bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intelligent Feature Subset Selection with Machine Learning Based Detection and Mitigation of DDoS Attacks in 5G Environment
Authors: Nagesha A. G. , Mahesh G. , Gowrishankar
Published: February 2022

The fifth-generation (5G) technology is anticipated to permit connectivity to billions of devices, called the Internet of Things (IoT). The primary benefit of 5G is that it has maximum bandwidth and can drastically expand service beyond cell phones to standard internet service for conventionally fixed connectivity to homes, offices, factories, etc. But IoT devices will unavoidably be the primary target of diverse kinds of cyberattacks, notably distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks. Since the conventional DDoS mitigation techniques are ineffective for 5G networks, machine learning (ML) approaches find helpful to accomplish better security. With this motivation, this study resolves the network security issues posed by network devices in the 5G networks and mitigates the harmful effects of DDoS attacks. This paper presents a new pigeon-inspired optimization-based feature selection with optimal functional link neural network (FLNN), PIOFS-OFLNN model for mitigating DDoS attacks in the 5G environment. The proposed PIOFS-OFLNN model aims to detect DDoS attacks with the inclusion of feature selection and classification processes. The proposed PIOFS-OFLNN model incorporates different techniques such as pre-processing, feature selection, classification, and parameter tuning. In addition, the PIOFS algorithm is employed to choose an optimal subset of features from the pre-processed data. Besides, the OFLNN based classification model is applied to determine DDoS attacks where the Rat Swarm Optimizer (RSO) parameter tuning takes place to adjust the parameters involved in the FLNN model optimally. FLNN is a low computational interconnectivity higher cognitive neural network. There are still no hidden layers. FLNN’s input vector is operationally enlarged to produce non-linear remedies. More details can be accessed application of Nature-Inspired Method to Odia Written by hand Number system Recognition. To validate the improved DDoS detection performance of the proposed model, a benchmark dataset is used.
Research on Block Image Texture Retrieval Method Based on Depth Hash
Authors: Ding Jie , Zhao Guotao , Huang Jinyong
Published: February 2022

In order to improve the retrieval ability of super-resolution multi-space block images, a texture retrieval method of block images based on depth hash is proposed. A texture feature analysis model of super-resolution multi-dimensional partitioned images is constructed, which combines texture spatial structure mapping method to realize depth information fusion of partitioned images, adopts edge feature detection and texture sparse feature clustering to realize texture hierarchical structure feature decomposition of super-resolution multi-dimensional partitioned images, and adopts deep image parameter analysis method to construct pixel structure recombination model of multi-dimensional partitioned images. Multi-dimensional texture parameter structure analysis and information clustering are realized for the collected partitioned images in multi-dimensional space. According to the information clustering results, the texture retrieval and extraction of partitioned images are realized by using the deep hash fusion algorithm, and the information detection and feature recognition capabilities of partitioned images in multi-dimensional space are improved. Simulation results show that this method has higher precision and better feature resolution in texture retrieval of partitioned images in multidimensional space, which improves the texture retrieval and recognition ability of partitioned images.
Idempotent completion of extriangulated categories
Authors: Wang Li , Wei Jiaqun , Zhang Haicheng , Zhao Tiwei
Published: February 2022

Extriangulated categories were introduced by Nakaoka and Palu as a simultaneous generalization of exact categories and triangulated categories. In this paper, we show that the idempotent completion of an extriangulated category admits a natural extriangulated structure. As an application, we prove that the idempotent completion of a recollement of extriangulated categories is still a recollement.
Retracted on May 31, 2024:
Managing Heterogeneous and Time-Sensitive IoT Applications through Collaborative and Energy-Aware Resource Allocation
Authors: Xavier Tiago C. S. , Delicato Flavia C. , Pires Paulo F. , Amorim Claudio L. , Li Wei , Zomaya Albert
Published: February 2022

In the Internet of Things (IoT) environment, the computing resources available in the cloud are often unable to meet the latency constraints of time critical applications due to the large distance between the cloud and data sources (IoT devices). The adoption of edge computing can help the cloud deliver services that meet time critical application requirements. However, it is challenging to meet the IoT application demands while using the resources smartly to reduce energy consumption at the edge of the network. In this context, we propose a fully distributed resource allocation algorithm for the IoT-edge-cloud environment, which (i) increases the infrastructure resource usage by promoting the collaboration between edge nodes, (ii) supports the heterogeneity and generic requirements of applications, and (iii) reduces the application latency and increases the energy efficiency of the edge. We compare our algorithm with a non-collaborative vertical offloading and with a horizontal approach based on edge collaboration. Results of simulations showed that the proposed algorithm is able to reduce 49.95% of the IoT application request end-to-end latency, increase 95.35% of the edge node utilization, and enhance the energy efficiency in terms of the edge node power consumption by 92.63% in comparison to the best performances of vertical and collaboration approaches.
ATP-Independent Chaperones
Authors: Mitra Rishav , Wu Kevin , Lee Changhan , Bardwell James C.A.
Published: February 2022

