bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment and treatment of privacy issues in blockchain systems
Authors: Stach Christoph , Gritti Clémentine , Przytarski Dennis , Mitschang Bernhard
Published: November 2022

The ability to capture and quantify any aspect of daily life via sensors, enabled by the
Internet of Things
(
IoT
), data have become one of the most important resources of the 21
st
century. However, the high value of data also renders data an appealing target for criminals. Two key protection goals when dealing with data are therefore to maintain their permanent
availability
and to ensure their
integrity. Blockchain technology
provides a means of data protection that addresses both of these objectives. On that account, blockchains are becoming increasingly popular for the management of critical data. As blockchains are operated in a
decentralized
manner, they are not only protected against failures, but it is also ensured that neither party has sole control over the managed data. Furthermore, blockchains are
immutable
and
tamper-proof
data stores, whereby data integrity is guaranteed. While these properties are preferable from a data security perspective, they also pose a threat to privacy and confidentiality, as data cannot be concealed, rectified, or deleted once they are added to the blockchain.

In this paper, we therefore investigate which features of the blockchain pose an inherent privacy threat when dealing with personal or confidential data. To this end, we consider to what extent blockchains are in compliance with applicable data protection laws, namely the
European General Data Protection Regulation
(
GDPR
). Based on our identified key issues, we assess which concepts and technical measures can be leveraged to address these issues in order to create a
privacy-by-design blockchain system.
Development of Merkel Cell Carcinoma in a Patient Receiving Rituximab
Authors: Antonios Bana , Karki Ujjwal , Antonios Kais , Ghimire Bipin , Chisti Mohammad Muhsin
Published: November 2022

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, rapidly growing, and aggressive dermatological neoplasm. It is commonly reported in Caucasian ethnicities, and almost 50% of the patients have a concomitant malignancy and are on immunosuppressive chemotherapy. Here, we present a 79-year-old woman with a history of relapsed Stage II, grade III follicular lymphoma, receiving maintenance rituximab infusions. She presented with a raised erythematous papule on her left cheek. An excisional biopsy of the lesion confirmed a diagnosis of Merkel cell carcinoma. After which, she underwent a wider excision with 1-2 cm margins. PET scan did not reveal any FDG-avid uptake lesions that would be concerning for metastatic disease. However, she underwent a sentinel lymph node biopsy which was also negative. Thus, the diagnosis was finalized as Stage I (T1 N0 M0) MCC. There are only two reported cases in literature about the significant progression of Merkel cell carcinoma in patients who coincidentally were receiving rituximab as a part of treatment for another disease. This raises questions for future investigation and research on whether there is a direct association between rituximab use specifically and the rapid growth of MCC.
SRPX2 Promotes Tumor Proliferation and Migration via the FAK Pathway in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Luo Ning , Tan Yanfei , Deng Hong , Wu Weiling , Mei Lang , Huang Xinping , Qin Yu , Zhu Hongbo , Liu Chang
Published: November 2022

Thyroid cancer is the most common form of endocrine cancer around the world, and among which papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most ubiquitous pathological sub-kind. Sushi repeat-containing protein X-linked 2 (SRPX2) was reported to be an independent prognostic factor and significantly overexpressed in advanced PTC patients. However, the biological functions of SRPX2 remain ambiguous in PTC. Here, we explored SRPX2 expression profiles and functions in PTC, finding that SRPX2 expression was remarkably upregulated in PTC tissues and cell lines. Further colony formation, CCK-8, as well as transwell assay, suggested that SRPX2 silencing remarkably dampened PTC growth and migration. Mouse xenograft models were established to find that SRPX2 silence remarkably suppressed PTC proliferation and migration in vivo. Following mechanism studies revealed that SRPX2 realized its functions in the PTC process partially through activating the Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) phosphorylation. In conclusion, this study investigated the functions and mechanisms of the SRPX2/FAK pathway in PTC progression. SRPX2 could act as a prospective biologic signature and therapeutic target molecule for PTC.
Adaptive Numerical Method for Approximation of Traffic Flow Equations
Authors: Najafzadeh Neda , Abbasbandy Saeid , Shivanian Elyas
Published: November 2022

For a long time now, traffic equations have been considered, and different modeling has been done for it. In this article, we work on the macroscopic model, especially the most famous light model. Because these models are among the stiff and shocking problems, theoretical methods do not give good answers to these problems. This paper describes a meshless method to solve the traffic flow equation as a stiff equation. In the proposed method, we also use the exponential time differencing (ETD) method and the exponential time differencing fourth-order Runge–Kutta (ETDRK4). The purpose of this new method is to use methods of the moving least squares (MLS) method and a modified exponential time differencing fourth-order Runge–Kutta scheme. To solve these equations, we use the meshless method MLS to approximate the spatial derivatives and then use method ETDRK4 to obtain approximate solutions. In order to improve the possible instabilities of method ETDRK4, approaches have been stated. The MLS method provided good results for these equations due to its high flexibility and high accuracy and has a moving window and obtains the solution at the shock point without any false oscillations. The technique is described in detail, and a number of computational examples are presented.
Improved Active Contour Snake Model for Hollow Filter Bar Roundness Inspection
Authors: Zhao Kun , Zhang Jianguo , Li Jiangbo , Li Guili
Published: November 2022

