bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Wound Healing Effect ofCallicarpa nudiflorain Scalded Rats
Authors: Zhang Xu-guang , Li Xiu-min , Zhou Xin-xin , Wang Yong , Lai Wei-yong , Liu Ying , Luo Yu-chao , Zhang Jun-qing
Published: May 2019

Callicarpa nudiflorahas been widely used in Li nationality medicine and treated burns and scalds in China. Our objective was to preliminarily elucidate healing effect and action mechanism ofCallicarpa nudiflorawater extract (CNE) on the scald wounds using an experimental rat mode. The second-degree scald wounds were induced by hot water on dorsal surface of Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats, and then they were randomly divided into 5 groups as follows: control (CON), Vaseline, Silver sulfadiazine (SSD), and Vaseline supplemented with 10% and 20% CNE groups. These ointments were employed locally once daily for 21 days. The macroscopic analysis showed CNE significantly accelerated the wound healing process and lowered the wound areas on days 15, 18, and 21 especially in 20% CNE group compared to CON group. Histopathological evaluation showed the mildly hypertrophic epidermis and the intact dermis in the 20% CNE-treated group were obviously distinguished from CON group on day 21. The CNE-treated groups had no obvious effect for TNF-αand IL-10 expressions on the second day and 14th day, while TGF-β1 expression level was decreased on the 21th day and VEGF level was increased on the 7th day in the 20% CNE group. Furthermore, the expression level of Samd3 was strongly inhibited in 20% CNE group. These findings suggested that the CNE can enhance the wound healing and skin repair in deep second-degree scald rats and thus support its traditional use.
A Case of Complex Partial Seizures Presenting as Acute and Transient Psychotic Disorder
Authors: Sultan Sadia , Omar Fallata Ebtihaj
Published: May 2019

Introduction. Complex partial seizures are focal (CPS) (i.e., start in one area of the brain) and associated with impairment in consciousness. Most of them arise in the temporal region and are characterized by aura, impaired consciousness, and automatisms. CPS that arise in temporal region are most often misdiagnosed as primary psychiatric illness. Case Report. A 25-year-old male presented with fluctuations in consciousness, aggressive behaviour, hallucination, and delusions of grandeur lasting a few hours. He was diagnosed with acute and transient psychotic disorder according to ICD10 criteria and was treated with intramuscular haloperidol 10mg BID followed by oral olanzapine 10mg. Computed tomography of brain and electroencephalogram were normal. After 15 days he presented again to the outpatient department with complaints of aggressive behaviour and sensory misinterpretations. Video electroencephalogram was recommended, which was not done due to financial constraints. The diagnosis was reconsidered and he was started on oral carbamazepine due to high clinical suspicion, of complex partial seizures, in spite of lack of EEG evidence. He responded well to antiepileptic and symptom remission has maintained well. Conclusion. Patients presenting with psychosis need careful diagnostic evaluation for other possibilities.
Investigation of Blood Characteristics in Nonsyndromic Retinitis Pigmentosa: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Yang Yijing , Deng Ying , Tian Ye , Yao Zhen , Zhou Yasha , Wang Ying , Peng Qinghua , Peng Jun
Published: May 2019

Purpose. To investigate the characteristics of blood in nonsyndromic retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and reveal the pathogenesis of blood cells involved in blood stasis in RP.Design. This is a retrospective observational study.Methods. We collected vein blood from 101 cases of patients with nonsyndromic RP and 120 cases of normal individuals according to a single-blind study and used routine clinical examination to detect the indicators of blood. All the subjects were mainly from the central south of China. Data were analyzed statistically between the RP group and normal control.Results. The indicator of platelet distribution width (PDW) in patients with RP was higher than that in the normal group; the indicators of red blood cell (RBCs), hemoglobin (HGB), hematocrit (HCT), basophils (BASs), platelets (PLTs), and plateletcrit (PCT) in the RP group were lower than those in the normal control. The differences were statistically very significant between the RP group and normal group (p<0.01). There were no statistical differences in the other indicators between the RP and normal group.Conclusions. The changes in RBCs and PLTs in patients with RP implied that RP induces RBC aggregation and platelet activation, leading to blood stasis which in turn initiates more apoptosis.
Acupuncture Treatment for Symptom Management in Atopic Dermatitis: A Study Protocol for a Randomized, Participant- and Assessor-Blind, Sham-Controlled Trial
Authors: Park Jung Gun , Park Hi-Joon , Chae Younbyoung , Kim Yu-Kang , Lee Hyangsook , Kim Kyuseok
Published: May 2019

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with persistent itching, which impairs quality of life (QoL). Although various conventional treatments for AD exist, patients with AD often seek complementary and alternative therapies when conventional therapy has failed to relieve their AD symptoms or has had adverse effects. Acupuncture treatment may relieve AD symptoms, but controlled trials are needed to confirm this. Following our pilot study, which found that acupuncture treatment improves AD symptoms in mild-to-moderate AD patients, we will assess the effect of acupuncture treatment for symptom relief of AD using a trial with a complemented protocol. This is a two-arm, randomized, participant- and assessor-blinded, sham-controlled trial. A total of 36 mild-to-moderate AD patients will be randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive eight sessions twice weekly of either verum acupuncture (VA) or nonpenetrating sham acupuncture (SA) over four weeks. The primary outcome measured will be the change in the total Scoring Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) score. Secondary outcomes will be (1) changes in AD symptoms, QoL, dyspepsia symptoms, and electroencephalography (EEG) between baseline and week 4 and (2) changes in AD symptoms and QoL at baseline and at weeks 2, 4, and 8. This study will assess acupuncture treatment for the alleviation of AD symptoms in patients with mild-to-moderate AD. This clinical trial gas been registered in Korean Clinical Trial Registry (registration number: KCT0002796; date of registration: April 13, 2018).
Cend1, a Story with Many Tales: From Regulation of Cell Cycle Progression/Exit of Neural Stem Cells to Brain Structure and Function
Authors: Gaitanou Maria , Segklia Katerina , Matsas Rebecca
Published: May 2019

