bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anisotropic stellar model of neutron stars in f(T) gravity with off-diagonal tetrad
Authors: Solanki Jay , Said Jackson Levi
Published: January 2022

In this paper, we develop a new class of analytical solutions describing anisotropic stellar structures of observed neutron stars using modified f(T) gravity. We use the off-diagonal tetrad that is best suitable for studying spherically symmetric objects in f(T) gravity. We develop exact solutions in the quadratic model of f(T) gravity by introducing physically reliable metric potentials that can describe a wide range of astrophysical systems. We then apply the model to investigate the stellar structures of four observed compact stars, 4U 1538-52, J0437-4715, J0030+0451, and 4U 1820-30. We calculate the values of model parameters for the stellar objects under examination in this paper. Comprehensive graphical analysis shows that the model describing anisotropic stellar structures is physically acceptable, causal, and stable. The model inherently exhibits the quadratic equation of state that can be utilized to investigate the material composition and stellar structures of the observed compact stars.
Class Highlight Generative Adversarial Networks for Strip Steel Defect Classification
Authors: Chang Jiang , Guan Shengqi
Published: January 2022

In order to solve the problem of dataset expansion in deep learning tasks such as image classification, this paper proposed an image generation model called Class Highlight Generative Adversarial Networks (CH-GANs). In order to highlight image categories, accelerate the convergence speed of the model and generate true-to-life images with clear categories, first, the image category labels were deconvoluted and integrated into the generator through [Formula: see text] convolution. Second, a novel discriminator that cannot only judge the authenticity of the image but also the image category was designed. Finally, in order to quickly and accurately classify strip steel defects, the lightweight image classification network GhostNet was appropriately improved by modifying the number of network layers and the number of network channels, adding SE modules, etc., and was trained on the dataset expanded by CH-GAN. In the comparative experiments, the average FID of CH-GAN is 7.59; the accuracy of the improved GhostNet is 95.67% with 0.19[Formula: see text]M parameters. The experimental results prove the effectiveness and superiority of the methods proposed in this paper in the generation and classification of strip steel defect images.
A Context-Aware Architecture for Realizing Business Process Adaptation Strategies Using Fuzzy Planning
Authors: Kord Toudeshki Leila , Seyyedi Mir Ali , Salajegheh Afshin
Published: January 2022

Business competency emerges in flexibility and reliability of services that an enterprise provides. To reach that, executing business processes on a context-aware business process management suite which is equipped with monitoring, modeling and adaptation mechanisms and smart enough to react properly using adaptation strategies at runtime, are a major requisite. In this paper, a context-aware architecture is described to bring adaptation to common business process execution software. The architecture comes with the how-to-apply methodology and is established based on process standards like business process modeling notation (BPMN), business process execution language (BPEL), etc. It follows MAPE-K adaptation cycle in which the knowledge, specifically contextual information and their related semantic rules — as the input of adaptation unit — is modeled in our innovative context ontology, which is also extensible for domain-specific purposes. Furthermore, to support separation of concerns, we took apart event-driven adaptation requirements from process instances; these requirements are triggered based on ontology reasoning. Also, the architecture supports fuzzy-based planning and extensible adaptation realization mechanisms to face new or changing situations adequately. We characterized our work in comparison with related studies based on five key adaptation metrics and also evaluated it using an online learning management system case study.
On S-torsion exact sequences and Si-projective modules (i = 1,2)
Authors: Zhao Wei , Pu Yongyan , Chen Mingzhao , Xiao Xuelian
Published: January 2022

Let [Formula: see text] be a commutative ring and [Formula: see text] a given multiplicative closed subset of [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we introduce the new concept of [Formula: see text]-torsion exact sequences (respectively, [Formula: see text]-torsion commutative diagrams) as a generalization of exact sequences (respectively, commutative diagrams). As an application, they can be used to characterize two classes of modules that are generalizations of projective modules.
On Finite Local Rings with Clique Number Four
Authors: Liu Qiong , Wu Tongsuo , Guo Jin
Published: January 2022

We study the algebraic structure of rings [Formula: see text] whose zero-divisor graph [Formula: see text]has clique number four. Furthermore, we give complete characterizations of all the finite commutative local rings with clique number 4.
k-Efficient domination: Algorithmic perspective
Authors: Meybodi Mohsen Alambardar
Published: January 2022

A set [Formula: see text] of a graph [Formula: see text] is called an efficient dominating set of [Formula: see text] if every vertex [Formula: see text] has exactly one neighbor in [Formula: see text], in other words, the vertex set [Formula: see text] is partitioned to some circles with radius one such that the vertices in [Formula: see text] are the centers of partitions. A generalization of this concept, introduced by Chellali et al. [k-Efficient partitions of graphs, Commun. Comb. Optim. 4 (2019) 109–122], is called [Formula: see text]-efficient dominating set that briefly partitions the vertices of graph with different radiuses. It leads to a partition set [Formula: see text] such that each [Formula: see text] consists a center vertex [Formula: see text] and all the vertices in distance [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text]. In other words, there exist the dominators with various dominating powers. The problem of finding minimum set [Formula: see text] is called the minimum [Formula: see text]-efficient domination problem. Given a positive integer [Formula: see text] and a graph [Formula: see text], the [Formula: see text]-efficient Domination Decision problem is to decide whether [Formula: see text] has a [Formula: see text]-efficient dominating set of cardinality at most [Formula: see text]. The [Formula: see text]-efficient Domination Decision problem is known to be NP-complete even for bipartite graphs [M. Chellali, T. W. Haynes and S. Hedetniemi, k-Efficient partitions of graphs, Commun. Comb. Optim.  4 (2019) 109–122]. Clearly, every graph has a [Formula: see text]-efficient dominating set but it is not correct for efficient dominating set. In this paper, we study the following:

