bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study on Public Adoption of Robo-Taxis in China
Authors: Liu Mingyu , Wu Jianping , Zhu Chunli , Hu Kezhen
Published: October 2020

Autonomous vehicles (AVs) have been reported to improve road safety, reduce traffic congestion, and increase urban mobility. However, the high price of AVs is currently a challenge for most consumers. Robo-taxi services, with ride-sharing services and AVs, are regarded as a good approach to solving this problem. As some companies have started testing Robo-taxis on the actual road, it has become important to investigate public adoption of Robo-taxi services before they are more widely introduced to the market. This study aims to explain and predict users’ acceptance of Robo-taxis by extending the Technology Acceptance Model by including the construct of social influence. Data were collected from an online survey in China and analyzed using linear regression models. The results indicate that perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and social influence have significant positive correlations with people’s behavior intentions to use Robo-taxis. Perceived ease of use further has an indirect effect on intention to use via perceived usefulness. The results of this study can serve as good references for policymakers, operators, and future transport researchers.
Vertical and Lateral Bearing Capacity of FRP Composite Sheet Piles in Soft Soil
Authors: Wang Zhe , Wu Shuwei , Weng Kaiwen , Yao Wangjing , Xu Sifa , Ding Zhouxiang
Published: October 2020

Fiber‐reinforced polymer (FRP) composite sheet piles are usually favored for slope and river‐retaining structures due to their construction and environmental efficiency. Their applications, however, have been hindered by the lack of understanding of the bearing capacity. This paper studies the vertical and lateral bearing capacity of FRP composite sheet piles through three full‐scale tests conducted in Haiyan, a soft soil site in the Yangtze River Delta of China. In the three tests, we measured the vertical bearing capacity of the FRP composite sheet piles, the bearing capacity of the composite foundation, and the lateral capacity of the FRP composite sheet piles, respectively. The test results show that the Q‐S (load on the top of the pile versus settlement) curve of the FRP composite sheet piles exhibits a steep fall while that of the composite foundation is relatively flat. Moreover, the ultimate bearing capacity of the FRP composite sheet piles is measured to reach 23.8 kN while that of the composite foundation increases by 47.1 %, reaching 35.0 kN. It shows that the FRP composite sheet piles under the composite foundation have a favorable bearing performance. Finally, the final horizontal displacement of the FRP composite sheet pile in the reinforced area with anchoring the sheet pile is smaller than the final horizontal displacement in the nonreinforced area, indicating that the horizontal bearing capacity can be significantly improved by anchoring the sheet pile.
Effect of Cuttlebone on Healing of Indomethacin‐Induced Acute Gastric Mucosal Lesions in Rats
Authors: Qiu Lifeng , Yao Lingya , Fang Yanfei , Wang Lan , Xue Meng , Lin Zhenghua , Chen Shujie , Si Jianmin
Published: October 2020

The continuing use of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) usually increases the side effects such as peptic ulcer and acute gastric lesions in the gastrointestinal tract. Cuttlebone (CB), isolated from Sepiella maindroni de Rochebrune, was reported to have antioxidant activities, but its role in the treatment of indomethacin‐induced gastric lesions has not yet been confirmed. In this research, we investigate the protective effect of cuttlebone on indomethacin‐related ulcers in rats and possible mechanisms. Here, gastric ulcers were induced by oral administration of indomethacin, and then the rats were treated with omeprazole (4 mg/kg) or different doses (750, 1500, and 3000 mg/kg of body weight) of cuttlebone. We evaluated lesion index, inflammation score, and a series of oxidant/antioxidant parameters. The data demonstrated that cuttlebone could protect against gastric ulcers induced by indomethacin in a dose‐dependent manner (positive correlation). Also, these effects were associated with attenuating the expression of malonaldehyde (MDA) and increasing the levels of some protective ingredients like epidermal growth factor (EGF), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Thus, considering its ability to protect indomethacin‐induced acute gastric mucosal lesions and the underlying mechanisms, CB might be a potential candidate for treating gastric damage caused by NSAIDs.
Cuando las paredes hablan. Rastros del estallido social en el metro Baquedano, Santiago de Chile
Authors: Márquez Francisca , Colimil Marcelo , Jara Daniela , Landeros Víctor , Martínez Catalina
Published: October 2020