Neural stem/precursor cells (NPCs) generate the large variety of neuronal phenotypes comprising the adult brain. The high diversity and complexity of this organ have its origin in embryonic life, during which NPCs undergo symmetric and asymmetric divisions and then exit the cell cycle and differentiate to acquire neuronal identities. During these processes, coordinated regulation of cell cycle progression/exit and differentiation is essential for generation of the appropriate number of neurons and formation of the correct structural and functional neuronal circuits in the adult brain. Cend1 is a neuronal lineage-specific modulator involved in synchronization of cell cycle exit and differentiation of neuronal precursors. It is expressed all along the neuronal lineage, from neural stem/progenitor cells to mature neurons, and is associated with the dynamics of neuron-generating divisions. Functional studies showed that Cend1 has a critical role during neurogenesis in promoting cell cycle exit and neuronal differentiation. Mechanistically, Cend1 acts via the p53-dependent/Cyclin D1/pRb signaling pathway as well as via a p53-independent route involving a tripartite interaction with RanBPM and Dyrk1B. Upon Cend1 function, Notch1 signaling is suppressed and proneural genes such as Mash1 and Neurogenins 1/2 are induced. Due to its neurogenic activity, Cend1 is a promising candidate therapeutic gene for brain repair, while theCend1minimal promoter is a valuable tool for neuron-specific gene delivery in the CNS. Mice withCend1genetic ablation display increased NPC proliferation, decreased migration, and higher levels of apoptosis during development. As a result, they show in the adult brain deficits in a range of motor and nonmotor behaviors arising from irregularities in cerebellar cortex lamination and impaired Purkinje cell differentiation as well as a paucity in GABAergic interneurons of the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, and amygdala. Taken together, these studies highlight the necessity for Cend1 expression in the formation of a structurally and functionally normal brain.
Synergistic Design of the Bipedal Lower‐Limb through Multiobjective Differential Evolution Algorithm
Authors: Pantoja-García Jesús S. , Villarreal-Cervantes Miguel G. , García-Mendoza Consuelo V. , Silva-García Víctor M.
Published: May 2019

The complexity in the design of bipedal robots has motivated the use of simple mechanisms to accomplish the desired locomotion task with a minimum control effort. Nevertheless, a diverse set of conflictive design criteria must be met to develop the bipedal gait. In this paper, the synergy in the eight‐bar mechanism design criteria to satisfy the bipedal lower‐limb behavior is promoted by proposing a Pareto‐based Nonlinear Mixed Discrete‐Continuous Constrained Multiobjective Optimization Problem and by improving the search in the optimizer through the inclusion of the Multiselection Strategy into the multiobjective differential evolution algorithm, where the conflictive design objectives are the continuous path generation based on an approximation error to track twenty precision points of the bipedal gait and also the force transmission exerted when the foot reaches the ground. The manufacture of a prototype with a specific design trade‐off experimentally validates the obtained synergistic design with the proposed design approach. In addition, the empirical analysis in simulation through a statistical validation indicates that the Multiselection Strategy explores and exploits the design solutions promoting the diversity, convergence, and capacity features of the obtained Pareto front with respect to other four multiobjective optimizers and consequently improves the reconfigurability in the design such that more alternatives result to the designer decision making.
Prognostic Value of MicroRNA-497 in Various Cancers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Liu Zhiqiang , Wu Shanshan , Wang Lei , Kang Shuling , Zhao Bixing , He Fei , Liu Xiaolong , Zeng Yongyi , Liu Jingfeng
Published: May 2019

Background. Some studies showed that microRNA-497 (miR-497) might act as a prognostic biomarker of cancer. However, the conclusion was not consistent. The aim of this study was to investigate the prognostic role of miR-497 in various carcinomas. Methods. We systematically searched the databases of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wanfang Data to identify relevant studies. Two independent reviewers performed the data extraction and assessed the study quality. Hazard ratios (HRs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival/relapse-free survival (DFS/RFS) were used to assess the associations between miR-497 expression and cancer prognosis. Results. A total of 15 studies involving 1760 participants fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The lower level of miR-497 expression was significantly associated with shorter overall survival (HR=2.19, 95% CI: 1.84-2.60). No significant association was found between miR-497 expression and DFS/RFS in various carcinomas (HR=1.17, 95% CI: 0.53-2.57). Subgroup analyses by ethnicity and cancer type showed the consistent results. Conclusion. Our studies suggested that miR-497 might be a prognostic biomarker in cancers. However, further multicenter prospective clinical researches are needed to confirm the association between miR-497 expression and cancer prognosis.
Optimization of SVM Parameters with Hybrid CS-PSO Algorithms for Parkinson’s Disease in LabVIEW Environment
Authors: Kaya Duygu
Published: May 2019

