bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on Keyword Extraction Algorithm in English Text Based on Cluster Analysis
Authors: Ma Jingxia
Published: March 2022

How to facilitate users to quickly and accurately search for the text information they need is a current research hotspot. Text clustering can improve the efficiency of information search and is an effective text retrieval method. Keyword extraction and cluster center point selection are key issues in text clustering research. Common keyword extraction algorithms can be divided into three categories: semantic-based algorithms, machine learning-based algorithms, and statistical model-based algorithms. There are three common methods for selecting cluster centers: randomly selecting the initial cluster center point, manually specifying the cluster center point, and selecting the cluster center point according to the similarity between the points to be clustered. The randomly selected initial cluster center points may contain “outliers,” and the clustering results are locally optimal. Manually specifying the cluster center points will be very subjective because each person’s understanding of the text set is different, and it is not suitable for the case of a large number of text sets. Selecting the cluster center points according to the similarity between the points to be clustered can make the selected cluster center points distributed in each class and be as close as possible to the class center points, but it takes a long time to calculate the cluster centers. Aiming at this problem, this paper proposes a keyword extraction algorithm based on cluster analysis. The results show that the algorithm does not rely on background knowledge bases, dictionaries, etc., and obtains statistical parameters and builds models through training. Experiments show that the keyword extraction algorithm has high accuracy and can quickly extract the subject content of an English translation.
Fekete–Szegö Problems for Certain Classes of Meromorphic Functions Involving q‐Al‐Oboudi Differential Operator
Authors: Aouf M.K. , El-Emam Fatma Z.
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we introduce a new derivative operator involving q‐Al‐Oboudi differential operator for meromorphic functions. By using this new operator, we define a new subclass of meromorphic functions and obtain the Fekete–Szegő inequalities.
Biomechanical Investigation of the Posterior Pedicle Screw Fixation System at Level L4-L5 Lumbar Segment with Traditional and Cortical Trajectories: A Finite Element Study
Authors: Kahaer Alafate , Zhou Zhihao , Maitirouzi Julaiti , Wang Shuiquan , Shi Wenjie , Abuduwaili Nueraihemaiti , Maimaiti Xieraili , Liu Dongshan , Sheng Weibin , Rexiti Paerhati
Published: March 2022

There is no detailed biomechanical research about the hybrid CBT-TT (CBT screws at cranial level and TT screws at caudal level) and TT-CBT (TT screws at cranial level and CBT screws at caudal level) techniques with finite element (FE) method. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to evaluate and provide specific biomechanical data of the hybrid lumbar posterior fixation system and compare with traditional pedicle screw and cortical screw trajectories without fusion, in FE method. Specimens were from the anatomy laboratory of Xinjiang Medical University. Four FE models of the L4-L5 lumbar spine segment were generated. For each of these, four implanted models with the following instruments were created: bilateral traditional trajectory screw fixation (TT-TT), bilateral cortical bone trajectory screw fixation (CBT-CBT), hybrid CBT-TT fixation, and hybrid TT-CBT fixation. A 400 N compressive load with 7.5 Nm moments was applied so as to simulate flexion, extension, left lateral bending, right lateral bending, left rotation, and right rotation, respectively. The range of motion (ROM) of the L4-L5 segment and the posterior fixation, the von Mises stress of the intervertebral disc, and the posterior fixation in four implanted models were compared. CBT-TT displayed a lower ROM of the fixation segment (3.82 ± 0.633°) compared to TT-TT (4.78 ± 0.306°) and CBT-CBT (4.23 ± 0.396°). In addition, CBT-TT showed a lower ROM of the posterior fixation (0.595 ± 0.108°) compared to TT-TT (0.795 ± 0.103°) and CBT-CBT (0.758 ± 0.052°). The intervertebral disc stress of CBT-TT (4.435 ± 0.604 MPa) was lower than TT-TT (7.592 ± 0.387 MPa) and CBT-CBT (6.605 ± 0.600 MPa). CBT-TT (20.228 ± 3.044 MPa) and TT-CBT (12.548 ± 2.914 MPa) displayed a lower peak von Mises stress of the posterior fixation compared to TT-TT (25.480 ± 3.737 MPa). The hybrid CBT-TT and TT-CBT techniques offered superior fixation strength compared to the CBT-CBT and TT-TT techniques.
A Survey on Cluster Head Selection and Cluster Formation Methods in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Raj Bryan , Ahmedy Ismail , Idris Mohd Yamani Idna , Md. Noor Rafidah
Published: March 2022

In recent years, wireless sensor networks (WSNs) have been growing rapidly because of their ability to sense data, communicate wirelessly, and compute data efficiently. These networks contain small and low-powered sensor nodes that organize and configure themselves to carry out their functions. Even though WSNs are cheap, easy to deploy, flexible, and efficient, there are some challenges in terms of energy efficiency and network lifetime. Clustering in WSNs is the most reliable solution for the challenges, in which nodes are grouped into few clusters, and a cluster head (CH) is selected for data aggregation and data transfer to the base station (BS). However, there are still many challenges such as energy hole and isolated node problems that exist because of inefficient CH selection and cluster formation methods. In this work, we comprehensively reviewed various nonmetaheuristic and metaheuristic methods for CH selection and cluster formation that are used in networks from various environmental settings, for a better understanding of how the aforementioned problems are tackled by some authors. Moreover, the methods’ parameter settings, advantages, limitations, and future directions are presented with a brief performance summary of the approaches.
Generalized Intuitionistic Fuzzy Normalized Weighted Optimized Geometric Bonferroni Mean and Their Application to MADM
Authors: Zhang Jin-Bo , Sun Tian-Le , Shi Ming-Hua
Published: March 2022

