bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal Sizing of the Stand-Alone Photovoltaic System for a Solar-Powered Translational Sprinkler Irrigation Machine considering the Loss of Power Supply Probability
Authors: Liu Kenan , Sun Bugong , Gao Xiaoyang , Zhang Yang , Sun Wei , Feng Quan , Yang Wanxia
Published: January 2022

The translational sprinkler irrigation machine is widely used because of its high degree of automation, less manual investment, and convenient movement. However, when using the sprinkler irrigation machine, the power supply is difficult to be guaranteed in some remote power shortage areas. Solar energy has become one of the best choices for the power source of sprinkler irrigation machines. An important issue is the optimal sizing of the stand-alone photovoltaic system for a solar-powered translational sprinkler irrigation machine. This work conducts the optimal sizing of the stand-alone photovoltaic system for a solar-powered translational sprinkler irrigation machine considering the loss of power supply probability. Firstly, the self-developed translational sprinkler irrigation machine is introduced. The load power, which includes the driving power of the translational sprinkler irrigation machine, water intake pressure driving power, and the loss power of the controller and sensors, is considered in the calculation process. Subsequently, the photovoltaic generator model and the battery storage model are established. Then, the stand-alone photovoltaic system is optimized considering the loss of power supply probability (LPSP) and the life cycle cost (LCC). After the solar irradiance and ambient temperature of a typical sunny day in the test area are given, the optimal combination of the PV module and battery is obtained. The optimal sizing result is verified using the PV power, state of charge (SOC), and load power. The presented optimal sizing method is also compared with an existing method. Besides, the operation test of the sprinkler irrigation machine is also carried out to verify the optimal sizing result. The optimal sizing result is proved to be effective and applicable.
Propofol via Antioxidant Property Attenuated Hypoxia-Mediated Mitochondrial Dynamic Imbalance and Malfunction in Primary Rat Hippocampal Neurons
Authors: Han Jingfeng , Tao Weiping , Cui Wei , Chen Jiawei
Published: January 2022

Background. Hypoxia may induce mitochondrial abnormality, which is associated with a variety of clinical phenotypes in the central nervous system. Propofol is an anesthetic agent with neuroprotective property. We examined whether and how propofol protected hypoxia-induced mitochondrial abnormality in neurons. Methods. Primary rat hippocampal neurons were exposed to propofol followed by hypoxia treatment. Neuron viability, mitochondrial morphology, mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production were measured. Mechanisms including reactive oxygen species (ROS), extracellular regulated protein kinase (ERK), protein kinase A (PKA), HIF-1α, Drp1, Fis1, Mfn1, Mfn2, and Opa1 were investigated. Results. Hypoxia increased intracellular ROS production and induced mPTP opening, while reducing ATP production, MMP values, and neuron viability. Hypoxia impaired mitochondrial dynamic balance by increasing mitochondrial fragmentation. Further, hypoxia induced the translocation of HIF-1α and increased the expression of Drp1, while having no effect on Fis1 expression. In addition, hypoxia induced the phosphorylation of ERK and Drp1ser616, while reducing the phosphorylation of PKA and Drp1ser637. Importantly, we demonstrated all these effects were attenuated by pretreatment of neurons with 50 μM propofol, antioxidant α-tocopherol, and ROS scavenger ebselen. Besides, hypoxia, propofol, α-tocopherol, or ebselen had no effect on the expression of Mfn1, Mfn2, and Opa1. Conclusions. In rat hippocampal neurons, hypoxia induced oxidative stress, caused mitochondrial dynamic imbalance and malfunction, and reduced neuron viability. Propofol protected mitochondrial abnormality and neuron viability via antioxidant property, and the molecular mechanisms involved HIF-1α-mediated Drp1 expression and ERK/PKA-mediated Drp1 phosphorylation.
A Note on Tsuji’s Criterion for Numerical Triviality
Authors: Fukuda Shigetaka
Published: January 2022

In this study, we give an alternative and elementary proof to Tsuji’s criterion for a Cartier divisor to be numerically trivial.
Tool Wear Monitoring Algorithm Based on SWT-DCNN and SST-DCNN
Authors: Gao Haining , Xie Aimin , Shen Hongdan , Yu Lei , Wang Yinling , Hu Yingjie , Gao Yixiao , Xu Jing , Wu Wanqing
Published: January 2022

The accurate monitoring of tool condition is of great significance to improve the machining quality and efficiency of parts, prolong the service life of tools and machine tools, and reduce the harm of manufacturing environment. In this dissertation, two methods based on synchronous compressed continuous wavelet transform and deep convolution neural network (SWT-DCNN) and synchronous compressed continuous wavelet transform and deep convolution neural network (SST-DCNN) are proposed to monitor tool wear. It is found that the recognition accuracy of SWT-DCNN method is 99.96%, and that of SST-DCNN method is 99.86%. The reason is that SWT method has good time-frequency energy aggregation. Compared with the SST-DCNN method, the recognition accuracy of the SWT-DCNN method is more stable. At the same time, it is found that the recognition rate of the SST-DCNN method in the process of normal tool monitoring is only 93.3%, which is easy to classify normal tools into the initial wear category. The experimental results show that the two methods proposed in this paper can effectively monitor the tool wear state.
[Retracted] Research on the Construction of Intelligent Media Ideological and Political Learning Platform Based on Artificial Intelligence Technology
Authors: Wang Jingsheng , Hu Siyuan
Published: January 2022

