bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Ensemble Learning Method for the Kernel‐Based Nonlinear Multivariate Grey Model and its Application in Forecasting Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Authors: Wang Lan , Li Nan , Xie Ming
Published: March 2022

The global warming problem caused by greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions has aroused wide public concern. In order to give policy makers more power to set the specific target of GHG emission reduction, we propose an ensemble learning method with the least squares boosting (LSBoost) algorithm for the kernel‐based nonlinear multivariate grey model (KGM) (1, N), and it is abbreviated as BKGM (1, N). The KGM (1, N) has the ability to handle nonlinear small‐sample time series prediction. However, the prediction accuracy of KGM (1, N) is affected to an extent by selecting the proper regularization parameter and the kernel parameter. In boosting scheme, the KGM (1, N) is used as a base learner, and the use of early stopping method avoids overfitting the training dataset. The empirical analysis of forecasting GHG emissions in 27 European countries for the period 2015–2019 is carried out. Overall error analysis indicators demonstrate that the BKGM (1, N) provides remarkable prediction performance compared with original KGM (1, N), support vector regression (SVR), and robust linear regression (RLR) in estimating GHG emissions.
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on Randomized Control Trials for Preoperative Rehabilitation in Patients Planning for Joint Replacement Surgery for Better Outcomes
Authors: Yin Haibo , Chen Bin , Xu Zhu
Published: March 2022

Background. The clinical influence of the preoperative and postoperative therapies for recovery after the joint replacement surgery is still questionable. This study of systematic review and meta-analysis focuses on analyzing the clinical effects of preoperative rehabilitation among the patients who are planning to opt for joint replacement surgery for enhanced results. Objective. Randomized clinical trials were selected where preoperative therapeutic exercises were performed by adults for preoperative rehabilitation in patients who were planning for replacement surgery for better outcomes and identified through databases and screening. Two reviewers were responsible for extracting appropriate studies, relevant data, assessing the risks, therapeutic validity, etc. Material and Methods. We performed random-effects meta-analysis for calculation of risk ratios and odds ratios, for knee and hip surgery cases. Analysis of length of hospital stay, short-term-based recovery period during hospital stay, total hip replacement functional recovery during hospital stay, short-term recovery of self-reported functioning, etc. was performed. Results. Functional scores, postoperative pain, recovery time, length of hospital stay, and quality of life were studied. Of the seven studies included, the data of 614 patients were studied. The total number of participants in both exercise and control groups was analyzed to assess the bias of the study where the risk ratio was 0.96 and (0.74–1.25) was the 95% CI. Short-term-based recovery period during hospital stay for knee replacement was analyzed where 0.87 was the risk ratio and (0.61–1.23) was the 95% CI and for hip replacement where 0.99 was the risk ratio and (0.68–1.44) was the 95% CI. The RR for total hip replacement functional recovery during hospital stay was 0.80 with 95% CI (0.54–1.19). The RR for short-term recovery of self-reported functioning was 0.98 with 95% CI (0.76–1.26). Outcome analysis for pain and functionality evaluation was performed and assessed using WOMAC, HOOS, and HHS scores where the standardized mean difference was 0.38 and (0.20–0.57) was the 95% CI in hip surgery pain analysis and in knee surgery, 0.00 was the standardized mean difference and (−0.18–0.19) was the 95% CI. Conclusion. Long-term outcomes were not affected by the preoperative rehabilitation. Though there was a slight improvement in early postoperative pain, this is not much of clinical significance.
Evaluation and Analysis of Quantitative Architectural Space Index Based on Analytic Hierarchy Process
Authors: Tian Congxiang , Liu Xiancheng , Yang Yong , Zhu Guoqing
Published: March 2022

With the continuous development of the social economy, the urban residential structure is also changing, and people have higher and higher requirements for the living environment. Moreover, the landscape construction of public spaces in cities is an important part of the city. It is easy to neglect the comprehensive consideration of historical development and regional culture in architectural projects. The overall lack of individuality in urban design, the lack of characteristics of adapting measures to local conditions, and the blind emphasis on architectural landscaping have led to a serious lack of regional cultural characteristics and spiritual culture in public places. Therefore, in terms of the problems of insufficient landscape construction quality and green concepts being insufficient in the construction environment of cities, an evaluation method system is established in the paper to further study the shortcomings of the scenic area architecture. What is more, relying on the personal experience of the users in the scenic spot and understanding the real needs of the public space landscape environment around the scenic spot, scientific methods and a complete system are applied to make an overall assessment of the public space in the built residential area. Besides, according to the data analysis of the simulation experiment, the advantages and disadvantages of the public space in the residential area are extracted. Combined with the current research status, the green concept design strategy of the public space landscape environment in the scenic spot is summarized. Lastly, according to the data analysis of the simulation experiment, the evaluation satisfaction of the activity atmosphere, plant configuration, and overall layout is improved by 4.2%, 3.7%, and 3.1% compared with other methods, which proves that this study has a more reasonable planning program to meet the various needs of public open space. The development of urban landscape design provides a valuable reference.
Establishment and Comprehensive Analysis of Underlying microRNA-mRNA Interactive Networks in Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Ye Gengchen , Feng Shuyue , Yang Yufei , Cao Zhengzhi , Zhang Beilei , Wang Fu
Published: March 2022