In an information age, people often need to face a lot of decision-making information when making decisions. Some indicators are on the high side and others are on the low side which is a common phenomenon in decision-making. So, it is difficult to make a correct and rational judgment. Long-term research has proved that information aggregation operator is an effective tool to solve this kind of problem. Bonferroni mean (BM) is an important information aggregation tool which has the main feature of capturing the interrelationships among aggregated arguments. Because the existing geometric Bonferroni mean (GBM) cannot reflect the two-layer average calculation and the weighted GBM do not feature reducibility, this paper develops the intuitionistic fuzzy normalized weighted optimized GBM (IFNWOGBM) and the generalized intuitionistic fuzzy normalized weighted optimized GBM (GIFNWOGBM) and also studies their desirable properties and special cases. In the end, based on the IFNWOGBM and GIFNWOGBM, a method to multiple attribute decision-making (MADM) problem is proposed. In order to verify the effectiveness of the method, it is used to select the location of the library.
A Retrospective Study Using Mentzer Index for Prevalence of Iron Deficiency Anemia among Infants Visiting Maternal Centers at the Age of One Year
Authors: Amer Johnny
Published: March 2022

Anemia, defined as a hemoglobin level two standard deviations below the mean for age, is prevalent in infants and children worldwide. Characterizing anemia as microcytic and normocytic depends on the mean corpuscular volume (MCV), which is an important parameter in differentiating many types of anemia. Microcytic anemia due to iron deficiency is the most common type of anemia in children. In this study, we aimed to assess the Mentzer index used by the Ministry of Health (MOH) in Palestine as a useful tool in differentiating between iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and thalassemia. We assessed for the prevalence of IDA among infants at the age of one year visiting the mother centers from seven West Bank provinces in Palestine. Medical records and hematology laboratory data of 3262 infants were retrospectively analyzed from the years of 2018 to 2020. The Mentzer index applied to all population by dividing mean corpuscular volume (MCV, in fL) by the red blood cell count (RBC, in millions per microliter). A corrected Mentzer index was further calculated among anemic infants to include only microcytic (MCV with less than 72 fl) and hypochromic (mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) with less than 32 g/L) indices. Mentzer index calculations for the whole population showed that 29.1% were anemic (hemoglobin (HGB) less than 11 g/dl): 21.1% had mild anemia, 7.6% had moderate anemia, while 0.2% had severe anemia. The corrected Mentzer index calculations showed a prevalence of 5.9% and 3.2% among IDA and thalassemia infants, respectively. Severity of anemia was correlated with low body weight and infants born through cesarean mother birth with no interference with gender influence. CBC indices of RBC count, HGB, MCV, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) showed a significant difference (

p

values < 0.05) between IDA and thalassemia infants’ populations following the corrected Mentzer index. With the corrected Mentzer index, we introduced a new CBC index among infants at the age of 1 year in Palestine. These lab references could aid in differentiating IDA and thalassemia among the population and improve initial diagnosis screenings. The Mentzer index calculation for the whole population did not necessarily include cases of IDA, and therefore, it is recommended to comprise microcytic and hypochromic anemia indices prior to performing the Mentzer index.
Study on the Adsorption Characteristics of Mo-Doped Graphene on the Decomposition Products of SF6 Substitute Gas Based on First-Principle Calculations
Authors: Ding Can , Hu Xing , Feng Lu
Published: March 2022

C4F7N, C5F10O, etc., as new environmental-friendly alternative gases decompose under partial discharge and produce a series of products such as CO, CF4, C2F6, C3F8, CF3CN, C2F5CN, and COF2. Based on the first-principles calculation method of density functional theory (DFT), the adsorption characteristics of intrinsic state graphene and Mo-doped graphene adsorbing SF6 and its substitute gas decomposition products are calculated and analyzed. By comparing the adsorption energy, adsorption distance, density of state, Mulliken charge population, charge transfer amount, and molecular orbital energy for adsorbing different decomposition gases, it can be seen that the system structure is the most stable when Mo is doped at the T site of the graphene surface. The adsorption of Mo-doped graphene on gas molecules is significantly stronger than that of intrinsic graphene, and the order of adsorption is: SO2F2 > H2S > SO2 > CF4. The adsorption of H2S gas molecules by intrinsic state and Mo-doped graphene is n-type adsorption, while the adsorption of SO2F2, CF4, and SO2 gas molecules is p-type adsorption. Mo-doped graphene can be used as a detection device for SO2F2 gas resistance sensors.
Reverse Visually Guided Reaching in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Gaprielian Pauline , Scott Stephen H. , Levy Ron
Published: March 2022

