bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Daily Time of Radiation Treatment Is Associated with Subsequent Oral Mucositis Severity during Radiotherapy in Head and Neck Cancer Patients
Authors: Gu Fangyi , Farrugia Mark K. , Duncan William D. , Feng Yingdong , Hutson Alan D. , Schlecht Nicolas F. , Repasky Elizabeth A. , Antoch Marina P. , Miller Austin , Platek Alexis , Platek Mary E. , Iovoli Austin J. , Singh Anurag K.
Published: February 2020

Background:

Limited treatment options are available for oral mucositis, a common, debilitating complication of cancer therapy. We examined the association between daily delivery time of radiotherapy and the severity of oral mucositis in patients with head and neck cancer.

Methods:

We used electronic medical records of 190 patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma who completed radiotherapy, with or without concurrent chemotherapy, at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center (Buffalo, NY) between 2015 and 2017. Throughout a 7-week treatment course, patient mouth and throat soreness (MTS) was self-reported weekly using a validated oral mucositis questionnaire, with responses 0 (no) to 4 (extreme). Average treatment times from day 1 until the day before each mucositis survey were categorized into seven groups. Multivariable-adjusted marginal average scores (LSmeans) were estimated for the repeated- and maximum-MTS, using a linear-mixed model and generalized-linear model, respectively.

Results:

Radiation treatment time was significantly associated with oral mucositis severity using both repeated-MTS (n = 1,156; P = 0.02) and maximum-MTS (n = 190; P = 0.04), with consistent patterns. The severity was lowest for patients treated during 8:30 to <9:30 am (LSmeans for maximum-MTS = 2.24; SE = 0.15), increased at later treatment times and peaked at early afternoon (11:30 am to <3:00 pm, LSmeans = 2.66–2.71; SEs = 0.16/0.17), and then decreased substantially after 3 pm.

Conclusions:

We report a significant association between radiation treatment time and oral mucositis severity in patients with head and neck cancer.

Impact:

Although additional studies are needed, these data suggest a potential simple treatment time solution to limit severity of oral mucositis during radiotherapy without increasing cost.
Race May Not Impact Endocrine Therapy–Related Changes in Breast Density
Authors: Johnson Helen M. , Shivalingappa Hitesh , Irish William , Wong Jan H. , Muzaffar Mahvish , Verbanac Kathryn , Vohra Nasreen A.
Published: February 2020

Background:

Reduction in breast density may be a biomarker of endocrine therapy (ET) efficacy. Our objective was to assess the impact of race on ET-related changes in volumetric breast density (VBD).

Methods:

This retrospective cohort study assessed longitudinal changes in VBD measures in women with estrogen receptor–positive invasive breast cancer treated with ET. VBD, the ratio of fibroglandular volume (FGV) to breast volume (BV), was measured using Volpara software. Changes in measurements were evaluated using a multivariable linear mixed effects model.

Results:

Compared with white women (n = 191), black women (n = 107) had higher rates of obesity [mean ± SD body mass index (BMI) 34.5 ± 9.1 kg/m2 vs. 30.6 ± 7.0 kg/m2, P < 0.001] and premenopausal status (32.7% vs. 16.7%, P = 0.002). Age- and BMI-adjusted baseline FGV, BV, and VBD were similar between groups. Modeled longitudinal changes were also similar: During a follow-up of 30.7 ± 15.0 months (mean ± SD), FGV decreased over time in premenopausal women (slope = −0.323 cm3; SE = 0.093; P = 0.001), BV increased overall (slope = 2.475 cm3; SE = 0.483; P < 0.0001), and VBD decreased (premenopausal slope = −0.063%, SE = 0.011; postmenopausal slope = −0.016%, SE = 0.004; P < 0.0001). Race was not significantly associated with these longitudinal changes, nor did race modify the effect of time on these changes. Higher BMI was associated with lower baseline VBD (P < 0.0001). Among premenopausal women, VBD declined more steeply for women with lower BMI (time × BMI, P = 0.0098).

Conclusions:

Race does not appear to impact ET-related longitudinal changes in VBD.

Impact:

Racial disparities in estrogen receptor–positive breast cancer recurrence and mortality may not be explained by differential declines in breast density due to ET.
Embedding Mobile Health Technology into the Nurses' Health Study 3 to Study Behavioral Risk Factors for Cancer
Authors: Fore Ruby , Hart Jaime E. , Choirat Christine , Thompson Jennifer W. , Lynch Kathleen , Laden Francine , Chavarro Jorge E. , James Peter
Published: February 2020

Background:

Physical activity and sleep are behavioral risk factors for cancer that may be influenced by environmental exposures, including built and natural environments. However, many studies in this area are limited by residence-based exposure assessment and/or self-reported, time-aggregated measures of behavior.

Methods:

The Nurses' Health Study 3 (NHS3) Mobile Health Substudy is a pilot study of 500 participants in the prospective NHS3 cohort who use a smartphone application and a Fitbit for seven-day periods, four times over a year, to measure minute-level location, physical activity, heart rate, and sleep.

Results:

We have collected data on 435 participants, comprising over 6 million participant-minutes of heart rate, step, sleep, and location. Over 90% of participants had five days of ≥600 minutes of Fitbit wear-time in their first sampling week, and this percentage dropped to 70% for weeks 2 to 4. Over 819 sampling weeks, we observed an average of 7,581 minutes of heart rate and step data [interquartile range (IQR): 6,651–9,645] per participant-week, and >2 million minutes of sleep in over 5,700 sleep bouts. We have recorded location data for 5,237 unique participant-days, averaging 104 location observations per participant-day (IQR: 103–107).

