bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on Prediction of Investment Fund’s Performance before and after Investment Based on Improved Neural Network Algorithm
Authors: Gu Cong
Published: April 2021

There are more and more popular investment fund projects in the continuous economic development; the prediction and performance continuity become hot topics in the financial field. Scholars’ enthusiasm for this also reflects the domestic fund primary stage progress, and there is a huge application demand in China. The prediction of fund performance can help investors to avoid risks and improve returns and help managers to learn more unknown information from the prediction for the sake of guide market well and manage the market orderly. In the past research, the traditional way is to use the advantages of neural network to build a model to predict the continuous trend foundation performance, but the author found that the traditional single neural network (NN) algorithm has a large error value in the research. With the discussion, the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is added to the radial basis function (BRF) neural network, and PSO is conditioned to optimize and improve the RBF NN combining the advantages of both sides; a new set of PSO‐RBF neural network security fund performance prediction method is summed up, which optimizes the structure and workflow of the algorithm. In the research, the author takes the real data as the reference and compares the prediction results with the traditional method RBF and the improved PSO‐RBF. In the prediction results of the continuous trend, the highest value, and the lowest value in the period of the security fund performance, the new PSO‐RBF has a good prediction in the fund performance prediction, and its accuracy rate is greatly improved compared with the traditional method Sheng, with good application value, and is worth popularizing.
A Bioinformatic Analysis of Correlations between Polymeric Immunoglobulin Receptor (PIGR) and Liver Fibrosis Progression
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Lu Wenjun , Chen Xiaorong , Cao Yajuan , Yang Zongguo
Published: April 2021

Objective. This study is aimed at investigating the enriched functions of polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (PIGR) and its correlations with liver fibrosis stage. Methods. PIGR mRNA expression in normal liver, liver fibrosis, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), and hepatitis virus infection samples was calculated in Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and Oncomine databases. Enrichment analysis of PIGR‐related genes was conducted in Metascape and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). Logistic model and ROC curve were performed to evaluate the correlations between pIgR and liver fibrosis. Results. PIGR mRNA was upregulated in advanced liver fibrosis, cirrhosis compared to normal liver (all p < 0.05). PIGR mRNA was also overexpressed in activated HSCs compared to senescent HSCs, liver stem/progenitor cells, and reverted HSCs (all p < 0.05). Enrichment analysis revealed that PIGR‐related genes involved in the defense response to virus and interferon (IFN) signaling. In GEO series, PIGR mRNA was also upregulated by hepatitis virus B, C, D, and E infection (all p < 0.05). After adjusting age and gender, multivariate logistic regression models revealed that high PIGR in the liver was a risk factor for liver fibrosis (OR = 82.2, p < 0.001). The area under curve (AUC), positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), sensitivity, and specificity of PIGR for liver fibrosis stage >2 were 0.84, 0.86, 0.7, 0.61, and 0.90. Conclusion. PIGR was correlated with liver fibrosis and might involve in hepatitis virus infection and HSC transdifferentiation.
Cloud‐Based Fusion of Residual Exploitation‐Based Convolutional Neural Network Models for Image Tampering Detection in Bioinformatics
Authors: Doegar Amit , Hiriyannaiah Srinidhi , Siddesh G. M. , Srinivasa K. G. , Dutta Maitreyee
Published: April 2021

Cloud computing has evolved in various application areas such as medical imaging and bioinformatics. It raises the issues of privacy and tampering in the images especially related to the medical field and bioinformatics for various reasons. The digital images are quite vulnerable to be tampered by the interceptors. The credibility of individuals can transform through falsified information in the images. Image tampering detection is an approach to identifying and finding the tampered components in the image. For the efficient detection of image tampering, the sufficient number of features are required which can be achieved by a deep learning architecture‐based models without manual feature extraction of functions. In this research work, we have presented and implemented a cloud‐based residual exploitation‐based deep learning architectures to detect whether or not an image is being tampered. The proposed approach is implemented on the publicly available benchmark MICC‐F220 dataset with the k‐fold cross‐validation approach to avoid the overfitting problem and to evaluate the performance metrics.
Closed Compression Nailing Using a New-Generation Intramedullary Nail without Autologous Bone Grafting for Humeral Shaft Nonunion
Authors: Fukumoto Genta , Fukui Tomoaki , Oe Keisuke , Inui Atsuyuki , Mifune Yutaka , Kuroda Ryosuke , Niikura Takahiro
Published: April 2021

