bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of temperature on the magnitude and duration of relief after lumbar facets medial branch nerves radiofrequency ablation: a randomized double-blinded study
Authors: Mekhail Nagy , Costandi Shrif , Armanyous Sherif , Templeton Erin , Acevedo-Moreno Lou-Anne G , Prayson Nicholas
Published: February 2024

Introduction

There are numerous studies appraising the variables that may influence the clinical outcomes after lumbar thermal radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Expanding the lesion size may increase the likelihood of capturing the target nerves in the lesion, thereby increasing the technical success rate of RFA. However, our literature search has failed to identify a consensus on the optimal target temperature. A retrospective study demonstrated that there seems to be significant functional improvement associated with the temperature of 90°C compared with 80°C. The authors prospectively studied the subject in a double-blinded randomized fashion.

Methods

Patients undergoing RFA for lumbar facetogenic pain were randomized in two cohorts (80°C and 90°C). Physicians and patients were blinded to the temperature used. The primary outcome was self-reported pain scores up to 12 months. Secondary outcomes included: self-reported functional improvement, duration of relief as measured by the time before repeat ablation of the same medial branches nerves, opioids’ consumption, and patient satisfaction.

Results

Both groups reported pain improvement in all follow-up time points. Overall, both groups achieved statistically significant pain reduction (p<0.05). The median time to repeat RFA in the 80°C group was 112 (49–252) days, while it was 217 (198–348) days in the 90°C group (p<0.04). The univariate analysis emphasized that the RFA temperature is a statistically significant factor for pain improvement of more than 50%, OR 2.7 (1.1 to 6.6) p value=0.031.

Conclusion

RFA has been demonstrated as an effective therapeutic modality for lumbar facetogenic back pain. Yet, the several factors involved in determining a favorable outcome of this procedure require further research and optimization. This prospective double-blinded randomized trial demonstrated that RFA at both temperatures (80°C, 90°C) provided significance at all the time periods examined. However, RFA at 90°C was superior to 80°C in regard to the duration of relief.
Effect of virtual reality hypnosis on intraoperative sedation needs and functional recovery in knee arthroplasty: a prospective randomized clinical trial
Authors: Carella Michele , Beck Florian , Quoilin Caroline , Azongmo Murielle M , Loheac Adrien , Bonhomme Vincent L , Vanhaudenhuyse Audrey
Published: February 2024

Background and objectives

Perioperative psychological stress and pharmacological anxiolysis can negatively affect the quality of recovery after total knee arthroplasty. We aimed to assess whether hypnosis combined with virtual reality could reduce intraoperative pharmacological sedation and improve quality of recovery after total knee arthroplasty surgery.

Methods

In this prospective randomized clinical trial, 60 patients scheduled for total knee arthroplasty with spinal anesthesia were randomly divided into 2 groups of 30 patients each. Intraoperatively, intermittent boluses of midazolam 1 mg were administered at 5 min intervals at the patient’s request, with a maximum driven by the clinical assessment of sedation depth. During surgery, patients received standard care (group control) or virtual reality hypnosis (group VRH). An unblinded observer recorded the total dose of midazolam administered during surgery, and changes in the Quality-of-Recovery 15-item score, comfort, fatigue, pain and anxiety before and 1, 3 and 7 days after surgery.

Results

Patients in the VRH group required a lower dose of midazolam (mg; median (range)) intraoperatively (group VRH: 0 (0–4) and group control: 2 (0–9), p<0.001). Quality-of-Recovery 15-item, anxiety, and pain were similar between groups.

Conclusions

In total knee arthroplasty with spinal anesthesia, VRH reduces the requirement for intraoperative pharmacological sedation, without a change in the quality of recovery.

Trial registration number

NCT05707234.
Algorithms for Covering Barrier Points by Mobile Sensors with Line Constraint
Authors: Jain Princy , Wang Haitao
Published: February 2024

We study the problem of covering barrier points by mobile sensors. Each sensor is represented by a point in the plane with the same covering range [Formula: see text] so that any point within distance [Formula: see text] from the sensor can be covered by the sensor. Given a set [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] points (called “barrier points”) and a set [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] points (representing the “sensors”) in the plane, the problem is to move the sensors so that each barrier point is covered by at least one sensor and the maximum movement of all sensors is minimized. The problem is NP-hard. In this paper, we consider two line-constrained variations of the problem and present efficient algorithms that improve the previous work. In the first problem, all sensors are given on a line [Formula: see text] and are required to move on [Formula: see text] only while the barrier points can be anywhere in the plane. We propose an [Formula: see text] time algorithm for the problem. We also consider the weighted case where each sensor has a weight; we give an [Formula: see text] time algorithm for this case. In the second problem, all barrier points are on [Formula: see text] while all sensors are in the plane but are required to move onto [Formula: see text] to cover all barrier points. We also solve the weighted case in [Formula: see text] time.
THE IMPACT OF GLOBAL DYNAMICS ON THE FRACTALS OF A QUADROTOR UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE (QUAV) CHAOTIC SYSTEM
Authors: MARWAN MUHAMMAD , HAN MAOAN , DAI YANFEI , CAI MEILAN
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we have extended the concept of advanced Julia function for the discovery of new type of trajectories existing inside outer and inner wings. A dynamical system based on four rotors, referred to as quadrotor unmanned aerial vehicle (QUAV), is considered for the first time to seek the generation of extra wings using fractal theory. Moreover, we have used Julia and advanced Julia function techniques for the creation of outer and inner wings, respectively. Furthermore, the trajectories achieved using both techniques are analyzed and compared with the aid of basin of attraction and bifurcation diagram. This work covers a gap in the literature, that what is the impact of global dynamics on the hidden fractals. Therefore to fill this gap, sets of initial points are plotted from each basin constructed for fractals-based QUAV systems. Finally, numerical simulations are carried out using MATLAB, whereas the data generated for the corresponding basins are attached for the convenience of readers to reproduce each figure.
Role of Blockchain Technology in Smart Era: A Review on Possible Smart Applications
Authors: Tyagi Amit Kumar , Kukreja Swetta , Richa  , Sivakumar Poushikkumar
Published: February 2024