Background. The rate of ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the highest in women's reproductive systems. An improperly expressed microRNA (miRNA) has been discovered to have a vital role in the pathophysiology of OC. However, more research into OC's miRNA-message RNA (mRNA) gene interaction network is required. Methods. Firstly, the microarray data sets GSE25405 and GSE119055 from the GEO (Gene Expression Omnibus) database were downloaded and then analyzed with the GEO2R tool aiming at identifying DEMs (differential expressed miRNAs) between ovarian malignant tissue and ovarian normal tissue. The whole consistently changed miRNAs were then screened out to be candidate DEMs. For estimating underlying upstream transcription factors, FunRich was employed. miRNet was utilized to determine putative DEMs' downstream target genes. The R program was then used to do the GO annotation as well as the analysis of KEGG pathway enrichment for target genes. The PPI (protein-protein interaction), as well as the DEM-hub gene networks, were created by the Cytoscape software and STRING database. Finally, we chose the GSE74448 dataset to test the precision of hub gene expressions. Results. We have screened out six (five upregulated and one downregulated) DEMs. The majority of upregulated and downregulated DEMs are likely regulated by SP1 (specificity protein 1). SP4 (s protein 4), POU2F1 (POU class 2 homeobox 1), MEF2A (myocyte-specific enhancer factor 2A), ARID3A (AT-rich interaction domain 3A), and EGR1 (early growth response 1) can regulate upregulated and downregulated DEMs. We have found 807 target genes (656 upregulated and 151 downregulated DEM), being generally enriched in focal adhesion and proteoglycans in cancer, gastric cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, as well as breast cancer. The majority of hub genes are projected to be controlled by hsa-miR-429, hsa-miR-140-5p, hsa-miR-199a-5p, and hsa-miR-199a-3p after the DEM-hub gene network was built. VEGFA (vascular endothelial growth factor A), EZH2 (enhancer of zeste 2 polycomb repressive complex 2 subunit), and HIF1A (hypoxia inducible factor 1 subunit alpha) expressions are consistent with the GSE74448 dataset in the first 18 hub genes. Conclusion. We have built an underlying miRNA-mRNA interacting network in OC, giving us unparalleled insight into the disease's diagnosis and treatment.
Technical Feasibility of Supervision of Stretching Exercises by a Humanoid Robot Coach for Chronic Low Back Pain: The R‐COOL Randomized Trial
Authors: Blanchard Agathe , Nguyen Sao Mai , Devanne Maxime , Simonnet Mathieu , Le Goff-Pronost Myriam , Rémy-Néris Olivier
Published: March 2022

Adherence to exercise programs for chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a major issue. The R‐COOL feasibility study evaluated humanoid robot supervision of exercise for CLBP. Aims are as follows: (1) compare stretching sessions between the robot and a physiotherapist (control), (2) compare clinical outcomes between groups, and (3) evaluate participant perceptions of usability and satisfaction and therapist acceptability of the robot system. Prospective, randomized, controlled, single‐blind, 2‐centre study comparing a 3‐week (3 hours/day, 5 days/week) physical activity program. Stretching sessions (30 minutes/day) were supervised by a physiotherapist (control) or the robot. Primary outcome: daily physical activity time (adherence). Secondary outcomes: lumbar pain, disability and fear and beliefs, participant perception of usability (system usability scale) and satisfaction, and physiotherapist acceptability (technology acceptance model). Clinical outcomes were compared between groups with a Student t‐test and perceptions with a Wilcoxon test. Data from 27 participants were analysed (n = 15 control and n = 12 robot group). Daily physical activity time did not differ between groups, but adherence declined (number of movements performed with the robot decreased from 82% in the first week to 72% in the second and 47% in the third). None of the clinical outcomes differed between groups. The median system usability scale score was lower in the robot group: 58 (IQR 11.8) points vs. 87 (IQR 9.4) in the control group at 3 weeks (p < 0.001). Median physiotherapist rating of the technology acceptance model was <3 points, suggesting a negative opinion of the robot. In conclusion, adherence to robot exercise reduced over time; however, lumbar pain, disability, or fear and beliefs did not differ between groups. The results of the participant questionnaires showed that they were willing to use such a system, although several technical issues suggested the KERAAL system could be improved to provide fully autonomous supervision of physical activity sessions.
Analysis of Stemness and Prognosis of Subtypes in Breast Cancer Using the Transcriptome Sequencing Data
Authors: Chen Wei , Hong Zhipeng , Kang Shaohong , Lv Xinying , Song Chuangui
Published: March 2022