Conclusions:

This study describes a protocol to incorporate mobile health technology into a nationwide prospective cohort to measure high-resolution objective data on environment and behavior.

Impact:

This project could provide translational insights into interventions for urban planning to optimize opportunities for physical activity and healthy sleep patterns to reduce cancer risk.

See all articles in this CEBP Focus section, “Modernizing Population Science.”
Anastrozole has an Association between Degree of Estrogen Suppression and Outcomes in Early Breast Cancer and is a Ligand for Estrogen Receptor α
Authors: Ingle James N. , Cairns Junmei , Suman Vera J. , Shepherd Lois E. , Fasching Peter A. , Hoskin Tanya L. , Singh Ravinder J. , Desta Zeruesenay , Kalari Krishna R. , Ellis Matthew J. , Goss Paul E. , Chen Bingshu E. , Volz Bernhard , Barman Poulami , Carlson Erin E. , Haddad Tufia , Goetz Matthew P. , Goodnature Barbara , Cuellar Matthew E. , Walters Michael A. , Correia Cristina , Kaufmann Scott H. , Weinshilboum Richard M. , Wang Liewei
Published: February 2020

Purpose:

To determine if the degree of estrogen suppression with aromatase inhibitors (AI: anastrozole, exemestane, letrozole) is associated with efficacy in early-stage breast cancer, and to examine for differences in the mechanism of action between the three AIs.

Experimental Design:

Matched case–control studies [247 matched sets from MA.27 (anastrozole vs. exemestane) and PreFace (letrozole) trials] were undertaken to assess whether estrone (E1) or estradiol (E2) concentrations after 6 months of adjuvant therapy were associated with risk of an early breast cancer event (EBCE). Preclinical laboratory studies included luciferase activity, cell proliferation, radio-labeled ligand estrogen receptor binding, surface plasmon resonance ligand receptor binding, and nuclear magnetic resonance assays.

Results:

Women with E1 ≥1.3 pg/mL and E2 ≥0.5 pg/mL after 6 months of AI treatment had a 2.2-fold increase in risk (P = 0.0005) of an EBCE, and in the anastrozole subgroup, the increase in risk of an EBCE was 3.0-fold (P = 0.001). Preclinical laboratory studies examined mechanisms of action in addition to aromatase inhibition and showed that only anastrozole could directly bind to estrogen receptor α (ERα), activate estrogen response element-dependent transcription, and stimulate growth of an aromatase-deficient CYP19A1−/− T47D breast cancer cell line.

Conclusions:

This matched case–control clinical study revealed that levels of estrone and estradiol above identified thresholds after 6 months of adjuvant anastrozole treatment were associated with increased risk of an EBCE. Preclinical laboratory studies revealed that anastrozole, but not exemestane or letrozole, is a ligand for ERα. These findings represent potential steps towards individualized anastrozole therapy.
The Effect and Mechanism of TRPC1, 3, and 6 on the Proliferation, Migration, and Lumen Formation of Retinal Vascular Endothelial Cells Induced by High Glucose
Authors: Lang Hai-Bo , Xie Ru-Xin , Huang Min-Li , Fang Li-Ying , Tang Yin-Bin , Zhang Fan
Published: February 2020

Objective: Transient receptor potential canonical (TRPC) channels are involved in neovascularization repairing after vascular injury in many tissues. However, whether TRPCs play a regulatory role in the development of diabetic retinopathy (DR) has rarely been reported. In the present study, we selected TRPC1, 3, and 6 to determine their roles and mechanism in human retina vascular endothelial cells (HREC) under high glucose (HG) conditions. Methods: HRECs were cultured in vitro under HG, hyper osmosis, and normal conditions. The expression of TRPC1, 3, and 6 in the cells at 24 and 48 h were detected by RT-polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Western blot and cell immunohistochemistry (IHC); In various concentrations, SKF96365 acted on HG cultured HRECs, the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were detected by the same methods above; and the CCK-8, Transwell, cell scratch assay, and Matrigel assay were used to assess cell proliferation, migration, and lumen formation. Results: The RT-PCR, Western blot, and IHC results showed that TRPC1 expression was increased, and TRPC6 mRNA expression was increased under high-glucose conditions. SKF96365 acted on HG cultured HRECs that VEGF expression was significantly decreased. The CCK-8 assay, Transwell assay, cell scratch assay, and Matrigel assay showed that cell proliferation, migration, and lumen formation were downregulated by SKF96365. Conclusion: HG can induce increased expression of TRPC1 and 6 in HRECs. Inhibition of the TRPC pathway not only can decrease VEGF expression but also can prevent proliferation, migration, and lumen formation of HRECs induced by HG. Inhibition of TRPC channels is expected to become a drug target for DR.
Correlation of World Health Organization 2010 Classification for Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Neoplasms with the Prognosis of Ovarian Neuroendocrine Neoplasms: Kansai Clinical Oncology Group-Protocol Review Committee/Intergroup Study
Authors: Kai Kentaro , Nasu Kaei , Nishida Haruto , Daa Tsutomu , Shikama Ayumi , Shiozaki Takaya , Kurakazu Masamitsu , Yano Mitsutake , Imamura Yuko , Tokunaga Hideki , Tasaki Kazuto , Iida Yasushi , Yamada Yuki , Morisawa Hiroyuki , Nakagawa Satoshi , Fujimoto Etsuko , Tsuruta Tomohiko , Matsumoto Harunobu , Arakawa Atsushi , Nonaka Michiko , Takano Hirokuni , Ushiwaka Takashi , Mori Taisuke , Ito Kimihiko , Motohashi Takashi , Teramoto Norihiro , Yamada Takashi
Published: February 2020