By the end of 2021, the worldwide cryptocurrency market valuation had hit a whole high of $3 trillion. Blockchain technology underpins cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. The adoption of blockchain, as well as the technology and products it enables, will continue to have a significant influence on company operations. However, blockchain technology is much more than a secure cryptocurrency transfer method. It may be utilised in areas other than finance, including as healthcare, insurance, voting, welfare benefits, gaming and artist royalties. The global economy is prepared for the blockchain revolution, with the technology already having an influence on business and society on many levels. If the term “revolution” seems extreme, consider that eight of the world’s ten largest corporations are developing a variety of blockchain-based solutions. Any enterprise or organisation that is engaged in the recording and oversight of any type of transaction stands to profit from shifting its operations to a blockchain-based platform. This paper discusses about the various roles blockchain has taken up over the years in several different industries along with the future opportunities and scope of expansion to numerous other professional sectors.
Double shock solution for three-dimensional irrotational isentropic flow
Authors: Li Dening , Zhang Qingtian
Published: February 2024

We study the generalized Riemann problem for a second-order conservation law derived from the three-dimensional irrotational isentropic flow. The existence of local smooth solutions containing two shock fronts is established under minimal compatibility conditions on the initial data.
Characterizing Climate Change from Heating, Not Merely Temperature
Authors: Trenberth Kevin E.
Published: February 2024

Current human-induced climate change arises primarily from the heating of the planet mainly from changes in atmospheric composition, and temperature change is one manifestation. The increasing greenhouse gases, notably carbon dioxide from burning fossil fuels, lead to Earth’s Energy Imbalance (EEI), altering the flow of energy through the climate system, and the dissemination of excess energy is partly what determines how climate change is manifested. Some of the extremes being experienced, especially those involving drought, convection, storms, flooding, and the water cycle, are mostly driven by aspects of heating and, while temperature contributes through the water-holding capacity of the atmosphere, it is more a consequence than a cause. Afterall, water is the air conditioner of the planet. The United Nations, and especially the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in their Summary for Policy Makers, focus on global temperature targets rather than broader facets of climate change including EEI, and do not always adequately discriminate between temperature and heating. This also has consequences for future climate if or when heating is brought under control by cutting emissions. Improvements are needed in expressing how the climate is changing by properly accounting for the flow of energy through the climate system.
Fracture analysis in borehole images from BM-C-33 area, outer Campos Basin, Brazil
Authors: Brandão André Gondim , Wennberg Ole Petter , Borghi Leonardo , Oliveira João Paulo , Carneiro Vinicius
Published: February 2024

In the BM-C-33 area, divided into the Raia Manta and Raia Pintada development areas, reservoirs are arranged into three structural highs: Gávea, Seat, and Pão de Açúcar. These reservoirs consist of pre-salt limestones deposited on volcanic sequences and underwent complex diagenetic evolution. Successive post-depositional processes, including silicification, affected original mineral assemblage, modified pore textures, and caused intense fracturing. Based on borehole image logs (BHI), wireline data from four wells, and 2D and 3D seismic data, this study details natural fracture acoustic and resistivity properties. It also discusses the relationship of faults, fractures, and vugs with diagenetic and tectonic processes. The authors used the data to divide the pre-salt section (Cabiúnas and Macabu formations) into three informal stratigraphic units. The analysis of interpreted fractures within these units suggests that major fracturing occurred due to regional tectonic stress, with local aspects like structural positioning interfering. The results of the fracture analysis imply a direct relationship between fracturing and silicification. Additionally, fracture density, vug volume distribution, and the presence of dissolution features like enlarged fractures limited to specific units imply stratigraphic control on fluid percolation. Finally, the study examines structural particularities in BM-C-33 area that potentially impacted intensity and extension of diagenetic alterations.
Co-Leading Class with Students: Shared responsibility and understanding
Authors: Angelone Lauren
Published: February 2024

Providing opportunities for students to lead and shape class, alongside an instructor, takes into account the unique cultures, needs, and experiences of each student. A co-leading model was used during a blended Instructional Technology course and findings revealed that this model was engaging and gave students an opportunity to share their own experience. Student reflections also indicated some challenges, such as group collaboration and technical issues.
Deep Learning for Time Series Classification and Extrinsic Regression: A Current Survey
Authors: Mohammadi Foumani Navid , Miller Lynn , Tan Chang Wei , Webb Geoffrey I. , Forestier Germain , Salehi Mahsa
Published: February 2024