In addition to motor symptoms such as difficulty in movement initiation and bradykinesia, patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) display nonmotor executive cognitive dysfunction with deficits in inhibitory control. Preoperative psychological assessments are used to screen for impulsivity that may be worsened by deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subthalamic nucleus (STN). However, it is unclear whether anti-Parkinson’s therapy, such as dopamine replacement therapy (DRT) or DBS, which has beneficial effects on motor function, adversely affects inhibitory control or its domains. The detrimental effects of STN-DBS are more apparent when tasks test the inhibition of habitual prepotent responses or involve complex cognitive loads. Our goal was to use a reverse visually guided reaching (RVGR) task, a hand-based version of the antisaccade task, to simultaneously measure motor performance and response inhibition in subjects with PD. We recruited 55 healthy control subjects, 26 PD subjects receiving treatment with DRTs, and 7 PD subjects receiving treatment with STN-DBS and DRTs. In the RVGR task, a cursor moved opposite to the subject’s hand movement. This was compared to visually guided reaching (VGR) where the cursor moved in the same direction as the subject’s hand movement. Reaction time, mean speed, and direction errors (in RVGR) were assessed. Reaction times were longer, and mean speeds were slower during RVGR compared to VGR in all three groups but worse in untreated subjects with PD. Treatment with DRTs, DBS, or DBS + DRT improved the reaction time and speed on the RVGR task to a greater extent than VGR. Additionally, DBS or DBS + DRT demonstrated an increase in direction errors, which was correlated with decreased reaction time. These results show that the RVGR task quantifies the benefit of STN-DBS on bradykinesia and the concomitant reduction of proactive inhibitory control. The RVGR task has the potential to be used to rapidly screen for preoperative deficits in inhibitory control and to titrate STN-DBS, to maximize the therapeutic benefits on movement, and minimize impaired inhibitory control.
Factors Influencing the Stability of Blood Eosinophils Counts in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients
Authors: Cai Cheng-Sen , Wang Jun
Published: March 2022

Blood eosinophil (EOS) has recently been recognized as a biomarker for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. However, few studies have concentrated on the stability of blood eosinophil counts (BEC), and those studies have produced varying results. With further research, we have found minor drawbacks and vulnerabilities that lead to the variability of the results. This paper enumerates several areas of relevant research with varying conclusions to further investigate the stability of BEC in COPD patients.
Construction of an Assessment System for Business English Linguistics Based on RNN Multidimensional Models
Authors: Shi Yu , Shi Hu
Published: March 2022

The current teaching evaluation system of the course “Introduction to Business English Linguistics” has many problems and should be reformed according to the requirements of the relevant professional syllabus. This paper proposes a recurrent neural network (RNN) modelling technique, which has achieved good results in modelling business English language models. The RNN modelling method is applied to Chinese language modelling according to the characteristics of Chinese language, and the advantages of the two models are combined to propose a fusion model. The experimental results demonstrate that this paper focuses on the process, diversity, and humanity of teaching evaluation and discusses the construction of the evaluation system model of the course “Introduction to Business English Linguistics” in terms of the content and criteria of teaching evaluation and the methods of teaching evaluation, so as to provide a new model for the teaching reform of the course “Introduction to Business English Linguistics”.
Ageing Increases Cardiac Electrical Remodelling in Rats and Mice via NOX4/ROS/CaMKII-Mediated Calcium Signalling
Authors: Luo Xian , Yu Wendie , Liu Zhu , Pu Zhaoli , Liu Ting , Li Yangpeng , Liu Weichao , Lei Ming , Tan Xiaoqiu , Chen Tangting
Published: March 2022

Objective. Ageing is one of the risk factors associated with cardiovascular diseases including cardiac arrhythmias and heart failure. Ageing-related cardiac dysfunction involves a complicated pathophysiological progress. Abnormal membrane voltage and Ca2+ dynamics in aged cardiomyocytes contribute to ageing-related arrhythmias. However, its underlying mechanisms have not been well clarified. Methods. Young and old rats or mice were included in this study. Cardiac electrophysiological properties and functions were assessed by ECG, echocardiography, and ex vivo heart voltage and Ca2+ optical mapping. Proteomics, phosphor-proteomics, Western blotting, Masson staining, and ROS measurement were used to investigate the underlying mechanisms. Results. Ageing increased the incidence of cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis in rats. Moreover, ageing increased the occurrence of ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation induced by rapid pacing and during isoprenaline (ISO) (1 mg/kg i.p.) challenge in mice in vivo. Optical mapping with dual dyes (membrane voltage (

V

m

) dye and intracellular Ca2+ dye) simultaneously recording revealed that ageing increased the action potential duration (APD) and Ca2+ transient duration (CaTD) and slowed the ventricular conduction with the Langendorff-perfused mouse heart. More importantly, ageing increased the ISO-induced (1 μM) changes of APD (ΔAPD80) and CaTD (ΔCaTD50). Ageing also delayed the decay of Ca2+ transient by extending the decay time constant from 30% to 90% (