Optimization is the process of achieving the best solution for a problem. LabVIEW based on an SVM model is proposed in this paper to get the best SVM parameters using the hybrid CS and PSO method. PCA is used as a preprocessor of SVM for reducing the dimension of data and extracting features of training samples. Also, SVM parameters are optimized for Parkinson’s disease data by combining CS and PSO. The designed system is used to determine the best SVM parameters, and it is compared to PSO and CS optimization methods and found that the used CS-PSO hybrid optimization method is better. The hybrid model shows that the accuracy of the performance achieved is 97.4359%. Also, the data classification results obtained by using SVM parameters determined by optimization are measured by precision, recall, F1 score, false positive rate (FPR), false discovery rate (FDR), false negative rate (FNR), negative predictive value (NPV), and Matthews’ correlation coefficient (MCC) parameters.
Immune Exclusion Is Frequent in Small-Cell Carcinoma of the Bladder
Authors: Mandelkow Tim , Blessin Niclas C. , Lueerss Eva , Pott Laura , Simon Ronald , Li Wenchao , Wellge Björn , Debatin Nicolaus F. , Höflmayer Doris , Izbicki Jakob R. , Büscheck Franziska , Luebke Andreas M. , Wittmer Corinna , Jacobsen Frank , Lutz Florian , Burandt Eike , Steurer Stefan , Sauter Guido , Tsourlakis Maria Christina , Wilczak Waldemar , Hinsch Andrea , Minner Sarah
Published: May 2019

Small-cell cancer of the urinary bladder is a rare but highly aggressive disease. It is currently unclear whether immune checkpoint therapies that have been approved for urothelial carcinomas will also be efficient in small-cell carcinomas. In this study, we analyzed potential predictors of response including PD-L1 expression and the quantity and location of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in 12 small-cell and 69 “classical” urothelial cancers by immunohistochemistry. The analysis revealed that small-cell carcinomas were characterized by the virtual absence of PD-L1 expression and an “immune-excluded” phenotype with only a few TILs in the center of the tumor (CT). In small-cell carcinomas, the average immune cell density in the CT (CD3: 159±206, CD8: 87±169 cells/mm2) was more than 3 times lower than that in the urothelial carcinomas (CD3: 625±800, p<0.001; CD8: 362±626 cells/mm2, p=0.004) while there was no significant difference in the immune cell density at the invasive margin (IM) (small-cell carcinomas CD3: 899±733, CD8: 404±433 cells/mm2; urothelial carcinomas CD3: 1167±1206, p=0.31; CD8: 582±864 cells/mm2, p=0.27). Positive PD-L1 staining was found in 39% of urothelial cancers, but in only 8% of small-cell bladder cancer cases (p=0.04). Concordant with these data, a sharp decrease of PD-L1 positivity from >80% to 0% positive cells and of TILS in the CT from 466-1063 CD3-positive cells/mm2 to 50-109 CD3-positive cells/mm2 was observed in two cancers with clear-cut progression from “classical” urothelial to small-cell carcinoma. In conclusion, these data demonstrate that small-cell bladder cancer commonly exhibits an immune-excluded phenotype.
Exosomes from Human Gingiva-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Combined with Biodegradable Chitin Conduits Promote Rat Sciatic Nerve Regeneration
Authors: Rao Feng , Zhang Dianying , Fang Tengjiaozi , Lu Changfeng , Wang Bo , Ding Xiao , Wei Shuai , Zhang Yiran , Pi Wei , Xu Hailin , Wang Yanhua , Jiang Baoguo , Zhang Peixun
Published: May 2019

At present, repair methods for peripheral nerve injury often fail to get satisfactory result. Although various strategies have been adopted to investigate the microenvironment after peripheral nerve injury, the underlying molecular mechanisms of neurite outgrowth remain unclear. In this study, we evaluate the effects of exosomes from gingival mesenchymal stem cells (GMSCs) combined with biodegradable chitin conduits on peripheral nerve regeneration. GMSCs were isolated from human gingival tissue and characterized by surface antigen analysis and in vitro multipotent differentiation. The cell supernatant was collected to isolate the exosomes. The exosomes were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, Western blot, and size distribution analysis. The effects of exosomes on peripheral nerve regeneration in vitro were evaluated by coculture with Schwann cells and DRGs. The chitin conduit was prepared and combined with the exosomes to repair rat sciatic nerve defect. Histology, electrophysiology, and gait analysis were used to test the effects of exosomes on sciatic nerve function recovery in vivo. We have successfully cultured GMSCs and isolated exosomes. The exosomes from GMSCs could significantly promote Schwann cell proliferation and DRG axon growth. The in vivo studies showed that chitin conduit combined with exosomes from GMSCs could significantly increase the number and diameter of nerve fibers and promote myelin formation. In addition, muscle function, nerve conduction function, and motor function were also obviously recovered. In summary, this study suggests that GMSC-derived exosomes combined with biodegradable chitin conduits are a useful and novel therapeutic intervention in peripheral nerve repair.
Assessment and Management of Depression and Anxiety in Children and Adolescents with Epilepsy
Authors: Plevin David , Smith Nicholas
Published: May 2019