[Formula: see text]-efficient domination problem set is NP-complete even in chordal graphs. A polynomial-time algorithm for [Formula: see text]-efficient domination in trees. [Formula: see text]-efficient domination on sparse graphs from the parametrized complexity perspective. In particular, we show that it is [Formula: see text]-hard on d-degenerate graphs while the original dominating set has Fixed Parameter Tractable (FPT) algorithm on d-degenerate graphs. [Formula: see text]-efficient domination on nowhere-dense graphs is FPT.
Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia in Patients with Rheumatic Diseases: Risk Assessment and Prophylaxis
Authors: Lee Matthew Shing Him , Chan Shirley Chiu Wai
Published: January 2022

Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) is an uncommon opportunistic infection in patients with rheumatic diseases with high mortality. Unlike other non-HIV conditions, international guideline for PJP prophylaxis in rheumatic diseases is currently lacking. Recent evidence regarding the risk of PJP and effectiveness of prophylaxis has been accumulating. This Review provides an update on the information about risk factors associated with PJP in patients with rheumatic diseases based on rheumatic diagnoses, use of immunosuppressive agents and other disease-related factors. The second part of the article summarizes evidence regarding the effectiveness of PJP prophylaxis by considering both disease-related and therapy-related factors. Finally, the Review outlined the currently available disease-specific recommendations and local guidelines, and appreciate the factors that influence physicians’ decision.
InPhase: Phase-based Ranging and Localization
Authors: Schröder Yannic , Wolf Lars
Published: January 2022

Ranging and subsequent localization have become more and more critical in today’s factories and logistics. Tracking goods precisely enables just-in-time manufacturing processes. We present the InPhase system for ranging and localization applications. It employs narrowband 2.4 GHz IEEE 802.15.4 radio transceivers to acquire the radio channel’s phase response. In comparison, most other systems employ time-of-flight schemes with Ultra Wideband transceivers. Our software can be used with existing wireless sensor network hardware, providing ranging and localization for existing devices at no extra cost. The introduced Complex-valued Distance Estimation algorithm evaluates the phase response to compute the distance between two radio devices. We achieve high ranging accuracy and precision with a mean absolute error of 0.149 m and a standard deviation of 0.104 m. We show that our algorithm is resilient against noise and burst errors from the phase-data acquisition. Further, we present a localization algorithm based on a particle filter implementation. It achieves a mean absolute error of 0.95 m in a realistic 3D live tracking scenario.
Don't Call It a Comeback: The Criminological and Sociological Study of Subfelonies
Authors: Kohler-Hausmann Issa
Published: January 2022

After featuring prominently in early law and society research, the study of subfelony enforcement and processing was largely eclipsed by the study of mass incarceration. Of late, the subject matter has enjoyed a resurgence. This review addresses what things might be included in a study of subfelonies, what aspects about them researchers have studied, and why it might be theoretically interesting to study them.
Functional Role of Aramid Coated Separator for Dendrite Suppression in Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Arise Ichiro , Miyahara Yuto , Miyazaki Kohei , Abe Takeshi
Published: January 2022

The separator is an essential important key material in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) because it is in contact with the positive and negative electrodes and the electrolyte. Aramid coated separators (ACS) are widely used in automotive and consumer batteries as high-performance separators for LIBs with high safety and excellent lifetime characteristics. Although much effort has been made to improve the electrolyte composition, the lithium deposition on the surface of the graphite electrode at low temperature and the high charge rate is still an unsolved problem in LIBs. In this work, lithium metal is used as a counter electrode, and a separator was placed between lithium metal and graphite composite electrode. The lithium was deposited on the surface of the graphite composite electrode through the separator. Then, the functional role of ACS in the initial deposition process was investigated. The dendrite blocking effect of ACS was studied by the observation of dendrite growth and pulse cycle performance.
Charge Utilization Efficiency and Side Reactions in the Electrochemical Mechanical Polishing of 4H-SiC (0001)
Authors: Yang Xiaozhe , Yang Xu , Gu Haiyang , Kawai Kentaro , Arima Kenta , Yamamura Kazuya
Published: January 2022

