bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teleseismic tomography: Equation one is wrong
Authors: Julian Bruce R. , Foulger Gillian R.
Published: December 2021

Seismic tomography methods that use waves originating outside the volume being studied are subject to bias caused by unknown structure outside this volume. The bias is of the same mathematical order and similar magnitude as the local-structure effects being studied; failure to account for it can significantly corrupt derived structural models.

This bias can be eliminated by adding to the inverse problem three unknown parameters specifying the direction and time for each incident wave, a procedure analogous to solving for event locations in local-earthquake and whole-mantle tomography. The forward problem is particularly simple: The first-order change in the arrival time at an observation point resulting from a perturbation to the incident-wave direction and time equals the change in the time of the perturbed incident wave at the point where the unperturbed ray entered the study volume. This consequence of Fermat’s principle apparently has not previously been recognized. Published teleseismic tomography models probably contain significant artifacts and need to be recomputed using the more complete theory.
Correlative tomography of an exceptionally preserved Jurassic ammonite implies hyponome-propelled swimming
Authors: Cherns Lesley , Spencer Alan R.T. , Rahman Imran A. , Garwood Russell J. , Reedman Christopher , Burca Genoveva , Turner Martin J. , Hollingworth Neville T.J. , Hilton Jason
Published: December 2021

The extreme rarity of soft-tissue preservation in ammonoids has meant there are open questions regarding fundamental aspects of their biology. We report an exceptionally preserved Middle Jurassic ammonite with unrivaled information on soft-body organization interpreted through correlative neutron and X-ray tomography. Three-dimensional imaging of muscles and organs of the body mass for the first time in this iconic fossil group provides key insights into functional morphology. We show that paired dorsal muscles withdrew the body into the shell, rather than acting with the funnel controlling propulsion as in Nautilus. This suggests a mobile, retractable body as a defense strategy and necessitates a distinct swimming mechanism of hyponome propulsion, a trait that we infer evolved early in the ammonoid-coleoid lineage.
Rare cause of chronic abdominal pain: left paraduodenal hernia and its surgical management
Authors: Chikara Ajay , Karnati Sasidhar Reddy , Kurdia Kailash Chand , Sakaray Yashwant
Published: December 2021

A 30-year-old man presented with colicky abdominal pain for 2 months, associated with occasional episodes of bilious vomiting. He had a history of similar complaints at the age of 16 and 26 years. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography abdomen was consistent with a diagnosis of left paraduodenal hernia. On laparoscopy a 3 × 3 cm hernial defect was identified in the left paraduodenal fossa (fossa of Landzert). Contents were jejunal, and proximal ileal loops which were dilated and edematous. Anterior border of the sac was formed by the inferior mesenteric vein and left branch of the left colic artery. Initial reduction of contents was easy. However, complete reduction proved to be difficult due to adhesions with the sac opening, the hernial sac instead laid open by dividing the Inferior Mesentric Vein (IMV) (anterior border of defect) using a vascular stapler. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 3 in a stable condition. On follow-up the patient is doing well.
Association between the chronology of gestation and the morphometrical skin characteristics at childbirth: a development of predictive model
Authors: de Souza Ingrid Michelle Fonseca , Vitral Gabriela Luiza Nogueira , Caliari Marcelo Vidigal , Reis Zilma Silveira Nogueira
Published: December 2021

Objective

The structural maturation of the skin is considered a potential marker of pregnancy dating. This study investigated the correlation between the morphometrical skin characteristics with the pregnancy chronology to propose models for predicting gestational age.

Methods

A cross-sectional analysis selected 35 corpses of newborns. The biopsy was performed up to 48 hours after death in the periumbilical abdomen, palm and sole regions. Pregnancy chronology was based on the obstetric ultrasound before 14 weeks. The dimensions of the skin layers, area of glands and connective fibrous tissue were measured with imaging software support. Univariate and multivariate regression models on morphometric values were used to predict gestational age.

Results

Gestational age at birth ranged from 20.3 to 41.2 weeks. Seventy-one skin specimens resulted in the analysis of 1183 digital histological images. The correlation between skin thickness and gestational age was positive and strong in both regions of the body. The highest univariate correlation between gestational age and skin thickness was using the epidermal layer dimensions, in palm (r=0.867, p<0.001). The multivariate modelling with the thickness of the abdominal epidermis, the dermis and the area of the sebaceous glands adjusted had the highest correlation with gestational age (r=0.99, p<0.001).

Conclusion

The thickness of the protective epidermal barrier is, in itself, a potential marker of pregnancy dating. However, sets of values obtained from skin morphometry enhanced the estimation of the gestational age. Such findings may support non-invasive image approaches to estimate pregnancy dating with various clinical applications.
Correlation of features on OCT with visual acuity and Gass lesion type in Best vitelliform macular dystrophy
Authors: Coussa Razek G , Fortenbach Christopher R , Critser D Brice , Collins Malia M , Tucker Budd A , Mullins Robert F , Sohn Elliott H , Stone Edwin M , Han Ian C
Published: December 2021

Objective

To correlate structural features seen on optical coherence tomography (OCT) with best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and Gass lesion type in patients with Best vitelliform macular dystrophy (BVMD).

