bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Arabidopsis transcription factorTCP9modulates root architectural plasticity, reactive oxygen species‐mediated processes, and tolerance to cyst nematode infections
Authors: Willig Jaap‐Jan , Guarneri Nina , van Steenbrugge Joris J. M. , de Jong Willem , Chen Jingrong , Goverse Aska , Lozano Torres José L. , Sterken Mark G. , Bakker Jaap , Smant Geert
Published: October 2022

Infections by root‐feeding nematodes have profound effects on root system architecture and consequently shoot growth of host plants. Plants harbor intraspecific variation in their growth responses to belowground biotic stresses by nematodes, but the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Here, we show that the transcription factor TEOSINTE BRANCHED/CYCLOIDEA/PROLIFERATING CELL FACTOR‐9 (TCP9) modulates root system architectural plasticity inArabidopsis thalianain response to infections by the endoparasitic cyst nematodeHeterodera schachtii. Young seedlings oftcp9knock‐out mutants display a significantly weaker primary root growth inhibition response to cyst nematodes than wild‐type Arabidopsis. In older plants,tcp9reduces the impact of nematode infections on the emergence and growth of secondary roots. Importantly, the altered growth responses bytcp9are most likely not caused by less biotic stress on the root system, because TCP9 does not affect the number of infections, nematode development, and size of the nematode‐induced feeding structures. RNA‐sequencing of nematode‐infected roots of thetcp9mutants revealed differential regulation of enzymes involved in reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis and responses to oxidative stress. We also found that root and shoot growth oftcp9mutants is less sensitive to exogenous hydrogen peroxide and that ROS accumulation in nematode infection sites in these mutants is reduced. Altogether, these observations demonstrate that TCP9 modulates the root system architectural plasticity to nematode infections via ROS‐mediated processes. Our study further points at a novel regulatory mechanism contributing to the tolerance of plants to root‐feeding nematodes by mitigating the impact of belowground biotic stresses.
Do imports of intermediate inputs generate higher productivity? Evidence from Ecuadorian manufacturing firms
Authors: Camino‐Mogro Segundo , Carrillo‐Maldonado Paul
Published: October 2022

This paper examines the causal effect of importing on firm productivity. We use an augmented Cobb–Douglas production function in which the static and dynamic effects of importing and exporting are estimated for formal manufacturing firms in Ecuador. We use a rich administrative data set that covers the period 2007–2018 and estimate total factor productivity (TFP) at the firm level. Our results show that both static and dynamic effects are important sources of gains from importing. We find that static and dynamic gains in productivity from importing intermediates are higher in more innovative industries than in less innovative industries, which implies an industrial heterogeneity effect. We also find that the elasticity of substitution between imported and domestic intermediates in all the industries are substitute inputs. Finally, we provide robust evidence in favour of self‐selection on the entry and exit side sides of the market. Our estimation results provide support to the learning‐by‐importing hypothesis.
Chronic reduction of store operated Ca2+ entry is viable therapeutically but is associated with cardiovascular complications
Authors: Yu Fang , Courjaret Raphael , Elmi Asha , Adap Ethel Alcantara , Orie Nelson N. , Zghyer Fawzi , Hubrack Satanay , Hayat Sajad , Asaad Nidal , Worgall Stefan , Suthanthiran Manikkam , Ali Vidya Mohamed , Machaca Khaled
Published: October 2022

Loss of function mutations in store‐operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE) are associated with severe paediatric disorders in humans, including combined immunodeficiency, anaemia, thrombocytopenia, anhidrosis and muscle hypotonia. Given its central role in immune cell activation, SOCE has been a therapeutic target for autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Treatment for such chronic diseases would require prolonged SOCE inhibition. It is, however, unclear whether chronic SOCE inhibition is viable therapeutically. Here we address this issue using a novel genetic mouse model (SOCE hypomorph) with deficient SOCE, nuclear factor of activated T cells activation, and T cell cytokine production. SOCE hypomorph mice develop and reproduce normally and do not display muscle weakness or overt anhidrosis. They do, however, develop cardiovascular complications, including hypertension and tachycardia, which we show are due to increased sympathetic autonomic nervous system activity and not cardiac or vascular smooth muscle autonomous defects. These results assert that chronic SOCE inhibition is viable therapeutically if the cardiovascular complications can be managed effectively clinically. They further establish the SOCE hypomorph line as a genetic model to define the therapeutic window of SOCE inhibition and dissect toxicities associated with chronic SOCE inhibition in a tissue‐specific fashion.

image

Key points

A floxed stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1) hypomorph mouse model was generated with significant reduction in Ca2+ influx through store‐operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE), resulting in defective nuclear translocation of nuclear factor of activated T cells, cytokine production and inflammatory response. The hypomorph mice are viable and fertile, with no overt defects.

Decreased SOCE in the hypomorph mice is due to poor translocation of the mutant STIM1 to endoplasmic reticulum–plasma membrane contact sites resulting in fewer STIM1 puncta.

