bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eugenol-Preconditioned Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Promote Antioxidant Capacity of Tendon Stem Cells In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Li Xiangze , Su Zhan , Shen Kaiying , Wang Qi , Xu Chencheng , Wang Fuqiang , Zhang Yuchi , Jiang Dapeng
Published: February 2022

Tendon stem cells (TSCs) are often exposed to oxidative stress at tendon injury sites, which impairs their physiological effect as well as therapeutic application. Recently, extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) were shown to mediate cell protection and survival under stress conditions. The function of BMSC-EVs may be affected by pretreatment with various factors such as eugenol (EUG)—a powerful antioxidant. In our previous study, we found that H2O2 significantly impaired TSC proliferation and tenogenic differentiation capabilities. Apoptosis and intracellular ROS accumulation in TSCs were induced by H2O2. However, such H2O2-induced damage was prevented by treatment with EUG-BMSC-EVs. Furthermore, EUG-BMSC-EVs activated the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway to counteract H2O2-induced damage in TSCs. In a rat patellar tendon injury model, the ROS level was significantly higher than that in the normal tendon and TSCs not pretreated showed a poor therapeutic effect. However, EUG-BMSC-EV-pretreated TSCs significantly improved tenogenesis and matrix regeneration during tendon healing. Additionally, the EUG-BMSC-EV group had a significantly improved fiber arrangement. Overall, EUG-BMSC-EVs protected TSCs against oxidative stress and enhanced their functions in tendon injury. These findings provide a basis for potential clinical use of EUG-BMSC-EVs as a new therapeutic vehicle to facilitate TSC therapies for tendon regeneration.
Study on the Intervention Effect of Music on Insomnia of College Students
Authors: Dos Santos Luis Miguel
Published: February 2022

In this study, we have analyzed the intervention effect of music on insomnia of college students. For this purpose, we have selected college students of grade 2019 facing insomnia in our school and randomly selected 96 of them as research objects after the informed consent of the students. 96 subjects were randomly divided into two groups, observation group and control group, 48 cases in each group. No music intervention was applied to the control group, while music intervention was applied to the observation group. After intervention, all college students in the observation group and the control group were given PSQI scale and filled it out. The score was collected on the spot and counted immediately to evaluate the intervention effect of music on college students’ insomnia. After music intervention, the score of each dimension of PSQI showed that the observation group was significantly better than the control group in falling asleep time, quality of sleep, hypnotic drugs, sleep efficiency, sleep disorders, and daytime dysfunction, and the results were statistically significant (

P
<
0.05

). There was a statistically significant difference in insomnia between the two groups (

P
<
0.05

), and the intervention efficacy of insomnia in the observation group was better than that in the control group. The observation group had a higher satisfaction with the insomnia intervention effect, and the total satisfaction was 89.58%. The control group had low satisfaction with the intervention effect of insomnia, the total satisfaction was 52.08%, and the difference was statistically significant (

P
<
0.05

). Through the application of the music intervention method, the sleep quality of college students had been improved, and the insomnia intervention effect was obvious; therefore, music intervention for college students’ insomnia had a good intervention effect and had the value of promotion.
A New Locating Method of Break Faults in an Active Distribution Network Based on Distributed Generator Monitoring
Authors: Xiao Yang , Ouyang Jinxin , Xiong Xiaofu
Published: February 2022

Traditional distribution networks are transforming into active distribution networks (ADNs) with the advancement of distributed generators (DGs). Break faults that lead to voltage and current imbalances and fluctuations threat the safety of sensitive power electronic equipment in ADNs. However, locating break faults in ADNs remains a challenge under the influence of DG fault polymorphism. This paper proposes a new method to locate break faults by monitoring information of DG current based on the observability of ADNs. The DG equivalent model is established based on the DG output characteristics under the presence of a single-phase break fault. The characteristics of the fault current contributed by DG are analyzed. An identification method of break faults is proposed based on the variations in DG current. Thus, a fault-locating matrix algorithm is proposed combined with current information and location information of DGs. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed method can locate break faults quickly and accurately. The method is not affected by topology and changes of DG output and load.
Research on Robot Fuzzy Neural Network Motion System Based on Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Hu Jie
Published: February 2022