Aiming at the problems of slow teaching resource sharing rate, long platform response time, and low student learning efficiency in traditional ideological and political learning platforms, a research on the construction of intelligent media ideological and political learning platforms based on artificial intelligence technology is proposed. We build an artificial intelligence open source development platform framework based on the cloud platform and use the Ceph method to optimize the storage of artificial intelligence training platform data. Under this framework, we design the business process and business module service architecture of the intelligent media ideological and political learning platform. Based on the K‐means algorithm, the intelligent media ideological and political learning platform resource management module is designed, the teaching resource database is constructed, and the teaching resource sharing model component module is designed to realize the construction of the intelligent media ideological and political learning platform. The experimental results show that the sharing rate of ideological, political, and educational learning resources on the platform is relatively fast. The response time of the platform is 0.08 s when the amount of ideological and political teaching resources is 16000 MB. Students who are interested and very interested in the teaching account for 89% of the total.
Clinical Features and Prevalence of Spondyloarthritis in a Cohort of Italian Patients Presenting with Acute Nongranulomatous Anterior Uveitis
Authors: Bolletta Elena , Macchioni Pierluigi , Citriniti Giorgia , Mastrofilippo Valentina , Aldigeri Raffaella , De Simone Luca , Gozzi Fabrizio , Adani Chantal , Sangiovanni Anna , Posarelli Chiara , Figus Michele , Muratore Francesco , Pipitone Nicolò , Salvarani Carlo , Cimino Luca
Published: January 2022

Purpose. To describe the clinical features of acute nongranulomatous anterior uveitis (NGAU) patients and to estimate the prevalence of concomitant spondyloarthritis (SpA). Methods. Retrospective study of consecutive patients affected by NGAU referred to the Ocular Immunology Unit of the AUSL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Italy, between January 2016 and January 2019. All patients underwent ophthalmic evaluation and blood test with HLA-B27 typing and were referred to a rheumatologist to identify any undiagnosed SpA. SpA was classified according to the Assessment of SpondyloArthritis international Society (ASAS) criteria in axial or peripheral SpA. Patients were divided into two groups: NGAU with associated SpA (SpA+) and NGAU without SpA (SpA-). Clinical and demographic features of the two groups, including sex, HLA-B27, family history of rheumatic disease, uveitis laterality, course, and severity of ocular inflammation, complications, and treatment, were compared. Results. Ninety-nine patients with NGAU were enrolled, of whom 36 (36%) with a diagnosis of SpA: 14 with peripheral SpA and 22 with axial SpA. The prevalence of SpA was higher in HLA-B27-positive patients than in HLA-B27-negative patients (50% vs. 15%,p<0.0001). The multivariate logistic regression (R2=0.28) for SpA diagnosis identified as significant predictive factors: age at diagnosis (odds ratio OR=0.95, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.91-0.99) and HLA-B27+ (OR=5.32, 95% CI: 1.80-15.70). Conclusions. Our results confirmed the high prevalence of undiagnosed SpA in patients with NGAU, suggesting that, regardless of HLA-B27 status, in the presence of IBP and/or peripheral arthritis, patients with NGAU must be referred to the rheumatologist to allow earlier diagnosis.
Identification of a Hypoxia-Related lncRNA Biomarker Signature for Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Yang Cuifang , Zheng Xiang
Published: January 2022

Purpose. Hypoxia is a leading hallmark of tumors, which is associated with carcinogenicity and dismal patient outcome. In this project, we tended to detect the prognostic value of hypoxic lncRNA and further generate a hypoxic lncRNA-based model in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Methods. We integrated the transcriptome and clinical information of HNSCC based on TCGA dataset. Univariate-multivariate Cox analysis was implemented to develop the signature according to hypoxia-related lncRNAs (HRlncRNAs) with greatly prognostic power in HNSCC. Next, the biomarker signature was tested using survival analysis and ROC plots. Moreover, we used GSEA to uncover the potential pathways of HRlncRNAs, and CIBERSORT and ssGSEA tools were applied to mirror the immune status of HNSCC patients. Results. Nine HRlncRNAs (LINC00460, AC144831.1, AC116914.2, MIAT, MSC-AS1, LINC01980, MYOSLID, AL357033.4, and LINC02195) were determined to develop a HRlncRNA-related signature (HRLS). High-HRLS group was associated with dismal patient outcome using survival analysis. Moreover, the HRLS was superior to classical clinical traits in forecasting survival rate of samples with HNSCC. GSEA unearthed the top six hallmarks in the HRLS-high group individuals. In addition, the HRLS was also bound up with the infiltration of macrophages, CD8 T cells, and activated mast cells. Conclusion. Our nominated nine-HRlncRNA risk model is robust and valuable tool for forecasting patient outcome in HNSCC.
Influence of Enterprise Culture Construction on Technological Innovation Ability Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Yang Heng , Wang Luqi
Published: January 2022