Hypomorph mice have similar susceptibility to controls to develop diabetes but exhibit tachycardia and hypertension. The hypertension is not due to increased vascular smooth muscle contractility or vascular remodelling.

The tachycardia is not due to heart‐specific defects but rather seems to be due to increased circulating catecholamines in the hypomorph.

Therefore, long term SOCE inhibition is viable if the cardiovascular defects can be managed clinically.
Higgs-mass prediction in the NMSSM with heavy BSM particles
Authors: Bagnaschi Emanuele , Goodsell Mark , Slavich Pietro
Published: October 2022

We address the prediction for the mass of the SM-like Higgs boson in NMSSM scenarios where all BSM particles, including the singlets, have masses at the TeV scale. We provide a full one-loop computation of the matching condition for the quartic Higgs coupling in the NMSSM, supplemented with the two-loop contributions that involve the strong gauge coupling. We discuss the impact of the one- and two-loop corrections that are specific to the NMSSM on the prediction for the Higgs mass, and propose a method to estimate of the uncertainty associated with the uncomputed higher-order terms. Finally, we illustrate how the measured value of the Higgs mass can be used to constrain some yet-unmeasured parameters of the NMSSM.
Data Mining and Network Pharmacology Analysis of Kidney-Tonifying Herbs on the Treatment of Renal Osteodystrophy Based on the Theory of “Kidney Governing Bones” in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Authors: Tong Xue , Yang Yuanjian , Gong Shuwei , Han Xiao , Wu Yanfei , Ma Xiaoran , Lang Shuang , Ma Jianxiong , Ma Xinlong
Published: October 2022

Background. Renal osteodystrophy (ROD) secondary to chronic kidney disease is closely associated with osteoporosis and fractures. Based on the theory of “kidney governing bones” in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), treating bone diseases from the perspective of the kidney has become a basic principle of treating ROD. However, there are many kidney-tonifying herbs and their mechanisms of treating ROD are not clear. Therefore, our study intends to use data mining and network pharmacology to study the commonly used kidney-tonifying herbs, as well as their active ingredients and mechanisms of treating ROD. Methods. We established a clinical ROD database by searching PubMed, CNKI, and other databases and screened out a core herbal combination of treating ROD. Furthermore, by using databases such as Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform and GeneCards, we obtained active ingredients and targets of the core herbal combination and ROD targets. The STRING website and Cytoscape software were then used to obtain information on key active ingredients and key targets. Finally, we conducted GO and KEGG analyses using the Metascape website and molecular docking using the AutoDock Vina software. Results. Our study eventually included 58 prescriptions and 116 herbs of treating ROD. Through data mining, we found that yin-yang-huo, du-zhong, and bu-gu-zhi (YDB) constituted a core herbal combination to treat ROD. Network pharmacology showed that YDB mainly acted on targets such as estrogen receptor alpha through active ingredients such as quercetin by mitogen-activated protein kinase and other signaling pathways. Conclusion. Many ingredients, targets, and pathways are involved in the treatment of YDB for ROD. Specifically, the flavonoids contained in YDB have great potential for ROD treatment.
Controlled Crystallinity of TiO2 Layers Grown by Atmospheric Pressure Spatial Atomic Layer Deposition and their Impact on Perovskite Solar Cell Efficiency
Authors: Zimmermann Eugen , Wong Ka Kan , Seewald Tobias , Kalb Julian , Linke Jonathan , Hahn Giso , Schmidt-Mende Lukas
Published: October 2022

Atmospheric Pressure Spatial Atomic Layer Deposition (AP-SALD) is an upcoming deposition technique suitable for a variety of materials and combines the benefits of a regular atomic layer deposition with a significantly increased deposition rate at ambient conditions. In this work, amorphous and anatase TiO2 layers are fabricated by AP-SALD via systematic variation of process conditions such as temperature, reactant (H2O and O3), and posttreatment. The formed layers are characterized for their structural and optoelectronic properties and utilized as a hole-blocking layer in hybrid perovskite solar cells. It is found that TiO2 layers fabricated at elevated deposition temperatures possess strong anatase character but expose an unfavorable interface to the perovskite layer, promoting recombination and lowering the shunt resistance and open circuit voltage of the solar cells. Therefore, the interface is essential for efficient charge extraction, which can be significantly improved by controlling the process parameters.
An Inquiry into Model Validity When Addressing Complex Sustainability Challenges
Authors: Scrieciu Şerban , Varga Liz , Zimmermann Nici , Chalabi Zaid , Freeman Rachel , Dolan Tom , Borisoglebsky Dmitry E. , Davies Mike
Published: October 2022

