bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Price Learning-based Incentive Mechanism for Mobile Crowd Sensing
Authors: Zhang Yifan , Zhang Xinglin
Published: June 2021

Mobile crowd sensing (MCS) is an emerging sensing paradigm that can be applied to build various smart city and IoT applications. In an MCS application, the participation level of mobile users plays an essential role. Thus a great many incentive mechanisms have been proposed to motivate users. However, most of these works focus on the bidding behavior of users and overlook the feature of task requesters. Specifically, there exists a disparity between the low payment a requester would like to make and the high reward a user would like to receive. In this work, we address this issue by designing a group-buying-based online incentive mechanism, which contains two stages: In Stage I, a price learning algorithm is designed to select winning tasks for each group of sensing tasks and obtain a competitive total budget for recruiting users. In Stage II, an online auction is conducted between group agents and online users before a given recruitment deadline. Through theoretical analysis and extensive evaluations, we show that the proposed mechanisms possess computational efficiency, individual rationality, budget balance, truthfulness, and good performance.
Progress in the Glauber Model at Collider Energies
Authors: d'Enterria David , Loizides Constantin
Published: June 2021

We review the theoretical and experimental progress in the Glauber model of multiple nucleon and/or parton scatterings after the last 10–15 years of operation with proton and nuclear beams at the BNL Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider and the CERN Large Hadron Collider. The main developments and the state of the art of the field are summarized. These encompass measurements of the inclusive inelastic proton and nuclear cross sections, advances in the description of the proton and nuclear density profiles and their fluctuations, inclusion of subnucleonic degrees of freedom, experimental procedures and issues related to the determination of the collision centrality, validation of the binary scaling prescription for hard scattering cross sections, and constraints on transport properties of quark–gluon matter from varying initial-state conditions in relativistic hydrodynamics calculations. These advances confirm the validity and usefulness of the Glauber formalism for quantitative studies of quantum chromodynamics matter produced in high-energy collisions of systems, from protons to uranium nuclei, of vastly different size.
Communication—An Optical Fiber Biosensor Based on a Lab-on-a-Tip Approach for User-Friendly Carbosulfan Detection in Vegetable Samples
Authors: Kuswandi B. , Taufikurrohman M. R. , Nugraha A. S.
Published: June 2021

The use of a disposable pipette tip was studied to create a lab-on-a-tip approach. The configuration of a pipette tip, fiber optics, and paper-based biosensor show the compatibility of creating a novel one-shot optical biosensor for carbosulfan as carbamate pesticide. Under optimal experimental parameters, the lab-on-a-tip could detect carbosulfan in the linear range value of 10–22000 μg l−1 with a detection limit value of 10 μg l−1. The results show good agreement with the HPLC method.
The Chalkboard: A Positive Spin on Corrosion Measurements: The Rotating Ring-Disk Electrode
Authors: Noel Jamie
Published: June 2021

Within the inventory of highly sensitive, selective, and broadly useful electroanalytical techniques available nowadays resides a very clever approach to the measurement of reaction rates, including those of certain non electrochemical reactions, and the simultaneous quantitative identification of reaction products, including short-lived intermediates. Conceived by Alexander Frumkin in 1958 and first built by Lev Nekrasov, the rotating ring-disk electrode (RRDE) was a spin-off of the rotating disk electrode (RDE) for which Benjamin Levich developed the hydrodynamic equations defining the electrochemical response. A fascinating account of the development of the RRDE technique by Soviet, American, and British electrochemists during and despite the Cold War can be found in an earlier issue of Interface.
Deficiency in ST2 signaling ameliorates RSV-associated pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Vu Luan D. , Saravia Jordy , Jaligama Sridhar , Baboeram Panday Rajshri V. , Sullivan Ryan D. , Mancarella Salvatore , Cormier Stephania A. , Kimura Dai
Published: June 2021

We report that the pathogenic role of ST2-mediated type 2 immunity and mechanisms contribute to RSV-associated pulmonary hypertension. Inhibiting ST2 signaling may be a novel therapeutic target for this condition.
Deep learning-based automated left ventricular ejection fraction assessment using 2-D echocardiography
Authors: Liu Xin , Fan Yiting , Li Shuang , Chen Meixiang , Li Ming , Hau William Kongto , Zhang Heye , Xu Lin , Lee Alex Pui-Wai
Published: June 2021

A new strategy of feature extraction and fusion could enhance the accuracy of automatic LVEF assessment based on multiview 2-D echocardiographic sequences. High diagnostic performance for the determination of heart failure was obtained by using DPS-Net in cases with different phenotypes of heart diseases. High performance for left ventricle segmentation was obtained by using DPS-Net, suggesting the potential for a wider range of application in the interpretation of 2DE images.
Network Pharmacology-Based Prediction of Bioactive Compounds and Potential Targets of Wenjing Decoction for Treatment of Endometriosis
Authors: Liu Yu-nan , Hu Xiao-jing , Liu Bei , Shang Yu-jie , Xu Wen-ting , Zhou Hui-fang
Published: June 2021