To better conform to the development trend of economic globalization, modern enterprises need to continuously innovate in technology, so as to provide enterprises with better products. The technological innovation level of economic innovation subjects is rising day by day, and the technological innovation level of enterprises has become more and more prominent. An excellent corporate culture will help technological innovation. The company uses corporate culture to shape its corporate image and spirit, thereby creating an atmosphere for technological innovation and bringing success to technological innovation. Corporate culture and technological innovation are two important elements to strengthen the company’s core competitiveness, which directly affect the company’s sustainable development level. Based on the previous analysis, we constructed an integrated model of corporate culture and technological innovation based on deep learning methods, analyzed the effect of corporate culture construction on corporate technological innovation capabilities, and sought measures to establish corporate culture.
Intelligent Segmentation Medical Assistance System for MRI Images of Osteosarcoma in Developing Countries
Authors: Wu Jia , Yang Shun , Gou Fangfang , Zhou Zhixun , Xie Peng , Xu Nuo , Dai Zhehao
Published: January 2022

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary malignant bone tumor in children and adolescents. It has a high degree of malignancy and a poor prognosis in developing countries. The doctor manually explained that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) suffers from subjectivity and fatigue limitations. In addition, the structure, shape, and position of osteosarcoma are complicated, and there is a lot of noise in MRI images. Directly inputting the original data set into the automatic segmentation system will bring noise and cause the model’s segmentation accuracy to decrease. Therefore, this paper proposes an osteosarcoma MRI image segmentation system based on a deep convolution neural network, which solves the overfitting problem caused by noisy data and improves the generalization performance of the model. Firstly, we use Mean Teacher to optimize the data set. The noise data is put into the second round of training of the model to improve the robustness of the model. Then, we segment the image using a deep separable U-shaped network (SepUNet) and conditional random field (CRF). SepUnet can segment lesion regions of different sizes at multiple scales; CRF further optimizes the boundary. Finally, this article calculates the area of the tumor area, which provides a more intuitive reference for assisting doctors in diagnosis. More than 80000 MRI images of osteosarcoma from three hospitals in China were tested. The results show that the proposed method guarantees the balance of speed, accuracy, and cost under the premise of improving accuracy.
Advances in Understanding the Role of Aloe Emodin and Targeted Drug Delivery Systems in Cancer
Authors: Şeker Karatoprak Gökçe , Küpeli Akkol Esra , Yücel Çiğdem , Bahadır Acıkara Özlem , Sobarzo-Sánchez Eduardo
Published: January 2022

Cancer is one of the important causes of death worldwide. Despite remarkable improvements in cancer research in the past few decades, several cancer patients still cannot be cured owing to the development of drug resistance. Natural sources might have prominence as potential drug candidates. Among the several chemical classes of natural products, anthraquinones are characterized by their large structural variety, noticeable biological activity, and low toxicity. Aloe emodin, an anthraquinone derivative, is a natural compound found in the roots and rhizomes of many plants. This compound has proven its antineoplastic, anti-inflammatory, antiangiogenic, and antiproliferative potential as well as ability to prevent cancer metastasis and potential in reversing multidrug resistance of cancer cells. The anticancer property of aloe emodin, a broad-spectrum inhibitory agent of cancer cells, has been detailed in many biological pathways. In cancer cells, these molecular mechanisms consist of inhibition of cell growth and proliferation, cell cycle arrest deterioration, initiation of apoptosis, antimetastasis, and antiangiogenic effect. In accordance with the strategy of developing potential drug candidates from natural products, aloe emodin’s low bioavailability has been tried to be overcome by structural modifications and nanocarrier systems. Consequently, this review summarizes the antiproliferative and anticarcinogenic properties of aloe emodin, as well as the enhanced activity of its derivatives and the advantages of drug delivery systems on bioavailability.
HDAC10 Inhibits Cervical Cancer Progression through Downregulating the HDAC10-microRNA-223-EPB41L3 Axis
Authors: Gu Yuan Yuan , Zhou Guan Nan , Li Yao , He Hong Yu , Ding Jing Xin , Hua Ke Qin
Published: January 2022

Background. Although the tumorigenesis of cervical cancer (CC) has been widely investigated and recognized, the study of the systematic impact of histone deacetylase 10 (HDAC10), microRNA, and downstream molecular mechanisms in CC is still limited. Herein, cervical cancer, precancer lesions, and normal cervical tissues were collected to test the expression level of HDAC10, miR-223, and EPB41L3. The mechanism of HDAC10, miR-223, and EPB41L3 was interpreted in cervical cancer cells after HDAC10, miR-223, or EPB41L3 expression was altered. Results. HDAC10 was poorly expressed in cervical cancer and precancer lesions, while miR-223 was highly expressed in cervical cancer. HDAC10 bound to miR-223, and miR-223 targeted EPB41L3. HDAC10 depressed the invasion property and tumorigenesis of cervical cancer via downregulating miR-223 and subsequently targeting EPB41L3. Conclusion. The study clarifies that HDAC10 inhibits cervical cancer by downregulating miR-223 and subsequently targeting EPB41L3 expression, which might provide a new insight for management upon cervical cancer and precancer lesions.
MEMS Dynamic Characteristics Analysis of Electrostatic Microbeams for Building Structure Monitoring
Authors: Gong Youping , Bo Hong , Zhou Chuanping , Wang Maofa , Zhou Rougang
Published: January 2022

Building structure health monitoring is essential for modern buildings, sensors related to building structure health monitoring are often made with microelectrostatic cantilever beam (MECB), and the performance of this kind of devices is often affected by instability, which affects the measurement results and accuracy. Therefore, it is necessary to study the nonlinear dynamic characteristics of the MECB in the process of bending and pull‐in. In this paper, based on the energy principle and fluid pressure film damping effect, the dynamic equation mathematical model of MECB is established and then the dynamic characteristics of the pull‐in and lift‐off voltage of the MECB and the harmonic motion characteristics under the bias voltage are obtained, which provides guidance for the design of the electrostatic driving sensor.
Atomic Decompositions and John-Nirenberg Theorem of Grand Martingale Hardy Spaces with Variable Exponents
Authors: Li Libo , Hao Zhiwei
Published: January 2022

