , Wason James , Todd Susan , Jaki Thomas , Julious Steven A , Mander Adrian P , Weir Christopher J , Koenig Franz , Walton Marc K , Nicholl Jon P , Coates Elizabeth , Biggs Katie , Hamasaki Toshimitsu , Proschan Michael A , Scott John A , Ando Yuki , Hind Daniel , Altman Douglas G
Published: June 2020

Adaptive designs (ADs) allow pre-planned changes to an ongoing trial without compromising the validity of conclusions and it is essential to distinguish pre-planned from unplanned changes that may also occur. The reporting of ADs in randomised trials is inconsistent and needs improving. Incompletely reported AD randomised trials are difficult to reproduce and are hard to interpret and synthesise. This consequently hampers their ability to inform practice as well as future research and contributes to research waste. Better transparency and adequate reporting will enable the potential benefits of ADs to be realised.

This extension to the Consolidated Standards Of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) 2010 statement was developed to enhance the reporting of randomised AD clinical trials. We developed an Adaptive designs CONSORT Extension (ACE) guideline through a two-stage Delphi process with input from multidisciplinary key stakeholders in clinical trials research in the public and private sectors from 21 countries, followed by a consensus meeting. Members of the CONSORT Group were involved during the development process.

The paper presents the ACE checklists for AD randomised trial reports and abstracts, as well as an explanation with examples to aid the application of the guideline. The ACE checklist comprises seven new items, nine modified items, six unchanged items for which additional explanatory text clarifies further considerations for ADs, and 20 unchanged items not requiring further explanatory text. The ACE abstract checklist has one new item, one modified item, one unchanged item with additional explanatory text for ADs, and 15 unchanged items not requiring further explanatory text.

The intention is to enhance transparency and improve reporting of AD randomised trials to improve the interpretability of their results and reproducibility of their methods, results and inference. We also hope indirectly to facilitate the much-needed knowledge transfer of innovative trial designs to maximise their potential benefits.
Prospective evaluation of improving fluoroquinolone exposure using centralised therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) in patients with tuberculosis (PERFECT): a study protocol of a prospective multicentre cohort study
Authors: van den Elsen Simone HJ , Sturkenboom Marieke GG , Akkerman Onno , Barkane Linda , Bruchfeld Judith , Eather Geoffrey , Heysell Scott K , Hurevich Henadz , Kuksa Liga , Kunst Heinke , Kuhlin Johanna , Manika Katerina , Moschos Charalampos , Mpagama Stellah G , Muñoz Torrico Marcela , Skrahina Alena , Sotgiu Giovanni , Tadolini Marina , Tiberi Simon , Volpato Francesca , van der Werf Tjip S , Wilson Malcolm R , Zúñiga Joaquin , Touw Daan J , Migliori Giovanni B , Alffenaar Jan-Willem
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Global multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) treatment success rates remain suboptimal. Highly active WHO group A drugs moxifloxacin and levofloxacin show intraindividual and interindividual pharmacokinetic variability which can cause low drug exposure. Therefore, therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of fluoroquinolones is recommended to personalise the drug dosage, aiming to prevent the development of drug resistance and optimise treatment. However, TDM is considered laborious and expensive, and the clinical benefit in MDR-TB has not been extensively studied. This observational multicentre study aims to determine the feasibility of centralised TDM and to investigate the impact of fluoroquinolone TDM on sputum conversion rates in patients with MDR-TB compared with historical controls.