Introduction. Although the recommended treatment for humeral shaft nonunion is compression plating with autologous bone grafting, we treated a case of humeral shaft nonunion with an intramedullary nail (IMN) without bone grafting. Presentation of Case. Osteosynthesis with IMN was performed on a 24-year-old man with a humeral shaft fracture at another hospital. However, bony union was not obtained 1 year after the first surgery, and he was referred to our institution. We treated the nonunion with exchange nailing without autologous bone grafting using compression function of the nail, leading to bony union at 7 months postoperatively. At the final follow-up 2 years and 4 months postoperatively, the patient had full range of motion in the left shoulder and elbow joints. Discussion. Compression plating with autologous bone grafting is reported to be the gold standard for the treatment of humeral shaft nonunion. IMN is advantageous for minimal invasion; however, the conventional type of IMN cannot apply compression force between fragments and does not have sufficient stability against rotational force. In this case, we used an IMN that could apply compression between the fragments and which had rotational stability via many screws. We did not perform bone grafting because the current nonunion was adjudged to be biologically active, and we achieved good functional results. Conclusion. We treated humeral shaft nonunion using IMN with compression, but without bone grafting, leading to successful clinical outcomes. This strategy might be an appropriate choice for the treatment of humeral shaft nonunion with biological activity.
Urban Rail Transit System Network Reliability Analysis Based on a Coupled Map Lattice Model
Authors: Wu Shaojie , Zhu Yan , Li Ning , Wang Yizeng , Wang Xingju , Sun Daniel Jian
Published: April 2021

During the last twenty years, the complex network modeling approach has been introduced to assess the reliability of rail transit networks, in which the dynamic performance involving passenger flows have attracted more attentions during operation stages recently. This paper proposes the passenger-flow-weighted network reliability evaluation indexes, to assess the impact of passenger flows on network reliability. The reliability performances of the rail transit network and passenger-flow-weighted one are analyzed from the perspective of a complex network. The actual passenger flow weight of urban transit network nodes was obtained from the Shanghai Metro public transportation card data, which were used to assess the reliability of the passenger-flow-weighted network. Furthermore, the dynamic model of the Shanghai urban rail transit network was constructed based on the coupled map lattice (CML) model. Then, the processes of cascading failure caused by network nodes under different destructive situations were simulated, to measure the changes of passenger-flow-weighted network reliability during the processes. The results indicate that when the scale of network damage attains 50%, the reliability of the passenger-flow-weighted network approaches zero. Consequently, taking countermeasures during the initial stage of network cascading may effectively prevent the disturbances from spreading in the network. The results of the paper could provide guidelines for operation management, as well as identify the unreliable stations within passenger-flow-weighted networks.
Matching and Coordination among Elderly Services, Aging, and Economy in China
Authors: Cui Xiaodong , Chang Ching-Ter
Published: April 2021

Under the background of China getting old before getting rich, the elderly service, as a public project, should be coordinated with the degree of aging and economic level to avoid the improper allocation of public resources. This article aims to investigate whether an insufficient or overthreshold phenomenon exists in China. Firstly, based on the “active aging theory,” the elderly service index is constructed, and then matching and coordination models are proposed to obtain coordination degrees among aging, the elderly service, and the economy. In terms of coordination, elderly service-aging is at a low level and elderly service-economic level shows an agglomeration of high in the east and low in the west, while the elderly service-aging-economic level is quite different among provinces. In provinces with high coordination (e.g., Beijing and Guangdong), the elderly services are appropriate. In comparison, in provinces with low coordination, the elderly services may either lag behind the aging degree (e.g., Sichuan) or exceed the local economic level (e.g., Shannxi). Therefore, the development of aging services should focus on coordination rather than quantification and scale. Considering the regional heterogeneity, we can formulate soft constraints allowing a lower minimum limit and greater flexibility range.
Differential Privacy Location Protection Scheme Based on Hilbert Curve
Authors: Wang Jie , Wang Feng , Li Hongtao
Published: April 2021

Location-based services (LBS) applications provide convenience for people’s life and work, but the collection of location information may expose users’ privacy. Since these collected data contain much private information about users, a privacy protection scheme for location information is an impending need. In this paper, a protection scheme DPL-Hc is proposed. Firstly, the users’ location on the map is mapped into one-dimensional space by using Hilbert curve mapping technology. Then, the Laplace noise is added to the location information of one-dimensional space for perturbation, which considers more than 70% of the nonlocation information of users; meanwhile, the disturbance effect is achieved by adding noise. Finally, the disturbed location is submitted to the service provider as the users’ real location to protect the users’ location privacy. Theoretical analysis and simulation results show that the proposed scheme can protect the users’ location privacy without the trusted third party effectively. It has advantages in data availability, the degree of privacy protection, and the generation time of anonymous data sets, basically achieving the balance between privacy protection and service quality.
Investigation of Effects of Thermal Radiation, Magnetic Field, Eckert Number, and Thermal Slip on MHD Hiemenz Flow by Optimal Homotopy Asymptotic Method
Authors: Kejela Solomon Bati , Daba Mitiku , Girum Abebe
Published: April 2021

Analytical investigation of thermal radiation, Prandtl number, Eckert number, permeability parameter, magnetic field, velocity, and thermal slip effects on magnetohydrodynamic Hiemenz flow over a permeable plate with forced convection has been presented. Similarity variable conversion method has been applied to transmute the fundamental governing equations of the fluid dynamics in flow into a pair of nonlinear third-order ordinary differential equations and is analytically solved by the optimal homotopy asymptotic method (OHAM). The influences of several relevant physical parameters in the model on velocity and temperature of the fluid have been studied and analysed profoundly by use of graphs and tables. It is detected that, with mounting value of suction/blowing parameter and magnetic field parameter, the skin friction coefficient enhances. Likewise, it is seen that the Nusselt number increases with enhancing value of magnetic parameter. It is also witnessed that the velocity increases as the Eckert number, blowing/suction parameter, and permeability parameter increase, but it decays against magnetic field and velocity slip parameter. Moreover, the result reveals that the fluid temperature upsurges along with snowballing the radiant heat, magnetic field parameter, and the Eckert number. However, it descends against thermal slip parameter, Prandtl number, wall temperature exponent, and velocity slip parameter. A comparison with previous studies has been made, and the result shows an excellent agreement.
The Value of Ketone Bodies in the Evaluation of Kidney Function in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Li Yimei , Zhang Yongze , Shen Ximei , Zhao Fengying , Yan Sunjie
Published: April 2021