Slurryless electrochemical mechanical polishing (ECMP) is very effective in the polishing of silicon carbide (SiC) wafers. To achieve a high material removal rate (MRR) of SiC wafer using ECMP with low electrical energy loss, charge utilization efficiency in the anodic oxidation of the SiC surface was investigated and the underlying mechanism was clarified by modeling the anodic oxidation system of SiC in 1 wt% NaCl aqueous solution. The charge utilization efficiency in the anodic oxidation of SiC was found to be constant when the current density was less than 20 mA cm−2 and significantly decreased when the current density was greater than 30 mA cm−2, resulting in a significant reduction in the MRR. Modeling of the anodic oxidation system indicates that the charge utilization efficiency depended on the potential applied on the SiC surface: the oxidation of SiC occupied the dominant position in the anodizing system when the potential is lower than 25 V vs Ag∣AgCl, charge utilization efficiency greatly decreased when the applied potential was greater than 25 V owing to the occurrence of oxidations of the H2O and Cl−. This research provides both a theoretical and practical foundation for using ECMP to polish SiC wafers.
Thermally Expanded Graphite Incorporated with PEDOT:PSS Based Anode for Microbial Fuel Cells with High Bioelectricity Production
Authors: Rajendran Jerome , Shetty Brahmari H. , Ganapathy Dhanraj , Murugan Preethika , Atchudan Raji , Umapathy Dhamodharan , Khosla Ajit , Sundramoorthy Ashok K.
Published: January 2022

Modification of anodes with highly biocompatible materials could enhance bacterial adhesion, growth, and improve the rate of electron-transfer ability in microbial fuel cells (MFCs). As such, there has been increasing interest in the development of innovative anode materials to prepare high-performance MFCs. We report the synthesis of poly(3,4-ethylene dioxythiophene):poly(4-styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) doped with thermally expanded graphite (TEG) composite coated carbon felt (CF) as anode for MFCs. For this purpose, as-synthesized PEDOT:PSS/TEG composite was characterized using high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HR-SEM), Raman and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopies which indicated successful incorporation of TEG within PEDOT:PSS film. Furthermore, the electrochemical activity of the PEDOT:PSS/TEG coated CF was employed as the anode in the MFCs with sewage water as an anolyte. PEDOT:PSS/TEG@CF anode exhibited higher ion-transfer ability, superior bio-electrochemical conductivity, and excellent capacitance. Using the PEDOT:PSS/TEG@CF anode, we have constructed MFCs which exhibited good power (68.7 mW m−2) and current (969.3 mA m−2) densities compared to the unmodified CF based anode. The reliability of the MFCs performance was also investigated by testing three independently prepared MFCs with PEDOT:PSS/TEG@CF anodes which all showed a constant voltage (∼540 mV) due to the higher stability and biocompatibility of PEDOT:PSS/TEG@CF.
Ion Selective Electrode Mediated by Transfer Layer of Graphene Oxide for Detection of Ca2+ with Highly Sensitivity and Selectivity
Authors: Liu Yuandong , Zhang Limin , Mo Jingwen , Zhou Yi , Tian Yang
Published: January 2022

A Ca2+ selective microelectrode was proposed through electrodepositing graphene oxide (GO) on carbon fiber as an efficient ion-electron transfer layer. The gold leaves were further synthesized at GO surface to increase the specific surface area, and provide a substrate for assembly of the specific ligands for Ca2+. GO with negatively charges greatly facilitated the electron transfer process from the recognition center to electrode surface, resulting in the apparently enhanced sensitivity towards Ca2+. Moreover, the developed ion-selective microelectrode exhibited good selectivity to Ca2+, and a good linear range from 10 μM to 10 mM with a detection limit of 5.91 ± 0.46 μM.
The Alternative Voltammetric Method for the Determination of Nicotine and Its Metabolite Nicotine N-Oxide
Authors: Dushna Olha , Dubenska Liliya , Plotycya Serhiy , Rydchuk Mariana , Blazheyevskіy Mykola
Published: January 2022

In the present paper, for the first time, the electrochemical behaviour of nicotine metabolite nicotine N-oxide (NNO) on static mercury dropping electrode (SMDE) and mercury meniscus modified silver solid amalgam electrode (m-AgSAE) has been reported. Nicotine N-oxide is reduced forming one peak at the potential −0.78 V on SDME and −0.86 V on m-AgSAE in Britton-Robinson buffer medium at pH 4.5 using cyclic voltammetry (CV). One electron and one proton take part in the reaction of NNO reduction. Calibration graphs for NNO determination using linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) on SDME and square-wave voltammetry (SWV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) on m-AgSAE were obtained. Limit of detection (LOD) is 0.13 μM on SDME, and 0.16 μM (SWV) and 0.29 μM (DPV) on m-AgSAE. Since NNO can be used as an analytical form for nicotine voltammetric determination, so the developed methods were applied for the analysis of pharmaceutical preparations, and the recoveries from 97.3% to 104.6% were achieved. Also, the elaborated methods were used in the analysis of biological fluids, and tobacco products. The obtained results were compared to those indicated in the certificates of drugs analysis, and to the results, obtained by reference methods (HPLC and GC).
The Path of Film and Television Animation Creation Using Virtual Reality Technology under the Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Liu Xin , Pan Hua
Published: January 2022