Methods and analysis

Patients aged 18 years or older with sputum smear and culture-positive pulmonary MDR-TB will be eligible for inclusion. Patients receiving TDM using a limited sampling strategy (t=0 and t=5 hours) will be matched to historical controls without TDM in a 1:2 ratio. Sample analysis and dosing advice will be performed in a centralised laboratory. Centralised TDM will be considered feasible if >80% of the dosing recommendations are returned within 7 days after sampling and 100% within 14 days. The number of patients who are sputum smear and culture-negative after 2 months of treatment will be determined in the prospective TDM group and will be compared with the control group without TDM to determine the impact of TDM.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical clearance was obtained by the ethical review committees of the 10 participating hospitals according to local procedures or is pending (online supplementary file 1). Patients will be included after obtaining written informed consent. We aim to publish the study results in a peer-reviewed journal.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov Registry (NCT03409315).
Preoperative opioid use and complications following total joint replacement: a protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Shadbolt Cade , Gould Daniel , Camacho Ximena , Knight Josh , Rele Siddharth , Thuraisingam Sharmala , Zhang Yuting , Dowsey Michelle M , Choong Peter FM
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Mounting evidence now indicates that preoperative opioid use is associated with an array of complications following total joint replacement (TJR). However, evidence of these risks remains fragmented. A comprehensive and well-integrated understanding of this body of evidence is necessary to appropriately inform treatment decisions, the allocation of limited healthcare resources, and the direction of future clinical research. The proposed systematic review and meta-analysis aims to identify and synthesise the available evidence of an association between opioid use prior to TJR and postoperative complications, categorised by complication type.

Methods and analysis

We will search MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Web of Science from inception to April 2020. Observational and experimental studies that compare preoperative opioid users who have undergone elective TJR to opioid naïve TJR patients will be included. The primary outcomes will be postoperative complications, which will be categorised as either mortality, morbidity, or joint-related complications. The secondary outcomes will be persistent postoperative opioid use, readmission, and length of stay. Individual study quality will be assessed using the relevant NIH–NHLBI study quality assessment tools. Findings will be reported in narrative and tabular form, and, where possible, odds ratios (dichotomous outcomes) or standardised mean differences (continuous outcomes) will be reported with 95% confidence intervals. Where appropriate, random effect meta-analyses will be conducted for each outcome, and heterogeneity will be quantified using the I2 statistic and Cochran’s Q test. This study will be reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) and Meta-analyses Of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) guidelines.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval will not be required as no primary or private data are being collected. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publication and presentation at academic conferences.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020153047.
Sacroiliac joint injections with the guidance of three-dimensional cone beam computed tomography (3D-CBCT) and fluoroscopy fusion
Authors: Oren Nisa Cem , Ali Saad , Mok James , Lu Zheng Feng , Lee Seon-Kyu
Published: June 2020

Background

We describe our diagnostic sacroiliac joint (SIJ) injection technique under the guidance of three-dimensional cone beam computed tomography (3D-CBCT) fused with real-time fluoroscopy.

Methods

A retrospective review of 17 patients (mean age 55.4 (range 40–74) years) who received a total of 23 diagnostic SIJ injections between March 2016 and November 2017 were performed. Pre- and post-procedure pain scores were reviewed from the medical records and then these findings were correlated with which patients were and were not diagnosed with SIJ pain by clinical management. The final diagnosis of SIJ-related pain was made in cases with at least 50% symptomatic improvement following SIJ-specific pain treatments.

Results

Some 87% (n=20/23) of injections achieved more than 50% pain relief after the diagnostic SIJ injection. The final diagnosis of the target SIJ-related pain after follow-up and management was found in 90% (n=18/20) of cases. There were two cases with positive tests diagnosed as non-SIJ pain including one with the diagnosis of femuroacetabular impingement and one with pain related to loosening of knee hardware. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predicative value of diagnostic SIJ injections were 100%, 60%, 89%, and 100%, respectively, with a 40% false-positive rate. There were no procedure-related complications.

Conclusion

3D-CBCT fused with real-time fluoroscopy for SIJ injection is accurate and safe.
Catheter fragment embolism in a dog
Authors: Porato Mathilde , Marolf Vincent , Etienne Anne‐Laure
Published: June 2020