Scientific modelling is a prime means to generate understanding and provide much‐needed information to support public decision‐making in the fluid area of sustainability. A growing, diverse sustainability modelling literature, however, does not readily lend itself to standard validation procedures, which are typically rooted in the positivist principles of empirical verification and predictive success. Yet, to be useful to decision‐makers, models, including their outputs and the processes through which they are established must be, and must be seen to be “valid.” This study explores what model validity means in a problem space with increasingly interlinked and fast‐moving challenges. We examine validation perspectives through ontological, epistemic, and methodological lenses, for a range of modelling approaches that can be considered as “complexity‐compatible.” The worldview taken in complexity‐compatible modelling departs from the more standard modelling assumptions of complete objectivity and full predictability. Drawing on different insights from complexity science, systems thinking, economics, and mathematics, we suggest a ten‐dimensional framework for progressing on model validity when investigating sustainability concerns. As such, we develop a widened view of the meaning of model validity for sustainability. It includes (i) acknowledging that several facets of validation are critical for the successful modelling of the sustainability of complex systems; (ii) tackling the thorny issues of uncertainty, subjectivity, and unpredictability; (iii) exploring the realism of model assumptions and mechanisms; (iv) embracing the role of stakeholder engagement and scrutiny throughout the modelling process; and (v) considering model purpose when assessing model validity. We wish to widen the debate on the meaning of model validity in a constructive way. We conclude that consideration of all these elements is necessary to enable sustainability models to support, more effectively, decision‐making for complex interdependent systems.
Contrastive Learning-Based Haze Visibility Enhancement in Intelligent Maritime Transportation System
Authors: Hu Xianjun , Wang Jing , Li Guilian
Published: October 2022

With the rapid development of artificial intelligence and big traffic data, the data-driven intelligent maritime transportation has received significant attention in both industry and academia. It is capable of improving traffic efficiency and reducing traffic accidents in maritime applications. However, video cameras often suffer from severe haze weather, leading to degraded visual data and ineffective maritime surveillance. It is thus necessary to restore the visually degraded images and to guarantee maritime transportation efficiency and safety under hazy imaging conditions. In this work, a contrastive learning framework is proposed for haze visibility enhancement in intelligent maritime transportation systems. In particular, the proposed learning method could fully learn both local and global image features, which are beneficial for visual quality improvement. A total of 100 clean images containing water traffic scenes were selected as the synthetic test dataset, and good dehazing results were achieved on both visual and indexing results (e.g., peak signal to noise ratio (PSNR):

23.95
±
3.48

and structural similarity index (SSIM):

0.924
±
0.065

for different transmittance and atmospheric light values). In addition, extensive experiments on real-world 100 water hazy images demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method (e.g., natural image quality evaluator (NIQE):

4.800
±
0.634

and perception-based image quality evaluator (PIQE):

46.320
±
10.253

). The enhanced images could be effectively exploited for promoting the accuracy and robustness of ship detection. The maritime traffic supervision and management could be accordingly improved in the intelligent transportation system.
Tent Chaotic Map and Population Classification Evolution Strategy-Based Dragonfly Algorithm for Global Optimization
Authors: Wang Yu , Zhang Xia , Yu Dao-Jie , Bai Yi-Jie , Du Jian-Ping , Tian Zhou-Tai
Published: October 2022

Dragonfly algorithm (DA) is a recently proposed optimization algorithm based on swarm intelligence, which has been successfully applied in function optimization, feature selection, parameter adjustment, etc. However, it fails to take individual optimal position into consideration but only relies on population optimal position and 5 behaviours to update individual position, leading to low accuracy, slow convergence, and local optima. To overcome these drawbacks, Tent Chaotic Map and Population Classification Evolution Strategy-Based Dragonfly Algorithm (TPDA) is proposed. Tent chaotic map is used to initialize the population, making individuals distributed more uniformly in search space to improve population diversity and search efficiency. Population is classified according to individual fitness value, and different position update methods are adopted for different types of individuals to guide the search process and improve the ability of TPDA to jump out of local optima, thus realizing a balance between exploration and exploitation. The efficiency of TPDA has been validated by tests on 18 basic unconstrained benchmark functions. A comparative performance analysis between TPDA, Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), DA, and Adaptive Learning Factor and Differential Evolution-Based Dragonfly Algorithm (ADDA) has been carried out. Experimental and statistical results demonstrate that TPDA gives significantly better performances compared with PSO, DA, and ADDA on the average and standard deviation in all 18 functions. The global optimization capability of TPDA on high-dimensional functions and the comparison of the time complexity of TPDA and other swarm intelligence algorithms is also verified in the paper. The results indicate that TPDA is able to perform better on optimizing functions without consuming more computational time.
Characterizing PTP4A3/PRL-3 as the Potential Prognostic Marker Gene for Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Jin Xin , Shi Haida , Li Zhi , Li Huixing , Ma Huanxian , Shi Xianjie
Published: October 2022