Methods and analysis

This is a retrospective case series of consecutive patients with molecularly confirmedBEST1-associated BVMD. OCT scans were reviewed for lesion status and presence of subretinal pillar, focal choroidal excavation (FCE), intraretinal fluid or atrophy. Available OCT angiography images were used to evaluate for the presence of choroidal neovascularisation (CNV). These features were then correlated with BCVA and Gass lesion type.

Results

95 eyes from 48 patients (mean age 38.9 years, range 4–87) were included. The presence of a pillar (24.2%), FCE (20.0%) and atrophy (7.4%) were associated with poor BCVA (p<0.05). Gass lesion type 1 eyes were correlated with good BCVA (LogMAR <0.4) whereas type 5 eyes had poor BCVA (LogMAR >0.4). Among 65 eyes with longitudinal data (mean follow-up 5.1 years), 7 eyes (10.8%) reverted from higher to lower Gass lesion type; of these, 4 eyes (57.1%) had CNV responsive to intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor treatment.

Conclusion

OCT-based structural features are readily identifiable in patients with BVMD and have prognostic importance due to their correlation with BCVA.
Birth prevalence of encephalocele in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Oumer Mohammed , Demissie Kassahun Alemnew
Published: December 2021

Objective

To identify the birth prevalence of encephalocele in Africa, 2020.

Methods

We carried out a systematic search of the following databases (PubMed/Medline, PubMed Central, Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Library, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Science Direct, African Journals Online and Embase), using search terms (prevalence, encephalocele, “neural tube defects”, “cranium bifidum”, “congenital malformations”, “congenital defects”, “structural birth defects”, “structural abnormalities”, newborns/neonates/ “live births”/ “stillbirths” and their MeSH Terms) up to 16 July 2021. The JBI quality appraisal checklist was used to assess the quality of studies when they were abstracted using a standardised data extraction template. The I2 statistic and Cochrane Q test were used to examine heterogeneity across studies statistically. The prevalence of encephalocele was estimated using a random-effect meta-analysis model. Subgroup, sensitivity, meta-regression and time trend analysis were carried out. The publication bias was checked using Egger and Begg’s tests.

Results

Twenty-seven relevant studies were identified and provided a total of 5 107 109 births. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, the pooled birth prevalence of encephalocele in Africa was 0.02% (or 2 per 10 000 births) (95% CI 0.02% to 0.03%). The overall prevalence of birth encephalocele using the median from studies was 0.02% (IQR=0.01%–0.04%). Higher prevalence of encephalocele was detected in Nigeria 0.06% (95% CI 0.04% to 0.08%), Sudan 0.04% (95% CI 0.03% to 0.05%), Egypt 0.04% (95% CI 0.04% to 0.05%), DR of Congo 0.02% (95% CI 0.02% to 0.03%), Ethiopia 0.02% (95% CI −0.004% to 0.05%) and Tanzania 0.02% (95% CI 0.002% to 0.04%). The prevalence of encephalocele per live birth was 0.03% and both live birth and stillbirth was 0.03%.

Conclusions

This review indicates a high prevalence of encephalocele, but studies were limited suggesting the need for additional research.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42021242161.
The cost of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in China: a multi-center cross-sectional survey based on hospitals
Authors: Yang Weili , Tang Zhen , Wang Xijin , Ma Xiancang , Cheng Yuqi , Wang Bin , Sun Ping , Tang Wenxin , Luo Jia , Wang Changhong , Li Ping , Xu Guiyun , Yan Jun , Brakoulias Vlasios , Wang Zhen
Published: December 2021

Background

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is considered a very debilitating disorder with severe loss of quality of life and income.

Aims

This study estimates the quality of life and economic consequences of OCD in China.

Methods

The research team interviewed 639 patients with OCD in 13 hospitals in 12 cities in China. The direct method was used to get the direct cost of OCD. Indirect costs associated with OCD were estimated using the human capital approach. Linear regression analysis was conducted for quality of life and generalised linear model analysis was conducted for total cost. Sensitivity analysis was used to analyse the uncertainty of total cost.

Results

The mean quality of life score for OCD was 52.78 (20.46). The annual total cost of OCD per capita was 24 503.78 (95% CI: 22 621.53 to 26 386.03) renminbi (RMB) (US$3465.88 (95% CI: US$3199.65 to US$3732.11)). The annual cost of OCD in China was estimated to be 37.74 billion (95% CI: 34.95 billion to 40.53 billion) RMB (equal to US$5.34 billion (95% CI: US$4.94 billion to US$5.73 billion)). Sensitivity analysis showed that the total annual cost of OCD in China was between 23.15 billion RMB (US$3.27 billion) and 370.00 billion RMB (US$52.33 billion). Worse social function status, more psychiatric symptoms and higher Yale Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS) score were associated with worse quality of life. The numbers of clinic visits and hospitalisations, socioeconomic status, education, Y-BOCS scores and age were found to be significantly associated with total cost.

Conclusions

OCD is associated with low quality of life and high costs in China. The findings call for concerted efforts to improve services for patients with OCD.