τ

30
−
90

). In addition, ageing decreased the

V

m

/
C

a

2
+

latency which represented the coupling of

V

m

/
C

a

2
+

including between the midpoint of AP depolarization and Ca2+ upstroke, peak transmembrane voltage and peak cytosolic calcium, and time to 50% voltage repolarization and extrusion of cytosolic calcium. Optical mapping also revealed that ageing increased the ISO-induced arrhythmia incidence and occurrence of the excitation rotor. Proteomics and phosphor-proteomics assays from rat hearts demonstrated ageing-induced protein and phosphor-protein changes, suggesting that CaMKII was involved in ageing-induced change. Ageing increased the level of ROS and the expression of NOX4, oxidative CaMKII (ox-CaMKII), phosphorated CaMKII (p-CaMKII), and periostin. Conclusion. Ageing accelerates cardiac remodelling and increases the susceptibility to ventricular arrhythmias through NOX4/ROS/CaMKII pathway-mediated abnormal membrane voltage and intracellular Ca2+ handling and

V

m

/
C

a

2
+

coupling.
High School Students’ Attitudes towards E-Learning and Impacts of Online Instruction on Their General English Learning: Challenges and Issues
Authors: Ninsiana Widhiya , Gabidullina Farida Imamutdinovna , Widodo Mulyanto , Patra Indrajit , Pallathadka Harikumar , Alkhateeb Dhulfiqar Ali Abdulhussein Mousa , Zainal Anna Gustina , Gheisari Asma
Published: March 2022

This research is aimed at examining high school students’ attitudes towards e-learning. Also, the current study investigated the effects of online learning on high school students’ general English. To achieve these objectives, the Oxford Quick Placement Test (OQPT) was administered to 73 students, and 50 of them who were at the intermediate level were selected as the study participants. Then, the selected participants were randomly divided into two groups: one experimental group (EG) (n=25) and one control group (CG) (n=25). After that, a general English pretest was administered to both groups, and then, the participants of the EG received the treatment through an online instruction (WhatsApp). Three lessons of their course book (Vision book 3) were taught to the participants via the WhatsApp application. On the other hand, the participants of the CG were deprived of online instruction. They were taught traditionally, through holding a face-to-face class. After teaching all three lessons, both groups took the posttest of general English. In addition, an attitude questionnaire was administered to the participants of the EG to examine their perspectives on e-learning, and ten students were interviewed. The study results indicated that the EG outperformed the CG on the posttest. In addition, the results of one-samplet-test showed that EFL students held positive perspectives on e-learning in teaching English. The interview results indicated that digital literacy, inability to focus on the screen for a long time, and lack of accessibility to high-speed Internet were the problems of e-learning.
Luciferase-Based Determination of ATP/NAD(H) Pools in a Marine (Environmental) Bacterium
Authors: Wünsch Daniel , Scheve Sabine , Weiten Arne , Kalvelage Kristin , Rabus Ralf
Published: March 2022

In all living organisms, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and NAD(H) represent universal molecular currencies for energy and redox state, respectively, and are thus widely applicable molecular proxies for an organism’s viability and activity. To this end, corresponding luciferase-based assays in combination with a microplate reader were established with the marine model bacterium Phaeobacter inhibens DSM 17395 (Escherichia coli K12 served as reference). Grey multiwell plates best balanced sensitivity and crosstalk, and optimal incubation times were 5 min and 30 min for the ATP and NAD(H) assay, respectively, together allowing limits of detection of 0.042, 0.470 and 0.710 nM for ATP, NAD+, and NADH, respectively. Quenching of bacterial cell samples involved Tris-EDTA-DTAB and bicarbonate base-DTAB for ATP and NAD(H) assays, respectively. The ATP and NAD(H) yields determined for P. inhibens DSM 17395 at ¼ ODmax were found to reside well within the range previously reported for E. coli and other bacteria, e.g., 3.28 µmol ATP (g cellsdry)−1. Thus, the here described methods for luciferase-based determination of ATP/NAD(H) pools open a promising approach to investigate energy and redox states in marine (environmental) bacteria.
Cochlear Nerve Deficiency in Pediatric Unilateral Hearing Loss and Asymmetric Hearing Loss
Authors: Vos Teresa G. , Park Lisa R. , Noxon Amy S. , Brown Kevin D.
Published: March 2022

Introduction: The rates of cochlear nerve abnormalities and cochlear malformations in pediatric unilateral hearing loss (UHL) are conflicting in the literature, with important implications on management. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of cochlear nerve deficiency (CND) in pediatric subjects with UHL or asymmetric hearing loss (AHL). Methods: A retrospective chart review of pediatric subjects <18 years of age evaluated for UHL or AHL with fine-cut heavily T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) between January 2014 and October 2019 (n = 291) at a tertiary referral center was conducted. MRI brain and computed tomography temporal bone were reviewed for the presence of inner ear malformations and/or CND. Status of the ipsilateral cochlear nerve and inner ear was evaluated. Pure tone average (PTA) at 500, 1,000 and 2,000 Hz was assessed. Results: 204 subjects with UHL and 87 subjects with AHL were included. CND (aplasia or hypoplasia) was demonstrated in 61 pediatric subjects with UHL (29.9%) and 10 with AHL (11.5%). Ipsilateral cochlear malformations were noted in 25 subjects with UHL (12.3%) and 11 with AHL (12.6%), and ipsilateral vestibular malformations in 23 (11.3%) and 12 (13.8%) ears, respectively. Median PTA was statistically significantly higher in ears with CND (98.33) than ears with normal nerves (90.84). Discussion/Conclusion: Imaging demonstrated a high incidence of inner ear malformations, particularly CND, in pediatric subjects with UHL. Auditory findings indicated CND cannot be ruled out by thresholds alone as some CND ears did demonstrate measurable hearing. Radiologic evaluation by MRI should be performed in all patients within this population to guide counseling and management of hearing loss based on etiology, with implications on candidacy for cochlear implantation.
Exome-Based Trio Analysis for Diagnosis of the Cause of Congenital Severe Hemolytic Anemia in a Child
Authors: Rieneck Klaus , Lausen Birgitte , Clausen Frederik Banch , Jønson Lars , Hansen Anne Todsen , Dziegiel Morten Hanefeld
Published: March 2022