The stem characteristics of tumor cells have been proposed in theory very early, and we can use the signature of gene expression to speculate the stemness of tumor cells. However, systematic studies on the stemness of breast cancer as well as breast cancer subtypes, and the relationship between stemness and metastasis and prognosis, are still lacking. In the present research, using the transcriptome data of patients with breast cancer in the TCGA database, a stemness prediction model was utilized to derive the stemness of the patients’ tumors. We compared the stemness values among different subtypes and the differences with metastasis. COX regression was employed to evaluate the correlation between stemness value as well as prognosis. Using the Lasso-penalized Cox regression machine learning model, we obtained the gene signature of the basal subtype that is related to stemness and can also predict the prognosis of the patient. Patients can be stratified into two groups of high and low stemness, corresponding to good and poor prognosis. Based on further prediction of tumor infiltration by CIBERSORT and prediction of drug response by a connectivity map, we found that the difference in stemness between these two groups is associated with the activation of tumor-killing immune cells and drug response. Our findings can promote the understanding and research of subtypes of basal breast cancer and provide corresponding molecular markers for clinical detection and therapy.
Ecofriendly Biosorbents Produced from Cassava Solid Wastes: Sustainable Technology for the Removal of Cd2+, Pb2+, and Crtotal
Authors: Schwantes Daniel , Junior Affonso Celso Gonçalves , Perina Henrique Alipio , Tarley César Ricardo Teixeira , Dragunski Douglas Cardoso , Junior Elio Conradi , Zimmermann Juliano
Published: March 2022

This research is aimed at investigating the possible use of cassava agroindustry solid wastes in manufacturing adsorbents and their use in removing heavy metals Cd2+, Pb2+, and Crtotal from water. Thus, a pilot study was conducted in two main steps: (1) obtaining and characterizing the adsorbents and (2) laboratory studies focused on the evaluation of critical physicochemical parameters on adsorption, such as pH of the solution containing heavy metals, the effect of adsorbent dose, besides kinetics and equilibrium adsorption and desorption studies. Three adsorbents were studied, cassava barks, bagasse, and their mixture. SEM, FTIR, pHPZC, acid digestion, and chemical composition analysis were employed for adsorbent characterization. The pH of the contaminated solution was evaluated within 4.0 to 7.0, while the adsorbent doses varied from 5.0 to 24.0 g L-1. The adsorption kinetics was evaluated within 5 to 180 minutes and interpreted using pseudofirst- and second-order models. Finally, equilibrium and desorption studies were performed by evaluating adsorbent performance within 5 to 200 mg L-1 of heavy metals, using several nonlinear models for results interpretation. SEM analysis reveals a heterogeneous structure full of cavities. FTIR before and after adsorption reveals gaps related to missing functional groups, suggesting a significant role of alkenes, carboxylic acid, alcohol, anhydride, and ether. pHPZC is found at pH 6.02, 6.04, and 6.26 for adsorbents derived from barks, bagasse, and their mixture. In low concentrations of metals, the higher adsorption capacities were found at pH 7.0 (94.9%) using 16 g L-1 of adsorbent, with the most cost-benefit dose found using 8.0 g L-1. The removal of metals reaches equilibrium within 5-10 minutes of contact time with pseudosecond-order best adjustments to the observed phenomena. The adsorption of metals by a cassava adsorbent is better adjusted to the Freundlich model, with significant and critical information provided by Sips, Redlich-Peterson, Temkin, Liu, and Khan models. Adsorption/desorption studies indicate that cassava adsorbent performs, on average, -10% of the adsorption of metals compared to activated carbon. Nevertheless, factors such as low cost and availability favor the use of such natural materials.
Analyzing the Patient Behavior for Improving the Medical Treatment Using Smart Healthcare and IoT-Based Deep Belief Network
Authors: Mohamed Rasha M. K. , Shahin Osama R. , Hamed Nadir O. , Zahran Heba Y. , Abdellattif Magda H.
Published: March 2022

Patient behavioral analysis is a critical component in treating patients with a variety of issues, with head trauma, neurological disease, and mental illness. The analysis of the patient's behavior aids in establishing the disease’s core cause. Patient behavioral analysis has a number of contests that are much more problematic in traditional healthcare. With the advancement of smart healthcare, patient behavior may be simply analyzed. A new generation of information technologies, particularly the Internet of Things (IoT), is being utilized to transform the traditional healthcare system in a variety of ways. The Internet of Things (IoT) in healthcare is a crucial role in offering improved medical facilities to people as well as assisting doctors and hospitals. The proposed system comprises of a variety of medical equipment, such as mobile-based apps and sensors, which is useful in collecting and monitoring the medical information and health data of patient and interact to the doctor via network connected devices. This research may provide key information on the impact of smart healthcare and the Internet of Things in patient beavior and treatment. Patient data are exchanged via the Internet, where it is viewed and analyzed using machine learning algorithms. The deep belief neural network evaluates the patient’s particulars from health data in order to determine the patient’s exact health state. The developed system proved the average error rate of about 0.04 and ensured accuracy about 99% in analyzing the patient behavior.
Modified Yuejuwan Inhibited Cholesterol Accumulation and Inflammation in THP-1 Macrophage-Derived Foam Cells by Inhibiting the Activity of the TRIM37/TRAF2/NF-κB Pathway
Authors: Gui Mingtai , Yao Lei , Lu Bo , Li Jianhua , Wang Jing , Zhou Xunjie , Fu Deyu
Published: March 2022

