bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical and technical factors associated with knee radiofrequency ablation outcomes: a multicenter analysis
Authors: Chen Yian , Vu To-Nhu H , Chinchilli Vernon M , Farrag Mohamed , Roybal Alexandra R , Huh Albert , Cohen Zared O , Becker Adam B , Arvanaghi Babak , Agrawal Mrinal , Ogden Jacob , Cohen Steven P
Published: February 2021

Background

There has been a surge in interest in radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of the genicular nerves over the past decade, with wide variability in selection, technique and outcomes. The aim of this study is to determine factors associated with treatment outcome.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated the effect of 23 demographic, clinical and technical variables on outcomes in 265 patients who underwent genicular nerve RFA for knee pain at 2 civilian and 1 military hospital. A primary outcome was designated as a>30% decrease in average knee pain score lasting at least 3 months without cointerventions.

Results

The overall rate of a positive response was 61.1% (95% CI 55.2% to 67.0%). In univariable analysis, larger electrode size (p=0.01), repeated lesions (p=0.02), having>80% pain relief during the prognostic block (p=0.02), not being on opioids (p=0.04), having no coexisting psychiatric condition (p=0.02), having a lower baseline pain score (p=0.01) and having >3 nerves targeted (p=0.02) were associated with a positive outcome. In multivariate logistic analysis, being obese (OR 3.68, 95% CI 1.66 to 8.19, p=0.001), not using opioids (OR 0.35, 95% CI 0.16 to 0.77, p=0.009), not being depressed (OR 0.29, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.82, p=0.02), use of cooled RFA (OR 3.88, 95% CI 1.63 to 9.23, p=0.002) and performing multiple lesions at each neural target (OR 15.88, 95% CI 4.24 to 59.50, p<0.001) were associated with positive outcome.

Conclusions

We identified multiple clinical and technical factors associated with treatment outcome, which should be considered when selecting patients for RFA treatment and in the design of clinical trials.
Dark matter models for the 511 keV galactic line predict keV electron recoils on Earth
Authors: Ema Yohei , Sala Filippo , Sato Ryosuke
Published: February 2021

We propose models of Dark Matter that account for the 511 keV photon emission from the Galactic Centre, compatibly with experimental constraints and theoretical consistency, and where the relic abundance is achieved via p-wave annihilations or, in inelastic models, via co-annihilations. Due to the Dark Matter component that is inevitably upscattered by the Sun, these models generically predict keV electron recoils at detectors on Earth, and could naturally explain the excess recently reported by the XENON1T collaboration. The very small number of free parameters make these ideas testable by detectors like XENONnT and Panda-X, by accelerators like NA64 and LDMX, and by cosmological surveys like the Simons observatory and CMB-S4. As a byproduct of our study, we recast NA64 limits on invisibly decaying dark photons to other particles.
A proposal to measure Belinfante’s curl of the spin optical force based on the Kerker conditions
Authors: Marqués Manuel I. , Edelstein Shulamit , Serena Pedro A.
Published: February 2021

The linear momentum of electromagnetic radiation is proportional to the Poynting vector. However, when light interacts with a dipole, the radiation pressure generated is no longer proportional to the Poynting vector: the so-called Belinfante’s momentum or equivalently, the curl of the spin density of the light field, must be considered. In this paper, we propose an optical configuration, based on two evanescent counter-propagating waves, perpendicularly polarized, capable of detecting Belinfante’s mechanical action. The two beams interact with a high-refractive-index particle like silicon. The direction of the radiation pressure exerted on the particle, proportional only to the curl of the spin density, depends on the electric and magnetic response of the particle and changes sign at the radiation wavelengths corresponding with the Kerker conditions.
Totally biharmonic hypersurfaces in space forms and 3-dimensional BCV spaces
Authors: Montaldo S. , Pámpano A.
Published: February 2021

A hypersurface is said to be totally biharmonic if all its geodesics are biharmonic curves in the ambient space. We prove that a totally biharmonic hypersurface into a space form is an isoparametric biharmonic hypersurface, which allows us to give the full classification of totally biharmonic hypersurfaces in these spaces.

Moreover, restricting ourselves to the 3-dimensional case, we show that totally biharmonic surfaces into Bianchi–Cartan–Vranceanu spaces are isoparametric surfaces and we give their full classification. In particular, we show that, leaving aside surfaces in the 3-dimensional sphere, the only nontrivial example of a totally biharmonic surface appears in the product space [Formula: see text].
The study of a half-spin relativistic particle in the presence of a uniform magnetic field in a Gödel-type space–time
Authors: Wang Bing-Qian , Wu Shu-Rui , Long Zheng-Wen
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we focus on the half-spin relativistic particle in the presence of a uniform magnetic field in a Gödel-type space–time with potential. Based on the functional analysis method, the allowed energies and wave equation of the system are derived. Moreover, in order to illustrate the influence of vorticity parameter on the considered system, we plot some figures for the clarity of our results.
Tenfold way for holography: AdS/CFT and beyond
Authors: Dobrev V. K.
Published: February 2021