Let

θ
≥
0

and

p

·

be a variable exponent, and we introduce a new class of function spaces

L

p

·

,
θ

in a probabilistic setting which unifies and generalizes the variable Lebesgue spaces with

θ
=
0

and grand Lebesgue spaces with

p

·

≡
p

and

θ
=
1

. Based on the new spaces, we introduce a kind of Hardy-type spaces, grand martingale Hardy spaces with variable exponents, via the martingale operators. The atomic decompositions and John-Nirenberg theorem shall be discussed in these new Hardy spaces.
High-Resolution Melting Analysis to Detect Antimicrobial Resistance Determinants in South African Neisseria gonorrhoeae Clinical Isolates and Specimens
Authors: Mitchev Nireshni , Singh Ravesh , Ramsuran Veron , Ismail Arshad , Allam Mushal , Kwenda Stanford , Mnyameni Florah , Garrett Nigel , Swe-Han Khine Swe , Niehaus Abraham J. , Mlisana Koleka P.
Published: January 2022

Background. Antimicrobial resistance is limiting treatment options for Neisseria gonorrhoeae infections. To aid or replace culture and the syndromic management approach, molecular assays are required for antimicrobial susceptibility testing to guide appropriate and rapid treatment. Objective. We aimed to detect single-nucleotide polymorphisms and plasmids associated with antimicrobial resistance from N. gonorrhoeae isolates from a clinic population in South Africa, using real-time PCR as a rapid test for AMR detection. Methods. N. gonorrhoeae isolates, from female and male patients presenting for care at a sexually transmitted infections clinic in Durban, South Africa, were analysed using phenotypic and genotypic methods for identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST). Real-time PCR and high-resolution melting analysis were used to detect porA pseudogene (species-specific marker) and resistance-associated targets. Whole-genome sequencing was used as the gold standard for the presence of point mutations. Results. The real-time porA pseudogene assay identified all N. gonorrhoeae-positive isolates and specimens. Concordance between molecular detection (real-time PCR and HRM) and resistance phenotype was ≥92% for blaTEM (HLR penicillin), rpsJ_V57M (tetracycline), tetM (tetracycline), and gyrA_S91F (ciprofloxacin). Resistance determinants 16SrRNA_C1192U (spectinomycin), mtrR_G45D (azithromycin), and penA_D545S, penA_mosaic (cefixime/ceftriaxone) correlated with the WHO control isolates. Conclusions. Eight resistance-associated targets correlated with phenotypic culture results. The porA pseudogene reliably detected N. gonorrhoeae. Larger cohorts are required to validate the utility of these targets as a convenient culture-free diagnostic tool, to guide STI management in a South African population.
Computing the Average Body Mass Index: A Study with Systematic Sampling Using Auxiliary Information
Authors: Vishwakarma Gajendra K. , Singh Neha , Singh Surendra P.
Published: January 2022

Background. The use of body mass index (BMI) is prevalent, to measure the fat in the body. Sometimes, during a clinical survey, different measures of body parts of people may be available, but the actual weight and height are not available. In this article, we have shown a method to estimate the body mass index using the measures of different body parts. Systematic sampling is to be applied only if the given population is logically homogeneous because systematic sample units are uniformly distributed over the population. Methods. The method of estimation for the mean of the study variable under systematic sampling using auxiliary information has been used to estimate the body mass index (BMI). We also have shown the effect of observational error in the estimation. The measures of different body parts are taken as auxiliary variables. The correlation coefficient between BMI and the circumference of different body parts has been obtained. The efficacy of methods in terms of mean square error has been obtained in the estimation of BMI. Also, the observations available on different body parts are assumed to be recorded with observational error. Thus, we propose a method of estimation of BMI in the presence of observational error. A simulation study has been conducted to demonstrate the effect of the observational error on the estimation of body mass index. Results. The properties of the proposed estimation method have been derived under large sampling approximation, and the conditions under which the proposed method is more efficient are found. We assume the presence of observational error in the study of 252 men. The efficiency of the difference estimators is better in the presence of observational error. Also, the presence of observational error does not change the properties of the estimators. Conclusions. The study provides an easy approach and the simplest way to obtain the BMI estimation with and without observational error. Thus, the suggested method may be used by statisticians for this problem and for many other similar problems in the estimation of mean.
Digital Visual Sensing Design Teaching Using Digital Twins
Authors: Lian Lu , Yan Yao
Published: January 2022