Catheter fragment embolism is a potential complication of peripheral venous catheterisation. A three‐year‐old male dachshund was treated for a tibial fracture. The anaesthesia, orthopaedic procedure and hospitalisation recovery were uneventful. At the time of venous catheter removal, its breakage was noticed. A catheter tip embolisation was suspected and confirmed in the cephalic vein with radiography and ultrasound. A tourniquet was immediately applied proximally to the elbow. It prevented the catheter tip from further migration and central embolisation. A longitudinal venotomy of the cephalic vein allowed the removal of the fragment. Stitches were removed 10 days later and clinical examination was normal.
Pan-European sustainable forest management indicators for assessing Climate-Smart Forestry in Europe
Authors: Santopuoli G. , Temperli C. , Alberdi I. , Barbeito I. , Bosela M. , Bottero A. , Klopčič M. , Lesinski J. , Panzacchi P. , Tognetti R.
Published: June 2020

The increasing demand for innovative forest management strategies to adapt to and mitigate climate change and benefit forest production, the so-called Climate-Smart Forestry, calls for a tool to monitor and evaluate their implementation and their effects on forest development over time. The pan-European set of criteria and indicators for sustainable forest management is considered one of the most important tools for assessing many aspects of forest management and sustainability. This study offers an analytical approach to selecting a subset of indicators to support the implementation of Climate-Smart Forestry. Based on a literature review and the analytical hierarchical approach, 10 indicators were selected to assess, in particular, mitigation and adaptation. These indicators were used to assess the state of the Climate-Smart Forestry trend in Europe from 1990 to 2015 using data from the reports on the State of Europe’s Forests. Forest damage, tree species composition, and carbon stock were the most important indicators. Though the trend was overall positive with regard to adaptation and mitigation, its evaluation was partly hindered by the lack of data. We advocate for increased efforts to harmonize international reporting and for further integrating the goals of Climate-Smart Forestry into national- and European-level forest policy making.
Continuum extrapolation of Ward identities in $${{\mathcal {N}}=1}$$ supersymmetric SU(3) Yang–Mills theory
Authors: Ali Sajid , Bergner Georg , Gerber Henning , Montvay Istvan , Münster Gernot , Piemonte Stefano , Scior Philipp
Published: June 2020

In $${\mathcal {N}}=1$$N=1 supersymmetric Yang–Mills theory, regularised on a space-time lattice, in addition to the breaking by the gluino mass term, supersymmetry is broken explicitly by the lattice regulator. In addition to the parameter tuning in the theory, the supersymmetric Ward identities can be used as a tool to investigate lattice artefacts as well as to check whether supersymmetry can be recovered in the chiral and continuum limits. In this paper we present the numerical results of an analysis of the supersymmetric Ward identities for our available gauge ensembles at different values of the inverse gauge coupling $$\beta $$β and of the hopping parameter $$\kappa $$κ. The results clearly indicate that the lattice artefacts vanish in the continuum limit, confirming the restoration of supersymmetry.
MECHANICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF SPINAL DURA USING A PD-CONTROLLED BIAXIAL TENSILE TESTER
Authors: TAMURA ATSUTAKA , YANO WATARU , YOSHIMURA DAICHI , NISHIKAWA SOICHIRO
Published: June 2020

In this study, we developed an equi-load biaxial tensile tester and applied it to a series of mechanical tests using specimens obtained from the porcine spinal dura mater. The dural sample exhibited a nonlinear and anisotropic behavior as it was more deformable in the longitudinal direction rather than in the circumferential direction at lower strains; i.e., mechanical response of the longitudinal direction was significantly compliant in the Toe region compared to that of the circumferential direction under 1:1 biaxial stretching. However, we have not observed a significant difference with respect to the resultant strain and Young’s modulus between the longitudinal and circumferential directions at higher strains or in the Linear region. Our results also indicated that the upper thoracic region (T1) was relatively compliant compared to the lumbar region (L), where the failure load was almost equal between them because the dural thickness of T1 was five-fold greater than that of L; i.e., spinal dura mater became stiffer and stronger at further distances from the brain. This shows structural effectiveness and may be preferable to mechanically protect the vulnerable spinal cord from externally applied impact loads.
SEARCH STRATEGIES FOR ORIENTAL BEAUTY: THREE CASES OF LG HOUSEHOLD AND HEALTHCARE
Authors: KIM JONG-SEOK
Published: June 2020