Objectives. Recent studies have shown that the slightly elevated circulating levels of ketone bodies (KBs) played a significant role in the treatment of various diseases. This study is aimed at investigating the association between different levels of KBs and kidney function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods. A retrospective study of 955 patients with T2DM (426 women and 529 men) admitted to our hospital from December 2017 to September 2019 was conducted. Patients were divided into different groups in line with the levels of KBs (low-normal group: 0.02-0.04 mmol/L, middle-normal group: 0.05-0.08 mmol/L, high-normal group: 0.09-0.27 mmol/L, and slightly elevated group: >0.27 and <3.0 mmol/L). Results. In the present study, individuals with high-normal levels of KBs had the lowest risk of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) and increased peak systolic velocity (PSV); those with middle-normal levels of KBs had the lowest risk of increased renal arterial resistive index (RI), with a positive correlation between increased α1-microglobulin and KB concentration. In addition, the indicators of glomerulus, renal tubules, and renal arteries were all poor with slightly elevated circulating levels of KBs, and KB concentration lower than 0.09 mmol/L can be applied as the threshold for low risk of renal function damage. Conclusions. In summary, slightly elevated circulating levels of ketone bodies are not of benefit for renal function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Modeling of Hidden Markov in Ultrasound Image-Assisted Diagnosis
Authors: Shao Liping , Zhou Zubang , Wu Hongmei , Ni Jinrong , Li Shulan
Published: April 2021

Different segmentation of lung nodules using the same segmentation algorithm can easily lead to excessive segmentation errors. Therefore, it is necessary to design an effective segmentation algorithm to improve image segmentation accuracy. Based on the hidden Markov model, this study processed the ultrasound images of pulmonary nodules to improve their diagnostic results. At the same time, this study was combined with the ultrasound image of lung nodules to process the ultrasound images. In addition, this study combines the convex hull algorithm for image processing, uses the improved vector method to repair, improves image recognizability, establishes a reliable feature extraction algorithm, and establishes a comprehensive diagnostic model. Finally, this study designed the test for performance analysis. Through experimental research, it can be seen that the model constructed in this study has certain clinical effects and can provide theoretical reference for subsequent related research.
Appropriateness and Pattern of Antibiotic Prescription in Pediatric Patients at Adigart General Hospital, Tigray, Ethiopia
Authors: Yehualaw Adane , Taferre Chernet , Bantie Abere Tilahun , Demsie Desalegn Getnet
Published: April 2021

Background. Inappropriate and unnecessary use of antibiotics can increase morbidity, mortality, medical expenses or patient cost, and microbial antibiotic resistance. However, in developing countries like Ethiopia, information regarding appropriateness of antibiotic prescribing pattern to guide improvement strategies is scant. Objective. The aim of this study was to assess appropriateness and pattern of antibiotic prescription in pediatric patients at pediatric ward of Adigrat General Hospital. Methods. Hospital‐based retrospective cross‐sectional study was conducted to assess the antibiotic prescribing pattern in pediatric inpatient and outpatient ward of Adigrat General Hospital from December 1, 2018 to April 30, 2019. Data was collected by using structured data collection checklist, and the systematic random sampling technique was employed to enroll the required sample size during the study period. Appropriateness of drug use in pediatrics was evaluated using Ethiopian Standard Treatment guideline and WHO pediatric guideline. Result. A total of 692 pediatric patients’ medical charts were reviewed. The median age of patients on antibiotics was 3.26 years (IQR: 2‐4). Majority (49.13%) of the patients were hospitalized for 5‐9 days. SCAP (195), tonsillitis (114), and cellulitis (99) were most frequently encountered pediatric diseases. Penicillins (37.86%) followed by cephalosporins (31.79%) antibiotics were the most prescribed antibiotics in pediatric wards. This study also showed that ceftriaxone and ceftriaxone+amoxicillin were the most frequently used single and combination antibiotics, respectively. The prescribing practices were not stick to WHO core indicators and standards. Inappropriate prescription of antibiotics was observed in 28.3% of patients. Advanced age of children, children aged between 6 to 10 years (AOR = 3.225; CI = 1.080 − 9.630; P = .036) and 11‐18 years (AOR = 18.691; CI = 5.156 − 67.756; P = .000), was the independent determinant of inappropriate drug use. Conclusion. Inappropriate antibiotic prescribing was encountered in 28.3% of children. The rate of generic prescription was not in line with WHO recommendation. Advanced age of children was the independent factor for inappropriate use of antibiotics.
Ghrelin Protects Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Lung Injury Rats against Pulmonary Vascular Dysfunction by Inhibiting Inflammation
Authors: Li Guang , Zhou Chen-Liang , Xia Wen-Fang , Zhang Di , Lin Hui-Qing
Published: April 2021