El artículo explora las intervenciones gráficas plasmadas du­rante las manifestaciones y protestas sociales del estallido so­cial del 2019 y 2020 en los muros de la entrada norponiente de la estación del metro Baquedano ubicada en la comuna de Providencia, Santiago de Chile. A partir de técnicas proporcio­nadas por la arqueología y la etnografía se observaron, regis­traron y sistematizaron los motivos que se plasman sobre los muros de dicho inmueble a lo largo del tiempo. Así también, se identificaron los cambios materiales, sus capas y caracterís­ticas, para correlacionar dichas materialidades con su escena y llegar a una aproximación de los significados que allí se ex­presan. Se concluye que los diversos significados que allí se plasman entran en disputa a través de un uso performativo del espacio público. La disputa por la visibilidad, a través del emplazamiento y ensamblaje de las intervenciones gráficas en los muros, permite dar cuenta de la configuración de un paisaje de la protesta. Una protesta en la cual, por sobre la ira y la vio­lencia, se apela a idearios que dicen relación con el respeto y el sentido de justicia social.
¿Cómo se pintaba el trinacrio?: una aproximación a los modos de pintar en la cuenca del Maipo durante el período Intermedio Tardío (1000/1200-1450 d. C.)
Authors: Irrazabal Madariaga Luis
Published: October 2020

Este artículo tiene como objetivo mostrar una aproximación a las formas de pintar cerámica en los grupos Aconcagua de la cuenca del río Maipo durante el período Intermedio Tardío, enfocándose en el motivo iconográfico del trinacrio, el cual se utiliza para entender el grado en que los modos de hacer se compartieron entre estas poblaciones. Este motivo iconográfi­co se escogió para el análisis ya que está presente en la mayoría de la alfarería pintada de estos grupos. Para esto, se analizaron los motivos presentes en escudillas o pucos provenientes de seis sitios arqueológicos: Chicauma, Til Til, Huechún, María Pinto, Talagante y Alhué 01. Luego se comparan los resultados a nivel de sitio y a nivel de cuenca, tras lo cual se identificó una misma forma de pintar las piezas en los sitios de la cuenca del Maipo y una forma de pintar el trinacrio diferente en el sitio Alhué, concluyéndose que existe una interacción entre los gru­pos Aconcagua de la cuenca del Maipo, donde se comparten las técnicas empleadas para pintar las piezas.
Ch’allando cuentas para un buen viaje: objetos perforados prehispánicos en senderos del desierto de Atacama, Chile
Authors: Soto Rodríguez Catalina , Pimentel Guzmán Gonzalo
Published: October 2020

Se presentan los resultados del análisis de objetos perforados provenientes de senderos internodales prehispánicos vincula­dos con las localidades de Calama, Chuquicamata, Quillagua y Caleta Huelén, en la región de Antofagasta, Chile. En el texto se expone la clasificación tipológica del conjunto en la que es po­sible visualizar diferencias y similitudes asociadas a períodos específicos. Se discute la correspondencia de las piezas con las tipologías identificadas para diferentes períodos en el área ata­cameña, las dinámicas de circulación que estos objetos expo­nen y el rol de estas piezas en el contexto de las vías estudiadas.
The Evolution of Our Understanding of the Biology of Cancer Is the Key to Avoiding Overdiagnosis and Overtreatment
Authors: Hewitt Kelly , Son Jennifer , Glencer Alexa , Borowsky Alexander D. , Cooperberg Matthew R. , Esserman Laura J.
Published: October 2020

There has been a tremendous evolution in our thinking about cancer since the 1880s. Breast cancer is a particularly good example to evaluate the progress that has been made and the new challenges that have arisen due to screening that inadvertently identifies indolent lesions. The degree to which overdiagnosis is a problem depends on the reservoir of indolent disease, the disease heterogeneity, and the fraction of the tumors that have aggressive biology. Cancers span the spectrum of biological behavior, and population-wide screening increases the detection of tumors that may not cause harm within the patient's lifetime or may never metastasize or result in death. Our approach to early detection will be vastly improved if we understand, address, and adjust to tumor heterogeneity. In this article, we use breast cancer as a case study to demonstrate how the approach to biological characterization, diagnostics, and therapeutics can inform our approach to screening, early detection, and prevention. Overdiagnosis can be mitigated by developing diagnostics to identify indolent disease, incorporating biology and risk assessment in screening strategies, changing the pathology rules for tumor classification, and refining the way we classify precancerous lesions. The more the patterns of cancers can be seen across other cancers, the more it is clear that our approach should transcend organ of origin. This will be particularly helpful in advancing the field by changing both our terminology for what is cancer and also by helping us to learn how best to mitigate the risk of the most aggressive cancers.