An intelligent controller based on a self-learning interval type-II fuzzy neural network is proposed to make the motion controller of the industrial intelligent robot with good adaptability. This controller has a parallel structure and contains an interval type-II fuzzy neural network and a conventional PD controller. For the design of the interval type-II fuzzy neural network, the interval type-II fuzzy set is established using the slave design method. In the design process of the interval type-II fuzzy set of the front piece, a dual sequence symmetric trapezoidal subordinate function arrangement method is proposed, which makes the self-learning law and stability analysis of the system in an analytic form and facilitates the implementation of the algorithm in hardware. In the design of the neural network self-learning law, a parametric self-learning algorithm based on sliding mode control theory is established to adjust the structural parameters of the interval type-II fuzzy neural network online, and the stability of the system is proved by using Lyapunov’s stability theorem. Three sets of validation simulation experiments are given in conjunction with the trajectory tracking problem of the Delta parallel robot. The simulation results show that, in the presence of system uncertainty, the intelligent controller based on interval self-learning interval type-II fuzzy neural network can significantly improve the trajectory tracking accuracy and robustness of the system and make the control system highly adaptable to the environment. Experiments of intelligent control system based on self-learning interval type-II fuzzy neural network and experiments of reusable particle swarm optimal motion planning method are designed, and the effectiveness of the intelligent control system and motion planning method is verified on the experimental platform. The experimental results show that the intelligent control system based on the self-learning interval type-II fuzzy neural network can effectively improve the accuracy and stability of robot trajectory tracking control, and the reusable particle swarm optimal motion planning method can quickly solve the robot motion planning problem with complex constraints online.
Data Collection Strategy Based on OSELM and Gray Wolf Optimization Algorithm for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Bai Yang , Cao Li , Wang Shuxin , Ding Haihua , Yue Yinggao
Published: February 2022

In order to effectively reduce the energy consumption, improve the efficiency of data collection in HWSNs, and prolong the lifetime of the overall network, the clustering method is one of the most effective methods in the data collection methods for HWSNs. The data collection strategy of HWSNs based on the clustering method mainly includes three stages: (1) selecting the appropriate cluster head, (2) forming between clusters, and (3) transferring data between clusters. Among them, the selection of the cluster heads in the first stage. The optimal number of cluster heads in the formation of clusters in the second stage is the core and key to the clustering data collection of HWSNs. In the stage of cluster head selection, a data collection strategy for HWSNs based on the clustering method is proposed. Sink establishes an extreme learning machine neural network model. The cluster member nodes select cluster heads based on the remaining energy of the sensor node, the number of the neighbor node, and the distance to the sink. The best cluster head node is selected through the adaptive learning of the online sequence extreme learning machine. Through comprehensive consideration of various factors to complete the clustering process, the gray wolf algorithm is used to optimize the number of clusters, balance the effect of clustering, and improve the efficiency of data collection while reducing energy consumption. An energy efficient and reliable clustering data collection strategy for HWSNs based on the online sequence extreme learning machine and the gray wolf optimization algorithm is proposed in this paper. The simulation results show that the proposed algorithm not only significantly improves the efficiency of the data collection and reduces energy consumption but also comprehensively improves the reliability of the network and prolongs the network’s lifetime.
Feasibility of Individual Carotenoid Quantification in Mixtures Using UV-Vis Spectrophotometry with Multivariate Curve Resolution Alternating Least Squares (MCR-ALS)
Authors: Achir Nawel , Servent Adrien , Soto Marvin , Dhuique-Mayer Claudie
Published: February 2022

A fast and low-cost analytical method to determine the concentrations of carotenoids (β-carotene, lutein, and lycopene) from mixed standard solutions or from fruit extracts (kiwi fruits, tomato paste, pink grapefruit juice, kiwi-pineapple smoothie, and apricot nectar) was tested. The methodology was based on UV-Vis spectrophotometry and Multivariate Curve Resolution-Alternating Least Squares (MCR-ALS). Results showed that relative concentrations of β-carotene, lutein, and lycopene in solvent were successfully determined by this technique with an error inferior to 6%. In real extracts, the procedure succeeded well in identifying the major carotenoid type of the fruit samples but also a more complex profile of a fruit mixture. The results also showed that accuracy of carotenoids determination by UV-Vis spectrophotometry-MCR-ALS in fruit extracts was conditioned by their spectral characteristics (III/II ratios and λmax), their relative proportion, and the extract purity.
Application of Smart Fiber Optic Sensor Technology in Feature Extraction, Recognition, and Detection
Authors: Gao Yuxiang , Cai Qixin
Published: February 2022

To improve the signal recognition effect of the security system, this paper studies the security system based on intelligent Fiber Optic Sensor (FOS) technology. Firstly, the research background of intelligent FOS is introduced, and its current situation in feature extraction, recognition, and detection is introduced. Secondly, the double Mach–Zehnder (M-Z) Optical Fiber- (OF-) based interferometer model is implemented, and the Wavelet Analysis (WA) theory is introduced to analyze the characteristic threshold and Frequency (F) characteristics of intrusion signal. Finally, the distributed intelligent FOS-based perimeter security system is constructed, and an empirical study is conducted to verify its performance. The results show that the intruder knocking-induced signal F, intruder climbing-induced signal F, noiseless environment-induced signal F, and rainy environment-induced signal F are 0–250 kHz, 0–25 kHz, 0–1.5 kHz, and 0–3.5 kHz, respectively; in all the four cases, excellent results have been obtained after wavelet threshold denoising. Meanwhile, the received signal is decomposed into seven layers through multiscale WA theory. The signal feature classification is based on WA and takes variance as the representation, and the clear classification results are obtained; when the False Alarm Rate (FAR) = 1%, the detection probability of the proposed system is about 99%, while the detection probability of the traditional system is about 3%. The reference arm and sensing arm of the distributed OF-based perimeter security system can be laid in the same optical cable. Therefore, the designed wavelet threshold filtering method is feasible, and the detection probability of the designed WA-based system is higher than that of the traditional security system. The research content provides a reference for the development of intelligent FOS technology in the field of security.
Role of Oxidative Stress in Obese and Nonobese PCOS Patients
Authors: Uçkan Kazım , Demir Halit , Turan Kasım , Sarıkaya Eren , Demir Canan
Published: February 2022

Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the oxidant-antioxidant status, endothelial dysfunction, lipid metabolism, and metabolic syndrome risk in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Materials and Methods. Forty-five obese (BMI >30 kg/m2) woman diagnosed with PCOS in the study, forty-five nonobese (BMI <30 kg/m2) PCOS diagnosis working groups, and forty-nine healthy control groups were created with patients. Serum malondialdehyde (MDA) levels with antioxidant activities, such as SOD, GSH, GPx, and CAT activities, were measured by spectrophotometry. Results. There was a statistically significant difference in the mean serum MDA level in the obese PCOS group compared to the nonobese group and the control group (

p

 < 0.001). When the antioxidant parameters, such as SOD, GPx, GSH, and CAT, were compared with the healthy control group, nonobese, and obese PCOS groups, the difference between the groups was statistically significant (

p

 < 0.001). A positive correlation was observed between MDA and BMI, triglyceride, LDL, SBP, DBP, and HOMA-IR in the PCOS patient group. Conclusion. Oxidative stress and decreased antioxidant parameters in PCOS patients were correlated with hyperinsulinemia, hypertension, and dyslipidemia findings, and we think that this oxidative stress condition may contribute to metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular diseases in PCOS patients.
Adaptive Rat Swarm Optimization for Optimum Tuning of SVC and PSS in a Power System
Authors: Toolabi Moghadam Ali , Aghahadi Morteza , Eslami Mahdiyeh , Rashidi Shima , Arandian Behdad , Nikolovski Srete
Published: February 2022

This paper presents a new approach for the coordinated design of a power system stabilizer- (PSS-) and static VAR compensator- (SVC-) based stabilizer. For this purpose, the design problem is considered as an optimization problem, while the decision variables are the controllers’ parameters. This paper proposes an effective optimization algorithm based on a rat swarm optimizer, namely, adaptive rat swarm optimization (ARSO), for solving complex optimization problems as well as coordinated design of controllers. In the proposed ARSO, instead of a random initial population, the algorithm starts the search process with fitter solutions using the concept of the opposite number. In addition, in each iteration of the optimization, the new algorithm replaces the worst solution with its opposite or a random part of the best solution to avoid getting trapped in local optima and increase the global search ability of the algorithm. The performance of the new ARSO is investigated using a set of benchmark test functions, and the results are compared with those of the standard RSO and some other methods from the literature. In addition, a case study from the literature is considered to evaluate the efficiency of the proposed ARSO for coordinated design of controllers in a power system. PSSs and additional SVC controllers are being considered to demonstrate the feasibility of the new technique. The numerical investigations show that the new approach may provide better optimal damping and outperform previous methods.
The Traditional Chinese Medicine “Hu-Qian-Wan” Attenuates Osteoarthritis-Induced Signs and Symptoms in an Experimental Rat Model of Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Hou Pu-Wei , Liu Shan-Chi , Tsay Gregory J. , Tang Chih-Hsin , Chang Hen-Hong
Published: February 2022

Background. Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a chronic, low-grade inflammatory disease that affects knee joints and causes functional disability in the elderly. KOA is typically treated with oral NSAIDs, which are commonly associated with gastrointestinal side effects or cardiovascular complications. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is widely used by patients with KOA in Taiwan; the Hu-Qian-Wan (HQW) formula is typically prescribed. We investigated the therapeutic role of a modified version of the HQW decoction in Sprague-Dawley rats with KOA induced by anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT) of the right knee. Materials and Methods. Thirty rats were randomly assigned to five groups (six animals each): arthrotomy alone (sham surgery, controls), ACLT only, ACLT + low-dose (1,000 mg/kg) HQW, ACLT + high-dose (3,000 mg/kg) HQW, and ACLT + celecoxib (30 mg/kg). All study groups underwent weight-bearing behavioral testing, micro-computed tomography (CT), and histological examinations of the knee joint cartilage, as well as immunohistochemical analyses of levels of interleukin (IL) 1β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α expression in articular cartilage. Results. At 6 weeks, compared with ACLT group only, ACLT rats administered high-dose HQW or celecoxib exhibited the fewest weight-bearing deficits, the greatest improvements from baseline in articular cartilage architecture, and the lowest amounts of TNF-α and IL-1β staining in cartilage and synovial sections (all values were significant compared with the ACLT-only group). The only values that were significantly increased by ACLT + low-dose HQW compared with ACLT alone were bone mineral density and trabecular numbers. Conclusion. Our findings suggest that high-dose HQW improves weight-bearing asymmetry, decreases bone loss, and reduces levels of TNF-α and IL-1β in the affected joint in ACLT-induced KOA rats. More evidence is needed to support our findings.
IoT System for the Continuous Electrical and Environmental Monitoring into Mexican Social Housing Evaluated under Tropical Climate Conditions
Authors: Mendez-Monroy P. E. , Cruz May E. , Jiménez Torres M. , Gómez Hernández J. L. , Canto Romero M. , Sanchez Dominguez I. , May Tzuc O. , Bassam A.
Published: February 2022