Endometriosis is a chronic estrogen-dependent inflammatory disorder that negatively affects the quality of life in women. The Wenjing decoction (WJD) is a traditional Chinese medicine that has been shown to have a therapeutic effect on endometriosis. Our study systematically explored the mechanism of WJD against endometriosis using a network pharmacology approach. Potentially bioactive compounds of WJD and their possible targets were retrieved from the Traditional Chinese Medicine System Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform. The protein-protein interaction network and herbs-compounds-genes multinetwork were constructed using Cytoscape for visualization. Subsequently, the signaling pathways of common targets were retrieved from the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) databases, and molecular docking was performed using PyRx software. In total, 48 common targets were screened, such as IL6 and ESR1, which were related to inflammation and the endocrine system. The top five bioactive compounds were quercetin, kaempferol, wogonin, beta-sitosterol, and stigmasterol. KEGG enrichment analysis revealed 65 pathways containing inflammatory- and endocrine-related signaling pathways, such as the “TNF signaling pathway” and the “estrogen signaling pathway.” Taken together, the results of our network pharmacology analysis predicted that certain active ingredients of WJD might treat endometriosis by regulating inflammation and/or endocrine, which provided references for further understanding and exploration of WJD on endometriosis.
Study on Dynamic Behavior Law and Microseismic Monitoring in Stoping Process of Roadway with High Gas and Wide Coal Pillar
Authors: Gao Baobin , Ren Chuangnan , Dong Qun , Chen Liwei
Published: June 2021

In order to study the dynamic characteristics and microseismic distribution in the mining process of roadway with high gas and wide coal pillar, combined with the two dynamic events of N2105 working face in Yuwu Coal Industry, theoretical analysis and field measurement research were carried out. According to the theory of structural mechanics and geomechanics, the causes of dynamic appearance are analyzed. Combined with the specific situation, the influence of mining depth, coal pillar width, gas pressure, and content on the dynamic performance is analyzed. Stress monitoring and microseismic monitoring are carried out on one side of coal seam. The results show that, with the increase of the mining distance, the backside roof of the goaf is prone to unbalanced fracture due to the lack of lateral stress, and the impact pressure generated is used for the reserved protective coal pillar behind the goaf, causing the floor heave of coal seam. The combined stress generated by the anticlinal structure below the working face interacts with the abutment pressure of the working face to produce superposition effect, which promotes the occurrence of dynamic appearance. The critical depth of rock burst in Yuwu Coal Industry is about 600m. The increase of coal elastic energy caused by roof subsidence is more uniform with the increase of coal pillar width. The decrease of gas pressure in coal seam promotes the rock burst disaster. The vertical stress of coal seam at one side of the working face shows different evolution characteristics along the trend and strike. The vertical stress of coal seam in the lateral range of 53 m is adjusted to different degrees and tends to be stable until 300 m behind the working face. The active microseismic area in the middle of the working face was located 50 m in front of the working face, and the microseismic activity continued to 30–50 m behind the working face. The active microseismic area at the side of the roadway was located 30 m in front of the working face, and the microseismic activity continued to 100–180 m behind the working face. The inflection point, where the stress in the elastic area of coal pillar increases sharply, corresponds to the active microseismic area, which indicates that the dynamic characteristics in the mining process of roadway with high gas and wide coal pillar are related to the distribution law of microseismic. This study has a certain guiding significance for optimizing the width of reserved coal pillar, monitoring the coal seam stress/microseismic, and understanding the dynamic disaster of coal and rock under complex conditions.
Deep Learning Data Privacy Protection Based on Homomorphic Encryption in AIoT
Authors: Wang Yichuan , Liang Xiaolong , Hei Xinhong , Ji Wenjiang , Zhu Lei
Published: June 2021

With the rapid development of 5G technology, its high bandwidth, high reliability, low delay, and large connection characteristics have opened up a broader application field of IoT. Moreover, AIoT (Artificial Intelligence Internet of Things) has become the new development direction of IoT. Through deep learning of real-time data provided by the Internet of Things, AI can judge user habits more accurately, make devices behave in line with user expectations, and become more intelligent, thus improving product user experience. However, in the process, there is a lot of data interaction between the edge and the cloud. Given that the shared data contain a large amount of private information, preserving information security on the shared data is an important issue that cannot be neglected. In this paper, we combine deep learning with homomorphic encryption algorithm and design a deep learning network model based on secure multiparty computing (MPC). In the whole process, we realize that the cloud only owns the encryption samples of users, and users do not own any parameters or structural information related to the model. In the experimental part, we input the encrypted Mnist and Cifar-10 datasets into the model for testing, and the results show that the classification accuracy rate of the encrypted Mnist can reach 99.21%, which is very close to the result under plaintext. The classification accuracy rate of encrypted Cifar-10 can reach 91.35%, slightly lower than the test result in plaintext and better than the existing deep learning network model that can realize data privacy protection.
Metamorphopsia and Morphological Changes in the Macula after Scleral Buckling Surgery for Macula-Off Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment
Authors: Xu Sisi , Wang Ling , Kong Kangjie , Li Gang , Ni Yingqin
Published: June 2021

Purpose. To observe the changes in metamorphopsia after scleral buckling (SB) surgery for macula-off rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) and its association with morphological changes in the macula. Methods. This prospective study included 20 eyes of 20 patients. Before surgery and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery, metamorphopsia measured by M-charts and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and macular microstructures assessed using optical coherence tomography were recorded. Results. Both the vertical and horizontal M-scores improved significantly after SB surgery. BCVA also improved gradually. The mean M-score in the eyes with a continuous external limiting membrane (ELM) was smaller than that in the eyes with a disrupted ELM (