Objective. To determine the effect and mechanism of the anti-inflammatory agent ghrelin on pulmonary vascular dysfunction (PVD) in lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced acute lung injury (ALI) rat models. Methods. Thirty-two adult male Sprague Dawley rats (n = 16/group) were randomly divided into ghrelin and saline groups, wherein ghrelin (10 nmol/kg) or saline was subcutaneously administered. After 30 min, eight rats from each group were randomly selected, and LPS (5 mg/kg) or saline was administered by intratracheal instillation to induce ALI. Four hours after establishing the ALI rat model, the mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP), mean right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP), levels of proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), BALF cell count, wet-to-dry (W/D) lung weight ratios, and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity in lung tissue for all four groups (ghrelin, ghrelin + ALI, saline, and saline + ALI) were measured. Immunohistochemical staining to detect alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression was performed to assess the intrapulmonary arterial wall thickness and the proliferation of smooth muscle cells, respectively. Results. The ghrelin-pretreated ALI rats showed lower mPAP, RVSP, PCNA expression, MPO activity, W/D lung weight ratio, TNF-α and IL-6 levels, and BALF cell count than the saline-pretreated ALI rats, but ghrelin had no effect on the intrapulmonary arterial wall thickness of ALI rats. Conclusion. Our results confirmed the association between inflammation and PVD in ALI and suggested that the suppression of inflammation by ghrelin pretreatment could protect LPS-induced ALI rats against PVD.
Angiomatous Meningioma in the Craniocervical Junction
Authors: Ito Shunsuke , Iizuka Yoichi , Aihara Masanori , Koshi Hiromi , Mieda Tokue , Takasawa Eiji , Ishiwata Sho , Tomomatsu Yusuke , Honda Akira , Inomata Kazuhiro , Chikuda Hirotaka
Published: April 2021

Introduction. Spinal angiomatous meningioma arising in the craniocervical junction has not been reported. Case Presentation. A 68-year-old man presented to our hospital with pain in the back and left leg. He showed slight motor weakness in his upper extremities. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a mass with marked enhancement in the craniocervical junction. Computed tomography angiography showed feeding vessels arising from the right vertebral artery. Preoperative embolization of the feeding vessels was performed to reduce intraoperative bleeding. Gross total resection of the tumor was achieved by debulking and piecemeal resection. The tumor attachment to the dura mater was also resected (Simpson grade 1 resection). A histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of an angiomatous meningioma. The patient’s symptoms improved shortly after surgery. Conclusions. We achieved gross total resection of spinal angiomatous meningioma arising in the craniocervical junction. A preoperative evaluation and embolization of the feeding arteries may help prevent massive intraoperative bleeding.
Acute Rheumatic Fever in a COVID-19-Positive Pediatric Patient
Authors: DeVette Christa I. , Ali Cherise S. , Hahn Devon W. , DeLeon Stephanie D.
Published: April 2021

Bacterial coinfection and COVID-19 have been reported in pediatric populations. We describe a case of Sydenham’s chorea, which is exceedingly rare in developed countries, with concurrent COVID-19. Discussed here is the clinical course of an 8-year-old COVID-positive female with pure Sydenham’s chorea and subclinical carditis from acute rheumatic fever. To our knowledge, there are no documented reports of acute rheumatic fever in a pediatric patient with coexisting COVID-19 infection.
High‐Order Sliding Mode Control for Networked Control System with Dynamic Noncooperative Game Scheduling
Authors: Wang Weixuan , Xie Shousheng , Zhou Bin , Peng Jingbo , Wang Lei , Wang Hao , Zhang Yu
Published: April 2021

Specific to the NCSs where sensor signals can be processed centrally, a collaborative design scheme of dynamic game scheduling and advanced control theory was proposed in the present study. Firstly, by using the Jordan standard state space equation of the research object, the three elements of state noncooperative game were built, and the existence and uniqueness of Nash equilibrium solution were verified. In addition, the iterative equation of the scheduling matrix was derived by complying with the designed utility function. Secondly, refer to the number of restricted states the order of sliding mode was determined. And based on it, the corresponding sliding surface was designed. Subsequently, the quadratic optimization theory was adopted to regulate the control value following the implementation of the scheduling strategy to ensure that the control quality was further enhanced in the limited network service. Lastly, a TrueTime simulation example is established to verify the effectiveness of the proposed scheme.
Autocrine and Paracrine Effects of Vascular Endothelial Cells Promote Cutaneous Wound Healing
Authors: Lu Yang , Yang Yuhao , Xiao Liling , Li Shenghong , Liao Xuan , Liu Hongwei
Published: April 2021