The main purpose of this paper is to lay the foundations of generalizing the AdS/CFT (holography) idea beyond the conformal setting. The main tool is to find suitable realizations of the bulk and boundary via group theory. We use all ten families of classical real semisimple Lie groups [Formula: see text] and Lie algebras [Formula: see text]. For this are used several group and algebra decompositions: the global Iwasawa decomposition and the local Bruhat and Sekiguchi-like decompositions. The same analysis is applied to the exceptional real semisimple Lie algebras.
A new cohomology theory for strict Lie 2-algebras
Authors: Angulo Camilo
Published: February 2021

In this paper, we introduce a new cohomology theory associated to a strict Lie 2-algebra. This cohomology theory is shown to also extend the classical cohomology theory of Lie algebras; in particular, we show that the second cohomology group classifies an appropriate type of extension.
Prediction of Beyond Design and Residual Performances of Viscoelastic Dampers by a Simplified Fractional Derivative Model
Authors: Wang Shiang-Jung , Zhang Qun-Ying , Yu Chung-Han
Published: February 2021

When subjected to excessive shear deformation, viscoelastic (VE) dampers may inevitably suffer from damages, due to their VE material layers with limited thickness. Under the circumstance, their stiffness and energy dissipation capabilities may deteriorate but not totally vanish. To estimate the seismic performances of viscoelastically damped structures, the beyond design and residual performances of damaged VE dampers are crucial to protect structures from severe failure during the following main shock or aftershocks. On the other hand, for new viscoelastically damped structures under the normal design earthquakes, neglecting the residual performance of damaged VE dampers may result in nonconservative design. Thus, this study aims to provide approaches to analytically characterize the beyond design and residual performances of damaged full-scale VE dampers. Based on the simplified fractional derivative model, the analytical predictions have been compared with the experimental results. The proposed model works well for the design performance of the intact full-scale VE dampers. Particularly, it can also reproduce the beyond design and residual performances of damaged full-scale VE dampers, if due consideration is taken of the effects of excitation frequencies, ambient temperatures, temperature rises, softening, and hardening.
The complexity of specific commuting graphs
Authors: Chen X. Y. , Mahmoudifar A. , Moghaddamfar A. R. , Salehzadeh F.
Published: February 2021

In this paper, the commuting graphs associated with finite groups are discussed. As the main theme, the explicit formulas for the number of spanning trees of commuting graphs associated with some specific groups, such as the Suzuki simple groups, the projective special linear groups, and some certain AC-groups, are obtained.
On maps preserving square roots of idempotent and rank-one nilpotent matrices
Authors: Borisov Nikita , Julius Hayden , Sikora Martha
Published: February 2021

We characterize bijective linear maps on [Formula: see text] that preserve the square roots of an idempotent matrix (of any rank). Every such map can be presented as a direct sum of a map preserving involutions and a map preserving square-zero matrices. Next, we consider bijective linear maps that preserve the square roots of a rank-one nilpotent matrix. These maps do not have standard forms when compared to similar linear preserver problems.
Fitness-for-Service Assessment Approach for Ageing Pipeline Section Based on Sparse Historical Data
Authors: Naraghi Tahereh , Najib Mehdi F. , Nobari Ali S. , Nikbin Kamran
Published: February 2021

Fitness-for-service (FFS) assessment is a common evaluation methodology in oil and gas industries to assess the integrity of in-service structures that may contain flaws, metal thinning and pitting damage. However, given the level of unknowns or missing information in the industry deterministic predictions are unacceptable and invariably the lower bound values could also be substantially conservative. The aim of this work is to develop a generic process to ensure, within a level of confidence, the operational safety and integrity of aging gas or oil pipelines sections based on available data. Fitness for service procedure according to “API 579-1/ASME FFS-1” is performed using local metal loss and micro-cracking to predict a range of safe life for the ageing pipeline operated for around 40 years. The mean value predictions of the present assessment indicate that the flaws away from the weld are within an acceptable boundary which implies the pipes would be fit to continue in operation and at least have 10 years remaining life, whilst the flaws near the weld need to be repaired as soon as possible. This is based on the best average values for the NDE and material property results available. However, adopting extreme caution in the analysis will render the pipes obsolete and ready for replacement. Understanding the risks to be taken in such situations becomes an expert system decision based not just on the FFS analysis but on both quantitative historical data, loading history, material degradation due to environment, corrosion rates and metallurgical analysis in addition to qualitative experience collected from other databases and pipes failure data. Beyond such a procedure the safe option would be a full burst pressure testing of the length of pipeline in question to identify possible leaks of old pipes.
Electrical conductivity and vibrational studies induced phase transition in [N(C3H7)4]2ZnBr4 compound
Authors: Chkoundali Souad , Aydi Abdelhedi
Published: February 2021

Bis-Tetrapropylammonium tetrabromozincate was synthesized and characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, as well as vibrational and impedance spectroscopy. Rietveld’s refinement of X-ray diffractogram confirmed the crystallization of the compound through the monoclinic system (space group [Formula: see text]. A temperature study of Raman scattering revealed two phase transitions at approximately [Formula: see text] = 340 K and [Formula: see text] = 393 K. The wavenumber and the line width’s evolution as a function of temperature showed some peculiarities associated with these transitions, which suggests that they are governed by the reorientation of the organic part [N(C3[Formula: see text]][Formula: see text]. The complex impedance plotted as a double semicircular arc in the studied temperature range and the centers of these semicircles lie below the real axis, which indicates that the material is an on-Debye type. These semicircular arcs are related to the bulk and the grain boundary effects. Furthermore, the alternating current conductivity of [N(C3[Formula: see text]]2ZnBr4 obeyed Jonscher’s law: [Formula: see text] = [Formula: see text] and the conduction could be attributed to the correlated barrier hopping (CBH) model in both region(I) and (II) and the Non-overlapping Small Polaron Tunneling (NSPT) in region (III).
Virtual Reality (VR) Applications in Cardiology: A Review
Authors: Javaid Mohd , Khan Ibrahim Haleem
Published: February 2021