P
=
0.008

). Preoperative and postoperative BCVA did not correlate with the mean M-score at any time point. The other studied parameters, namely, the duration of RRD, the height of retinal detachment, central foveal thickness, inner nuclear layer thickness, and continuation of the ellipsoid zone, were also not relevant. Conclusions. The continuation of the ELM may be a critical factor in determining the severity of metamorphopsia after SB surgery for macula-off RRD.
Molecular and Microscopic Investigation of Sarcocystis Species Isolated from Sheep Muscles in Iran
Authors: Pestechian Nader , Yousefi Hossein Ali , Kalantari Reza , Jafari Rasool , Khamesipour Faham , Keshtkar Mohammad , Esmaeilifallah Mahsa
Published: June 2021

Sarcocystis species is a genus of cyst-forming parasites infecting both humans and animals globally. Some of these species cause clinical and subclinical diseases in the host and may lead to economic losses. This study was carried out to identify the distribution patterns of Sarcocystis spp. in slaughtered sheep based on the digestion method and PCR-RFLP in Isfahan, the center of Iran. In total, 150 fresh muscle samples (30 hearts, 60 esophagi, and 60 diaphragms) were investigated by naked eye observation and then scrutinized based on the digestion method. To this end, pepsin and HCl were used to observe the Sarcocystis parasite via a light microscope. The PCR was carried out to intensify a fragment of the 18S rRNA gene. Afterward, the PCR products were exposed to digestion by endonuclease TaqI, HindII, EcoRI, and AvaI. Consequently, the results of RFLP were confirmed by sequencing, and the phylogenetic placement of all species was analyzed. Through the examination by the naked eye, 5/150 (3.33%) macroscopic cysts were found in the samples. With the tissue digestion and microscopic examination, 116 (77.33%) samples were positive for Sarcocystis spp.; however, 125 (83.33%) samples were positive with PCR. Moreover, the results of sequence analysis on macrocysts and microcysts showed that 4% and 96% of the species belonged to S. gigantea and S. tenella, respectively. According to the results of the current study, sarcocystosis caused by S. tenella are highly prevalent among sheep in the Isfahan region. Due to the high prevalence of Sarcocystis infection in the world and Iran, the development of disease control and prevention policies in sheep would be essential, and changing attitudes in the way of keeping livestock from the traditional type to the industrial method is recommended in this regard.
Effects of Rhizopus Nigricans Exopolysaccharide on Proliferation, Apoptosis, and Migration of Breast Cancer MCF-7 Cells and Akt Signaling Pathway
Authors: Xiang Aizhai , Ling Chen , Zhang Wei , Chen Honggang
Published: June 2021

Objective. To study the effect of Rhizopus nigricans exopolysaccharide EPS1-1 on the proliferation, apoptosis, and migration of breast cancer MCF-7 cells. Methods. Human breast cancer MCF-7 cells were cultured in vitro and treated with different concentrations of EPS1-1. The effect of EPS1-1 on cell proliferation was tested by the CCK-8 experiment, and the effect of EPS1-1 on cell apoptosis was determined by flow cytometry. And the scratch test was used to detect the impact of EPS1-1 on cell migration. Western blot then was used to measure the expression changes of related proteins in the Akt signaling pathway. Results. Compared with the control group, treatment with EPS1-1 significantly reduced the proliferation, migration, and invasion ability of MCF-7 cells and promoted the apoptosis of MCF-7 cells in a dose-dependent manner. In terms of the underlying mechanism, EPS1-1 can significantly inhibit the phosphorylation of Akt at threonine 308 and serine 473 and cause the expression changes of downstream proliferation-related genes CCND1 and p21, apoptosis-related genes Bcl-2 and Bax, and migration-related genes Vimentin and E-cadherin in terms of their protein levels. Conclusion. EPS1-1 can inhibit the proliferation, migration, and invasion of breast cancer MCF-7 cells and promote the apoptosis of MCF-7 cells by inhibiting the activation of the Akt signaling pathway. Therefore, EPS1-1 can be used as a potential new drug or adjuvant drug for the treatment of breast cancer.
Effect and Mechanism of TL1A Expression on Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition during Chronic Colitis-Related Intestinal Fibrosis
Authors: Wenxiu Jia , Mingyue Yang , Fei Han , Yuxin Luo , Mengyao Wu , Chenyang Li , Jia Song , Hong Zhang , Shih David Q. , Targan Stephan R. , Xiaolan Zhang
Published: June 2021