Anxiety and depression in children and adolescents with epilepsy are common comorbidities which place a significant burden on patients and families and complicate the clinical management of epilepsy. This paper presents a narrative review on the aetiology, phenomenology, assessment, and management of depression and anxiety among paediatric patients with epilepsy. The recognition of affective comorbidity in paediatric epilepsy is limited at present, and the contributory role of antiepileptic medication towards such comorbidity must be considered by clinicians.
Platelet Serotonin Levels Are Associated with Plasma Soluble Leptin Receptor Concentrations in Normoglycemic Women
Authors: Cataldo Luis Rodrigo , Suazo José , Olmos Pablo , Bravo Carolina , Galgani José E. , Fex Malin , Martínez J. Alfredo , Santos José L.
Published: May 2019

Most peripheral serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine (5HT)) is synthetized in the gut with platelets being its main circulating reservoir. 5HT is acting as a hormone in key organs to regulate glucose and lipid metabolism. However, the relation between platelet 5HT levels and traits related to glucose homeostasis and lipid metabolism in humans remains poorly explored. The objectives of this study were (a) to assess the association between platelet 5HT levels and plasma concentration of nonesterified fatty acids (NEFAs) and some adipokines including leptin and its soluble leptin receptor (sOb-R), (b) to assess the association between platelet 5HT levels and anthropometric traits and indexes of insulin secretion/sensitivity derived from oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and (c) to evaluate changes in platelet 5HT levels in response to OGTT. In a cross-sectional study, 59 normoglycemic women underwent a standard 2-hour OGTT. Plasma leptin, sOb-R, total and high molecular weight adiponectin, TNFα, and MCP1 were determined by immunoassays. Platelet 5HT levels and NEFAs were measured before and after OGTT. The free leptin index was calculated from leptin and sOb-R measurements. Insulin sensitivity indexes derived from OGTT (HOMA-S and Matsuda ISICOMP) and plasma NEFAs (Adipose-IR, Revised QUICKI) were also calculated. Our data show that among metabolic traits, platelet 5HT levels were associated with plasma sOb-R (r=0.39,p=0.003, correctedp=0.018). Platelet 5HT levels were reduced in response to OGTT (779±237vs.731±217 ng/109platelets,p=0.005). In conclusion, platelet 5HT levels are positively associated with plasma sOb-R concentrations and reduced in response to glucose intake possibly indicating a role of peripheral 5HT in leptin-mediated appetite regulation.
A Strategy of Cluster-Based Distributed Location Service
Authors: Wang Peng , Yang Jing , Zhang Jianpei
Published: May 2019

A new strategy of cluster-based distributed location service was proposed to solve communication bottlenecks and vulnerability in centralized system structure location service. In the proposed strategy, the density-first clustering method was used to establish location information profiles for users, and neighboring user groups satisfied the (k, d) anonymous model. When there is a location service request, a number of neighbor user groups that meet the density metric condition were determined firstly, then the location profile similarity of a service requester and the neighbor user was calculated, and finally the collaborative filtering recommendation method was used to recommend the corresponding location service. The experimental results on the location dataset show that the proposed strategy can provide users with a sufficient number of location services and the (k, d) privacy security definition can guarantee the privacy of user location information.
Multiple Positive Solutions for Nonlinear Fractional Differential Equations with Integral Boundary Value Conditions and a Parameter
Authors: Mao Juan , Zhao Daliang
Published: May 2019

By using the theory of fixed-point index on cone for differentiable operators, spectral radii of some related linear integral operators, and properties of Green’s function, the existence of multiple positive solutions to a nonlinear fractional differential system with integral boundary value conditions and a parameter is established. At last, some examples are also provided to illustrate the validity of our main results.
Prognostic Factors Influencing Infectious Complications after Cytoreductive Surgery and HIPEC: Results from a Tertiary Referral Center
Authors: Cardi Maurizio , Sibio Simone , Di Marzo Francesco , Lefoche Francesco , d’Agostino Claudia , Fonsi Giovanni Battista , La Torre Giuseppe , Carbonari Ludovica , Sammartino Paolo
Published: May 2019

Background. Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) showed promising results in selected patients. High morbidity restrains its wide application. The aim of this study was to report postoperative infectious complications and investigate possible correlations with the preoperative nutritional status and other prognostic factors in patients with peritoneal metastases treated with CRS and HIPEC. Methods. For the study, we reviewed the clinical records of all patients with peritoneal metastases from different primary cancers treated with CRS and HIPEC in our Institution from November 2000 to December 2017. Patients were divided according to their nutritional status (SGA) into groups A (well-nourished) and B/C (mild or severely malnourished, respectively). Possible statistical correlations between risk factors and postoperative complication rates have been investigated by univariate and multivariate analysis. Results. Two hundred patients were selected and underwent CRS and HIPEC during the study period. Postoperative complications occurred in 44% of the patients, 35.3% in SGA-A patients, and 53% in SGA-B/C patients. Cause of complications was infective in 42, noninfective in 37, and HIPEC related in 9 patients. Infectious complications occurred more frequently in SGA-B/C patients (32.6% vs. 9.8% of SGA-A patients). The most frequent sites of infection were surgical site infections (SSI, 35.7%) and central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI, 26.2%). The most frequent isolated species was Candida (22.8%). ASA score, blood loss, performance status, PCI, large bowel resection, postoperative serum albumin levels, and nutritional status correlated with higher risk for postoperative infectious complications. Conclusions. Malnourished patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy are more prone to postoperative infectious complications, and adequate perioperative nutritional support should be considered, including immune-enhancing nutrition. Sequential monitoring of common sites of infection, antifungal prevention of candidiasis, and careful patient selection should be implemented to reduce the complication rate.
Green Synthesis of Highly Luminescent Carbon Quantum Dots from Lemon Juice
Authors: Hoan Bui Thi , Tam Phuong Dinh , Pham Vuong-Hung
Published: May 2019