Inborn hemolytic anemia requiring frequent blood transfusions can be a life-threatening disease. Treatment, besides blood transfusion, includes iron chelation for prevention of iron accumulation due to frequent blood transfusions. We present the results of a clinical investigation where the proband was diagnosed with severe hemolytic anemia of unknown origin soon after birth. Transfusion was required every 4–6 weeks. After whole exome sequencing of the proband and his parents as well as a healthy sibling, we established that the proband had a compound heterozygous state carrying two rare variants in the erythrocytic spectrin gene, SPTA1. The maternal allele was a stop mutation (rs755630903) and the paternal allele was a missense mutation (rs375506528). The healthy sibling had the paternal variant but not the maternal variant. These rare variants of SPTA1 most likely account for the hemolytic anemia. A severely reduced osmotic resistance in the erythrocytes from the proband was demonstrated. Splenectomy considerably improved the hemolytic anemia and obviated the need for blood transfusion despite the severe clinical presentation.
Physical Activity in Late Middle- to Older-Aged People and Dementia, Cognitive, and Physical Function Two Decades Later
Authors: Öhlin Jerry , Toots Annika , Littbrand Håkan , Wennberg Patrik , Olofsson Birgitta , Gustafson Yngve , Hörnsten Carl , Werneke Ursula , Nordström Peter , Niklasson Johan , Söderberg Stefan
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Low physical activity (PA) is a potential risk factor for dementia and cognitive impairment. However, few studies have focused on very old people (aged ≥80 years), the age group with highest prevalence of dementia. The aim was to investigate if PA associated with subsequent dementia, cognitive function, and gait speed (GS), in very old people. Methods: A population-based survey was conducted in 1999 and followed-up between 2016 and 2019 in participants ≥80 years. Altogether 541 individuals (56.2% women), 64.9 ± 4.2 years of age at baseline participated. Self-rated baseline PA was categorized into low, medium, or high. Cognitive function was assessed with the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), executive function with the Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB), and GS (in meters/second) was measured over 2.4 m at follow-up. Results: During a mean of 19.0 ± 1.1 years, 175 (32.3%) developed dementia. Low or medium PA compared to high PA did not associate with subsequent dementia, and PA did not associate with future cognitive function (MMSE). PA associated with executive function (FAB) (unstandardized beta [95% confidence interval]) (0.67 [0.07–1.27]), but not after adjustments. PA associated with subsequent GS in the unadjusted model and after adjustment for age, sex, smoking, and education (0.06 [0.02–0.09], and 0.04 [0.01–0.08], respectively), but not after adding adjustment for hypertension, obesity, and glucose intolerance. Conclusion: No support was found for the hypothesis that low PA is a potential risk factor for dementia in very high age. However, PA and executive function were associated in unadjusted analyses which indicate that PA may be important for at least one aspect of cognitive function. The association between PA and GS around 2 decades later seems attenuated by cardiometabolic risk factors. Future investigations regarding PA, dementia, and cognitive decline may consider cardiometabolic risk factors such as hypertension, obesity, and glucose intolerance, and include repeated measures of PA over the life course.
Therapeutic Touch in the Management of Responsive Behaviors in Patients with Dementia
Authors: Senderovich Helen , Gardner Sandra , Berall Anna , Shultz Roslyn , Grant Brenda , Santaguida Vincent
Published: March 2022

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the use of therapeutic touch (TT) in the management of responsive behaviors in patients with dementia. Methods: A randomized, double-blinded control trial was used to compare response to TT in a population with responsive behaviors in dementia, in 3 phases, pretreatment, treatment, and posttreatment each lasting 5 days. The participants were divided into three groups: experimental, placebo, and control. The experimental group received regular TT, the placebo group received mimic TT, and the control group received regular routine care. Behavior was observed and recorded by trained research assistants every 20 min during the study time throughout each of the phases. Modified Agitated Behavior Rating Scale (ABRS) and Revised Memory and Behavior Check (RMBC) scores were used to assess the behavioral symptoms of dementia throughout the study. Results: All groups had decreasing RMBC scores during the pretreatment period, however; the experimental TT group was the only group whose RMBC scores continued to decrease during the treatment period. All groups had a similar pattern of rates of change in ABRS scores over the 15-day period, with no differential pattern of results related to experimental TT. Conclusion: Despite limited evidence, TT should be explored as an adjunctive therapy for reducing behavioral symptoms in individuals with dementia. Further research is needed to determine the effects of TT on responsive behaviors in dementia. There is a need for studies with larger sample sizes, equal distribution of participants between groups (in terms of dementia stages), and longer post study follow-ups.
Circulating Biomarkers Predict Symptomatic but Not Asymptomatic Carotid Artery Stenosis
Authors: Fatemi Shahab , Acosta Stefan , Zarrouk Moncef , Engström Gunnar , Melander Olle , Gottsäter Anders
Published: March 2022