Background and Aims. Recent evidences reveal that epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) exacerbates the process of intestinal fibrosis. Tumor necrosis factor-like ligand 1A (TL1A) is a member of the tumor necrosis family (TNF), which can take part in the development of colonic inflammation and fibrosis by regulating immune response or inflammatory factors. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the possible contribution of TL1A in onset and progression of intestinal inflammation and fibrosis through EMT. Methods. Colonic specimens were obtained from patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and control individuals. The expression levels of TL1A and EMT-related markers in intestinal tissues were evaluated. Furthermore, the human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line, HT-29, was stimulated with TL1A, anti-TL1A antibody, or BMP-7 to assess EMT process. In addition, transgenic mice expressing high levels of TL1A in lymphoid cells were used to further investigate the mechanism of TL1A in intestinal fibrosis. Results. High levels of TL1A expression were detected in the intestinal specimens of patients with ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease and were negatively associated with the expression of an epithelial marker (E-cadherin), while it was positively associated with the expression of interstitial markers (FSP1 and α-SMA). Transgenic mice with high expression of TL1A were more sensitive to dextran sodium sulfate and exhibited severe intestinal inflammation and fibrosis. Additionally, the TGF-β1/Smad3 pathway may be involved in TL1A-induced EMT, and the expression of IL-13 and EMT-related transcriptional molecules (e.g., ZEB1 and Snail1) was increased in the intestinal specimens of the transgenic mice. Furthermore, TL1A-induced EMT can be influenced by anti-TL1A antibody or BMP-7 in vitro. Conclusions. TL1A participates in the formation and process of EMT in intestinal fibrosis. This new knowledge enables us to better understand the pathogenesis of intestinal fibrosis and identify new therapeutic targets for its treatment.
Resveratrol Ameliorates High-Fat-Diet-Induced Abnormalities in Hepatic Glucose Metabolism in Mice via the AMP-Activated Protein Kinase Pathway
Authors: Lu Caiping , Xing Hanying , Yang Linquan , Chen Kaiting , Shu Linyi , Zhao Xiaojian , Song Guangyao
Published: June 2021

Diabetes mellitus is highly prevalent worldwide. High-fat-diet (HFD) consumption can lead to liver fat accumulation, impair hepatic glycometabolism, and cause insulin resistance and the development of diabetes. Resveratrol has been shown to improve the blood glucose concentration of diabetic mice, but its effect on the abnormal hepatic glycometabolism induced by HFD-feeding and the mechanism involved are unknown. In this study, we determined the effects of resveratrol on the insulin resistance of high-fat-diet-fed mice and a hepatocyte model by measuring serum biochemical indexes, key indicators of glycometabolism, glucose uptake, and glycogen synthesis in hepatocytes. We found that resveratrol treatment significantly ameliorated the HFD-induced abnormalities in glucose metabolism in mice, increased glucose absorption and glycogen synthesis, downregulated protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) and activated Ca2+/CaM-dependent protein kinase kinase

β

(CaMKKβ), and increased the phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). In insulin-resistant HepG2 cells, the administration of a PP2A activator or CaMKKβ inhibitor attenuated the effects of resveratrol, but the administration of an AMPK inhibitor abolished the effects of resveratrol. Resveratrol significantly ameliorates abnormalities in glycometabolism induced by HFD-feeding and increases glucose uptake and glycogen synthesis in hepatocytes. These effects are mediated through the activation of AMPK by PP2A and CaMKKβ.
Overview of Molecular Dynamics Simulation of Natural Gas Hydrate at Nanoscale
Authors: Qi Rongrong , Qin Xuwen , Bian Hang , Lu Cheng , Yu Lu , Ma Chao
Published: June 2021

As a dynamic research method for molecular systems, molecular dynamic (MD) simulation can represent physical phenomena that cannot be realized by experimental means and discuss the microscopic reaction mechanism of things from the molecular level. In this paper, the previous research results were reviewed. First, the MD simulation process was briefly described, then, the applicability of different molecular force fields in the natural gas hydrate (NGH) system was discussed, and finally, the application of MD simulation in the formation and decomposition law of NGH was summarized from the perspective of NGH mining. The results show that the selection of water molecular force field has a great influence on the simulation results, and the evaluation of water model applicable to the simulation of NGH under different thermodynamic states is still an open research field that needs to be paid attention to. The effect of surface properties of porous media (such as crystallinity and hydrophilicity) on hydrate needs to be further studied. Compared with thermodynamic inhibitors, kinetic inhibitors (such as amino acids) have more promising research prospects, and further research can be carried out in the screening of efficient kinetic inhibitors in the future.
Prevalence and Predictors of Stunting among Primary School Children in Northeast Ethiopia
Authors: Bazie Getaw Walle , Seid Mohammed , Egata Gudina
Published: June 2021

Background. Stunting is a major public health problem affecting children in low- and middle-income countries and has become one of the underlying causes of early childhood mortality. However, there is a paucity of information on the prevalence of stunting and its predictors among school children in these settings including Ethiopia. Objective. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of stunting and its predictors among school children in Northeast Ethiopia. Methods. A school-based cross-sectional study design was used among 341 primary school children in Northeast Ethiopia from October to December 2019. A simple random sampling technique was used to recruit the study subjects. A pretested structured questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic and dietary data. Anthropometric data were generated using WHO AnthroPlus software version 1.0.4. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to see the association between independent variables and the outcome variable. Odds ratio along with 95% confidence interval was estimated to measure the strength of the association. The level of statistical significance was declared at

p

value ≤ 0.05. Results. The prevalence of stunting was found to be 14.1% (95% CI: 10.1%, 18.1%). Family size of 6–9 (AOR = 2.43; 95% CI: (1.16, 4.58)), washing hands less frequently before eating (AOR = 3.96; 95% CI: (2.09, 11.66)), and intestinal parasitic infection (AOR = 2.66; 95% CI: (1.16, 4.95)) were significantly associated with stunting. Conclusion. The prevalence of stunting among school-age children was a great public health concern. Large family size, poor handwashing practice before meals, and intestinal parasitosis were significant predictors of stunting. Thus, periodic deworming, health education on personal hygiene, and health promotion and counseling on family planning need to be strengthened by all relevant stakeholders.
Detail 3D Face Reconstruction Based on 3DMM and Displacement Map
Authors: Li Tianping , Xu Hongxin , Zhang Hua , Wan Honglin
Published: June 2021