This work presented the design, development, and implementation of a low-cost IoT system for real-time monitoring of electrical consumption and environment parameters inside social housing. The IoT monitoring system is composed of a set of remote measurement nodes that wirelessly sense and transmit records of the air temperature and relative humidity inside the house as well as the voltage, current, and power consumed by several electrical devices. A server coordinator composed of a Raspberry Pi was used for the interaction with the sensors through the Message Queue Telemetry Transport (MQTT) protocol and allowed the measured data packaging, fragmentation, transfer, storage, and cloud upload for remote multiuser visualization. The system was experimentally evaluated in an inhabited single-story house under tropical climate conditions. Operation tests indicate a successful performance of the protocols implemented for remote visualization and cloud storage. Moreover, an analysis of measured data allows the feasibility of identifying the occupants’ energy consumption patterns and their relationship with the search for comfortable environmental conditions. Thus, the proposed friendly framework is a promising alternative to energy management. Its implementation in embedded Linux-based systems provides the flexibility to integrate control strategies based on artificial intelligence.
Identification of a Five‐Gene Panel to Assess Prognosis for Gastric Cancer
Authors: Li Shuxin , Mao Qianqian , Zhang Zixuan , Wang Yuqi , Chen Duoxuan , Chen Zhenwen , Lu Jianyi
Published: February 2022

Background and Objective. Gastric cancer (GC) is the fifth most frequently diagnosed cancer and the third leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Recurrence and metastasis are very common in advanced gastric cancer and indicate poor prognosis. We attempted to establish a recurrence‐associated gene panel to predict the prognosis for gastric cancer. Methods. Two datasets were used as training and validation cohorts to establish the predictive model. We used three types of screening criteria: background analysis, pathway analysis, and functional analysis provided by the cBioportal website. Fisher’s exact test and multivariable logistic regression were performed to screen out related genes. Furthermore, we performed receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and Kaplan–Meier curve analyses to evaluate the correlation between the selected genes and overall survival. Result. We screened five genes (KNL1, NRXN1, C6, CCDC169‐SOHLH2, and TTN) that were highly related to recurrence of GC. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was 0.813, which was much higher than that of the baseline model (AUC = 0.699). This result suggested that the mutation of five selected genes had a significant effect on the prediction of recurrence compared with other factors (age, stages, history, etc.). Furthermore, the Kaplan‐Meier estimator also revealed that the mutation of five genes positively correlated with patient survival. Conclusions. The patients who have mutations in these five genes may experience longer survival than those who do not have mutations. This five‐gene panel will likely be a practical tool for prognostic evaluation and will provide another possible way for clinicians to determine therapy.
Endodontic Emergencies Encountered in a Tertiary Dental Hospital during the Periods of Prelockdown, Lockdown, and Sequential Unlock Phases of the First Wave of COVID-19 in Ahmedabad City, India
Authors: Langaliya Akshayraj , Patel Dolly , Shah Aarshvi , Kumbhar Aravind , Shah Jinali , Shah Sharan , Bhatt Ishan , Dayala Dhruvisha , Gill Rajmeet Singh , Patel Saloni , Patel Yatra , Shah Mandar , Shah Mihika , Patel Rushvi , Agarwal Aashvi , Panchal Drashti , Vachhani Vishwani
Published: February 2022

Introduction. With the worldwide spread of SARS-CoV-2 infection, temporary suspension of all the elective dental procedures and an urgent shift to nonaerosol producing dental treatments were observed. This study provides a detailed description of emergency treatments provided in the Department of Endodontics at a tertiary healthcare centre during the period of prelockdown, lockdown, and sequential unlocking from March 1, 2020, to October 31, 2020. Methods. Access to General and Departmental OPD data along with treatment records was obtained and was segregated based on age, sex, and treatments performed. Treatments were divided into aerosol generating procedures (AGPs) and non-AGPs and further subdivided into palliative treatment (PT), pulp capping (PC), incision and drainage (ID), temporary filling (TF), pulpectomy (PU), and pulpotomy (PO). Data was analysed and subjected to chi-square test. Results. A total of 15052 patients approached general OPD during the period of 8 months of which 5698 (37.86%) were endodontic in origin and treatments offered were PT 858 (15.05%), PO 1560 (27.37%), PU 2018 (35.42%), TF 500 (8.78%), ID 164 (2.88%), and PC 598 (10.94%). Also, more females (57.28% (3264/5698)) visited the department as compared to males (42.72% (2434/5698)). Conclusion. The pandemic had turned the tables on over the people around the world, and it has become extremely necessary to rule out the emergencies needed to treat the patients accordingly shifting more towards non-AGPs compared to AGPs among the various age groups of the society.
COVID-19 Vaccination Intention and Vaccine Hesitancy among Patients with Autoimmune and Autoinflammatory Rheumatological Diseases: A Survey
Authors: Tharwat Samar , Abdelsalam Haidy Adel , Abdelsalam Adel , Nassar Mohammed Kamal
Published: February 2022