Cigarette filter rods are a kind of easily deformed and irregularly shaped parts, and the quality of cigarette filter rods is often measured by the filter rod roundness index, although they are affected by factors such as environment and humidity, which can affect the detection of filter rod roundness and show blurred images. For the detection of blurred filter rod image roundness, an improved active contour snake model algorithm is proposed. The experimental results show that in the analysis of the algorithm iteration number on the model performance, the model performance gradually leveled off at the iteration number of 200. Comparing the PR of the improved algorithm with the traditional snake algorithm with the balloon force snake algorithm, the accuracy and recall rates obtained were 0.803 and 0.798, respectively, which were greater than the other two algorithms; the error of the value of the residual under the improved snake algorithm was always smaller than the other algorithms, which indicated that the convergence effect of the improved snake algorithm on the error of filter bar roundness was better than the other experimental algorithms. The abovementioned results indicate that the improved snake algorithm has high feasibility and effectiveness in the application of filter bar roundness error detection and has a significant value.
Quantitative Assessment Parameters of Peripapillary Regions with Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion by Using Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography
Authors: Yin Shan , Cui Yanyan , Jiao Wanzhen , Zhao Bojun
Published: November 2022

Purpose. To investigate the baseline parameters of peripapillary regions in both eyes of patients with unilateral branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) and their association with best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Methods. Forty‐eight unilateral BRVO patients were enrolled. The 4.5 × 4.5 mm disc angiogram was acquired in the BRVO eyes and fellow eyes using the OCTA. Radial peripapillary capillary (RPC), whole vessel density, and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness in different regions and optic nerve head (ONH) analysis were automatically calculated. The partition includes the whole image, peripapillary, superior hemifield, inferior hemifield, eight equally divided sectors, and nine evenly divided square areas. Results. All vessel density and capillary vessel density in the whole and peripapillary regions of BRVO eyes were significantly lower than those in fellow eyes. The RNFL peripapillary thickness in BRVO eyes was significantly higher than those in fellow eyes. In eyes with supertemporal vein occlusion, all vessel density both in the superior hemifield and in the G12 region was significantly reduced compared with that in the fellow eyes. The capillary vessel density was significantly lower in the superior hemifield, superior temporal (ST), superior nasal (SN), and temporal superior (TS) areas than in the fellow eyes. The RNFL thickness in the NI, IN, TI, and TS sectors was significantly higher than in fellow eyes (all P < 0.05). Conclusions. OCTA provided quantitative information on peripapillary vascular density and RNFL thickness changes in BRVO. Branch retinal vein occlusion not only affects the blood vessel density in the macular area but also decreases the radial peripapillary capillaries. The capillary density is mainly affected in the affected hemifield but not in the unaffected hemifield.
Response of Step-Like Landslide to Pore-Water Pressure under the Action of Typhoon and Rainstorm
Authors: Huang Zhijie , Jian Wenbin , Liu Qingling , Dou Hongqiang
Published: November 2022

Step-like landslides have been attracting more and more attentions because of their displacement with step-like characteristics. At present, there are few studies about the mechanism of a step-like landslide from the perspective of its response to pore-water pressure. This paper considers the Yaoshan landslide disaster mainly affected by rainfall and groundwater in Anxi County, Quanzhou City, Fujian Province, as an example. Based on an in situ monitoring test, we explored the infiltration pathways of typhoons and rainstorms, the main influencing factors, and characteristics of pore-water pressure and determined the relationship between landslide displacement and pore-water pressure in the study area. The results show the following: (1) the pore-water pressure within the slope varies with fluctuation in groundwater level which is influenced by vertical infiltration of rainwater through the slope surface and dominant channels in the study area. (2) The landslide exactly produces a step-like displacement when the pore-water pressure near the slip surface increases from the minimum point to the maximum and then dissipates to the vicinity of the starting point. (3) The correlation between pore-water pressure change and landslide displacement is revealed, and the empirical formula that can characterize slope displacement generated by increment in per unit of pore-water pressure in unit time has been proposed. This study is crucial as it offers important theoretical and practical significance for the analysis of disaster-causing mechanism and monitoring and early warning of the same type of landslide.
Increased Focus on Internal Body Sensations Is Associated with Higher Patient-Perceived Severity of Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Cvelbar Vozelj Maja , Kačar Mark , Bajec Katarina Barbara , Šelb Julij , Koren Ana , Zidarn Nuša , Korošec Peter , Zidarn Mihaela
Published: November 2022

