bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On μ-symmetric polynomials
Authors: Yang Jing , Yap Chee K.
Published: September 2021

We study functions of the roots of an integer polynomial [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] distinct roots [Formula: see text] of multiplicity [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]. Traditionally, root functions are studied via the theory of symmetric polynomials; we generalize this theory to [Formula: see text]-symmetric polynomials. We initiate the study of the vector space of [Formula: see text]-symmetric polynomials of a given degree [Formula: see text] via the concepts of [Formula: see text]-gist and [Formula: see text]-ideal. In particular, we are interested in the root [Formula: see text]. The D-plus discriminant of [Formula: see text] is [Formula: see text]. This quantity appears in the complexity analysis of the root clustering algorithm of Becker et al. (ISSAC 2016). We conjecture that [Formula: see text] is [Formula: see text]-symmetric, which implies [Formula: see text] is rational. To explore this conjecture experimentally, we introduce algorithms for checking if a given root function is [Formula: see text]-symmetric. We design three such algorithms: one based on Gröbner bases, another based on canonical bases and reduction, and the third based on solving linear equations. Each of these algorithms has variants that depend on the choice of a basis for the [Formula: see text]-symmetric functions. We implement these algorithms (and their variants) in Maple and experiments show that the latter two algorithms are significantly faster than the first.
Deep Fusion of a Skewed Redundant Magnetic and Inertial Sensor for Heading State Estimation in a Saturated Indoor Environment
Authors: Karimi Mojtaba , Babaians Edwin , Oelsch Martin , Steinbach Eckehard
Published: September 2021

Robust attitude and heading estimation in an indoor environment with respect to a known reference are essential components for various robotic applications. Affordable Attitude and Heading Reference Systems (AHRS) are typically using low-cost solid-state MEMS-based sensors. The precision of heading estimation on such a system is typically degraded due to the encountered drift from the gyro measurements and distortions of the Earth’s magnetic field sensing. This paper presents a novel approach for robust indoor heading estimation based on skewed redundant inertial and magnetic sensors. Recurrent Neural Network-based (RNN) fusion is used to perform robust heading estimation with the ability to compensate for the external magnetic field anomalies. We use our previously described correlation-based filter model for preprocessing the data and for empowering perturbation mitigation. Our experimental results show that the proposed scheme is able to successfully mitigate the anomalies in the saturated indoor environment and achieve a Root-Mean-Square Error of less than [Formula: see text] for long-term use.
Formation Process of Y2O3:Bi3+,Eu3 + Nanosheets from Hydroxide Precursor Nanosheets
Authors: Matsunaga Takuya , Iso Yoshiki , Isobe Tetsuhiko
Published: September 2021

We studied the formation of Y2O3:Bi3+,Eu3+ nanosheets from different Y2O3 precursors to propose a mechanism for their formation. One limitation of solar cells is their low sensitivity to near-ultraviolet light, which may be improved by including a phosphor to convert near-ultraviolet light to visible light, which can be readily absorbed. An attractive phosphor for this role is Y2O3:Bi3+,Eu3+; however, it remains unclear how Y2O3:Bi3+,Eu3+ forms from Y2O3 precursor nanosheets. Therefore, we studied the formation of Y2O3:Bi3+,Eu3+ nanosheets from Y2O3 precursors fabricated under various conditions including different pH, base type, and autoclave duration. We found that single-crystalline Y2O3:Bi3+,Eu3+ nanosheets formed from Y2O3 precursor nanosheets produced under suitable conditions. The Y2O3:Bi3+,Eu3+ nanosheets retained the crystallographic orientation of the precursor Y2O3 nanosheets. The formation of these nanosheets did not require the presence of organic ligands. Our findings indicate that Y2O3:Bi3+,Eu3+ nanosheet formation involved anisotropic assembly of crystallized nanoparticles and a subsequent dissolution–recrystallization process. The Y2O3:Bi3+,Eu3+ nanosheets fabricated under certain conditions displayed absorption and emission properties suitable for use as solar converters.
The peer teachers’ perception of intrinsic motivation and rewards
Authors: Engels Daniel , Haupt Corinna , Kugelmann Daniela , Dethleffsen Kathrin
Published: September 2021

Peer-assisted learning (PAL) is an educational method commonly applied in academic teaching. It is characterized by the interplay between peer teachers and learners who are at a similar academic level. Although it has been shown that peer teachers benefit from participating in PAL, little is known about their perception of motivation and rewards. Here we designed a questionnaire and measured the perception of intrinsic motivation and rewards of peer teachers from three different PAL programs. Overall, peer teachers were highly intrinsically motivated. The reward category Supporting Others was appreciated the most, followed by the reward categories Self-Improvement, Feedback, and Financial. The perception of rewards reflected the features of the three PAL programs. For example, the item “learning the teaching matter themselves” was most valued by peer teachers who were enrolled in a PAL program that deployed their peer teachers primarily to convey knowledge. In contrast, “actively shaping the teaching situation” was appreciated most by peer teachers of the PAL program that enables their peer teachers to conceive their teaching sessions independently. These findings go toward recommendations of the implementation and further development of PAL programs. If PAL programs clearly define their features and aims, they could specifically attract (and select) peer teachers and meet their needs as well as expectations, providing opportunities to gain knowledge and teaching experience. Ultimately, these PAL programs could better support the learners.
Pathophysiology teaching reform during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Yao Lijun , Li Kun , He Jing , Liu Ling
Published: September 2021