Digital twin technology can support teachers in this major to complete monitoring related topics and application research and serve teaching and scientific research through the establishment of automatic monitoring teaching model laboratory and in‐depth combination with the current students’ skill training needs in this major. This exploration aims to make the visual sensor industry have a steady stream of talents. Promoting the development of visual sensor technology is to promote the development of science and technology. Based on the teaching research of visual sensing design using digital technology, a set of teaching systems of visual sensing design is designed by using the methods of literature research and investigation and analysis. Special topics are set up from the aspects of professional subjects; regarding course content, various sensor principle research courses, visual sensor design courses, experimental courses, and example courses are set up; teaching methods are divided into online and offline synchronous classes; the evaluation method should focus on the distribution, examples, and practice. The results show that traditional classroom teaching is seriously separated from extracurricular learning. Most students are in a state of passive acceptance of knowledge and have few thinking activities. The established teaching system integrates brain and cognition, photoelectric foundation, sensory imaging, visual sensing imaging, visual sensing technology courses, computer technology, virtual experiment courses, and physical experiment courses. It can carry out more than 30 experiments of optical microscopic imaging and X‐ray imaging based on the principle of visual sensing. Therefore, the teaching effect and teaching mode of the proposed digital visual sensing teaching system have been greatly improved.
Improvement of Moisture Management Properties of Face Masks Using Electrospun Nanofiber Filter Insert
Authors: Fadil Fatirah , Affandi Nor Dalila Nor , Harun Ahmad Mukifza , Alam Mohammad Khursheed
Published: January 2022

Face coverings such as a face mask are one of the important preventive measures amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, by limiting exhaled particles and reducing expiratory droplet spread. Adding a filter to face masks may offer extra protection against the virus. Nevertheless, there remains a significant concern where thicker, tightly woven materials of masks may reduce the ability to breathe comfortably, due to inadequate moisture management properties of woven fabric in existing disposable surgical face masks. Therefore, the study on the properties of air permeability, water vapor permeability, and flexural rigidity of a face mask fabric is highly essential. This study is aimed at analyzing the potential application of electrospun nanofibers fabricated from electrospinning technique, as filter inserts in commercial surgical face masks. The function of electrospun nanofiber filter (NF) inserted in commercial surgical face masks was introduced in the study. The results indicated the significant reduction in air permeability and water vapor permeability along with the additional usage of electrospun NF within the surgical face masks, due to the smaller fiber size and interspaces in the filter layer as analyzed from FESEM analysis. The percentage of air permeability value was slightly decreased by 15.9%, from 339.5 to 285.5 mm/s, whereas the value of flexural rigidity of surgical face masks with and without electrospun NF insert is 0.1358 and 0.1207 mg/cm, respectively. Hence, the NF inserts are recommended as the potential core component in a face mask.
Ethnomedicinal Studies, Chemical Composition, and Antibacterial Activity of the Mammea americana L. Bark in the Municipality of Cértegui, Chocó, Colombia
Authors: Mosquera-Chaverra Lina , Salas-Moreno Manuel , Marrugo-Negrete José
Published: January 2022

Mammea americana L. is a plant with diverse medicinal uses in the municipality of Cértegui, Chocó, Colombia. This research characterized the ethnomedicinal, chemical, and antibacterial activities of the bark of Mammea americana. Through interviews and semistructured surveys with the community, its ethnomedicinal uses were determined. Compounds present in the bark extract were identified and quantified by gas chromatography-coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and a qualitative analysis was performed by preliminary phytochemistry. Antibacterial activity and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) were carried out by agar diffusion and dilution methods, respectively, using ethanolic and aqueous extracts. Ethnomedical data showed that the bark is used to treat 14 conditions, the most representative being gallstones, prostate inflammation, and malaria. Preliminary phytochemical analyses showed the existence of several secondary metabolites such as tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, triterpenes and/or steroids, quinones, and saponins. A total of 29 compounds were identified; the most abundant were ethyl 5-oxo-4-(p-toluidine)-2,5-dihydro-3-furancarboxylate, phenol, 4,4′,4″-ethylidynetris, nerolidol, 19-hydroxy-13-epimanoyl oxide, α-elemene, and δ-cadinene. The results showed remarkable antibacterial activity of the ethanolic extract (20 mg/ml) against Staphylococcus aureus (22.6 mm) and Escherichia coli (19.6 mm) and of the crude water extract (20 mg/ml) against Staphylococcus aureus (18.5 mm) and Escherichia coli (12.4 mm). The strongest MIC was for the ethanolic extract with values of 0.357 and 0.897 mg/ml against S. aureus and E. coli strains, respectively, while in the aqueous extract, S. aureus (3.99 mg/ml) and E. coli (4.3 mg/ml) were recorded. It is assumed that the compounds identified in this study could be responsible for the antibacterial activity of the species, as well as the relationship of the identified compounds and metabolites with the ethnomedical uses given by the community, providing a scientific and traditional basis for its different traditional medical uses.
Alternative Treatment with Every-Other-Day Dosing of Sunitinib for Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma: Extended Follow-Up
Authors: Ohba Kojiro , Miyata Yasuyoshi , Mitsunari Kensuke , Matsuda Tsuyoshi , Mukae Yuta , Nakamura Yuichiro , Matsuo Tomohiro , Sakai Hideki
Published: January 2022

Introduction: We investigated the efficacy and safety of every-other-day dosing of sunitinib for the treatment of metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) with extended follow-up and the impact of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) drugs. Methods: Thirty-two patients received standard dosing treatment (standard group), and 32 received every-other-day treatment (experimental group). Efficacy endpoints included progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and objective response rate. We also analyzed the clinical course of patients treated with nivolumab after sunitinib. Results: The minimum follow-up was 42 months. Median PFS and OS were significantly longer in the experimental group compared with the standard group (27.6 vs. 6.2 and 87.1 vs. 24.6 months, respectively). The incidence of dose interruption of sunitinib caused by adverse events was significantly lower in the experimental group than in the standard group (28.1% vs. 56.3%, p = 0.042). Multivariate analysis showed that every-other-day dosing was a significant independent prognostic factor (p = 0.038), although nivolumab use was not (p = 0.232). Twelve patients were treated with nivolumab after sunitinib, and patients who did not respond to nivolumab tended to respond to pretreatment sunitinib for a long period. Discussion/Conclusion: Long-term follow-up confirmed the efficacy and safety of every-other-day dosing of sunitinib for mRCC patients in the ICI era.
Nursing Management-Associated Factors Associated with Urinary Tract Infection in Residents from Nursing Home Based on LTCfocus Database
Authors: Wang Wei , Wang Hui
Published: January 2022