Background: Monitoring allergic rhinitis (AR) severity with objective biomarkers is important for the clinical management of patients as well as for research purposes. The most commonly used tool for the assessment of AR severity is the Total Nasal Symptom Score (TNSS). Objective biomarkers like skin prick test size or specific IgE levels do not correlate with TNSS. Objective: We hypothesize that the psychological factors are the missing link between patient-perceived severity of AR and objective biomarkers. Method: Thirty-nine patients (median age: 34 years; 21 [54%] female) with grass pollen-related AR were enrolled in our study. Patients allergic for perennial allergens and allergens with potentially overlapping seasons including cypress, ash/olive, plane, and nettle families were excluded. Patient-reported outcomes included symptom score, medication scores, combined score, and Juniper Mini Rhinitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (minRQLQ). Psychometric evaluation was performed using 5 different psychological questionnaires that measure 13 different psychological factors. Results: There was a significant correlation between the symptom score and private body consciousness (r = 0.50, p = 0.001) and neuroticism (R = 0.41 and p = 0.01). There was also a statistically significant correlation between the combined score and private body consciousness (r = 0.49 and p = 0.001) and with perceiving and understanding emotions (r = 0.34 and p = 0.04). The miniRQLQ score had a positive correlation with private body consciousness (r = 0.55 and p = 0.002) and observing (r = 0.42 and p = 0.02). Conclusions: Our data suggest that patients who are more aware of internal stimuli, as well as those who are highly self-conscious and somatically concerned tend to experience more severe AR symptoms.
A Preliminary Study of Ultrasound-Guided Microwave Ablation for Nonpuerperal Mastitis Treatment
Authors: Zhou Shengluan , Sheng Chenyi , Hu Ping , Ni Xuejun , Xu Xiaoping , Song Qian , Jiang Xiaoxiao , Zhao Hui , Chen Xiaoyang
Published: November 2022

Introduction: This study investigated the feasibility of ultrasound (US)-guided microwave ablation (MWA) as a treatment for nonpuerperal mastitis (NPM). Methods: Fifty-three patients with NPM diagnosed by biopsy and treated with US-guided MWA at the Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University between September 2020 and February 2022 were classified according to whether they underwent MWA alone (n = 29) or MWA with incision and drainage (n = 24). Patients were followed up by interviews, physical and US examinations, and evaluation of breast skin at 1 week and 1, 2, and 3 months after treatment. Data from these patients were prospectively collected and retrospectively analyzed. Results: The overall mean patient age was 34.42 ± 9.20 years. The groups differed significantly by age, involved quadrants, and the initial maximum diameter of lesions. In the MWA group, the cure rate was 34.48%, and the apparent efficiency rate was 65.52%. In the MWA with incision and drainage, the apparent efficiency rate was 91.66%, and the effective rate was 4.17%. The excellent rate for breast aesthetics in the MWA group was 79.31%, and the good rate was 20.69%. The excellent rate in the MWA with incision and drainage group was 45.83%, the good rate was 41.67%, and the qualified rate was 12.5%. The mean maximum diameter of lesions in the two groups decreased significantly. Conclusion: For NPM with small lesions in a single quadrant, MWA therapy is a direct and effective method. For larger lesions involving two or more quadrants, the combined treatment of MWA with incision and drainage showed significant improvement in a short period. MWA treatment of NPM has importance for further research and clinical applications.
Impact of Omalizumab on Anaphylaxis in Patients Treated for Chronic Urticaria
Authors: Song Xiaoting , Liu Bo , Yu Miao , Liao Shuanglu , Luan Tingting , Li Changling , Zhao Zuotao
Published: November 2022

Background: Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening systemic allergic reaction. Omalizumab (OMA) is an established treatment in chronic urticaria (CU), but experience in anaphylaxis is limited. Objectives: The objective was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of OMA on anaphylaxis in patients with CU who are resistant to antihistamine therapy and have a history of anaphylaxis. Method: Patients with antihistamine-resistant CU and a history of anaphylaxis were eligible. OMA was given 300 mg/150 mg every 4 weeks. Urticaria control test (UCT) scores, the episodes of anaphylaxis, and adverse events were recorded during the OMA treatment. Results: A total of 7 adults were included. After starting OMA, all of them achieved a complete control (UCT = 16) after 3 months of OMA treatment; 6 of them did not suffer any attack of anaphylaxis in the follow-up periods (5 patients for more than 12 months and 1 patient for 4 months). No adverse events were observed. Conclusion: The study indicated the efficacy and safety of OMA for antihistamine-resistant CU patients with a history of anaphylaxis and its potential as a prevention option for anaphylaxis.
Comparative Efficacy and Safety of Biological Agents in the Treatment of Lupus Nephritis: A Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lee Young Ho , Song Gwan Gyu
Published: November 2022