Improvements may include early detection and diagnosis, the provision of evidence-based treatments and relapse prevention strategies.
Determinations of fission cross-sections and fission yields from proton induced fission reactions of 232Th, 233,235,236,238U, 237Np and 239Pu
Authors: Sarpün İsmail Hakki , Yalim Hüseyin Ali , Aydin Abdullah , Tel Eyyup , Akdeniz Ferhan , Şahin Selcan
Published: December 2021

In this work, the proton induced fission reaction cross-sections and fission yields are calculated for some actinides [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] using the fission barrier models of the TALYS 1.95 code. Cross-sections and fission yield calculations are carried out up to 100 MeV incident proton energies. The calculation results are compared with the available experimental data in the EXFOR library. In addition, a relative variance analysis of fission barrier models was done to determine the fission barrier model whose results best matched with the experimental results. Among the fission barrier models, the best agreement with the experimental data is obtained from the rotating-finite-range fission barrier model calculation for the [Formula: see text] reaction of the studied nuclei having the atomic mass number larger than 230. On the other hand, fission barrier heights for the studied reactions are determined using the same models.
Red shift of photon frequency in the gravitational field
Authors: Wang Jin Tong , Fan Jiangdi , Kan Aaron X.
Published: December 2021

It has been well known that there is a redshift of photon frequency due to the gravitational potential. Scott et al. [Can. J. Phys. 44 (1966) 1639, https://doi.org/10.1139/p66-137 ] pointed out that general relativity theory predicts the gravitational redshift. However, using the quantum mechanics theory related to the photon Hamiltonian and photon Schrodinger equation, we calculate the redshift due to the gravitational potential. The result is exactly the same as that from the general relativity theory.
Topological Chaos for Differential Inclusions with Multivalued Impulses on Tori
Authors: Andres Jan
Published: December 2021

A multivalued version of the Ivanov inequality for the lower estimate of topological entropy of admissible maps is applied to differential inclusions with multivalued impulses on tori via the associated Poincaré translation operators along their trajectories. The topological chaos in the sense of a positive topological entropy is established in terms of the asymptotic Nielsen numbers of the impulsive maps being greater than 1. This condition implies at the same time the existence of subharmonic periodic solutions with infinitely many variety of periods. Under a similar condition, the coexistence of subharmonic periodic solutions of all natural orders is also carried out.
Low-temperature synthesis of oxygen-rich fish-scale-like porous boron nitride for effective water cleaning
Authors: Li Jie , Xia Mengting , Zhang Lin , Tao Junhui , Wang Chuanhui , Wu Tian
Published: December 2021

Effective removal of the organic pollutants from aqueous solution is significative and challenging for environmental sustainability. The high-performance adsorbent materials need to be developed. In this study, oxygen-rich fish-scale-like porous boron nitride (O-PBN) was facilely synthesized only at 900[Formula: see text]C (about 400[Formula: see text]C lower than that of the conventional process) through the molten salt method. The adsorption capacity of the as-prepared O-PBN for Methylene Blue (MB) from water was 422.6 mg/g, resulting from oxidizing groups and B–O bonds induced by oxygen doping as well as fish-scale-like structure composed of the BN nanoflakes. Moreover, the initial removal capacity of O-PBN only lost 7.6% even after 10 adsorption–regeneration cycles due to their strong resistance to oxidation. The unique B–O polar covalent bond, fish-scale-like two-dimensional nanostructure exposing the active adsorption sites to the surface ((002) crystal plane) and high specific surface area of O-PBN are confirmed to be the key factors in significantly enhancing water purification and regeneration performance. Overall, the synthetic method should help to a low-temperature and facile fabrication of O-PBN for effective water cleaning.
Development of Electrochemical Surface Treatment to Visualize Critical Corrosion-Inducing Inclusions of Zr in Chloride Environments
Authors: Manaka Tomoyo , Tsutsumi Yusuke , Chen Peng , Ashida Maki , Katayama Hideki , Hanawa Takao
Published: December 2021

An electrochemical surface treatment was developed to visualize the corrosion-inducing inclusions of Zr in chloride environments. Pure Zr and Zr alloy (Zr–0.5O–0.5C) were evaluated in this study. The electrochemical surface treatment consisted of repeated galvanostatic anodic polarization and potentiostatic cathodic polarization. After the electrochemical surface treatment, only one brittle and non-conductive shell of Zr oxide was observed at the corrosion initiation site on the tested surface. The corrosion-inducing inclusions were found inside the corrosion pit under the optimum polarization conditions. At the corrosion initiation site on pure Zr, the area inside the corrosion pit contained larger amounts of O, C, and Si than the surrounding matrix. In the case of the Zr-0.5O–0.5C alloy, relatively larger inclusions were observed after the treatment. Extremely large amounts of Si, together with O and C, were present in the inclusions. The inclusions that induced localized corrosion on the pure Zr and Zr-0.5O–0.5C specimens were found to be precipitated, involving the specific aggregation of Si. The surface treatment developed in this study is expected to be utilized as a powerful tool to elucidate the localized corrosion mechanism of Zr in chloride environments.
Microkinetic Modeling of CO2 and H2O Electrolysis on Ni in a Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cell: A Critical Evaluation
Authors: Janardhanan Vinod M.
Published: December 2021

Solid oxide cells (SOC) are ideal candidates for the electrochemical conversion of H2O and CO2 into H2 and CO using renewable sources. This work develops different electrochemical models for the reduction of H2O and CO2 based on elementary step kinetics and discriminates them based on their ability to predict experimentally measured cell performances. The thermo-catalytic chemistry is represented using a micro kinetic model, which is coupled to the electrochemical model through the surface coverage terms. A one dimensional representation of SOC resolving the cell across the thickness of the electrodes is used for simulations. The source terms for the species transport Eqs. are calculated using the micro kinetic model by applying mean field approximation. The discussion in the paper covers aspects related to parameter fitting, model development, solution methodology, model discrimination and identification of rate limiting step.
Electrochemistry-Induced Restructuring of Tin-Doped Indium Oxide Nanocrystal Films of Relevance to CO2 Reduction
Authors: Knecht Tawney A. , Boettcher Shannon W. , Hutchison James E.
Published: December 2021