Time Series Classification and Extrinsic Regression are important and challenging machine learning tasks. Deep learning has revolutionized natural language processing and computer vision and holds great promise in other fields such as time series analysis where the relevant features must often be abstracted from the raw data but are not known a priori. This article surveys the current state of the art in the fast-moving field of deep learning for time series classification and extrinsic regression. We review different network architectures and training methods used for these tasks and discuss the challenges and opportunities when applying deep learning to time series data. We also summarize two critical applications of time series classification and extrinsic regression, human activity recognition and satellite earth observation.
Characterising Modal Formulas with Examples
Authors: ten Cate Balder , Koudijs Raoul
Published: February 2024

We study the existence of finite characterisations for modal formulas. A finite characterisation of a modal formula φ is a finite collection of positive and negative examples that distinguishes φ from every other, non-equivalent modal formula, where an example is a finite pointed Kripke structure. This definition can be restricted to specific frame classes and to fragments of the modal language: a modal fragment ℒ admits finite characterisations with respect to a frame class ℱ if every formula φ ∈ ℒ has a finite characterisation with respect to ℒ consisting of examples that are based on frames in ℱ. Finite characterisations are useful for illustration, interactive specification and debugging of formal specifications, and their existence is a precondition for exact learnability with membership queries. We show that the full modal language admits finite characterisations with respect to a frame class ℱ only when the modal logic of ℱ is locally tabular. We then study which modal fragments, freely generated by some set of connectives, admit finite characterisations. Our main result is that the positive modal language without the truth-constants ⊤ and ⊥ admits finite characterisations w.r.t. the class of all frames. This result is essentially optimal: finite characterisability fails when the language is extended with the truth constant ⊤ or ⊥ or with all but very limited forms of negation.
Precisely Extracting Complex Variable Values from Android Apps
Authors: Miltenberger Marc , Arzt Steven
Published: February 2024

Millions of users nowadays rely on their smartphones to process sensitive data through apps from various vendors and sources. Therefore, it is vital to assess these apps for security vulnerabilities and privacy violations. Information such as to which server an app connects through which protocol, and which algorithm it applies for encryption, are usually encoded as variable values and arguments of API calls. However, extracting these values from an app is not trivial. The source code of an app is usually not available, and manual reverse engineering is cumbersome with binary sizes in the tens of megabytes. Current automated tools, however, cannot retrieve values that are computed at runtime through complex transformations.

In this article, we present
ValDroid
, a novel static analysis tool for automatically extracting the set of possible values for a given variable at a given statement in the Dalvik byte code of an Android app. We evaluate
ValDroid
against existing approaches (JSA, Violist, DroidRA, Harvester, BlueSeal, StringHound, IC3, and COAL) on benchmarks and 794 real-world apps.
ValDroid
greatly outperforms existing tools. It provides an average
F
1
score of more than 90%, while only requiring 0.1 s per value on average. For many data types including Network Connections and Dynamic Code Loading, its recall is more than twice the recall of the best existing approaches.
Enhancing Sr-deficient Sr(Ti0.3Fe0.7)O3–δ
Cathode Performance through Sm0.5Sr0.5CoO3–δ
Infiltration
Authors: Kim Dong-Yeon , Park Chan-Hyun , Park Beom-Kyeong
Published: February 2024

The development of cathodes with improved polarization, aimed at reducing the operating temperature of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), is an important avenue of research toward more efficient SOFCs. Sr(Ti0.3Fe0.7)O3–δ
recently emerged as an active and stable cathode material; although its oxygen transport capability was shown to be further improved by introducing a Sr deficiency, the accompanying increased sinterability creates challenges in optimizing cathode microstructure. One facile approach may be single-step infiltration with highly active materials, such as Sr0.5Sm0.5CoO3–δ
(SSC). However, there is limited knowledge regarding the impact of SSC on the electrochemical mechanisms within Sr-deficient Sr(Ti0.3Fe0.7)O3–δ
. In this study, we systematically investigate the electrochemical characteristics of SSC-infiltrated Sr0.95(Ti0.3Fe0.7)O3–δ
(STF) cathodes. Transmission line model-based impedance analysis provides a mechanistic understanding of STF and the role of SSC infiltrants in polarization improvement. The results reveal that SSC effectively reduces the resistance associated with key electrode processes, including oxygen diffusion, surface exchange, and dissociative adsorption/desorption. Consequently, using SSC infiltration, the power density of a Ni–Zr0.84Y0.16O2–δ
(YSZ) anode-supported full cell with thin (∼2.5 μm) electrolyte increased from ∼1.88 to ∼2.47 W cm–2 at 800 °C.
Preparation and Electrochemical Properties of the CF-Ti/β-PbO2 Composite Anode for Zinc Electrowinning
Authors: Wang Guangping , Zeng Siya , Liu Jianhua , Yuan Feigang , Li Jie , Xu Lei , Hu Changyu
Published: February 2024