See all articles in this CEBP Focus section, “NCI Early Detection Research Network: Making Cancer Detection Possible.”
Rising Prostate Cancer Incidence in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Trend Analysis of Data from the African Cancer Registry Network
Authors: Seraphin Tobias P. , Joko-Fru Walburga Y. , Kamaté Bakarou , Chokunonga Eric , Wabinga Henry , Somdyala Nontuthuzelo I.M. , Manraj Shyam S. , Ogunbiyi Olufemi J. , Dzamalala Charles P. , Finesse Anne , Korir Anne , N'Da Guy , Lorenzoni Cesaltina , Liu Biying , Kantelhardt Eva J. , Parkin Donald M.
Published: October 2020

Background:

Prostate cancer is the leading cancer in men in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) regarding incidence and mortality. Published data from a few registries in SSA suggest that the rates are still rising, but there is little comprehensive information on the time trends of prostate cancer incidence.

Methods:

We analyzed registry data on 13,170 incident prostate cancer cases in men aged 40 years or above, from 12 population-based cancer registries in 11 SSA countries, with at least a 10-year time span of comparable data.

Results:

We observed an increase in cumulative risks (CR) and age-standardized incidence rates (ASR) over time in all registries (statistically significant in all but one). The highest values of CR were found in Seychelles and Harare (Zimbabwe). The highest annual increase in the ASRs was seen in Seychelles and Eastern Cape (South Africa), whereas the lowest was seen in Mauritius. We mainly found a steady increase in incidence with age and during successive periods.

Conclusions:

This analysis reveals that prostate cancer incidence rates are rising in many populations in SSA—often very rapidly—which is in contrast to recent observations worldwide. We acknowledge that the reasons are multifactorial and largely remain unclear, but believe that they are primarily associated with improvements in health care systems, for example, a broader use of prostate-specific antigen testing.

Impact:

This study is the first to compare population-level data on time trends of prostate cancer incidence between multiple countries of SSA, presenting the different rates of increase in 11 of them.
Extracellular Matrix–Bound FGF2 Mediates Estrogen Receptor Signaling and Therapeutic Response in Breast Cancer
Authors: DiGiacomo Josh W. , Godet Inês , Trautmann-Rodriguez Michael , Gilkes Daniele M.
Published: October 2020

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is often unaccounted for in studies that consider the stromal contribution to cancer cell signaling and response to treatment. To investigate the influence of a fibrotic microenvironment, we use fibroblast-derived ECM scaffolds as a cell culture platform. We uncover that estrogen receptor–positive (ER+) breast cancer cells cultured within ECM-scaffolds have an increase in ER signaling that occurs via an MAPK-dependent, but estrogen-independent manner. The ECM acts as a reservoir by binding, enriching, and presenting growth factors to adjacent epithelial cells. We identified FGF2 as a specific ECM-bound factor that drives ER signaling. ER+ cells cultured on ECM matrices have reduced sensitivity to ER-targeted therapies. The sensitivity to ER-targeted therapy can be restored by inhibiting FGF2–FGFR1 binding. ECM–FGF2 complexes promote Cyclin D1 induction that prevents G1 arrest even in the presence of antiestrogens. This work demonstrates that the ECM can drive ER signaling and resistance to endocrine therapy, and suggests that patients with ER+ breast cancer that have high mammographic breast density may benefit from existing FGFR-targeted therapies.

Implications:

This work uncovers how the ECM may mediate signaling between growth factors and ER+ breast cancer cells to promote estrogen-independent ER signaling and resistance to endocrine therapy.
Atypical Manifestations of IgG4-Related Disease as Multiple Liver Abscesses with Subcapsular Tracts and Migratory Pulmonary Nodules Mimicking Parasitic Infection
Authors: Jandee Sawangpong , Boonsri Pattira
Published: October 2020

Immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a fibroinflammatory condition that becomes more recognized as multi-systemic disorders, characterized by three histological hallmarks of IgG4-positive lymphoplasmacytic tissue infiltrate, storiform fibrosis, and obliterative phlebitis. This disease has been reported in virtually every organ system, but the hepatic manifestations remain poorly defined. Moreover, IgG4-RD can mimic many malignancies, inflammatory disorders and infectious diseases. This report revealed IgG4-related liver disease with atypical presentation presenting with multiple liver abscesses and linear tracts mimicking parasitic infection.
Coronary Collateral Microcirculation Reserve Becomes Vestigial with Aging
Authors: Chen Jiali , Liu Xiucheng , Qin Xichun , Liu Zhiwei , Zhu Lidong , Quan Xiaoyu , Xu Zhiwei , Dong Hongyan , Zhang Zhongming
Published: October 2020

