bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research and Implementation of Electronic Commerce Intelligent Recommendation System Based on the Fuzzy Rough Set and Improved Cellular Algorithm
Authors: Peng Bo
Published: January 2021

With the continuous development of e-commerce, our society has transitioned from a mechanical era to an intelligent era. There have been many things that have subverted people’s traditional concepts, and they have also completely changed the way of life of modern people. Due to the development of e-commerce, people can enjoy the scenery and food from all over the world at home. Online shopping and online ticket purchase have greatly facilitated people’s lives and given people more choices. However, due to the excessive selection of things, there is also a phenomenon of information overload. Sometimes, it is difficult for people to find a product or content that they are very satisfied with. So, how to analyze people’s browsing behavior and predict what kind of content people want and how to push products on major websites have become a major issue facing major online companies. Based on this, this paper proposes an e-commerce intelligent recommendation technology based on the fuzzy rough set and improved cellular algorithm. It provides personalized recommendations for users based on their browsing history and purchase history. The research of this article is mainly divided into four parts. The first part is to analyze the status quo of technical research in this field. By analyzing the shortcomings of the existing technology, the concept of this article is proposed. The second part introduces the classic intelligent recommendation algorithm, including the principle and process of the fuzzy rough set and improved honeycomb algorithm, and analyzes the difference of various recommendation algorithms to illustrate the adaptability of each algorithm in practical applications and their respective advantages and disadvantages. The third part introduces an intelligent recommendation system based on fuzzy clustering, comprehensively analyzes the characteristics of users and commodities, makes full use of users’ evaluation information of commodities, and realizes intelligent recommendation based on content and collaborative filtering. At the end of the article, through comparative analysis experiments, the superiority of the intelligent recommendation system for electronic commerce based on the fuzzy rough set and improved cellular algorithm is further proved, and the accuracy of intelligent recommendation is improved.
Neural Cryptography Based on Generalized Tree Parity Machine for Real-Life Systems
Authors: Jeong Sooyong , Park Cheolhee , Hong Dowon , Seo Changho , Jho Namsu
Published: February 2021

Traditional public key exchange protocols are based on algebraic number theory. In another perspective, neural cryptography, which is based on neural networks, has been emerging. It has been reported that two parties can exchange secret key pairs with the synchronization phenomenon in neural networks. Although there are various models of neural cryptography, called Tree Parity Machine (TPM), many of them are not suitable for practical use, considering efficiency and security. In this paper, we propose a Vector-Valued Tree Parity Machine (VVTPM), which is a generalized architecture of TPM models and can be more efficient and secure for real-life systems. In terms of efficiency and security, we show that the synchronization time of the VVTPM has the same order as the basic TPM model, and it can be more secure than previous results with the same synaptic depth.
MIE-NSCT: Adaptive MRI Enhancement Based on Nonsubsampled Contourlet Transform
Authors: Liu Caiwei , Zhao Guohua , Dong Jiale , Lin Yusong , Wang Meiyun
Published: January 2021

Image enhancement technology is often used to improve the quality of medical images and helps doctors or expert systems identify and diagnose diseases. This paper aimed at the characteristics of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with complex and difficult-to-enhance details and to propose a nonsubsampled contourlet transform- (NSCT-) based enhancement algorithm called MIE-NSCT. NSCT was used for MRI sub-band decomposition. For high-pass sub-bands, four fuzzy rules were proposed to enhance multiscale and multidirectional edge contour details from adjacent eight directions, whilst for low-pass sub-bands, a new adaptive histogram enhancement algorithm was proposed. The problem of noise amplification and loss of details during the enhancement process was solved. The algorithm was verified on the public dataset BraTS2017 and compared with other advanced methods. Experimental results showed that MIE-NSCT had obvious advantages in improving the quality of medical images, and high-quality medical images showed enhanced performance in grading tumour. MIE-NSCT is suitable for integration into an interactive expert system to provide support for the visualization of disease diagnosis.
Clinical Characteristics and Prognostic Analysis of Multiple Myeloma with Extramedullary Disease: A SEER-Based Study
Authors: Li Guang , Song Yan-Ping , Lv Yao , Li Zhen-Zhen , Zheng Yan-Hua
Published: January 2021

Background. Extramedullary disease (EMD), an infrequent manifestation of multiple myeloma (MM), can present at diagnosis or develop during the disease course. EMD can be clinically divided into bone-related EMD (EMD-B) and soft tissue-related EMD (EMD-S). The purpose of our study is to investigate the clinical characteristics, survival outcomes, and prognostic factors of MM patients with EMD. Methods. A total of 155 MM patients with EMD were ultimately enrolled in our study by retrieving the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. The Kaplan–Meier survival curves and log-rank test for overall survival (OS) and myeloma-specific survival (MSS) were conducted to compare each potential variable. Variables with a

p

value <0.1 in the univariate Cox regression were incorporated into the multivariate Cox model to determine the independent prognostic factors, with a hazard ratio (HR) >1 representing adverse prognostic factors. Results. The median age at diagnosis was 63 years old. EMD-B occurred in 99 patients (63.90%), while EMD-S occurred in 56 cases (36.10%). Patients with EMD-S had a significant survival disadvantage in MSS (HR = 1.844, 95% CI 1.117–3.042,