The Coronavirus Disease 2019 pandemic has changed the way most people live and work, including the way in which students undertake study. To protect students during the pandemic, most schools in China adopted a study-at-home model. Under these circumstances, the pathophysiology teaching team at Tongji University considered how to reform teaching methods to minimize the impact of the pandemic on students’ curriculum studies. This article describes our teaching reforms in detail, notably a combination of online education resources, online discussion courses, and a WeChat study group. We compared the effects of the reformed and traditional teaching approaches, including student performance and student evaluation of the reformed teaching methods. Analysis showed that although students were generally worried about the impact of the pandemic on their curriculum studies, their overall performance was not affected by the reformed teaching methods. Of interest, compared with traditional teaching, the proportion of students with higher final test scores (≥90 points) actually increased. The revised teaching methods promoted the learning of some students externally and internally and enhanced their enthusiasm for medical study and their academic performance. These approaches could be applied as a reference for future course arrangements after the pandemic.
Virtual delivery: a panacea for the financial and ethical challenges associated with physiology laboratory classes?
Authors: Gaganis Voula , Beckett Elizabeth , Choate Julia , Aguilar-Roca Nancy , Etherington Sarah , Haigh Charlotte , Scott Derek , Sweeney Terrence , Zubek John , French Michelle
Published: September 2021

There has been a gradual shift in the delivery of physiology laboratory classes over the last 30 years. For many, wet-lab demonstrations using animal tissues have been reduced or replaced with student-led investigations where students are both subjects and researchers. Despite these changes, expectations remain that physiology courses should include a practical component to encourage deeper and higher-order learning. Wet-lab tissue experiments and student-based group research formats can be expensive to run, associated with various ethical constraints, and, as discovered in these times of COVID-19, difficult to operate while adhering to physical distancing. We address the proposition that online and/or remote delivery of laboratory classes using digital technologies may provide a solution to both financial and ethical constraints of on-campus laboratory classes. Our discussions, as an international group of 10 physiologists from the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, revealed that although some of the financial and ethical constraints of using animal tissues and student-led investigations were addressed by the introduction of online alternatives, the construction and maintenance of online delivery modes could also be expensive and ethical issues, not previously considered, included digital equity and student data security. There was also a collective perception that if face-to-face laboratory classes were changed to an entirely virtual mode there was a risk that some intended learning outcomes would not be met. It was concluded that the “ideal” approach is likely a hybrid model whereby student attendance in face-to-face, on-campus classes is supported with interactive digital content either developed in house or obtained through third-party providers.
Competitive Product Identification and Sales Forecast Based on Consumer Reviews
Authors: Zhang Guoquan , Qiu Haibin
Published: September 2021

Sellers readily obtain consumer product evaluations from online reviews in order to identify competitive products in detail and predict sales. Firstly, we collect product review data from shopping websites, social media, product communities, and other online platforms to identify product competitors with the help of word-frequency cooccurrence technology. We take mobile phones as an example to mine and analyze product competition information. Then, we calculate the product review quantity, review emotion value, product-network heat, and price statistics and establish the regression model of online product review forecasts. In addition, the neural-network model is established to suggest that the relationships among factors are linear. On the basis of analyzing and discussing the impact of product sales of the competitors, product price, the emotional value of the reviews, and product-network popularity, we construct the sales forecast model. Finally, to verify the validity of the factor analysis affecting the sales and the rationality of the established model, actual sales data are used to further analyze and verify the model, showing that the model is reasonable and effective.
[Retracted] Research on Sports Class Load Monitoring System Based on Threshold Classification Algorithm
Authors: Zhao Lin
Published: September 2021

In order to reduce the sports injury caused by high intensity sports classes, it is necessary to monitor the state of the sports load. Therefore, the sport’s load monitoring system based on a threshold classification algorithm is proposed. In this paper, we design the hardware and software structures of the sports load monitoring systems in a physical education class. In this system, the state parameters of the sports load are collected by wireless sensor network nodes, and the feature parameters are fused and clustered by the integrated information fusion method. After that, we establish the movement target image acquisition model, which unifies the ZigBee networking realization to the high intensity sports classroom movement load monitoring. Simulation results show that the designed PE classroom sports load monitoring system based on the threshold classification algorithm has high performance for sports parameter monitoring and can effectively avoid sports injury caused by overload.
A Novel Convex Hull Coverage Algorithm for the Deployment of Electric Taxi Swap Stations Based on Urban Traffic Flow
Authors: Zhu Xudong , Yao Lijun , Mao Yuxin , Wang Renjie , Shi Hanxiao , Qi Ji
Published: September 2021