How to accurately reconstruct the 3D model human face is a challenge issue in the computer vision. Due to the complexity of face reconstruction and diversity of face features, most existing methods are aimed at reconstructing a smooth face model with ignoring face details. In this paper a novel deep learning‐based face reconstruction method is proposed. It contains two modules: initial face reconstruction and face details synthesis. In the initial face reconstruction module, a neural network is used to detect the facial feature points and the angle of the pose face, and 3D Morphable Model (3DMM) is used to reconstruct the rough shape of the face model. In the face detail synthesis module, Conditional Generation Adversarial Network (CGAN) is used to synthesize the displacement map. The map provides texture features to render to the face surface reconstruction, so as to reflect the face details. Our proposal is evaluated by Facescape dataset in experiments and achieved better performance than other current methods.
Machine Learning in Detection and Classification of Leukemia Using Smear Blood Images: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ghaderzadeh Mustafa , Asadi Farkhondeh , Hosseini Azamossadat , Bashash Davood , Abolghasemi Hassan , Roshanpour Arash
Published: June 2021

Introduction. The early detection and diagnosis of leukemia, i.e., the precise differentiation of malignant leukocytes with minimum costs in the early stages of the disease, is a major problem in the domain of disease diagnosis. Despite the high prevalence of leukemia, there is a shortage of flow cytometry equipment, and the methods available at laboratory diagnostic centers are time-consuming. Motivated by the capabilities of machine learning (machine learning (ML)) in disease diagnosis, the present systematic review was conducted to review the studies aiming to discover and classify leukemia by using machine learning. Methods. A systematic search in four databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect) and Google Scholar was performed via a search strategy using Machine Learning (ML), leukemia, peripheral blood smear (PBS) image, detection, diagnosis, and classification as the keywords. Initially, 116 articles were retrieved. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 16 articles remained as the population of the study. Results. This review study presents a comprehensive and systematic view of the status of all published ML-based leukemia detection and classification models that process PBS images. The average accuracy of the ML methods applied in PBS image analysis to detect leukemia was >97%, indicating that the use of ML could lead to extraordinary outcomes in leukemia detection from PBS images. Among all ML techniques, deep learning (DL) achieved higher precision and sensitivity in detecting different cases of leukemia, compared to its precedents. ML has many applications in analyzing different types of leukemia images, but the use of ML algorithms to detect acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) has attracted the greatest attention in the fields of hematology and artificial intelligence. Conclusion. Using the ML method to process leukemia smear images can improve accuracy, reduce diagnosis time, and provide faster, cheaper, and safer diagnostic services. In addition to the current diagnostic methods, clinical and laboratory experts can also adopt ML methods in laboratory applications and tools.
Generalization of Fuzzy Soft

BCK

/

BCI

-Algebras
Authors: Alam N. , Muhiuddin G. , Obeidat S. , Zaidi H. N. , Altaleb A. , M. Aqib J.
Published: June 2021

In this paper, the notions of

∈
,
∈
∨
q

-fuzzy soft

BCK

/

BCI

-algebras and

∈
,
∈
∨
q

-fuzzy soft sub-

BCK

/

BCI

-algebras are introduced, and related properties are investigated. Furthermore, relations between fuzzy soft

BCK

/

BCI

-algebras and

∈
,
∈
∨
q

-fuzzy soft

BCK

/

BCI

-algebras are displayed. Moreover, conditions for an

∈
,
∈
∨
q

-fuzzy soft

BCK

/

BCI

-algebra to be a fuzzy soft

BCK

/

BCI

-algebra are provided. Also, the union, the extended intersection, and the “AND”-operation of two

∈
,
∈
∨
q

-fuzzy soft (sub-)

BCK

/

BCI

-algebras are discussed, and a characterization of an

∈
,
∈
∨
q

-fuzzy soft

BCK

/

BCI

-algebra is established.
Anticholinesterase Activity of Eight Medicinal Plant Species: In Vitro and In Silico Studies in the Search for Therapeutic Agents against Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Uddin Md Josim , Russo Daniela , Rahman Md Mahbubur , Uddin Shaikh Bokhtear , Halim Mohammad A. , Zidorn Christian , Milella Luigi
Published: June 2021