Background: Subjects exposed to risk factors such as age, gender, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and smoking are prone to atherosclerotic events. Aims: The main aim of this longitudinal cohort study was to determine whether the role of novel plasma biomarkers for atherosclerotic carotid artery disease is different in subjects developing symptomatic carotid artery stenosis (CAS), as opposed to those with incident asymptomatic CAS. Methods: The following biomarkers were measured in 5,550 middle-aged subjects in a population-based cohort study: C-reactive protein (CRP), lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 mass and activity, proneurotensin, midregional proadrenomedullin (MR-proADM), midregional proatrial natriuretic peptide (MR-proANP), N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT pro-BNP), copeptin, and cystatin C. After exclusion of those with prevalent CAS, subjects were thereafter followed in national patient registers for 23.4 (interquartile range 19.5–24.3) years regarding incident symptomatic and asymptomatic CAS. Results: Among 110 patients with confirmed incident CAS, 56 were symptomatic and 54 were asymptomatic. When including conventional risk markers in a Cox regression analysis, NT pro-BNP (hazard ratio [HR] 1.59; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.20–2.11), MR-proADM (HR 1.40; CI: 1.13–1.73), cystatin C (HR 1.21; CI: 1.02–1.43), and CRP (HR 1.53; CI: 1.13–1.73) were independently associated with incident symptomatic CAS, whereas no plasma biomarker was associated with incident asymptomatic CAS. Conclusion: Plasma biomarkers NT pro-BNP, MR-proADM, cystatin C, and CRP were independently associated with incident symptomatic CAS, whereas no such association could be demonstrated with incident asymptomatic CAS. As these biomarkers indicate future development of clinically relevant atherosclerotic CAS, their potential utility in relation to intensified preventive measures and selection of potential candidates for carotid surgery should be further evaluated.
Aknenarben: Über die Rolle und die Möglichkeiten von energiebasierten Geräten
Authors: Schulz Andrea
Published: March 2022

Background and objectives: Acne scars are one of the most distressing and long-term consequences of acne vulgaris, with damaging effect on a person’s physical, mental, and social well-being. Numerous treatment options are available including surgical and nonsurgical techniques, depending on the clinical presentation. Although considerable advances in the development of new treatment technologies and applications have been made in the last decade, international treatment guidelines and reimbursement schemes have not yet caught up with current knowledge and practice in many centers. The authors intend to highlight the potential utility of energy-based devices (EBDs) for acne scarring, offer recommendations for safe and efficacious treatment, and provide consensus-based EBD treatment options based on varying presentations demonstrated in a series of real-life clinical photographs. Study design/materials and methods: An international panel of 24 dermatologists and plastic surgeons from 12 different countries and a variety of practice backgrounds was self-assembled to develop updated consensus recommendations for the treatment of acne scars. A two-step modified Delphi method took place between March 2020 and February 2021 consisting of two rounds of emailed questionnaires. The panel members approved the final manuscript via email correspondence. Results: The manuscript includes a comprehensive discussion and panel recommendations regarding the following topics: 1. the role of EBD in mitigating and treating acne scars in a patient with active acne, 2. the use of various EBDs for the treatment of different acne scar types with special focus on commonly used laser platform such as vascular lasers, ablative fractional lasers (AFLs) and non-AFLs (NAFLs), 3. treatment combinations, and 4. acne scar treatments in skin of color. The last part comprised of 10 photos of real-life clinical cases with the panel recommendation treatment plan to achieve best aesthetic outcome. Conclusion: Panel members were unanimous in their view that EBDs have a role in the management of acne scars, with AFLs, NAFLs, vascular lasers, and RF devices preferentially selected by most of the panel experts. EBDs are considered a first-line treatment for a variety of acne scar types and patients without access to these treatments may not be receiving the best available care for optimal cosmetic results. Future high-quality research and updated international treatment guidelines and reimbursement schemes should reflect this status.
The Mitochondrial tRNAAsp T7561C, tRNAHis C12153T, and A12172G Mutations May Be Associated with Essential Hypertension in a Han Chinese Pedigree
Authors: Fu Haiying , Sun Jinming , Xu Xiaoyan
Published: March 2022