Introduction: Our previous study indicated that coronary collateral microcirculation reserve (CCMR), native collaterals, transports blood flow to an ischemic area to reduce ischemic tissue injury. This study aimed to observe the changes of CCMR in the hearts of different month-old rats. Methods: We selected 2-, 8-, 16-, and 24-month-old rats as the research objects to monitor the changes of CCMR in rats with aging. After acute myocardial infarction, lectin-FITC was injected into the femoral vein vessels of rats to mark CCMR vessels in the ischemic area. Results: Results of the lectin-FITC perfusion experiment indicated that the number and collagen IV coverage of CCMR vessels declined with aging. Moreover, data suggested a correlation between endothelial nitric oxide synthase and a decline in the number of CCMR vessels. Conclusion: Aging causes CCMR decline in rats.
The Efficacy of Everolimus for Facial Angiofibromas in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex Patients Treated for Renal Angiomyolipoma/Subependymal Giant Cell Astrocytoma
Authors: Wei Chang-Ching , Hsiao Yu-Ping , Gau Shuo-Yan , Wu Yue-Ting , Wu Chi-Tang , Wu Meng-Hsuan , Tsai Jeng-Dau
Published: October 2020

Background: Facial angiofibromas may be present since early childhood in individuals with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), causing substantial cosmetic disfigurement. Current therapies are partially effective, but they are uncomfortable, produce scarring, and are especially expensive. Objective: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of oral everolimus for TSC-associated angiofibromas. Methods: This retrospective study included TSC patients being treated with oral everolimus for subependymal giant cell astrocytomas (SEGAs) and angiomyolipomas (AMLs). We recorded the changes in facial angiofibromas. Changes in the Angiofibroma Grading Scale (AGS) indicators were recorded according to erythema, average lesion size, lesion density, and percent involvement on the forehead, nose, cheeks, and chin. The scores were recorded before and after the administration of oral everolimus. Results: Twenty-one patients being treated with oral everolimus were enrolled in this study. The mean age was 20.5 years (range 11–44 years, 4 males, and 17 females). The mean dose of oral everolimus was 3.6 mg/day. Clinically meaningful and statistically significant improvement was observed in erythema (p = 0.001), average lesion size (p < 0.001), lesion density (p < 0.001), and percent involvement (p < 0.001). Changes in the AGS findings were statistically significant on the forehead (p = 0.001), nose (p < 0.001) cheeks (p < 0.001), and chin (p = 0.004). Conclusion: Everolimus shows evident improvement and is approved for TSC-associated SEGAs and AMLs. The current study demonstrated the efficacy of oral everolimus in reducing facial angiofibromas, showing the parallel benefits of the treatment protocol for TSC.
Chest Pain after Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Esophageal Cancer: The Simple and Clinically Useful Surrogate Marker for Transmural Thermal Injury by Electrocoagulation
Authors: Sakai Makoto , Sohda Makoto , Saito Hideyuki , Ubukata Yasunari , Nakazawa Nobuhiro , Kuriyama Kengo , Hara Keigo , Sano Akihiko , Ogata Kyoichi , Yokobori Takehiko , Kuwano Hiroyuki , Shirabe Ken , Saeki Hiroshi
Published: October 2020

Background: Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) of early esophageal cancer (EC) is becoming more widespread. Post-ESD coagulation syndrome (CS) has been proposed as temporary inflammatory signs that occur during the post-ESD period caused by transmural thermal injury by electrocoagulation. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the association between chest pain and abnormal levels of inflammatory markers during the post-esophageal ESD period. We also investigate the clinical importance of chest pain to define the post-esophageal ESD CS. Methods: We examined 42 patients with thoracic EC who underwent ESD. Results: The incidence of chest pain after esophageal ESD is 35.7% and associated with elevation of WBC count on postoperative day 1 (WBC day 1) (p = 0.022). Multivariate logistic regression analysis using the procedure-related factors revealed that WBC day 1 was an independent predictive factor for chest pain (p = 0.034). The elevation of WBC count is associated with the resected esophageal circumference (p for trend = 0.018), specimen size (p = 0.031), and procedural time (p = 0.004). The incidence of post-esophageal ESD CS was estimated ranging from 11.9 to 54.8% using previously reported criteria. Conclusions: The incidence of chest pain after ESD was only associated with postoperative elevation of WBC day 1. In considering the elevation of WBC count associated with procedure-related factors, chest pain possibly reflected transmural thermal injury by electrocoagulation during ESD. Post-esophageal ESD chest pain is a simple and clinically useful surrogate marker for transmural thermal injury and is a vital sign of post-esophageal ESD CS.
Identification of Potential Hub Genes and Therapeutic Drugs in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma by Integrated Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Zhang Xiangxin , Yang Liu , Chen Wei , Kong Ming
Published: October 2020