The folding of proteins into their native structure is crucial for the functioning of all biological processes. Molecular chaperones are guardians of the proteome that assist in protein folding and prevent the accumulation of aberrant protein conformations that can lead to proteotoxicity. ATP-independent chaperones do not require ATP to regulate their functional cycle. Although these chaperones have been traditionally regarded as passive holdases that merely prevent aggregation, recent work has shown that they can directly affect the folding energy landscape by tuning their affinity to various folding states of the client. This review focuses on emerging paradigms in the mechanism of action of ATP-independent chaperones and on the various modes of regulating client binding and release.
Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Neurotransmitter Release
Authors: Rizo Josep
Published: February 2022

Major recent advances and previous data have led to a plausible model of how key proteins mediate neurotransmitter release. In this model, the soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor (NSF) attachment protein (SNAP) receptor (SNARE) proteins syntaxin-1, SNAP-25, and synaptobrevin form tight complexes that bring the membranes together and are crucial for membrane fusion. NSF and SNAPs disassemble SNARE complexes and ensure that fusion occurs through an exquisitely regulated pathway that starts with Munc18-1 bound to a closed conformation of syntaxin-1. Munc18-1 also binds to synaptobrevin, forming a template to assemble the SNARE complex when Munc13-1 opens syntaxin-1 while bridging the vesicle and plasma membranes. Synaptotagmin-1 and complexin bind to partially assembled SNARE complexes, likely stabilizing them and preventing fusion until Ca2+ binding to synaptotagmin-1 causes dissociation from the SNARE complex and induces interactions with phospholipids that help trigger release. Although fundamental questions remain about the mechanism of membrane fusion, these advances provide a framework to investigate the mechanisms underlying presynaptic plasticity.
The Legacy of Shareholder Value Capitalism
Authors: Fligstein Neil , Goldstein Adam
Published: February 2022

American society has now been living in the wake of shareholder value capitalism for four decades. The shareholder value movement began as an invasion of the market for corporate control by financially oriented investors who critiqued sitting managers as not paying sufficient attention to the interests of shareholders during the economic crisis of the 1970s. It altered the relationship between financial markets and the managers of publicly held corporations. Subsequently, publicly held corporations have worked to raise share prices any way they can. While managers initially resisted shareholder value initiatives, they came to embrace them when their pay became tied to the share price. This created an incentive to discover new forms of financial extraction whenever a given set of strategies stopped producing new gains. We consider the impact that these reorganizations had on inequality and the relationship between shareholder value capitalism and financialization. We end by discussing the continuing relevance of shareholder value for understanding contemporary American capitalism. We also identify several avenues for future research on the evolution and consequences of shareholder value in the twenty-first century.
Review—Recent Advances in Metal Organic Framework Derived Carbon Materials for Electrocatalytic Applications
Authors: M. V. Varsha , Nageswaran Gomathi , Jothi Lavanya , A. Ravi Sankar
Published: February 2022

MOF derived porous carbon materials have emerged as a research hotspot in recent years due to its exceptional properties like high electrical conductivity, large specific surface area, presence of numerous accessible active sites, high porosity etc. which endows them with diverse applications. The unique properties associated with derived material are inherited from the precursor MOF and the provision of in situ heteroatom doping into the carbon structure further enhances its properties specific to diverse applications. In this review, we discuss the recent advancements in MOF derived carbon focusing on its properties and electrocatalytic applications. In the first part, an overview of the unique properties, methods to regulate the morphology and composition, and the structure of MOF derived carbon materials are discussed. Then, the application of MOF derived carbon as a promising electrode material for electrochemical sensing as well as electrocatalytic process focusing on OER and HER are explained in detail. Furthermore, the challenges that need to be addressed and future aspects of MOF derived carbon research are presented.
Processing Micro-Alloyed Mg-La Binary Alloy into a High-Performance Mg-Air Battery Anode via Extrusion
Authors: Song Yan , Yao Ke , Zou Qin , Yang Qin , Jiang Bin , Wang Lude , Yuan Ming , Wang Qinghang , Huang Guangsheng , Pan Fusheng
Published: February 2022

Micro-alloyed Mg-0.4 (wt.%) La alloy is recommended for Mg-air battery anode material. Two Mg-La anodes with different microstructures, i.e., as-cast and extruded, are fabricated by casting and extrusion technology. The effect of morphologies on discharge of Mg-La alloys is studied and examined by anodic self-discharge behavior and discharge performance. The extruded Mg-La anode releases less hydrogen during the discharge and shows limited chunk effect than the as-cast anode. Anodic efficiency is enhanced consequently, reaching 77.3% at 10 mA cm–2. This alloy enhances the discharge property of Mg-air battery and enables cell with higher voltage and energy density, compared with the as-cast alloy and re-cast Mg.
Effects of Nano-Micro Hierarchical Architecture Intraparticle Connectivity and Carbon Black-LiNi1/3Mn1/3Co1/3O2 Interaction: An Energy-Power Tradeoff In Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Peddi Mahender , Moodakare Sahana B. , Kamaraj M , Sundararajan G , Raghavan Gopalan
Published: February 2022