Electric taxis have been adopted as a new energy public transportation tool as opposed to traditional taxis in modern city. Designing an efficient swapping station deployment scheme has become an important issue to improve the endurance capability of electric taxis. In this study, based on real operation trajectory data from 3997 taxis in Suzhou city, the battery swapping demand of taxis based on urban traffic flow is obtained to construct a network coverage deployment model under rule constraints, where the main optimization goal is to minimize the number of swapping stations and load balancing. According to this model, a traffic drive planning algorithm based on computational geometry is presented. The experimental results illustrate that the deployment scheme obtained by the proposed algorithm is significantly optimized in terms of the deployment cost and service load and has a lower algorithm time complexity than the typical unified deployment scheme. Therefore, the proposed method can be applied to improve the operating efficiency of the urban electric taxi system.
Mobile Information System of Ceramic Appreciation and Communication Management Based on Mobile Edge Computing
Authors: Wang Mian
Published: September 2021

Mobile edge computing is a very popular technology now. It was proposed to eliminate the problem of lack of global computing resources. This article aims to study the use of the latest mobile edge computing technology to study the mobile information system for appreciation, exchange, and management of the traditional ceramic industry. The whole article uses mobile edge computing technology. It enters the network using wireless methods and provides recent users with the required services and cloud computing functions, allowing users to easily query the information and data they want, plus mobile. The information system enables people to use mobile phones, tablets, and other mobile terminals to query information in the ceramic industry and perform functions such as appreciation, communication, and management. From 2016 to 2020, our country’s ceramic industry exports have increased from US$3.067 billion to US$6.826 billion. Traditional ceramics in our country have been loved by various industries at home and abroad. The number of employees in the ceramic industry has also increased to 5 million, an increase of 30% year-on-year. The ceramic industry is also very promising in the long term.
The Effect of Three Eye Care Methods on the Severity of Lagophthalmos in Intensive Care Patients: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Nikseresht Tahere , Rezaei Mansour , Khatony Alireza
Published: September 2021

Background. Patients admitted to intensive care units are exposed to a variety of eye injuries such as lagophthalmos, which can lead to blindness. There is conflicting evidence regarding the effectiveness of different eye protection methods, and evaluations are ongoing. Therefore, this study was performed to compare the effect of “polyethylene cover,” “polyethylene cover plus artificial tear drops,” and “polyethylene cover plus Lubratex eye ointment” on the severity of lagophthalmos. Methods. A total of 156 patients connected to ventilators were included in this clinical trial using the convenience sampling method. They were randomly divided into three groups: “polyethylene cover,” polyethylene cover plus artificial tear drops,” and “polyethylene cover plus Lubratex eye ointment.” In each group, one eye was regarded as control and the other eye as intervention. The control eye received routine interventions, including washing with normal saline. The eyes were examined daily by an ophthalmologist for 5 days for the occurrence of lagophthalmos. Results. There was no statistically significant difference in the severity of lagophthalmos among the three groups “polyethylene cover,” “polyethylene cover plus artificial tear drop,” and “polyethylene cover plus Lubratex eye ointment.” However, clinically the severity of lagophthalmos was lower in the “polyethylene cover plus artificial tear drops” group than in the other two groups. Conclusion. The results showed that the combination of polyethylene cover and artificial tears drops can be clinically effective in reducing the severity of lagophthalmos. Therefore, the use of this method is recommended for patients admitted to the intensive care unit. Similar studies are recommended.
Urine Culture in Hospitalized Patients during 2014-2018: An Analysis on Pathogen Distribution and Drug Sensitivity
Authors: Sun Dongkai , Cong Peishan , Guan Fengju , Liu Shuai , Sun Lijiang , Zhang Guiming
Published: September 2021

Objective. We sought to analyze the distribution and antibiotic sensitivity of pathogens in hospitalized patients and to provide a scientific reference for the rational application of antibiotics. Methods. From January 2014 to December 2018, urine cultures from patients in our hospital were collected and analyzed retrospectively for the presence, distribution, and drug sensitivity of pathogens. Results. A total of 42,854 midstream urine cultures were collected from which 11,891 (27.75%) pathogens were isolated, including 8101 (68.13%) strains of gram-negative bacteria, 2580 (21.69%) strains of gram-positive bacteria, and 1210 (10.18%) strains of fungi. Escherichia coli and Enterococci were the most common species of gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria, respectively. Drug sensitivity varied among different pathogens. Clear drug resistance was observed in bacteria, while fungus exhibited relatively lower resistance. Conclusion. Pathogens responsible for urinary tract infections in hospitalized patients are diversiform and display resistance to some antibiotics. Drug resistance monitoring should be enhanced to optimize antimicrobial therapy.
Bioactive Foods and Medicinal Plants for Cardiovascular Complications of Type II Diabetes: Current Clinical Evidence and Future Perspectives
Authors: Bahramsoltani Roodabeh , Farzaei Mohammad Hosein , Ram Mahboobe , Nikfar Shekoufeh , Rahimi Roja
Published: September 2021