Background: To date, no studies have described randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating the effectiveness and safety of various biological agents used in induction therapy for lupus nephritis. Objectives: We designed this study to assess the relative efficacy and safety of some of these biological agents in patients with lupus nephritis. Method: We collected data from RCTs that examined the efficacy and safety of any biological agents for lupus nephritis and then used these data to complete a Bayesian network meta-analysis to combine the direct and indirect evidence from these studies. Results: We identified nine RCTs evaluating rituximab, abatacept, belimumab, anifrolumab, obinutuzumab, ocrelizumab, and low-dose interleukin-2 (IL-2) across 1,480 patients. Low-dose IL-2, obinutuzumab, rituximab, and belimumab achieved complete remission in a significant proportion of respondents when compared with that in the control. Ranking probability based on the surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) indicated that low-dose IL-2 had the highest probability of achieving complete remission, followed by obinutuzumab, rituximab, belimumab, anifrolumab, abatacept, ocrelizumab, and the control. The risk of serious adverse events (SAE) tended to be lower for low-dose IL-2, rituximab, belimumab, and obinutuzumab than for the control. SUCRA-based ranking indicated that IL-2 had the highest probability of being safe, followed by rituximab, belimumab, obinutuzumab, control, anifrolumab, abatacept, and ocrelizumab. Conclusions: Low-dose IL-2 was the most effective induction treatment for patients with lupus nephritis and had the lowest potential for SAE. Higher complete remission rates and a more favorable safety profile suggest that low-dose IL-2, obinutuzumab, rituximab, and belimumab may be superior to the current control as treatments for lupus nephritis.
Targeted Therapy of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer and Liver Cancer: Functional Nanocarriers for the Delivery of Cisplatin and Tissue Factor Pathway Inhibitor-2
Authors: Ma MingZhong , He JianWei , Gao Bo , Cao JianXun , Li DaMing , Li YongChun , Huang Gang , Zhou Xing
Published: November 2022

Introduction: The aim of the study was to construct folic acid-modified PEGylated paramagnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) co-carrying tissue factor pathway inhibitor-2 (TFPI-2) and cisplatin (CDDP), and to study the molecular-targeting and inhibitory effects of the nanocomposite on non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and liver cancer. Methods: Nanocomposites were prepared using amino-modified iron oxide nanoparticles as carriers, co-loading CDDP and PEGylated FA/TFPI-2. Transmission electron microscopy, UV absorption spectrum, and dynamic light scattering were employed to characterize the morphology, structure, particle size, and zeta potential of the nanocomposite. The phenylenediamine method was used to detect the loading of CDDP, and the CCK-8 assay was used to detect the toxic effect of the nanocomposite on HUVECs, A549, and NCI-H460 cells. In tumor-bearing mice models, the antitumor effects of the nanocomposites were assessed using TUNEL staining (at the molecular level), reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction (at the gene level), hematoxylin and eosin staining (at the cellular level), and the appearance of the mice models. Results: The synthesized FA-MNP/CDDP/TFPI-2 nanocomposite was uniformly dispersed and spherical in shape (approximate diameter: 10 nm). The zeta potential of particles was −9.44 mV, and the average particle size was 25 nm. The loading amount of CDDP was 70.24 μg/mL (23.33%). The nanocomposite was nontoxic to HUVECs, while it showed a favorable inhibitory effect on A549 and NCI-H460 cells. In vivo experiments in mice demonstrated satisfactory imaging properties and therapeutic effects of nanocomposite against liver cancer. Discussion: FA-MNP/CDDP/TFPI-2 may provide insights for the development of new chemotherapeutic drugs.
Fulminant Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus Caused by Long-Term Nivolumab Administration Followed by Nivolumab plus Cabozantinib Combination
Authors: Homma Takamasa , Yoshida Norio , Tanaka Kuniaki , Isemura Masaya , Torii Shota , Kinoshita Teruhisa , Esaki Hideki , Sakakibara Takashi , Takimoto Norio
Published: November 2022

Nivolumab, an immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI), is now used to treat many advanced cancers, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and renal cancer. Immune-related adverse events are characteristic side effects of ICIs. Among them, fulminant type 1 diabetes mellitus is an infrequent but potentially life-threatening and clinically significant concern. Cabozantinib is known as a multikinase inhibitor. In recent years, combination therapy with nivolumab and cabozantinib has begun to be used to treat renal cell carcinoma. A 74-year-old man with no history of diabetes was treated with nivolumab for 5 years for NSCLC, followed by the combination of nivolumab and cabozantinib for clear cell renal cell carcinoma. He was diagnosed with fulminant type 1 diabetes 5 weeks after starting combination therapy, with symptoms of nausea and dry mouth. He was admitted to the intensive care unit and improved clinically with continuous insulin infusion and saline. The involvement of cabozantinib in the development of fulminant type 1 diabetes with long-term nivolumab use, which has not been reported previously, is unknown, but caution may be necessary in terms of glycemic control in combination therapy with nivolumab and cabozantinib.
Serum CC-Chemokine Ligand 2 Is Associated with Visceral Adiposity but Not Fibrosis in Patients with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Ferrari-Cestari Michelle , Okano Satomi , Patel Preya J. , Horsfall Leigh U. , Keshvari Sahar , Hume David A. , Williams Suzanne , Russell Anthony , Powell Elizabeth E. , Irvine Katharine M.
Published: November 2022