The performance of lithium-ion batteries depends on the morphology and distribution of components in the electrode. LiNi1−x−y
Mn
x
Co
y
O2 (NMC) with nano-micro hierarchical structure is a commercially important cathode material for electric vehicle application. The commonly used slurry preparation method is to dry-mix the active material with a conductive additive and then disperse it in the binder solution. The energy imparted during premixing, while helping in controlling the distribution of CB to establish conducting network, can deteriorate NMC by mechanically dismantling the aggregate structure. Herein, a comprehensive effort is put forward to understand dry-mixing by high-energy ball-milling. It is found that mixing-intensity influences the establishment of both long-range and short-range electronic conductive pathways.The sample mixed with very low intensity and high intensity exhibited a capacity of 68 mAh.g−1 and 20 mAh.g−1 respectively, while the sample with optimum mixing exhibited 100 mAh.g−1 at 5C. This study highlights the guidelines for preparing electrodes for high-energy and high-power applications. At low C-rates, the capacity depends on the integrity of the microstructure of NMC, while at high C-rate optimum short and long-range electronic conductivity is the deciding factor.
A Mechano-Electrochemical Battery Model that Accounts for Preferential Lithiation Inside Blended Silicon Graphite (Si/C) Anodes
Authors: Pereira Drew J. , Aleman Ashton M. , Weidner John W. , Garrick Taylor R.
Published: February 2022

Automotive manufacturers are currently working to produce commercially-viable electric trucks, driving the need to develop batteries that are higher in energy density and lower in cost. To realize this, cell designers have introduced blended silicon-graphite anodes to combine the high energy density of silicon with the stability and relatively lower mechanical degradation of graphite. As more blended anodes with high lithiation-based volume change are considered, the need to simultaneously account for mechanical and electrochemical phenomena increases. In this study, the focus is to learn how preferential lithiation (caused by differing equilibrium potentials and other intercalation kinetics of the two blended active materials) impact the coupled electrochemical performance and mechanical phenomenon at the electrode and cell scales. To do this, adaptations of previous modeling methods are proposed that treat the active materials as separate particles, representing the mixing of two active materials powders within a slurry. For comparison, the historically-used assumption is shown, where the blended active materials lithiate uniformly. The resulting simulations show that preferential lithiation of the blended materials will have a significant impact on both electrochemical and mechanical phenomena. Discussion is also provided with regard to C-rate, blended electrode composition, and other mechano-electrochemical behavior.
Effects of Ambient and Annealing Temperature in HfO2 Based RRAM Device Modeling and Circuit-Level Implementation
Authors: Napolean A. , Sivamangai N. M. , Rajesh S. , Naveenkumar R. , Sharon N. , Nithya N. , Kamalnath S.
Published: February 2022

This article focuses on the relevance of the effect of ambient temperature and annealing in the context of compact modeling of metal oxide resistive random access memory (RRAM) devices. The ambient temperature affects the conduction characteristic of resistive switching memories, so it becomes an essential factor to include when adjusting the experimental data. Reported the fabricated results and memory switching parameters with the defined set (Vset) and reset (Vreset) transition voltages for the fabricated annealed HfO2-based RRAM. Additionally, to illustrate the importance of this characteristic in the form of the I-V curve, the Stanford model (SFM) for RRAM devices is enhanced by incorporating the annealing temperature as an additional parameter in the script of the Verilog-A model. Stanford and modified Stanford model (MSFM) are analyzed at the device level using cadence circuit simulator and implemented in the nonvolatile memory circuit (3 *3 memory arrays). Results confirmed that the experimental switching voltages, Vset, Vreset are 1.7 V, −0.8 V. These values are well suited along the simulated MSFM switching voltages of, Vset, Vreset (1.8 V, −0.7 V). The mean error percentage of the MSF is 18.42%.
Trajectory Privacy Preserving for Continuous LBSs in VANET
Authors: Li Zhihong , Xing Xiaoshuang , Qian Jin , Li Hui , Sun Gaofei
Published: February 2022

Location-based services (LBSs) support various applications in vehicular ad hoc network (VANET). However, location/trajectory privacy becomes a serious concern for LBSs. Existing location/trajectory privacy-preserving schemes rarely take the attack model of adversaries into consideration, and the cost for achieving privacy has not been carefully studied. To deal with these problems, this study proposes a collaborative trajectory obfuscation scheme based on analyzing the attack model and designs a privacy-preserving efficiency metric that balances the achieved privacy and the cost. Through simulation, the effects of the density of vehicles using the same LBSs on the performance of our design and an existing scheme are investigated. The performance comparison results validate the effectiveness and efficiency of our scheme.
Multiobjective Fusion Decision Model for Key Technologies of Aircraft Intelligent Lightweight
Authors: Zhou Anliang , Dong Lei , Lang Yuedong , Cui Jiangping , Ren Wei , Liu Jiankang , Wang Zhiqiang
Published: February 2022