Many Bangladeshi medicinal plants have been used to treat Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative diseases. In the present study, the anticholinesterase effects of eight selected Bangladeshi medicinal plant species were investigated. Species were selected based on the traditional uses against CNS-related diseases. Extracts were prepared using a gentle cold extraction method. In vitro cholinesterase inhibitory effects were measured by Ellman’s method in 96-well microplates. Blumea lacera (Compositae) and Cyclea barbata (Menispermaceae) were found to have the highest acetylcholinesterase inhibitory (IC50, 150 ± 11 and 176 ± 14 µg/mL, respectively) and butyrylcholinesterase inhibitory effect (IC50, 297 ± 13 and 124 ± 2 µg/mL, respectively). Cyclea barbata demonstrated competitive inhibition, where Blumea lacera showed an uncompetitive inhibition mode for acetylcholinesterase. Smilax guianensis (Smilacaceae) and Byttneria pilosa (Malvaceae) were also found to show moderate AChE inhibition (IC50, 205 ± 31 and 221 ± 2 µg/mL, respectively), although no significant BChE inhibitory effect was observed for extracts from these plant species. Among others, Thunbergia grandiflora (Acanthaceae) and Mikania micrantha (Compositae) were found to display noticeable AChE (IC50, 252 ± 22 µg/mL) and BChE (IC50, 314 ± 15 µg/mL) inhibitory effects, respectively. Molecular docking experiment suggested that compounds 5-hydroxy-3,6,7,3′,4′-pentamethoxyflavone (BL4) and kaempferol-3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1⟶6)-β-D-glucopyranoside (BL5) from Blumea lacera bound stably to the binding groove of the AChE and BChE by hydrogen-bond interactions, respectively. Therefore, these compounds could be candidates for cholinesterase inhibitors. The present findings demonstrated that Blumea lacera and Cyclea barbata are interesting objects for further studies aiming at future therapeutics for Alzheimer’s disease.
Body Mass Index, Height, Weight Change, and Subsequent Lung Cancer Risk: The Japan Public Health Center–Based Prospective Study
Authors: Abe Sarah K. , Narita Saki , Saito Eiko , Sawada Norie , Shimazu Taichi , Goto Atsushi , Yamaji Taiki , Iwasaki Motoki , Inoue Manami , Tsugane Shoichiro
Published: June 2021

Background:

Body mass index (BMI) is inversely associated with lung cancer risk, while residual confounding by smoking or weight change is controversial. Evidence on height and lung cancer is scarce.

Methods:

We investigated the associations between anthropometrics, BMI, and height, and incidence of lung cancer among 92,098 study subjects (44,158 men and 47,940 women) in the Japan Public Health Center–based Prospective Study. Cox proportional hazards regression was performed with adjustment for potential confounders and by cancer subtypes and smoking status. Information on weight and height was self-reported at baseline, and validated using measured health check-up data.

Results:

During follow-up between 1990 and 2013 (average, 19.1 years), a total of 2,152 lung cancer cases were newly diagnosed. In a multivariate regression model, lower BMI was positively associated with overall lung cancer risk [<19 kg/m2 HR = 1.48; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.18–1.85 and 19–22.9 kg/m2; HR = 1.19; 95% CI = 1.05–1.35; Ptrend = <0.001] in men. The risk estimate was also elevated for adenocarcinoma in the BMI <19 kg/m2 category and for squamous cell carcinoma among men in the 19–22.9 kg/m2 BMI category. An association was also observed between low BMI, weight decrease, and squamous cell carcinoma in women. No significant associations were observed for other weight categories, height, weight change and lung cancer, adenocarcinoma, squamous and small cell carcinoma.

Conclusions:

Our prospective study suggests that lower BMI may be associated with an increased risk of smoking-related lung cancer in Japan, irrespective of gender.

Impact:

This study highlights the association between lower BMI and the risk of lung cancer in men.
Identifying Area-Level Disparities in Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Coverage Using Geospatial Analysis
Authors: Wheeler David C. , Miller Carrie A. , Do Elizabeth K. , Ksinan Albert J. , Trogdon Justin G. , Chukmaitov Askar , Fuemmeler Bernard F.
Published: June 2021

Background:

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection within the United States (US). Despite clinical agreement on the effectiveness and widespread availability of the prophylactic HPV vaccine, vaccination coverage in the US is suboptimal and varies by geographic region and area-level variables. The goals of this article were to model the variation in vaccination rates among boys and girls within ZIP Codes in Virginia, determine whether neighborhood sociodemographic variables explain variation in HPV vaccination, and identify areas with significantly depressed vaccination coverage.

Methods:

We used Bayesian hierarchical spatial regression models with statewide immunization registry data to consider the correlation in vaccination among boys and girls, as well as the spatial correlation in vaccination for each sex.

Results:

The results showed low vaccination coverage in our birth cohort (28.9% in girls and 23.8% in boys) relative to the national level (56.8% and 51.8%, respectively). Several area-level variables were significantly and positively associated with vaccination coverage, including population density, percentage of Hispanic population, and average number of vehicles. In addition, there were several areas of significantly lowered vaccination coverage, including predominantly rural ones, and overall large geographic disparities in HPV vaccination.

Conclusions:

Determining the geospatial patterning and area-level factors associated with HPV vaccination within a prescribed geographic area helps to inform future planning efforts.

Impact:

The results of this study will help inform future planning efforts for geographically targeted interventions and policies, as well as drive new research to implement clinical and community strategies to increase HPV vaccination.
ATR Inhibitors and Paclitaxel in Melanoma
Authors: Ashworth Alan
Published: June 2021

A phase I study defined a tolerable combination of the ATR inhibitor ceralasertib with paclitaxel and responses were seen in patients with melanoma who had progressed on an immune checkpoint inhibitor. This combination warrants further exploration to determine the extent and molecular determinants of clinical activity.