This study examines the construction of each search strategy that combines search space, depth and network into innovation. It approaches a search as a problem-discovery process, which occurs during all phases of a problem-solving process. It selects three cases of LG Household and Healthcare’s product and process innovation, which typically occur in the cosmetics industry, where many cosmetic firms have conducted problem discoveries of oriental knowledge for product and process innovation. Knowledge of oriental medicine and fermentation are called, as oriental knowledge is traditionally rooted in Asian culture and practices. Through a qualitative multiple-case study, this study identifies the different combinations of the three components in each search strategy — in terms of core competences. It notices that searches in each innovation are conducted during all phases of each problem-solving process rather than being confined to the initial stage of problem-solving activities. Through discussions of each component, this study reveals that despite the importance of ambidexterity in a search, the value system and absorptive capacity can take an important role in an effective search by properly recognising and evaluating the value of knowledge and turning it into a problem. Secondly, the search depth influences the innovation proceedings and links different pieces of knowledge. Lastly, a search network can facilitate problem discoveries, reduce the risk and uncertainty of each problem formulation and lead to competence building, even though it can be subject to partner availability and strategic compatibility issues.
WEATHER AT DIFFERENT GROWTH STAGES, MULTIPLE PRACTICES AND RISK EXPOSURES: PANEL DATA EVIDENCE FROM ETHIOPIA
Authors: TEKLEWOLD HAILEMARIAM , MEKONNEN ALEMU
Published: June 2020

This study investigates the effects of combinations of climate smart agricultural practices on risk exposure and cost of risk. We do this by examining the different risk components — mean, variance, skewness, and kurtosis — in a multinomial treatment effects framework by controlling weather variables for key stages of crop growth. We found that adoption of combinations of practices is widely viewed as a risk-reducing insurance strategy that can increase farmers’ resilience to production risk. The hypothesis of equality of weather parameters across crop development stages is also rejected. The heterogeneous effects of weather across crop growth stages have important implications for climate change adaptation to maximize quasi-option value. For a country that has the vision to build a climate-resilient economy, this knowledge is valuable to identify a combination of climate smart practices that minimizes production risk under variable weather conditions.
Cholinergic-induced anion secretion in murine jejunal enteroids involves synergy between muscarinic and nicotinic pathways
Authors: Johnson Kelli , Yin Jianyi , In Julie G. , Kulkarni Subhash , Pasricha Pankaj , Tse Chung Ming , Donowitz Mark
Published: June 2020

Acetylcholine induces robust electrogenic anion secretion in mammalian intestine and it has long been hypothesized that it mediates the epithelial response through the M3 and, to a lesser extent, the M1 muscarinic receptors in the mouse. However, nicotinic receptors have recently been identified in intestinal enterocytes by quantitative real-time (qRT)-PCR/RNAseq, although any direct influence on intestinal transport has not been identified. We tested the hypothesis that cholinergic-induced anion secretion in the intestine is a result of both muscarinic and nicotinic pathways that are intrinsic to the intestinal epithelia. We developed a method to generate mouse jejunal enteroid monolayers which were used to measure active electrogenic anion secretion by the Ussing chamber/voltage-clamp technique. Here, we show that the cholinergic agonist carbachol (CCh) and the muscarinic agonist bethanechol (BCh) stimulate short-lived, concentration-dependent anion secretion in the epithelial cell-only enteroid monolayers. The muscarinic antagonist atropine completely inhibited CCh- and BCh-induced secretion, while the nicotinic antagonist hexamethonium reduced the CCh response by ~45%. While nicotine alone did not alter anion secretion, it increased the BCh-induced increase in short-circuit current in a concentration-dependent manner; this synergy was prevented by pretreatment with hexamethonium. In addition to being sensitive to hexamethonium, monolayers express both classes of cholinergic receptor by qRT-PCR, including 13 of 16 nicotinic receptor subunits. Our findings indicate that an interaction between muscarinic and nicotinic agonists synergistically stimulates anion secretion in mouse jejunal epithelial cells and identify a role for epithelial nicotinic receptors in anion secretion.
Resistin family proteins in pulmonary diseases
Authors: Lin Qing , Johns Roger A.
Published: June 2020