Virtual reality (VR) has applications in cardiology to create enhancement, thereby improving the quality of associated planning, treatment and surgery. The need is to study different applications of this technology in the field of cardiology. We have studied research papers on VR and its applications in cardiology through a detailed bibliometric analysis. The study identified five significant steps for proper implementation of this technology in cardiology. Some challenges are to be undertaken by using this technology, and they can provide some benefits; thus, authors contemplate extensive research and development. This study also identifies 10 major VR technology applications in cardiology and provided a brief description. This innovative technology helps a heart surgeon to perform complex heart surgery effectively. Thus, VR applications have the potential for improving decision-making, which helps save human life. VR plays a significant role in the development of a surgical procedure. This technology undertakes 3D heart model information in full colour, which helps to analyze the overall heart vane, blockage and blood flow. With the help of this digital technology, a surgeon can improve the accuracy of heart surgery, and he can simulate the surgery. A surgeon can undertake surgery in a virtual environment on a virtual patient. The unique purpose of this technology is to practice pre-operatively on the specific circumstance. A cardiologist can also check the proper status of inner and outer heart wall layer. Thus, by using this 3D information, the surgeon can now interact with heart data/information without any physical touch. This technology opens a new opportunity to improve the heart surgery and development in cardiovascular treatment to improve patient outcome.
A Spherical Joint Robotic End-Effector for the Expanded Endoscopic Endonasal Approach
Authors: Dimitrakakis Emmanouil , Dwyer George , Lindenroth Lukas , Giataganas Petros , Dorward Neil L. , Marcus Hani J. , Stoyanov Danail
Published: February 2021

The endonasal transsphenoidal approach allows surgeons to access the pituitary gland through the natural orifice of the nose. Recently, surgeons have also described an Expanded Endoscopic Endonasal Approach (EEEA) for the treatment of other tumours around the base of the brain. However, operating in this way with nonarticulated tools is technically very difficult and not widely adopted. The goal of this study is to develop an articulated end-effector for a novel handheld robotic tool for the EEEA. We present a design and implementation of a 3.6[Formula: see text]mm diameter, three degrees-of-freedom, tendon-driven robotic end-effector that, contrary to rigid instruments which operate under fulcrum, will give the surgeon the ability to reach areas on the surface of the brain that were previously inaccessible. We model the end-effector kinematics in simulation to study the theoretical workspace it can achieve prior to implementing a test-bench device to validate the efficacy of the end-effector. We find promising repeatability of the proposed robotic end-effector of 0.42[Formula: see text]mm with an effective workspace with limits of [Formula: see text], which is greater than conventional neurosurgical tools. Additionally, although the tool’s end-effector has a small enough diameter to operate through the narrow nasal access path and the constrained workspace of EEEA, it showcased promising structural integrity and was able to support approximately a 6N load, despite a large deflection angle the limiting of which is scope of future work. These preliminary results indicate the end-effector is a promising first step towards developing appropriate handheld robotic instrumentation to drive EEEA adoption.
The Impact of Fintechs on Financial Intermediation: A Functional Approach
Authors: Crouhy Michel , Galai Dan , Wiener Zvi
Published: February 2021

We analyze fintechs and their impact on the traditional financial system from a functional perspective. Following the approach suggested by Merton (1995) [A Functional Perspective of Financial Intermediation, Financial Management 24(2), 23–41], we show how the six core functions of financial intermediation are affected by the technological developments. This analysis provides a new perspective on the future of financial services and their regulation.
Nitrogen-Rich Precursors Assisted Synthesis of Metal-Organic Framework-Derived Nanostructures as Bifunctional Catalysts for Electrochemical Sensing and Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Zhang Wen , Chen Haodong , Li Xingxing , Qin Haiying , Chi Hongzhong , Yang Dongjing , Fu Degang
Published: February 2021

Exploring the structure and composition of catalysts to realize fast electron transfer in electrochemical reaction is a challenging part for the development of highly efficient electrocatalysts. Herein, nitrogen-doped carbon nanotube with encapsulated cobalt nanoparticles is synthesized via co-pyrolysis of zeolitic imidazolate framework and assisted nitrogen/carbon precursors with high N/C ratio. These precursor-dependent materials are served as catalysts for determination of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Electrochemical measurement results suggest a strong relationship between N-doped types and electrochemical performance. The as-proposed ZU catalyst (urea as N-rich precursor) exhibits optimal electrocatalytic performance towards ORR and H2O2 detection. Furthermore, ZU also can be a potential cathode candidate for direct borohydride fuel cell (DBFC).The synthesis strategy offers a new clue in constructing effective non-noble-metal catalysts for electrochemical applications.
Understanding the Selective Deposition of Li Metal on Nonuniform Electrode Surfaces Using Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Campbell Colin , Lee Yong Min , Cho Kuk Young , Lee Young-Gi , Hong Seungbum , Phatak Charudatta
Published: February 2021