Background. This study aimed to explore the function of modified Yuejuwan (MYJ) on THP-1 macrophage-derived foam cells. Methods. First, human THP-cells were obtained, and then, grouping was made to the following: control group, foaming group, foaming group +0.2 mg/mL Jiawei Yueju pill, foaming group +0.5 mg/mL Jiawei Yueju pill, and foaming group +1 mg/mL Jiawei Yueju pill. An Oil Red O staining assay was used to examine the uptake of oxidatively modified low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL). The secretion of interleukin (IL)-1β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western blot were used to quantify genes and proteins expression levels. Results. Our results indicated that MYJ inhibited the accumulation of total cholesterol (TC), free cholesterol (FC), and cholesteryl ester (CE) in foam cells. Moreover, the secretion of IL-1β and TNF-α also downregulated in foam cells after treatment of MYJ. Furthermore, we found that tripartite motif-containing 37 (TRIM37) was significantly upregulated in foam cells. Knockdown of TRIM37 promoted cholesterol efflux and presented an anti-inflammation effect in foam cells. Furthermore, TRIM37 positively mediated the translocation of NF-κB to nuclear. It negatively regulated its ubiquitination in foam cells after interacting with TRAF2. Importantly, MYJ profoundly suppressed the function of TRIM37 in foam cells and functioned as a TRIM37 inhibitor. Conclusions. This study demonstrated that MYJ might alleviate oxLDL-induced foam cell formation by inhibiting the TRIM37/TRAF2/NF-κB pathway activity. MYJ was a potential agent in preventing atherosclerosis and indicated its potential signaling pathway in foam cells.
Prediction Method for the Ground Vibration Damage Boundary of Thick and Hard Rock Layer Fracture Type Mine Quakes
Authors: Zhang Ming , Hu Xuelong , Tu Min , Yue Yong , Bu Qingwei
Published: March 2022

In this study, based on the example of the ground vibration damage response of a thick and hard rock layer fracture type mine quake, and by applying the theories of mine pressure, rock mechanics and vibration energy principle, the concept of “vibration damage boundary” of mine quake ground, which uses particle vibration velocity to evaluate the vibration damage, is proposed. In addition, the quantitative prediction method of the ground vibration damage boundary is preliminarily established. The research results reveal that the elastic deformation of the fixed support end of the thick and hard rock layer structure in the stope is the main energy source for the formation of mine quakes, and that the particle vibration velocity caused by the propagation of focal energy to the ground can reasonably reflect the response degree of vibration damage. The proposed prediction method considers the “instantaneous” motion characteristics of mining thick and hard rock layer and the dynamic load effect of “mine quakes.” The method can deepen our understanding of mining ground damage prediction, and increase the reliability of ground damage boundary prediction. Finally, the results are used to predict the ground vibration damage boundary of limestone primary fracture in the longwall 16101 face of the Fuping Coal Mine.
Prenatal Betamethasone Exposure and its Impact on Pediatric Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: A Preliminary Study in a Spanish Cohort
Authors: Perna-Barrull David , Murillo Marta , Real Nati , Gomez-Muñoz Laia , Rodriguez-Fernandez Silvia , Bel Joan , Puig-Domingo Manel , Vives-Pi Marta
Published: March 2022

Background. Betamethasone, a glucocorticoid used to induce lung maturation when there is a risk of preterm delivery, can affect the immune system maturation and type 1 diabetes (T1D) incidence in the progeny. It has been described that prenatal betamethasone protects offspring from experimental T1D development. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the possible association between betamethasone prenatal exposure and T1D in humans. Research Design and Methods. A retrospective case-control study with a total of 945 children, including 471 patients with T1D and 474 healthy siblings, was performed. Participants were volunteers from the Germans Trias i Pujol Hospital and DiabetesCero Foundation. Parents of children enrolled in the study completed a questionnaire that included questions about weeks of gestation, preterm delivery risk, weight at birth, and prenatal betamethasone exposure of their children. Multiple logistic regression was used to detect the association between betamethasone exposure and T1D. Results. We compared T1D prevalence between subjects prenatally exposed or unexposed to betamethasone. The percent of children with T1D in the exposed group was 37.5% (21 of 56), and in the unexposed group was 49.52% (410 of 828) (

p
=
0.139

). The percentage of betamethasone-treated subjects with T1D in the preterm group (18.05%, 13 of 72) was significantly higher than that found in the control group (12.5%, 9 of 72) (

p
=
0.003

). The odds ratio for T1D associated with betamethasone in the univariate logistic regression was 0.59 (95% confidence interval, 0.33; 1.03 [

p
=
0.062

]) and in the multivariate logistic regression was 0.83 (95% confidence interval, 0.45; 1.52 [

p
=
0.389

]). Conclusions. The results demonstrate that the prenatal exposure to betamethasone does not increase T1D susceptibility, and may even be associated with a trend towards decreased risk of developing the disease. These preliminary findings require further prospective studies with clinical data to confirm betamethasone exposure effect on T1D risk.
Quality Evaluation of Pulsatilla chinensis Total Saponin Extracts via Quantitative Analysis of Multicomponents by Single Marker Method Combined with Systematic Quantified Fingerprint Method
Authors: Chen Long , Liu Suzhen , Feng Shuhan , Zhou Liangliang , Chen Zhenhua
Published: March 2022