p

 = 0.017) and OS (HR = 1.853, 95% CI 1.166–2.942,

p

 = 0.009) compared to those with EMD-B. Patients with EMD interval ≤24 months were at higher risk of death than those with EMD at diagnosis in MSS (HR = 1.885, 95% CI 1.175–3.346,

p

 = 0.042) and in OS (HR = 1.33, 95% CI 1.119–2.529,

p

 = 0.036). Patients with EMD interval >24 months were at a lower risk of death as opposed to those with EMD at diagnosis. Conclusion. Age at MM diagnosis, site of EMD, and time interval from diagnosis to EMD occurrence were independent prognostic factors in MM patients with EMD. EMD-B bore a better prognosis than EMD-S.
Discrete Element Simulation Analysis of the Bending and Toppling Failure Mechanisms of High Rock Slopes
Authors: Meng Zhigang , Hou Yongli , Guo Longji , Wang Fengnian , Liu Kuiming , Qi Gan , Ma Juan
Published: January 2021

The high rock slope situated in the Southwest stope of Taiping Mining, Inner Mongolia, is subject to dumping failure due to its instability. The dumping body rock layer of this stope shows obvious bending and lowering of the head. The overturning angle of the rock strata can reach 46°, and tension dislocation along the rock joint can be observed in exposed sections and at the bedding and lithologic interface. The sliding surface also displays a broken line morphology. Through evaluation of regional rock integrity parameters and rock soft and hard parameters, rock-mass strength based on Hoek Brown strength estimation criteria can be developed. Based on the discrete element method, the geological model of layered excavation of the thin layer slope can be constructed. Combined with indoor and outdoor assessments, the characteristics of toppling deformation of the thin layer open-air slope can be studied and summarized. In this study, simulation analysis showed that under first excavation conditions, a crack-, dump-, and antislip zone was formed. The rock in the crack zone formed a “<”-shaped fracture along the slope surface that was squeezed towards the bottom of the slope. In the lower dumping area, the deflection angle gradually increased with excavation, and the deformation range and levels in the antislip area increased with excavation. Following the third excavation, the antisliding zone disappeared and the toppling line changed from a broken line to a straight line. In the final state, the slope collapsed as a whole, with the collapse of the dumping body penetrating the top to the foot of the slope.
Magnetohydrodynamic Fluid Flow due to an Unsteady Stretching Sheet with Thermal Radiation, Porous Medium, and Variable Heat Flux
Authors: Megahed Ahmed M. , Ghoneim Nourhan I. , Reddy M. Gnaneswara , El-Khatib Mostafa
Published: January 2021

A shooting method has been introduced for determining the numerical solution of the ordinary differential equations which describe the Newtonian magnetohydrodynamic laminar fluid flow due to an unsteady stretching sheet together with the presence of thermal radiation and variable heat flux. The variable viscosity and variable conductivity are taken into consideration. Absence of magnetic field in some studies restricts the development of the energy-efficient heat transfer mechanism as is desired in numerous applications. The present study encompasses parameters such as unsteadiness parameter, porous parameter, viscosity parameter, magnetic number, radiation parameter, and conductivity parameter. It has been consummated that the proposed model is superior to other existing models for the industrial fluid.
Research on the Construction of Supply Chain Management for Undergraduate Programs at Chinese Applied Universities
Authors: Li Yanhui , Wei Yating , Yao Qi , Li Mengsiying
Published: January 2021

At present, China regards supply chain innovation and application as a new national strategy, which leads to a large demand for applied supply chain professionals. In order to provide useful references for applied universities that have already set up the supply chain management (SCM) program and promote the healthy development of Chinaʼs application-oriented SCM for undergraduates, this paper discussed the necessity and feasibility of setting up the SCM program in Chinese universities. In addition, it analyzes the current situation of SCM programs from three aspects involving approval, type of universities, and issues of application-oriented undergraduate. Based on practical experience in specialty development, in this paper, specific measures were shown from three dimensions: requirements of knowledge, ability, and quality, curriculum setting, and teaching material design.
Novel Human-Centered Robotics: Towards an Automated Process for Neurorehabilitation
Authors: Parre Meenakshi Devi , Sujatha B.
Published: January 2021

The global requirement of patient rehabilitation has surged with time due to the growing number of accidents, injuries, age-related issues, and other aspects. Parallelly, the cost of treatment and patient care also increased in a manifold. Moreover, constant monitoring and support for the patients having physical disabilities have become an ongoing challenge to the medical system. Robotics-based neurorehabilitation has reduced the human error while assisting such patients, precisely interpreting the signals, and communicating to the patient. Gradual precise application and improvement of the technology with time yielded a novel direction for patient care and support. The interdisciplinary contribution of many advanced technical branches allowed us to develop robotics-based assistance with high precision for the upper limb and the lower limb impairments. The present review summarizes the generation and background of robotic implementation for patient support, progress, present status, and future requirements.
Dental Management of a Patient with Special Health Care Needs
Authors: da Mata Leopoldo Lucio , Rodrigues da Cunha Ana Maria Schroden , Moronte Andrezza Morais
Published: February 2021