The use of lithium metal in secondary batteries has been impeded by its tendency to form dendrites: branching conductive structures of metal that can lead to capacity loss and, ultimately, internal shorts in the battery. Patterned electrodes, in addition to artificially increasing the current density of cells by increasing the surface area available for reaction, also generate a nonuniform electric field in the vicinity of the electrode surface. This nonuniform electric field, though rapidly screened by the electrolyte, can promote inhomogeneous deposition and Solid Electrolyte Interphase formation. As the consequence of these effects is not theoretically apparent since Solid Electrolyte Interphase volume and conductivity changes can, in principle, offset variations in local current density, we have performed experiments to examine the deposition of Li on nonuniform electrode surfaces using Atomic Force Microscopy. We measure the local variations in topography, SEI thickness, and composition, and discuss their implications for the formation of dendrites in Li metal.
Bmal1 promotes prostaglandin E2 synthesis by upregulating Ptgs2 transcription in response to increasing estradiol levels in day 4 pregnant mice
Authors: Zhao Lijia , Yang Luda , Zhang Jing , Xiao Yaoyao , Wu Meina , Ma Tiantian , Wang Xiaoyu , Zhang Linlin , Jiang Haizhen , Chao Hsu-Wen , Wang Aihua , Jin Yaping , Chen Huatao
Published: February 2021

Rhythmic expression of Bmal1 and Ptgs2 was observed in the uterus isolated from D3.5–4.5 of pregnant mice. E2 increased the expression of Bmal1 and Ptg2 in UESCs isolated from mice on D4. The expression of Ptgs2 was significantly decreased in Bmal1-siRNA treated UESCs. Bmal1 knockdown also inhibited PGE2 synthesis. Thus, these data suggest that Bmal1 in mice promotes PGE2 synthesis by upregulating Ptgs2 in response to increases in E2 on D4 of pregnancy.
Shared aspects of mRNA expression associated with oocyte maturation failure in humans and rhesus monkeys indicating compromised oocyte quality
Authors: Ruebel Meghan L. , Zambelli Filippo , Schall Peter Z. , Barragan Montserrat , VandeVoort Catherine A. , Vassena Rita , Latham Keith E.
Published: February 2021

Oocyte maturation failure observed in assisted reproduction technology (ART) cycles can limit the number of quality oocytes obtained and present a pronounced barrier for some patients. The potential exists to use unmatured oocytes for ART through in vitro maturation. Understanding the molecular basis of oocyte maturation failure is pertinent to minimizing this loss of oocytes and considerations of whether such oocytes can be used safely for ART. We identified shared transcriptome abnormalities for rhesus monkey and human failed-to-mature (FTM) oocytes relative to healthy matured MII stage oocytes. We discovered that, although the number of shared affected genes was comparatively small, FTM oocytes in both species shared effects for several pathways and functions, including predicted activation of oxidative phosphorylation (OxPhos) with additional effects on mitochondrial function, lipid metabolism, transcription, nucleotide excision repair, endoplasmic reticulum stress, unfolded protein response, and cell viability. RICTOR emerged as a prominent upstream regulator with predicted inhibition across all analyses. Alterations in KDM5A, MTOR, MTORC1, INSR, CAB39L, and STK11 activities were implicated along with RICTOR in modulating mitochondrial activity and OxPhos. Defects in cell cycle progression were not a prominent feature of FTM oocytes. These results identify a common set of transcriptome abnormalities associated with oocyte maturation failure. While our results do not demonstrate causality, they indicate that fundamental aspects of cellular function are abnormal in FTM oocytes and raise significant concerns about the potential risks of using FTM oocytes for ART.
Operational Considerations regarding On-Demand Air Mobility: A Literature Review and Research Challenges
Authors: Sun Xiaoqian , Wandelt Sebastian , Husemann Michael , Stumpf Eike
Published: February 2021

The idea and development of on-demand air mobility (ODAM) services are revolutionizing our urban/regional transportation sector by exploring the third dimension: vertical airspace. The fundamental concept of on-demand air taxi operations is not new, but advances in aircraft design and battery/engine technology plus massive problems with congestion and increased travel demands around the world have recently led to a large number of studies which aim to explore the potential benefits of ODAM. Unfortunately, given the lack of an established, formal problem definition, missing reference nomenclature for ODAM research, and a multitude of publication venues, the research development is not focused and, thus, does not tap the full potential of the workforce engaged in this topic. This study synthesizes the recently published literature on operational aspects of ODAM. Our contribution consists of two major parts. The first part dissects previous studies and performs cross-comparison of report results. We cover five main categories: demand estimation methodology, infrastructure/port design/location problem, operational planning problem, operational constraints’ identification, and competitiveness with other transportation modes. The second part complements the report of aggregated findings by proposing a list of challenges as a future agenda for ODAM research. Most importantly, we see a need for a formal problem definition of ODAM operational planning processes, standard open datasets for comparing multiple performance dimensions, and a universal, multimodal transportation demand model.
Influence of Data Splitting on Performance of Machine Learning Models in Prediction of Shear Strength of Soil
Authors: Nguyen Quang Hung , Ly Hai-Bang , Ho Lanh Si , Al-Ansari Nadhir , Le Hiep Van , Tran Van Quan , Prakash Indra , Pham Binh Thai
Published: February 2021