The purpose is to provide a more reliable human-computer interaction (HCI) guarantee for animation works under virtual reality (VR) technology. Inspired by artificial intelligence (AI) technology and based on the convolutional neural network—support vector machine (CNN-SVM), the differences between animation works under VR technology and traditional animation works are analyzed through a comprehensive analysis of VR technology. The CNN-SVM gesture recognition algorithm using the error correction strategy is designed based on HCI recognition. To have better recognition performance, the advantages of depth image and color image are combined, and the collected information is preprocessed including the relations between the times of image training iterations and the accuracy of different methods in the direction of the test set. After experiments, the maximum accuracy of the preprocessed image can reach 0.86 showing the necessity of image preprocessing. The recognition accuracy of the optimized CNN-SVM is compared with other algorithm models. Experiments show that the accuracy of the optimized CNN-SVM has an upward trend compared with the previous CNN-SVM, and the accuracy reaches 0.97. It proves that the designed algorithm can provide good technical support for VR animation, so that VR animation works can interact well with the audience. It is of great significance for the development of VR animation and the improvement of people’s artistic life quality.
Notoginsenoside R1 Facilitated Wound Healing in High-Fat Diet/Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Cao Guangzhao , Xiang Changpei , Zhou Rui , Zhang Yi , Xu He , Yang Hongjun , Zhang Jingjing
Published: January 2022

Diabetic ulcers bring about high morbidity and mortality in patients and cause a great economic burden to society as a whole. Since existing treatments cannot fulfil patient requirements, it is urgent to find effective therapies. In this study, the wound healing effect of topical notoginsenoside R1 (NR1) treatment on diabetic full-thickness wounds in type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) was induced by the combination of a high-fat diet and streptozotocin (STZ) injection. NR1 significantly increased the wound closure rate, enhanced extracellular matrix (ECM) secretion, promoted collagen growth, increased platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (CD31) expression, and decreased cleaved caspase-3 expression. RNA-Seq analysis identified ECM remodeling and inflammation as critical biological processes and Timp1 and Mmp3 as important targets in NR1-mediated wound healing. Further experiments showed that NR1-treated wounds demonstrated higher expression of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP1) and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGFβ1) and lower expression of matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP9), matrix metallopeptidase 3 (MMP3), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) than diabetic wounds. These investigations promote the understanding of the mechanism of NR1-mediated diabetic wound healing and provide a promising therapeutic drug to enhance diabetic wound healing.
A New Perspective on the Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease and Sleep Deprivation-Related Consequences: Can Curcumin Help?
Authors: Küpeli Akkol Esra , Bardakcı Hilal , Yücel Çiğdem , Şeker Karatoprak Gökçe , Karpuz Büşra , Khan Haroon
Published: January 2022

Sleep disturbances, as well as sleep-wake rhythm disorders, are characteristic symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) that may head the other clinical signs of this neurodegenerative disease. Age-related structural and physiological changes in the brain lead to changes in sleep patterns. Conditions such as AD affect the cerebral cortex, basal forebrain, locus coeruleus, and the hypothalamus, thus changing the sleep-wake cycle. Sleep disorders likewise adversely affect the course of the disease. Since the sleep quality is important for the proper functioning of the memory, impaired sleep is associated with problems in the related areas of the brain that play a key role in learning and memory functions. In addition to synthetic drugs, utilization of medicinal plants has become popular in the treatment of neurological diseases. Curcuminoids, which are in a diarylheptanoid structure, are the main components of turmeric. Amongst them, curcumin has multiple applications in treatment regimens of various diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, obesity, cancer, inflammatory diseases, and aging. Besides, curcumin has been reported to be effective in different types of neurodegenerative diseases. Scientific studies exclusively showed that curcumin leads significant improvements in the pathological process of AD. Yet, its low solubility hence low bioavailability is the main therapeutic limitation of curcumin. Although previous studies have focused different types of advanced nanoformulations of curcumin, new approaches are needed to solve the solubility problem. This review summarizes the available scientific data, as reported by the most recent studies describing the utilization of curcumin in the treatment of AD and sleep deprivation-related consequences.
The Colombian Strain of Trypanosoma cruzi Induces a Proinflammatory Profile, Neuronal Death, and Collagen Deposition in the Intestine of C57BL/6 Mice Both during the Acute and Early Chronic Phase
Authors: do Carmo Neto José Rodrigues , da Costa Arthur Wilson Florêncio , Braga Yarlla Loyane Lira , Lucio Fernanda Hélia , dos Santos Martins Ana Luisa Monteiro , dos Reis Marlene Antônia , de Oliveira Flávia Aparecida , Celes Mara Rúbia Nunes , da Silva Marcos Vinicius , Oliveira Milton Adriano Pelli , Machado Juliana Reis
Published: January 2022