Background. When vascular endothelial cells are subjected to external stimuli, paracrine hormones and cytokines act on adjacent cells. The regulation of the biological behaviour of cells is closely related to the maintenance of organ function and the occurrence and development of disease. However, it is unclear whether vascular endothelial cells affect the biological behaviour of cells involved in wound repair through autocrine and paracrine mechanisms and ultimately play a role in wound healing. We aimed to verify the effect of the autocrine and paracrine functions of vascular endothelial cells on wound healing. Materials and Methods. ELISA was used to detect platelet‐derived growth factor, basic fibroblast growth factor, epidermal growth factor, and vascular endothelial growth factor in human umbilical vascular endothelial cell‐conditioned medium (HUVEC‐CM). Different concentrations of HUVEC‐CM were used to treat different stem cells. CCK‐8 and scratch assays were used to detect the proliferation and migration ability of each cell. A full‐thickness dorsal skin defect model was established in mice, and skin wound healing was observed after the local injection of HUVEC‐CM, endothelial cell medium (ECM), or normal saline. H&E staining and immunofluorescence were used to observe the gross morphology of the wound tissue, the epithelial cell migration distance, and the expression of CD3 and CD31. Results. HUVEC‐CM promotes the proliferation and migration of epidermal stem cells, skin fibroblasts, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells, and HUVECs themselves. Furthermore, HUVEC‐CM can promote angiogenesis in mouse skin wounds and granulation tissue formation and can accelerate wound surface epithelialization and collagen synthesis, thereby promoting wound healing. Conclusion. Our results clearly suggest that it is practicable and effective to promote wound healing with cytokines secreted by vascular endothelial cells in a mouse model.
Macular Changes in a Mucopolysaccharidosis Type I Patient with Earlier Systemic Therapies
Authors: Magalhães Augusto , Cunha Ana Maria , Vilares-Morgado Rodrigo , Leão-Teles Elisa , Rodrigues Esmeralda , Falcão Manuel , Carneiro Ângela , Breda Jorge , Falcão-Reis Fernando
Published: April 2021

Purpose. To describe retinal findings in a patient with mucopolysaccharidosis type I (MPS I) that underwent an early treatment with hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and enzyme replacement therapy (ERT). Case Report. We describe a case of a 12-year-old female with a biochemical and genetic diagnosis of MPS I. She underwent HSCT and ERT on the first year of life. The visual acuity was 5/10 in both eyes and she had bilateral grade 2 corneal haze. Spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) revealed thickening of the external limiting membrane (ELM) at the fovea. In the parafoveal and perifoveal regions, SD-OCT displayed a loss of the interdigitation, ellipsoid, and myoid zones and of the ELM accompanied by progressive thinning of the outer nuclear layer. Fundus infrared imaging revealed a hyperreflective ring centred on the fovea and hyporeflective areas in temporal parafoveal regions in both eyes. En face OCT imaging revealed two hyperreflective rings on the outer retinal level. Conclusion. This patient developed macular changes with foveal deposition of hyperreflective material and parafoveal thinning, despite early systemic treatment. Systemic therapies can provide an increase in life expectancy and stabilize visual acuity and corneal clouding, although their effect on retinal degeneration is unknown.
Full Finite Element Scheme for Reaction-Diffusion Systems on Embedded Curved Surfaces in

ℝ

3
Authors: León-Velasco D. Assaely , Chacón-Acosta Guillermo
Published: April 2021

The purpose of this article is to study numerically the Turing diffusion-driven instability mechanism for pattern formation on curved surfaces embedded in

ℝ

3

, specifically the surface of the sphere and the torus with some well-known kinetics. To do this, we use Euler’s backward scheme for discretizing time. For spatial discretization, we parameterize the surface of the torus in the standard way, while for the sphere, we do not use any parameterization to avoid singularities. For both surfaces, we use finite element approximations with first-order polynomials.
Bilateral Traumatic Maculopathy after Closed-Globe Injury in Context of National Lockdown: A Case Report
Authors: Bennedjai Amin , Adam Raphaël , Akesbi Jad , Rodallec Thibaut , Vidal Raoul , Gaillard Romain , Nordmann Jean-Philippe
Published: April 2021

The aim of this study is to report a case of bilateral traumatic maculopathy in a 19-year-old male following blunt trauma during 2020 coronavirus disease-2019 national lockdown. Descriptive case report based on data from clinical records, patient observation, and analysis of diagnostic tests. A previously healthy, 19-year-old male presented for a visit in our department at 15–20 National Ophthalmology Institute with complaints of bilateral decreased visual acuity. A history of recent blunt trauma caused by resistance band was reported. Fundus examination recorded fibrosis and inferior preretinal hemorrhages on both eyes. Peripheral retinal examination was normal. Optical coherence tomography showed bilateral increased reflectivity, disruption of the inner/outer segment, and loss of the external limiting membrane. The 6-week follow-up did not show a major recovery. Early detection of posterior segment damage after blunt trauma remains primordial despite worldwide pandemic.
Combined Post-Traumatic Total Aniridia and Glaucoma Management
Authors: Christodoulou Eleni , Batsos Georgios , Parikakis Efstratios , Papadopoulos Vlasios , Karagiannis Dimitrios , Koumoutsos Panagiotis Petros , Tsilis Alexandros , Drazinos Spyridon
Published: April 2021