The main objective of this study is to evaluate and compare the performance of different machine learning (ML) algorithms, namely, Artificial Neural Network (ANN), Extreme Learning Machine (ELM), and Boosting Trees (Boosted) algorithms, considering the influence of various training to testing ratios in predicting the soil shear strength, one of the most critical geotechnical engineering properties in civil engineering design and construction. For this aim, a database of 538 soil samples collected from the Long Phu 1 power plant project, Vietnam, was utilized to generate the datasets for the modeling process. Different ratios (i.e., 10/90, 20/80, 30/70, 40/60, 50/50, 60/40, 70/30, 80/20, and 90/10) were used to divide the datasets into the training and testing datasets for the performance assessment of models. Popular statistical indicators, such as Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE), Mean Absolute Error (MAE), and Correlation Coefficient (R), were employed to evaluate the predictive capability of the models under different training and testing ratios. Besides, Monte Carlo simulation was simultaneously carried out to evaluate the performance of the proposed models, taking into account the random sampling effect. The results showed that although all three ML models performed well, the ANN was the most accurate and statistically stable model after 1000 Monte Carlo simulations (Mean R = 0.9348) compared with other models such as Boosted (Mean R = 0.9192) and ELM (Mean R = 0.8703). Investigation on the performance of the models showed that the predictive capability of the ML models was greatly affected by the training/testing ratios, where the 70/30 one presented the best performance of the models. Concisely, the results presented herein showed an effective manner in selecting the appropriate ratios of datasets and the best ML model to predict the soil shear strength accurately, which would be helpful in the design and engineering phases of construction projects.
A Method for Constructing Supervised Time Topic Model Based on Variational Autoencoder
Authors: Gou Zhinan , Li Yan , Huo Zheng
Published: February 2021

Topic modeling is a probabilistic generation model to find the representative topic of a document and has been successfully applied to various document-related tasks in recent years. Especially in the supervised topic model and time topic model, many methods have achieved some success. The supervised topic model can learn topics from documents annotated with multiple labels and the time topic model can learn topics that evolve over time in a sequentially organized corpus. However, there are some documents with multiple labels and time-stamped in reality, which need to construct a supervised time topic model to achieve document-related tasks. There are few research papers on the supervised time topic model. To solve this problem, we propose a method for constructing a supervised time topic model. By analysing the generative process of the supervised topic model and time topic model, respectively, we introduce the construction process of the supervised time topic model based on variational autoencoder in detail and conduct preliminary experiments. Experimental results demonstrate that the supervised time topic model outperforms several state-of-the-art topic models.
Relationship between Motor Competence, Physical Fitness, and Academic Achievement in Young School‐Aged Children
Authors: Batez Maja , Milošević Živan , Mikulić Ivan , Sporiš Goran , Mačak Draženka , Trajković Nebojša
Published: February 2021

Children in schools are facing many academic challenges. Moreover, there is constant pressure on children and parents to maximize academic achievement. We aimed to determine the relationship between motor competence, physical fitness, and academic achievement in young school‐aged children. Participants were 130 elementary school children (mean ± SD8.60 ± 0.61 years; 51 boys and 79 girls) from Serbia. The KTK (Körperkoordinations Test für Kinder) battery of tests was used to assess the motor competence in children; children’ physical fitness was assessed using the EUROFIT battery of tests, while academic achievement was assessed based on the children’s GPA (grade point average) scores at the end of the school year. Pearson’s r showed the weak to moderate relationships between the GPA and motor competence and physical fitness measures. The GPA correlates positively and significantly with almost all motor competence and physical fitness measures, but negatively with BMI (p ≤ 0.05). However, the hierarchical linear regression indicated only the plate tapping and sit and reach as the significant predictors of the GPA. Although both tests positively affect the GPA, the plate tapping (B = −0.22, p = 0.02) tends to influence the GPA more than the sit and reach test (B = 0.18, p = 0.04) after adjusting for effects of motor competence (B = 0.19, p = 0.03), age (B = −0.01, p = 0.89), and BMI (B = −0.19, p = 0.03). This study provides evidence demonstrating that academic achievement is generally associated with physical fitness and motor competence in children. However, plate taping and sit and reach were accounted as the most important predictors for academic achievement.
[Retracted] Serum IL‐37 Level Is Associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Disease Activity: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Cao Shengnan , Shi Haojun , Sun Guodong , Chen Yuanzhen , Hou Guangjian , Wang Dandan , Shi Bin
Published: February 2021

Interleukin‐37 (IL‐37) inhibits the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) via downregulating proinflammatory cytokines. Accordingly, we performed an analysis to accurately assess the relationship between serum IL‐37 cytokine levels and disease activity of RA. Subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis were applied to explore the sources of heterogeneity. Correlation coefficient (r) was utilized to evaluate the relationship between IL‐37 and disease activity of RA patients. Ten studies were included into the research. Functional analysis revealed elevated serum IL‐37 concentrations in RA patients (SMD = 1.61, P < 0.00001). The relationship between serum IL‐37 levels and disease activity was statistically significant (C‐reactive protein: r = 1.47, P = 0.0002; erythrocyte sedimentation rate: r = 1.55, P < 0.00001; rheumatoid factor: r = 1.40, P = 0.004; tumor necrosis factor⁃α: r = 1.64, P = 0.0003; Disease Activity Score for 28 joints: r = 1.63, P < 0.00001; tender joint count: r = 1.48, P < 0.00001; and swollen joint count: r = 1.52, P = 0.0003), but anti‐CCP was not significant (anti‐CCP: r = 0.98, P = 0.72). In summary, these data are suggesting that the elevated serum level of IL‐37 in RA is positively correlated with the disease activity of RA, suggesting a role for IL‐37in the pathogenesis of RA.
Discovery of a Novel Long Noncoding RNA Lx8-SINE B2 as a Marker of Pluripotency
Authors: Chen Fuquan , Zhang Miao , Feng Xiao , Li Xiaomin , Sun Haotian , Lu Xinyi
Published: February 2021