Patients with special health care needs (PSHCN) may have an increased risk of oral disease throughout the course of their life and require particular delivery of dental care due to their medical condition or limitations. The purpose is to report the dental management of a patient with Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS), which was classified as PSHCN due to physical, behavioural, cognitive, and emotional impairment. A 14-year-old female with a clinical diagnosis of CdLS and its common craniofacial features such as microcephaly, short neck, synophrys, arched eyebrows, downturned angle of the mouth, high arched palate, micrognathia, and microdontia was referred to the hospital where the dental treatment was performed under general anesthesia. Multiple tooth extraction, fillings, and coronary polishing were performed. During the follow-up, we observed that dental restorations were clinically satisfactory and there was an improvement in the patient’s behaviour during dental treatment. Managing and shaping behaviour of such patients are crucial to delivering quality dental care, as they require specialized care due to their behavioural and clinical conditions.
Multiphase Trajectory Generation for Planar Biped Robot Using Direct Collocation Method
Authors: Liu Yubin , Heng Shuai , Zang Xizhe , Lin Zhenkun , Zhao Jie
Published: January 2021

Stability and energy efficiency are the main focuses in the bipedal robot field. In this paper, we apply a multiphase gait, which is different from the widely used two-phase gait, to improve the stability at the moment, when a biped robot transfers from the double support phase to the single support phase. Then, we create dynamic equations with contact forces in each phase using Lagrangian formulation. Furthermore, the direct collocation method is utilized to generate the optimal trajectory toward both stability and energy efficiency. Finally, the comparison between multiphase gait and two-phase gait is performed with numerical simulations. The results prove that multiphase gait increases the stability margin in the cost of slightly decreasing energy efficiency. Besides, both gaits show a similar human-like characteristic in hip height variation during walking.
Renal Protective Effect of Beluga Lentil Pretreatment for Ischemia‐Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Lee Syng-ook , Chun So Young , Lee EunHye , Kim Bomi , Yoon BoHyun , Gil Haejung , Kim Dae Hwan , Jang Byung Ik , Lee Dong Woo , Yoo Eun Sang , Park Dong Jin , Lee Jun Nyung , Han Man-Hoon , Kim Bum Soo , Song Phil Hyun , Kwon Tae Gyun , Ha Yun-Sok
Published: January 2021

Background and Aim. Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury, caused by acute kidney damage, causes histopathological alterations, tubule cell apoptosis, inflammation, oxidation, and the loss of renal function. We evaluated the protective effects against I/R injury of beluga lentil pretreatment. Materials and Methods. Mice were divided into four groups: normal, untreated, low‐ (2 mg), and high‐dose (8 mg) beluga lentil treatment groups. Beluga lentil was orally administered for 2 weeks, followed by bilateral renal ischemia for 20 min and reperfusion for 30 min. Blood samples and kidney tissues were collected and analyzed to investigate renal function, histopathology, epithelial and endothelial cell damage, apoptosis, oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses. Results. The pretreated groups maintained renal function, with significantly lower blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels, compared with the other groups. The histopathological analysis showed reduced proximal tubule injury and decreased injury‐related molecule (kidney injury molecule 1 (KIM‐1) and neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (NGAL)) secretion in the pretreated groups compared with the other groups. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick‐end labeling‐ (TUNEL‐) positive cells and the secretion of apoptosis‐related molecules (Fas and caspase 3) were significantly reduced in the pretreated groups compared with the other groups. The pretreated groups showed positive microvessel‐associated gene (cluster of differentiation (CD31)) expression and negative adhesion molecule (intracellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM‐1)) expression. An antioxidant effect was observed in the pretreatment groups, with reduced malonaldehyde (MDA) expression and increased antioxidant enzyme (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx)) secretion. In the pretreated groups, F4/80+ macrophages and CD4+ T cell infiltration were inhibited and proinflammatory cytokine (interleukin‐ (IL‐) 1β, IL‐6, and tumor necrosis factor‐ (TNF‐) α) levels decreased; however, the levels of anti‐inflammatory cytokines (transforming growth factor‐ (TGF‐) β, IL‐10, and IL‐22) increased. Conclusions. Beluga lentil pretreatment demonstrated protective effects against I/R‐induced renal damage, via antiapoptotic, anti‐inflammatory, and antioxidant activities.
The Implication of Channel Discrepancy in a Dual‐Channel Supply Chain
Authors: Pi Zhenyang , Fang Weiguo
Published: January 2021

This paper studies the implication of channel discrepancy between the retail and direct channels in a dual‐channel supply chain consisting of one common retailer and two manufacturers in which the manufacturers may have different market powers. Each manufacturer provides a substitutable product and opens an online channel to customers directly. We develop an analytical model to derive the optimal pricing strategies by using game theory and the backward induction method, and we examine related properties under three market power structures while considering channel discrepancy, including the Nash equilibrium, the Manufacturers leader Stackelberg, and the M1 leader Stackelberg models (denoted as the N, MS, and M1S models, respectively). Numerical simulations are examined to reveal and verify the effect of channel discrepancy on optimal prices, demands, and profits. We find that a higher level of channel discrepancy induces higher prices, demands, and profits for each member in both channels, while this kind of stimulating impact for the leader manufacturer who obtains a higher level of channel discrepancy will be more significant than it is for the other members in the three models. In addition, the profit of the supply chain in the N model is always higher than it is in the MS model, while it may be higher or lower than it is in the M1S model depending on the level of channel discrepancy.
Multimodal Imaging of Lamellar Macular Holes
Authors: dell’Omo Roberto , Filippelli Mariaelena , De Turris Serena , Govetto Andrea , Napolitano Pasquale , Ermanno dell’Omo  , Costagliola Ciro
Published: January 2021