We report a novel approach for managing traumatic total aniridia associated with secondary glaucoma. A 65-year-old male with symptoms of blurred vision, glare, and photophobia was managed in a district general hospital for post-traumatic aniridia associated with secondary glaucoma affecting the right eye. The patient previously suffered blunt ocular injury associated with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, which was treated with pars plana vitrectomy and silicone oil (SO) tamponade and subsequent removal of SO (ROSO). Combined trabeculectomy and implantation of a foldable prosthetic iris (Reper NN Ltd) successfully addressed the dual pathology of aniridia and secondary glaucoma. In summary, the utilization of the trabeculectomy fistula can serve as the implant insertion site, which minimizes the requirement for additional incisions.
Chronic Kidney Disease of Undetermined Etiology around the World
Authors: Floris Matteo , Lepori Nicola , Angioi Andrea , Cabiddu Gianfranca , Piras Doloretta , Loi Valentina , Swaminathan Sundararaman , Rosner Mitchell H. , Pani Antonello
Published: April 2021

Background: Epidemics of chronic kidney disease of uncertain etiology (CKDu) are occurring on the Pacific coast of Central America, in Sri Lankan and Indian agricultural communities, and in other hotspots around the world. CKDu primarily affects male agricultural workers, and traditional risk factors such as diabetes and hypertension are not involved in the pathogenesis. Although a causal factor has not yet been identified, culprits include repeated volume depletion-induced kidney injury, as well as exposure to agrichemicals, heavy metals and nephrotoxins contained in drugs, beverages, and traditional medications. Multiple risk factors may interact in a synergistic fashion thus resulting in chronic kidney damage. The absence of undefined protective factors may amplify the risk. Summary: This review focuses on the current understanding of CKDu by analyzing epidemiology, potential risk factors, and clinical and pathological features as well as geographical peculiarities of each disease. We also focus our attention on the etiology of these conditions in which multiple factors may synergistically contribute to the development and progression of the disease. The last part of the manuscript is dedicated to the research agenda and practical recommendations. Key Messages: Since renal replacement therapy is not extensively available in areas where CKDu is widespread, prevention by avoiding all known potential risk factors is crucial. Innovative healthcare solutions and social policies in endemic areas along with collaborative clinical research projects are needed to better identify factors involved in disease promotion and progression.
Bilateral Toric Phakic Intraocular Lens Implantation for Correction of High Myopic Astigmatism in a Patient with Marfan Syndrome with Lens Coloboma: A Case Report
Authors: Singh Bhupesh , Sharma Sourabh , Dadia Suchit , Bharti Neha , Bharti Sudhank
Published: April 2021

Marfan syndrome (MFS) is known to cause significant refractive error. Treatment options are limited in this condition for correcting refractive error. Clear lens exchange is done in these cases, but complication rates are high. Loss of accommodation is another concern in these young adults. We report toric phakic intraocular lens (pIOL) implantation in improving the uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) in a known case of MFS with lens coloboma. A 22-year-old female patient with MFS with inferior lens coloboma underwent bilateral toric pIOL implantation in the same sitting. Pre- and post-operative UCVA and best-corrected visual acuity were assessed. Central and peripheral vaulting of the pIOL in relation to the natural lens was also assessed. UCVA improved from 20/500 to 20/20 in the right and 20/550–20/20 in the left eye. Marked central vaulting with partial peripheral vaulting was achieved. There were no post-operative complications. Phakic IOL implantation surgery could be an effective approach to achieve excellent uncorrected refractive outcome in patients with MFS to treat high myopia.
Isolated Lacrimal Gland Enlargement in Thyroid-Related Orbitopathy
Authors: Yahalomi Tal , Pikkel Joseph , Arnon Roee , Soikher Eugene , Rubinov Avi
Published: April 2021

Thyroid-related orbitopathy (TRO) is considered to be an inflammatory autoimmune disorder that commonly presents with extraocular muscle and retrobulbar fat enlargement. Lacrimal gland enlargement in TRO has been reported in the past in association with other radiological findings. Our case represents an isolated lacrimal gland enlargement as a presenting radiological finding in an euthyroid patient showing elevation of thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin. After ruling out possible pathologies such as a monoclonal process, lacrimal epithelial tumor, or a nonspecific orbital inflammation, the patient underwent orbital decompression, serial botulinum toxin injections, and upper eyelid-retraction surgical correction. After two years of follow-up, the patient developed new-onset diplopia; consequent imaging showed extraocular muscle enlargement which was not present on previous imaging.
Stress-Related Brain Neuroinflammation Impact in Depression: Role of the Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone System and P2X7 Receptor
Authors: Silberstein Susana , Liberman Ana Clara , dos Santos Claro Paula Ayelén , Ugo Maria Belén , Deussing Jan M. , Arzt Eduardo
Published: April 2021