The objective of this study was to evaluate the histopathological changes caused by infection with the Colombian strain of Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi) in the acute and chronic experimental phases. C57Bl/6 mice were infected with 1000 trypomastigote forms of the Colombian strain of T. cruzi. After 30 days (acute phase) and 90 days (early chronic phase) of infection, the animals were euthanized, and the colon was collected and divided into two parts: proximal and distal. The distal portion was used for histopathological analysis, whereas the proximal portion was used for quantification of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. In addition, the weight of the animals and parasitemia were assessed. The infection induced gradual weight loss in the animals. In addition, the infection induced an increase in interferon gamma (IFNγ) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in the intestine in the acute phase, in which this increase continued until the early chronic phase. The same was observed in relation to the presence of intestinal inflammatory infiltrates. In relation to interleukin (IL)-10, there was an increase only in the early chronic phase. The Colombian strain infection was also able to induce neuronal loss in the myenteric plexus and deposition of the collagen fibers during the acute phase. The Colombian strain of T. cruzi is capable of causing histopathological changes in the intestine of infected mice, especially in inducing neuronal destructions. Thus, this strain can also be used to study the intestinal form of Chagas disease in experimental models.
Distraction Osteogenesis of Severely Resorbed Mandible
Authors: Sakka Salah , Al Rafedah Ali , Alqhtani Nasser , Alenazi Adel
Published: January 2022

Edentulous patients require an adequate rehabilitation so that the alveolar ridge in the interforaminal region be restored for subsequent implant-supported overdentures. The ultimate goal of distraction is to reconstruct the alveolar ridge to a suitable height and width compatible with Atwood class 2 in an appropriate direction allowing the sagittal interalveolar relation to be normally restored. Methods. A 65-year-old man presented with a grade 4 Mandibular atrophy as per Atwood classification which resulted in unsatisfactory treatment with full dentures. Endo-Distractor Krenkel® device was used for anterior mandibular vertical distraction osteogenesis. Four mandibular implants (ITI Straumann, Basel, Switzerland) measuring diameter

Ø
=
4.1

 mm and length

L
=
16
 

mm were inserted after the required retention period. Standardized prosthetic treatment was completed with titanium bar retained over dentures. Results. A distraction of 11 mm was achieved within 18 days followed by a retention period of 4 months. No signs of infection nor distractor anchorage loosening were detected, and minimal lingual tilting has occurred. Conclusion. Distraction is possible on severely atrophic mandibles. The quality of bone reconstruction is satisfactory for both functional and esthetic results.
Study on Pressure Relief Technology of High-Pressure Water Jet of Residual Coal Pillar in Overlying Goaf in Close Seam Mining
Authors: Yang Shang , Li Xuehui , Wang Jun , Yang Shuhao , Shen Zhen , Xu Guangzheng
Published: January 2022

To solve the problem of strong ground pressure behaviour under a residual coal pillar in the overlying goaf of a close-distance coal seam, this paper proposes the technology of weakening and relieving the residual coal pillar in the overlying goaf by a high-pressure water jet. Based on the geological occurrence of the No. 3 coal seam and mountain No. 4 coal seam in the Yanzishan coal mine, the high-pressure water jet pressure relief technology of residual coal pillars in the overlying goaf of close-distance coal seams was studied by theoretical analysis and field industrial tests. First, the elastic-plastic zone of the residual coal pillar and the stress distribution law of the floor are obtained by theoretical analysis, and the influence degree of the residual coal pillar on the support of the lower coal seam working face is revealed. Then, a high-pressure water jet combined with mine pressure is proposed to weaken the residual coal pillar. Finally, through the residual coal pillar hydraulic cutting mechanical model and “double-drilling double-slot” model, the high-pressure water jet drilling layout parameters are determined, and an industrial field test is carried out. The single knife cutting coal output and 38216 working face hydraulic support monitoring data show that high-pressure hydraulic slotting can weaken the strength of the coal body to a certain extent, destroy the integrity of the residual coal pillar, cut off the load transmission path of the overlying strata, and reduce the working resistance of the hydraulic support under the residual coal pillar to a certain extent, which is beneficial to the safe mining of the working face.
lncRNA SNHG15 Induced by SOX12 Promotes the Tumorigenic Properties and Chemoresistance in Cervical Cancer via the miR-4735-3p/HIF1a Pathway
Authors: Yang Jiang , Yang Mei , Lv Huabing , Zhou Min , Mao Xiaogang , Qin Xiaomin , Xu Ying , Li Lin , Xing Hui
Published: January 2022