Evolution of imaging techniques has renewed interest in the diagnosis of lamellar macular hole (LMH) and greatly implemented the possibilities of gaining more detailed insights into its pathogenesis. Among noninvasive techniques, optical coherence tomography (OCT) is considered the primary examination modality to study LMHs, given its ability to image foveal structure and its widespread availability. OCT also allows to resolve the epiretinal materials associated with LMH, i.e., tractional epiretinal membranes (ERMs) and epiretinal proliferation (EP). En face OCT reconstructions are useful to confirm the foveal abnormalities shown by the eyes with LMH, whereas OCT angiography may reveal alterations of the size and shape of the foveal avascular zone and alterations of the density of the superficial and deep vascular plexuses. On slit-lamp biomicroscopy or fundus camera examination, LMH appears as a round or oval, reddish lesion at the center of the macula, slightly darker than the surrounding retina. The associated tractional ERM, causing wrinkling and glistening of the retinal surface, is usually readily appreciable, whereas EP is hardly apparent on biomicroscopy or fundus photography since the retina surface appears smooth. When imaged with blue fundus autofluorescence (B-FAF) imaging, LMHs are characterized by an increased autofluorescent signal, the intensity of which does not correlate with the thickness of the residual outer retinal tissue. Green reflectance and blue reflectance (BR) images clearly show the increased reflection and wrinkling of the retinal surface caused by tractional ERM associated with LMH. BR and multicolor imaging enable the visualization of EP associated with LMH in the form of a sharply demarcated dark area and in the form of a yellowish area surrounding the hole, respectively. Scarce data regarding invasive imaging techniques, such as fluorescein angiography, for the study of LMH are available in the literature. The aim of this review is to evaluate the contribution that each imaging modality can provide to study the morphologic characteristics of LMH.
Neuroprotective Effects of ZiBuPiYin Recipe on db/db Mice via PI3K-Akt Signaling Pathway by Activating Grb2
Authors: Ren Wei-ming , Weng Ze-bin , Li Xin , Zhan Li-bin
Published: January 2021

Background. Diabetes-associated cognitive decline (DACD) is one of the nervous system dysfunctions induced by diabetes mellitus with cognitive impairment as the major symptom. In a previous preliminary proteomic study, we found that endoplasmic reticulum processing and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway might be impaired in DACD pathogenesis. In addition, growth factor receptor-bound protein 2 might be a crucial protein as a molecular target of the neuroprotective effects of ZiBuPiYin recipe (ZBPYR). Methods. In this study, 6-8 weeks aged db/db mice were treated with excipients or ZBPYR for 6 weeks. Body weight and RBG were recorded weekly. Oral glucose tolerance and insulin tolerance tests were used to assess insulin sensitivity. Morris water maze (MWM) tests were used to assess memory function. The expression of Grb2, Gab2, Akt, and GSK3β in mouse hippocampus and cerebral cortex were analyzed by Western blotting. Results. ZBPYR not only significantly reduced RGB and improved glucose tolerance and insulin resistance, but also improved spatial cognition in DACD mice. The expression of Grb2 and Gab2 in hippocampus and cerebral cortex of db/db mice was upregulated after treated with ZBPYR, and then affected the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, and inhibited GSK3β overactivity. Conclusions. This study showed that ZBPYR could enhance the memory and learning ability of db/db mice. Such neuroprotective effect might be related to the activation of Grb2-PI3K/Akt signaling which might provide a novel therapeutic target for the clinical treatment of DACD.
Numerical Study on Soft Coal Pillar Stability in an Island Longwall Panel
Authors: Xu Qingyun , Bai Jian-Biao , Yan Shuai , Wang Rui , Wu Shaoxu
Published: January 2021

Roadway support and management of longwall panels in an island soft coal panel are always difficult work. In a test mine, stress distribution, deformation characteristic, and plastic zone distribution around the roadway and coal pillars in the development and mining periods were investigated with respect to the widths of different coal pillars using theoretical and simulation methods. The most reasonable width of coal pillars was comprehensively determined, and the field test was conducted successfully. The results show that a reasonable width of coal pillars is 7.0–8.2 m using the analytical method. The distribution of vertical stress in the coal pillars showed an asymmetric “double‐hump” shape, in which the range of abutment pressure was about 26.0–43.0 m, and the roadway should be laid away from stress concentration. When the coal pillar width is 5.0–7.0 m, deformation of the roadway is half that with 8.0–10.0 m coal pillar in the development and mining period. The plastic zone in the surrounding rock firstly decreases and increases with increasing coal pillar width; the smallest range occurs with a coal pillar width of 5.0 m. Finally, a reasonable width for coal pillars in an island panel was determined to be 5.0 m. Industrial practice indicated that a coal pillar width of 5.0 m efficiently controlled deformation of the surrounding rock, which was an important basis for choosing the width of coal pillars around gob‐side entries in island longwall panels with similar geological conditions.
The Effect of Ultrasonic Treatments on Current Transport Processes in Al‐Al2O3‐p‐CdTe‐Mo Structure
Authors: Uteniyazov A. K. , Leyderman A. Y. , Gafurova M. V. , Juraev Kh. N. , Dauletov K. A.
Published: January 2021