Introduction: Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is closely linked to asbestos exposure and is an extremely aggressive tumor with poor prognosis. Objective: Our study aimed to elucidate hub genes and potential drugs in MPM by integrated bioinformatics analysis. Methods: GSE42977 was download from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database; the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with adj.p value <0.05 and |logFC| ≥2 were identified. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were performed by DAVID database. The STRING database was used to construct a protein-protein interaction network, and modules analysis and hub genes acquisition were performed by Cytoscape. The Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) database was used to assess the impact of hub genes on the prognosis of MPM patients. The Drug-Gene Interaction database (DGIdb) was used to select the related drugs. Results: A total of 169 upregulated and 70 downregulated DEGs were identified. These DEGs are enriched in the pathway of extracellular matrix-receptor interaction, focal adhesion, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, and PPAR signaling pathway. Finally, 10 hub genes (CDC20, CDK1, UBE2C, TOP2A, CCNB2, NUSAP1, KIF20A, AURKA, CEP55, and ASPM) were identified, which are considered to be closely related to the poor prognosis of MPM. In addition, 119 related drugs that may have a therapeutic effect on MPM were filtered out. Conclusion: These discovered genes and small-molecule drugs provide some new ideas for further research on MPM.
The Coronavirus Chasm in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Report of Patient-Centered Care at a Hospital in Northern Portugal
Authors: Lago Paula , Caetano Cidalina , Ferreira Daniela , Salgado Marta , Pedroto Isabel
Published: October 2020

Introduction:Although patient-centered care can be found in the mission statement of nearly every hospital, it is not always put into practice, and COVID-19 brings new challenges even to the best-organized hospitals and well-developed health care systems. Methods:In the current COVID-19 pandemic, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients have a potentially higher risk of complications from this infectious disease due to the use of immunosuppressant and/or biologic treatments and due to flares of this chronic illness, which often require urgent care and sometimes hospitalization. Moreover, patients undergoing biologic intravenous (IV) treatment visit the hospital for scheduled IV infusions. Discussion: In hospitals like ours, where COVID-19 patients are treated, the organization of “clean circuits” is essential to minimize the risks of infection for non-COVID-19 patients, such as patients in IBD infusion units. In our hospital, the IBD infusion unit is located within the gastroenterology department, which, under normal circumstances, is very advantageous for patients but in the current context is not. Our goal was to maximize adherence to biologic IV treatment and clinical safety at a time of profound changes in gastroenterology activity and in a department with daily increases in the number of COVID-19 patients. Conclusion:To this end, we initiated proactive COVID-19 testing in IBD patients undergoing biologic IV treatment and changed the location of the infusion unit to a “COVID-free” institution, maintaining the care of these patients by the dedicated IBD team of our department. The purpose of this report is to show that a patient-centered care strategy allowed us to reach very high levels of patient comfort, satisfaction, and compliance with therapeutics.
Formation of IgE-Allergen-CD23 Complex Changes in Children Treated with Subcutaneous Immunotherapy for Japanese Cedar Pollinosis
Authors: Asaumi Tomoyuki , Sato Sakura , Yanagida Noriyuki , Matsuhara Hiroki , Kobayashi Satoko , Fukano Chiharu , Ohashi-Doi Katsuyo , Ebisawa Motohiro
Published: October 2020