The electrochemical reduction of CO2 into fuels using renewable electricity presents an opportunity to utilize captured CO2. Electrocatalyst development has been a primary focus of research in this area. This is especially true at the nanoscale, where researchers have focused on understanding nanostructure-property relationships. However, electrocatalyst structure may evolve during operation. Indium- and tin-based oxides have been widely studied as electrocatalysts for CO2 reduction to formate, but evolution of these catalysts during operation is not well-characterized. Here, we report the evolution of nanoscale structure of precise tin-doped indium oxide nanocrystals under CO2 reduction conditions. We show that sparse monolayer nanocrystal films desorb from the electrode upon charging, but thicker nanocrystal films remain, likely due to an increased number of physical contacts. Upon applying a cathodic voltage of −1.0 V vs RHE or greater, the original 10-nm diameter nanocrystals are no longer visible, and instead form a larger microstructural network. Elemental analysis suggests the network is an oxygen-deficient indium-tin metal alloy. We hypothesize that this morphological evolution is the result of nanocrystal sintering due to oxide reduction. These data provide insights into the morphological evolution of tin-doped indium oxide nanocrystal electrocatalysts under reducing conditions and highlight the importance of post-electrochemical structural characterization of electrocatalysts.
Two‐Stage Hybrid Machine Learning Model for High‐Frequency Intraday Bitcoin Price Prediction Based on Technical Indicators, Variational Mode Decomposition, and Support Vector Regression
Authors: Gyamerah Samuel Asante
Published: December 2021

Due to the inherent chaotic and fractal dynamics in the price series of Bitcoin, this paper proposes a two‐stage Bitcoin price prediction model by combining the advantage of variational mode decomposition (VMD) and technical analysis. VMD eliminates the noise signals and stochastic volatility in the price data by decomposing the data into variational mode functions, while technical analysis uses statistical trends obtained from past trading activity and price changes to construct technical indicators. The support vector regression (SVR) accepts input from a hybrid of technical indicators (TI) and reconstructed variational mode functions (rVMF). The model is trained, validated, and tested in a period characterized by unprecedented economic turmoil due to the COVID‐19 pandemic, allowing the evaluation of the model in the presence of the pandemic. The constructed hybrid model outperforms the single SVR model that uses only TI and rVMF as features. The ability to predict a minute intraday Bitcoin price has a huge propensity to reduce investors’ exposure to risk and provides better assurances of annualized returns.
Ferulic Acid Alleviates Oxidative Stress-Induced Cardiomyocyte Injury by the Regulation of miR-499-5p/p21 Signal Cascade
Authors: Sun Shenghui , Ruan Yang , Yan Mingjing , Xu Kun , Yang Yao , Shen Tao , Jin Zening
Published: December 2021

Objective. To investigate the protective effects and regulatory mechanisms of ferulic acid on oxidative stress-induced cardiomyocyte injury. Methods. We established a cardiomyocyte oxidative stress cell model by H2O2 treatment and a mouse heart injury model by isoprenaline infusion of male C57BL/6 mice. Ferulic acid was applied to treat oxidative stress-induced cardiomyocyte injury. DHE staining was used to detect ROS production. DNA fragmentation, TUNEL assay, and cleaved caspase-3 were used to analyze cell apoptosis. Real-time PCR and Western blotting were used to analyze miRNA and protein levels to investigate the regulatory mechanisms of ferulic acid on oxidative stress-induced cardiomyocyte injury. Results. Ferulic acid pretreatment significantly inhibited H2O2- and isoprenaline-induced oxidative stress and cell apoptosis by promoting miR-499-5p expression and inhibiting p21 expression. MiR-499-5p inhibition reversed the protective effects of ferulic acid. Further study found that ferulic acid could also attenuate isoprenaline-induced mouse heart fibrosis and cell apoptosis by reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in vivo. Conclusions. We proved that ferulic acid protects cardiomyocytes from oxidative stress-induced injury by regulating the miR-499-5p/p21signaling pathway, which provides insight into the clinical application of ferulic acid in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
A Hybrid Intelligent Model for Urban Seismic Risk Assessment from the Perspective of Possibility and Vulnerability Based on Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Chu Jinlong , Zhang Qiang , Wang Ai , Yu Haoran
Published: December 2021