This study focused on creating a unique CF-Ti/β-PbO2 composite anode through the combination of powder metallurgy and electrodeposition techniques. A study was conducted on how carbon fiber affects the properties of the anode in the process of zinc electrowinning. The addition of carbon fiber was discovered to enhance the performance of the electrode. When 3% carbon fiber is added, the cell voltage of the composite anode is reduced by 3.06 V, and the current efficiency is increased by 10.16% to 96.39%. Compared to the composite anode without carbon fiber, the corrosion rate of the composite anode containing carbon fiber is decreased by 67.35%. Moreover, the energy usage is reduced by 50%, leading to a potential conservation of 3313.87 kW·h per ton.
Charge Transport in the A6B2O17 (A = Zr, Hf; B = Nb, Ta) Superstructure Series
Authors: Miruszewski Tadeusz , Mielewczyk-Gryń Aleksandra , Jaworski Daniel , Rosenberg William Foute , McCormack Scott J. , Gazda Maria
Published: February 2024

The electrical properties of the entropy stabilized oxides: Zr6Nb2O17, Zr6Ta2O17, Hf6Nb2O17 and Hf6Ta2O17 were characterized. The results and the electrical properties of the products (i.e. ZrO2, HfO2, Nb2O5 and Ta2O5) led us to hypothesize the A6B2O17 family is a series of mixed ionic-electronic conductors. Conductivity measurements in varying oxygen partial pressure were performed on A6Nb2O17 and A6Ta2O17. The results indicate that electrons are involved in conduction in A6Nb2O17 while holes play a role in conduction of A6Ta2O17. Between 900 °C–950 °C, the charge transport in the A6B2O17 system increases in Ar atmosphere. A combination of DTA/DSC and in situ high temperature X-ray diffraction was performed to identify a potential mechanism for this increase. In-situ high temperature X-ray diffraction in Ar does not show any phase transformation. Based on this, it is hypothesized that a change in the oxygen sub-lattice is the cause for the shift in high temperature conduction above 900 °C–950 °C. This could be: (i) Nb(Ta)4+- oxygen vacancy associate formation/dissociation, (ii) formation of oxygen/oxygen vacancy complexes (iii) ordering/disordering of oxygen vacancies and/or (iv) oxygen-based superstructure commensurate or incommensurate transitions. In-situ high temperature neutron diffraction up to 1050 °C is required to help elucidate the origins of this large increase in conductivity.
Circadian Rhythm Regulation by Pacemaker Neuron Chloride Oscillation in Flies
Authors: Rodan Aylin R.
Published: February 2024

Circadian rhythms in physiology and behavior sync organisms to external environmental cycles. Here, circadian oscillation in intracellular chloride in central pacemaker neurons of the fly, Drosophila melanogaster, is reviewed. Intracellular chloride links SLC12 cation-coupled chloride transporter function with kinase signaling and the regulation of inwardly rectifying potassium channels.
Mechanisms of Pathogen and Pesticide Resistance in Honey Bees
Authors: Foster Leonard J. , Tsvetkov Nadejda , McAfee Alison
Published: February 2024

Bees are the most important insect pollinators of the crops humans grow, and Apis mellifera, the Western honey bee, is the most commonly managed species for this purpose. In addition to providing agricultural services, the complex biology of honey bees has been the subject of scientific study since the 18th century, and the intricate behaviors of honey bees and ants, fellow hymenopterans, inspired much sociobiological inquest. Unfortunately, honey bees are constantly exposed to parasites, pathogens, and xenobiotics, all of which pose threats to their health. Despite our curiosity about and dependence on honey bees, defining the molecular mechanisms underlying their interactions with biotic and abiotic stressors has been challenging. The very aspects of their physiology and behavior that make them so important to agriculture also make them challenging to study, relative to canonical model organisms. However, because we rely on A. mellifera so much for pollination, we must continue our efforts to understand what ails them. Here, we review major advancements in our knowledge of honey bee physiology, focusing on immunity and detoxification, and highlight some challenges that remain.
Field Testing and Numerical Simulation of the Dynamic Response of Loess Hill Site under High‐Speed Train Load
Authors: Yan Wujian , Tian Xinxin , Wang Ping , Kang Lin , Wu Zhijian
Published: February 2024

In this study, the loess hill site of an elevated bridge section in Tongwei‐Qin’an of the Baolan high‐speed railroad was selected as the research object, and the vibration acceleration of the loess hill site under the elevated bridge was tested in the field under the train operating load. The results show that under the same intensity of train load, the time range of vibration acceleration observed by field test and numerical simulation decays linearly with increasing distance from the source, while the amplification effect appears in the loess hill site at a greater distance, and the vibration duration also appears to increase. The vibration acceleration waveforms at each observation point observed by field tests and numerical simulations are similar, and the peak vertical acceleration at each observation point obtained from numerical simulations is overall greater than the peak acceleration at each point obtained from field tests, with aSimulated− max / aObservated− max values ranging from 1.04 to 1.63. The Fourier spectrum frequencies recorded by numerical simulation and field test are mainly concentrated in the range of 1∼40 Hz, but the difference between the main frequencies recorded by the two is large. The main frequency of the energy spectrum recorded by the numerical simulation is around 15 Hz, which is the same as the main frequency of the energy spectrum vibration of the input vibration wave, and the main frequency of the energy spectrum vibration recorded by the field test is around 25 Hz.
STEAP3 Affects Ovarian Cancer Progression by Regulating Ferroptosis through the p53/SLC7A11 Pathway
Authors: Han Yi , Fu Lei , Kong Yan , Jiang Changqing , Huang Liying , Zhang Hualing
Published: February 2024