Background. A large number of cancer-related deaths in the world can be attributed to liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC). The purpose of this study is to explore protein tyrosine phosphatase type IV A member 3 (PTP4A3/PRL-3) as a new and reliable biomarker to predict the prognosis of LIHC and determine the potential therapeutic targets or drugs that can be used for treating LIHC. Methods. We included three LIHC datasets with clinical information and expression profiles from public databases. The expression level of PTP4A3 was analyzed, and based on the results, the samples were divided into high- and low-expression groups. The Kaplan–Meier survival analysis method was used to determine the relationship between PTP4A3 and prognosis. The enrichment differences among the functional pathways associated with the high- and low-expression groups were determined using the gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) method. Five methods were used to determine the differences among the tumor microenvironment in the low- and high-expression groups. The sensitivity of the low- and high-expression groups toward different drug treatment methods was predicted by analyzing the Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion (TIDE) scores and determining the biochemical half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50). Results. The expression levels of the LIHC and adjacent samples were analyzed, and it was observed that the expression level of PTP4A3 in tumor tissue was significantly higher than the expression level of the same gene in the adjacent samples. It was also inferred that it might be a cancer-promoting gene. It was concluded that high-expression results in a significantly poor prognosis. The high-expression group was significantly enriched in the tumor-related pathways, such as the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway. In addition, the results obtained by conducting immune infiltration analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between some immune scores and the gene PTP4A3. The drug KIN001−135 and gene PTP4A3 were also found to correlate positively with each other. CP466722, Pyrimethamine, AKT inhibitor VIII, Embelin, Cisplatin, QS11, Bexarotene, and Midostaurin negatively correlated with PTP4A3 associated with the three datasets. Moreover, the drugs Cisplatin, QS11, Midostaurin, and CP466722 were more sensitive toward the high-expression group than the low PTP4A3 expression group. Significant differences were observed in these cases. Conclusion. PTP4A3/PRL-3 is potentially associated with the progression, metastasis, and invasion of LIHC. The prognosis of LIHC patients is negatively impacted by the high-expression levels of the gene. The results indicate that PTP4A3/PRL-3 is an important prognostic factor for LIHC and is a new potential prognostic detection target. The discovery of the 8 drugs that were negatively associated with PTP4A3 provided a new direction that can be developed in the future for the treatment of LIHC.
Design of Financial Crisis Early Warning Model Based on PSO-SVM Algorithm
Authors: Li Wan
Published: October 2022

To address the problem that the accuracy of the SVM algorithm is affected by random parameters at the input end, a financial crisis early warning model (FCEWM) based on PSO-SVM is constructed based on the nonequilibrium sample characteristics of different financial conditions of listed companies in China’s gem. The model uses the PSO algorithm to optimize the parameters of SVM and selects 24 financial risk evaluation indexes as the input to predict the financial crisis. The results show that the proposed model is superior to other models in prediction accuracy and robustness.
FAIM Enhances the Efficacy of Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation by Inhibiting JNK-Induced c-FLIP Ubiquitination and Degradation
Authors: Chen Jinyong , Liu Feng , Hu Wangxing , Qian Yi , Xu Dilin , Gao Chenyang , Zeng Zhiru , Cheng Si , Xie Lan , Yu Kaixiang , Zhu Gangjie , Liu Xianbao
Published: October 2022

Background. The poor survival rates of transplanted mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in harsh microenvironments impair the efficacy of MSCs transplantation in myocardial infarction (MI). Extrinsic apoptosis pathways play an important role in the apoptosis of transplanted MSCs, and Fas apoptosis inhibitory molecule (FAIM) is involved in regulation of the extrinsic apoptosis pathway. Thus, we aimed to explore whether FAIM augmentation protects MSCs against stress-induced apoptosis and thereby improves the therapeutic efficacy of MSCs. Methods. We ligated the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) in the mouse heart to generate an MI model and then injected FAIM-overexpressing MSCs (MSCsFAIM) into the peri-infarction area in vivo. Moreover, FAIM-overexpressing MSCs were challenged with oxygen, serum, and glucose deprivation (OGD) in vitro, which mimicked the harsh microenvironment that occurs in cardiac infarction. Results. FAIM was markedly downregulated under OGD conditions, and FAIM overexpression protected MSCs against OGD-induced apoptosis. MSCsFAIM transplantation improved cell retention, strengthened angiogenesis, and ameliorated heart function. The antiapoptotic effect of FAIM was mediated by cellular-FLICE inhibitory protein (c-FLIP), and FAIM augmentation improved the protein expression of c-FLIP by reducing ubiquitin–proteasome-dependent c-FLIP degradation. Furthermore, FAIM inhibited the activation of JNK, and treatment with the JNK inhibitor SP600125 abrogated the reduction in c-FLIP protein expression caused by FAIM silencing. Conclusions. Overall, these results indicated that FAIM curbed the JNK-mediated, ubiquitination–proteasome-dependent degradation of c-FLIP, thereby improving the survival of transplanted MSCs and enhancing their efficacy in MI. This study may provide a novel approach to strengthen the therapeutic effect of MSC-based therapy.
Evaluation and Analysis of Electric Power in China Based on the ARMA Model
Authors: Yu Lei
Published: October 2022