See related article by Kim et al., p. 4700
Adipokine Apelin/APJ Pathway Promotes Peritoneal Dissemination of Ovarian Cancer Cells by Regulating Lipid Metabolism
Authors: Dogra Samrita , Neelakantan Deepika , Patel Maulin M. , Griesel Beth , Olson Ann , Woo Sukyung
Published: June 2021

Adipose tissue, which can provide adipokines and nutrients to tumors, plays a key role in promoting ovarian cancer metastatic lesions in peritoneal cavity. The adipokine apelin promotes ovarian cancer metastasis and progression through its receptor APJ, which regulates cell proliferation, energy metabolism, and angiogenesis. The objective of this study was to investigate the functional role and mechanisms of the apelin-APJ pathway in ovarian cancer metastasis, especially in context of tumor cell–adipocyte interactions. When co-cultured in the conditioned media (AdipoCM) derived from 3T3-L1 adipocytes, which express and secrete high apelin, human ovarian cancer cells with high APJ expression showed significant increases in migration and invasion in vitro. We also found that cells expressing high levels of APJ had increased cell adhesion to omentum ex vivo, and preferentially “home-in” on the omentum in vivo. These apelin-induced pro-metastatic effects were reversed by APJ antagonist F13A in a dose-dependent manner. Apelin-APJ activation increased lipid droplet accumulation in ovarian cancer cells, which was further intensified in the presence of AdipoCM and reversed by F13A or APJ knockdown. Mechanistically, this increased lipid uptake was mediated by CD36 upregulation via APJ-STAT3 activation, and the lipids were utilized in promoting fatty acid oxidation via activation of AMPK-CPT1a axis. Together, our studies demonstrate that adipocyte-derived apelin activates APJ-expressing tumor cells in a paracrine manner, promoting lipid uptake and utilization and providing energy for ovarian cancer cell survival at the metastatic sites. Hence, the apelin-APJ pathway presents a novel therapeutic target to curb ovarian cancer metastasis.

Implications:

Targeting the APJ pathway in high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma is a novel strategy to inhibit peritoneal metastasis.
Long-Term Prognosis of Tinnitus Associated with Idiopathic Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Authors: Diao Tongxiang , Ma Xin , Li Jingjing , Lai Jen-Tsung , Yu Lisheng , Zhang Jilei , Wang Yixu , Zheng Hongwei , Jing Yuanyuan , Han Lin
Published: June 2021

Objective: To analyze the factors affecting the long-term prognosis of tinnitus accompanied by unilateral idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL). Methods: A total of 161 patients with sudden hearing loss (HL) accompanied by tinnitus were enrolled. All patients had two separate telephone follow-ups and were asked about changes in tinnitus. The severity of tinnitus at admission and the outcome at discharge were assessed in terms of the patients’ sex, age, level of HL, type of audiogram, etc. Results: The prognosis of tinnitus after SSNHL had no relationship with grades of HL or hearing recovery. Initial tinnitus level was remarkably associated with tinnitus improvement at discharge and was an independent risk factor for the long-term prognosis of residual tinnitus after SSNHL (odds ratio 0.722, 95% confidence interval 0.550–0.949, p = 0.019), and the median recovery time was 23.00 ± 3.80 months. Conclusions: Residual tinnitus after SSNHL has a tendency of self-recovery. The short-term prognosis of tinnitus may be related to psychological changes caused by hearing recovery, while the long-term prognosis of residual tinnitus after SSNHL is related only to the initial tinnitus level, with a median recovery time of approximately 2 years.
Organ-Specific Monitoring of Solitary Kidney after Living Donation by Using Markers of Glomerular Filtration Rate and Urinary Proteins
Authors: Theil Gerit , Weigand Karl , Fischer Kersten , Bialek Joanna , Fornara Paolo
Published: June 2021

Background: Effective follow-up after living kidney donation is important for maintaining the renal function of the donor. We investigated whether the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and urinary protein and enzyme levels can provide important information regarding the state of the remaining kidney after donor nephrectomy. Methods: Seventy-five living donations were included (prospective/retrospective) in the study. The following parameters were measured up to 1 year after donor nephrectomy: serum creatinine and cystatin C as markers of the GFR; the high-molecular-weight urinary proteins as markers of glomerular injury; and the low-molecular-weight urinary proteins and urinary enzymes as markers of tubular function. Results: One year after kidney donation, the creatinine and cystatin C values were 1.38-fold increased than their initial values, while the eGFR was 32% lower. At that time, 38% of donors had a moderate or high risk of CKD progression. The biochemical urinary glomerular and tubular kidney markers examined showed different behaviors. After a transient increase, the glomerular proteins normalized. Conversely, the detection of low-molecular-weight urinary proteins and enzymes reflected mild tubular damage at the end of the study period. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that for the evaluation of mild tubular damage, low-molecular-weight marker proteins should be included in the urine diagnostic of a personalized living kidney donor follow-up.
Effects of Dexmedetomidine as an Analgesic Adjuvant for Surgery of Femur Fracture: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Deng Shan , Yu Yonghao
Published: June 2021