As a tool for aviation exploration, aircraft plays a pivotal role in the aerospace field. The aircraft’s lightweight can ensure that the aircraft can carry more loads, so it is of great significance to the research on the key technologies of aircraft lightweight. This paper organizes the intelligent technology system from the multiobjective fusion technology relationships and considers the complex changes between technology units. A technology group model for the intelligent technology system of spacecraft welding is formed to provide a decision-making basis for the realization of batch, stable, and efficient intelligent and lightweight manufacturing of spacecraft. We expand the technology development research from single technology research to technology system research. We research and build a three-dimensional perspective intelligent technology system based on technology unit, technology system, and technology group. It reveals the internal relationship description of technological development and expands and perfects the current research theory of technological development.
Identification of Potential Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Targets in Gliomas via Bioinformatic Analyses
Authors: Ding Mengmeng , Li Yong-an , Lu Zhimin , Hou Guoxin
Published: February 2022

Background. Glioma is a common tumor originating from the glial cells of the brain. Immune checkpoint inhibitors can potentially be used to treat gliomas, although no drug is currently approved. Methods. The expression levels of the immune checkpoint genes in glioma and normal tissues, and their correlation with the IDH mutation status and complete 1p/19q codeletion, were analyzed using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) databases. Survival analyses were conducted using the CGGA database. Protein‐protein interaction and functional enrichment analyses were performed via the STRING database using GO, KEGG, and Reactome pathways. The correlation between the immune checkpoints and the immune cell infiltration was determined using the TISIDB and TIMER databases. Results. HAVCR2 was overexpressed in the gliomas compared to normal brain tissues, as well as in the high‐grade glioma patients and significantly downregulated in IDH mutant or 1p/19q codeletion patients. Overexpression of HAVCR2 was associated with poor survival in tumor grades II, III, and IV and was the most correlated with immune infiltration of B and T cells. Conclusion. HAVCR2 can be a potential therapeutic target for cancer immunotherapy for glioma patients.
Soil Loss Assessment Using the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) Model
Authors: Luvai Allois , Obiero John , Omuto Christian
Published: February 2022

Many catchment areas have suffered from exhaustive changes because of various land use activities over the recent past. These land use changes are associated with intensified environmental degradation witnessed in catchment areas. Such environmental problems include extreme soil erosion. Soil erosion is one of the most critical problems responsible for the degradation of land worldwide. This phenomenon occurs as a result of the complex interactions that exist between natural and human-induced factors. Most factors experience spatiotemporal variations, hence complicating the soil erosion phenomenon. This complexity in the erosion process makes it difficult to quantify soil loss. Without proper information on soil loss, it becomes quite hard for decision-makers and managers to manage catchment areas. However, the availability of soil erosion models has made it easy to estimate soil loss. Many models have been developed to consider these complexities in soil erosion studies. Empirical models such as RUSLE provide a simple and broad methodology through which soil erosion is assessed. The RUSLE model integrates well geographic information system (GIS) and above all remote sensing. This paper presents an overview of the developmental milestones in estimating soil loss using the RUSLE model. The parameterization of the RUSLE model has been adequately reviewed with much emphasis on challenges and successes in derivation of each individual factor. From the review, it was established that different equations have been developed by researchers for modeling the five factors for the RUSLE model. The development of such equations was found to take into account the different variations that depict the soil erosion process.
Investigations on Brain Tumor Classification Using Hybrid Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Rinesh S. , Maheswari K. , Arthi B. , Sherubha P. , Vijay A. , Sridhar S. , Rajendran T. , Waji Yosef Asrat
Published: February 2022

The imaging modalities are used to view other organs and analyze different tissues in the body. In such imaging modalities, a new and developing imaging technique is hyperspectral imaging. This multicolour representation of tissues helps us to better understand the issues compared to the previous image models. This research aims to analyze the tumor localization in the brain by performing different operations on hyperspectral images. The tumor is located using the combination of k-based clustering processes like k-nearest neighbour and k-means clustering. The value of k in both methods is determined using the optimization process called the firefly algorithm. The optimization processes reduce the manual calculation for finding K’s optimal value to segment the brain regions. The labelling of the areas of the brain is done using the multilayer feedforward neural network. The proposed technique produced better results than the existing methods like hybrid k-means clustering and parallel k-means clustering by having a higher peak signal-to-noise ratio and a lesser mean absolute error value. The proposed model achieved 96.47% accuracy, 96.32% sensitivity, and 98.24% specificity, which are improved compared to other techniques.
Rapid Determination of Gross Alpha/Beta Activity in Water Based on Reverse Osmosis Membrane Enrichment Pretreatment
Authors: Zhang Ruiqi , Wang Jianye , Zhao Nanjing , Huang Xuyun
Published: February 2022