Chinese medicine extracts are complex in composition. The combination of the quantitative analysis of multicomponents by single marker (QAMS) and the systematic quantified fingerprint method (SQFM) can be used for better quantitative analysis. The contents of Pulsatilla saponin D, Pulsatilla saponin A, Pulsatilla saponin F, and oleanolic acid 3-o-β-d-pyranoglucosyl-(1⟶4)-β-d-pyranoglucosyl-(1⟶3)-α-l-pyridine rhamnosyl-(1⟶2)-α-l-pyranosine arabinoside (B9) were determined by HPLC and QAMS. The methodological verification was carried out. The relative correction factor (RCF) was calculated, and the reproducibility of the RCF was investigated. The experimental results of the external standard method (ESM) and the QAMS were compared. Meanwhile, the fingerprint of the extract of Pulsatilla chinensis total saponins was established and the quality of the extract was evaluated by SQFM and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA). The results showed that there was no significant difference between the QAMS and ESM. QAMS could be used for the rapid determination of various saponins in the extract of Pulsatilla chinensis. SQFM and HCA could objectively and comprehensively reflect the overall quality difference of total saponin extract of Pulsatilla chinensis. Therefore, QAMS and SQFM could provide a more convenient and effective selection for the quality evaluation of total saponin extract from this plant.
[Retracted] Research on Information Propagation Model in Social Network Based on BlockChain
Authors: Zhao Yan , Bin Sheng , Sun Gengxin
Published: March 2022

With the development of blockchain technology, many new social networks based on blockchain technology have emerged. The unique consensus mechanism and incentive mechanism of blockchain technology makes the law of information propagation in the new social network different from that in the traditional social network. Based on the information propagation characteristics of blockchain social network, this paper considers the influence of opposing groups of opinions, incentive mechanism and user’s conformity psychology in blockchain social network, and uses the evolutionary game to define the transfer process and probability between states and puts forward a new information propagation model. This paper analyses the influence of group density, state transition probability, and incentive policy on information transmission trends in the network through simulation experiments. The comparative experiment with the traditional model shows that the model in this paper can describe the propagation behaviour choices of different propagators under different incentive policies, which the traditional model cannot describe. Using the model in this paper to analyse the information propagation of blockchain social networks can effectively inhibit the propagation of inferior information and further build a good network public opinion environment.
Identification of CCL20 and LCN2 as Efficient Serological Tools for Detection of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Du Lin , Wang Manli , Li Hui , Li Na , Wang Fang
Published: March 2022

Objectives. To discover a more powerful diagnostic tool for the detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods. 16 extracellularly located candidates were selected by analyzing the expression array datasets in GEO. 10 of them were validated in clinical samples by ELISA. Differences of each variable were compared by one-way ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis test. CCL20 and LCN2 were determined in all samples (HCC, 167; liver cirrhosis, 106; and healthy control, 106) and finally chosen for the construction of the combination model by binary logistic regression. The models were first built using a comprehensive control, including both liver cirrhosis (LC) and healthy donors. Then, the models were rebuilt by using the LC group alone as a control. ROC analysis was performed to compare the diagnostic efficiency of each indicator. Results. Levels of CCL20 and LCN2 in HCC sera were significantly higher than those in all controls. Using the comprehensive control, ROC curves showed that the optimum diagnostic cutoff of the CCL20 and LCN2 combination was 0.443 (area under curve (AUC) of 0.927 (95% CI 0.896-0.951), sensitivity of 0.808, specificity of 0.892, and accuracy of 0.859). For detection of HCC from LC control, the optimum diagnostic cutoff was 0.590 (AUC of 0.919 (95% CI 0.880-0.948), sensitivity of 0.814, specificity of 0.868, and accuracy of 0.834). Furthermore, the model maintained diagnostic accuracy for patients with HCC in the early stage, with the sensitivity and specificity of 0.75 and 0.77 from LC control, yet the AFP only reached 0.5 and 0.67, respectively. Conclusion. A combination model composed of CCL20 and LCN2 may serve as a more efficient tool for distinguishing HCC from nonmalignant liver diseases.
Efficacy of Crizotinib Combined with Chemotherapy in Treating Advanced Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer and Effect on Patients’ Quality of Life and Adverse Reaction Rate
Authors: Ma Zaiqi , Wang Yun , Sun Yonghua , Lin Gaoyang , Zhao Zhenqing
Published: March 2022

Purpose. To explore the efficacy of crizotinib combined with chemotherapy in treating advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and its effect on patients’ quality of life (QOL) and adverse reaction rate (ARR). Methods. 90 advanced NSCLC patients admitted to our hospital (from 01, 2019 to 01, 2020) were chosen as the research objects and randomly split into the control group (CG) and experimental group (EG) by flipping a coin, with 45 cases each. Chemotherapy was performed to CG, and the crizotinib treatment was introduced to EG on this basis, so as to compare their clinical efficacy, ARR and 3-year survival rate, and QOL before and after intervention by the Generic Quality of Life Inventory-74 (GQOLI-74). Results. Compared with CG, EG after treatment obtained obviously higher total clinical effective rate (