Background. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine hesitancy or refusal has arisen as a major global public health concern. The aim of this study was to address the attitudes of patients with autoimmune and autoinflammatory rheumatological diseases (AIIRDs) about COVID-19 vaccination and investigate the factors that influence their decision. Methods. This interview-based cross-sectional study was carried out on AIIRD patients at the period between 15 August and 15 September 2021. The questionnaire included socioeconomic data, intention to receive COVID-19 vaccine, AIIRD subtype, disease duration, associated comorbidities, history of COVID-19, beliefs and attitudes towards COVID-19, and conventional vaccination in general and COVID-19 vaccine in particular, in addition to COVID-19 vaccination status. Results. A total of 206 AIIRD patients were included, with a mean age of 37.61 years (SD = 10.67), and 84% were females. The percentage of vaccine acceptance was 70.39%, while only 16.02% were hesitant and 13.59% were resistant to COVID-19 vaccination. About one-fourth of patients reported getting infected with COVID-19. Of them, 15.1% were hospitalized and 5.7% were admitted at the intensive care unit (ICU). Most of the AIIRD patients (77.2%) believed that they are at a higher risk of getting COVID-19. The main motivation for vaccine acceptance was the fear of being infected (41.4%). About 40% of vaccine nonacceptants fear about the serious side effects of COVID-19 vaccine. Conclusion. There is a high acceptability rate of COVID-19 vaccination among AIIRD patients. Public health workers and policymakers must emphasize efficient COVID-19 vaccine acceptance messaging for all AIIRD patients.
A Ferroptosis-Related lncRNA Model to Enhance the Predicted Value of Cervical Cancer
Authors: Jiang Zhaojing , Li Jingyu , Feng Wenqing , Sun Yujie , Bu Junguo
Published: February 2022

Background. Cervical cancer (CC) is a common gynecological malignant tumor. Ferroptosis is a new type of programmed cell death, which plays a crucial part in cancer. However, current knowledge regarding ferroptosis-related long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in CC is still limited. Therefore, our aim is to identify ferroptosis-related lncRNAs, build a steady prediction model, and improve the prediction value of CC. Methods. We obtained RNA expression and ferroptosis-related gene data of female CC patients from TCGA and FerrDb databases, respectively. Then, the ferroptosis-related lncRNAs were obtained by the limma R package and Cytoscape 3.7.1. We constructed the prediction model by Cox regression analysis. Finally, the prediction model was verified by the median risk score, Kaplan–Meier analysis, the time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, clinical features, and immunoinfiltration analysis. Results. We acquired 1393 ferroptosis-related lncRNAs. The ferroptosis-related lncRNA signature was obtained by multivariate Cox regression analysis, and the patients were divided into a high-risk group and a low-risk group. The prognosis of the high-risk group was worse than that of the low-risk group. We found that the risk score can be used as an independent prognostic index by multivariate Cox regression analysis. The area under the time-dependent ROC curve reached 0.847 at 1 year, 0.906 at 2 years, 0.807 at 3 years, and 0.724 at 5 years in the training cohort. Principal component analysis showed that the diffusion directions of the two groups were different. Gene set enrichment analysis indicated that lncRNAs of two groups may be involved in tumorigenesis. Further analysis showed that high-risk groups were related to immune-related pathways. Ferroptosis-related lncRNAs are related to the proportion of tumor-infiltrating immune cells in CC. Conclusion. We have constructed a ferroptosis-related lncRNA prediction model. The prognostic model had important clinical significance, including improving the predictive value and guiding the individualized treatment of CC patients.
The Role of Cytokines in Nephrotic Syndrome
Authors: Ahmadian Elham , Rahbar Saadat Yalda , Dalir Abdolahinia Elaheh , Bastami Milad , Shoja Mohammadali M. , Zununi Vahed Sepideh , Ardalan Mohammadreza
Published: February 2022

Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS) is an important primary glomerular disease characterized by severe proteinuria. Evidence supports a role for T cell dysfunction in the pathogenesis of INS. Glucocorticoids are the primary therapy for INS; however, steroid-resistant NS (SRNS) patients are at a higher risk of drug-induced side effects and harbor poor prognosis. Although the exact mechanism of the resistance is unknown, the imbalances of T helper subtype 1 (Th1), Th2, and regulatory T cells (Tregs) and their cytokines may be involved in the pathogenesis of glucocorticoid responsiveness. Up to now, no confirmed biomarkers have been able to predict SRNS; however, a panel of cytokines may predict responsiveness and identify SRNS patients. Thus, the introduction of distinctive cytokines as novel biomarkers of SRNS enables both preventions of drug-related toxicity and earlier switch to more effective therapies. This review highlights the impacts of T cell population imbalances and their downstream cytokines on response to glucocorticoid responsiveness state in INS.
Iron‐Deficiency Anemia in Women of Reproductive Age in Urban Areas of Quetta District, Pakistan
Authors: Qadir Mir Abdul , Rashid Nadeem , Mengal Mohummad Alam , Hasni Muhammad Sharif , Kakar Shahab ud din , Khan Ghulam Mustafa , Shawani Nisar Ahmed , Ali Imran , Sheikh Irfan Shahzad , Khan Nasimullah
Published: February 2022