Depression and other psychiatric stress-related disorders are leading causes of disability worldwide. Up to date, treatments of mood disorders have limited success, most likely due to the multifactorial etiology of these conditions. Alterations in inflammatory processes have been identified as possible pathophysiological mechanisms in psychiatric conditions. Here, we review the main features of 2 systems involved in the control of these inflammatory pathways: the CRH system as a key regulator of the stress response and the ATP-gated ion-channel P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) involved in the control of immune functions. The pathophysiology of depression as a stress-related psychiatric disorder is depicted in terms of the impact of CRH and P2X7R function on inflammatory pathways in the brain. Understanding pathogenesis of affective disorders will lead to the development of therapies for treatment of depression and other stress-related diseases.
The Concept of Pathogenic TH2 Cells: Collegium Internationale Allergologicum Update 2021
Authors: Bertschi Nicole L. , Bazzini Cecilia , Schlapbach Christoph
Published: April 2021

T helper (TH) cells have evolved into distinct subsets that mediate specific immune responses to protect the host against a myriad of infectious and noninfectious challenges. However, if dysregulated, TH-cell subsets can cause inflammatory disease. Emerging evidence now suggests that human allergic disease is caused by a distinct subpopulation of pathogenic TH2 cells. Pathogenic TH2 cells from different type-2-driven diseases share a core phenotype and show overlapping functional attributes. The unique differentiation requirements, activating signals, and metabolic characteristics of pathogenic TH2 cells are just being discovered. A better knowledge of this particular TH2 cell population will enable the specific targeting of disease-driving pathways in allergy. In this review, we introduce a rational for classifying TH cells into distinct subsets, discuss the current knowledge on pathogenic TH2 cells, and summarize their involvement in allergic diseases.
Design, simulation and testing of an array of nano electro mechanical switches (NEMS)
Authors: Mahdi Luay , Al-Gayem Qais
Published: April 2021

Electro mechanical switches used for multi-purposs applications with ultra small size in nano meter scale, operating in very small voltage in millivolts, approximately zero leakage current due to air gap separation between electrodes with three terminals that easy to control it. Nano electro mechanical switches are electronic switches similar to those used by conventional semiconductor switches in application as they can be used as relays, logic devices. The basic principle of nano electro mechanical switches is electronic switches operation is fundamentally different from semiconductor switches. They have many advantages over conventional semiconductor switches such as low-power digital logic applications, ability to work with very small voltage signals for low dynamic energy consumption, and durability against hostile environments such as high temperatures and radiation contaminated spaces. In this article, we will design, implement, and test a matrix of nano electro mechanical switches by on line test using the superposition theory. The simulations of these switches were implemented using the MATLAB-Simulink and ORCAD Pspice environments. Also, controlling the flow of current was achieved by means of a nanometer movement to make or break the physical contact between the electrodes.
Face Recognition with Frame size reduction and DCT compression using PCA algorithm
Authors: Vijaykumar Padmaja , Mani Jeevan K
Published: April 2021

Face recognition has become a very important study of research because it has a variety of applications in research field such as human computer interaction, pattern recognition (PR). A successful face recognition procedure, be it mathematical or numerical, depends on the particular choice of the features used by the classifier. Feature selection in pattern recognition consists of the derivation of salient features present in the raw input data in order to reduce the amount of data used for classification. For the successful face recognition, the database images must have sufficient information so that when presented with the probe image, the recognition must be possible. Majority of times, there is always excess information present in the database images, leads higher storage, hence optimum size of the images needs to be stored in the database for good performance, are compressed with reduction in frame size and then compressed with that of the DCT.

 
Automated handwriting analysis based on pattern recognition: a survey
Authors: Samsuryadi Samsuryadi , Kurniawan Rudi , Susilawati Mohamad Fatma
Published: April 2021

Handwriting analysis has wide scopes include recruitment, medical diagnosis, forensic, psychology, and human-computer interaction. Computerized handwriting analysis makes it easy to recognize human personality and can help graphologists to understand and identify it. The features of handwriting use as input to classify a person’s personality traits. This paper discusses a pattern recognition point of view, in which different stages are described. The stages of study are data collection and pre-processing technique, feature extraction with associated personality characteristics, and the classification model. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to present a review of the methods and their achievements used in various stages of a pattern recognition system. 
Eye blink detection using CNN to detect drowsiness level in drivers for road safety
Authors: Vishesh Pothuraju , S Raghavendra , Jankatti SantoshKumar , V Rekha
Published: April 2021

Blinking is a regular bodily function and it is the semiautomatic fast closing of the eyelid. A specific blink is examined by dynamic folding of the eyelid. It is a vital function of the eye which helps in spread of tears across and eliminates irritants from the shallow of cornea. In this research work we made use of convolution neural network, the deep learning concepts and image processing to detect drowsiness level in drivers. To train the blink detection model the mobilenet V2 is used as base. The loss function used for training was RMSprop and the optimizer is binary cross entropy. The dlib facial landmark was exploited to perceive and pre-process the detected faces. The dataset used for the training model is selected from the “Xiaoyang Tan” of nanjing university of aeronautics and astronautics. Based on the experimental outcome the projected method achieves an accuracy of 97%. The prototype developed serves as a base for further development of this process to achieve better road safety.
SAR distribution of non-invasive hyperthermia with microstrip applicators on different breast cancer stages
Authors: Ling Wong Vei , Lias Kasumawati , Buniyamin Norlida , Basri Hazrul Mohamed , Ahmad Narihan Mohammad Zulkaranen
Published: April 2021