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the main cause of mortality in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM); however, not all patients are fully satisfied with the current available treatments. Medicinal plants have been globally investigated regarding their effect in CVD, yet the field is far from getting exhausted. The current paper aims to provide an evidence-based review on the clinically evaluated medicinal plants and their main therapeutic targets for the management of CVD in T2DM. Electronic databases including PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched from 2000 until November 2019, and related clinical studies were included. Lipid metabolism, glycemic status, systemic inflammation, blood pressure, endothelial function, oxidative stress, and anthropometric parameters are the key points regulated by medicinal plants in T2DM. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are the two most important mechanisms since inflammation and oxidative stress are the first steps triggering a domino of molecular pathological pathways leading to T2DM and, subsequently, CVD. Polyphenols with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, essential oil-derived compounds with vasorelaxant properties, and fibers with demonstrated effects on obesity are the main categories of phytochemicals beneficial for CVD of T2DM. Some medicinal plants such as garlic (Allium sativum) and milk thistle (Silybum marianum) have strong evidences regarding their beneficial effects; however, others have low level of evidence which reveals the need for further clinical studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods to confirm the safety and efficacy of medicinal plants for the management of CVD in T2DM.
Symbiosis Mechanism of Academic Journals and Discipline Construction in Chinese Colleges
Authors: Li Weiling , Gao Hong
Published: September 2021

Academic journals and discipline construction in colleges are two major drivers of scientific progress. There is a complex interactive mechanism between the two drivers. The synergy between the two is worthy of in-depth research. The research aims include better developing academic journals with discipline advantages and back-feeding discipline construction with academic journals. The symbiotic theory provides a new research perspective for the cooperation mechanism between college academic journals and discipline construction. Drawing on the symbiotic theory, this paper explores the root causes and interactive logic of the collaboration between college academic journals and discipline construction, from the angles of the symbiotic unit, symbiotic environment, and symbiotic model. The results show that the symbiosis between academic journals and discipline construction in Chinese colleges mainly relies on two essential parameters, namely, academic talents and research results; although colleges provide a positive environment, the symbiosis between the two factors mostly takes place on unofficial information platforms and cooperation mechanisms, for the relevant policies are relatively new and mostly discipline-oriented; the symbiosis between college academic journals and discipline construction is mutualistic but remains in the intermittent stage. Therefore, it is important to find a more effective symbiotic path for college academic journals and discipline construction, following their symbiotic law.
Providing an Adaptive Routing along with a Hybrid Selection Strategy to Increase Efficiency in NoC‐Based Neuromorphic Systems
Authors: Trik Mohammad , Pour Mozaffari Saadat , Bidgoli Amir Massoud
Published: September 2021

Effective and efficient routing is one of the most important parts of routing in NoC‐based neuromorphic systems. In fact, this communication structure connects different units through the packets routed by routers and switches embedded in the network on a chip. With the help of this capability, not only high scalability and high development can be created, but by decreasing the global wiring to the chip level, power consumption can be reduced. In this paper, an adaptive routing algorithm for NoC‐based neuromorphic systems is proposed along with a hybrid selection strategy. Accordingly, a traffic analyzer is first used to determine the type of local or nonlocal traffic depending on the number of hops. Then, considering the type of traffic, the RCA and NoP selection strategies are used for the nonlocal and local strategies, respectively. Finally, using the experiments that performed in the simulator environment, it has been shown that this solution can well reduce the average delay time and power consumption.
Synthesis and Antifungal and Insecticidal Activities of Novel N-Phenylbenzamide Derivatives Bearing a Trifluoromethylpyrimidine Moiety
Authors: Yu Xuetong , Lan Wenjun , Chen Meihang , Xu Su , Luo Xiaoxi , He Shuhong , Chen Haijiang , Fei Qiang , Wu Wenneng
Published: September 2021

Seventeen novel N-phenylbenzamide derivatives bearing a trifluoromethylpyrimidine moiety were synthesized via four-step reactions. Their antifungal and insecticidal properties were evaluated. Antifungal test results demonstrated that some of the synthesized compounds showed better in vitro bioactivities against Phomopsis sp., Botryosphaeria dothidea (B. dothidea), and Botrytis cinerea (B. cinerea) at 50 μg/mL than pyrimethanil. Unfortunately, the synthesized compounds revealed lower insecticidal activities against Spodoptera frugiperda (S. frugiperda) and Mythimna separata (M. separata) at 500 μg/mL than chlorantraniliprole.
Impacts of Land Cover and Greenness Change on Soil Loss and Erosion Risk in Damota Area Districts, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Masha Mamush , Yirgu Teshome , Debele Mulugeta
Published: September 2021

Soil erosion is a key problem in Ethiopia in view of tropical climate, lack of vegetation, and landscape relief. Therefore, soil and water conservation (SWC) measures have been practiced, but their impacts on soil loss have not been estimated adequately. The RUSLE modeling was applied using satellite imageries, ASTER GDEM, rainfall, and soil data to estimate total annual soil loss for a 100 km2 hilly and highly populated area in Ethiopia. Soil loss decreased in the Damota districts from 21 to 13 million tons from 2000 to 2020. Similarly, the average annual soil loss decreased by 36%. Very slight-risk areas (< 5 t ha−1 yr−1) increased from 42.66 to 53.72%, and very high-risk areas (> 50 t ha−1 yr−1) decreased from 12 to 5%. Soil and water conservation measures showed an important implication against soil erosion through improved land cover and landscape greenness. However, still, the rate of soil erosion is high compared to the soil loss tolerance of 1–6 t ha−1 yr−1 for the Ethiopian highlands.
Degradation of PVDF-Coated Fabrics after Engineering Applications: Correlations between Surface Microstructure, Physical Properties, and Mechanical Properties Based on Statistical Analysis
Authors: Shang Yingying , Yang Bin , Wu Minger , Tao Youji , Qin Jiaxiang
Published: September 2021