Background: Subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) is used to treat Japanese cedar (JC) pollinosis. The formation of IgE-allergen-CD23 complex after SCIT for JC pollinosis has not yet been fully elucidated. Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the formation of IgE-allergen-CD23 complex after SCIT for JC pollinosis. Methods: Eleven patients were treated with 3-year SCIT for JC pollinosis at Sa­gamihara National Hospital from 2013 to 2014. Nasal and ocular symptoms (in terms of symptom scores) during the scattering of JC pollen and immunological changes were investigated. Levels of JC pollen-specific antibodies (IgE and IgG4) were measured by ImmunoCAP assays. To detect the changes in allergen-presenting ability of B cells, the levels of IgE-allergen-CD23 complexes in serum were measured by a cell-free, enzyme-linked immunosorbent-facilitated antigen-binding assay. Results: The median (interquartile range) age of the subjects was 8 (6–10) years. Three patients (27%) had comorbid atopic dermatitis, and 5 patients (45%) had comorbid bronchial asthma. Before starting SCIT, the total IgE level was 373 (75–2,870) kU/L, and the level of JC pollen-specific IgE was 77.2 (15.4–528) kUA/L. Symptom scores improved significantly from the year after treatment. JC pollen-specific IgE levels did not change after 3 years of treatment. JC pollen-specific IgG4 levels increased significantly throughout the treatment period. The levels of IgE-allergen-CD23 complexes decreased significantly after 3 years of treatment. Conclusion: The ability of IgE-allergen complexes to bind to CD23 decreased after SCIT, suggesting that increasing levels of IgE-blocking antibodies, including IgG4, may play an important role in the mechanism of SCIT.
Effects of Hyperuricemia on Beta-Cell Function, Renal Function, and Lipid Panels of Patients with Diabetic Kidney Disease: A Gender-Based Retrospective Study
Authors: Rajkarnikar Prateek , Xu Yancheng , Bhattarai Arun
Published: October 2020

Objective: Serum uric acid (SUA) has been linked with development and progression of diabetic kidney disease (DKD). In this study, we intend to compare the effects of hyperuricemia (HUA) on beta-cell function, renal function, and lipid panels of patients with DKD. Methods: A total of 492 patients with DKD were included for data collection and analysis. Males and females have different standard SUA levels; thus, we analyzed these 2 groups separately. Normouricemia (NUA) for men (n = 253) was ≤428 μmol/L and for women (n = 83) was ≤357 μmol/L, whereas HUA for men (n = 94) was >428 μmol/L and for women (n = 62) was >357 μmol/L. Clinical characteristics of patients were analyzed based on gender-specific NUA and HUA. The Spearman rank correlation test was used to evaluate the correlation between SUA and other clinical variables. Finally, stepwise multinomial logistic regression test was performed to identify the factors that are independently associated with HUA. Results: A total of 492 patients were included in this study. The regression analysis showed that there was a significant association between HUA and decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in both male and female patients (odds ratio (OR) [95% confidence interval (CI)] = 4.73 [2.19–10.24], p value ≤0.01 in male patients and OR [95% CI] = 3.07 [], p value = 0.04 in female patients). FBG, 2hPBG, and HbA1c were negatively correlated with SUA in male patients (r = −0.182, p value ≤0.01; r = −0.168, p value ≤0.01; and r = −0.187, p value ≤0.01, respectively), whereas fasting insulin was positively correlated in male patients (r = 0.131, p value = 0.023) and female patients (r = 0.192, p value = 0.041). The atherogenic index of plasma was significantly high in patients with HUA (OR [95% CI] = 5.75 [2.32–14.23], p value ≤0.01 in male patients and OR [95% CI] = 8.37 [1.96–35.78], p value ≤0.01 in female patients). Other indices of lipid profile such as lipoprotein combine index, atherosclerosis index, and triglyceride/high-density lipoprotein ratio were also independently associated with HUA in both male and female patients. Conclusion: SUA can affect various clinical parameters in patients with DKD. There is a significant association between HUA and decline in eGFR in both male and female patients. HUA is also associated with dyslipidemia in DKD, increasing the risk of cardiac complications and mortality.
Lenvatinib-Induced Tumor-Related Hemorrhages in Patients with Large Hepatocellular Carcinomas
Authors: Uchida-Kobayashi Sawako , Kageyama Ken , Yamamoto Akira , Ikenaga Hiroko , Yoshida Kanako , Kotani Kohei , Kimura Kenjiro , Odagiri Naoshi , Hagihara Atsushi , Fujii Hideki , Enomoto Masaru , Tamori Akihiro , Kubo Shoji , Miki Yukio , Kawada Norifumi
Published: October 2020