Background: In 2014, the World Health Organization (WHO) released a classification system introducing neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) of the female reproductive tract, excluding the ovaries. This study aimed to evaluate whether retrospective adaption of the gastroenteropancreatic (GEP)-NEN classification is feasible for ovarian NENs (O-NENs) and correlates with prognosis. Methods: Sixty-eight patients diagnosed with carcinoid, small cell carcinoma (pulmonary type), paraganglioma, non-small/large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC), mixed NEC, or undifferentiated carcinomas at 20 institutions in Japan were included in this retrospective cross-sectional study. We identified O-NENs through central pathological review using a common slide set, followed by reclassification according to WHO 2010 guidelines for GEP-NENs. A proportional hazards model was used to assess the association of prognostic factors (age, stage, performance status, histology, and residual disease) with overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Results: Of the 68 enrolled patients, 48 were eligible for analysis. All carcinoids (n = 32) were reclassified as NET G1/G2, whereas 14 of 16 carcinomas were reclassified as NEC/mixed adeno-NEC (MANEC) (Fisher’s exact test; p < 0.01). The OS/PFS was 49.0/42.5 months and 6.5/3.9 months for NET G1/G2 and NEC/MANEC, respectively. Histology revealed that NEC/MANEC was associated with increased risk of death (HR = 48.0; 95% CI, 3.93–586; p < 0.01) and disease progression (HR = 51.6; 95% CI, 5.54–480; p < 0.01). Conclusion: Retrospective adaption of GEP-NEN classification to O-NENs is feasible and correlates well with the prognosis of O-NENs. This classification could be introduced for ovarian tumors.
Saberes e práticas médicas de um cirurgião ilustrado
Authors: Nogueira André
Published: February 2020

O presente artigo objetiva interpretar as práticas e conhecimentos médicos expostos pelo cirurgião Francisco Antônio de Sampaio nos tratados de História Natural que produziu e em seu diálogo com os homens de ciência da Academia de Ciências de Lisboa. Interessa-nos perceber de que maneiras suas curas, para nos valermos de um termo comum à época, foram descritas e qual era o universo material e de trocas de saberes e fazeres de que dispunha no espaço em que atuara. Destacamos nessa análise as teorias médicas que o cirurgião expunha em seus escritos científicos e uma assídua circulação e ressignificação de saberes e práticas efetuadas pelo “vulgo do país”, conforme escrevia – entre outras expressões – de modo lacônico para promover um apagamento (e, em geral) detração das terapêuticas desses grupos subalternos.
Man’s Best Friend and Sometimes Target: Negative Interpersonal Relations Are Related to Animal Abuse Proclivity
Authors: Ford Jade , Bytheway Amber , Alleyne Emma
Published: February 2020

Emerging research regarding the psychological correlates of nonhuman animal abuse is warranted by the high prevalence of abuse. The few studies to examine factors related to animal abuse have found that those who commit such offenses commonly experience dysfunctional childhoods and high anxiety levels. Yet, no study has examined how attachment styles (by-products of maladaptive childhoods), social-anxiety, and animal abuse proclivity are inter-related. Therefore, this study assessed the association between attachment styles and social anxiety as indicators of animal abuse proclivity within an adult sample. It was found that an anxious attachment significantly correlated with direct proclivity (i.e., animal as the perceived provocateur) while the relationship between social anxiety and indirect animal abuse proclivity (i.e., animal as the outlet for aggression) was mediated by avoidant attachment. These findings emphasize the importance of exploring how interpersonal relationships influence our relationship with animals, to advance treatment and assessment of animal abusers.
Contours of a Constructive Pentecostal Philosophical-Theological Hermeneutic
Authors: William Oliverio, L.
Published: February 2020

Development of Pentecostal hermeneutics continues to benefit from further consideration of the roles general philosophical and theological hermeneutics play in the formation of Pentecostal hermeneutics of Scripture and life. This article pictures a Pentecostal philosophical-theological hermeneutical paradigm by sketching the contours of a broad hermeneutical realist program for Pentecostal interpretive structures. It commends a dialectical structure which recognizes the thoroughgoing contextuality of human understanding with attendant linguistic-symbolic encultured categories of knowing in interpretive relation with the ontic, which, for Pentecostal Christian hermeneutics especially, includes divine revelation. The article further commends a theological narrative of epochal moments in salvation history – Creation-Incarnation-Pentecost-Eschaton – to provide an overarching theological structure which is complementary with already prominent Pentecostal governing theological narrations.
Lectotypification of Allium perdulce (Amaryllidaceae)

Authors: SVOBODA HARLAN T. , MAYFIELD MARK H.
Published: February 2020

While verifying the status of alleged type specimens in the holdings of the U.S. National Arboretum Herbarium (NA; herbarium codes following Thiers [2020]), the first author (HTS) discovered a specimen of Allium perdulce S.V.Fraser (1939: 124), the gathering “Fraser 72,” that had several contradictory type annotations on the sheet. Additional study of the label and the protologue revealed that the specimen at NA was not a single gathering, as defined by the International Code of Nomenclature (Turland et al. 2018; Art. 8.2), but rather a mixed collection from different dates and locations. The protologue of A. perdulce states that the type specimen was deposited in the herbarium at Kansas State University (KSC) with “cotypes” being sent to GH, US, and NA, but no additional information about the type collection was provided. Thus, type material was sought at KSC to verify if the specimen at NA was in fact part of the type collection.
Ninety-three new combinations in Euploca for species of Heliotropium section Orthostachys (Boraginaceae sensu APG)