Introduction: The aim of the study was to identify nursing management-associated factors correlated with urinary tract infection (UTI) in residents from nursing homes. Methods: The data of 3,393 nursing homes were extracted from LTCfocus database. Variables statistically correlated with UTI rate were identified by Spearman correlation analysis. Tobit regression model was used for finding the factors associated with UTI rate. Results: The number of beds (β = 0.03, 95% CI: 0.02–0.05), number of occupied beds/the total number of beds (β = 0.05, 95% CI: 0.03–0.07), number of admissions/total number of beds (β = 0.27, 95% CI: 0.11–0.43), the proportions of residents whose primary support is Medicare (β = 0.03, 95% CI: 0.01–0.06), women residents (β = 0.04, 95% CI: 0.02–0.06), White residents (β = 0.02, 95% CI: 0.01–0.03), patients with bladder incontinence (β = 0.03, 95% CI: 0.02–0.05), hypertension patients (β = 0.03, 95% CI: 0.01–0.05), and long-stay residents with daily pain (β = 0.16, 95% CI: 0.12–0.19), hospitalizations per resident year (β = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.30–1.21), and average daily census (β = −0.02, 95% CI: −0.03 to 0.00) were factors associated with UTI rate. Conclusions: Nursing homes with more females, White people, and patients with bladder incontinence, hypertension, or daily pain should be cared more and the number of occupied beds and admissions should be controlled to reduce the occurrence of UTI.
Nucleated Red Blood Cell Counts of Neonates Born Emergently 1–4 h after a Maternal Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Bahr Timothy M. , Henry Erick , O’Brien Elizabeth A. , Christensen Robert D.
Published: January 2022

A high nucleated red blood cell (NRBC) count in a newborn infant at birth is sometimes used to imply that fetal hypoxia occurred. However, it is debated whether many hours are required between fetal hypoxia and the appearance of high NRBC or alternatively, whether this can occur very quickly, with fetal hypoxia within minutes to a few hours before birth. We sought relevant information from four unfortunate cases, where during a previously healthy pregnancy, the mother had a sudden cardiac arrest, with cardiopulmonary resuscitation begun at the incident scene and continued through emergent cesarean section delivery.
Dermatitis Cruris Pustulosa et Atrophicans: Scarring Alopecia Beyond Scalp Hair
Authors: João Ana Luísa , Cunha Nélia , Pinheiro Rita Ramos , Lencastre André
Published: January 2022

Dermatitis Cruris Pustulosa et Atrophicans (DCPA) was first described in 1952 in Nigeria and is nowadays regarded as a type of chronic folliculitis of tropical areas. It is often limited to the lower limbs of young adults, mostly in the second to third decades, with a unique clinical picture characterized by chronicity, relentless progression, therapy refractoriness, and permanent cicatricial changes. Trauma, occlusion, and microorganism selection contribute for its etiopathogenesis, which is deemed multifactorial but still incompletely understood. Despite its conspicuous clinical features, awareness of DCPA is apparently low, hence probably overlooked. We herein summarize the current state of knowledge regarding this distinct entity, and further present the first report in a patient from Bangladesh, and concurrently the first in Europe. Paucity of data, and unraveled definite etiology and treatment, highlight the need for further studies.
Pancreatic Cancer: Current Multimodality Treatment Options and the Future Impact of Molecular Biological Profiling
Authors: Ettrich Thomas J. , Sturm Niklas , Güthle Melanie , Hüttner Felix J. , Perkhofer Lukas
Published: January 2022

Background: Pancreatic cancer (PDAC) – even if deemed resectable – has still a dismal prognosis and is the seventh leading cause of global cancer-related death with rising incidence worldwide. Summary: Surgical resection at best in combination with adjuvant systemic chemotherapy is the only potentially curative treatment. Surgical treatment has substantially improved over the last years with significantly reduced perioperative morbidity and mortality. Even when deemed radiologically resectable, the majority of PDAC is likely to have micrometastases, leaving most PDAC patients with an advanced stage. Recent 5-year overall survival was up to 46% in patients eligible for surgery with intensified adjuvant chemotherapy. Eligible for curative surgery are about one-third of the patients, and only 20% of these patients have the option for cure with surgery and adjuvant chemotherapy. Standards of care in treating PDAC patients include various mostly combinational chemotherapy approaches in the advanced and adjuvant setting. Moreover, first targeted therapies for individualizing treatment, e.g., specific subgroups like BRCA1/2 germline mutated patients, were established lately. Neoadjuvant concepts are currently part of research. This review focuses on current and future multimodal treatment options of PDAC and the impact of molecular profiling for individualizing treatment. Key Messages: State of the art in pancreatic cancer therapy is multimodal and includes novel strategies to allow molecular defined subgroup-specific treatment.
The Timing of Genital Surgery in Somatic Intersexuality: Surveys of Patients’ Preferences
Authors: Meyer-Bahlburg Heino F.L.
Published: January 2022