Cervical cancer (CC) is one of the most common malignancies in females, with high prevalence and mortality globally. Despite advances in diagnosis and therapeutic strategies developed in recent years, CC is still a major health burden worldwide. The molecular mechanisms underlying the development of CC need to be understood. In this study, we aimed to demonstrate the role of lncRNA SNHG15 in CC progression. Using qRT-PCR, we determined that lncRNA SNHG15 is highly expressed in CC tumor tissues and cells. lncRNA SNHG15 knockdown also reduces the tumorigenic properties of CC in vitro, as determined using the MTT, EdU, flow cytometry, and transwell assays. Using bioinformatics analysis, RNA pull-down, ChIP, and luciferase reporter assays, we verified the molecular mechanisms of lncRNA SNHG15 in CC progression and found that lncRNA SNHG15 expression in CC cells is transcriptionally regulated by SOX12; moreover, lncRNA SNHG15 promotes CC progression via the miR-4735-3p/HIF1a axis. This study can provide a potential target for CC diagnosis or therapeutic strategies in the future.
The Relationship between Timing of Pretransplant Kidney Biopsy, Graft Loss, and Survival in Kidney Transplantation: An Italian Cohort Study
Authors: Odaldi Federica , Serenari Matteo , Comai Giorgia , La Manna Gaetano , Bova Raffaele , Frascaroli Giacomo , Malvi Deborah , Maroni Lorenzo , Vasuri Francesco , Germinario Giuliana , Baraldi Olga , Capelli Irene , Cuna Vania , Sangiorgi Gabriela , D’Errico Antonietta , Del Gaudio Massimo , Bertuzzo Valentina Rosa , Zanfi Chiara , Sessa Maurizio , Ravaioli Matteo
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Kidney biopsy is performed to assess if an extended criteria graft can be used for transplantation. It may be performed before or after cross-clamping during organ procurement. This study aims to evaluate whether the timing of biopsy may modify cold ischemia times (CIT) and/or graft outcomes. Methods: Kidney transplants performed in our center from January 2007 to December 2017 were analyzed. Grafts with preimplantation kidney biopsy were included. Biopsies were performed during surgical back table (ex situ kidney biopsy [ESKB]) until 2012 and since then before the aortic cross-clamping (in situ kidney biopsy [ISKB]). To overcome biases owing to different distributions, a propensity score model was developed. The study population consists in 322 patients, 115 ESKB, and 207 ISKB. Results: CIT was significantly lower for ISKB (730 min ISKB vs. 840 min ESKB, p value = 0.001). In both crude (OR 0.27; 95% confidence interval, 95% CI 0.12–0.60; p value = 0.002) and adjusted analyses (OR 0.37; 95% CI 0.14–0.94; p value = 0.039), ISKB was associated with a reduced odd of graft loss when compared to ESKB. Discussion/Conclusion: Performing preimplantation kidney biopsy during the recovery, prior to the aortic cross-clamping, may be a strategy to reduce CIT and improve transplant outcomes.
Combination of Reverse Shoulder Prosthesis, Elbow Prosthesis, and Polyetheretherketone: A Modified Total Humeral Replacement for Osteosarcoma Humerus Treatment
Authors: Tran Dung Trung , Tran Thanh Duc , Nguyen Son Ba , Nguyen Sang Quang Tran , Dang Quang Minh , Tran Cong Van
Published: January 2022

Total humeral replacement is a complex surgery that requires many challenges to overcome such as the weight of the implant material and the shoulder function due to extensive resection of the rotator cuff. Improvements in implants material that is lighter than usual can lead to higher surgery success rates. We present a patient who was diagnosed with osteosarcoma of the right humerus. The patient received 2 cycles of MAP chemotherapy (included: doxorubicin, cisplatin, and methotrexate) before surgery. He underwent radical resection of osteosarcoma and total humerus replacement with a modified total humeral material. The purpose of this improvement was to reduce the implant’s weight and to improve postoperative recovery. Six months after the surgery, the weight-bearing ability of the patient’s shoulder within a wide range of movement has restored; the shoulder, elbow, and hand can move in a controlled way. Despite the short postoperative follow-up time, the improvement in the modified technique has brought many positive results. Total humerus replacement, which combines the reverse shoulder prosthesis, elbow prosthesis, and polyetheretherketone, is an appropriate solution for patients with osteosarcoma of the humerus instead of custom-made humerus megaprosthesis.
Clinical Outcomes and Histological Patterns in Oxalate Nephropathy due to Enteric and Nonenteric Risk Factors
Authors: Reddy Swetha , Bolen Erin , Abdelmalek Mina , Lieske John C. , Ryan Maggie , Keddis Mira T.
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Current knowledge of risk factors and renal histologic patterns of oxalate nephropathy (ON) not due to primary hyperoxaluria (PH) has been limited to small case series and case reports. Thus, we analyzed and compared clinical risk factors, histologic characteristics, and renal outcomes of patients with biopsy-confirmed ON among a cohort of patients with enteric and nonenteric risk factors. Methods: A clinical data repository of native kidney pathology reports from 2009 to 2020 at all Mayo Clinic sites was used to identify 421 ON cases. Results: After excluding cases in transplanted kidneys or due to PH, 64 cases remained. Enteric risk factors were present in 30 and nonenteric in 34. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (17) and pancreatic insufficiency (6) were most common in the enteric hyperoxaluria group. In the nonenteric group, vitamin C (7) and dietary oxalate (7) were common, while no apparent risk was noted in 16. Acute kidney injury (AKI) stage III at the time of diagnosis was present in 60%, and 40.6% required dialysis. Patients in the nonenteric group had more interstitial inflammation (p = 0.01), and a greater number of tubules contained intratubular calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystals (p = 0.001) than the nonenteric group. Patients in the enteric group were more likely to have baseline chronic kidney disease (CKD) (p = 0.02) and moderate-to-severe tubulointerstitial fibrosis and atrophy (IFTA) (OR 3.49, p = 0.02). After a median follow-up of 10 months, 39% were dialysis dependent, 11% received a kidney transplant, and 32% died. On univariate analysis, >10 tubules with CaOx crystals, baseline CKD, and AKI requiring dialysis correlated with the risk of dialysis, transplant, or death. On multivariate analysis, only AKI requiring dialysis correlated with adverse renal outcomes. Conclusion: This is the largest cohort study of ON not due to PH. Histologic features differ in patients with enteric versus nonenteric risks. Patients in the enteric group are more likely to have baseline CKD and significant IFTA, while patients in the nonenteric group were more likely to have a greater number of tubules with CaOx crystals and corresponding interstitial inflammation. AKI requiring dialysis at the time of diagnosis was the single most significant predictor of adverse renal outcome.
Standing, Transition, and Walking Ability in Older Adults: The Case for Independently Evaluating Different Domains of Mobility Function
Authors: Thomson Sherri , Badiuk Boyd , Parokaran Varghese Jessy , Thai Vanessa , McIlroy William E. , Van Ooteghem Karen
Published: January 2022