Assessing seismic risk is an essential element of urban risk management and urban spatial security work. In response to the issues posed by the complexity and openness of urban systems, the nonlinearity of driving factors, and sudden changes in geological processes that affect urban seismic research, this paper is based on a variety of intelligent algorithms to develop a hybrid intelligent model that integrates probability and vulnerability to evaluate and quantify the difference in the urban spatial units distribution of earthquake risk. We applied this model to Hefei, one of the few superlarge provincial capital cities on the “Tancheng-Lujiang” fault zone, one of the four major earthquake zones in China, which suffers frequent earthquakes. Our method combined the genetic algorithm (GA), particle swarm optimization (PSO), and backpropagation neural network methods (BP) to automatically calculate rules from inputted data on known seismic events and predict the probability of seismic events in unknown areas. Then, based on the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), spatial appraisal and valuation of environment and ecosystems method (SAVEE), and EMYCIN model, an urban seismic vulnerability was evaluated from the four perspectives of buildings, risk of secondary disasters, socioeconomic conditions, and urban emergency response capabilities. In the next step, the overall urban seismic risk was obtained by standardizing and superimposing seismic probability and vulnerability. Using the hybrid intelligent model, earthquake probability, seismic vulnerability, and overall seismic risk were obtained for Hefei, and the spatial characteristics of its overall seismic risk were examined. This study concludes that areas with very high, high, low, and very low earthquake risk in Hefei account for 8.10%, 31.90%, 40.94%, and 19.06% of its total area, respectively. Areas with very high earthquake risk are concentrated in the old city, the government affairs district, Science City, and Xinzhan District. This study concludes that government authorities of Hefei should target earthquake safety measures consisting of basic earthquake mitigation measures and pre- and postearthquake emergency measures. In the face of regional disasters such as earthquakes, coordinating and governing should be strengthened between cities and regions.
A Multilayer Perceptron Neural Network Model to Classify Hypertension in Adolescents Using Anthropometric Measurements: A Cross-Sectional Study in Sarawak, Malaysia
Authors: Chai Soo See , Cheah Whye Lian , Goh Kok Luong , Chang Yee Hui Robin , Sim Kwan Yong , Chin Kim On
Published: December 2021

This study outlines and developed a multilayer perceptron (MLP) neural network model for adolescent hypertension classification focusing on the use of simple anthropometric and sociodemographic data collected from a cross-sectional research study in Sarawak, Malaysia. Among the 2,461 data collected, 741 were hypertensive (30.1%) and 1720 were normal (69.9%). During the data gathering process, eleven anthropometric measurements and sociodemographic data were collected. The variable selection procedure in the methodology proposed selected five parameters: weight, weight-to-height ratio (WHtR), age, sex, and ethnicity, as the input of the network model. The developed MLP model with a single hidden layer of 50 hidden neurons managed to achieve a sensitivity of 0.41, specificity of 0.91, precision of 0.65,

F

-score of 0.50, accuracy of 0.76, and Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) Curve (AUC) of 0.75 using the imbalanced data set. Analyzing the performance metrics obtained from the training, validation and testing data sets show that the developed network model is well-generalized. Using Bayes’ Theorem, an adolescent classified as hypertensive using this created model has a 66.2% likelihood of having hypertension in the Sarawak adolescent population, which has a hypertension prevalence of 30.1%. When the prevalence of hypertension in the Sarawak population was increased to 50%, the developed model could predict an adolescent having hypertension with an 82.0% chance, whereas when the prevalence of hypertension was reduced to 10%, the developed model could only predict true positive hypertension with a 33.6% chance. With the sensitivity of the model increasing to 65% and 90% while retaining a specificity of 91%, the true positivity of an adolescent being hypertension would be 75.7% and 81.2%, respectively, according to Bayes’ Theorem. The findings show that simple anthropometric measurements paired with sociodemographic data are feasible to be used to classify hypertension in adolescents using the developed MLP model in Sarawak adolescent population with modest hypertension prevalence. However, a model with higher sensitivity and specificity is required for better positive hypertension predictive value when the prevalence is low. We conclude that the developed classification model could serve as a quick and easy preliminary warning tool for screening high-risk adolescents of developing hypertension.
Applications of Deep Learning on Topographic Images to Improve the Diagnosis for Dynamic Systems and Unconstrained Optimization
Authors: Alshammari Gharbi , Hamad Abdulsattar Abdullah , Abdullah Zeyad M. , Alshareef Abdulrhman M. , Alhebaishi Nawaf , Alshammari Abdullah , Belay Assaye
Published: December 2021

Studies carried out by researchers show that data growth can be exploited in such a way that the use of deep learning algorithms allow predictions with a high level of precision based on the data, which is why the latest studies are focused on the use of convolutional neural networks as the optimal algorithm for image classification. The present research work has focused on making the diagnosis of a disease that affects the cornea called keratoconus through the use of deep learning algorithms to detect patterns that will later be used to carry out preventive detections. The algorithm used to perform the classifications has been convolutional neural networks as well as image preprocessing to remove noise that can limit neural network learning, resulting in more than 1900 classified images out of a total of >2000 images distributed between normal eyes and those with keratoconus, which is equivalent to 92%.
Broad‐RBFNN‐Based Intelligence Adaptive Antidisturbance Formation Control for a Class of Cluster Aerospace Unmanned Systems with Multiple High‐Dynamic Uncertainties
Authors: Gao Erxin , Ning Xin , Wang Zheng , Yue Xiaokui
Published: December 2021