Patients who undergo surgery of femur fracture suffer the excruciating pain. Dexmedetomidine (DEX) is a unique α2-adrenergic receptor agonist with sedative and analgesic properties, whose efficacy and safety are still unclear for surgery of femur fracture. Randomized controlled trials comparing the effects of addition of DEX to general or local anesthesia in surgery of femur fracture were searched from MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library database. Patients who received DEX infusion had a significant longer time to rescue analgesia compared with those without DEX coadministration. DEX treatment seemed to reduce the visual analog score; however, the significance did not reach any statistical difference. DEX as an analgesic adjuvant did not reduce the onset of sensory block time, shorten the time to achieve maximum sensory block level, and provide a longer duration of sensory block. The difference in mean sedation scores between 2 groups was not statistically significant. As for adverse effects, DEX therapy significantly increased the rate of hypotension. In conclusion, dexmedetomidine as a local anesthetic adjuvant in femur fracture surgery had a longer duration of rescue analgesia. However, the incidence of hypotension was markedly increased in these patients. It was worth noting that the evidence was of low to moderate quality.
Intranasal Steroid Use and Satisfaction in Allergic Rhinitis: A Cross-Sectional Study from an Asian Perspective
Authors: Lee Bryan W. , Lee Chrisanda S. , Lim Eugene R. , Tham Alex C.
Published: June 2021

Background: Intranasal steroid (INS) is the most effective medication class for controlling allergic rhinitis (AR) symptoms; however, its effectiveness is limited by patient compliance. Previous studies have explored INS use, compliance, satisfaction, and experience. There is, however, no Asian study on these factors in entirety. Objective: We aimed to investigate the rate of compliance to usage of INS and explore the reasons for noncompliance in our local population. Methods: We conducted a prospective cross-sectional study on 65 AR patients in a tertiary hospital. Recruited patients were administered a questionnaire to collect data about symptoms, INS use, and concerns they may have. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS. Results: The overall compliance rate to INS was 63.1%. Noncompliance was associated with increased frequency of dosing (p = 0.050), presence of sensory attributes (p = 0.041), and forgetfulness (p = 0.049). The top 3 most frequent sensory attributes experienced by patients include throat rundown (29.2%), aftertaste (21.5%), and immediate taste (20.0%). There was a significant difference between brands of INS with regard to sensory attributes experienced (p = 0.003) but no side effects (p = 0.070). Conclusions: Identifying risk factors for noncompliance to INS can help health-care providers address difficulties faced by patients and hence increase compliance, allowing better control of AR symptoms.
High-Sensitive Cardiac Troponin T for Prediction of Cardiovascular Outcomes in Stable Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients: A 3-Year Prospective Study
Authors: Sun Linlin , Wang Yonglan , Zhang Nan , Xie Xinmiao , Ding Miao , Guo Hui , Li Fengqin , Wang Xiaoxia
Published: June 2021

Background: Hemodialysis patients, who are often excluded from cardiovascular (CV) clinical trials, are associated with higher CV morbidity and mortality. The risk stratification scheme for these patients is lacking. Therefore, this investigation examined the independent CV prognostic value of high-sensitive cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) and added prognostic value over echocardiographic parameters and other clinical risk predictors in asymptomatic stable maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients. Methods: 181 patients with end-stage renal disease undergoing MHD were eligible from the dialysis center of Tongren Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine between October 2017 and September 2018. These patients were followed until September 2020 or until death. The median follow-up was 31 (IQR: 21–33) months. Outcome measures were all-cause mortality, first fatal or nonfatal CV events (CVEs), and 4-point composite major adverse CVEs (MACE). We performed multivariable Cox regression analysis using demographic, clinical, laboratory, and echocardiographic data to identify predictors of CV outcomes. We also evaluated the increased discriminative value associated with the addition of echocardiographic parameters and hs-cTnT using net reclassification improvement (NRI) and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI). Results: During follow-up, 37 patients died, 84 patients suffered one or more CVEs, and 78 patients developed 4-point MACE. In univariable analyses, age, dialysis vintage, diastolic blood pressure, parathyroid hormone concentrations, hs-cTnT, B-type natriuretic peptide, left ventricular mass index (LVMI), and E/E′ predicted all end points. hs-cTnT remained a strong predictor for each end point in multivariate analysis, whereas LVMI and E/E′ did not. The addition of hs-cTnT on top of clinical and echocardiographic variables was associated with improvements in reclassification for CVEs (NRI = 44.6% [15.9–74.3%], IDI = 15.9% [5.7–31.0%], all p < 0.001), all-cause mortality (NRI = 35.5% [10.1–50.2%], p < 0.001, IDI = 4.4% [1.3–8.5%], p = 0.005), and 4-point MACE (NRI = 47.2% [16.1–64.9%], p < 0.001, IDI = 16.9% [5.5–37.3%], p = 0.005). Adding echocardiographic variables on top of clinical variables and hs-cTnT was not associated with significant improvements in NRI and IDI (all p > 0.05). Conclusions: Our data suggest that hs-cTnT is a powerful independent predictor of CV outcome and all-cause mortality in stable MHD patients. The additional use of echocardiography for improvement of risk stratification is not supported by our results.