Pluripotency and self-renewal of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) are marked by core transcription regulators such as Oct4, Sox2, and Nanog. Another important marker of pluripotency is the long noncoding RNA (lncRNA). Here, we ind that a novel long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) Lx8-SINE B2 is a marker of pluripotency. LncRNA Lx8-SINE B2 is enriched in ESCs and downregulated during ESC differentiation. By rapid amplification of cDNA ends, we identified the full-length sequence of lncRNA Lx8-SINE B2. We further showed that transposable elements at upstream of lncRNA Lx8-SINE B2 could drive the expression of lncRNA Lx8-SINE B2. Furthermore, ESC-specific expression of lncRNA Lx8-SINE B2 was driven by Oct4 and Sox2. In summary, we identified a novel marker lncRNA of ESCs, which is driven by core pluripotency regulators.
Classification of Lactate Level Using Resting-State EEG Measurements
Authors: Shaban Saad Abdulazeez , Ucan Osman Nuri , Duru Adil Deniz
Published: February 2021

The electroencephalography (EEG) signals have been used widely for studying the brain neural information dynamics and behaviors along with the developing impact of using the machine and deep learning techniques. This work proposes a system based on the fast Fourier transform (FFT) as a feature extraction method for the classification of human brain resting-state electroencephalography (EEG) recorded signals. In the proposed system, the FFT method is applied on the resting-state EEG recordings and the corresponding band powers were calculated. The extracted relative power features are supplied to the classification methods (classifiers) as an input for the classification purpose as a measure of human tiredness through predicting lactate enzyme level, high or low. To validate the suggested method, we used an EEG dataset which has been recorded from a group of elite-level athletes consisting of two classes: not tired, the EEG signals were recorded during the resting-state task before performing acute exercise and tired, the EEG signals were recorded in the resting-state after performing an acute exercise. The performance of three different classifiers was evaluated with two performance measures, accuracy and precision values. The accuracy was achieved above 98% by the K-nearest neighbor (KNN) classifier. The findings of this study indicated that the feature extraction scheme has the ability to classify the analyzed EEG signals accurately and predict the level of lactate enzyme high or low. Many studying fields, like the Internet of Things (IoT) and the brain computer interface (BCI), can utilize the findings of the proposed system in many crucial decision-making applications.
Model Predictive Current Control Strategy with Reduced Computation Burden
Authors: Yuan Jie , Wen Dingdou , Zhang Yang
Published: February 2021

In this paper, three model predictive current control (MPCC) schemes for permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSM) are studied. The first control scheme is the traditional optimal duty cycle model predictive current control (ODC-MPCC). In this scheme, according to the principle of minimizing the cost function, the optimal voltage vector is selected from the six basic voltage vectors which are optimized simultaneously with the duty, and then, the optimal voltage vector and its duty are applied to the inverter. In order to reduce the computational burden of ODC-MPCC, a second control scheme is proposed. This scheme optimizes the voltage vector control set, reducing the number of candidate voltage vectors from 6 to 2. Finally, according to the principle of minimizing the cost function, the optimal voltage vector is found from the two voltage vectors, and the optimal voltage vector and its duty cycle are applied to the inverter. In addition, in order to further improve the steady-state performance, another vector selection method is introduced. In the combination of voltage vectors, the third control scheme extends the combination of voltage vectors in the second control scheme. The simulation results show that the second control scheme not only reduces the computational burden of the first control scheme but also obtains steady-state performance and dynamic performance equivalent to the first control scheme. The third control scheme obtains better steady-state performance without significantly increasing the computational burden and has dynamic performance comparable to the first and second control schemes.
Clinical Evidence for the Effects of Manual Therapy on Cancer Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yao Chongjie , Cheng Yanbin , Zhu Qingguang , Lv Zhizhen , Kong Lingjun , Fang Min
Published: February 2021

Objective. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of manual therapy (MT) on cancer pain, so as to provide clinical evidence for application. Methods. Five English and Chinese databases were searched until February 29, 2020, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of MT for cancer pain. Articles published in the English or Chinese language were included. Two authors independently reviewed all articles and extracted the data, and any disagreements in the above process were discussed with other reviewers until the authors reached consensus. Review Manager 5.3 was used to calculate the effect size and 95% confidence intervals. This review was registered in PROSPERO, number CRD42020172053. Results. The intensity of cancer pain is our primary outcome measure, and compared with standard care, MT can significantly relieve the pain of patients with cancer (SMD, 0.63; 95% CI [0.18, 1.08];

P
=
0.006
<
0.01

); the effects of MT plus active activity were significantly different from AT alone (SMD, 0.79; 95% CI [0.28, 1.30];