Highly luminescent carbon dots (C-dots) were synthesized by the one-pot simple hydrothermal method directly from lemon juice using different temperatures, time, aging of precursors, and diluted solvents to control the luminescence of C‐dots. The obtained C-dots were characterized by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometry, dynamic light scattering, ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry, and photoluminescent spectrophotometry. The results show that C‐dots had strong green light emission with quantum yield in the range of 14.86 to 24.89% as a function of hydrothermal temperatures. Furthermore, light emission that is dependent on hydrothermal time, aging of precursor, and diluted solvent was observed. These results suggest that the C‐dots have potential application in optoelectronics and bioimaging.
Prognostic Factors and Survival Time in Patients with Small Bowel Tumors: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Taghipour Zahir Shokouh , Heidarymeybodi Zahra , AleSaeidi Sogol
Published: May 2019

This study examines survival time in patients with small bowel tumors and determines its contributing factors. In this retrospective analytical study, the medical records of 106 patients with small bowel cancer (from 2006 to 2011) were investigated. The patients’ data were extracted, including age, gender, clinical presentation, location of tumor, histological type, grade of tumor, site of metastasis, and type of treatment. The Kaplan-Meier test was used to estimate the overall survival time and the Log-rank test to compare the survival curves. The Cox regression was also used to evaluate the effect of the confounding variables on survival time. This study was conducted on 106 patients with a median age of 60 years (Min: 7, Max: 87). The tumor types included adenocarcinoma (n=78, 73.6%), MALToma (n=22, 20.8%), neuroendocrine tumors (n=4, 3.8%), and sarcoma (n=2. 1.8%). Grade 3 adenocarcinomas had a significantly lower survival time (HR: 1.48, 95% CI: 0.46-2.86; P=.001). Combined therapy (chemotherapy and surgery) vs. single-therapy (only surgery) had no significant effects on the survival of the patients with MALToma (5 vs. 3 months, 95% CI: 1.89-5.26; P=.06). There were no significant differences between the survival time in adenocarcinoma and MALToma (12 vs. 20 months, 95% CI: 6.24-24.76; P=.49). Tumor grade was the only independent prognostic factor that affected survival in adenocarcinoma. The patients diagnosed with MALToma in the study also had a poor prognosis, and the type of treatment had no significant effect on their survival.
RAD51 and XRCC3 Polymorphisms Are Associated with Increased Risk of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Nowacka-Zawisza Maria , Raszkiewicz Agata , Kwasiborski Tomasz , Forma Ewa , Bryś Magdalena , Różański Waldemar , Krajewska Wanda M.
Published: May 2019

Genetic polymorphisms in DNA repair genes may affect DNA repair efficiency and may contribute to the risk of developing cancer. The aim of our study was to investigate single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in RAD51 (rs2619679, rs2928140, and rs5030789) and XRCC3 (rs1799796) involved in DNA double-strand break repair and their relationship to prostate cancer. The study group included 99 men diagnosed with prostate cancer and 205 cancer-free controls. SNP genotyping was performed using the PCR-RFLP method. A significant association was detected between RAD51 rs5030789 polymorphism and XRCC3 rs1799796 polymorphism and an increased risk of prostate cancer. Our results indicate that RAD51 and XRCC3 polymorphism may contribute to prostate cancer.
Plasma Osteoprotegerin Correlates with Stroke Severity and the Occurrence of Microembolic Signals in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Cao Yanyan , Cui Congxian , Zhao Hongqin , Pan Xudong , Li Wenjian , Wang Kun , Ma Aijun
Published: May 2019

Background. Instability of atherosclerotic plaques is associated with the occurrence of stroke. Microembolic signals (MESs) are an indicator of unstable plaque. A relationship between plasma osteoprotegerin (OPG) and ischemic stroke has already been identified. The aim of this study was to investigate whether plasma OPG levels have a relationship with MESs and to evaluate the feasibility of OPG as a biomarker of stroke severity and occurrence of MESs. Methods. Our study consisted of 127 patients with large artery atherosclerosis stroke and 56 controls. Patients were classified into subgroups based on stroke severity and the occurrence of MESs. MES-monitoring was performed for 60 min using transcranial Doppler within 72 h of stroke onset. Stroke severity at admission was assessed by the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale. Results. Plasma OPG levels were significantly associated with stroke, MESs, and stroke severity at admission (adjusted OR [95% CI]: 1.002 [1.001–1.003] p<0.001; 1.002 [1.001–1.003] p=0.001; 1.001 [1.000–1.002] p=0.028). When plasma OPG levels were used to determine the stroke severity, the area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC) was 0.734 (95% CI: 0.625-0.843) based on a cutoff value of 1998.44 pg/ml; the sensitivity and specificity of this test were 80.6% and 65.6%, respectively. Furthermore, when the levels of OPG were used to distinguish the presence of MESs, the AUC was 0.766 (95% CI: 0.672-0.860); the cutoff value was 2107.91 pg/ml. The sensitivity of this cutoff value was 68.8% and the specificity was 73.7%. Conclusions. Plasma OPG levels correlate with stroke severity and the occurrence of MESs.
Hierarchically Planning Static Gait for Quadruped Robot Walking on Rough Terrain
Authors: Li Xingdong , Gao Hewei , Li Jian , Wang Yangwei , Guo Yanling
Published: May 2019