Anemia is associated with poor health outcomes, and the prevalence of anemia is a significant public health indicator for both developed and developing countries. Iron‐deficiency anemia (IDA) is the most common type of anemia, which often develops during pregnancy. A cross‐sectional study was conducted in the urban areas of Quetta city among the women of reproductive age (15‐49 years) to update the status of IDA in the region. The study participants (n = 216) were selected on a random basis, and the samples were further distributed by age. Overall, 75% of females were nonanemic, and among those that were anemic, 2% were severe, 13% were moderately, and 10% were mildly anemic. Among the IDA‐affected women, 83% were non‐pregnant. Age‐wise distribution of IDA revealed no significant difference among different age groups, but numerically higher observations were recorded in the age groups of less than 30 years. The highest number of moderately IDA‐affected women (15%) were in the age group 15‐19 with the following IDA indicating parameters: hemoglobin 9.64 g/dl, mean corpuscular volume 63.11 fl, mean corpuscular hemoglobin 20.40%, red cell distribution 19.28%. This study will be beneficial for illustrating the requirement and the development of a program to raise extended awareness in the Quetta communities to overcome the negative health effects of IDA on the female population.
Changes in Renal Function in Patients with Recurrence of Atrial Arrhythmia after an Initial Catheter Ablation
Authors: Shen Youmei , Chen Hongwu , Yang Gang , Ju Weizhu , Zhang Fengxiang , Gu Kai , Cui Chang , Li Mingfang , Chen Minglong
Published: February 2022

Background. Impaired renal function and atrial fibrillation (AF) can form a vicious cycle. Although there have been reports on improved renal function in patients who undergo successful AF ablation, renal function in patients with recurrence of AF has not been studied separately. We explored the changes in renal function in recurrent AF patients after catheter ablation with mild renal dysfunction and the influencing factors. Methods. We retrospectively recruited nonvalvular AF (NVAF) patients with mildly impaired renal function admitted for catheter ablation and readmitted due to recurrence of AF. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated before the index procedure and during readmission. △eGFR was defined as the difference between eGFR readmission and eGFR baseline. The same calculation applied for △CHA2DS2-VASc score. The primary endpoint was improved renal function (△eGFR >0) after AF catheter ablation in patients with atrial arrhythmia recurrence. Results. A total of 132 NVAF patients were included in this study. The mean eGFR at readmission was significantly increased compared with the eGFR at baseline before the index ablation procedure (81.5 ± 1.1 vs. 78.0 ± 0.7 ml/min/1.73 m2,

P
<
0.001

). The multivariable Cox regression analysis showed that a lower △CHA2DS2-VASc score (HR: 0.42,

P
=
0.003

) and paroxysmal recurrent atrial arrhythmia (HR: 2.97,

P
=
0.001

) were associated with better renal function. Conclusion. In NVAF patients with mildly impaired renal function, even those with recurrence after the initial catheter ablation, we observed improvements in renal function, which was associated with a lower △CHA2DS2-VASc score and paroxysmal recurrent arrhythmia.
Finite Element Analysis of CFRP Strengthened Bundle RC Column Subjected to Repeated Impact Load
Authors: Abay Abreha
Published: February 2022

This paper studied numerically the behavior of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) confined bundle reinforced concrete (BRC) columns subjected to repeated impact load. To verify the numerical models with previous experimental tests, Abaqus/Explicit based nonlinear finite element (FE) model was developed. Based on the proposed FE analysis, a parametric study was conducted to investigate the effects of different factors such as CFRP confinement, eccentric axial load, bundle reinforcement arrangement, and column height on repeated impact capacity of RC column. While modeling the structural element, concrete damage plasticity (CDP) model is adopted to account for the plastic and strain rate‐dependent behaviors of concrete material under impact load. From the nonlinear FE analysis result, it was found that CFRP confinement improved the impact capacity of bundle reinforced concrete column. As column height increased, the column impact resistance was found to decrease. Moreover, when the CFRP strengthened BRC column specimens were repeatedly impacted, the continuous matrix material was severely damaged, while the fiber showed only minor and gradual compressive failures.
Effects of a Mediterranean Diet Compared with the Low-Fat Diet on Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Feeding Trial
Authors: Sadeghi Alireza , Zarrinjooiee Gholamreza , Mousavi Seyedeh Neda , Abdollahi Sabet Somayae , Jalili Nooshin
Published: February 2022