In recent years, intersex advocates, medical ethicists, and lawmakers have increasingly demanded a delay of genital surgery that is not acutely medically necessary in patients with somatic intersexuality to the age of consent. This study provides a review of published surveys of affected patients’ own opinions on this issue. In part with search of PubMed 2000–2021, 10 pertinent surveys of patients were identified: 3 from the USA; 4 from European countries; and one each from Brazil, China, and Malaysia. All were based on samples of clinic patients, most of whom had previously undergone genital surgery. The majority of both XX and XY patients with somatic intersexuality favored early surgery, with somewhat more syndrome-specific variability in XY patients. The available survey data clearly indicate that a mandatory delay of genital surgery in all patients with somatic intersexuality to the age of consent would disregard the wishes of the majority of surveyed patients. A syndrome- and syndrome severity-specific individualized approach to surgery decisions appears more appropriate.
Association of Sensitive Eyes with Sensitive Skin: A Worldwide Study of 10,743 Subjects
Authors: Misery Laurent , Reaux-Le Goazigo Annabelle , Morisset Stéphane , Seite Sophie , Delvigne Véronique , Cochener Béatrice , Taieb Charles
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Sensitive eyes are commonly reported by patients, but there are very few epidemiological studies on this disorder. The aim of this study was the evaluation of the self-reported frequency of sensitive eyes and the association with sensitive skin. Methods: A survey was performed on a representative sample of the population aged more than 18 years in five different countries (Brazil, China, France, Russia, and the USA). All participants answered a questionnaire on sociodemographic characteristics; skin phototype; eye color; tobacco consumption; exposure to sunlight, air pollution, or having pets; and sleep disorders. The presence of sensitive eyes, eyelids, or skin and their triggering factors were assessed with specific questions. Results: A total of 10,743 individuals (5,285 men and 5,458 women) were included in the study. Among them, 48.2% reported having sensitive skin and 46.0% reported having sensitive eyes. Sensitive eyes were more frequently reported by women (46.5%) than men (39.4%) in all countries, with the exception of China. The presence of sensitive eyes was more frequent if skin was very sensitive. More than half of subjects with sensitive eyes declared that their triggering factors were exposure to sunlight, dust, touch pad screens, or computer screens or dry air. They were more exposed to pollution and tobacco. Their phototype (including eye color) was lighter. Discussion/Conclusion: This large study shows that self-declared sensitive eyes are very frequent and commonly associated with sensitive skin. Triggering factors of sensitive eyes are more specific.
Hubungan Antar Sektor dan Daerah dalam Perekonomian Provinsi Su-matera Barat Tahun 2016 (An Inter-Regional Input-Output Analysis)
Authors: Hidayah Fauzul , Sunarjo Deden Achmad
Published: January 2022

Kinerja perekonomian di suatu daerah tidak hanya dapat dilihat melalui kontribusi suatu sektor terhadap total perekonomian di daerah tersebut, namun juga dapat dilihat berdasarkan keterkaitan sektor tersebut terhadap sektor lainnya. Artinya, bagaimana suatu sektor mampu mempengaruhi dan memberikan efek terhadap aktivitas sektor-sektor ekonomi lainnya di daerah tersebut. Kontribusi suatu sektor terhadap total perekonomian, serta keterkaitan yang terjadi antar sektor akan memberikan gambaran menyeluruh terkait integrasi dalam pembangunan ekonomi di suatu daerah. Salah satu alat yang dapat digunakan adalah Tabel Input-Output Regional (Tabel I-O Regional). Tabel I-O Regional disusun untuk menyajikan gambaran hubungan timbal-balik dan saling keterkaitan antar sektor dalam perekonomian di suatu daerah selama periode tertentu (biasanya satu tahun). Selain itu, untuk memperlihatkan peranan dari masing-masing daerah dan adanya saling ketergantungan antar daerah tersebut, juga digunakan Inter-Regional Input-Output (Tabel IRIO). Pada tulisan ini, daerah yang menjadi fokus analisis adalah Provinsi Sumatera Barat, dengan menggunakan Tabel I-O Sumatera Barat berukuran 17x17 lapangan usaha serta Tabel IRIO 17 lapangan usaha x 34 provinsi yang diperoleh dari publikasi Badan Pusat Statistik. Hasil analisis menunjukkan bahwa 4 lapangan usaha yang teridentifikasi sebagai nasional key sectors, dimana 3 lapangan usaha pertama juga merupakan local key sectors, yaitu: lapangan usaha Pengadaan Listrik dan Gas (D), Transportasi dan Pergudangan (H), Informasi dan Komunikasi (J) , serta Industri Pengolahan (C). Selain itu, jika terjadi perubahan permintaan akhir di Provinsi Sumatera Barat, maka provinsi yang akan menerima dampak limpahan (spillover output dan NTB) terbesar adalah ke provinsi-provinsi di Pulau Jawa dan Pulau Sumatera, terutama provinsi DKI Jakarta. Di sisi lain, Provinsi Sumatera Barat akan memperoleh dampak limpahan (spillover output dan NTB) terbesar jika terjadi perubahan permintaan akhir di provinsi-provinsi di Pulau Sumatera, terutama Provinsi Jambi.
Longitudinal Assessment of Cardiac Outcomes of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children Associated With COVID‐19 Infections
Authors: Matsubara Daisuke , Chang Joyce , Kauffman Hunter L. , Wang Yan , Nadaraj Sumekala , Patel Chandni , Paridon Stephen M. , Fogel Mark A. , Quartermain Michael D. , Banerjee Anirban
Published: January 2022

Background

In multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children, there is paucity of longitudinal data on cardiac outcomes. We analyzed cardiac outcomes 3 to 4 months after initial presentation using echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging.