Objectives: Mutations in mitochondrial tRNA (mt-tRNA) are the important causes for maternally inherited hypertension; however, the pathophysiology of mt-tRNA mutations in clinical expression of hypertension remains poorly understood. Material and Methods: In this study, we report the molecular features of a Han Chinese pedigree with maternally transmitted essential hypertension. The entire mitochondrial genomes are PCR amplified and sequenced. Moreover, phylogenetic analysis, haplogroup analysis, as well as pathogenicity scoring system are used to assess the potential roles for mtDNA mutations. Results: Strikingly, among 10 matrilineal relatives, 3 suffer from variable degree of hypertension at different age at onset. Sequence analysis of the complete mitochondrial genomes suggests the presence of three possible pathogenic mtDNA mutations: tRNAAsp T7561C, tRNAHis C12153T, and A12172G, together with a set of variants belonging to East Asian mitochondrial haplogroup M7a. Interestingly, the T7561C mutation occurs at position 44 in the variable region of tRNAAsp, while the C12153T and A12172G mutations are localized at extremely conserved nucleotides in the D-arm and anticodon stem of tRNAHis gene, respectively, which are critical for tRNA steady-state level and function. Conclusions: Mitochondrial T7561C, C12153T, and A12172G mutations may lead to the failure in tRNAs metabolism and cause mitochondrial dysfunction that is responsible for hypertension. However, the homoplasmy form of mt-tRNA mutations, incomplete penetrance of hypertension suggests that T7561C, C12153T, and A12172G mutations are insufficient to produce the clinical phenotype; hence, other risk factors such as environmental factors, nuclear genes, and epigenetic modifications may contribute to the phenotypic manifestation of maternally inherited hypertension in this Chinese pedigree.
Static magnetic field promotes proliferation, migration, differentiation, and AKT activation of periodontal ligament stem cells
Authors: Zhang Kun , Ge WenBin , Luo ShiTong , Zhou Zhi , Liu YaLi
Published: March 2022

Periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) possess self-renewal and multilineage differentiation potential and exhibit great potential for the treatment of bone tissue defects caused by inflammation. Previous studies have indicated that static magnetic field (SMF) can enhance the proliferation and differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). SMF has been widely used to repair bone defects and for orthodontic and implantation treatment. In this study, we revealed that a 320 mT SMF upregulates the protein expression levels of cytokines such as MCM7 and PCNA in proliferating PDLSCs. Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) results revealed that the SMF group had higher optical density (OD) values than the control group. The ratio of cells in the S phase to those in the G2/M phase was significantly increased after exposure to a 320 mT SMF. In scratch assays, the SMF-treated PDLSCs exhibited a higher migration rate than the sham-exposed group after 24 h of culture, indicating that the SMF promoted the migratory ability of PDLSCs. The activity level of the early differentiation marker alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and the late marker matrix mineralization, as well as osteoblast-specific gene and protein expression, were enhanced in PDLSCs exposed to the SMF. Furthermore, AKT signalling pathway were activated by SMF. Our data demonstrated that the potential mechanism of action of SMF may enhance PDLSCs proliferation and osteogenic differentiation by activating the phosphorylated AKT pathways. The elucidation of this molecular mechanism may lead to a better understanding of bone repair responses and aid in improved stem cell-mediated regeneration.
Combined Interaction of Cellular and Extracellular Components Causes Genetic Cascade Activation in Breast Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Chauhan Disha , Geetika Saini , Kumar Sunil , Kumar Ranjit
Published: March 2022

Breast cancer (BC) consists of malignant cells as well as surrounding nonmalignant cells – fibroblasts, macrophages, endothelial cells, lymphocytes, neutrophils, mesenchymal stem cells, and extracellular matrix (ECM). This surrounding stroma is referred to as the breast tumor microenvironment (BTME). The components of BTME interact with cancerous breast cells for the promotion of BC. The reciprocal cross talk between BTME and neoplastic breast cells, through the secretion of chemicals, growth factors, and chemokines, may lead to cell proliferation, migration, metastasis as well as immune response suppression. Multiple genetic loci, in association with stromal components, are linked to immunological stimuli to induce BC in ductal cells. These genes participate in tumor activation pathways and promote carcinogenesis via fibroblast, leukocyte, and endothelial-cell-mediated responses. The collaborative effect of the cellular components and BTME-associated genes plays vital role in tumor initiation and metastasis of breast cells. This process involves genes which cause degenerative changes in ECM leading to epithelial-mesenchymal transitions, which finally causes metastatic BC. This shows that metastatic BC results from combined activation of different cellular and extracellular components, and their activity is primarily controlled by activation of the genetic cascade. These components work simultaneously to cause metastatic BC.
Extracellular Regucalcin Suppresses the Growth, Migration, Invasion, and Adhesion of Metastatic Human Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Yamaguchi Masayoshi , Murata Tomiyasu , Ramos Joe W.
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Regucalcin plays a multifunctional role in the regulation of cellular function including metabolism, signaling process, and transcriptional activity in maintaining cell homeostasis. Downregulated expression or activity of regucalcin contributes to the development of malignancies in various types of human cancer. Survival of cancer patients, including metastatic prostate cancer, is prolonged with high expression of regucalcin in the tumor tissues. Methods: We elucidate whether extracellular regucalcin conquers the growth, migration, invasion, and adhesion of metastatic human prostate cancer PC-3 and DU-145 cells. Results: Extracellular regucalcin (0.1, 1, and 10 nM) of physiologic levels (1 nM at human serum) inhibited colony formation and growth of PC-3 and DU-145 cells, while it did not have an effect on cell death. Repressive effects of extracellular regucalcin on the proliferation were not exhibited by the presence of inhibitors of the cell cycle, intracellular signaling process, and transcriptional activity, suggesting that the signals of extracellular regucalcin are transmitted to block cell growth. Furthermore, extracellular regucalcin (0.1, 1, or 10 nM) inhibited migration, invasion, and adhesion of PC-3 and DU-145 cells. Mechanistically, extracellular regucalcin (10 nM) decreased the levels of various signaling proteins including Ras, posphatidylinositol-3 kinase, mitogen-activated protein kinase, mechanistic target of rapamycin, RSK-2, caveolin-1, and integrin β1 in PC-3 cells. Discussion and Conclusion: Thus, extracellular regucalcin may play a suppressive role in growth, migration, invasion, and adhesion, which are involved in the metastatic activity of human prostate cancer cells, via affecting diverse signaling processes. This study may provide a new strategy in preventing metastatic prostate cancer with exogenous regucalcin.
O Basquetebol Olímpico, Paralímpico e 3x3: números e curiosidades
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades, Rose Junior Dante de , Brasil Douglas Vinicius Carvalho ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Santos Sileno ,   Comitê Paralímpico do Brasil
Published: March 2022