It was established that ultrasonic treatments (USTs) have practically no effect on the patterns of current flow in the Al‐Al2O3‐p‐CdTe‐Mo structure in the forward direction, namely, as in the absence of ultrasonic action, they appear in the sequence J∼V, J∼V2, J∼V5.3, and J∼V2. The effect of ultrasonic treatments affects only the magnitude of the flowing current; at low voltages, the current becomes somewhat larger, and at high voltages, it practically does not change. Changes in the magnitude of the flowing current are explained on the basis of the assumption that the recombination of nonequilibrium carriers in such a structure occurs through complex pair recombination complexes and, as a result of ultrasonic treatments, the number of both small acceptors and deep recombination centers increases.
Effects of Running Surface Stiffness on Three-Segment Foot Kinematics Responses with Different Shod Conditions
Authors: Abdul Yamin Noor Arifah Azwani , Basaruddin Khairul Salleh , Salleh Ahmad Faizal , Salim Mohammad Shahril , Wan Muhamad Wan Zuki Azman
Published: January 2021

Objective. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of surface stiffness on multisegment foot kinematics and temporal parameters during running. Methods. Eighteen male subjects ran on three different surfaces (i.e., concrete, artificial grass, and rubber) in both heeled running shoes (HS) and minimal running shoes (MS). Both these shoes had dissimilar sole profiles. The heeled shoes had a higher sole at the heel, a thick base, and arch support, whereas the minimal shoes had a flat base sole. Indeed, the studied biomechanical parameters responded differently in the different footwear during running. Subjects ran in recreational mode speed while 3D foot kinematics (i.e., joint rotation and peak medial longitudinal arch (MLA) angle) were determined using a motion capture system (Qualysis, Gothenburg, Sweden). Information on stance time and plantar fascia strain (PFS) was also collected. Results. Running on different surface stiffness was found to significantly affect the peak MLA angles and stance times for both HS and MS conditions. However, the results showed that the joint rotation angles were not sensitive to surface stiffness. Also, PFS showed no relationship with surface stiffness, as the results were varied as the surface stiffness was changed. Conclusion. The surface stiffness significantly contributed towards the effects of peak MLA angle and stance time. These findings may enhance the understanding of biomechanical responses on various running surfaces stiffness in different shoe conditions.
An Updated Review on the Secondary Metabolites and Biological Activities of Aspergillus ruber and Aspergillus flavus and Exploring the Cytotoxic Potential of Their Isolated Compounds Using Virtual Screening
Authors: Youssef Fadia S. , Singab Abdel Nasser B.
Published: January 2021

The secondary metabolites and biological activities of Aspergillus ruber and Aspergillus flavus were comprehensively reported. About 70 compounds were isolated from both species that belong to different classes using conventional and advanced chromatographic techniques and unambiguously elucidated employing one- and two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance (1D and 2D NMR) and high resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). Some of them displayed promising antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. In silico studies were conducted on human cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK-2), human DNA topoisomerase II (TOP-2), and matrix metalloprotinase 13 (MMP-13) in an effort to explore the cytotoxic potential of the diverse compounds obtained from both Aspergillus species. 1,6,8-Trihydroxy-4-benzoyloxy-3-methylanthraquinone (23) revealed the most firm fitting with the active pockets of CDK-2 and MMP-13; meanwhile, variecolorin H alkaloid (14) showed the highest fitting within TOP-2 with ∆G equals to −36.51 kcal/mole. Thus, fungal metabolites could offer new drug entities for combating cancer. Relevant data about both Aspergillus species up to August 2020 were gathered from various databases comprising Scifinder (https://scifinder.cas.org/scifinder/login) for secondary metabolite-related studies; meanwhile, for biology-related articles, data were collected from both PubMed (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/) and Web of Knowledge (http://www.webofknowledge.com) as well.
Path Planning and Trajectory Tracking Strategy of Autonomous Vehicles
Authors: Han Peng , Zhang Bingyu
Published: January 2021