Material degradation has marked impact on the long-term properties and service life of membrane structures. This study is aimed at assessing and understanding the deterioration in visual aspect, surface microstructure, and mechanical properties of a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) polymer after engineering applications. Three groups of PVDF-coated fabrics were removed from different membrane structures in China, which have been used for 15, 16, and 19 years, respectively. Firstly, spectrocolorimetry tests were carried out to determine the evolution of chromaticity and lightness. Other methods such as contact angle and thickness measurements were used to characterize the physical properties. Then, surface morphology was observed by using scanning electron microscope (SEM) technology. Moreover, a series of uniaxial tensile tests and tearing tests were performed to obtain the mechanical indicators including uniaxial tensile strength, strain at break, tearing strength, and uniaxial elastic modulus. In order to further study the degradation mechanism, infrared spectroscopy was used to characterize the molecular structure of aged fabrics. Finally, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) provided a comprehensive description of correlations between surface microstructure, physical properties, and mechanical properties. This paper offers a further understanding of the design, qualification, and durability evaluation of membrane structures.
The Utility of SOX2 and AGR2 Biomarkers as Early Predictors of Tamoxifen Resistance in ER-Positive Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Zamzam Yomna , Abdelmonem Zamzam Yosra , Aboalsoud Marwa , Harras Heba
Published: September 2021

Background. Despite the undeniable benefit of tamoxifen therapy for ER-positive breast cancer patients, approximately one-third of those patients either do not respond to tamoxifen or develop resistance. Thus, it is a crucial step to identify novel, reliable, and easily detectable biomarkers indicating resistance to this drug. Objective. The aim of this work is to explore SOX2 and AGR2 biomarker expression in the tumor tissue of ER-positive breast cancer patients in combination with the evaluation of serum AGR2 level of these patients in order to validate these biomarkers as early predictors of tamoxifen resistance. Methods. This study was conducted on 224 ER-positive breast cancer patients. All patients were primarily subjected to serum AGR2 levelling by ELISA and their breast cancer tissue immunostained for SOX2 and AGR2. After 5 years of follow-up, the patients were divided into 3 groups: group 1 was tamoxifen sensitive and groups 2 and 3 were tamoxifen resistant. Time to failure of tamoxifen treatment was considered the time from the beginning of tamoxifen therapy to the time of discovery of breast cancer recurrence or metastases (in months). Results. SOX2 and AGR2 biomarkers expression and serum AGR2 level were significantly higher in groups 2 and 3 in comparison to group 1, while the relationship between Her2 neu expression and Ki67 index in the 3 different groups was statistically nonsignificant. Lower SOX2 and AGR2 expression and low AGR2 serum levels in the studied patients of groups 2 and 3 were significantly associated with longer time-to-failure of tamoxifen treatment. According to the ROC curve, the combined use of studied markers validity was with a sensitivity of 100%, specificity of 96%, PPV 96%, and NPV 100% (

p
<
0.001

; AUC: 0.984). Conclusions. Integrated use of SOX2 and AGR2 biomarkers with serum AGR2 assay holds a promising hope for their future use as predictive markers for early detection of tamoxifen resistance in ER-positive breast cancer patients.
Growth Hormone (GH) Enhances Endogenous Mechanisms of Neuroprotection and Neuroplasticity after Oxygen and Glucose Deprivation Injury (OGD) and Reoxygenation (OGD/R) in Chicken Hippocampal Cell Cultures
Authors: Olivares-Hernández Juan David , Balderas-Márquez Jerusa Elienai , Carranza Martha , Luna Maricela , Martínez-Moreno Carlos G. , Arámburo Carlos
Published: September 2021