O Basquetebol é uma das maiores atrações dos Jogos Olímpicos e Paralímpicos da atualidade. Há um desfile de grandes estrelas e suas atuações maravilhosas que, transformadas em números, tornam o esporte ainda mais atrativo. O Basquetebol Olímpico (FIBA), o Basquetebol Paralímpico (basquetebol em cadeiras de rodas) e o Basquete 3x3 (incluído o programa olímpico de Tóquio 2020, disputado em 2021 em virtude da pandemia da COVID 19) trazem relatos e emoções indescritíveis. Disputadas, tanto no masculino quanto no feminino, essas três modalidades do basquetebol remetem a lembranças de equipes e atletas que fizeram história nos Jogos Olímpicos. Nas três modalidades do Basquetebol em Jogos Olímpicos e Paralímpicos foram realizados milhares de jogos no masculino e no feminino. Assim sendo, este livro foi elaborado para quem gosta de estatísticas e números, e é um resgate de dados que muitas vezes se perdem na memória daqueles que "vivem o basquetebol" em seu dia a dia, apresentados sob a visão de cada um dos autores.
Coronary Artery and Cardiac Disease in Patients With Type 2 Myocardial Infarction: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Bularga Anda , Hung John , Daghem Marwa , Stewart Stacey , Taggart Caelan , Wereski Ryan , Singh Trisha , Meah Mohammed N. , Fujisawa Takeshi , Ferry Amy V. , Chiong Justin , Jenkins William S. , Strachan Fiona E. , Semple Scott , van Beek Edwin J.R. , Williams Michelle , Dey Damini , Tuck Chris , Baker Andrew H. , Newby David E. , Dweck Marc R. , Mills Nicholas L. , Chapman Andrew R.
Published: March 2022

Background:

Type 2 myocardial infarction is caused by myocardial oxygen supply-demand imbalance, and its diagnosis is increasingly common with the advent of high-sensitivity cardiac troponin assays. Although this diagnosis is associated with poor outcomes, widespread uncertainty and confusion remain among clinicians as to how to investigate and manage this heterogeneous group of patients with type 2 myocardial infarction.

Methods:

In a prospective cohort study, 8064 consecutive patients with increased cardiac troponin concentrations were screened to identify patients with type 2 myocardial infarction. We excluded patients with frailty or renal or hepatic failure. All study participants underwent coronary (invasive or computed tomography angiography) and cardiac (magnetic resonance or echocardiography) imaging, and the underlying causes of infarction were independently adjudicated. The primary outcome was the prevalence of coronary artery disease.

Results:

In 100 patients with a provisional diagnosis of type 2 myocardial infarction (median age, 65 years [interquartile range, 55–74 years]; 43% women), coronary and cardiac imaging reclassified the diagnosis in 7 patients: type 1 or 4b myocardial infarction in 5 and acute myocardial injury in 2 patients. In those with type 2 myocardial infarction, median cardiac troponin I concentrations were 195 ng/L (interquartile range, 62–760 ng/L) at presentation and 1165 ng/L (interquartile range, 277–3782 ng/L) on repeat testing. The prevalence of coronary artery disease was 68% (63 of 93), which was obstructive in 30% (28 of 93). Infarct-pattern late gadolinium enhancement or regional wall motion abnormalities were observed in 42% (39 of 93), and left ventricular systolic dysfunction was seen in 34% (32 of 93). Only 10 patients had both normal coronary and normal cardiac imaging. Coronary artery disease and left ventricular systolic dysfunction were previously unrecognized in 60% (38 of 63) and 84% (27 of 32), respectively, with only 33% (21 of 63) and 19% (6 of 32) on evidence-based treatments.

Conclusions:

Systematic coronary and cardiac imaging of patients with type 2 myocardial infarction identified coronary artery disease in two-thirds and left ventricular systolic dysfunction in one-third of patients. Unrecognized and untreated coronary or cardiac disease is seen in most patients with type 2 myocardial infarction, presenting opportunities for initiation of evidence-based treatments with major potential to improve clinical outcomes.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT03338504.