With the development of global urbanization and the construction of regional urbanization, residents around urban cities are increasingly making demands on urban public transportation system. A new kind of modern public transportation vehicle named Multi-Articulated Guided Vehicle based on Virtual Track (MAAV-VT) with the advantages of beautiful, smart energy conservation and environmental protection is proposed in this paper, which aims at optimizing the public transportation system between and within urban areas. Therefore, concentrating on the general design and control strategy, the main contents of this paper are as follows. At first, the design concepts and key technologies of MAAV-VT are introduced. It is the fusion of urban rail transit operation mode and advanced automotive technologies, which have the characteristics of 100% low-floor, medium to high velocity, medium to big capacity, and low construction cost. Then, as the core subsystem, to guarantee the properties of self-guiding and trajectory tracking of the new vehicle, this paper is focused on the control system based on the dynamics and kinematics model of the whole multi-articulated vehicle. The multi-trace-points cooperative trajectory tracking control strategy on the basis of the circulation of feasible path generation method is proposed and the lateral controller is designed for trajectory tracking. The process of feasible path generation is conducted once the tracking error exceeded. A simulation platform is built considering the mechanical properties of each vehicle element and the characteristic of articulated mechanism. Finally, the function of control system is validated. The tracking error of each vehicle elements would be reduced to make sure the whole multi-articulated vehicle moves along the preset virtual track.
Autism Spectrum Disorder: Investigating Predictive Adaptive Behavior Skill Deficits in Young Children
Authors: Feige Emma , Mattingly Rhonda , Pitts Teresa , Smith Alan F.
Published: January 2021

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder that consists of difficulties with social communication and language, as well as the presence of restricted and repetitive behaviors. These deficits tend to present in early childhood and usually lead to impairments in functioning across various settings. Moreover, these deficits have been shown to negatively impact adaptive behavior and functioning. Thus, early diagnosis and intervention is vital for future success within this population. The purpose of this study was to further examine the subscales that comprise the adaptive behavior section of the Bayley®-III to determine which of the ten subscales are predictive of ASD in young children (i.e., ≤ three years of age). A retrospective file review of 273 children participating in Kentucky’s early intervention program, First Steps, was completed. The children ranged in age from 18 to 35 months. A binary logistic regression was used to assess the subscales that comprise the adaptive behavior of the section of the Bayley®-III to determine which of the ten subscales are predictive of ASD in young children (i.e., ≤ three years of age). The results indicated that individual lower raw scores in communication, community use, functional preacademics, home living, health and safety, leisure, self-care, self-direction, and social subscales were predictive of an autism diagnosis.
The Current Evidence Levels for Biofeedback and Neurofeedback Interventions in Treating Depression: A Narrative Review
Authors: Melnikov Mikhail Ye.
Published: February 2021

This article is aimed at showing the current level of evidence for the usage of biofeedback and neurofeedback to treat depression along with a detailed review of the studies in the field and a discussion of rationale for utilizing each protocol. La Vaque et al. criteria endorsed by the Association for Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback and International Society for Neuroregulation & Research were accepted as a means of study evaluation. Heart rate variability (HRV) biofeedback was found to be moderately supportable as a treatment of MDD while outcome measure was a subjective questionnaire like Beck Depression Inventory (level 3/5, “probably efficacious”). Electroencephalographic (EEG) neurofeedback protocols, namely, alpha-theta, alpha, and sensorimotor rhythm upregulation, all qualify for level 2/5, “possibly efficacious.” Frontal alpha asymmetry protocol also received limited evidence of effect in depression (level 2/5, “possibly efficacious”). Finally, the two most influential real-time functional magnetic resonance imaging (rt-fMRI) neurofeedback protocols targeting the amygdala and the frontal cortices both demonstrate some effectiveness, though lack replications (level 2/5, “possibly efficacious”). Thus, neurofeedback specifically targeting depression is moderately supported by existing studies (all fit level 2/5, “possibly efficacious”). The greatest complication preventing certain protocols from reaching higher evidence levels is a relatively high number of uncontrolled studies and an absence of accurate replications arising from the heterogeneity in protocol details, course lengths, measures of improvement, control conditions, and sample characteristics.
Assessment of Concentrations of Heavy Metals in Postmyocardial Infarction Patients and Patients Free from Cardiovascular Event
Authors: Nowicki Grzegorz Józef , Ślusarska Barbara , Prystupa Andrzej , Blicharska Eliza , Adamczuk Agnieszka , Czernecki Tomasz , Jankowski Krzysztof Jacek
Published: January 2021

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) constitute the first cause of death among the population of developing and developed countries. Atherosclerosis, which is a disorder with multifactorial etiopathogenesis, underlies most CVDs. The available literature includes ample research studies on the influence of classic cardiovascular (CV) risk factors. However, environmental exposure to heavy metals, among other substances, is still an unappreciated risk factor of CVDs. This study aimed to assess the concentration of some heavy metals (copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), cobalt (Co), and iron (Fe)) in the blood serum of postmyocardial infarction (post-MI) patients and patients free from myocardial infarction (MI) as well as estimate the relationship between the occurrence of MI and increased concentration of heavy metals. The concentration of heavy metals (Cu, Zn, Mn, Co, and Fe) was assessed using the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry technique in a group of 146 respondents divided into two groups: post-MI group (study group (SG), n = 74) and group without cardiovascular event (CVE) having a low CV risk (control group (CG), n = 72). The concentration of the analyzed heavy metals was higher in SG. All the heavy metals showed a significant diagnostic value