Radioactivity of gross alpha/beta is an index of water quality detection, which can reflect the radioactivity intensity of water. However, the traditional detection method of these parameters, thick source method, has problems of cumbersome and time consumption in sample preparation and cannot realize the rapid detection on-site. Based on this, this paper studies the enrichment method based on reverse osmosis membrane to accurately and quickly determine the gross α and gross β in water by using the reverse osmosis membrane as the carrier and enriching the radionuclides in water to the high-pressure side of the reverse osmosis membrane to replace the sample preparation process in traditional thick source method, so as to shorten the sample processing time in the detection process and avoid the cumbersome sample preparation process. The reverse osmosis membrane enrichment method for the determination of gross in 241Am and 40KCl standard solutions was used to study gross alpha/beta radioactivity, and the results showed that the average recoveries of radioactivity of gross alpha/beta were 95.0% and 93.6%, respectively. At the same time, the results of the thick source method and the reverse osmosis membrane method on the gross alpha/beta of actual water samples in 5 different regions were compared. It showed that the thick source method and the reverse osmosis membrane method had a good consistency in the detection results of total α and total β radioactivity, and the reverse osmosis membrane method had better stability than the thick source method. The average relative standard deviations (RSD) of the gross alpha and gross beta activity obtained by the thick source method are 11.9% and 7.3%, respectively, while RSD of the gross alpha and gross beta radioactivity obtained by the reverse osmosis membrane method were 6.9% and 4.7%, respectively. The preparation time of single sample was reduced by 75.7%, and the overall detection cycle time was reduced by 68.1%.
Strong Convergence Theorem for Finding a Common Solution of Convex Minimization and Fixed Point Problems in CAT(0) Spaces
Authors: Ndlovu P. V. , Jolaoso L. O. , Aphane Maggie
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we introduce a proximal point algorithm for approximating a common solution of finite family of convex minimization problems and fixed point problems fork-demicontractive mappings in complete CAT(0) spaces. We prove a strong convergence result and obtain other consequence results which generalize and extend some recent results in the literature. We further provide a numerical example to illustrate the convergence behaviour of the sequence generated by our algorithm.
Effect of Presence versus Absence of Hypertension on Admission Heart Rate-Associated Cardiovascular Risk in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Xia Yihua , Wang Zhijian , Gao Fei , Yang Lixia , Liang Jing , Shi Dongmei , Zhou Yujie , Ma Xiaoteng
Published: February 2022

Background and Aims. Heart rate (HR) and hypertension are both important risk factors for adverse cardiovascular (CV) events in patients with established coronary artery disease (CAD). We sought to evaluate whether hypertension can modify the effect of admission HR on adverse CV events in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Methods. A total of 1056 patients with ACS undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) were analyzed. All patients were classified into three groups according to the tertiles of admission HR (T1: ≤66 bpm, n = 369; T2: 67–73 bpm, n = 322; and T3: ≥74 bpm, n = 365). The primary endpoint was defined as major adverse CV events (MACEs), including all-cause death, stroke, myocardial infarction, or unplanned repeat revascularization. The multivariate Cox regression model was performed to evaluate the association of admission HR with MACE stratified by hypertension. Results. During the median follow-up of 30 months, a total of 232 patients developed at least one event. After adjusting for other covariates, elevated admission HR was significantly associated with an increased risk of MACE only in patients with hypertension (when T1 was taken as a reference, the adjusted HR of T2 was 1.143 [95% CI: 0.700–1.864] and that of T3 was 2.062 [95% CI: 1.300–3.270]); however, in patients without hypertension, admission HR was not associated with the risk of MACE (when T1 was taken as a reference, the adjusted HR of T2 was 0.744 [0.406–1.364] and that of T3 was 0.614 [0.342–1.101]) (

P
=
0.025

for interaction). Conclusions. In patients with ACS undergoing PCI, the association of elevated admission HR with an increased risk of MACE was present in individuals with hypertension but not in those without hypertension. This finding suggests a potential benefit of HR control for ACS patients when they concomitantly have hypertension.
Orientable Group Distance Magic Labeling of Directed Graphs
Authors: Ashraf Wasim , Shaker Hani , Imran Muhammad
Published: February 2022

A directed graph

G

is said to have the orientable group distance magic labeling if there exists an abelian group

ℋ

and one-one map

ℓ

from the vertex set of

G

to the group elements, such that

∑

y
∈

N
G
+

x

ℓ
⟶

y

−

∑

y
∈

N
G
−

x

ℓ
⟶

y

=
μ

for all

x
∈
V

, where

N

G

x

is the open neighborhood of

x

, and

μ
∈
ℋ

is the magic constant; more specifically, such graph is called orientable

ℋ

-distance magic graph. In this study, we prove directed antiprism graphs are orientable

ℤ

2
n

,

ℤ

2

×

ℤ

n

, and

ℤ

3

×

ℤ

6
m

-distance magic graphs. This study also concludes the orientable group distance magic labeling of direct product of the said directed graphs.
A Case of Postoperative Recurrent Lumbar Disc Herniation Conservatively Treated with Novel Intradiscal Condoliase Injection
Authors: Funayama Toru , Setojima Yusuke , Shibao Yosuke , Noguchi Hiroshi , Miura Kousei , Eto Fumihiko , Sato Kosuke , Kono Mamoru , Asada Tomoyuki , Takahashi Hiroshi , Tatsumura Masaki , Koda Masao , Yamazaki Masashi
Published: February 2022