Ovarian cancer (OC) is a common malignant cancer in women with a low overall survival rate, and ferroptosis may be a potential new strategy for treatment. Six-transmembrane epithelial antigen of prostate 3 (STEAP3) is a gene closely related to ferroptosis, yet the role of STEAP3 in OC has not yet been thoroughly investigated. Using biological information analysis, we first found that STEAP3 was highly expressed in OC, which was significantly associated with poor prognosis of patients and was an independent prognostic factor. Through cloning, scratch, and transwell experiments, we subsequently found that knockdown of STEAP3 significantly reduced the proliferation and migration ability of OC cells. Furthermore, we found that knockdown of STEAP3 induced ferroptosis in OC cells by detecting ferroptosis indicators. Mechanistically, we also found that knockdown of STEAP3 induced ferroptosis through the p53/SLC7A11 signaling pathway. Through tumorigenic experiments in nude mice, we finally verified that the knockdown of STEAP3 could inhibit tumor growth in vivo by promoting ferroptosis through the p53 pathway. Overall, our study identified a novel therapeutic target for ferroptosis in OC and explored its specific mechanism of action.
A Case of Congenital Nephrotic Syndrome with Crescents Caused by a Novel Compound Heterozygous Pairing of NPHS1 Genetic Variants
Authors: Goodman Kyle N. , Puapatanakul Pongpratch , Barton Kevin T. , He Mai , Miner Jeffrey H. , Gaut Joseph P.
Published: February 2024

Congenital nephrotic syndrome is an autosomal recessive inherited disorder that manifests as steroid-resistant massive proteinuria in the first three months of life. Defects in the glomerular filtration mechanism are the primary etiology. We present a child who developed severe nephrotic syndrome at two weeks of age and eventually required a bilateral nephrectomy. Genetic testing revealed compound heterozygous variants in NPHS1 including a known pathogenic variant and a missense variant of uncertain significance. Light microscopy revealed crescent formation—an atypical finding in congenital nephrotic syndrome caused by nephrin variants—in addition to focal segmental and global glomerulosclerosis. Electron microscopy showed diffuse podocyte foot process effacement. Confocal and Airyscan immunofluorescence microcopy showed aggregation of nephrin in the podocyte cell body that is not a result of diffuse podocyte foot process effacement as seen in minimal change disease. These findings confirm the novel variant as pathogenic.
The Effect of Research and Development on Economic Growth in Ethiopia: The Untapped Potential for Prosperity
Authors: Agezew Birhanu Haile
Published: February 2024

This research measured the links between R&D and economic growth in Ethiopia employing multiple regression models. Citable journal articles, patents, technology exports, and research expenditures are the four predictor variables that are the focus of the study. GDP per capita growth is the outcome variable of the study, which serves as a proxy indicator for economic growth. The study used a panel dataset with data from a sample of 21 years between 2001 and 2021. The results show a significant link between growth of GDP per capita and citable journal articles, patents, and technology exports, demonstrating that these factors are essential for fostering economic growth. However, government expenditure on research and development has no discernible impact on economic growth, which accordingly, raises the possibility that raising research spending by itself may not be sufficient to boost the economy. These findings have tremendous policy implications because they emphasize the importance of concentrating on particular R&D initiatives that have a direct impact on economic growth. The study adds to the existing frontiers of knowledge inline with the connection between R&D and economic growth by demonstrating the value of citation-worthy journals, patents, and technology exports in fostering economic growth.
A Novel Opportunity Losses-Based Polar Coordinate Distance (OPLO-POCOD) Approach to Multiple Criteria Decision-Making
Authors: Sheikh Reza , Senfi Soheila
Published: February 2024

The ability to make decisions is crucial for achieving success in any field, particularly in areas that involve managing extensive information and knowledge. The process of decision-making in real-world scenarios often involves considering numerous factors and aspects. It can be challenging to make decisions in such complex environments. In this paper, we present a new technique that solves multicriteria decision-making (MCDM) problems by considering opportunity losses-based polar coordinate distance (OPLO-POCOD). MCDM is a subdiscipline of operations research in which some alternatives are evaluated concerning some criteria to choose the most optimal alternative(s). Opportunity loss is a fundamental concept in economics and management, which can be used as a basis for determining the value associated with information. The authors emphasize that the technique incorporates the concept of opportunity losses and uses distance vectors in polar coordinates, making it a compelling approach. By considering opportunity losses, decision-makers gain a better understanding of the trade-offs involved in selecting alternatives, enabling them to make more informed decisions. Finally, the proposed method is exhibited through the use of numerical an example to illustrate its process. Additionally, a comparative sensitivity analysis is conducted to evaluate the outcomes of OPLO-POCOD and compare them with existing MCDM methods. The OPLO-POCOD method is found to have high reliability compared to other methods, as indicated by Spearman’s correlation coefficient, which is greater than 0.9. The method shows a correlation of over 98.5% with TOPSIS, COPRAS, ARAS, and MCRAT methods, demonstrating its robustness and effectiveness. These analyses show the efficiency of the proposed method and highlight the stability of the results.
Epidemiology and Risk Factors for Orthostatic Hypotension and Its Severity in Residents Aged > 60 years: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Yang Mingni , Peng Ruiqiang , Wang Zetuo , Li Miaoduan , Song Yehua , Niu Jianping , Ji Yong
Published: February 2024