Authors: FROHLICH MICHAEL W. , THULIN MATS , CHASE MARK W.
Published: February 2020

Many new combinations are needed in Euploca, previously regarded as Heliotropium section Orthostachys, to correspond with results of our forthcoming, world-wide, molecular phylogenetic analysis. We also need these names for our many δ13C determinations that identify many Euploca species exhibiting C4 photosynthesis and show that other Euploca species are not C4. Here we make the many new combinations required to support these results.
A new species of Panaeolus (Agaricales, Basidiomycota) from Yunnan, Southwest China

Authors: HU YUWEI , MORTIMER PETER E. , KARUNARATHNA SAMANTHA C. , RASPÉ OLIVIER , PROMPUTTHA ITTHAYAKORN , YAN KAI , XU JIANCHU , HYDE KEVIN D.
Published: February 2020

A new Panaeolus species was collected on a lawn at the Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences in Southwest China and subjected to morphological and molecular analyses. Both macro- and micro-morphological features of the new species were described and compared with morphologically similar species in Panaeolus. The pileus has a distinctive reddish brown patch at the center. Phylogenetic analysis of nrITS data showed a distinct placement of the new species among the closest Panaeolus species, i.e. Panaeolus cyanescens (Berk & Broome) Sacc., Panaeolus cambodginiensis Ola’h & R. Heim, Panaeolus bisporus (Malençon & Bertault) Ew. Gerhardt and Panaeolus cyanescens var. bisporus (Malençon & Bertault) G. Moreno & Esteve-Rav. Both morphological features and phylogenetic data supported naming our taxon as a distinct new species in Panaeolus. Color photographs of basidiomata and micromorphological structures, a full description of the new species, and an updated phylogenetic tree to show the placement of the new species are provided.
Archedontia agnesae gen. n., sp. n., a new sterrhine species from Tadjikistan (Lepidoptera, Geometridae, Sterrhinae)
Authors: HAUSMANN AXEL , POTOTSKI ALEKSANDER , VIIDALEPP JAAN
Published: February 2020

A new geometrid species, Archedontia agnesae sp. n. is described from Tadjikistan. The new genus Archedontia gen. n. is assigned to the sterrhine tribe Rhodometrini, aside genus Ochodontia Lederer. Adult moth, male and female genitalia are figured and described, and COI barcode data analysed.
A new species of Catomus Allard, 1876 (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae: Helopini) from the Aeolian archipelago (Sicily, Italy)
Authors: PONEL PHILIPPE , CASCIO PIETRO LO , SOLDATI FABIEN
Published: February 2020

Catomus aeolicus sp. nov. is described from the Aeolian archipelago (Sicily, Italy). The new species differs from the other European Catomus by having distinctly bent tibiae, longer antennae (especially in males), and strongly highlighted sexual dimorphism. The shape of the aedeagus also seems diagnostic for this new species.
Power and Performance Based Genetic Ant Colony Algorithm for Virtual Machine Placement
Authors: Sushmitha  , Karthik G. M. , Sayeekumar M.
Published: February 2020

Cloud Computing is the provisioning of computing services over the Internet. A Virtual Machine (VM) creation request has to be processed in any one data center of the physical machines. Virtual Machine Placement refers to choosing appropriate host for the VM. One of the major concerns
in datacenter management is reducing the power consumption and performance filth of virtual machines. For solving the problem, GACO algorithm is proposed which uses PpW, IPR and LDR as heuristic information for ACO algorithm and for selection in Genetic algorithm. It also uses a non-linear
power consumption model for quantifying power. The performance evaluation shows the efficiency of the algorithm.
Centralized Swarm Network
Authors: Telluri Pavan , Bulusu Srinidhi , Ramesh T. K.
Published: February 2020

A theoretical approach and applications for centralizing a distributed system have been discussed along with methods for indoor Geo-location for swarm robot coordination using Multi-frequency positioning technique combined with traditional method of determination of distance using accelerometer.
This hybrid method of determining coordinates of bots is reliable as it depends on multiple sources. The models for centralization using a controller, without violating swarm intelligence principles is discussed.
Reversible Data Hiding in Encrypted Video Using Reversible Image Transformation
Authors: Vinod Malavika , Pallavi M. , Ajith Sreelakshmi , Sriram Padmamala
Published: February 2020

This work focuses on a method to hide images in videos in a manner that the secret image can be losslessly recovered from the target image with minimal distortion. This lossless recovery can be done by using Reversible Data Hiding (RDH). To ensure the privacy of the video owner, the
target media is encrypted before applying RDH. Reversible Image Transformation (RIT) is a framework used to ensure that. Audio Steganography techniques are used for further encryption. This can be used in cloud technology so that the cloud may add information into the target video without
compromising its integrity. RDH also has other possible applications in the field of military, defence and medicine.
Semantic Filtering of Twitter Data Using Labeled Property Graph (LPG)
Authors: Kalva Charan Teja , Abhishek Kumar , Vutnoori Arun , Maloth Vamshi Krishna
Published: February 2020