The family of resistin-like molecules (RELMs) consists of four members in rodents (RELMα/FIZZ1/HIMF, RELMβ/FIZZ2, Resistin/FIZZ3, and RELMγ/FIZZ4) and two members in humans (Resistin and RELMβ), all of which exhibit inflammation-regulating, chemokine, and growth factor properties. The importance of these cytokines in many aspects of physiology and pathophysiology, especially in cardiothoracic diseases, is rapidly evolving in the literature. In this review article, we attempt to summarize the contribution of RELM signaling to the initiation and progression of lung diseases, such as pulmonary hypertension, asthma/allergic airway inflammation, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, fibrosis, cancers, infection, and other acute lung injuries. The potential of RELMs to be used as biomarkers or risk predictors of these diseases also will be discussed. Better understanding of RELM signaling in the pathogenesis of pulmonary diseases may offer novel targets or approaches for the development of therapeutics to treat or prevent a variety of inflammation, tissue remodeling, and fibrosis-related disorders in respiratory, cardiovascular, and other systems.
Antibiotics Improve the Treatment Efficacy of Oxaliplatin-Based but Not Irinotecan-Based Therapy in Advanced Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Imai Hiroo , Saijo Ken , Komine Keigo , Yoshida Yuya , Sasaki Keiju , Suzuki Asako , Ouchi Kota , Takahashi Masahiro , Takahashi Shin , Shirota Hidekazu , Takahashi Masanobu , Ishioka Chikashi
Published: June 2020

Background. Oxaliplatin and irinotecan are generally used to treat advanced colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. Antibiotics improve the cytotoxicity of oxaliplatin but not irinotecan in a colon cancer cell line in vitro. This study retrospectively assessed whether antibiotics improve the treatment efficacy of oxaliplatin- but not irinotecan-based therapy in advanced CRC patients. Patients and Methods. The medical records of 220 advanced CRC patients who underwent oxaliplatin- or irinotecan-based therapy were retrospectively reviewed. The oxaliplatin and irinotecan groups were further divided into antibiotic-treated (group 1) and antibiotic-untreated (group 2) subgroups. Results. In oxaliplatin groups 1 and 2, the response rate (RR) was 58.2% and 30.2%, while the disease control rate (DCR) was 92.5% and 64.2%, respectively; the median progression-free survival (PFS) was 10.5 months (95% confidence interval (CI) = 7.5–12.2) and 7.0 months (95% CI = 17.0–26.0), respectively, and the median overall survival (OS) was 23.8 months (95% CI = 5.1–9.1) and 17.4 months (95% CI = 13.1–24.9), respectively. In irinotecan groups 1 and 2, the RR was 17.8% and 20.0%, while the DCR was 75.6% and 69.1%, respectively; the median PFS was 8.2 months (95% CI = 6.2–12.7) and 7.9 months (95% CI = 12.0–23.0), respectively, and the median OS was 16.8 months (95% CI = 5.9–10.6) and 13.1 months (95% CI = 10.4–23.7), respectively. Conclusion. To improve the treatment efficacy of oxaliplatin-based therapy in advanced CRC patients, adding antibiotics is a potential therapeutic option.
The Research on Characteristics of Li-NiMnCo Lithium-Ion Batteries in Electric Vehicles
Authors: Chen Sujuan , Zhao Zhendong , Gu Xinyan
Published: June 2020