With the rapid development of China’s economy, power demand has been closely linked with economic development in order to analyze and predict the future power situation in China. Based on the historical data of China’s electricity consumption, this paper analyzes the data characteristics of China’s electricity consumption by using Eviews software. The long-term trend of power consumption sequence is eliminated by fitting the regression curve, and then the residual sequence is analyzed and identified according to the relevant theory of time series. Using the data of China’s power demand from 2004 to 2019, the ARMA time series model is used to analyze China’s future power situation finally according to the test statistics of the model. Finally, the exponential regression ARMA model is selected to predict China’s electricity consumption. The index regression analysis method extracts the long-term characteristic information of the sequence, which is conducive to the stability processing and empirical analysis of long-term prediction. The result predicts China’s power demand in 2020 more accurately, which can provide a reference for the future productivity layout of China’s power.
Theoretical Analysis of Superphenalene Using Different Kinds of VDB Indices
Authors: Julietraja K. , Alsinai Ammar , Alameri Abdu
Published: October 2022

Topological indices (TIs) are numerical quantities that enable theoretical chemists to analyse molecular structures mathematically. These TIs are essential to exploring chemical compounds using theoretical techniques like QSAR/QSPR methods. Superphenalene is a large polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon molecule which has been quickly gaining importance as a building block for alternate energy providers due to its photovoltaic properties. The exciting features of this compound, coupled with its potential applications, warrant an investigation of its nature and properties from a structural perspective. The objective of this research is to compute the proper analytical expressions of four kinds of vertex degree-based (VDB) indices for superphenalene. The numerical values of these indices and 3D graphical representations also help in understanding the relationship between the VDB indices of the compound and its underlying chemical structure quantitatively.
A Modified Hybrid Method Based on PSO, GA, and K-Means for Network Anomaly Detection
Authors: Yuan Yuan , Li Yuangang
Published: October 2022

Data anomaly detection plays a vital role in protecting network security and developing network technology. Aiming at the detection problems of large data volume, complex information, and difficult identification, this paper constructs a modified hybrid anomaly detection (MHAD) method based on the K-means clustering algorithm, particle swarm optimization, and genetic algorithm. First, by designing coding rules and fitness functions, the multiattribute data is effectively clustered, and the inheritance of good attributes is guaranteed. Second, by applying selection, crossover, and mutation operators to particle position and velocity updates, local optima problems are avoided and population diversity is ensured. Finally, the Fisher score expression for data attribute extraction is constructed, which reduces the required sample size and improves the detection efficiency. The experimental results show that the MHAD method has better performance than the K-means clustering algorithm, the support vector machine, decision trees, and other methods in the four indicators of recall, precision, prediction accuracy, and F-measure. The main advantages of the proposed method are that it achieves a balance between global and local search and ensures a high detection rate and a low false positive rate.
Rapid Improvement in Neck Disability, Mobility, and Sleep Quality with Chronic Neck Pain Treated by Fu’s Subcutaneous Needling: A Randomized Control Study
Authors: Huang Ching-Hsuan , Tsai Lung-Hung , Sun Mao-Feng , Fu Zhonghua , Sun Jian , Chou Li-Wei
Published: October 2022

Background. Chronic neck pain is a common musculoskeletal disorder caused by overuse of neck and upper back muscles or poor posture, and it is commonly combined with a limited range of motion in the neck and shoulders. Most cases will recover within a few days; however, the symptoms often recur easily. Fu’s subcutaneous needling (FSN) is a new therapeutic approach used to treat patients with chronic neck pain. However, there is no solid evidence to support the effectiveness of FSN on chronic neck pain and disability. Methods. Participants (n = 60) with chronic neck pain for more than 2 months with pain intensity scored by visual analog scale (VAS) more than five were enrolled in this trial. Participants were equally randomized into the FSN or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) group who received interventions once a day on day 1, day 2, and day 4. They were assessed by outcome measurements during pre- and post-treatment and followed up for 15 days. Results. The VAS was immediately reduced in the FSN and TENS groups and sustained for 15 days of follow-up (all

P
<
0.001

). The immediate effects were also observed as the pressure pain threshold increased in the FSN group on day 2 (

P
=
0.006

) and day 4 (

P
=
0.023

) after treatment, and tissue hardness decreased by FSN on day 1 and day 2 after treatment (both

P
<
0.001

). FSN and TENS treatment improved neck disability and mobility; moreover, FSN promoted participants to receive better sleep quality, as determined by PSQI assessment (

P
=
0.030

). TENS had no benefit on sleep quality. Conclusion. FSN was able to relieve pain and relax muscle tightness. Notably, FSN significantly improved neck disability and mobility and enhanced sleep quality. These findings demonstrated that FSN could be an effective alternative treatment option for patients with chronic neck pain. Clinical Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03605576, registered on July 30, 2018.
Construction of Nomogram-Based Prediction Model for Clinical Prognosis of Patients with Stage II and III Colon Cancer Who Underwent Xelox Chemotherapy after Laparoscopic Radical Resection
Authors: Sun Qiang , Xu Kai , Teng Shifeng , Wang Wenqiang , Zhang Wei , Li Xinxing , Hu Zhiqian
Published: October 2022