Background: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is caused by ectopic fat accumulation in the liver as a consequence of metabolic perturbations associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance. People with NAFLD may develop metabolic and cardiovascular complications and/or liver-related complications, especially fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, associated with high morbidity and mortality. Due to the high and increasing prevalence of NAFLD, there is an urgent need to identify people at risk of developing liver fibrosis and complications. CC-chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) is chemokine that attracts inflammatory monocytes to stressed or injured tissues. Infiltrating inflammatory monocytes and CCL2 are strongly implicated in the pathogenesis of liver disease in animal models; however, evidence in patient cohorts is conflicting. Methods: We investigated associations between circulating CCL2 and clinical parameters, including fibrosis assessed by liver stiffness measurement, in a cohort of 250 NAFLD patients. We also measured fatty acid binding protein 2 (FABP2), a putative biomarker of intestinal permeability in patients with liver disease, since pro-inflammatory gut-derived microbial products may induce inflammatory chemokines such as CCL2. Results: Serum CCL2 levels were weakly associated with liver stiffness, but the association was no longer significant after accounting for age, diabetes, and BMI in a multivariable model. Consistent with this, girth and BMI were the strongest predictors of elevated circulating CCL2. Serum FABP2 was weakly, but significantly, correlated with CCL2, and negatively correlated with estimated glomerular filtration rate. Conclusion: Circulating CCL2 and FABP2 are associated with NAFLD comorbidities but not liver disease progression in patients with NAFLD.
HIV knowledge and its correlation with the Undetectable = Untransmittable slogan in Brazil
Authors: Ferreira Rayane C. , Torres Thiago Silva , Marins Luana Monteiro Spindola , Ceccato Maria das Graças B. , Bezerra Daniel R. B. , Luz Paula M.
Published: November 2022

Knowledge about HIV transmission and prevention is a necessary step for adopting preventive behaviors. We assessed HIV knowledge and its correlation with the perceived accuracy of the “Undetectable = Untransmittable” (U=U) slogan in an online sample with 401 adult Brazilians. Overall, 28% of participants showed high HIV knowledge level. The perceived accuracy of the U=U slogan significantly correlated with HIV knowledge. Younger participants, those reporting lower income or lower education, or who had never tested for HIV showed poorer HIV knowledge. Filling gaps of knowledge among specific populations is urgent in order to increase preventive behaviors and decrease HIV stigma.
Endogenous SOD2 (Superoxide Dismutase) Regulates Platelet-Dependent Thrombin Generation and Thrombosis During Aging
Authors: Sonkar Vijay K. , Eustes Alicia S. , Ahmed Azaj , Jensen Melissa , Solanki Mitali V. , Swamy Jagadish , Kumar Rahul , Fidler Trevor P. , Houtman Jon C.D. , Allen Bryan G. , Spitz Douglas R. , Abel E. Dale , Dayal Sanjana
Published: November 2022

Background:

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) contribute to platelet hyperactivation during aging. Several oxidative pathways and antioxidant enzymes have been implicated; however, their mechanistic contributions during aging remain elusive. We hypothesized that mitochondria are an important source of platelet ROS and that mitochondrial SOD2 (superoxide dismutase) protects against mitochondrial ROS-driven platelet activation and thrombosis during aging.

Methods:

We studied littermates of platelet-specific SOD2-knockout (SOD2
fl/fl
Pf4Cre, pSOD2-KO) and control (SOD2
fl/fl
) mice at young (4–5 months) or old (18–20 months) ages. We examined agonist-induced platelet activation, platelet-dependent thrombin generation potential, and susceptibility to in vivo thrombosis.

Results:

Platelet α
II
b
β3 activation, aggregation, and adhesion were increased to similar extents in aged mice of both genotypes compared with young mice. In contrast, the age-dependent increases in mitochondrial and total cellular ROS, calcium elevation, and phosphatidylserine exposure were augmented in platelets from pSOD2-KO mice compared with control mice. Aged pSOD2-KO mice showed increased platelet-dependent thrombin generation compared with aged control mice. In vivo, aged pSOD2-KO mice exhibited enhanced susceptibility to carotid artery and pulmonary thrombosis compared to aged control mice. Adoptive transfer of platelets from aged pSOD2-KO but not aged control mice increased thrombotic susceptibility in aged host mice, suggesting a prothrombotic effect of platelet pSOD2 deficiency. Treatment with avasopasem manganese (GC4419), a SOD mimetic, decreased platelet mitochondrial pro-oxidants, cellular ROS levels, and inhibited procoagulant platelet formation and arterial thrombosis in aged mice.

Conclusions:

Platelet mitochondrial ROS contributes to age-related thrombosis and endogenous SOD2 protects from platelet-dependent thrombin generation and thrombosis during aging.
Is There a Duty to Read the News?
Authors: Berg Amy
Published: November 2022

It seems as though we have a duty to read the news – that we’re doing something wrong when we refuse to pay attention to what’s going on in the world. But why? I argue that some plausible justifications for a duty to read the news fail to fully explain this duty: it cannot be justified only by reference to its consequences, or as a duty of democratic citizenship, or as a self-regarding duty. It can, however, be justified on the grounds that we have a positive, imperfect duty of respect for strangers, even when our actions don’t affect them directly. Reading the news is a key way, sometimes the only way, that we can respect those who are strangers to us. I close by considering some of the implications and limitations of this duty.
Making Sense of Normalization
Authors: Petrulevich Alexandra
Published: November 2022