Quadruped robot has great potential to walk on rough terrain, in which static gait is preferred. A hierarchical structure based controlling algorithm is proposed in this paper, in which trajectory of robot center is searched, and then static gaits are generated along such trajectory. Firstly, cost map is constructed by computing terrain features under robot body and cost of selecting footholds at default positions, and then the trajectory of robot center in 2D space is searched using heuristic A⁎ algorithm. Secondly, robot state is defined from foothold and robot pose, and then state series are searched recursively along the trajectory of robot center to generate static gaits, where a tree-like structure is used to store such states. Lastly, a classical model for quadruped robot is designed, and then the controlling algorithm proposed in the paper is demonstrated on such robot model for both structured terrain and complex unstructured terrain in a simulation environment.
Examination of the Magnetic Properties in the Magnetic Circuits Formed by a Printing Technique
Authors: Jakubas Adam
Published: May 2019

In mass printing of specialist coatings on cellulose substrates, their thickness is an important factor influencing the usefulness of such coatings. The paper presented the results of testing the magnetic properties of a printing paint admixture with iron powder with a grain size <10 μm. Experimental studies were carried out on samples with three magnetic coating thicknesses: 0.2, 0.25, and 0.3, respectively. The obtained induction and magnetic field values were used to determine the relationship between the thickness of magnetic paint and its magnetic permeability. The obtained maximum values of μr were 10, 11.5, and 12.5 for samples with a thickness of 0.2, 0.25, and 0.3 mm, respectively. The value of magnetic permeability increased with the increase of coating thickness. The analysis of the properties of coatings has been supplemented with the mathematical description of the relationship between material parameters and hysteresis in magnetic materials. The proposed elliptical hysteresis approximation significantly facilitates a design and prediction of the properties of finished products. The analysis of the equivalent hysteresis angle δ showed almost linear dependence on the coating thickness. The proposed indicator (angle δ) allows a quick and simple way to verify the thickness of magnetic coatings on flexible diamagnetic substrates in production conditions.
Treatment-Related Prognostic Factors in Managing Osteosarcoma around the Knee with Limb Salvage Surgery: A Lesson from a Long-Term Follow-Up Study
Authors: Hu Jianping , Zhang Chunlin , Zhu Kunpeng , Zhang Lei , Cai Tao , Zhan Taicheng , Luo Xiong
Published: May 2019

Purpose. The aim of this study was to assess the treatment-related factors associated with local recurrence and overall survival of patients with osteosarcoma treated with limb-salvage surgery. Patients and Methods. Treatment-related factors were analyzed to evaluate their effects on local recurrence-free survival (LRFS) and overall survival (OS) in 182 patients from 2004 to 2013. Results. The mean length of follow-up was 73.4 ± 34.7 months (median, 68 months; range, 12-173 months), and 63 patients died by the end of the follow-up. The 5-year and 10-year overall survival rates were 68.6 ± 6.6% and 59.4 ± 10.6%, respectively. Univariate analysis showed that treatment-related prognostic factors for overall survival were prolonged symptom intervals >=60 days, biopsy/tumor resection performed by different centers, previous medical history, incomplete preoperative chemotherapy (<8 weeks), and prolonged postoperative interval >21 days. In the multivariate analysis, biopsy/tumor resection performed by different centers, incomplete implementation of planned new adjuvant chemotherapy, and delayed resumption of postoperative chemotherapy (>21 days) were risk factors for poor prognosis; biopsy/tumor resection performed by different centers and tumor necrosis <90% were independent predictors of local recurrence. Conclusion. For localized osteosarcoma treated with limb-salvage surgery, it is necessary to optimize timely standard chemotherapy and to resume postoperative chemotherapy to improve survival rates. Biopsies should be performed at experienced institutions in cases of developing local recurrence.
Microscopic Estimation of Road Impedance by Decomposing Traffic Delay into Individual Road Segments: An Analytical Approach
Authors: Mi Jiang , Bai Yuelong , Luo Mingbo , Wang Hui , Chen Minrui
Published: May 2019

Urban road dynamic impedance calculation is the important basis of dynamic traffic assignment and real‐time traffic management and control scheme. The current impedance calculation is mostly based on BPR function, and the BPR function is derived from macroscopic statistical laws, in which the microscopic characteristics of traffic flow are insufficiently described. In order to more accurately express the change laws of traffic impedance at the microscopic level, a stochastic dynamic traffic assignment algorithm based on road impedance function is designed to analyze the time impedance of congested roads under random dynamic traffic assignment under different conditions of road network saturation. Compared with the current model, the comprehensiveness and portability are greatly improved. The results show that the impedance calculation error of this method is less than 10% when the load degree of the road is lower than 0.85, which proves that the method has good precision under unsaturated flow conditions.
Constructing an Isogenic 3D Human Nephrogenic Progenitor Cell Model Composed of Endothelial, Mesenchymal, and SIX2-Positive Renal Progenitor Cells
Authors: Nguyen Lisa , Spitzhorn Lucas-Sebastian , Adjaye James
Published: May 2019