Objectives. Knee osteoarthritis is a common global problem, especially in overweight and obese people. It is not clear that weight loss is a factor for pain reduction in these patients or dietary components are important. Herein, we compared the effects of Mediterranean (MD) and low-fat diet on pain, stiffness, and physical function in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Subjects/Methods. In this randomized feeding trial, 129 patients with knee osteoarthritis were enrolled. Participants were randomly allocated to the MD (n = 43), low-fat diet (n = 43), and control group (regular diet) (n = 43) for 12 weeks by the blocked randomization method. Total Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) score and its subscales and anthropometric indices were compared among the groups at the baseline and end of the study. Results. Weight and waist circumference reduction was significantly higher in the MD and low-fat diet groups compared with the regular group (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively), but there was no significant difference between the MD and low-fat diet groups (p = 0.2). Pain was significantly decreased in the Mediterranean-style compared with the low-fat (p = 0.04) and regular (p = 0.002) diet groups. Physical function was significantly improved in the MD compared with the regular diet group (p = 0.01), but had no significant difference with the low-fat one. Stiffness had no significant difference among the dietary groups. Conclusions. Pain severity was reduced in the MD group, but no significant change was reported in patients on low-fat and regular diets. It seems that dietary components in the MD, regardless of weight loss effect, are effective on pain reduction in patients with KOA. The present study was registered in the IRCT under the code of IRCT20200929048876N1.
Outcome Analysis Depending on the Different Types of Incision following Immediate Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Woo Soo Hyun , Choi Jin Mi , Eom Jin Sup , Kim Eun Key , Han Hyun Ho
Published: February 2022

Background. Immediate breast reconstruction following nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) is widely used for its cosmetic benefits. Due to the lack of guidelines, the types of incisions in NSM vary and which method is superior remains a debate. In this study, we hypothesized that the periareolar incision has a higher risk of complications, such as nipple-areolar complex (NAC) necrosis, than other incisions. Methods. A retrospective chart review was conducted and divided into three groups: the periareolar, radial, and lateral incision groups. The reconstruction method and complications of NAC necrosis, wound dehiscence, seroma, hematoma, infection, and reconstruction failure were investigated. Results. A total of 103 patients (periareolar incision (33%, n = 34), radial incision (39.8%, n = 41), and lateral incision (27.2%, n = 28)) who underwent NSM and immediate breast reconstruction from 2018 to 2020 were included. The reconstruction methods were direct-to-implant, DIEP flap, LD flap, and PAP flap, and there was all of which had no statistically significant difference between the groups regarding the reconstruction method (

p
=
0.257

). In terms of complications, there was no significant difference in NAC necrosis (29.4%, 19.5%, and 21.4%, in the periareolar, radial, and lateral groups, respectively;

p
=
0.578

), wound dehiscence, seroma or hematoma, infection, and reconstruction failure. Conclusion. Breast reconstruction following NSM through periareolar incision does not increase the incidence of complications, including NAC necrosis. However, since only Asian patients with low BMI were included, if an appropriate patient group is selected for immediate reconstruction after NSM, reconstruction can be safely performed through the periareolar incision, and good cosmetic results can be obtained.
Do Gender or Major Influence the Performance in Programming Learning? Teaching Mode Decision Based on Exercise Series Analysis
Authors: Gao Zhizezhang , Zhang Yan , Zhang RuiPeng , Sun Xia , Feng Jun
Published: February 2022

Both traditional teaching and online teaching advocate individualized education. One of the difficulties on exploring possible improvements of instructional design is the challenging process of data collection. Existing research mainly focuses on the exam score of students but pays little attention to students' daily practice. As an effective method to handle time-series dataset, the generalized estimating equations (GEE) have not been used in this research field. Considering above issues, we first propose an experimental paradigm of programming performance analysis based on the performance record of students’ daily practice-exam and finish collecting a complete time-series dataset in one semester, including students’ individual attributes, learning behavior, and learning performance. Then, we propose an approach that analyzes practice-exam time-series dataset based on GEE to study the influence of individual attributes and learning behavior on learning performance. It is the first time to apply the GEE method for ordinal multinomial responses in this research field, by which we conclude several results that gender or major does have a certain difference on the programming learning. The longer the answer time and the less the cost time, the better the students' performance. Regardless of gender, students tend to cram for the exam and perform a little worse in the daily exercise. Finally, targeting at two important individual attributes, we give corresponding teaching mode decisions that university should teach students programming by major and teacher should give different teaching methods to students of different genders at different time points.
Evaluation of Pericapsular Nerve Group (PENG) Block for Analgesic Effect in Elderly Patients with Femoral Neck Fracture Undergoing Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Hua Hao , Xu Yan , Jiang MengLu , Dai Xu
Published: February 2022

Background. For evaluating pericapsular nerve group (PENG) block’s analgesic effect on elderly patients suffering from femoral neck fracture undergoing hip arthroplasty to provide a basis for optimizing perioperative analgesia in hip arthroplasty. Methods. Forty-eight patients undergoing hip arthroplasty with spinal anesthesia for femoral neck fracture in our hospital were chosen in this study. Based on the random number table method, patients were categorized into the following two groups (n = 24 per group): the hip peripheral nerve group block group (PE group) and the iliac fascia block group (FI group). The fascia iliaca compartment block was used in the FI group, whereas the pericapsular nerve group block in the PE group. When placed in the position for spinal anesthesia (T4), we measured dynamic and static visual analog scale (VAS) scores as well as analgesic satisfaction before blockade (T0), along with at 10 min (T1), 20 min (T2), and 30 min postblockade (T3). Sufentanil dosage and effective analgesic pump press number at 6 h (T5), 12 h (T6), 24 h (T7), and 48 h (T8) postoperatively were recorded. In the meantime, the development of related complications was also recorded. Results. Compared with T0, patients in both groups achieved lower static VAS scores at T1–T4 (