Objective. To construct a nomogram-based prediction model for the clinical prognosis of patients with stage II and III colon cancer who underwent Xelox chemotherapy after laparoscopic radical resection based on large data sets. Methods. A total of 7,832 patients with colorectal cancer who received postoperative Xelox-based chemotherapy were screened from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database (USA) as the training data set. In addition, 348 domestic patients were screened as the validation data set. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed to identify variables for inclusion in the nomogram-based prediction model. The predictive accuracy of the model was assessed using C-index and calibration curve. Results. Age, cell differentiation, nerve invasion, T and N stages of tumours, number of dissected lymph nodes, and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level were found to influence the efficacy of postoperative chemotherapy. The nomogram-based prediction model was successfully constructed. The C-index of both the training set and validation set were higher than those of the 7th edition of TNM staging system published by the American Joint Commission on Cancer (

C
−
index
 
of
 
training
 
data
 
set
=
0.728

,

C
−
index
 
of
 
validation
 
data
 
set
=
0.734

). The prediction results of the model in the calibration curve showed a good fit with the actual situation. Conclusion. We successfully constructed a nomogram-based model to predict the clinical prognosis of patients with colorectal cancer receiving postoperative Xelox-based chemotherapy after laparoscopic radical resection, which showed good clinical application value for predicting the efficacy of postoperative Xelox-based chemotherapy in patients with colorectal cancer.
Application of Edge Computing and Data Mining Processing System in Preschool Education Courses
Authors: Xu Baoliang
Published: October 2022

With the deepening of reform and opening up, my country’s preschool education has entered a vigorous development. At the same time, higher requirements are put forward for the field of preschool education. Preschool education is an important part of education, and preschool education is the foundation of basic education. However, the informatization construction in the field of preschool education in my country has just started. In order to implement the planning requirements of the Ministry of Education on strengthening the informatization construction of preschool education, build a digital platform, improve children’s quality, promote the harmonious development of children’s body and mind, improve professional ethics and the professional level of preschool education practitioners with the help of modern new media, and meet the professional development and sense of achievement, acquisition, and satisfaction of preschool education practitioners. Taking multiple measures to ensure the diversified needs of preschool education practitioners is the important and only means for the stable, comprehensive, and sustainable development of preschool education. The data visualization platform of IOT architecture designed in this paper for edge computing ensures the application of massive data in preschool education courses, ensures the stability of system data transmission, and realizes the visualization of IOT terminal data. Therefore, the introduction of data mining technology in this paper can improve the utilization of resources, provide support for teachers, students, and ordinary users, and enhance the versatility of the preschool education resource platform.
Multiattribute Group Decision-Making Method Based on Quaternary Connection Number of Cloud Models
Authors: Cheng Huabin , Chen Yingchun , Xiong Ping
Published: October 2022

Based on the advantages of cloud theory and the connection number approach in handling uncertain information, this paper established a new quaternary connection number using the domain of interval corresponding to the centroid of a cloud model’s expectation curve. Consequently, based on the cloud model theory of transformation between qualitative and quantitative uncertainties, this study suggests a model describing uncertain information more precisely by combining the advantages of quaternary connection numbers with three digital aspects of the cloud model. We defined the weighted nearness degree of the new connection number and gave a solution for finding the weight of the weighted nearness degree given that a three-parameter interval number can more precisely represent the expert’s true intention than a classical interval number. The method of multiattribute group decision-making based on a cloud model’s quaternary connection number was developed using a novel methodology to find the evaluation-index weight. According to a comparative analysis, the existing membership cloud gravity center (MCGC) method is nothing more than an exception to our proposed decision-making technique. It was also demonstrated that the proposal may present a more complete picture of experts’ overall evaluations and communicate their preferences by adjusting the quaternion’s uncertain parameters, making the group decision-making approach more widely applicable to a certain extent. The method was used to test a vessel’s counterflooding capabilities to ensure its practicality and supremacy.
Evaluation of xylem maturation and among-site variation in the anatomical characteristics of Betula platyphylla growing naturally in Mongolia
Authors: Erdene-Ochir Togtokhbayar , Ishiguri Futoshi , Nezu Ikumi , Tumenjargal Bayasaa , Baasan Bayartsetseg , Chultem Ganbaatar , Ohshima Jyunichi , Yokota Shinso
Published: October 2022

Betula platyphylla Sukaczev, a fast-growing pioneer tree, is an important species for wood resources in boreal regions and steppe areas in Mongolia. We examined the anatomy and maturation of wood in 30 B. platyphylla trees growing in natural populations in three different sites in Mandal, Selenge, Mongolia to clarify the relationship between tree growth and wood formation. Core samples, 5 mm in diameter, were collected from 30 trees with the mean stem diameter at each site. The radial variations in the anatomical characteristics were evaluated using linear or nonlinear mixed-effects models. Almost all measured anatomical characteristics increased from the pith to the bark. Fiber length showed an annual increase of over 1% up to about the 20th annual ring from the pith, beyond which the increase was less than 1%, suggesting that xylem maturation started around the 20th annual ring. The growth rate at the early growth stage did not affect the annual ring number where xylem maturation began. The linear mixed-effects model revealed a site variation in wood fiber wall thickness. Thus, in combination with previous research results with this species, we believe that the selection of superior trees with thicker fiber walls might be possible for future tree breeding programs aimed at improving wood quality for pulp and paper raw materials and the production of solid wood and wood-based materials.
Wood anatomy of 13 species from a successional tropical dry forest: description and ecological implications
Authors: Romero Eunice , Terrazas Teresa , González Edgar J. , Meave Jorge A.
Published: October 2022