Although postoperative recurrent lumbar disc herniation (rec-LDH) is uncommon, it is a challenging situation that requires revision surgery when conservative treatment fails. Recently, an agent inducing chemical dissolution of the nucleus pulposus using condoliase has been approved as a novel intradiscal treatment for LDH. To date, no evidence has been reported regarding its effectiveness in the treatment of postoperative rec-LDH. A 25-year-old man with a history of LDH in L4/5, who underwent transforaminal full endoscopic lumbar discectomy when he was 17 years old, complained of severe pain radiating to his left leg since 1 month. The straight leg-raising test was limited to 25° on the left side. Lumbar T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed intracanal, left-sided transligamentous disc herniation at L4/5 with high-signal intensity. Because the conservative treatment with oral analgesics and selective left L5 nerve root block failed, the patient requested intradiscal condoliase injection instead of revision surgery. There were no adverse events reported after the condoliase treatment, and the pain radiating to the left leg improved within 2 weeks. A lumbar MRI performed 2 months after treatment revealed that the disc herniation had significantly decreased in size. The straight leg-raising test examined 3 months after treatment was negative. In this case, the disc herniation was of the transligamentous type and showed a high-signal intensity on T2-weighted MRI which could be suitably treated by condoliase injection therapy. This case report is the first to suggest that intradiscal condoliase injection could be a useful and novel conservative treatment option to treat postoperative rec-LDH.
An Effective Credit Evaluation Mechanism with Softmax Regression and Blockchain in Power IoT
Authors: Li Da , Wang Dong , Jiang Wei , Guo Qinglei , Bai Desheng , Shi Wei , Ruan Linna
Published: February 2022

This paper is oriented to the credit investigation scenario of power grid supply chain enterprises and proposes a blockchain user credit assessment method based on improved Softmax regression in Power IoT. This method first designs a credit-rating mechanism that meets industry characteristics based on business needs. Second, it proposes a user credit evaluation model based on the blockchain architecture. Finally, the improved Softmax regression algorithm is used to train the proposed credit evaluation model, which effectively solves the credit rating. The multiclassification problem has achieved the goal of categorizing the credit rating of the enterprise. The simulation results show that the credit evaluation mechanism proposed in this paper can accurately evaluate the multisource credit data that lacks trust foundation and effectively realize the credit rating of power grid material supply chain enterprises. The credit evaluation mechanism proposed for Power IoT in this paper could have high potential for entity identity authentication and rating for securing mobile video communications.
Blockchain-Based Land Registration System: A Conceptual Framework
Authors: Khalid Muhammad Irfan , Iqbal Jawaid , Alturki Ahmad , Hussain Saddam , Alabrah Amerah , Ullah Syed Sajid
Published: February 2022

Land registration authorities are frequently held accountable for the alleged mismanagement and manipulation of land records in various countries. Pakistan’s property records are especially vulnerable to falsification and corruption because of the country’s poverty. Different parties therefore claim varying degrees of authority over a specific piece of land. Given the fact that this data has been consolidated, it has become significantly more vulnerable to security threats. The goal of decentralized system research has been to increase the reliability of these systems. In order to fix the flaws of centralized systems, blockchain-based decentralized systems are currently in development. By using significant land record registration models as the basis for this research, we hope to create a proof-of-concept system or framework for future use. Pakistan’s land registration agency will benefit from our proposed conceptual framework. For the Pakistani government to implement a decentralized land record registry system, we propose a conceptual framework that outlines the essential components.
Boosting Chickpea Production by Optimizing Inter-Row and Intrarow Spacing at Central Highlands of Ethiopia
Authors: Gezahegn Almaz Meseret , Tafes Bizuwork , Eshetu Sisay
Published: February 2022

A field experiment was conducted to determine optimum inter-row and intrarow spacing for a higher and economic yield of different chickpea varieties during 2016–2017 cropping season at Debre Zeit and Minjar. The experiment was carried out in a split-plot design replicated three times. The two varieties (Habru and Arerti) were assigned as a main plot and factorial of three inter-row spacing (20 cm, 30 cm, and 40 cm) and three intrarow spacing (5, 10, and 15 cm) as subplot treatments. The result indicated that variety and inter-row and intrarow spacing had a significant effect on yield and yield components of chickpea at both locations. Habru variety gave higher seed and biomass yield than Arerti. The highest seed and biomass yield were recorded for the intrarow and inter-row spacing range of 5–15 × 30–40 cm, respectively. Results of the partial budget analysis showed that the highest net benefit with acceptable marginal rate of return (>100%) was obtained from 10 cm × 30 cm intrarow and inter-row spacing. Therefore, 10 cm × 30 cm intrarow and inter-row spacing (330, 000 plants ha−1) can be recommended for a higher and economically optimum yield of chickpea at central highlands of Ethiopia.
[Retracted] Implementing the Hybrid Neuro‐Fuzzy System to Model Specific Learning Disability in Special University Education Programs
Authors: Wending Lin
Published: February 2022