As a classical growth promoter and metabolic regulator, growth hormone (GH) is involved in development of the central nervous system (CNS). This hormone might also act as a neurotrophin, since GH is able to induce neuroprotection, neurite growth, and synaptogenesis during the repair process that occurs in response to neural injury. After an ischemic insult, the neural tissue activates endogenous neuroprotective mechanisms regulated by local neurotrophins that promote tissue recovery. In this work, we investigated the neuroprotective effects of GH in cultured hippocampal neurons exposed to hypoxia-ischemia injury and further reoxygenation. Hippocampal cell cultures obtained from chick embryos were incubated under oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD, <5% O2, 1 g/L glucose) conditions for 24 h and simultaneously treated with GH. Then, cells were either collected for analysis or submitted to reoxygenation and normal glucose incubation conditions (OGD/R) for another 24 h, in the presence of GH. Results showed that OGD injury significantly reduced cell survival, the number of cells, dendritic length, and number of neurites, whereas OGD/R stage restored most of those adverse effects. Also, OGD/R increased the mRNA expression of several synaptogenic markers (i.e., NRXN1, NRXN3, NLG1, and GAP43), as well as the growth hormone receptor (GHR). The expression of BDNF, IGF-1, and BMP4 mRNAs was augmented in response to OGD injury, and exposure to OGD/R returned it to normoxic control levels, while the expression of NT-3 increased in both conditions. The addition of GH (10 nM) to hippocampal cultures during OGD reduced apoptosis and induced a significant increase in cell survival, number of cells, and doublecortin immunoreactivity (DCX-IR), above that observed in the OGD/R stage. GH treatment also protected dendrites and neurites during OGD, inducing plastic changes reflected in an increase and complexity of their outgrowths during OGD/R. Furthermore, GH increased the expression of NRXN1, NRXN3, NLG1, and GAP43 after OGD injury. GH also increased the BDNF expression after OGD, but reduced it after OGD/R. Conversely, BMP4 was upregulated by GH after OGD/R. Overall, these results indicate that GH protective actions in the neural tissue may be explained by a synergic combination between its own effect and that of other local neurotrophins regulated by autocrine/paracrine mechanisms, which together accelerate the recovery of tissue damaged by hypoxia-ischemia.
Possible Therapeutic Potential of Cysteinyl Leukotriene Receptor Antagonist Montelukast in Treatment of SARS-CoV-2-Induced COVID-19
Authors: Dey Mangaldeep , Singh Rakesh Kumar
Published: September 2021

Background: The coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic is a serious devastating disease and has posed a global health emergency. So far, there is not any specific therapy approved till date to control the clinical symptoms of the disease. Remdesivir has been approved by the FDA as an emergency clinical therapy. But it may not be effective alone to control the disease as it can only control the viral replication in the host. Summary: This article summarizes the possible therapeutic potential and benefits of using montelukast, a cysteinyl leukotriene 1 (CysLT1) receptor antagonist, to control COVID-19 pathophysiology. Montelukast has shown anti-inflammatory effects, reduced cytokine production, improvement in post-infection cough production and other lung complications. Key Messages: Recent reports clearly indicate a distinct role of CysLT-regulated cytokines and immunological signaling in COVID-19. Thus, montelukast may have a clinical potential to control lung pathology during COVID-19.
MRI Finding of Prostatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kitajima Kazuhiro , Yamamoto Shingo , Yamasaki Takashi , Kihara Takako , Kawanaka Yusuke , Komoto Hisashi , Kimura Neinei , Hirota Seiichi , Yamakado Koichiro
Published: September 2021

Ductal adenocarcinoma is a variant of prostatic adenocarcinoma, originating from the epithelial lining of the primary and secondary ducts of the prostate. We report a 63-year-old male with prostatic ductal adenocarcinoma, presenting as urinary retention and a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level of 11.71 ng/mL and biopsy-proven prostate cancer (Gleason score 3 + 3). MRI showed 2 hemorrhagic, multilocular cysts projecting into the bladder side from the prostatic inner gland and between the prostate and the right seminal vesicle. The prostate inner gland showed high signal intensity on the T2-weighted image and included tiny hyperintense spots on the fat-suppression T1-weighted image. In the part of the border of the hemorrhagic, multilocular cyst, a solid portion showing slight low intensity on T1-weigthed imaging and markedly restricted diffusion was observed, suggesting prostate cancer. He underwent total prostatectomy, and ductal adenocarcinoma (Gleason score 4 + 4) in the prostate inner gland and multilocular cysts was pathologically diagnosed. After the operation, his PSA level gradually increased, and MRI 8 months after the operation showed a vesical multilocular cyst, suggesting local recurrence. After he underwent radiation therapy and hormonal therapy, PSA level decreased, and no re-recurrence was observed during 8 years. We suggest its inclusion in the differential diagnosis of cases of prostatic ductal adenocarcinoma’s multiloculated cystic formation around the prostate and the bladder.
Primary Extranodal NK/T-Cell Lymphoma Presenting as Neurolymphomatosis Involving Multiple Cranial Nerves: A Case Report
Authors: Ghosh Sharmila , Azzi Jacques , Chan Amy M. , Nael Kambiz , Renteria Anne S. , Steinberg Amir , Petersen Bruce E.
Published: September 2021

Neurolymphomatosis (NL) is a rare condition caused by the lymphomatous or leukemic infiltration of nerves and manifests as neuropathy. Most often, NL is associated with B-lineage non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and only infrequently occurs in conjunction with T- or NK-lineage NHL. Extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma (ENKTL)-associated NL is exceedingly unusual, with only 9 cases described in the English language literature, in addition to our case. Diagnosis of NL is challenging, as the entity can mimic neuropathies of more common etiologies, and an adequate biopsy may be difficult to obtain. Timely diagnosis demands a high index of suspicion, especially for patients without a history of hematologic malignancy. We expand upon a unique case of NL exclusively involving cranial nerves and cauda equina nerve roots, as the initial manifestation of ENKTL, and contextualize our findings within the framework of previously reported NK/T-lineage NL cases.
Production Improves Visual and Auditory Text Memory in Younger and Older Adults
Authors: Icht Michal , Taitelbaum-Swead Riki , Mama Yaniv
Published: September 2021