This paper investigates the antidisturbance formation control problem for a class of cluster aerospace unmanned systems (CAUSs) suffering from multisource high‐dynamic uncertainties. Firstly, to estimate and compensate the uncertainties existing in CAUS coordinate dynamics, an adaptive antidisturbance formation control law, which is combined by a robust adaptive control law and the second order disturbance observer, has been designed. Secondly, aiming at the adverse influences caused by the nonlinear time‐varying nonlinearities existing in the formation flight dynamics, the radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) is introduced. Furthermore, considering the rapidly varying characteristics of the aforementioned formation flight nonlinearities, a novel board RBFNN (B‐RBFNN) has been constructed and utilized to improve the approximation and compensation performance. In virtue of the fusing of the B‐RBFNN and the second‐order disturbance observer‐based adaptive formation control law, the rapid response rate and the higher control accuracy of the formation control system can be achieved. As a result, a novel B‐RBFNN‐based intelligence adaptive antidisturbance formation control algorithm has been established for CAUS trajectory coordination and formation flight. Numerical simulation results are proposed to illustrate the effectiveness and advantages of the proposed B‐RBFNN‐based intelligent adaptive formation control method for the CAUS.
Influence of Water‐Structure and Soil‐Structure Interaction on Seismic Performance of Sea‐Crossing Continuous Girder Bridge
Authors: Guo Jie , Wang Kunpeng , Liu Hongtao , Zhang Nan
Published: December 2021

Based on the Hong Kong‐Zhuhai‐Macao project, considering the fluid‐structure interaction and soil‐structure interaction, the seismic response of a sea‐crossing continuous girder bridge is analyzed. Three‐dimensional nonlinear numerical bridge model is developed, in which the hydrodynamic force is represented by added mass and pile‐soil interaction is represented by p‐y elements. Meanwhile, stratification of soil is considered in the free field analysis. Through the comparison of responses of the bridge cases, the effects of earthquake‐induced hydrodynamic force and pile‐soil interaction are studied. For the influence of hydrodynamic force, the results show that it is relatively slight as compared with pile‐soil interaction; moreover pile foundation is more sensitive to it than other bridge components. The influence of pile‐soil interaction is relatively significant. When both of the interactions are considered, the influence is not a simple superposition of acting alone, so it is recommended to consider both factors in dynamic analysis.
Effect of Application of Different Exercise Intensities on Vitamin D and Parathormone in Children with Down’s Syndrome
Authors: Allam Hatem H. , Shafie Alaa , Gharib Amal F. , El Askary Ahmad , Almehmadi Mazen , Alsayad Tarek , Alziyadi Ahmed M. , Elsayyad Lamiaa K.
Published: December 2021

Background. Children with Down’s syndrome are more liable to vitamin D deficiency. Treating this deficiency with supplements is associated with the risk of intoxication. Aim. The study is aimed at comparing the effect of two exercise intensities on the modulation of vitamin D and parathormone levels in children with DS. Methods. Forty-four DS male children aged from 8 to 12 years participated in the study. They were assigned randomly into two equal groups. Group I received high-intensity treadmill aerobic exercises, and group II received moderate-intensity T-AE, three times per week for three months. The blood samples were collected from both groups before the intervention, after one month of intervention, then after three months of intervention to assess serum 25(OH)D and PTH levels. Results. Repeated measure MANOVA revealed that the high-intensity T-AE induced a significant increase in 25(OH)D after one month and after three months while it significantly decreased PTH only after three months. Moderate-intensity T-AE had a nonsignificant effect on both hormones. Conclusion. The current study concluded that the high-intensity T-AE improved both vitamin D and parathormone serum levels after three months of intervention.
TXNRD1: A Key Regulator Involved in the Ferroptosis of CML Cells Induced by Cysteine Depletion In Vitro
Authors: Liu Shuhan , Wu Wei , Chen Qiaoqian , Zheng Zhiyuan , Jiang Xiandong , Xue Yan , Lin Donghong
Published: December 2021

Cysteine metabolism plays a critical role in cancer cell survival. Cysteine depletion was reported to inhibit tumor growth and induce pancreatic cancer cell ferroptosis. Nevertheless, the effect of cysteine depletion in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) remains to be explored. In this work, we showed that cysteine depletion can induce K562/G01 but not K562 cell death in the form of ferroptosis. However, the glutathione (GSH)/glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) pathways of the two CML cell lines were both blocked after cysteine depletion. This unexpected outcome guided us to perform RNA‐Seq to screen the key genes that affect the sensitivity of CML cells to cysteine depletion. Excitingly, thioredoxin reductase 1 (TXNRD1), which related to cell redox metabolism, was significantly upregulated in K562/G01 cells after cysteine depletion. We further inferred that the upregulation is negatively feedback by the enzyme activity decrease of TXNRD1. Then, we triggered the ferroptosis by applying TXNRD1 shRNA and TXNRD1 inhibitor auranofin in K562 cells after cysteine depletion. In summary, we have reason to believe that TXNRD1 is a key regulator involved in the ferroptosis of CML cells induced by cysteine depletion in vitro. These findings highlight that cysteine depletion serves as a potential therapeutic strategy for overcoming chemotherapy resistance CML.
Inflammatory Response and Oxidative Stress as Mechanism of Reducing Hyperuricemia of Gardenia jasminoides‐Poria cocos with Network Pharmacology
Authors: Liu Lijun , Jiang Shengjun , Liu Xuqiang , Tang Qi , Chen Yan , Qu Jiaojiao , Wang Li , Wang Qiang , Wang Yanli , Wang Jinmei , Zhang Yan , Kang Wenyi
Published: December 2021