P

 < 0.05) and lower dynamic VAS scores at T2–T4 of the FI group (

P

 < 0.05). Relative to the FI group, both static and dynamic VAS scores at T1–T4 were obviously lower in the PE group (

P

 < 0.05), along with increased dynamic analgesic satisfaction (

P

 < 0.05). Weakness of the quadriceps was observed in seven patients in the FI groups (

P

 < 0.05). No delirium, hematoma, puncture site infection, or nerve injury occurred in either group. Conclusion. The pericapsular nerve group block can provide safe and effective analgesia for elderly patients during the perioperative period of hip arthroplasty, with rapid onset, good analgesic effect, high patient satisfaction, and low complication rate, and is worthy of widespread application. The trial is registered with ChiCTR2100046785.
Theoretical Analysis of Two Collinear Cracks in an Orthotropic Solid under Linear Thermal Flux and Linear Mechanical Load
Authors: Wu Bing , Zhu Bao-Yin , Song Hao-Meng , Huang Qiong-Ao
Published: February 2022

This paper studies the problem of a cracked orthotropic solid subject to linear thermal flux and linear mechanical load. The proposed extended partially insulated crack model is employed to simulate two collinear cracks. Taking advantage of Fourier transform technique and superposition theory, the closed form of some physical quantities and fracture parameters is obtained. Some simple examples are employed to demonstrate dimensionless thermal conductivity (

R

c

) between the upper and below crack regions, and the proposed coefficient (

ε

) has great effects on some physical quantities and fracture parameters.
Bronchiectasis: Retrospective Analysis of Clinical and Pathological Findings in a Tertiary-Care Hospital
Authors: Akatli Ayse Nur , Ulutas Hakkı , Turkmen Samdanci Emine , Celik Muhammet Reha
Published: February 2022

Background. Bronchiectasis is still a challenging chronic lung disease in developing countries. Patients with bronchiectasis can also have pulmonary hypertension. There are sparse data on the prevalence of pulmonary hypertension in patients with bronchiectasis. Materials and methods. Archived H&E-stained slides of 141 patients histopathologically diagnosed with bronchiectasis were reevaluated. Cases were categorized into 4 subgroups based on histology: tubular, varicose, follicular, and cystic. In addition, concomitant histopathological changes were also reevaluated. For patients with available CT sections, main, right, and left pulmonary artery (PA) diameters and PA/aorta ratio were measured with regard to pulmonary hypertension. Results. Of the cases, 70% (n = 89) were female and 30% (n = 52) were male, with a mean age of 36.58 in females and 33.84 in males. Histopathologically, 43% (n = 68) of the cases showed follicular, 37% (n = 59) showed varicose, 35% (n = 56) showed tubular, and 28% (n = 45) showed cystic bronchiectasis morphology. All cases showed chronic inflammation, fibrosis, muscle destruction, and cartilage destruction. Aspergillus were present in 11% of the cases showing cystic morphology. Approximately 17% of the cases (n = 24) were found to have neuroendocrine cell proliferations. In cases with medial hypertrophy, a statistically significant increase in the left pulmonary artery diameter was radiologically determined. Conclusions. Medial hypertrophy was found to be significant with regard to indicating a radiological increase in left pulmonary artery diameter. Vascular changes observed in bronchiectasis cases and the presence of neuroendocrine cell proliferations should be specified in pathology reports, and aspergilloma should be carefully investigated in cases with predominant cystic morphology.
Research on Diagnosis Architecture of Cardiovascular Diseases Based on Multimedical Images
Authors: Yu Chunying , Che Yani , Sun Guifang , Zhao Xipeng , Liu Bin
Published: February 2022

Objective. To study the effect of a multi-image source 3D modeling imaging examination system on the diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases in cardiac surgery. Methods. The data of 680 confirmed patients and 1590 suspected patients in the cardiac surgery department of all hospitals of a large chain hospital management group were selected. All patients gave the examination results of multiple image sources and independent examination results of multiple image sources, respectively, their examination sensitivity, specificity, and reliability were compared, and the treatment efficiency and nursing satisfaction of the virtual reference group were deduced in MATLAB. Perform the bivariate

t

-test and comparative statistics in SPSS. Results. The multi-image source 3D modeling examination system had higher examination sensitivity, specificity, and reliability and higher examination sensitivity in the early stage of the disease. It was deduced that the clinical efficiency and nursing satisfaction based on the examination results were significantly improved (

t
<
10.000

,

p
<
0.01

). Conclusion. The multi-image source 3D modeling imaging examination system is suitable for the diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases in cardiac surgery.