The energy density of canode materials for lithium-ion batteries has a major impact on the driving range of electric vehicles. In order to study the charge-discharge characteristics and application feasibility of Li-NiMnCo lithium-ion batteries for vehicles, a series of charge and discharge experiments were carried out with different rates of Li-NiMnCo lithium-ion batteries (the ratio of nickel, cobalt, and manganese was 5 : 2 : 3) in constant-current-constant-voltage mode. Firstly, a set of charge-discharge experiments were performed on different types of single-cell lithium-ion batteries. The results show that, under temperature conditions, the charge and discharge voltage-capacity curves of the four different types of Li-NiMnCo lithium batteries mentioned in the paper are not much different, and the charge-discharge characteristic curves are similar, indicating that different types of batteries with the same material composition have similar charge and discharge characteristics. Subsequently, a series of charge and discharge tests with different rates were conducted on such ternary lithium batteries. The characteristic curves with different charge-discharge rates indicate that this new type of ternary lithium battery has high current charge and discharge capability and is suitable for use in new energy electric vehicles. In addition, by analyzing the voltage-SOC curve under different magnification conditions, it is known that there is an approximate linear relationship between the battery voltage value and the SOC within a certain SOC range. The SOC value can be evaluated by the battery voltage, which should be controlled within a reasonable range to avoid overcharge or overdischarge of battery, thereby, causing permanent damage to the battery.
Selection of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles by Using Multicriteria Decision-Making for Defence
Authors: Hamurcu Mustafa , Eren Tamer
Published: June 2020

The unmanned systems have been seeing a significant boom in the last ten years in different areas together with technological developments. One of the unmanned systems is unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). UAVs are used for reconnaissance and observation in the military areas and play critical role in attack and destroy missions. These vehicles have been winning more features together with developing technology in todays world. In addition, they have been varying with different features. A systematic and efficient approach for the selection of the UAV is necessary to choose a best alternative for the critical tasks under consideration. The multicriteria decision-making (MCDM) approaches that are analytic processes are well suited to deal intricacy in selection of alternative vehicles. This study also proposes an integrated methodology based on the analytic hierarch process (AHP) and technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) to evaluate UAV alternatives for selection process. Firstly, AHP, a MCDM method, is used to determine the weights of each critical factor. Subsequently, it is utilized with the TOPSIS approach to rank the vehicle alternatives in the decision problem. Result of the study shows that UAV-1 was selected as the most suitable vehicle. In results, it is seen that the weights of the evaluation criteria found by using AHP affect the decision-making process. Finally, the validation and sensitivity analysis of the solution are made and discussed.
Use of Environmental DNA to Determine Fantail Darter (Etheostoma flabellare) Density in a Laboratory Setting: Effects of Biomass and Filtration Method
Authors: Guivas Ramon A. , Brammell Ben F.
Published: June 2020

Estimating fish abundance/biomass holds great importance for freshwater ecology and fisheries management, but current techniques can be expensive, time-consuming, and potentially harmful to target organisms. Environmental DNA (eDNA) has proven an effective and efficient technique for presence/absence detection of freshwater vertebrates. Additionally, recent studies report correlations between target organism density/biomass and eDNA levels, although widespread application of this technique is limited by the number of studies examining this relationship in various species and settings. Additionally, filter clogging is a commonly encountered issue in eDNA studies in environments with significant sediment and/or phytoplankton algae. Frequently, a sample must be split into multiple aliquots and filtered separately in order to process the entire sample. The present study examines both the relationship between biomass and eDNA and the effects of single versus multiple filter sampling on eDNA concentrations of fantail darters (Etheostoma flabellare) in a laboratory setting. Tank tests were performed in quadruplicate at four environmentally relevant fantail biomass levels. eDNA samples were collected and processed in parallel (one as a whole through a single filter and one in parts through multiple filters). Species-specific primers and a probe were developed for E. flabellare from cytochrome b sequences obtained from locally collected specimens, and real-time quantitative PCR was used to analyze eDNA levels at each biomass. Significant correlations were observed with increasing biomass for both methods, although this relationship was stronger for samples processed by the multiple filter method. These data should be useful in eDNA studies in which turbidity necessitates the use of multiple filters per sample as well as in the use of eDNA to estimate darter populations.
Constitutive Model of Lateral Unloading Creep of Soft Soil under Excess Pore Water Pressure
Authors: Huang Wei , Wen Kejun , Deng Xiaojia , Li Junjie , Jiang Zhijian , Li Yang , Li Lin , Amini Farshad
Published: June 2020