This article examines current practices of normalization of names in Norse philology and computational linguistics that to a large extent build on deductive reasoning and external authoritative sources such as grammars, dictionaries and gazetteers. Instead, a survey of manuscript evidence and quantification of name forms at several levels of abstraction is proposed as an alternative inductive principle of normalization. A case study of name-form distributions in a dataset of 6,633 spatial attestations in East Norse literature from the Norse World resource serves as a point of departure for a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of the approach. The comparison between attestations linked to the five most frequent place-names in Old Swedish and Old Danish shows the existence of typical spellings. However, there are still examples of norm negotiations and competitive distributions. Thus, the first inductive step of normalization can be complemented by further processing based on correspondences between phonology and spelling. Finally, stratified normalization of place-names pioneered by Norse World is seen as more versatile compared to traditional methods; the approach has a potential to facilitate both more nuanced philological and linguistic research as well as the further development of named-entity recognition tools.
Frühmittelhochdeutsche stabreimende Wortpaare im Pilatus
Authors: Jeep John M.
Published: November 2022

New insights into the composition date of the Early Middle High German “Pilatus” suggest that the phraseology of the work should now be reassessed in the context of the literature of Early Middle High German. A first-time complete catalogue of the alliterating word-pairs in “Pilatus” is presented with a discussion of each pair in its context and with respect to its history.
Forged with Powerful Words
Authors: Micci Michael
Published: November 2022

The Old Norse-Icelandic literary corpus offers a rich and specific lexicon for spells, charms, magic, and other paranormal events. This article offers an etymological overview of the term atkvæði and a selection of textual occurrences in order to investigate the semantic possibilities of the term beyond the context of witchcraft. The founding hypothesis is that a careful look at atkvæði through various types of texts from different periods of time may highlight its origin in a pre-literate phase of the Old Norse-Icelandic culture where the boundaries between magic, poetry, and law-making were not as clear as the contemporary readers might reckon.
Swertia drassensis, a new species from Drass, Ladakh Himalaya
Authors: BANOO SAKINA , ANZAR AHMAD KHUROO  , AIJAZ HASSAN GANIE
Published: November 2022

Swertia drassensis (Gentianaceae) is described as a new species from Drass, an area located in the Trans-Himalaya region of Ladakh, India. This new species resembles in few characters to its congeneric Swertia petiolata, but clearly differs from it in possessing a pair of fused nectaries, fimbriae characteristically absent, margin of sepals slightly membranous, greenish-yellow, ovoid-ellipsoid capsule and winged seeds. Photo-illustrations and comparison of diagnostic characters of the new species with other congeneric species are provided to facilitate field identification.
Synopsis of the terrestrial Reptiles of Equatorial Guinea
Authors: SÁNCHEZ-VIALAS ALBERTO , CALVO-REVUELTA MARTA , RIVA IGNACIO DE LA
Published: November 2022

We present a comprehensive catalogue of the reptiles of Equatorial Guinea, consisting of 118 species belonging to 67 genera and 22 families. There are two species of Crocodylia, ten of Testudines and 106 of Squamata; this last taxon is represented by 62 species of snakes, two amphisbaenians and 42 lizards. Of these 118 species, seven are present only in Annobon, seven only in Bioko, 47 only in Río Muni, 53 occur both in Bioko and Río Muni (or Bioko, Río Muni and other islands), and four are sea turtles. Despite its high diversity, the level of endemism of Bioko is relatively low, with only four endemic species out of the 60 species reported for the island. In contrast, despite its low diversity, Annobon has the highest endemicity level, with five endemic species (and two introduced). No endemic species are known for the rest of the regions of Equatorial Guinea, which contain 100 species. We reveal several new country and species records, and point to some pending taxonomic questions to be addressed. Among the new species records, we highlight the presence of Cyclanorbis elegans, which represents the most meridional known population of the genus. Additional species are expected to be found in Equatorial Guinea as further field and taxonomic work is developed.
Seismic design of rectangular/square columns in SDOF systems based on their damage performance
Authors: Wang Yukui , Liu Zhefeng , Zhang Dan , Hu Zhangqi , Yu Dong
Published: November 2022

The quantitative relationship between the energy dissipation capacity of RC members and displacement deformation, cumulative energy dissipation and structural design parameters were established by the research group in the early stage, and then the damage index based on energy dissipation capacity and performance index limits were proposed. Based on the existing research, the seismic design method of RC square/rectangular column members for SDOF systems based on damage performance is proposed, and the method is introduced by an example. It is found that the seismic design method establishes a quantitative relationship between the structural design parameters and seismic parameters, which is convenient to guide the structural design. The increase in the ratio of transverse reinforcement can reduce the damage to RC column members, but when the ratio of transverse reinforcement exceeds a certain threshold value, the damage reduction effect is not obvious. The increase of the earthquake duration can aggravate the development of the damage to the RC column members, and the increasing effect is first fast and then slow. This seismic design method can make up for the deficiency that the duration effect is not considered in the current seismic code.
Marketization and Public Service Motivation: Cross-Country Evidence of a Deleterious Effect
Authors: Campbell Jesse W.
Published: November 2022