Hidden interests of an individual can be inferred by keenly observing their social profile data and blending this data with a semantic network. Getting user interests without user’s manual intervention is very beneficial for companies feeding on user’s regular behavior.
This paper provides the entire idea of how to retrieve the user’s hidden interests and what is a semantic network. Twitter is the preferred social platform for entities extraction. We started basically by gathering entities like hashtags and keywords from the tweets posted by an individual.
And simultaneously created a Semantic Network using Wikipedia’s taxonomy of categories and subcategories and pages implementing a concept called Labeled Property Graph (LPG). Matching the pre-obtained tweet entities with the Wikipedia graph of Categories and Pages a graph is generated
called Hierarchical Interest Graph (HIG) which contains so called hidden interests of user. HIG of an individual is an isolated entity and may never match with others’ HIG.
Multi-Core Architecture and Network on Chip: Applications and Challenges
Authors: Sesha Saiteja Maddula N. V. , Sai Sumanth Reddy K. , Radha D. , Moharir Minal
Published: February 2020

Technology improves performance and reduces in size day by day. Reduction in size can increase the density and which in turn can improve the performance. These statements suit very well for the computer architecture improvement. The whole System on Chip (SoC) brought the concept of
multiple cores on a single chip. The multi-core or many-core architectures are the future of computing. Technology has improved in reducing the size and increasing the density, but improving the performance to an expectation of including more cores is a challenge of many-core technology. Utilization
of all cores and improving the performance of execution by these cores are the challenges to be addressed in a many-core technology. This paper discusses the basics of many core architecture, comparison and applications. Further, it covers the basics of Network on Chip (NoC), architectural
components, and various views of current Network on Chip research problems. Research problems include improving the performance of communication by avoiding congested path in routing.
An Enhanced Authentication Scheme for Internet of Things Based E-Healthcare System
Authors: Chaudhary Ravi Raushan Kumar , Singh Ashish , Chatterjee Kakali
Published: February 2020

Security is a major challenge in modern IoT based healthcare monitoring systems. It provides many benefits such as critical patient monitoring, remote diagnosis at anytime, anywhere. Hence, security of this data is essential when the healthcare professionals access it. Also, while storing
the patients record; it must be kept safe from misuse and modification of data as other devices can easily track it. To prevent this type of threats, we have proposed a mutual authentication protocol to enhance health care security and to resist vulnerable attacks. The proposed scheme used
Challenge response protocol for the authentication purpose and the Diffie-Hellman key exchange protocol is used for generation of the session key generation. The security analysis of the proposed scheme shows that the scheme is more secure and resist all the major attacks as compared to other
schemes. The Formal verification of this schema also ensures that it resists most probable attacks in this system. The result of the proposed authentication scheme shows that it has low computational and communicational load.
Circulant Matrix-Based Continuous Wavelet Transform for Achieving Low Complexity Electrocardiogram Feature Extraction in Health Monitoring Applications
Authors: Ponnam Harikrishna , Shaik Jakeer Hussain
Published: February 2020

In the application of remote cardiovascular monitoring, the computational complexity and power consumption need to be maintained in a considerable level in order to prevent the limitations introduced by the computationally constrained equipment’s that perform the process of continuous
monitoring and analysis. In this paper, a Circulant Matrix-based Continuous Wavelet Transform (CM-CWT)-based feature extraction mechanism is contributed to minimizing the computational complexity incurred during the process of feature extraction from the input ECG signals. This proposed CM-CWT
mechanism derives the advantages of the Circulant Matrix-based Continuous Wavelet Transform and Gradient-based filtering design for achieving excellent feature extraction from ECG signals with low computational complexity. The experimental investigation of the proposed CM-CWT mechanism is
conducted using the factors of computational complexity, sensitivity, prediction accuracy and error rate for estimating its predominance over the compared DWT-HAAR and HIFEA approaches used for ECG feature extraction. The experiments of the proposed CM-CWT mechanism on an average is estimated
to reduce the error rate to the maximum of 21% compared to the existing DWT-HAAR and HIFEA approaches used for ECG feature extraction.
Power Quality Improvement in 3-Phase Power System Using Artificial Neural Network Based Hybrid Filter
Authors: Ashajyothi P. , Bhasvitha V. , Balakumar Harish , Manitha P. V. , Jain Anjana
Published: February 2020

Harmonic-distortion is a serious problem in power systems involving linear and non-linear loads. Adding a passive-filter to the system is the most popular choice to reduce issues due to harmonic distortion. Passive-filter cannot eliminate all the harmonic components. A hybrid-filter,
in which shunt active filter is serially integrated with shunt passive filter can provide better solution to the problems causing due to harmonic distortions. The paper proposes a hybrid filter with Artificial Neural Network (ANN) based control scheme. A detailed study is done by developing
a Simulink model for the proposed. Here in this paper, % Total-Harmonic-Distortion (THD) of compensated load-current is referred as a performance measure of the system. Also, a controller based on ANN is fabricated for the proposed scheme and through analysis in depth is carried out, this
controller performance is found comparatively satisfactory.
An Elliptic Curve based Key Management Scheme for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Singh Soram Ranbir , Ajoy Khan Kumar
Published: February 2020