Presented in this paper is a study on the lateral unloading creep tests under different excess pore water pressures. The marine sedimentary soft soil in Shenzhen, China, was selected in this study. The results show that the excess pore water pressure plays a significant role in enhancing the unloading creep of soft soil. Higher excess pore water pressure brings more obvious creep deformation of soft soil and lower ultimate failure load. Meanwhile, the viscoelastic and the viscoplastic modulus of soft soil were found to exponentially decline with creep time. A modified merchant model and a combined model of the modified merchant model and plastic elements are used to simulate the viscoelastic and the viscoplastic deformation, respectively. Therefore, a lateral unloading creep model of soft soil is developed based on the modified merchant model. The accuracy and applicability of this model were verified through identifying the parameters in the model. Research results are of particular significance to the numerical simulation of underground space excavation in soft soil areas which considers the effects of excess pore water pressure.
Predictors of Alcohol Use in Safety-Net Primary Care: Classism, Religiosity, and Race
Authors: Trujillo Michael A. , Smith Erin R. , Griffin Sarah , Williams Allison B. , Perrin Paul B. , Rybarczyk Bruce
Published: June 2020

Class-based discrimination may impact problematic drinking in low-income populations, which may be buffered by personal religiosity. However, little is known how race may impact this association. The purpose of this study was to examine racial differences in the effect of class-based discrimination on problematic drinking as moderated by comfort with God and determine if there were conditional direct effects of class-based discrimination on problematic drinking by race. In this cross-sectional study, participants (N = 189) were patients of an urban, safety-net primary care clinic who completed questionnaires assessing experiences of class-based discrimination, attitudes toward God, and alcohol use. Data were collected from 2015 to 2016 and analyzed using the Hayes PROCESS macro. There was a significant main effect for class-based discrimination predicting problematic drinking. Two-way interaction analyses identified a significant comfort with God by race interaction with greater comfort with God associated with less problematic drinking among white but not black respondents. Conditional direct effects showed that experiences of class-based discrimination were associated with problematic drinking at low and moderate but not high levels of comfort with God in black participants, whereas none were observed for white participants. This study provides insight on how personal religiosity, class-based discrimination, and race may intertwine to shape problematic alcohol use in primarily low-income, urban patients. Clinicians’ awareness of risk and protective factors, as well as how race tempers the effects of such factors, is vital in providing better care for this population.
The Effectiveness of Acupuncture in Management of Functional Constipation: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Wang Lu , Xu Mingmin , Zheng Qianhua , Zhang Wei , Li Ying
Published: June 2020