p
<
0.001

. The highest value of area under the curve (AUC) was observed for manganese (Mn) (0.955; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.922–0.988), while the lowest value was found for zinc (Zn) (0.691; 95% CI = 0.599–0.782). In one-dimensional models, high concentrations of each of the analyzed heavy metals significantly increased the chances of having MI from 7-fold (Cu) to 128-fold (Mn). All the models containing a particular metal showed a significant and high discrimination value for MI occurrence (AUC 0.72–0.92). Higher concentrations of Cu, Zn, Mn, Co, and Fe were found to considerably increase the chances of having MI. Considering the increasingly higher environmental exposure to heavy metals in recent times, their concentrations can be distinguished as a potential risk factor of CVDs.
Patient Selection and Clinical Outcomes in the STOPDAPT-2 Trial
Authors: Kanenawa Kenji , Yamaji Kyohei , Tashiro Hiroaki , Domei Takenori , Ando Kenji , Watanabe Hirotoshi , Kimura Takeshi
Published: February 2021

Background:

We sought to evaluate the impact of patient selection for the STOPDAPT-2 trial (Short and Optimal Duration of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy After Everolimus-Eluting Cobalt-Chromium Stent-2) on clinical outcomes in a registry from a single center that participated in the STOPDAPT-2 trial.

Methods:

Among 2190 consecutive patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention using stent in Kokura Memorial Hospital during the enrollment period of the STOPDAPT-2 trial, 521 patients had exclusion criteria such as in-hospital major complications, anticoagulant use, or prior intracranial bleeding (ineligible group). Among 1669 patients who met the eligibility criteria (eligible group), 582 were enrolled (enrolled group) and 1087 were not enrolled (nonenrolled group) in the STOPDAPT-2 trial. The primary outcome measure was defined as a composite of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, definite stent thrombosis, stroke, or Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction major and minor bleeding.

Results:

Compared with the enrolled group, patients in the nonenrolled group more often had high bleeding risk according to the Academic Research Consortium for High Bleeding Risk definition (52.6% versus 41.2%;
P
<0.001) and were frailer according to the Canadian Study of Health and Aging Clinical Frailty Scale (intermediate, 21.4% versus 14.1%; high, 6.4% versus 2.1%;
P
<0.001). The cumulative 1-year incidences of the primary outcome measure, all-cause death, and major bleeding were significantly higher in the nonenrolled group than in the enrolled group (7.2% versus 4.5%,
P
=0.03; 4.1% versus 0.9%,
P
<0.001; and 4.3% versus 2.1%,
P
=0.03, respectively) and in the ineligible group than in the eligible group (21.2% versus 6.3%,
P
<0.001; 9.9% versus 3.0%,
P
<0.001; and 13.5% versus 3.5%,
P
<0.001, respectively).

Conclusions:

Patients who were ineligible, eligible but not enrolled, and enrolled in the STOPDAPT-2 trial had different risk profiles and clinical outcomes, suggesting important implications in applying the trial results in daily clinical practice.
A Tentative Discussion of Some Phenomena Concerning Early Texts of the Shi jing
Authors: Yen (顏世鉉) Shih-hsuan
Published: January 2021

The means by which the Shi jing was transmitted were, primarily, written texts as well as oral recitation and singing, and the textual features formed by these processes were often quite varied. During the pre-Qin period, written texts were frequently “open documents”; therefore, discrepancies among texts do not necessarily indicate distinctions of relative quality. Moreover, texts with different features do not necessarily belong to different textual systems. Therefore, one should adopt a holistic, open-minded attitude toward early textual forms of the Shi jing, and avoid hastily proceeding from discrepancies of format to rash judgments that they belong to different texts.
On Stanzaic Inversion in the Qin feng 秦風 Ode “Sitie” 駟驖 (Iron-Black Horses) in the Anhui University Bamboo Manuscript of the Shi jing 詩經 (Classic of Odes)
Authors: Yuasa (湯淺邦弘) Kunihiro
Published: January 2021

Compared to the odes of the transmitted Mao Shi 毛詩 (Mao-annotated odes) version of the Shi jing 詩經 (Classic of Odes), many odes in the Anhui University bamboo slip Shi jing manuscript exhibit variation in the sequence of their stanzas. Employing the ode “Si tie” 駟驖 (Iron-Black Horses; Mao 127) as a case study, this paper explores variants of stanzaic order to more broadly assess the significance of these new sources.
Reading from, Reading into: The Challenge of the Bamboo Odes
Authors: Saussy (蘇源熙) Haun
Published: January 2021

One of the great fascinations of excavated Chinese texts is the promise of recovering the formative stage of works that later became classics: we might then learn what later editors and interpreters have done to them, and rewrite the intellectual history of early China. But little is inevitable in the history of texts. This paper takes a single short poem from the Anhui Shijing manuscript and reads it both with and against the transmitted Mao edition, using it to imagine various scenarios for the “wonderful life” (Gould) of early Chinese literature.
Taxonomic remarks on the Centaurea aeolica (Asteraceae) species complex
Authors: BRULLO SALVATORE , CAMBRIA SALVATORE , CRISAFULLI ALESSANDRO , TAVILLA GIANMARCO , SCIANDRELLO SAVERIO
Published: February 2021