Successional tropical dry forest (TDF) species face water scarcity in the harsh dry season. Wood features provide insight into potential hydraulic stress coping mechanisms. Here, we describe the wood anatomy of 13 species occurring frequently in successional TDF. Given the marked rainfall seasonality of TDF, we expected these species to share conspicuous growth rings boundaries and drought-adapted anatomical features such as paratracheal parenchyma; although given the taxonomic and phenological diversity, a high wood diversity was also expected. Most species have diffuse-porosity. Axial parenchyma is diversely associated with vessels. Simple perforation plates are common and exclusive to all species. Different features poorly delimit growth boundaries, as previously observed in other tropical species. The main ground tissue is diverse, including nonseptate fibers, septate living fibers, or exclusively parenchyma. Axial and radial parenchyma may be scarce, abundant, or represent the main and unlignified ground tissue component. Vessel grouping ranges from solitary and 2–29 vessels per group. The mean vessel diameter range is ⩽50–200 μm; fiber walls are very thin to very thick. The anatomical features recorded among successional TDF species suggest different water stress coping mechanisms resulting from various anatomical combinations. Seven species exhibit wood features associated with drought tolerance (higher hydraulic redundancy, higher mechanical resistance, with vessel-ray connectivity likely given by banded parenchyma), whereas six species share xylem features associated with drought avoidance (taller and wider rays indicating higher water storage capacity). The complexity and multifunctionality of stem woody tissue should caution us against oversimplifying the relationship between anatomy, function, and ecological performance of TDF species.
Do All Languages Share the Same Conceptual Structure?
Authors: Bacelar Valente Mario
Published: October 2022

In this work, we consider the views of three exponents of major areas of linguistics – Levelt (psycholinguistics), Jackendoff (theoretical linguistics), and Gil (field linguistics) – regarding the issue of the universality or not of the conceptual structure of languages. In Levelt’s view, during language production, the conceptual structure of the preverbal message is language-specific. In Jackendoff’s theoretical approach to language – his parallel architecture – there is a universal conceptual structure shared by all languages, in contradiction to Levelt’s view. In Gil’s work on Riau Indonesian, he proposes a conceptual structure that is quite different from that of English, adopted by Jackendoff as universal. We find no reason to disagree with Gil’s view. In this way, we take Gil’s work as vindicating Levelt’s view that during language production preverbal messages are encoded with different conceptual structures for different languages.
Suprasegmentals: An Exercise in Cognitive Phonology
Authors: Hamawand Zeki
Published: October 2022

This study provides an analysis of suprasegmental units in English within the framework of Cognitive Phonology, including stress, intonation and juncture. In this regard, two aspects are explained. The first is integration: the way the subparts are combined to form a composite structure. This is done by means of pivotal mechanisms, where the integration of segmentals and suprasegmentals are subject to correspondence, determinacy, elaboration and constituency. The second is interpretation: the way the meaning of the resulting composite structure is explained. This is done by means of construal, where the use of a suprasegmental unit is the outcome of the specific construal the speaker chooses to describe a situation. The aim is to show, through examples, that the use of a suprasegmental unit is a manifestation of a communicative intention. The implication is that suprasegmental units are essential; they are cognitive operations carried out on the baseline, and so conveyors of meaning. As an aspect of language, suprasegmental units can be described as an instance of B/E organization, where a word, phrase or sentence represents the baseline, while the suprasegmenal unit represents the elaboration.
Resident Perspectives on the Value of Rural General Surgery Rotations: It’s Not Just About the Cases
Authors: Hughes Dorothy , Wood Rebekah , Woods Randy , Sarap Michael
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Understand the scope of cases that residents participate in during rural general surgery rotations and the value residents and program directors find in such rotations. In turn, our goal is to add to the ongoing conversation the value exposure to rural surgery brings to surgery training.

Methods

Qualitative study analyzed reviews of residents’ self-reported case lists and field notes from exit interviews with the site director.

Results

Trainees participated in an average of 105 cases during the rotation, including basic and advanced endoscopy along with exposure to a wide array of surgical cases. Residents had exposure to the rural facility and its staff and participated in a busy outpatient surgical clinic, the hospital, and community activities. We received overwhelmingly positive qualitative feedback from residents regarding how this rural rotation advanced their skills, helped prepare them for life after residency, and for some confirmed their plans to practice in a rural location.