This paper presents the microstrip antenna with different applied frequencies used as a non-invasive hyperthermia applicator. This non-invasive hyperthermia applicator is introduced to clarify the sufficient heat distribution on the treated tissue for different breast cancer stages. 57 mammogram breast cancer images from early-stage to stage-3 are analyzed to obtain the required penetration depth and focus position distance. Then, the simulation-based experiment is carried out to observe the heating distribution on different stages of cancer with two different operating frequencies; 915MHz and 2450MHz. Also included in this paper is the prediction on the period for hyperthermia treatment planning execution. Based on the results, various penetration depths are obtained when different operating frequencies are applied. 915MHz antenna showed better results when compared to 2450MHz, where microstrip applicator with 915MHz is able to heat cancer at stage-1, stage-2, and stage-3 with good penetration depth and focus position distance, while 2450MHz only performed well in early-stage cancer. Meanwhile, different stages require various periods of time. From the results, the shortest period for hyperthermia execution simulated in the early-stage and then followed by stage-3, stage-2, and the longest period is in stage-1.
Basic FBG apodization functions effects on the filtered optical acoustic signal
Authors: Eid Mahmoud M. A. , Rashed Ahmed Nabih Zaki
Published: April 2021

This article clarified the basic fiber Bragg grating (FBG) apodization functions effects on the filtered optical acoustic signal (AS). Max optical acoustic power variations after acousto optic filter is clarified with the spectral wavelength variations. FBG apodization functions are uniform, Gaussian, and Tanh. We have tested the max optical acoustic power variations after various apodization FBG functions with the spectral wavelength variations. The max AS power amplitude after the electrical combiner is reported based various Apodization FBG functions. The max optical AS after FBG is studied with various FBG lengths for various FBG apodization functions at the central wavelength of 1.55 μm. The max electrical power after power combiner unit is demonstrated with different FBG lengths for various FBG apodization functions at the central frequency of 193.1 THz. 
Comparison of lithium niobate and silicon substrate on phase shift and efficiency performance for mach-zehnder interferometer modulator
Authors: Roslan Nor Hidayah , H. Awang Aziati , M. Yusoff Mohd Hanapiah , Md Zain Ahmad Rifqi
Published: April 2021

In this study, the low-group velocity slow-light mach-zehnder interferometer (MZI) modulator, low loss and high efficiency for two modulator substrate lithium niobate (LN) and silicon were presented and optimized at 1.55µm operating wavelength. The high power consumption of conventional modulator was the major drawback in the operation of modulators. Therefore, it was a good time for low-power modulator design and development and to compare the LN and Silicon modulator on the phase shifted using the slow-light technique by designing the full MZI modulator consisting of splitter and combiner on both substrates. The phase shift of LN is 2% compared with the silicon 0.09% and higher phase shift give better performance with low power consumption due to the change of modulating voltage of the MZI modulator for LN while the silicon depends on modulating voltage manipulating concentration of charge carrier in doped silicon.
Mobility models for next generation wireless mesh network
Authors: Assegie Tsehay Admassu , Suresh Tamilarasi , Subhashni R. , M Deepika
Published: April 2021

Wireless mesh network (WMN) is a new trend in wireless communication promising greater flexibility, reliability, and performance over traditional wireless local area network (WLAN). Test bed analysis and emulation plays an essential role in valuation of software defined wireless network and node mobility is the prominent feature of next generation software defined wireless network. In this study, the mobility models employed for moving mobile stations in software defined wireless network are explored. Moreover, the importance of mobility model within software defined wireless mesh network for enhancing the performance through handover-based load balancing is analyzed. The mobility models for the next generation software defined wireless network are explored. Furthermore, we have presented the mobility models in the mininet-Wi-Fi test bed, and evaluated the performance of Gauss Marko’s mobility model.
Multi-constraints based RPL objective function with adaptive stability for high traffic IoT applications
Authors: Hassani Abdelhadi Eloudrhiri , Sahel Aicha , Badri Abdelmajid , Ilham El Mourabit
Published: April 2021

The internet of things technology is classified as a Low power and lossy network. These kinds of networks require a trustworthy routing protocol considered as the backbone for management and high quality of service achievements. IPv6 routing protocol for Low power and lossy network (RPL) was able to gain popularity compared to other routing protocols dedicated to IoT for its great flexibility through the objective function. Default objective functions implemented in the RPL core are based on a single metric. Consequently, the routing protocol can’t cope with different constraints and show congestion issues in high traffics. For that, we proposed in our paper multi-constraints-based objective function with adaptive stability (MCAS-OF), which uses novel strategies for Radio strength indicator, node energy consumption, hop count and a designed work-metric combination, new rank processing, and parent selection procedure. The network stability was also taken into account, since the multi constraints can lead to frequent parent changes, using an adaptive threshold. The proposal, evaluated under the COOJA emulator against standard-RPL and EC-OF, showed a packet delivery ratio improvement by 24% in high traffics, a decrease in the power consumption close to 44%, achieved less latency and DIO control messages, it also gives a good workload balancing by reducing the standard deviation of node’s power consumption.