Objective. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture for functional constipation (FC). Methods. A rigorous literature search was performed in English (PubMed, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, and EMBASE) and Chinese (China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Chinese Biological Medical (CBM), Wanfang database, and China Science and Technology Journal (VIP)) electronic databases from their inception to October 2019. Included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) compared acupuncture therapy with sham acupuncture or pharmacological therapies. The outcome measures were evaluated, including the primary outcome of complete spontaneous bowel movement (CSBM) and secondary outcomes of Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS), constipation symptoms scores (CSS), responder rate, the Patient Assessment of Constipation Quality of Life (PAC‐QOL) questionnaire, and safety evaluation. Meta‐analysis was performed by using RevMan5.3. Results. The merged data of 28 RCTs with 3525 participants indicated that acupuncture may be efficient for FC by increasing CSBMs (p < 0.00001; MD = 0.84 [95% CI, 0.65 to 1.03]; I2 = 0%) and improving constipation symptoms (p = 0.03; SMD = −0.4 [95% CI, −0.78 to −0.03]; I2 = 74%), stool formation (p < 0.00001; MD = 0.24 [95% CI, 0.15 to 0.34]; I2 = 0%), quality of life (p < 0.00001; N = 1, MD = −0.33 [95% CI, −0.45 to −0.21]), and responder rates (p = 0.02; RR = 2.16; [95% CI, 1.1 to 4.24]; I2 = 69%) compared with the effects of sham treatment. No increased risk of adverse events was observed (p = 0.44; RR = 1.18; [95% CI, 0.77 to 1.81]; I2 = 0%). With regard to medication comparisons, the pooled data indicated that acupuncture was more effective in increasing CSBMs (p = 0.004; MD = 0.53 [95% CI, 0.17 to 0.88]; I2 = 88%) and improving patients’ quality of life (p < 0.00001; SMD = −0.73 [95% CI, −1.02 to −0.44]; I2 = 64%), with high heterogeneity. However, there were no significant differences in responder rate (p = 0.12; RR = 1.31; [95% CI, 0.94 to 1.82]; I2 = 53%), BSFS (p = 0.5; MD = 0.17 [95% CI, −0.33 to 0.68]; I2 = 93%), or CSS (p = 0.05; SMD = −0.62 [95% CI, −1.23 to −0.01]; I2 = 89%). Regarding safety evaluation, acupuncture was safer than medications (p < 0.0001; RR = 0.3; [95% CI, 0.18 to 0.52]; I2 = 30%). Conclusions. Current evidence suggests that acupuncture is an efficient and safe treatment for FC. Acupuncture increased stool frequency, improved stool formation, alleviated constipation symptoms, and improved quality of life. However, the evidence quality was relatively low and the relationship between acupuncture and drugs is not clear. More high‐quality trials are recommended in the future. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42019143347.
Galactose-Induced Skin Aging: The Role of Oxidative Stress
Authors: Umbayev Bauyrzhan , Askarova Sholpan , Almabayeva Aigul , Saliev Timur , Masoud Abdul-Razak , Bulanin Denis
Published: June 2020

Skin aging has been associated with a higher dietary intake of carbohydrates, particularly glucose and galactose. In fact, the carbohydrates are capable of damaging the skin’s vital components through nonenzymatic glycation, the covalent attachment of sugar to a protein, and subsequent production of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). This review is focused on the role of D-galactose in the development of skin aging and its relation to oxidative stress. The interest in this problem was dictated by recent findings that used in vitro and in vivo models. The review highlights the recent advances in the underlying molecular mechanisms of D-galactose-mediated cell senescence and cytotoxicity. We have also proposed the possible impact of galactosemia on skin aging and its clinical relevance. The understanding of molecular mechanisms of skin aging mediated by D-galactose can help dermatologists optimize methods for prevention and treatment of skin senescence and aging-related skin diseases.
HMGB1 Aggravates Pressure Overload-Induced Left Ventricular Dysfunction by Promoting Myocardial Fibrosis
Authors: Zhang Lei , Yu Ying , Yu Peng , Wu Jian , Sun Aijun , Zou Yunzeng , Su Yangang , Jiang Hong , Ge Junbo
Published: June 2020

Aim. Fibrosis had important effects on pressure overload-induced left ventricular (LV) dysfunction. High-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), which was closely associated with fibrosis, was involved in the pressure overload-induced cardiac injury. This study determines the role of HMGB1 in LV dysfunction under pressure overload. Methods. Transverse aortic constriction (TAC) operation was performed on male C57BL/6J mice to build the model of pressure overload, while HMGB1 or PBS was injected into the LV wall. Cardiac function, collagen volume, and relevant genes were detected. Results. Echocardiography demonstrated that the levels of LV ejection fraction (LVEF) were markedly decreased on day 28 after TAC, which was consistent with raised collagen in the myocardium. Moreover, we found that the exposure of mice to TAC + HMGB1 is associated with higher mortality, BNP, and collagen volume in the myocardium and lower LVEF. In addition, real-time PCR showed that the expression of collagen type I, TGF-β, and MMP2 markedly increased in the myocardium after TAC, while HMGB1 overexpression further raised the TGF-β expression but not collagen type I and MMP2 expressions. Conclusion. This study indicated that exogenous HMGB1 overexpression in the myocardium aggravated the pressure overload-induced LV dysfunction by promoting cardiac fibrosis, which may be mediated by increasing the TGF-β expression.