P

 < 0.001), lower total ARR (

P

 < 0.05), higher GQOLI-74 scores (

P

 < 0.001), and higher 3-year survival rate (

P

 < 0.05). Conclusion. Combining crizotinib with chemotherapy to advanced NSCLC patients can effectively improve the patients’ level of quality of life, prolong the long-term survival rate, and present a better effect than single chemotherapy. Further study is conducive to establishing a better treatment scheme for advanced NSCLC patients.
Daytime Sleepiness among Medical Colleges’ Students in Jordan: Impact on Academic Performance
Authors: Alqudah Mohammad , Balousha Samar A. M. , Balusha Abedallah A. K. , Al-U’datt Doa’a Ghazi , Saadeh Rami , Alrabadi Nasr , Alzoubi Karem
Published: March 2022

Introduction. Sleep disorders are extremely prevalent in the general population. College students are more susceptible to sleep problems. This is due to the increased competition in getting a job position and the current alterations in the labor market. Poor sleep is prevalent and has deleterious effects on college students, but its frequency among college students has not been documented in Jordan. So, the aims of this study are to assess the prevalence of daytime sleepiness among medical college students in Jordan and to look for any links between daytime sleepiness and academic performance. Methods. A cross-sectional study performed on medical and paramedical specialties students and Epworth sleepiness Sscale (ESS) was used. To assess the students’ academic performance, the cumulative grade point average was utilized. Results. 977 students from five medical colleges participated in the study. ESS scores were abnormal in 34.4% of students and were considered to have daytime sleepiness. Significant lower ESS scores were associated with students who reported good sleep quality than students who reported poor sleep quality. Significant lower ESS scores were reported by students who slept more than 7 hours compared with students who slept less than 6 hours. The ESS scores were not significantly associated with students’ CPGA. Conclusion. Daytime sleepiness is highly prevalent among medical students in Jordan. The data of this study might be very helpful to assess the academic policy makers to develop intervention strategies that resolve the sleep disturbances in college students and reduce its impact on the academic achievements.
Rock Deformation Estimated by Groundwater-Level Monitoring: A Case Study at the Xianshuihe Fault, China
Authors: Zhao Yuqing , Zhang You-Kuan , Liang Xiuyu , Shi Zheming , Yang Yonglin , Li Feifei
Published: March 2022

Rock deformations induced by active faults is an important topic in earthquake studies. Such deformations are usually measured with crossfault measurements (CFM), which are time-consuming and labor-intensive. In this study, rock deformations induced by the famous Xianshuihe fault in Xialatuo of China were estimated by groundwater-level monitoring (GLM) and CFM for the period of January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2018. The pattern of the variations in areal strain estimated with GLM matches that from CFM well. The estimated strain by the GLM and CFM both changed from positive to negative with time, indicating that the fault plane switched from tensile to compressive. This indicates that the rate of rock deformation had slowed down during this period, which is consistent with the long-term creep rates obtained by CFM at the site, implying that the fault may have gradually entered the next relock state. The estimated strain changes using the GLM method lag slightly behind those of CFM, which is probably due to the diffusive effects of pore pressure propagation that is caused by the rock deformation under the crustal stress. This study demonstrates that GLM is a more convenient and efficient addition to traditional geophysical techniques and raises the possibility for the characterization of continuous rock deformations. The method may be used to obtain the changing regional strain field with a network of monitoring wells.
A Laboratory Approach Considering Salinity to Investigate Archie’s Parameters in Deep Shale: A Case Study in Longmaxi Formation, Southern Sichuan
Authors: Li Yanran , Liu Xiangui , Cai Changhong , Hu Zhiming , Wu Bo , Mu Ying , Duan Xianggang , Zhang Qingxiu , Zeng Shuti , Guo Jingshu , Pu Zhijin
Published: March 2022

Archie’s parameters are substantial to be investigated in the evaluation of water saturation. Many researchers adhered to the opinion that Archie’s equation can still be applied to water saturation calculation in shale if the accuracy of relative parameters could be improved. External conditions, such as temperature, confining pressure, water salinity, wettability, and displacement, may influence the determination of Archie’s parameters. The aim of the study is to investigate the effect of salinity on Archie’s parameters and their correlation with mineral composition and pore structure. The mineral contents and petrophysical properties were firstly acquired through X-ray diffraction (XRD) and basic measurements. Rock-electric experiments under different salinity were conducted on deep shale samples taken from Longmaxi (LMX) Formation in Luzhou (LZ). The results indicate that Archie’s parameters of “

a

,” “

b

,” “

m

,” and “

n

” under actual brine salinity are assigned to 1.47, 1, 1.26, and 1.6, respectively. Our cementation factor is lower than that in other studies including (shaly) sandstones, carbonates, and shales, probably due to the extremely low porosity in study area. Salinity has a positive effect on cementation factor (

m

) and saturation exponent (

n

), suggesting the traditional assignment to Archie’s parameters is inappropriate. It was concluded that the complicated pore structure and high porosity mainly associated with clay mineral may trigger the increased cementation factor. Further mathematical derivations confirmed that the rock resistivity is inextricable from pore system and establish a physical model. The paper provides a solid evidence base for further understanding and evaluation of water saturation in unconventional shale reservoirs, more significantly, innovatively unveils the research into Archie formula in deep shale reservoirs of southern Sichuan basin.
Design and Application of Intelligent Financial Accounting Model Based on Knowledge Graph
Authors: Hou Xuechen
Published: March 2022