Conclusion

With the decline in the number of rural general surgeons and projected continuance of this trend, it is important to understand how trainees view their residency experiences and how those experiences may be shaping their outlook on career choices. Our single-site, qualitative study showed that a rural general surgery rotation during residency has broad importance and value in general surgery resident training. Having a rural rotation also allowed residents to gain understanding of a rural lifestyle, workflow, and the social fabric including the rural surgeons’ connections with their communities.
The CASA Criteria for Evaluating Gifted and Talented Identification Systems: Cost, Alignment, Sensitivity, and Access
Authors: Peters Scott J. , Stambaugh Tamra , Makel Matthew C. , Lee Lindsay Ellis , McBee Matthew T. , McCoach D. Betsy , Johnson Kiana R.
Published: October 2022

Debates over identification procedures for gifted and talented students dominate the field and serve as the topic of many of its internal and external debates. We believe this is due to a lack of commonly accepted criteria for how to evaluate identification procedures. In this article, we present the Cost, Alignment, Sensitivity, and Access (CASA) criteria, a framework to evaluate identification systems according to their cost, alignment to services, sensitivity, and access. We believe these criteria would facilitate more productive conversations over identification and continued growth and improvement for the field as a whole.
Conceptualising and Measuring Leadership Autonomy in Contemporary Party Organisations
Authors: Lisi Marco
Published: October 2022

At a time when party politics is becoming increasingly personalised, conventional wisdom argues that the party leaders’ power in organisations is on the rise. However, scholarship has not yet provided a thorough and systematic analysis of the role of party leaders that offers theoretical and empirical specification. The aim of this article is to provide an analytical framework for the study of party leadership by examining the concept of leadership autonomy and its components. This new conceptualisation is then applied to a number of different parties across Western Europe, showing how leadership autonomy varies across countries and different party organisations. The conclusion sets out the implications for party change and highlights the importance of placing the leaders’ role at the centre of the empirical analysis of political parties.
Electromechanical study of graphene reinforced lead-free functionally graded tile for vibration energy harvesting
Authors: Adhikari Jitendra , Kumar Rajeev , Narain Vikas , Jain Satish Chandra
Published: October 2022

This study focuses on the electromechanical analysis of functionally graded graphene reinforced piezoelectric composite (FG-GRPC) structures in order to identify circuit metrics such as voltage and power. The graphene platelets (GPLs) scatter evenly and parallelly in each graphene platelets reinforced piezoelectric composite (GRPC) tile. The effective modulus of elasticity for the GRPC tile is calculated by the Halpin-Tsai (HT) parallel model. The rule of the mixture (ROM) is employed to estimate the effective mass density, poisson’s ratio, and piezoelectric properties of GRPC structure. A simple power law distribution is responsible for the spatial disparity in composition over the thickness to generate FG-GRPC structural tiles. The first-order shear deformation theory and Hamilton’s principle are used to derive the governing finite element equations for the FG-GRPC plates. The impact of external resistance, frequency, volume fraction, piezoelectric characteristics, and geometry of the tile on the circuit metrics of FG-GRPC structures are thoroughly examined. Our results reveal that the circuit metrics of FG-GRPC plates are significantly enhanced due to consideration of material grading exponent and a small quantity of GPLs. This article will provide the necessary physical insights for modeling the electromechanical coupling in multipurpose piezoelectric materials, devices, and large-scale systems, allowing them to be used in industrial applications such as pressure sensors, miniature ultrasonic motors, fuel injectors, active controllers, and robotic systems.
Uncovering the Research Behaviors of Reporters: A Conceptual Framework for Information Literacy in Journalism
Authors: Boss Katherine E. , De Voe Kristina M. , Gilbert Stacy R. , Hernandez Carolina , Heuer Megan Blauvelt , Hines April , Knapp Jeffrey A. , Tokarz Rayla E. , Tucker Chiméne E. , Bisbee Kristina V.
Published: October 2022

The American news media is facing a crisis of public trust fueled, in part, by an epistemological disagreement of what constitutes quality news. Through a series of 50 interviews with journalism professionals and students, this research investigates how evidence-based journalism is created by gathering data on expert and novice research practices. Interviews were transcribed, coded, and analyzed through the lens of the ACRL Framework to provide the foundation for a journalism information literacy framework. This analysis can be used to inform library instruction and higher education journalism curricula and offers insights and greater transparency on the processes that underlie trustworthy news.
The effect of pore sizes on the elastic behaviour of open-porous cellular materials
Authors: Aney Shivangi , Rege Ameya
Published: October 2022

The influence of the pore structure characteristics in open-porous cellular materials on their macroscopic elastic behaviour is investigated by considering three important microstructural features viz. the relative density, the pore-size distribution, and the pore-wall thickness. To this end, a microstructure-informed modelling approach is presented, where all elements of the three-dimensional (3-d) pore structure can be controlled effectively. The results show that while density does dictate the mechanical properties of open-porous solids, the effects of the pore-wall thickness and the pore-size distribution are not negligible and must be considered while developing such materials, in particular those that exhibit a poly-disperse nature and require load-bearing capabilities under finite strains.