This cross-sectional study investigated the epidemiology and risk factors associated with orthostatic hypotension (OH) and its severity in older adults residing in the Jizhou community of Tianjin and the Jimei community of Xiamen. The study, conducted from March to September 2019, involved adults aged over 60. A comprehensive questionnaire survey was administered, resulting in the enrolment of 4383 older adults. The overall prevalence of OH was found to be 11.7% (516 out of 4383). Notably, a significant gender difference was observed, with a prevalence of 10% among males (194 out of 1926) and 13.1% among females (322 out of 2457) (P=0.002). Among individuals with OH, 332 exhibited mild symptoms, 64 had moderate OH, 58 had severe OH cases, and 50 have very severe OH. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that being female, widowed, engaging in general social activities, and a history of hypertension, migraines, heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, and mental health conditions (anxiety and depression) were independently associated with OH. Ordinal logistic regression analysis further confirmed that hypertension, migraine, and a history of general anesthesia surgery were independently associated with the severity of OH. This study highlights a relatively high prevalence of OH among older adults in the Jizhou community of Tianjin and the Jimei community of Xiamen, China. The identified risk factors, particularly social activities, and hypertension, significantly influence the severity of OH. Further examination is required to corroborate these findings and investigate potential interventions.
Video S6 from Cancer-associated Fibroblast–specific Expression of the Matricellular Protein CCN1 Coordinates Neovascularization and Stroma Deposition in Melanoma Metastasis
Authors: Hutchenreuther James , Nguyen John , Quesnel Katherine , Vincent Krista M. , Petitjean Louis , Bourgeois Sophia , Boyd Mark , Bou-Gharios George , Postovit Lynne-Marie , Leask Andrew
Published: February 2024

CCN1 deficient stroma vasculature microct
Video S5 from Cancer-associated Fibroblast–specific Expression of the Matricellular Protein CCN1 Coordinates Neovascularization and Stroma Deposition in Melanoma Metastasis
Authors: Hutchenreuther James , Nguyen John , Quesnel Katherine , Vincent Krista M. , Petitjean Louis , Bourgeois Sophia , Boyd Mark , Bou-Gharios George , Postovit Lynne-Marie , Leask Andrew
Published: February 2024

CCN1 deficient stroma vasculature microct
Video S4 from Cancer-associated Fibroblast–specific Expression of the Matricellular Protein CCN1 Coordinates Neovascularization and Stroma Deposition in Melanoma Metastasis
Authors: Hutchenreuther James , Nguyen John , Quesnel Katherine , Vincent Krista M. , Petitjean Louis , Bourgeois Sophia , Boyd Mark , Bou-Gharios George , Postovit Lynne-Marie , Leask Andrew
Published: February 2024

CCN1 deficient stroma vasculature microct
FIGURE 4 from Cancer-associated Fibroblast–specific Expression of the Matricellular Protein CCN1 Coordinates Neovascularization and Stroma Deposition in Melanoma Metastasis
Authors: Hutchenreuther James , Nguyen John , Quesnel Katherine , Vincent Krista M. , Petitjean Louis , Bourgeois Sophia , Boyd Mark , Bou-Gharios George , Postovit Lynne-Marie , Leask Andrew
Published: February 2024

CCN1-deficient stroma show disorganized collagen fibers. Digital pathology phenotypic quantification (PharmaNest, Inc) phenotypic fibrosis histologic heat chart (A) where each row represents a principal qFT, at the three phenotypic levels (collagen deposition, fibers morphometry, and fibrosis architecture). B, The Ph-FCS recapitulates all the qFTs for one sample, and quantifies the phenotype of fibrosis and its differences between CCN1-deficient (KO; n = 5, mean = 1.5, Std dev = 0.5) and wild-type (WT) mice (n = 6, mean = 4.6, Std dev = 0.9) groups (3.1 fold change, P < 0.001, Student t test). C, The collagen fiber morphometric scores recapitulates the differences at the morphometric level between KO (n = 5, mean = 1.6, Std dev = 0.5) and WT (n = 6, mean = 4.5, Std dev = 0.9) groups (2.9 fold change, P < 0.001, Student t test). D, Representative images with augmented digital pathology layers. “Entropy Texture” is one of the architectural phenotypes of fibrosis (39). KO, knockout.
FIGURE 3 from Cancer-associated Fibroblast–specific Expression of the Matricellular Protein CCN1 Coordinates Neovascularization and Stroma Deposition in Melanoma Metastasis
Authors: Hutchenreuther James , Nguyen John , Quesnel Katherine , Vincent Krista M. , Petitjean Louis , Bourgeois Sophia , Boyd Mark , Bou-Gharios George , Postovit Lynne-Marie , Leask Andrew
Published: February 2024