With the continuous progress of science and technology, economic globalization has become an important direction for the development of enterprises. In the process of enterprise development, artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques have greatly improved the efficiency of enterprise accounting and financial management and have gradually shifted traditional financial accounting to modern financial management and accounting. Owing to the existing problems of inefficiency, large consumption of time and resources, and low degree of intelligence in the existing computerized financial data prediction systems, this study proposes an intelligent financial accounting and a financial risk monitoring and early warning model based on knowledge graph and deep learning techniques. To validate its performance, the model is trained using financial data of 120 listed companies, and the model is applied to establish the prediction of whether the listed companies are facing a financial crisis, using another 60 companies as the test sample. Results show that the use of deep learning and knowledge graph techniques can significantly improve the regulatory model, enhance regulatory penetration, and alleviate regulatory time lag, thus improving the ability of regulation to detect enterprise problems and prevent risks.
Effect of the Articular Surface Incongruency on Surgical Outcome of the Distal Radius Fracture
Authors: Lee Chang-Hun , Kwon Youngmin , Jung Il Youn , Lee Bong-Gun , Kim Sung Jae
Published: March 2022

Purpose. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the joint fragment that mostly affects the outcome of the distal radius fracture surgically treated with a volar locking plate (VLP). Methods. The outcomes of 69 patients with the distal radius fractures were evaluated at their final follow‐up. The articular surface was divided into six specific fragments, and computed tomography (CT) was used to evaluate the degree of mismatch of each fragments. A plain radiograph was also obtained for evaluation of the distal radius alignment. Clinical outcomes were measured by using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) and Modified Mayo Wrist Score (MMWS). Univariate analyses were performed, with subsequent multiple logistic regression analyses. Results. The mean follow‐up period was 14.8 (range, 12 to 52) months. The group with a worse DASH score showed significantly greater mismatch in the volar and dorsal lunate facets, as well as the central depression of the distal radius (p = 0.042, 0.031, and 0.023, respectively). There was a significant positive correlation between the DASH score and degree of mismatch of the dorsal lunate facet and central depression of the distal radius (p = 0.040 and 0.011, respectively). Groups with worse MMWS showed significantly greater mismatch in the dorsal lunate facet (p = 0.025). There was a significant negative correlation between MMWS and abnormal ulnar variance and mismatch of the dorsal lunate facet and central depression of the distal radius (p = 0.041, 0.004, and 0.018, respectively). The result of multiple logistic regression analysis demonstrated that a mismatch of the dorsal lunate facet is a significant predictor for a worse MMWS (odds ratio = 3.072, p = 0.043). Conclusions. Articular surface mismatch of the dorsal lunate facet appears to mostly affect the surgical outcomes of the distal radius fractures using VLP. In cases where the dorsal lunate facet is heavily involved, surgeons should be cautious about its reduction and fixation.
Assessment of the Concentration of Endogenous Factors Regulating Angiogenesis, VASH‐1 and VEGF‐A, in the Blood Serum of Patients with Neuroendocrine Neoplasms
Authors: Strzelczyk Janusz , Wójcik-Giertuga Monika , Cuber Piotr , Biernacki Krzysztof , Kos-Kudła Beata , Strzelczyk Joanna Katarzyna
Published: March 2022

Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) constitute about 2% of all malignant neoplasms, and the angiogenesis process in these tumors is still of a great interest. Vasohibin‐1 (VASH‐1) is an angiogenesis inhibitor, while vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF‐A) is one of the main factors promoting vascular formation. The subject of this study was to assess serum concentration of these factors in patients with diagnosed NEN and in control group. Methods. The study group consisted of 120 patients with diagnosed NENs, while the control group consisted of 69 healthy volunteers. The concentrations of VASH‐1 and VEGF‐A in serum were tested using the ELISA. We also analyzed the association of the concentration of these factors with demographic data (e.g., age and gender), body mass index (BMI), primary tumor location, histological grade, metastasis, clinical staging, selected biochemical parameters and markers of NENs, and information on smoking habits. Results. The mean concentration of VASH‐1 was 218.8 ± 359.8 pg/ml in the study group and 973.1 ± 1239.4 pg/ml in the control group, that difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). In the NEN group, the highest concentration of VASH‐1 was in patients with pancreatic NENs in relation to NENs with different location of the primary tumor (p < 0.05). Negative correlation was found between the concentration of VASH‐1 and serotonin (rS = −0.19, p < 0.05). No statistically significant differences were observed for VEGF‐A (p = 0.658). Conclusions. Patients with NENs showed lower serum level of VASH‐1 in comparison to healthy volunteers. The highest level of VASH‐1 was observed in tumors localized in pancreas. This might reflect the relevant function of VASH‐1 in NENs and requires further evaluation to further knowledge of angiogenesis in NENs. Furthermore, the serum concentration of VEGF‐A showed no statistical differences and probably does not have diagnostic value in this group of patients.
Acetylshikonin, A Novel CYP2J2 Inhibitor, Induces Apoptosis in RCC Cells via FOXO3 Activation and ROS Elevation
Authors: Lim Heui Min , Lee Jongsung , Yu Seon Hak , Nam Myeong Jin , Cha Hyo Sun , Park Kyungmoon , Yang Yung-Hun , Jang Kyu Yun , Park See-Hyoung
Published: March 2022