Background: Independent mobility is a complex behavior that relies on the ability to walk, maintain stability, and transition between postures. However, guidelines for assessment that details what elements of mobility to evaluate and how they should be measured remain unclear. Methods: Performance on tests of standing, sit-to-stand, and walking were evaluated in a cohort of 135 complex, comorbid, and older adults (mean age 87 ± 5.5 years). Correlational analysis was conducted to examine the degree of association for measures within and between mobility domains on a subset of participants (n = 83) able to complete all tasks unaided. Participants were also grouped by the presence of risk markers for frailty (gait speed and grip strength) to determine if the level of overall impairment impacted performance scores and if among those with risk markers, the degree of association was greater. Results: Within-domain relationships for sit-to-stand and walking were modest (rho = 0.01–0.60). Associations either did not exist or relationships were weak for measures reflecting different domains (rho = −0.35 to 0.25, p > 0.05). As expected, gait speed differed between those with and without frailty risk markers (p < 0.001); however, balance and sit-to-stand measures did not (p ≥ 0.05). Conclusions: This study highlights the need to independently evaluate different mobility domains within an individual as a standard assessment approach. Modest within-domain relationships emphasize the need to account for multiple, unique control challenges within more complex domains. These findings have important implications for standardized mobility assessment and targeted rehabilitation strategies for older adults.
Association of Blood Group Antigen CD59 with Disease
Authors: Weinstock Christof
Published: January 2022

In 2014, the membrane-bound protein CD59 became a blood group antigen. CD59 has been known for decades as an inhibitor of the complement system, located on erythrocytes and on many other cell types. In paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH), a stem cell clone with acquired deficiency to express GPI-anchored molecules, including the complement inhibitor CD59, causes severe and life-threatening disease. The lack of CD59, which is the only membrane-bound inhibitor of the membrane attack complex, contributes a major part of the intravascular haemolysis observed in PNH patients. This crucial effect of CD59 in PNH disease prompted studies to investigate its role in other diseases. In this review, the role of CD59 in inflammation, rheumatic disease, and age-related macular degeneration is investigated. Further, the pivotal role of CD59 in PNH and congenital CD59 deficiency is reviewed.
Transitions in Social Network Types over Time among Older Adults
Authors: Sung Pildoo , Malhotra Rahul , Cheng Grand H.-L. , Chan Angelique Wei-Ming
Published: January 2022

Objective: Network typology studies have identified heterogeneous types of older adults’ social networks. However, little is known about stability and change in social network types over time. We investigate transitions in social network types among older adults, aged 60 years and older, and factors associated with such transitions. Methods: We used data on 1,305 older adults, participating in 2 waves of a national, longitudinal survey, conducted in 2016–2017 and 2019, in Singapore. Latent transition analysis identified the distinct types of social networks and their transition patterns between the waves. Multinomial logistic regression examined the association of baseline and change in physical, functional, and mental health and baseline sociodemographic characteristics with network transitions into more diverse or less diverse types. Results: We found 5 social network types at both waves, representing the most to the least diverse types – diverse, unmarried and diverse, extended family, immediate family, and restricted. Between waves, about 57% of respondents retained their social network type, whereas 24% transitioned into more diverse types and 19% into less diverse types. Those who were older and less educated and those with worsening functional and mental health were more likely to transition into less diverse types versus remaining in the same type. Discussion: The findings capture the dynamics in social network composition among older adults in the contemporary aging society. We highlight sociodemographic and health disparities contributing to later life social network diversity.
Elevated Risk of Mood Disorders after the Occurrence of Recurrent Retinal Detachment: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Lee Chia-Yi , Chen Hung-Chi , Huang Jing-Yang , Lai Chi-Chun , Yang Shun-Fa , Wu Wei-Chi
Published: January 2022