Urine has become the source of choice for noninvasive renal epithelial cells and renal stem cells which can be used for generating induced pluripotent stem cells. The aim of this study was to generate a 3D nephrogenic progenitor cell model composed of three distinct cell types—urine-derived SIX2-positive renal progenitor cells, iPSC-derived mesenchymal stem cells, and iPSC-derived endothelial cells originating from the same individual. Characterization of the generated mesenchymal stem cells revealed plastic adherent growth and a trilineage differentiation potential to adipocytes, chondrocytes, and osteoblasts. Furthermore, these cells express the typical MSC markers CD73, CD90, and CD105. The induced endothelial cells express the endothelial cell surface marker CD31. Upon combination of urine-derived renal progenitor cells, induced mesenchymal stem cells, and induced endothelial cells at a set ratio, the cells self-condensed into three-dimensional nephrogenic progenitor cells which we refer to as 3D-NPCs. Immunofluorescence-based stainings of sectioned 3D-NPCs revealed cells expressing the renal progenitor cell markers (SIX2 and PAX8), podocyte markers (Nephrin and Podocin), the endothelial marker (CD31), and mesenchymal markers (Vimentin and PDGFR-β). These 3D-NPCs share kidney progenitor characteristics and thus the potential to differentiate into podocytes and proximal and distal tubules. As urine-derived renal progenitor cells can be easily obtained from cells shed into urine, the generation of 3D-NPCs directly from renal progenitor cells instead of pluripotent stem cells or kidney biopsies holds a great potential for the use in nephrotoxicity tests, drug screening, modelling nephrogenesis and diseases.
Instability Process of Crack Propagation and Tunnel Failure Affected by Cross‐Sectional Geometry of an Underground Tunnel
Authors: Hao Xianjie , Wang Shaohua , Jin Duoxiang , Ren Bo , Zhang Xiangyang , Qiu Kailong , Fan Yingjie
Published: May 2019

The process of crack propagation and tunnel failure is affected by the cross‐sectional geometry of an underground tunnel. In order to quantify the effect of section shape on the process of crack propagation in deep tunnels under high ground stress conditions, a total of four physical models with two cross‐sectional shapes and twelve stress levels were designed and several large‐scale physical model tests were conducted. The results indicated that, when the vertical stress is 4.94 MPa, the length and depth of the cracks generated in the rock surrounding the horseshoe tunnel are about eight times that around a circular tunnel. The position where the circumferential displacement of the horseshoe tunnel begins to be stable is about two, to two and a half, times that around a circular tunnel. After the deep chamber was excavated, continuous spalling was found to occur at the foot of the horseshoe tunnel and microcracks in the surrounding rock were initially generated from the foot of the side wall and then developed upwards to form a conjugate sliding shape to the foot of the arch roof, where the cracks finally coalesced. Discontinuous spalling occurred at the midheight of the side wall of the circular tunnel after excavation, and microcracks in the surrounding rock were initially generated from the midheight of the side wall and then extended concentrically to greater depth in the rock mass surrounding the tunnel. Tensile failure mainly occurred on the surface of the side wall: shear failure mainly appeared in the surrounding rock.
Pathogenesis and Management of Macular Hole: Review of Current Advances
Authors: Bikbova Guzel , Oshitari Toshiyuki , Baba Takayuki , Yamamoto Shuichi , Mori Keisuke
Published: May 2019

Macular hole has been believed to be a disorder of vitreomacular interface, which forms as a result of abnormal vitreous traction from incomplete vitreous detachment. However, our recent studies demonstrated that dynamic forces, caused by mobile posterior cortical vitreous with fluid currents, exist already at early stages of macular hole development. Therefore, in eyes with flexible vitreous, the contributions of tractional forces due to vitreous shrinkage are unlikely. These facts indicate that in the development of idiopathic macular holes, there is a greater contribution of dynamic forces than has been previously reported. This review also evaluates the recent findings in the assessment of the idiopathic macular holes and the recent therapeutic strategies for optimal management. Inner limiting membrane is considered to improve anatomical closure rate; however, it is still questionable if peeling is necessary in holes less than 250 µm. There are plenty of publications indicating that in the management of small and medium size hole (less than 400 µm), use of long-lasting gas and face-down position is not always required; however, it may be necessary for the treatment of large holes. Ocriplasmin and expansile gas had been reported to be successful for management of small- and medium-sized holes and vitreomacular attachment.
Effect of Cell Wall Ductility and Toughness on Compressive Response and Strain Rate Sensitivity of Aluminium Foam
Authors: Byakova Alexandra , Gnyloskurenko Svyatoslav , Vlasov Andrey , Semenov Nikolay , Yevych Yan , Zatsarna Oleksandra , Danilyuk Vladimir
Published: May 2019

The study presents the effect of cell wall ductility and toughness on the compressive behaviour of closed-cell Al foams under static and dynamic loading and localised deformation by indentation. Two kinds of Al alloys including relatively ductile AlSiMg alloy and high-strength AlZnMg alloy, which comprises a great amount of brittle eutectic domains, were used as matrix materials. Both kinds of Al foams were fabricated via newly developed melt processing using the CaCO3-foaming agent without Ca additive. Mechanical behaviour of Al foams under quasi-static compression and indentation was examined and compared with that performed under dynamic loading using direct impact tests. Characteristic events revealed in deformation patterns of Al foams at quasi-static compression were also monitored with the CCD camera. Significant differences in stress-strain response and strain rate sensitivity of Al foams arose from the difference in the microstructure, and hence, ductility and toughness of the cell wall material were investigated and discussed.
Chronic Type A Aortic Dissection: Rare Presentation of Incidental Pericardial Effusion
Authors: Abugroun Ashraf , Subahi Ahmed , Gaznabi Safwan , Daoud Hussein
Published: May 2019