In a syngeneic model of metastasis, CCN1-deficient stroma possesses reduced collagen deposition, whereas myofibroblast formation is unaffected. Skin tissue showed a significant decrease in collagen shown trichrome and Sirius red staining (A; arrow indicates stroma). Representative images shown; Graph shows mean area of collagen, detected using trichrome stain, present in stroma images ± SD; Student t test; n  =  3). α-SMA–expressing myofibroblasts (B) and YAP-positive nuclei (C) are present in both wild-type and CCN1-deficient stroma (Representative images shown; Graphs represent mean α-SMA positive cells ± SD; one-way ANOVA; n  =  5). Mice were examined after 14 days of tumor growth of B16F10 melanoma cells.
FIGURE 1 from Cancer-associated Fibroblast–specific Expression of the Matricellular Protein CCN1 Coordinates Neovascularization and Stroma Deposition in Melanoma Metastasis
Authors: Hutchenreuther James , Nguyen John , Quesnel Katherine , Vincent Krista M. , Petitjean Louis , Bourgeois Sophia , Boyd Mark , Bou-Gharios George , Postovit Lynne-Marie , Leask Andrew
Published: February 2024

CCN1 is expressed by a subset of CAFs and correlates with expression of angiogenic markers. A,CCN1 expression correlates with bulk tumor stromal scores. Scatterplot representation of stromal score (ESTIMATE algorithm) to CCN1 expression in bulk primary melanoma tumors from TCGA (n = 82). The linear regression line is shown in blue, and the 95% confidence interval is shown as a gray area around the regression line. Spearman correlation coefficient and corresponding P value are displayed in the bottom right corner. B,CCN1 gene expression (TPM/10) in melanoma tumor single cells [malignant cells (n = 2,018), T cells (n = 3,321), B cells (n = 818), macrophages (n = 420), natural killer cells (n = 92), endothelial cells (n = 104), and CAFs (n = 106)]. Boxes represent interquartile ranges, and points represent individual sample values. C, Heat map representation of the 50 genes with the highest SD in CAF single cells from human melanoma tumors. CCN1 expression is higher in a particular subset of CAFs (GSE115978). Columns represent single CAF cells, and rows represent Z-score mRNA expression (TPM/10). The horizontal bar denotes different melanoma samples. Scatterplots show CAF-specific CCN1 scores versus gene set enrichment of angiogenesis (D), or EMT gene sets (E; GAGE t statistics) of melanoma bulk primary melanoma tumors from TCGA samples (n = 82). The linear regression line is shown in blue, and the 95% confidence interval is shown as a gray area around the regression line. Spearman correlation coefficient and associated P values are displayed in the bottom right corner.
Data from Cancer-associated Fibroblast–specific Expression of the Matricellular Protein CCN1 Coordinates Neovascularization and Stroma Deposition in Melanoma Metastasis
Authors: Hutchenreuther James , Nguyen John , Quesnel Katherine , Vincent Krista M. , Petitjean Louis , Bourgeois Sophia , Boyd Mark , Bou-Gharios George , Postovit Lynne-Marie , Leask Andrew
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Melanoma is the leading cause of skin cancer–related death. As prognosis of patients with melanoma remains problematic, identification of new therapeutic targets remains essential. Matricellular proteins are nonstructural extracellular matrix proteins. They are secreted into the tumor microenvironment to coordinate behavior among different cell types, yet their contribution to melanoma is underinvestigated. Examples of matricellular proteins include those comprising the CCN family. The CCN family member, CCN1, is highly proangiogenic. Herein, we show that, in human patients with melanoma, although found in several tumor cell types, CCN1 is highly expressed by a subset of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) in patients with melanoma and this expression correlates positively with expression of proangiogenic genes and progressive disease/resistance to anti-PD1 checkpoint inhibitors. Consistent with these observations, in a syngeneic C57BL6 mouse model of melanoma, loss of CCN1 expression from Col1A2-Cre-, herein identified as “universal,” fibroblasts, impaired metastasis of subcutaneously injected B16F10 tumor cells to lung, concomitant with disrupted neovascularization and collagen organization. Disruption of the extracellular matrix in the loss of CCN1 was validated using a novel artificial intelligence–based image analysis platform that revealed significantly decreased phenotypic fibrosis and composite morphometric collagen scores. As drug resistance is linked to matrix deposition and neoangiogenesis, these data suggest that CCN1, due to its multifaceted role, may represent a novel therapeutic target for drug-resistant melanoma. Our data further emphasize the essential role that cancer-associated, (universal) Col1A2-Cre-fibroblasts and extracellular matrix remodeling play in coordinating behavior among different cell types within the tumor microenvironment.
Significance:
In human patients, the expression of proangiogenic matricellular protein CCN1 in CAFs correlates positively with expression of stroma and angiogenic markers and progressive disease/resistance to checkpoint inhibitor therapy. In an animal model, loss of CCN1 from CAFs impaired metastasis of melanoma cells, neovascularization, and collagen deposition, emphasizing that CAFs coordinate cellular behavior in a tumor microenvironment and that CCN1 may be a novel target.
Primary Malignant Melanoma of the Endometrium: A Case Report
Authors: Shi Xiuting , Shi Jie , Li Yanli , Li Xin , Hu Xuemei , Gao Han
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Malignant melanoma most commonly occurs in the skin. Primary malignant melanoma of endometrium is quite rare. Its diagnosis depends on clinical characteristics and pathological examination. It usually exhibits high degree of tumor histology, early onset of distant metastases, and unfavorable prognoses. Case Presentation: In this paper, we report a case of a 73-year-old woman with primary malignant melanoma of endometrium. This patient denied a history of nevus removal or any family medical history of cancer. She was admitted to the hospital for irregular vaginal bleeding after menopause and performed an endometrial biopsy. Pathological of the scrapings suggested malignant melanoma. She subsequently underwent a radical surgery. The final pathology diagnosis was primary malignant melanoma of endometrium, and BRAF gene mutation was detected. The tumor staged as IVB according to the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) classification. Thus, she then started adjuvant chemotherapy. This patient is currently on oral targeted therapy and is still being followed up. Conclusion: Mucosal melanoma is infrequent, and primary malignant melanoma of endometrial is a rare subtype. To the best of our knowledge, malignant melanoma originating from endometrium has never been reported before. It has a high degree of malignancy and is prone to early metastasis. Further investigations are warranted to explore its underlying pathogenesis, management, and outcomes.
ATM Variant as a Cause of Hereditary Cutaneous Melanoma in a Spanish Family: Case Report
Authors: Lendinez-Sanchez Gonzalo , Diaz-Redondo Tamara , Iglesias Campos Marcos , Porta Pelayo Javier , Porta Pelayo José María , Muriel-López Carolina
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Ataxia-Telangiectasia Mutated (ATM) is a cancer predisposition gene; carriers of germline pathogenic variants have an increased risk of developing malignancies, including breast, prostate, pancreatic, and ovarian cancer. Most ATM variants are of uncertain significance. Findings from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) suggest that ATM may be a low-risk melanoma susceptibility locus. Case Report: We report the case of a Hispanic family whose members who have presented cutaneous melanoma have been found to be carriers for the ATM pathogenic variant c.3747-1G>C (rs730881364), one of whom was diagnosed at 24 years old. Discussion: We describe for the first time the possible clinical association between ATM (c.3747-1G>C) and familial melanoma. In silico splice site analysis predicts that this alteration will weaken the native splice acceptor site and will result in the creation or strengthening of a novel splice acceptor site, assuming a variant that entails loss of functionality that is probably pathogenic and related to oncogenesis. However, we cannot exclude that cutaneous melanoma in both members and at an early age is the result of chance, environmental interaction, other uncontrolled external factors, or the interaction of other genetic alterations other than the ATM variant described in this study.
Nurses’ Social Representations of Men’s Sexual Health Care Access: Preliminary Results
Authors: Tereso Alexandra , Antunes Lina , Brantes Ana , Fernandes João , Santos Rui , Antunes Ricardo , Curado Alice
Published: February 2024