Hyperuricemia (HUA) is a metabolic disease, closely related to oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, caused by reduced excretion or increased production of uric acid. However, the existing therapeutic drugs have many side effects. It is imperative to find a drug or an alternative medicine to effectively control HUA. It was reported that Gardenia jasminoides and Poria cocos could reduce the level of uric acid in hyperuricemic rats through the inhibition of xanthine oxidase (XOD) activity. But there were few studies on its mechanism. Therefore, the effective ingredients in G. jasminoides and P. cocoa extracts (GPE), the active target sites, and the further potential mechanisms were studied by LC‐/MS/MS, molecular docking, and network pharmacology, combined with the validation of animal experiments. These results proved that GPE could significantly improve HUA induced by potassium oxazine with the characteristics of multicomponent, multitarget, and multichannel overall regulation. In general, GPE could reduce the level of uric acid and alleviate liver and kidney injury caused by inflammatory response and oxidative stress. The mechanism might be related to the TNF‐α and IL‐7 signaling pathway.
Experimental Study on Influence of Microexpansive Concrete Self‐Stress on Performance of Steel Pipe Concrete
Authors: Liu Xin , Zheng Yu-Zhou , Fang Qin , Xiang Heng-Bo , Yan Hai-Chun
Published: December 2021

To explore the influence of microexpansive concrete self‐stress on the performance of steel pipe concrete, the expansion rate test of microexpansive concrete confined by steel tube was carried out with different expansion rates. Then, the mechanical properties of high‐strength steel tube‐confined microexpansive concrete (HSTCMC) short columns were conducted by the uniaxial compression test. The length‐to‐diameter ratio, the expansion rate of the microexpansive concrete, and the steel tube thickness were investigated in the study. Furthermore, the ABAQUS software was employed to analyze the microexpansive mechanism of the concrete, and it was verified by the uniaxial compression test. The test results show that the concrete possesses a remarkable volume expansion phenomenon, which was up to 150 με after four days of maintenance time. The mechanical properties of the HSTCMC short columns were greatly improved compared to the control RC pier. The yield and ultimate strength of the HSTCMC short columns can be enhanced to 8.9% and 14.6%, and with the content of expansive agent that increased from 8% to 12%. The finite element analysis results highlighted that the end constraint at the two ends has the biggest influence on the mechanical performance of the HSTCMC short columns, followed by the thickness of the steel tube and the content of the expansive agent. It should be noted that the self‐stress of microexpansive concrete will be decreased with the increase in the length‐to‐diameter ratio, when the length‐to‐diameter ratio is less than four. Furthermore, the constraint effect of the circular steel tube on the microexpansive concrete is better than that of the rectangular section steel tube.
Hybrid Element Heuristic Algorithm Optimizing Neural Network‐Based Educational Courses
Authors: Tu Chunlei , Liu Yanjin , Zheng Lixiao
Published: December 2021

The rapid development of computer networks has enabled information technology to penetrate many fields, providing unprecedented opportunities for all aspects of our lives. In order to allow students to acquire necessary knowledge and skills through efficient learning, this article studies the design and development of educational technology courses based on hybrid metaheuristic algorithms to optimize neural networks. This paper proposes a metaheuristic algorithm and explains the simulated annealing algorithm and microregular annealing algorithm in detail. Using these algorithms, a mathematical model of the normal scheduling problem was also constructed, and the mathematical model was applied to the design and development of educational technology courses. In addition, the neuron model in the neural network and the activation function of the neural network are discussed from various aspects. In the experiment, according to the needs of students, a learning platform for educational technology courses was designed and developed. The experimental results of this article show that there are significant differences in the starting point of the ability level of learners for different majors. Education majors have a higher level of understanding of educational technology courses; 38.20% of students know well, while art majors have a low level of understanding of education technology courses, with 36.05% of students majoring in art.
Support Vector Machine-Based Analysis of Holmium Laser Lithotripsy in Treatment of Urinary Calculus from Ultrasound Images
Authors: Li Hu , Chen Zhijun , Kong Dezhi , Huang Zhiqiang , Wang Ningning
Published: December 2021

This study was to investigate the application value of ultrasound images optimized by support vector machine (SVM) algorithm in the efficacy analysis of holmium laser lithotripsy in the treatment of urinary calculi. 92 patients for treatment of UC were selected as research subjects, with 46 cases in each group. The control group received pneumatic lithotripsy for diagnosis and treatment. The observation group received holmium laser lithotripsy for calculus treatment. The perimeter and area of the defect and the length and width of the external distance of the most effective area of the defect were used as classification features, and a classifier based on SVM was constructed and applied to it. After treatment, the success rate, operation duration, stone clearance time, and hospital stay of the two groups were comprehensively evaluated. The results showed that the success rate of the observation group adopting holmium laser lithotripsy was 100%. The duration of operation in the observation group was (29.7 ± 7.65) min, and the time to clear calculus was (6.99 ± 5.29) days. The length of hospital stay was (3.67 ± 2.9) days. The probability of complications in the observation group was 3.11%. The observation group was superior to the control group in all surgical indicators (95%, 40.7 ± 8.36 minutes, 14.1 ± 7.21 days, and 5.12 ± 3.72 days), with considerable differences between groups (