Aortic dissection is the most devastating sequelae of aortopathy other than aortic rupture. However, aortic dissection can be asymptomatic in the acute phase with delayed symptomatic presentation or incidental diagnosis upon chest imaging. We report a case of a 63-year-old male who was diagnosed with pericardial effusion upon preoperative workup for elective cholecystectomy. Further investigations confirmed hemorrhagic pericardial effusion secondary to a chronic dissecting ascending aortic aneurysm. The patient condition was successfully managed with open surgical repair with an uneventful postoperative course. This case demonstrates an extremely rare presentation of incidental hemorrhagic pericardial effusion caused by a chronic dissecting ascending aortic aneurysm.
Severity of Vitamin D Deficiency Predicts Mortality in Ischemic Stroke Patients
Authors: Wajda Jarosław , Świat Maciej , Owczarek Aleksander J. , Brzozowska Aniceta , Olszanecka-Glinianowicz Magdalena , Chudek Jerzy
Published: May 2019

Background. Vitamin D (VD) deficiency is considered an independent risk factor for death due to cardiovascular events including ischemic stroke (IS). We assessed the hypothesis that decreased levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH-D) are associated with increased risk of mortality in patients with IS. Methods. Serum 25-OH-D, intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH), and intact fibroblast growth factor 23 (iFGF23) levels were assessed in serum of 240 consecutive patients admitted within the 24 hours after the onset of IS. Mortality data was obtained from the local registry office. Results. Only three subjects (1.3%) had an optimal 25-OH-D level (30-80 ng/mL), 25 (10.4%) had a mildly reduced (insufficient) level, 61 (25.4%) had moderate deficiency, and 151 (62.9%) had a severe VD deficiency. 20% subjects had secondary hyperparathyroidism. The serum 25-OH-D level was significantly lower than that in 480 matched subjects (9.9±7.1 vs. 21.0±8.7 ng/mL). Of all the patients, 79 (32.9%) died during follow-up observation (44.9 months). The mortality rates (per year) were 4.81 and 1.89 in a group with and without severe VD deficiency, respectively (incidence rate ratio: 2.52; 95% CI: 1.44–4.68). There was no effect of secondary hyperparathyroidism and iFGF23 levels on mortality rates. Age, 25−OH−D<10 ng/mL, and functional status (modified Rankin scale) were significant factors increasing the risk of death in multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression test. Conclusions. Severe VD deficiency is an emerging, strong negative predictor for survival after IS, independent of age and functional status. VD supplementation in IS survivals may be considered due to high prevalence of its deficiency. However, it is uncertain whether it will improve their survival.
A BIM‐Based Study on the Comprehensive Benefit Analysis for Prefabricated Building Projects in China
Authors: Ji Yingbo , Chang Siwei , Qi Yuan , Li Yan , Li Hong Xian , Qi Kai
Published: May 2019

Prefabricated construction has been widely accepted as an alternative to conventional cast‐in‐situ construction, given its improved performance. Great efforts have also been made to develop prefabricated construction technologies in China. However, there is a lack of an appropriate pattern for evaluating its comprehensive economic merits, and reasonable mathematical models for providing a comparative analysis of conventional cast‐in‐situ and prefabricated building projects have yet to be developed. Therefore, the research in this paper aims to comprehensively evaluate the economic benefits of implementing prefabricated construction techniques in order to surpass the economic barrier and promote the development of prefabricated buildings in China. The comprehensive economic evaluation is formulated in terms of resource‐use efficiencies, project progress, and incentive policies. An apartment building in Shanghai is selected as a case study. Construction progress is simulated on the BIM platform when the same case study is rationally transformed from the prefabricated to the conventional cast‐in‐situ construction technique. The results reveal that the comprehensive economic merit can reach ¥739.6/m2 when selecting the prefabricated construction process. The economic benefit brought by shortening the construction period can be regarded as the most significant contributor. Yet, the current incentive policies only contribute 7.1% of the comprehensive economic evaluation. Overall, this research contributes an assessment framework for decision‐making in the technique management of building construction. The BIM‐based simulation approach can greatly help investors to identify the relevant economic factors and adopt the latest incentive policies.
Three-Mode Vortex Wave Generator with Double-Layer Patch Antennas
Authors: Hu Jun , Qiu Tong-Tong , Lan Xue , Xu Wei , Qian Song-Song
Published: May 2019

With the development of Multiple-Input Multiple-Output technologies, researches on radio vortex wave with orbital angular momentum have become active. At the same time, generators of miniaturized planar antennas have become very interesting. Considering multilayer package, we proposed a uniform circle array consisting of four double-layer patch antennas with microstrip backfeeds. The antenna can generate three modes of vortex waves, which works at frequency 7.6GHz with a bandwidth 8.5%. Compared with orbital angular momentum antennas of phased uniform circular array with other cells, this proposed structure can be easily integrated with planar feeding networks and decoupling networks.