Background: Men’s access to sexual health care is influenced by the nurses’ symbolic universes, translated into maps of signification and normative idealization that structure their practices. Aim: The aim of the study was to analyze nurses’ social representations of men’s sexual health, considering the barriers and possibilities in accessing health care. Methods: Descriptive study with qualitative approach. Data were collected through an online focus group with 9 Portuguese nurses. Data were subjected to lexicographic analysis with the support of the interface IRaMuTeQ-R. Results: 269 text segments were analyzed, retaining 84.86% of the total in 4 classes: interactions between professionals and men, therapeutic itineraries, “talking” about sexual health, and men’s access to sexual health care. Similarity analysis led to 3 central cores: problem, saying, and patient. Conclusions: The training of professionals in men’s sexual health to demystify stereotypes about masculinity is fundamental. At the organizational level, it is necessary to analyze the possibilities of access and its visibility in electronic records and rethink the planning and provision of primary and differentiated care.
Evaluation of the Cytokine Response Induced by Specific Allergen Immunotherapy in Patients with Vespa velutina Anaphylaxis
Authors: López-Freire Sara , Armisén Margarita , Cruz María Jesús , Vidal Carmen
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Changes in the cytokine profile from type 2 to type 1 together with the induction of regulatory cells are expected during hymenoptera venom immunotherapy (VIT). The present study was aimed to investigate the changes in type 1, type 2, and regulatory cytokines induced by a Vespula spp. VIT in patients with anaphylaxis to Vespa velutina. Methods: Twenty consecutive patients with anaphylaxis due to Vespa velutina were treated with Vespula spp. VIT. Serum cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, IL-13, and IFN-ɣ) were measured at baseline, 6, and 12 months after starting VIT. Results: A significant increase in serum IFN-y was detected after 6 and 12 months of VIT. An increase in serum IL-10 and a decrease in IL-5 were observed after 12 months. IL-4 was undetectable all along the study, and an unexpected increase of IL-13 was present at 12 months of treatment. Conclusion: Vespula spp. VIT seems to be able to induce a shift to type 1 cytokine production measured through IFN-y levels and IL-10 production after, at least, 6 and 12 months of VIT, respectively.