Learning difficulty is a significant issue that comprehensively needs to be taken care of by university instructors with a focus on altering their ways of educating students since various degrees of learning difficulty could be observed among students. Hence, proper approaches should be adapted and utilized that provide chances for each student, securing his/her educational right. By doing so, it guarantees that each student has a right of learning with a different pace of conducting it. For example, the same educational and teaching materials cannot be adapted to each student. Hence, the training of students with learning difficulty should follow a model that is characterized as “from bottom to top,” namely, “normal to learning with difficulties.” The characterization of this approach is very similar to that of the treatment of human beings: biological malfunctions by medicine and mechanical malfunctions by psycho‐sociology. This paper proposes a diagnostic model to determine the cognitive ability of students who deal with learning disabilities. The computerized model is proposed based on a combination of fuzzy logic and machine learning utilizing association rules and cellular automata. The advantage of the proposed method is that it helps find the needs of these types of students, so the widely implemented practices that shape his/her learning behavior are avoided. Therefore, practical recognition of each student with a different pace of learning should be realized.
Systematic Review of the Efficacy and Safety of Shuxuening Injection in the Treatment of Unstable Angina
Authors: Fan Genhao , Liu Menglin , Liu Jia , Chen Xixi , Huang Yuhong
Published: February 2022

The aim of this study was to systematically review the efficacy and safety of Shuxuening injection combined with conventional Western medicine in the treatment of unstable angina. Randomized controlled trials of Shuxuening injection combined with conventional Western medicine in the treatment of unstable angina were searched by the computer system from PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, VIP, CNKI, Wanfang Database, and Chinese Biomedical Database since the establishment of the database until June 2020, according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria for the selection of literature, using Rev Man5.3 Meta-analysis Software. The 28 randomized controlled trials were included, with a total of 3,127 patients. Meta-analysis results showed that Shuxuening injection combined with conventional western medicine was effective in improving the clinical efficacy of angina pectoris (RR = 1.23, 95% CI [1.19, 1.27], P<0.00001), improvement of ECG (RR = 1.31, 95% CI [1.23, 1.40], P < 0.00001), reduction of angina pectoris attack frequency (MD = −1.28, 95% CI [−1.88, -0.67], P < 0.0001), duration of angina (MD = −3.36, 95% CI [−3.69, −3.03], P < 0.00001), nitroglycerin dosage (MD = -0.39, 95% CI [−0.65, −0.13], P = 0.003), C-reactive protein (MD = −2.72, 95% CI [−3.41, −2.03], P < 0.00001), BNP (MD = −23.33, 95% CI [−27.87, −18.79], P < 0.00001), lower triglycerides (MD = −0.72, 95% CI [−1.05, −0.38], P < 0.0001), total cholesterol (MD = −1.39, 95% CI [−1.84, −0.94], P < 0.00001), and LDL cholesterol (MD = -1.20, 95% CI [−2.12, −0.29], P = 0.01) which is better than that of control group. The effect on raising HDL cholesterol was comparable between the two groups (MD = 0.49, 95% CI [−0.06, 1.04], P = 0.08) and the incidence of adverse reactions to differences had no statistical significance (RR = 0.99, 95% CI [0.54, 1.81], P = 0.97). The Shuxuening injection combined with conventional Western medicine in the treatment of unstable angina has clear efficacy and a certain degree of safety, so it is recommended for clinical application.
CircTRRAP Knockdown Has Cardioprotective Function in Cardiomyocytes via the Signal Regulation of miR-370-3p/PAWR Axis
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Li Zhenggong , Wang Jiao , Chen Hao , He Rui , Wu Hongkun
Published: February 2022

Background. Circular RNA Transformation/Transcription Domain Associated Protein (circTRRAP, hsa_circ_0081241) was abnormally upregulated in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients. However, its biological role and functional mechanism in AMI remain to be researched. Methods. Human cardiomyocyte AC16 was exposed to hypoxia to induce cell injury. Cell viability was detected through Cell Counting Kit-8. CircTRRAP, microRNA-370-3p (miR-370-3p), and Pro-Apoptotic WT1 Regulator (PAWR) levels were assayed by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Cell proliferation analysis was performed via 5-ethynyl-2

′

-deoxyuridine (EdU) assay. Cell apoptosis was assessed using flow cytometry and caspase-3 activity assay. The protein levels were measured through western blot. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to examine the release of inflammatory cytokines. Oxidative stress was assessed by the commercial kits. Dual-luciferase reporter assay, RNA immunoprecipitation, and RNA pull-down assays were performed for the validation of target interaction. Results. CircTRRAP was highly expressed following hypoxia treatment in AC16 cells. Downregulation of circTRRAP promoted cell growth but inhibited apoptosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress in hypoxic cells. CircTRRAP could target miR-370-3p, and the regulatory effects of circTRRAP on the hypoxic cells were associated with the sponge function of miR-370-3p. PAWR served as the target for miR-370-3p, and it was regulated by circTRRAP/miR-370-3p axis. The protective role of miR-370-3p was achieved by downregulating the PAWR expression in hypoxia-treated AC16 cells. Conclusion. These findings demonstrated that silence of circTRRAP exerted the protection against the hypoxia-induced damages in cardiomyocytes through regulating the miR-370-3p and PAWR levels.
Waste-Tire-Derived Activated Carbon as Efficient Adsorbent of P-Nitrophenol from Wastewater
Authors: Hu Chunhua , Hu Suliu , Fang Ping , Tang Zijun , Xiao Xiang , Wu Haiwen
Published: February 2022