The introduction of market-based competition into the public service delivery process may incentivize desirable bureaucratic behaviors but may also have unintended effects. Using a sample of public servants from 48 countries and cross-country estimates of public service marketization, this study provides evidence of a competition-based erosion of public service motivation (PSM). Second, using three different estimates of external market competitiveness, the analysis shows that the negative effect of marketization on PSM strengthens as external competitiveness intensifies. This study extends the motivational crowding literature by linking the hypothesis to contextual factors and testing the theory in a cross-national setting.
Increasing the efficiency of perovskite solar cells using Cs4CuSb2Cl12 quantum dots as an interface layer: A numerical study
Authors: Çadirci Musa , Bakay Melahat Sevgül
Published: November 2022

Recently, the advantages of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) and a significant increase in power conversion efficiency (PCE) have played an essential role in the preference for these materials. Although different methods are used to increase PCE and reduce losses at the interfaces in PSCs, placing a new layer between the absorber/hole transfer layer (HTL) or between the absorber/electron transfer layer (ETL) stands out as one of the most common methods. In this study, considering stability, sustainability, mobility, and non-toxicity, Cs4CuSb2Cl12 (CCSC) perovskite quantum dots (PQDs) were preferred as the interface layer between absorber and HTL in CsPbI3 and formamidinium lead iodide (FAPI)-based PSC devices. While SnO2, Cu2O, and nickel were used as ETL, HTL, and back contact, respectively, CsPbI3 and FAPI perovskites were utilized as absorber materials separately. Simulations were conducted on Solar Cell Capacitance Simulator (SCAPS-1D) software and the current density (J) and voltage characteristics were compared. By choosing different interface layer thicknesses, different radiative recombination coefficients (RRCs), and different defect sites, the cell efficiency of the PQD interlayer solar cells were simulated. Simulations were also carried out using different series resistance (Rs) and different shunt resistance (Rsh) values to show the effect of parasitic losses on cell efficiency, and it was observed that device efficiency increased where Rs was low and Rsh was high. In addition, in FAPI-based structure, with the addition of a PQD layer between the absorber and HTL, it was observed that the short circuit current density increased from 17.6 mA/cm2 to 25.67 mA/cm2, while the cell efficiency increased by 30%. Furthermore, according to the results obtained using CsPbI3 as an absorber, adding a PQD layer between CsPbI3 and HTL increased the short circuit current density from 17.8 mA/cm2 to 20.7 mA/cm2 and cell efficiency by 16%. To sum up, these simulation results demonstrate that inserting a PQD layer between the absorber and HTL significantly enhances the efficiency and charge carrier capacity of solar cells.
An analysis of the elastic-plastic seismic response of inner and outer cable-supported latticed shell structures
Authors: Ma Guangying , Yao Yunlong , Zhou Guangen , Bao Xiaocheng
Published: November 2022

This paper studies the elastic-plastic seismic response of 12 inner and outer cable-supported latticed shell structures under fortification intensity and rare earthquakes. The influencing factors of the 12 models were analyzed. These included span, initial pretension, bottom structure form, connection condition of support, rise-span ratio, and inner cable-supported latticed shell span. Based on the calculation results, we summarize the plastic region of the top latticed shell and the plastic development extent under 7-degree and 8-degree fortification intensity and rare earthquakes, the post-seismic cable force changes, and the development characteristics and distribution rules of residual deformation of top latticed shell. Our investigation indicates that the span, bottom structure form, and connection condition of the support are most sensitive to the elastic-plastic response of the inner and outer cable-supported latticed shell. A strong earthquake can cause a loss of pretension, which primarily happens at inner looped cables and inner inclined cables of the inner cable-supported latticed shell. Cable force change is more sensitive to the asymmetric bottom structure, the latticed shell with a high rise-span ratio, and the span of the inner cable-supported latticed shell. The inner and outer cable-supported latticed shell model loses less cable force after a strong earthquake, and the post-seismic loss ratio is less than 10%, even under the impact of a severe, 9-degree earthquake.
Femorally inserted central catheters with exit site at mid-thigh: A low risk alternative for central venous catheterization
Authors: Elli Stefano , Cannizzo Luigi , Giannini Luciano , Romanato Francesca , Trimarco Concetta , Pessina Marco , Lucchini Alberto , Foti Giuseppe , Rondelli Egle
Published: November 2022

Background:

Femorally inserted central catheters are increasingly used, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, also thanks to widespread of tunneling techniques that allow the exit site to be moved away from the groin.

Methods:

In this retrospective observational study, femorally inserted catheters, with exit site at mid-thigh and the tip in Inferior vena cava or in Inferior vena cava at the junction with right atrium, have been observed and complications have been analyzed. All catheters were inserted by trained Nurses of a tertiary hospital Vascular Access Team.