Wireless sensor network (WSN) is a growing expertise which has been used in many areas such as airports, smart watches, smart cities, smart health organizations, and smart homes. It has provided mankind with a lot of benefits in different areas and domains. They are also used in disaster
management, habitat monitoring in forests, and many applications in hostile areas such as military; therefore, there is a need to enforce security policy. Also, in many instances of data transfer in WSNs, there is a need of stricter authentication process. Presently, authentication in WSNs
is commonly achieved through the use of usernames and passwords. A wicked attacker can impersonate to the network as a genuine user by using stolen password(s). This is chiefly due to the lack of proper key management scheme(s) currently available for WSNs. Moreover, because of limited memory
and computing power, it is problematic to decide the proper key management system for WSNs. We propose a key management scheme (KMS) for WSNs using an elliptic curve in this paper. The proposed KMS is implemented in Java SE 6(Mustang) and evaluated for critical performance by using an elliptic
curve in a WSN of varied cluster head (CH) sizes.
Light Trail Based Cost Efficient Traffic Grooming in Optical WiMAX Hybrid Network
Authors: Naik Deepa , Maity Soumyadeb , De Tanmay
Published: February 2020

Integrating Passive Optical Network (PON) and Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access network (WiMAX)achieves universal internet connectivity at a higher data rate. Here Passive Optical Networks (PONs) are used as the backbone. Base stations in WiMAX are connected to Optical
Network Units. In this work cost, routing and resource allocation related issues in hybrid networks are investigated. Light trails are used for traffic grooming. Various network topologies are used for simulation and results are obtained, compared. and analyzed. The results confirm a lower
cost solution by using hybrid networks for universal connectivity.
A Comparative Performance Analysis of Indirect Vector Controlled Induction Motor Drive Using Optimized AI Techniques
Authors: Venu Gopal B. T. , Shivakumar E. G.
Published: February 2020

This paper exhibits a point by point comparison between Neuro Fuzzy and Genetic Algorithm GA based control systems of Induction Motor drive, underlining favorable circumstances and drawbacks. Industries are advancing and upgrading generation line to enhance efficiency and quality. Induction
machines are considered by nonlinear, time varying dynamics, inaccessibility of few states and thus can be considered as a challenging issue. In this paper, a novel method using modified GA is presented to limit electric losses of Induction Motor and it is compared with Neuro Fuzzy Controller.
GA is a subordinate of AI, whose principle relies upon Darwin’s theory—struggle for existence and the survival of the fittest. The technique for deciding the gain parameters of PI controller utilizing GA whose output is utilized to control the torque applied to the Induction Motor
in this way controlling its speed. The gains of PI controller are improved with the assistance of GA to upgrade the performance of IM drive. The results are simulated in MATLAB Simulink and are related with the conventional PI controller and Adaptive Neuro Fuzzy controller (NFC). NFC is less
complicated and gives great speed precision yet GA based PI controller produces significantly reduced torque and speed ripples compared with other controllers, in this way limiting losses in IM drives.
Outcome analysis of various bearing surface materials used in total hip replacement
Authors: Chen Long , Xing Fei , Wang Yuanzheng , He Rui , He Jingming , Xu Yunwen , Wang Cheng , Li Zhuhai , Sun Zeyu , Li Yankun , Yang Jiaqi , Kong Lingchao , Li Yangyang , Sun Li
Published: February 2020

Since the first total hip replacement (THR) in 1938 by Philip Wiles, prosthesis materials and THR surgical technologies have developed rapidly. In this review, we use internationally-published research to synthesize a comprehensive analysis of the specific characteristics and clinical
outcomes of different bearing surfaces used in THR. Polyethylene, metallic alloys, and ceramic have become the three most commonly used hip prosthesis bearing surfaces after decades of hip implant development. Different bearing surface types have varying characteristics that offer specific
benefits and risks of complication. A thorough understanding of the unique properties and possible complications of each type of bearing surface is critical to surgeons tasked with selecting appropriate implant materials for total hip replacement.
The influence of hot extrusion deformation on microstructure evolution, tensile properties and corrosion behavior of Mg–3Al–0.5Mn–0.5Sr alloy
Authors: Shen Xia , Xu Tiancai , Li Boxin
Published: February 2020

A novel microalloyed Mg–3Al–0.5Mn–0.5Sr (AMJ300) alloy was designed and prepared. Then the original structure of as-cast alloy was optimized by hot extrusion. The influence of extrusion on microstructure, corrosion and tensile properties of as-cast AMJ300 alloy were
studied by OM, SEM, EDS, XRD, TEM, electrochemical workstation and tensile tests. The results indicated that α-Mg, Al8Mn5 and Al4Sr phases constitute the AMJ300 alloy. Furthermore, the microstructure of alloy was further refined after extrusion,
which indicates that the microstructural evolution during extrusion was governed by dynamic recrystallization. The fine and close of structure and the morphology change of intermetallic compounds greatly improved the corrosion resistance of AMJ300 alloy. The results of corrosion rate, corrosion
current and corrosion morphology showed that the corrosion resistance of as-cast alloy could be significantly improved by extrusion. The main corrosion products of AMJ300 alloy in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution was Mg(OH)2. After extrusion, the tensile properties of AMJ300 alloy was significantly
improved. The tensile strength reached 349 MPa, the yield strength reached 229 MPa, and the elongation reached 13.2%. Compared with the as-cast alloy, the tensile strength, the yield strength and the elongation increased by 218.1%, 248.9% and 173.7% respectively
An Initial Analysis of the Effects of a Long-Term Care Insurance on Equity and Efficiency: A Case Study of Qingdao City in China
Authors: Yang Wei , Chang Shuang , Zhang Wenbo , Wang Ruobing , Mossialos Elias , Wu Xun , Cui Dan , Li Hao , Mi Hong
Published: February 2020