P
=
0.002
<
0.01

); there was no statistical difference in the efficacy of MT and AT alone (SMD, -0.24; 95% CI [-1.09, 0.62];

P
=
0.53
>
0.05

). In other related symptoms, the above evidence cannot support that MT had a good effect on fatigue (SMD, 0.77; 95% CI [-0.09, 1.63];

P
=
0.08
>
0.05

), nausea (SMD, 0.24; 95% CI [-0.00, 0.48];

P
=
0.05

), anxiety (SMD, 0.76; 95 % CI [-0.32, 1.84];

P
=
0.17
>
0.05

), and depression (SMD, 0.67; 95 % CI [-0.28, 1.62];

P
=
0.17
>
0.05

); however, MT intervention can improve physical function (n = 271; SMD, 0.35; 95 % CI [-0.04, 0.74];

P
=
0.04
<
0.05

) and global well-being (SMD, 0.50; 95 % CI [0.02, 0.98];

P
=
0.04
<
0.05

). In addition, MT had a significant effect on pain relief (SMD, 0.52; 95% CI [0.03, 1.01];

P
=
0.04
<
0.05

) and improvement of physical function (SMD, 0.28; 95% CI [0.02, 0.53];

P
=
0.03
<
0.05

) even after a period of time after treatment. Conclusion. MT was an effective intervention, which may have immediate effect on cancer pain and may improve physical function and global well-being. In the view of follow-up effects, MT had good effects for the reduction of pain and the recovery of physical function. However, because of limitations, the seemingly promising results should be interpreted with caution.
Advance in the Role of Epigenetic Reprogramming in Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer-Mediated Embryonic Development
Authors: Zhang Xiaolei , Gao Shaorong , Liu Xiaoyu
Published: February 2021

Somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) enables terminally differentiated somatic cells to gain totipotency. Many species are successfully cloned up to date, including nonhuman primate. With this technology, not only the protection of endangered animals but also human therapeutics is going to be a reality. However, the low efficiency of the SCNT-mediated reprogramming and the defects of extraembryonic tissues as well as abnormalities of cloned individuals limit the application of reproductive cloning on animals. Also, due to the scarcity of human oocytes, low efficiency of blastocyst development and embryonic stem cell line derivation from nuclear transfer embryo (ntESCs), it is far away from the application of this technology on human therapeutics to date. In recent years, multiple epigenetic barriers are reported, which gives us clues to improve reprogramming efficiency. Here, we reviewed the reprogramming process and reprogramming defects of several important epigenetic marks and highlighted epigenetic barriers that may lead to the aberrant reprogramming. Finally, we give our insights into improving the efficiency and quality of SCNT-mediated reprogramming.
The Effect of Transcutaneous Electrical Acupoint Stimulation on Postoperative Catheter-Related Bladder Discomfort in Patients Undergoing Transurethral Resection of the Prostate
Authors: Liang Dongdong , Jin ShenHui , Huang LeDan , Ren YeLong , Du ZhongHeng , Wang Li , Ren Ying , Yang KeNing , Wang JunLu , Yu JinGui
Published: February 2021

Background. Catheter-related bladder discomfort (CRBD), an extremely distressing complication secondary to an indwelling urinary catheterization, is frequently reported in patients with transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), postoperatively. A prospective, randomized, controlled, double-blind study was designed to assess the efficacy of transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) as a treatment for CRBD in patients undergoing TURP. Methods. Seventy benign prostatic hyperplasia male patients undergoing TURP under general anesthesia requiring intraoperative urinary catheterization were enrolled for the trial. An experienced acupuncturist performed TEAS for 30 minutes before general anesthesia with acupoints RN7, RN6, RN5, RN4, and RN3 and bilateral BL32, BL33, and BL34. Mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), oxygen saturation (SPO2), body temperature (T), and blood samples were collected during the surgery. A series of assessments included the incidence and severity of CRBD, postoperative pain, nausea and vomiting, and physical and mental state measurements. Results. The incidence of CRBD was significantly lower in TEAS group than in control group at the time T5 [9(26%) vs. 28(80%),

P
<
0.001

], T9 [20(57%) vs. 28(80%),

P
=
0.039

], T11 [7(20%) vs. 31(89%),

P
<
0.001

], and T12 [4(11%) vs. 7(20%),

P
=
0.003

]. The severity of CRBD was significantly lower in TEAS group than in control group at the time T5 [0 vs. 10 (29%),

P
<
0.001

], T9 [2(6%) vs. 10(29%),

P
=
0.011

], and T11 [0 vs .9(26%),

P
=
0.002

]. The QoR-40 total score was higher in TEAS group at time T11 [191.7(4.4) vs. 189.1(4.3),

P
=
0.007

] and T12 [195.3(1.9) vs. 193.3(3.0),

P
<
0.001

]. The postoperative analgesia requirement was higher in control group [5.0(2.9) vs. 3.8(1.9),

P
=
0.045

]. Conclusions. TEAS could significantly prevent the incidence and severity of CRBD, reduce the postoperative analgesic requirement in the early postoperative period, and promote the quality of early recovery in patients undergoing TURP.
Patient Satisfaction with Implant‐Supported Monolithic and Partially Veneered Zirconia Restorations
Authors: De Angelis Paolo , Gasparini Giulio , Rella Edoardo , De Angelis Silvio , Grippaudo Cristina , D’Addona Antonio , Manicone Paolo Francesco
Published: February 2021