In this work, a two-stage activation method was used to prepare adsorbents from scrap tire rubber. Firstly, KOH was mixed with rubber using different impregnation ratios (1–2) for primary activation; a second activation was performed after pyrolysis at 650°C and 750°C; and finally, the samples were acid-washed using HNO3. The prepared materials were characterized by elemental analysis, nitrogen adsorption isotherms, SEM, FTIR, and XPS. The adsorption capacity and mechanism of these materials on p-nitrophenol in wastewater were also investigated. It was found that after two-stage activation, the specific surface area of the materials can be effectively increased, and the surface of the materials can be enriched with oxygen-containing functional groups. The maximum adsorption capacity of PNP could reach 143.9 mg g−1, which is slightly higher than the literature data under the same conditions. The adsorption process is in the form of chemisorption and is dominated by hydrogen bonding and π-πEDA formation, but the adsorption tends to be monolayer, and the adsorption behavior can be described by a proposed secondary model. In addition, the adsorbent has a stronger adsorption capacity under acidic conditions.
Extravascular Dispersion of Polyvinyl Alcohol Microsphere Particles in Uterine Artery Embolization
Authors: Torres-de la Roche L. A. , Cezar C. , Hanif S. , Devassy R. , Krentel H. , Hennefründ J. , De Wilde R. L.
Published: February 2022

Uterine artery embolization (UAE) is a common minimally invasive treatment of different uterine pathologies, such as fibroids, adenomyosis, and menorrhagia. The procedure involves the injection of embolic agents into the uterine arteries, whereby various particles can be used, such as polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). Complication of UAE is the dispersion of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) microsphere particles in the uterine body which can lead to a granular vaginal discharge. We report the management of complications of PVA microspheres dispersed from the uterine body causing postprocedural discomfort due to the vaginal passage of microspheres or because of an induced fibroid‐size enlargement. The dispersion of the PVA microspheres is one example of a minor UAE complication, which nevertheless causes significant distress to the patient and eventfully requires further surgical interventions.
Toxicological Evaluation of Camellia euphlebia Leaves Aqueous Extract Using Acute and Subacute Toxicity Studies in Mice and Genotoxicity Studies
Authors: He Dongye , Xu Yongping
Published: February 2022

Camelliaeuphlebia is a novel food source and Chinese folk medicine with multiple pharmacological properties. Our previous exploration has demonstrated the antidepressant-like activity of Camellia euphlebia leaves aqueous extract by reliable animal models of depression; however, a lack of toxicological information limits its pharmacological application. The present study aimed to evaluate the preliminary safety of C. euphlebia extract by determining acute/subacute toxicity in mice and in vivo/in vitro genotoxicity. The oral-medium lethal dose of the extract in mice was found to be higher than 5000 mg/kg body weight in the acute toxicity study. In a 14-days subacute toxicity study, C. euphlebia extract at doses of 400, 800, and 1600 mg/kg did not result in significant changes in food intake, water intake, body weight, relative organ weight, aspartate aminotransferase activity, alanine aminotransferase activity, creatinine level, and number of white blood cells and red blood cells. However, histopathology observation of organs taken from all mice showed that 1600 mg/kg extract caused slight hydropic degeneration in the cytoplasm of hepatocytes. In a 28-days subacute toxicity study, 600 mg/kg extract significantly increased the level of red blood cells but produced no negative side effects on other pathological parameters. Mice treated with the extract at doses of 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg for 28 days did not manifest any histopathological alterations of the liver, kidney, and spleen. Additionally, the extract showed no chromosomal aberrations in the in vivo micronucleus test and in vitro chromosomal aberration test. The results revealed that the extract showed no significant toxic effects and no potential genotoxicity but with the likelihood of transient erythrocytosis and slight hepatotoxicity. Further chronic toxicological evaluation involved in more physiological parameters, especially associated with liver toxicity and erythropoietin level, would be needed to determine its safety and application value.
Numerical and Theoretical Investigation to Estimate Darcy Friction Factor in Water Network Problem Based on Modified Chun-Hui He’s Algorithm and Applications
Authors: Khan Waseem Asghar , Arif Muhammad , Mohammed Mogtaba , Farooq Umer , Farooq Fozia Bashir , Elbashir Murtada K. , Rahman Jamshaid Ul , AlHussain Ziyad Ali
Published: February 2022

In this work, we applied the modified Chun-Hui He’s algorithm to evaluate for estimation of flow friction factor

f

for value of friction factor by using Colebrook–White relation. The speedy, precise, and consistent evaluation of flow friction factor

f

are essential for evaluation of pressure dips and streams in complex network prototypes at distinct values of diameters of pipes. Friction factor estimated outcomes are applied in everyday engineering routine. Numerous computational systems tested for distinguishing of water pipe networks resolution, such as Hardy Cross method (HCM), Newton method (NM), and modified Newton method (MNM), are presented. As a novelty, a modified Newton method tabulated data, graphical results, and comparisons that are presented with different numerical schemes.