Finding a suitable mechanism to finance long-term care (LTC) is a pressing policy concern for many countries. Using Qingdao city in China as a case study, this article presents an initial assessment of a newly piloted LTC insurance by evaluating its effects on equity and efficiency in financing. Drawing data from 47 in-depth interviews conducted in 2016, this study found that there remain sizable disparities in financial burden among insurance participants, despite an emphasis on ensuring equitable access to care. Although the insurance brought cost savings to the health care sector, the LTC providers are incentivized to provide care at the least cost, even when such care is deemed inadequate due to the fixed payment for their services. This article offers critical insights into the potentials and challenges of applying the LTC insurance model in a developing country, where critical lessons can be drawn for public LTC insurance in other countries.
Clinical Efficacy of Stent in Patients with Cervical Esophageal and/or Hypopharyngeal Stenosis after Total Laryngectomy
Authors: Zhao GuoRui , Ren JianZhuang , Duan XuHua , Zhang WenGuang , Li FangZheng , Han XinWei
Published: February 2020

We retrospectively analyzed 17 patients with esophageal stent who underwent cervical esophageal and/or hypopharyngeal stenosis after total laryngectomy (TL) from January 2014 to January 2018. The success rate of stent implantation was 100%. Dysphagia in 16 patients improved to class 0 or 1 (16/17, 94.12%) after stent implantation and in 1 patient was improved to class 2 (1/17, 5.88%). Two patients died of tumor progression at 7 months and 11 months after stent implantation, respectively, but both could eat semi‐solid/solid food before death. Dysphagia was resolved in the remaining 15 patients, and there was no recurrence of dysphagia including feeding obstruction during follow‐up. Therefore, this case series concludes that the esophageal stent position after TL can be much higher than that of patients with normal pharyngeal structures. Esophageal stent implantation is a feasible and effective treatment for patients with laryngopharyngeal/esophageal stenosis following TL.
Systemic exosomal miR-193b-3p delivery attenuates neuroinflammation in early brain injury after subarachnoid hemorrhage in mice
Authors: Lai Niansheng , Wu Degang , Liang Tianyu , Pan Pengjie , Yuan Guiqiang , Li Xiang , Li Haiying , Shen Haitao , Wang Zhong , Chen Gang
Published: February 2020

Background

Inflammation is a potential crucial factor in the pathogenesis of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in the regulation of diverse aspects of neuronal dysfunction. The therapeutic potential of miRNAs has been demonstrated in several CNS disorders and is thought to involve modulation of neuroinflammation. Here, we found that peripherally injected modified exosomes (Exos) delivered miRNAs to the brains of mice with SAH and that the potential mechanism was regulated by regulation of neuroinflammation.

Methods

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) and qRT-PCR were used to define the global miRNA profile of plasma exosomes in aSAH patients and healthy controls. We peripherally injected RVG/Exos/miR-193b-3p to achieve delivery of miR-193b-3p to the brain of mice with SAH. The effects of miR-193b-3p on SAH were assayed using a neurological score, brain water content, blood-brain barrier (BBB) injury, and Fluoro-Jade C (FJC) staining. Western blotting analysis, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and qRT-PCR were used to measure various proteins and mRNA levels.

Results

NGS and qRT-PCR revealed that four circulating exosomal miRNAs were differentially expressed. RVG/Exos exhibited improved targeting to the brains of SAH mice. MiR-193b-3p suppressed the expression and activity of HDAC3, upregulating the acetylation of NF-κB p65. Finally, miR-193b-3p treatment mitigated the neurological behavioral impairment, brain edema, BBB injury, and neurodegeneration induced by SAH, and reduced inflammatory cytokine expression in the brains of mice after SAH.

Conclusions

Exos/miR-193b-3p treatment attenuated the inflammatory response by acetylation of the NF-κB p65 via suppressed expression and activity of HDAC3. These effects alleviated neurobehavioral impairments and neuroinflammation following SAH.
Astroglial TLR9 antagonism promotes chemotaxis and alternative activation of macrophages via modulation of astrocyte-derived signals: implications for spinal cord injury
Authors: Li Lun , Ni Li , Heary Robert F. , Elkabes Stella
Published: February 2020

Background

The recruitment of immune system cells into the central nervous system (CNS) has a profound effect on the outcomes of injury and disease. Glia-derived chemoattractants, including chemokines, play a pivotal role in this process. In addition, cytokines and chemokines influence the phenotype of infiltrating immune cells. Depending on the stimuli present in the local milieu, infiltrating macrophages acquire the classically activated M1 or alternatively activated M2 phenotypes. The polarization of macrophages into detrimental M1 versus beneficial M2 phenotypes significantly influences CNS pathophysiology. Earlier studies indicated that a toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) antagonist modulates astrocyte-derived cytokine and chemokine release. However, it is not known whether these molecular changes affect astrocyte-induced chemotaxis and polarization of macrophages. The present studies were undertaken to address these issues.