Methods and Results

We included 60 controls and 60 cases of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children. Conventional echocardiograms and deformation parameters were analyzed at 4 time points: (1) acute phase (n=60), (2) subacute phase (n=50; median, 3 days after initial echocardiography), (3) 1‐month follow‐up (n=39; median, 22 days), and (4) 3‐ to 4‐month follow‐up (n=25; median, 91 days). Fourteen consecutive cardiac magnetic resonance imaging studies were reviewed for myocardial edema or fibrosis during subacute (n=5) and follow‐up (n=9) stages. In acute phase, myocardial injury was defined as troponin‐I level ≥0.09 ng/mL (>3 times normal) or brain‐type natriuretic peptide >800 pg/mL. All deformation parameters, including left ventricular global longitudinal strain, peak left atrial strain, longitudinal early diastolic strain rate, and right ventricular free wall strain, recovered quickly within the first week, followed by continued improvement and complete normalization by 3 months. Median time to normalization of both global longitudinal strain and left atrial strain was 6 days (95% CI, 3–9 days). Myocardial injury at presentation (70% of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children cases) did not affect short‐term outcomes. Four patients (7%) had small coronary aneurysms at presentation, all of which resolved. Only 1 of 9 patients had residual edema but no fibrosis by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging.

Conclusions

Our short‐term study suggests that functional recovery and coronary outcomes are good in multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children. Use of sensitive deformation parameters provides further reassurance that there is no persistent subclinical dysfunction after 3 months.
Chronic Covert Brain Infarctions and White Matter Hyperintensities in Patients With Stroke, Transient Ischemic Attack, and Stroke Mimic
Authors: Epstein Alessandra , Schilter Marina , Vynckier Jan , Kaesmacher Johannes , Mujanovic Adnan , Scutelnic Adrian , Beyeler Morin , Belachew Nebiyat Filate , Grunder Lorenz , Arnold Marcel , Seiffge David Julian , Jung Simon , Fischer Urs , Meinel Thomas Raphael
Published: January 2022

Background

This study was conducted to compare frequencies of chronic brain infarctions (CBIs) and white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) as well as their associations with established early recurrence risk scores in patients with transient ischemic attack (TIA) and stroke mimics compared with ischemic stroke.

Methods and Results

Single‐center cohort study including consecutive patients with TIA, stroke mimics, and acute ischemic stroke, with available magnetic resonance imaging from January 2015 to December 2017. Blinded raters adjudicated WMH (age‐related white matter changes score) and CBI according to established definitions. A total of 2112 patients (median [Q1–Q3] age 71 [59–80] years, 43% women, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score of 2 [1–7], 80% ischemic stroke, 18% TIA, 2% stroke mimics) were included. While CBIs were present in only 10% of patients with stroke mimic, they were detected in 28% of TIAs and 38% of ischemic strokes (
P
<0.001). WMHs were less pronounced (0, 0–1) in patients with stroke mimic, but there was no difference between TIA (1, 1–2) and ischemic stroke (0, 1–2) patients. CBIs (adjusted odds ratio, 0.3; 95% CI, 0.1–0.9) were associated with a lower rate of stroke mimic as the final diagnosis, while WMHs were not (adjusted odds ratio per point, 1.3; 95% CI, 0.7–2.2). WMH (β per point, 0.4; 95% CI, 0.3–0.6) and presence of CBI (β, 0.6; 95% CI, 0.3–0.9) were associated with a higher cardiovascular risk profile according to the ABCD3‐I score. The accuracy of prediction was good for high‐risk TIA (cross‐validated area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.79–0.93) on the basis of brain imaging, age, and sex.

Conclusions

CBI and WMH differ between patients with stroke mimic and patients with TIA/ischemic stroke and are closely associated with established recurrence risk scores. Prospective studies need to clarify whether including brain frailty markers may contribute to the refinement of current management algorithms and risk stratifications.
Rhinoplasty in a 3 Week Old: Surgical Challenges in the Setting of Severe Congenital Frontonasal Dysplasia
Authors: Lopez Alexis , Lyle Daniel A. , Brennan Tara E. , Bennett Erica
Published: January 2022

Objectives:

Congenital frontonasal dysplasia (CFND) is a rare heterogeneous collection of facial deformities. Due to the range of complexity, surgical management is not standardized.

Methods:

We present a severe case of CFND and approach to managing multiple defects with a focus on rhinoplasty.

Results:

This infant was born full term with a large mass instead of a nose, a bilateral cleft lip and palate, and hypertelorbitism. Our primary concerns initially were to address communication with the intracranial cavity, preserve a nasal lining, and improve nasal appearance and airway function in the short term without interfering with subsequent rhinoplasty and adult nasal appearance.

Conclusions:

This complex case of CFND is more severe than anything we encountered in our literature review and demonstrates the necessity for multidisciplinary approach to multiple craniofacial defects. Future plans for this patient include rhinoplasty with auricular graft, scar revision, and addressing tip support.