Acetylshikonin is a shikonin derivative originated from Lithospermum erythrorhizon roots that exhibits various biological activities, including granulation tissue formation, promotion of inflammatory effects, and inhibition of angiogenesis. The anticancer effect of acetylshikonin was also investigated in several cancer cells; however, the effect against renal cell carcinoma (RCC) have not yet been studied. In this study, we aimed to investigate the anticarcinogenic mechanism of acetylshikonin in A498 and ACHN, human RCC cell lines. MTT (3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide), cell counting, and colony forming assay showed that acetylshikonin induced cytotoxic and antiproliferative effects in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Cell cycle analysis and annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) double staining assay indicated the increase of subG1 phase and apoptotic rates. Also, DNA fragmentation was observed by using the TUNEL and comet assays. The intracellular ROS level in acetylshikonin-treated RCC was evaluated using DCF-DA. The ROS level was increased and cell viability was decreased in a dose- and time-dependent manner, while those were recovered when cotreated with NAC. Western blotting analysis showed that acetylshikonin treatment increased the expression of FOXO3, cleaved PARP, cleaved caspase-3, -6, -7, -8, -9, γH2AX, Bim, Bax, p21, and p27 while decreased the expressions of CYP2J2, peroxiredoxin, and thioredoxin-1, Bcl-2, and Bcl-xL. Simultaneously, nuclear translocation of FOXO3 and p27 was observed in cytoplasmic and nuclear fractionated western blot analysis. Acetylshikonin was formerly identified as a novel inhibitor of CYP2J2 protein in our previous study and it was evaluated that CYP2J2 was downregulated in acetylshikonin-treated RCC. CYP2J2 siRNA transfection augmented that apoptotic effect of acetylshikonin in A498 and ACHN via up-regulation of FOXO3 expression. In conclusion, we showed that the apoptotic potential of acetylshikonin against RCC is mediated via increase of intracellular ROS level, activation of FOXO3, and inhibition of CYP2J2 expressions. This study offers that acetylshikonin may be a considerable alternative therapeutic option for RCC treatment by targeting FOXO3 and CYP2J2.
Structure Strength Dynamic Strain Measurement Acquisition System Based on Data Fusion
Authors: Shen Dawei , Pei Dongxing , Ma Tiehua
Published: March 2022

Strain measurement technology plays an irreplaceable role in measuring the force change characteristics of mechanical components and monitoring important engineering structures. In structural health monitoring, dynamic stress and strain testing is the main way to determine its overall fatigue, and excessive stress will seriously affect the strength of the structure, causing the structure to deform or even break, which will affect the reliability of the experiment and the use of workpieces, so it is of great significance to carry out dynamic stress and strain tests on the structure. Resistance strain measurement technology is widely used in the civil engineering industry, but the principles of modern physics technology are unknown to many practitioners. Data fusion technology or information fusion technology is also called multisensor fusion technology. Using computer technology to automatically analyze and integrate the data processing process of the detection data from multiple sensors according to time sequence and certain criteria, it can complete the required decision-making and judgment.
HPV and DNA Methylation Testing in Urine for Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia and Cervical Cancer Detection
Authors: van den Helder Rianne , Steenbergen Renske D.M. , van Splunter Annina P. , Mom Constantijne H. , Tjiong Ming Y. , Martin Ivonne , Rosier-van Dunné Fleur M.F. , van der Avoort Irene A.M. , Bleeker Maaike C.G. , van Trommel Nienke E.
Published: March 2022

Purpose:

Biomarker detection in urine offers a potential solution to increase effectiveness of cervical cancer screening programs by attracting nonresponders. In this prospective study, the presence of high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) DNA and the performance of DNA methylation analysis was determined for the detection of cervical cancer and high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN2/3) in urine, and compared with paired cervicovaginal self-samples and clinician-taken cervical scrapes.

Experimental Design:

A total of 587 samples were included from 113 women with cervical cancer, 92 women with CIN2/3, and 64 controls. Samples were tested for hrHPV DNA and five methylation markers. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression and leave-one-out cross-validation were used to determine the methylation marker performance for CIN3 and cervical cancer (CIN3+) detection in urine. Agreement between samples was determined using Cohen kappa statistics and the Spearman correlation coefficients.

Results:

HrHPV presence was high in all sample types, 79% to 92%. Methylation levels of all markers in urine significantly increased with increasing severity of disease. The optimal marker panel (ASCL1/LHX8) resulted in an AUC of 0.84 for CIN3+ detection in urine, corresponding to an 86% sensitivity at a 70% predefined specificity. At this threshold 96% (109/113) of cervical cancers, 68% (46/64) of CIN3, and 58% (14/24) of CIN2 were detected. Between paired samples, a strong agreement for HPV16/18 genotyping and a fair to strong correlation for methylation was found.

Conclusions:

HrHPV DNA and DNA methylation testing in urine offers a promising solution to detect cervical cancer and CIN2/3 lesions, especially for women currently unreached by conventional screening methods.