Methods

The chemotaxis and polarization of mouse peritoneal macrophages by spinal cord astrocytes were evaluated in a Transwell co-culture system. Arrays and ELISA were utilized to quantify chemokines in the conditioned medium (CM) of pure astrocyte cultures. Immunostaining for M1- and M2-specific markers characterized the macrophage phenotype. The percentage of M2 macrophages at the glial scar was determined by stereological approaches in mice sustaining a mid-thoracic spinal cord contusion injury (SCI) and intrathecally treated with oligodeoxynucleotide 2088 (ODN 2088), the TLR9 antagonist. Statistical analyses used two-tailed independent-sample t-test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey’s post hoc test. A p value < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

Results

ODN 2088-treated astrocytes significantly increased the chemotaxis of peritoneal macrophages via release of chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 1 (CCL1). Vehicle-treated astrocytes polarized macrophages into the M2 phenotype and ODN 2088-treated astrocytes promoted further M2 polarization. Reduced CCL2 and CCL9 release by astrocytes in response to ODN 2088 facilitated the acquisition of the M2 phenotype, suggesting that CCL2 and CCL9 are negative regulators of M2 polarization. The percentage of M2 macrophages at the glial scar was higher in mice sustaining a SCI and receiving ODN 2088 treatment as compared to vehicle-treated injured controls.

Conclusions

TLR9 antagonism could create a favorable environment during SCI by supporting M2 macrophage polarization and chemotaxis via modulation of astrocyte-to-macrophage signals.
Perspectives on the prospective development of stroke-specific lower extremity wearable monitoring technology: a qualitative focus group study with physical therapists and individuals with stroke
Authors: Louie Dennis R. , Bird Marie-Louise , Menon Carlo , Eng Janice J.
Published: February 2020

Background

Wearable activity monitors that track step count can increase the wearer’s physical activity and motivation but are infrequently designed for the slower gait speed and compensatory patterns after stroke. New and available technology may allow for the design of stroke-specific wearable monitoring devices, capable of detecting more than just step counts, which may enhance how rehabilitation is delivered. The objective of this study was to identify important considerations in the development of stroke-specific lower extremity wearable monitoring technology for rehabilitation, from the perspective of physical therapists and individuals with stroke.

Methods

A qualitative research design with focus groups was used to collect data. Five focus groups were conducted, audio recorded, and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed using content analysis to generate overarching categories representing the stakeholder considerations for the development of stroke-specific wearable monitor technology for the lower extremity.

Results

A total of 17 physical therapists took part in four focus group discussions and three individuals with stroke participated in the fifth focus group. Our analysis identified four main categories for consideration: 1) ‘Variability’ described the heterogeneity of patient presentation, therapy approaches, and therapeutic goals that are taken into account for stroke rehabilitation; 2) ‘Context of use’ described the different settings and purposes for which stakeholders could foresee employing stroke-specific wearable technology; 3) ‘Crucial design features’ identified the measures, functions, and device characteristics that should be considered for incorporation into prospective technology to enhance uptake; and 4) ‘Barriers to adopting technology’ highlighted challenges, including personal attitudes and design flaws, that may limit the integration of current and future wearable monitoring technology into clinical practice.

Conclusions

The findings from this qualitative study suggest that the development of stroke-specific lower extremity wearable monitoring technology is viewed positively by physical therapists and individuals with stroke. While a single, specific device or function may not accommodate all the variable needs of therapists and their clients, it was agreed that wearable monitoring technology could enhance how physical therapists assess and treat their clients. Future wearable devices should be developed in consideration of the highlighted design features and potential barriers for uptake.
Effects of co-infection on the clinical outcomes of Clostridium difficile infection
Authors: Shafiq Muhammad , Alturkmani Hani , Zafar Yousaf , Mittal Vishal , Lodhi Hafsa , Ullah Waqas , Brewer Joseph
Published: February 2020

Background

Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) is a spore-forming, Gram-positive rod that is known to be associated with antibiotic use. It is one of the leading causes of nosocomial diarrhea in the industrialized world and therefore warrants further study of its nature. It isn’t clear if co-infection by other organisms can affect the outcome of C. difficile infection (CDI).

Methods

A single center retrospective study was done and it used inclusion criteria of 18 years of age and being tested positive for CDI on FilmArray® multiplex gastro-intestinal (GI) panel. Exclusion criteria were a GI panel performed on an outpatient basis, recurrent CDI, and the presence of end-stage renal disease, cirrhosis, or a non-GI infection. The stool sample for all patients were collected within 48 h of presentation to the hospital. There were 235 of 2576 GI panels selected for a retrospective chart review based on the above criteria. Among these 235 patients, 38 had a co-infection (CDI+ another GI infection = group A or cases) and the rest had only CDI (group B or controls). Group A was compared with group B for CDI severity, its response to treatment, recurrence, and length of the hospital stay, using 0.05 as the alpha criterion.

Results

Most patients with CDI were female and above the age of 60 years. Co infection did not increase the severity of CDI based both on the American College of Gastroenterology criteria (p 0.16) as well as Infectious Disease Society of America criteria (p 0.77). Co infection group also didn’t have significantly different CDI related treatment failure rate (p 0.23), or CDI recurrence rate (p 0.49). Co-infection was also not associated with lengthier hospital stay (p 0.41).

Conclusion

Our study suggests that co-infection doesn’t affect the severity of CDI or can cause treatment failures. Additionally, there was no significant increase in hospital stay, or increase in CDI recurrence associated with co-infection. Therefore, if CDI is the leading clinical diagnosis and a patient is tested positive for co-infection in addition to CDI on FilmArray® multiplex GI panel, this co-infection shouldn’t change the management for CDI. Limitations of this study (including retrospective nature of the study, small sample size, single site study, not including all microbiome and non-inclusion of race) should also be taken into account, while considering the applicability of the results of this study.