The digital workflow and the application of Computer‐Aided Manufacturing (CAM) to prosthodontics present the clinician with the possibility of adopting new materials that confer several advantages. Especially in the case of zirconia, these innovations have profoundly changed daily practice. This paper compares the satisfaction and perception of patients who received implant‐supported single crowns (SC) and fixed partial dentures (FPD) made from zirconia, either monolithic or partially veneered, after 3 years of follow‐up; the success and survival rate of these restorations were also measured. Forty patients, who had been previously treated with implant‐supported SC or FPD, either monolithic or partially veneered, and submitted to a yearly maintenance program, were recalled 3 years after their treatment and requested to complete an 8‐question questionnaire regarding their perceptions of the treatment. Any mechanical or biological complication that had occurred from the time of delivery was also recorded. Patients that experienced ≥1 complication were less likely to be prone to repeat the treatment. The 3‐year success rate was 92.6% for monolithic restoration and 92.3% for partially veneered restoration, while the survival rate was 100% for both restorations. The 3‐year follow‐up found that monolithic and partially veneered zirconia restorations are both well‐accepted treatment options, and patients preferred the veneered restorations (0.76, p < 0.05) from an aesthetic point of view. According to our results, monolithic and veneered zirconia restorations are both reliable treatment options and are both equally accepted by patients.
Depression among Adolescents of Rural Nepal: A Community-Based Study
Authors: Gautam Prayas , Dahal Maginsh , Ghimire Harishchandra , Chapagain Sakuntala , Baral Kushalata , Acharya Rohit , Khanal Sudip , Neupane Anu
Published: February 2021

This community-based study is aimed at finding out the prevalence of depression, and its correlates among adolescents of rural Nepal. Data were collected among adolescents after multistage stratified proportionate random sampling by using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) to assess the depression among adolescent. Chi-square test and logistic regression model were applied. The prevalence of depression was found to be 27%. Adolescents who were not satisfied with their academic performance were 2.4 times more likely to have the risk of depression (

AOR
=
2.417

, CI: 1.097-5.326). Likewise, tobacco users were almost fourteen times (

AOR
=
13.858

, CI: 2.090-91.90), who intended to harm themselves were two times (

AOR
=
2.323

, CI: 1.078-5.005), sleep deprivation were fifteen folds (

AOR
=
14.911

, CI: 7.376-30.145), often scolded by their parents was almost three times (

AOR
=
2.931

, CI: 1.195-7.436), and having poor relationship with friends were 2.4 times more likely (

AOR
=
2.371

, CI: 1.078-5.215) of having depression. Sleep deprivation has a long-term negative impact on health leading depression.
Molecular Design of Novel Chemicals for Iron Sulfide Scale Removal
Authors: Onawole Abdulmujeeb T. , Hussein Ibnelwaleed A. , Nimir Hassan I. , Ahmed Musa E. M. , Saad Mohammed A.
Published: February 2021

Scale deposition is a pertinent challenge in the oil and gas industry. Scales formed from iron sulfide are one of the troublous scales, particularly pyrite. Moreover, the use of biodegradable environmentally friendly chemicals reduces the cost compared to the conventional removal process. In this work, the chelating abilities of four novel chemicals, designed using the in silico technique of density functional theory (DFT), are studied as potential iron sulfide scale removers. Only one of the chemicals containing a hydroxamate functional group had a good chelating ability with Fe2+. The chelating strength and ecotoxicological properties of this chemical were compared to diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA), an already established iron sulfide scale remover. The new promising chemical surpassed DTPA in being a safer chemical and having a greater binding affinity to Fe2+ upon optimization, hence, a better choice. The presence of oxime (-NHOH) and carbonyl (C=O) moieties in the new chemical showed that the bidentate form of chelation is favored. Moreover, the presence of an intramolecular hydrogen bond enhanced its chelating ability.
Cognitive Sequelae of Central-Variant Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES)
Authors: Seemiller Joseph , Malik Muhammad Taimur
Published: February 2021

Introduction. Although the posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is often associated with headache and visual changes, central-variant PRES can be difficult to clinically diagnose in a patient with alteration of consciousness. Central-variant PRES has been previously described in the literature affecting subcortical white matter and the brainstem. Case Presentation. We describe a case presenting with hypertension (192/98) and altered level of consciousness requiring intubation. She was ultimately found to have extensive symmetric cortical and subcortical edema, with extensive involvement of bilateral thalami, consistent with central-variant PRES. Her mentation rapidly improved with blood pressure management. Confirmation of the diagnosis of central-variant PRES was made on repeat brain imaging. Our case is unique in demonstrating dramatic central white matter changes and their reversibility on repeat imaging six days later. Finally, persistent cognitive deficits at follow-up four months later are described. Conclusion. Atypical presentations of PRES, involving alterations in levels of consciousness, can be difficult to clinically diagnose. A thorough differential diagnosis is even more important in cases of PRES with atypical imaging. Recognition of the diagnostic patterns of PRES on brain imaging, with prompt reversal of the causative factors, is crucial for the appropriate care of these patients. The long-term sequelae, which could include cognitive deficits, are poorly studied and understood.