Introduction: The production effect refers to memory benefits for materials that were produced (e.g., read aloud) relative to not produced (e.g., read silently) at study. Previous works have found a production benefit for younger and older adults studying written words and for young adults studying written text. The present study aimed to extend these findings by examining the effect of production on text memory in younger and older adults, in the visual, and in the auditory modalities. Methods: A group of young adults (n = 30) and a group of older adults (n = 30) learned informational texts, presented either visually or aurally. In each text, half of the sentences were learned by production (reading aloud or writing) and half by no production (reading silently or listening), followed by fill-in-the-blank tests. Results: An overall memory performance was found to be similar for both groups, with an advantage for the auditory modality. For both groups, more test items were filled in correctly when the relevant information appeared in the produced than in nonproduced sentences, showing the learners’ ability to use distinctiveness information. The production effects were larger for older than younger adults, in both modalities. Discussion: Since older adults are increasingly engage in learning, it is important to develop high-quality structured learning programs for this population. The current results demonstrate the preserved ability of older adults to successfully memorize texts and may guide planning of such programs. Specifically, since learning via the auditory modality yields superior performance for learners across age-groups, it may be recommended for text learning. Because older adults showed larger benefits from active production of the study material, it may be used to better remember educationally relevant material.
Prevalence of Dementia and Associated Factors among Older Adults in Latin America during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Soto-Añari Marcio , Camargo Loida , Ramos-Henderson Miguel , Rivera-Fernández Claudia , Denegri-Solís Lucia , Calle Ursula , Mori Nicanor , Ocampo-Barbá Ninoska , López Fernanda , Porto Maria , Caldichoury-Obando Nicole , Saldías Carol , Gargiulo Pascual , Castellanos Cesar , Shelach-Bellido Salomon , López Norman
Published: September 2021

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a great impact on cognitive health in Latin American older adults, increasing the risk of cognitive impairment and dementia. Our objective was to analyze the prevalence of dementia and the associated factors in Latin American older adults during SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Methods: A multicentric first phase cross-sectional observational study was conducted during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Five thousand two hundred and forty-five Latin American adults over 60 years of age were studied in 10 countries: Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guatemala, Mexico, Peru, the Dominican Republic, and Venezuela. We used the telephone version of Montreal Cognitive Assessment, the “Alzheimer Disease 8” scale for functional and cognitive changes, and the abbreviated version of the Yesavage depression scale. We also asked for sociodemographic and lockdown data. All the evaluation was made by telephone. Cross-tabulations and χ2 tests were used to determine the variability of the prevalence of impairment by sociodemographic characteristics and binary logistic regression to assess the association between dementia and sociodemographic factors. Results: We observed that the prevalence of dementia in Latin America is 15.6%, varying depending on the country (Argentine = 7.83 and Bolivia = 28.5%). The variables most associated with dementia were race and age. It does not seem to be associated with the pandemic but with social and socio-health factors. Conclusion: The prevalence of dementia shows a significant increase in Latin America, attributable to a constellation of ethnic, demographic, and socioeconomic factors.
Frailty and Its Correlates in Cognitively Intact Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Hayajneh Audai A. , Hammouri Hanan , Rababa Mohammad , Al-Rawashedeh Sami , Wallace Debra C. , Alsatari Eman S.
Published: September 2021

Background: Frailty syndrome is characterized by a decline in physiological and psychological reserve and may be associated with poor health outcomes. Objectives: The current study explored frailty and its correlates among cognitively intact community-dwelling older adults. Methods: A secondary analysis of data collected from 109 community-dwelling older adults who are cognitively intact was conducted for the purpose of this study. The Arabic versions of the culturally adapted Tilburg Frailty Indicator, the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, the Geriatric Depression Scale, and the Short Form-36 Quality of Life (QOL) survey. Multiple linear regression was used to examine the relationships between frailty and depression. Results: The results indicated a high prevalence of frailty (78%) and depression (38%) among cognitively intact community-dwelling older adults. Frailty was found to be associated with increased age, being single or illiterate, living alone, having a high number of comorbid conditions, having high rate of depression, and having poor QOL. Conclusion: High prevalence of frailty is associated with high depression scores, a high number of comorbid conditions, and poor QOL among cognitively intact community-dwelling older adults.
Effectiveness of Long-Term Treatment of Multiple Myeloma in Regular Care: Comparison of a Longitudinal and a Cross-Sectional Analysis Approach
Authors: Steinmetz Tilman , Ernst Angela , Hellmich Martin , Heinz Melanie , Totzke Uwe
Published: September 2021