Results:

In 142 catheters (126 inserted via common femoral vein and 16 inserted via superficial femoral vein) and 3060 catheter days, we observed an infection rate of 1.3 events/1000 catheter days (all of them in oncologic patients and up to 30 days of catheterization), 2 cases of thrombotic events (1.41%) and 17 cases of accidental removal (11.97%). Other rare complications, as primary malposition, tip migration, arterial pseudoaneurysm, have been recorded. The average length of catheters inserted, from the exit site to the tip, was 47.6 ± 2.4 cm.

Conclusion:

The attention to the correct position of the tip, the exit site at mid-thigh and the new techniques during insertion make these femoral catheters as safe as other central vascular access devices. For this kind of central access device, a catheter at least 50 cm long is needed.
Psychometric and cross-cultural generalizability outcomes of the Chinese version of the Kids-Palatable Eating Motives Scale (K-PEMS-C)
Authors: Wang Dan , Boggiano Mary M , Huang Ke , Hu Yuzheng , Fu Junfen
Published: November 2022

Overeating for non-homeostatic needs contributes to childhood obesity. However, validated measures or eating motives and cross-cultural comparisons are limited. This study aimed to validate the Kids-Palatable Eating Motives Scale (K-PEMS) and its association with body mass index z score (BMIz) in China, and further assess its generalization across Chinese and American youth. Data were from participants aged 8–18 years from Hangzhou, China ( n = 426) and Birmingham, AL, U.S ( n = 73). The K-PEMS had sound reliability and validation (Cronbach’s α = 0.920 and all factor loadings >0.50) in the Chinese sample. Multi-group nested models CFAs showed that the ∆CFI of model comparisons of measurement weights and structural covariance, variance, and means were ⩽0.01, and ∆TLI of measurement intercepts ⩽0.05. Linear regressions revealed that frequency of consuming palatable foods and drinks for Coping, Reward Enhancement, and Conformity, but not Social motives, were positively associated with BMIz. The K-PEMS had good cross-cultural generalization and could be useful in treating obesity by identifying specific motives for consuming excessive calories.
Stroke Survivor Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet
Authors: Bailey Ryan R.
Published: November 2022

Objective:

To estimate adherence to the Mediterranean diet in a sample of chronic community-dwelling stroke survivors.

Design:

Cross-sectional survey.

Participants:

Convenience sample of 63 chronic (≥6 months) community-dwelling stroke survivors.

Main Outcome Measure:

MedDiet Score, a self-report screening tool that measures adherence to the Mediterranean diet based on consumption of 11 dietary components (ie, whole grains, potatoes, fruits, vegetables, legumes and nuts, fish and shellfish, red meat products and processed meat, poultry, full fat dairy, olive oil, and alcohol beverages), measured using a 6-point Likert scale (0 = low adherence, 5 = high adherence, max score = 55).

Results:

The mean MedDiet score was 27.2 ± 4.7; males scored higher than females (28.5 ± 4.9 vs 26.0 ± 4.2, P = .031). Participants reported more adherence for red meat products and processed meat, poultry, and full fat dairy and less adherence for whole grains, potatoes, fruits, vegetables, fish and shellfish, and alcoholic beverages.

Conclusions:

Adherence to the Mediterranean diet, a healthy dietary pattern recommended for secondary stroke prevention, was moderate in this sample of stroke survivors, and results were consistent with previous research on quality of dietary intake. Findings indicate the need for effective dietary interventions for stroke survivors to improve cardiometabolic health and reduce recurrent stroke risk.
Morphological specificity analysis of an image-based 3D model of airway filling in a difficult airway
Authors: Chen Wendong , Ma Li , Shao Jianlin , Bi Chun , Xie Yuchen , Zhao Shuangyan
Published: November 2022

Background

The purpose of this study was to analyze position-specific morphological changes of the upper airway and to further assess the impact of these changes in difficult airway during intubation.

Methods

This observational comparative study included two groups (n = 20 patients/group): Group A had normal airway and Group B had difficult airway. Data obtained from two-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging were imported to Mimics V20.0 software for processing. We then reconstructed three-dimensional models of upper airway filling in patients in the supine and maximum extension position based on the imaging data. Those models were projected on coronal, sagittal, and horizontal planes to investigate multiple morphological features. We measured the surface area, radial length, and corner angle of the projected areas.

Results

Group A had larger upper airway filling volumes compared to Group B The volumes for the supine position were 6,323.83 ± 156.06 mm3 for Group A and 5,336.22 ± 316.13 mm3 for Group B (p = 0.003). The volumes the maximum extension position were 9,186.58 ± 512.61 mm3 for Group A and 6,735.46 ± 794.63 mm3 for Group B (p = 0.003). Airway volume increased in the upper airway filling model as the body position varied from the supine to maximum extension position (Group A: volume increase 2,953.75 ± 524.6 mm3, rate of change 31%; Group B: volume increase 1,632.89 ± 662.66 mm3, rate of change 25%; p = 0.052).

Conclusion

The three-dimensional reconstruction model developed in this study was used to digitally quantify morphological features of a difficult airway and could be used as a novel airway management assessment tool.