Introduction: The aim of this study was to investigate the risk of mood disorders in patients who experienced retinal detachment (RD) by using the National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan. Methods: Participants with a diagnosis of RD were regarded as the study group, and an age- and sex-matched group without a diagnosis of RD served as the control group. The outcomes related to mood disorders after RD included: (1) psychiatric outpatient department visits; (2) behavioural therapy; (3) sleep or anxiety-related disorders; and (4) major depressive disorder (MDD). Results: A total of 4,129 participants diagnosed with RD and 16,516 non-RD individuals were enrolled in the study. There were no significant differences in the four mood disorder-related outcomes between the study and control groups. However, the patients with recurrent RD who received more than two treatments and female patients with RD who needed surgical treatment showed a higher probability of developing MDD than did the non-RD subjects (incidence rate: 0.96 vs. 0.36; adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 2.382, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.032–5.496, log-rank p = 0.0325; and aHR: 6.895, 95% CI: 1.659–28.656, log-rank p = 0.0060, respectively). Conclusion: Patients with recurrent RD and multiple surgeries and females with RD who needed surgical treatment were at greater risk for developing MDD.
Cannabis for the Treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Report of 3 Cases
Authors: Mansell Holly , Quinn Declan , Kelly Lauren E. , Alcorn Jane
Published: January 2022

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic neurobehavioral disorder that is highly prevalent in children and adults. An increasing number of patients with ADHD are self-medicating with cannabis, despite a lack of evidence on efficacy and safety. This case report describes 3 males (ages 18, 22, and 23) who have integrated cannabis into their treatment regimen with positive results. Semistructured interviews conducted with the patients describe subjective improvements in symptoms and on quality of life. Improvements on validated rating scales conducted post-cannabis initiation, compared to pre-cannabis initiation obtained from the medical chart, corroborated their personal accounts. Scores on the PHQ-9 (measuring depression) improved by 8–22 points (30–81%), and the SCARED (measuring anxiety) ranged from 0 to 27 points (up to 33%). Improvements on the CEER-9 scale (measuring regulation) ranged from 2 to 7 points (22–78%), and the 9-item SNAP scale (measuring inattention) showed improvements of 2–8 points (7–30%). Mild adverse events including short-term memory problems, dry mouth, and sleepiness were reported. Blood samples were also collected from the patients to determine the plasma concentrations of the cannabinoids and relevant metabolites before and after a cannabis administration. After cannabis use, the plasma levels for CBD and THC ranged from 0 to 15.29 ng/mL and 1.32 to 13.76 ng/mL, respectively. Cannabinoids, however, were not detected prior to dosing, suggesting that cannabis played a complimentary role in the therapeutic regimen of these 3 patients. Clinical trials are recommended to confirm the efficacy of cannabis in the treatment of ADHD.
Aktinische Keratose: Tageslicht PDT zeigt umfassendes Wirkspektrum
Authors: Lehmann Percy
Published: January 2022

Actinic keratoses are a chronic condition in ultraviolet-damaged skin, with a risk of progressing to invasive skin cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate the preventive potential of field-directed repetitive daylight photodynamic therapy for actinic keratoses. A randomized trial was performed, including 58 patients with ≥5 actinic keratoses on photodamaged facial skin, who received either 5 full-face sessions of daylight photodynamic therapy within a period of 2 years or lesion-directed cryosurgery. Primary outcome was the mean cumulative number of new actinic keratoses developed between visits 2 and 6 (visit 6 being a follow-up). This outcome was lower after daylight photo-dynamic therapy (7.7) compared with cryosurgery (10.2), but the difference did not reach significance (–2.5, 95% confidence interval –6.2 to 1.2; p = 0.18). Several signs of photoageing (fine lines, pigmentation, roughness, erythema, sebaceous gland hyperplasia) were significantly reduced after daylight photodynamic therapy, but not after cryosurgery. Significantly less pain and fewer side-effects were reported during daylight photodynamic therapy than during cryosurgery. This study found that repetitive daylight photodynamic therapy had photo-rejuvenating effects. However, the prevention of actinic keratoses by this therapy could not be proven in a statistically reliable manner.
Tourist Attractions Visitor Density Monitoring Platform
Authors: Rosyida Novita , Atmoko Rachmad Andri , Handoko Galih Panji , Widia I Dewa Made , Asriningtyas Salnan Ratih
Published: January 2022

Tourism is one of the sectors that have been hit hard during the current Covid-19 pandemic. However, in 2021 the tourism sector is slowly rising marked by the number of tourist attractions that are starting to open to the public with the implementation of strict health protocols. However, in practice there are still many cases of violations of health protocols in various tourist attractions, ranging from the undisciplined use of masks, not keeping a distance (social distancing), and the absence of setting the ideal number of visitors during a pandemic like the current one. Managers of tourist attractions tend to ignore restrictions on the number of visitors due to the absence of an management system to run. There needs to be an application that can inform the condition of visitors to tourist attractions in real-time so that people have self-awareness of their personal health so that people can make early plans before traveling. In good governance, this application contributes to controlling the risk of Covid-19 transmission originating from crowded centers (tourist spots). The government can easily monitor the distribution of tourist visitor density in the area so that it can then be used as a basis for carrying out policies and handling in the field.

This study proposes the development of an application platform (software and hardware) monitoring the density of visitors to tourist attractions using the concept of object detection based on image processing and deep learning. The integration of hardware with web-based software will provide information on the density of visitors to tourist attractions that are easily accessible to the public so that they are expected to contribute to the handling of the current Covid-19 pandemic.