Introduction: New drugs for multiple myeloma have considerably increased the options for consecutive treatment lines in regular care. Official treatment guidelines still discuss several regimens per line, and therefore, current practice is of topical interest. Large cross-sectional studies revealed a greater than linear loss of patients reaching consecutive treatment lines of ever decreasing effectiveness. Methods: In a longitudinal approach, we analyzed data of all 145 multiple myeloma patients treated in our outpatient clinic in Germany between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2019, using a time-to-event analysis with death as competitive risk. Results: The estimated incidences of reaching the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th lines of therapy were 88, 66, 44, and 30%, respectively. Median times to subsequent treatment lines were 34, 18, 14, 13, and 15 months, respectively. Discussion: Percentages of patients reaching later therapy lines were considerably greater than predicted by cross-sectional studies and median times after the 1st line did not suggest a further decrease in effectiveness, while use of new drug regimens was similar to that reported in cross-sectional studies. Conclusion: Effectiveness of later therapy lines appears to be underestimated by cross-sectional analyses, and the conveyed focus on 1st-line treatment for multiple myeloma needs to be scrutinized.
Heifer management characterization in dairy herds from the west of Buenos Aires, Argentina
Authors: Demateis Llera Federico , Vissio Claudina , Turiello María Paula , Herrero María Alejandra , Larriestra Alejandro José
Published: September 2021

The replacement program in a dairy farm represents the second or third largest cost in a dairy operation. This study aimed to characterize and typify the practices related to the dairy heifer replacement program and describe the growth, development, and health parameters during this period in commercial dairy herds in Trenque Lauquen. A cross-sectional observational study was carried out, including 54 randomly selected dairy farms that were visited once to collect data about facilities and management through a semi-structured survey. Cluster and principal coordinates analysis were applied to classify the farms based on all variables collected, grouped in four main areas: pre-fresh cows, colostrum management, pre-weaning calf ’s management, and personnel. Additionally, growth, development, and health status were also recorded and described for calves and breeding heifers. Two similar-sized farm clusters were identified with differences in management and facilities in different areas of calves rearing. In one cluster there was a greater proportion of farms having a pre-fresh group, implementing appropriate health (colostrum, vaccination) and feeding management. Also, differences in personnel and technical support were relevant. The estimated body gain was 452 and 774 g/d for calves younger or older than 60 d of age, respectively. The age and weight farm averages in breeding heifers were 21.0 mo (range: 16.7-27.5) and 416.3 kg (range: 336.7-519.3), respectively. Diarrhea and respiratory affections were the major problems in pre-weaning calves and heifer rearing, respectively. The median mortality was 7.3, 7.6, and 2.9% at the calving, pre-weaning, and heifer rearing period, respectively. The results showed an improvement opportunity for producers, the design of precise and high impact programs that could lead to an improved replacement program.
Baseline Characteristics of Patients With Cavernous Angiomas With Symptomatic Hemorrhage in Multisite Trial Readiness Project
Authors: Kim Helen , Flemming Kelly D. , Nelson Jeffrey A. , Lui Avery , Majersik Jennifer J. , Cruz Michael Dela , Zabramski Joseph , Trevizo Odilette , Lanzino Giuseppe , Zafar Atif , Torbey Michel , Mabray Marc C. , Robinson Myranda , Narvid Jared , Lupo Janine , Thompson Richard E. , Hanley Daniel F. , McBee Nichol , Treine Kevin , Ostapkovich Noeleen , Stadnik Agnieszka , Piedad Kristina , Hobson Nicholas , Carroll Timothy , Shkoukani Abdallah , Carrión-Penagos Julián , Mendoza-Puccini Carolina , Koenig James I. , Awad Issam
Published: September 2021

Background and Purpose:

Brain cavernous angiomas with symptomatic hemorrhage (CASH) have a high risk of neurological disability from recurrent bleeding. Systematic assessment of baseline features and multisite validation of novel magnetic resonance imaging biomarkers are needed to optimize clinical trial design aimed at novel pharmacotherapies in CASH.

Methods:

This prospective, multicenter, observational cohort study included adults with unresected, adjudicated brain CASH within the prior year. Six US sites screened and enrolled patients starting August 2018. Baseline demographics, clinical and imaging features, functional status (modified Rankin Scale and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale), and patient quality of life outcomes (Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-29 and EuroQol-5D) were summarized using descriptive statistics. Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-29 scores were standardized against a reference population (mean 50, SD 10), and one-sample
t
test was performed for each domain. A subgroup underwent harmonized magnetic resonance imaging assessment of lesional iron content with quantitative susceptibility mapping and vascular permeability with dynamic contrast-enhanced quantitative perfusion.

Results:

As of May 2020, 849 patients were screened and 110 CASH cases enrolled (13% prevalence of trial eligible cases). The average age at consent was 46±16 years, 53% were female, 41% were familial, and 43% were brainstem lesions. At enrollment, ≥90% of the cohort had independent functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale score ≤2 and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score <5). However, perceived health problems affecting quality of life were reported in >30% of patients (EuroQol-5D). Patients had significantly worse Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-29 scores for anxiety (
P
=0.007), but better depression (
P
=0.002) and social satisfaction scores (
P
=0.012) compared with the general reference population. Mean baseline quantitative susceptibility mapping and permeability of CASH lesion were 0.45±0.17 ppm and 0.39±0.31 mL/100 g per minute, respectively, which were similar to historical CASH cases and consistent across sites.

Conclusions:

These baseline features will aid investigators in patient stratification and determining the most appropriate outcome measures for clinical trials of emerging pharmacotherapies in CASH.