In the course of a taxonomical revision of Centaurea aeolica and the closely related C. pandataria, species confined to the Aeolian Archipelago (N Sicily) and Ventotene island (Pontian Archipelago, Latium) respectively, we describe a new species, named C. phalacrica, occurring on coastal metamorphic rocks near Messina (NE Sicily). These three species, well differentiated in several features, are examined from morphological, nomenclatural, chorological, and ecological points of view. For each species, a detailed iconography, consideration on their conservation status and identification keys are provided too. The lectotype of C. pandataria kept in the Florence Herbarium (FI) is designated.
Organizational Disaster Communication Ecology: Examining Interagency Coordination on Social Media During the Onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Liu Wenlin , Xu Weiai (Wayne) , John Burton
Published: February 2021

Interagency coordination is crucial for effective multiagency disaster management. Viewing government and emergency management organizations as vital components of citizens’ disaster communication ecology, this study examines how a group of Texas-based public health departments and emergency management offices engaged in interagency coordination during different phases of the COVID-19 pandemic. By analyzing coronavirus-related agency tweets between early February and the end of August 2020, the study assesses two types of interagency coordination: (1) content-level coordination in the form of semantic similarity among the selected public agencies serving different jurisdictions and (2) relational-level coordination in terms of referencing common stakeholders through retweeting coronavirus-related information. Using a granular, four-stage construct of a crisis, results identify stage-based variation with regard to peer-to-peer and federal-to-local coordination. We conclude with theoretical and practical implications for communication ecology and disaster management.
Treatment Modalities and the Role of Endoscopy for Delayed Gastric Emptying After Whipple Operation: Analysis of 53 Patients
Authors: Ozgun Yigit Mehmet , Oter Volkan , Piskin Erol , Colakoglu Muhammet Kadri , Aydin Osman , Aksoy Erol , Dalgic Tahsin , Bostanci Erdal Birol
Published: January 2021

Background

Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) is one of the most common complications after Whipple surgery. This situation delays postoperative oral food intake and prolongs hospitalization. Postoperative DGE often develops due to complications such as intra-abdominal abscess, collections, and anastomosis leaks, and these are called secondary DGE. The pathogenesis of primary DGE is still unknown, and there are insufficient data in the literature about the treatment. In this study, patients undergoing Whipple operation were examined separately as primary and secondary DGE. We discussed the causes and treatments of these patients, and also we aimed to present the therapeutic effect of endoscopy for primary DGE after the Whipple procedure.

Methods

From March 2014 to March 2018, data of 262 patients who underwent the Whipple procedure were collected prospectively. We observed that postoperative DGE developed in 53 (21.7%) patients. We retrospectively divided the patients by etiology into 2 groups as primary and secondary and graded DGE according to the International Study Group of Pancreatic Surgery. We defined patients who did not have secondary causes such as intra-abdominal abscess as primary DGE. Appropriate interventional procedures were performed for patients with secondary causes. We performed endoscopic intervention with therapeutic intent for patients who had primary DGE.

Results

The overall rate of DGE was 21.7% (n = 53) among 262 patients undergoing the Whipple procedure. It was observed that in 31 (58.5%) of these 53 patients, DGE was developed due to secondary causes. Interventional procedures were performed to these patients when necessary. A total of 22 (41.5%) patients developed primary DGE. Of these, 9 patients were grade A, 7 were grade B, and 6 were grade C. The mean duration of hospitalization for secondary DGE and primary DGE was 20.36 and 28.7 days, respectively. After endoscopic intervention with therapeutic intent to primary DGE patients, we observed that patients tolerated solid meal after 12 hours in grade B and after 26 hours in grade C patients.

Conclusion

Delayed gastric emptying, which is a common complication after Whipple operation and which deteriorates the quality of life and prolongs the duration of hospital stay, should be treated according to the cause. In secondary DGE, treatment modalities must be focused on intra-abdominal causes such as hematoma, collection, and abcess. We suggest that the primary DGE which is unresponsive to medical treatments could be treated endoscopically. After endoscopic intervention, patients with primary DGE can be started oral intake on the same day and discharged more quickly.
Chronic Fatigue After Thyroidectomy: A Patient-Centered Survey
Authors: Lumpkin Stephanie T. , Button Julia , Stratton Lee , Strassle Paula D. , Kim Lawrence T.
Published: January 2021

Background

Fatigue after thyroidectomy is common, but there is a paucity of data regarding its prevalence and duration. We hypothesized that total thyroidectomy (TT) patients would have more long-term fatigue than thyroid lobectomy (TL) patients.

Methods

Statewide survey of thyroidectomy patients (2004-2017) was carried out.

Results

281 patients completed the survey. 216 respondents (77%) had TT and 65 (23%) had TL. Within one year of surgery, 172 (61%) respondents recalled being troubled by new fatigue all, most, or some of the time. Total thyroidectomy patients were more likely to report new fatigue (69% vs. 44%, aOR 2.72, 95% CI 1.44 to 5.18). Of patients ( n = 172) reporting new fatigue, 67 (39%) reported at least moderate improvement. Nineteen (28%) saw improvement within 1 year, 35 (52%) saw improvement in 1-2 years, and 11 (16%) saw improvement after 2 years.

Conclusion

Long-term fatigue after TT can be debilitating, long-lasting, and less prevalent after TL.