P
<
0.05

). The strong support structure similarity information improved the detection and diagnostic analysis ability of ultrasonic images. In conclusion, after ultrasound image evaluation based on SVM algorithm, the adoption of holmium laser lithotripsy can effectively improve the success rate of patients with urinary system disease, which was worthy of clinical adoption and promotion.
Distressing Belching with Chorea Induced by Caudate Infarction
Authors: Sanpei Yui , Hanazono Akira , Kamada Sachiko , Sugawara Masashiro
Published: December 2021

Although belching is mostly associated with gastrointestinal disorders, it occasionally accompanies movement disorders such as Parkinsonism or dystonia. A woman in her 80s presented distressing belching and chorea of the right arm and leg from 3 years earlier. A brain MRI showed a left caudate infarction and atrophic change. Haloperidol significantly improved belching and chorea. Caudate infarction can cause distressing belching with chorea. It might be important to select the appropriate drug by referring to the accompanying involuntary movement to treat belching with movement disorders.
Evaluation of a Stepped Care Approach to Manage Depression and Diabetes Distress in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes and Type 2 Diabetes: Results of a Randomized Controlled Trial (ECCE HOMO Study)
Authors: Schmitt Andreas , Kulzer Bernhard , Reimer André , Herder Christian , Roden Michael , Haak Thomas , Hermanns Norbert
Published: December 2021

Introduction: Depression is a common and serious complication of diabetes. Treatment approaches addressing the specific demands of affected patients are scarce. Objective: The aim of this work was to test whether a stepped care approach for patients with diabetes and depression and/or diabetes distress yields greater depression reduction than treatment-as-usual. Methods: Two-hundred and sixty patients with diabetes and elevated depressive symptoms (CES-D ≥16) and/or elevated diabetes distress (PAID ≥40) were randomized to stepped care for depression or diabetes treatment-as-usual. The primary outcome was the rate of meaningful depression reduction at the 12-month follow-up according to the HAMD (score <9 or reduction by ≥50%). Secondary outcomes were changes in depression scores (HAMD/CES-D), diabetes distress (PAID), diabetes acceptance (AADQ), well-being (WHO-5), quality of life (EQ-5D/SF-36), self-care behavior (SDSCA/DSMQ), HbA1c, and biomarkers of inflammation. Results: One-hundred and thirty-one individuals were assigned to stepped care and 129 to treatment-as-usual. Overall, 15.4% were lost to follow-up. Meaningful depression reduction was observed in 80.2 versus 51.2% in stepped care versus treatment-as-usual (p < 0.001, intention-to-treat analysis). Of the secondary measures, the HAMD (∆ –3.2, p < 0.001), WHO-5 (∆ 1.5, p = 0.007), and AADQ (∆ –1.0, p = 0.008) displayed significant treatment effects, while effects on CES-D (∆ –2.3, p = 0.065), PAID (∆ –3.5, p = 0.109), and SDSCA (∆ 0.20, p = 0.081) were not significantly different. Both groups showed comparable changes in EQ-5D/SF-36, DSMQ, HbA1c, and biomarkers of inflammation (all p ≥ 0.19). Conclusions: The stepped care approach improved depression, well-being, and acceptance. The results support that increasing treatment intensity on demand is effective and can help provide more optimal treatment. The inclusion of diabetes-specific interventions may be beneficial for patients with diabetes and elevated depression.
Ischemic Conditioning in the Right Colon and Terminal Ileum: An Experimental Rat Model
Authors: Rodriguez-Leon Gerardo , Estremiana Fernando , Miro Monica , Bettonica Carla , Aranda Humberto , Farran Leandre , de Oca Javier , Sabench Fatima , Jorba Rosa
Published: December 2021

Introduction: Preoperative gastric ischemic conditioning (IC) improves the outcome of esophageal replacement gastroplasty and is associated with low morbidity. However, when the stomach cannot be used for esophageal replacement, a colonic replacement is required. The study aim was to assess the viability of right colon and terminal ileum IC in a rat model and the histological damage/recovery sequence and determine if neovascularization is a potential adaptive mechanism. Methods: The study was conducted in Rattus norvegicus with ileocolic vascular ligation. Seven groups of animals were established (6 rats per group) with groups defined by the date of their post-IC euthanasia (+1, +3, +6, +10, +15, and +21 days). Comparisons were made with a sham group. Viability of the model was defined as <10% of transmural necrosis. The evaluation of histological damage used the Chiu score in hematoxylin and eosin sections of paraffin-embedded specimens with CD31 immunohistochemical assessment of neovascularization by the median of submucosal vessel counts in 5 high-magnification fields. Results: Transmural colon necrosis occurred in 1/36 animals (2.78%) with no animal demonstrating transmural ileal necrosis. The maximum damage was observed in the colon on +1 day post-IC (average Chiu score 1.67, p = 0.015), whereas in the ileum, it was on days +1, +3, and +6 (average Chiu score 1.5, 1.3, and 1.17; p = 0.015, 0.002, and 0.015, respectively). In the +21-day group, histological recovery was complete in the colon in 4 (66.7%) of the 6 animals and in the ileum in 5 (83.3%) of 6 animals. There were no significant differences in quantitative neovascularization in any of the groups when compared with the sham group or when comparisons were made between groups. Conclusions: The tested animal model for IC of the colon and terminal ileum appeared to be feasible. Histological damage was maximal between the 1st and 3rd day following IC, but by day 21, recovery was complete in two-thirds of the rats. There was no evidence in this preliminary IC model that would suggest neovascularization as an adaptive mechanism.