Introduction: Lenvatinib has been approved as a systemic therapy for patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We recently experienced lenvatinib-induced tumor-related hemorrhage in patients with HCC. The full details of tumor-related hemorrhage as a lenvatinib-related adverse event have not been elucidated. Methods: This was a retrospective single-center study that enrolled consecutive patients treated with lenvatinib for unresectable HCC from April 2018 to February 2020. Results: Sixty-eight consecutive patients were enrolled in this study. Among them, 5 cases developed intraperitoneal or intratumoral hemorrhages. The patients with hemorrhage had larger tumors (maximum tumor size, 97.5 ± 46.4 and 38.2 ± 28.8 mm, respectively; p = 0.009) than the patients without hemorrhage. The dosing period of lenvatinib (median, 3 and 93 days, respectively; p < 0.001) and the survival time from initial administration of lenvatinib (median, 77 and 495 days, respectively; p < 0.001) of the patients with hemorrhage were shorter than those of the patients without hemorrhage. Especially, in 4 cases with large HCCs (maximum tumor diameter was >90 mm), tumor hemorrhage with vascular lake-like phenomenon was evident, although most tumor blood flow was suppressed. Discussion/Conclusion: It becomes clear that lenvatinib treatment brings about tumor-related hemorrhages despite rapid suppression of tumor blood flow. We speculate that lenvatinib quickly blocks the feeding circulation, resulting in tumor hemorrhage by necrosis. Clinicians should pay careful attention to the development of life-threatening hemorrhages when treating large HCCs with lenvatinib.
Protection of Medical Staff during Tracheotomy: Lessons Learned from the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Lee Dong-Hyun , Kim Subin , Kim Ji-Sun , Kim Byung Guk , Chang Ki-Hong , Park Jun-Ook
Published: October 2020

Background: During the ongoing pandemic of COVID-19, tracheotomy under emergency situation is considered a high-risk procedure that causes probable expose to aerosolized secretion. Summary: We reviewed our case and previous reports, and summarized a detailed protocol that is needed to protect medical staffs who perform tracheotomy under the COVID-19 pandemic, considering the patient’s condition, experience of medical staff members, and available facilities and equipment. Key Messages: For efficient protection of medical staff who perform tracheotomy under the COVID-19 pandemic period, we suggest that the following needs to be considered: assessment of patient’s condition (COVID-19 infection and the airway problem), route (safest route to the operating room), experienced surgical team, negative-pressure isolation facility and appliance (personal protective equipment) availability, and safe and appropriate post-tracheotomy care.
Dual Axis Solar Tracking System for Solar Panel
Authors: Singh Purnima , Pahuja Roop , Karwasra Meghavi , Beniwal Sunita , Bansal Meenakshi , Dadhich Anamika
Published: October 2020

Sustainable energy systems are necessary for the economic growth and a healthy environment. India is currently suffering from an economic slump and acute fuel shortage. To overcome these issues the use of renewable energy resources needs to be enhanced manifold. The main purpose of this paper is to present a tracking system which will cause better alignment of solar panel with sunlight and to harvest solar power. The proposed system changes its direction in two axis to trace the coordinate of sunlight by detecting change in light intensity through light dependent resistors. Hardware testing of the proposed system is done for checking the system ability to track and follow the sunlight in an efficient way. Dual axis solar tracking system superiority over stationary solar panel is also presented.
Extracting Double Diode Model Parameters Based on Cross Entropy Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Sabri Latifa , Benzirar Mohammed , Zazoui Mimoun
Published: October 2020

A Cross Entropy (CE) optimization technique is suggested in this study in order to extract the optimal parameters of solar cell model. The solar cell model namely Double diode model, is used in this paper in the purpose to verify the proposed method. The seven unknown parameters of double diode model are: the photo-generated current, the diffusion current, saturation current, the series resistance, the shunt resistance, the diffusion ideality factor and recombination diode ideality factor. These parameters were used to determine the corresponding maximum power point (MPP) from the illuminated current–voltage (I–V) characteristic. The metaheuristic algorithms have created a center of attention due to the non-linearity of the solar cell models and the incapability of traditional optimization methods to precisely extract the parameters. Different cases and studies have been done to identify the unknown parameters of the solar cell double model. The efficiency of CE algorithm is investigated by comparing this method with various and different other techniques. This comparison is done using statistical indicators and analysis such as: mean absolute bias error, root mean square error and coefficient of determination. The results show that CE is a very efficient technique to identify the electrical parameters of the PV solar cells and modules.
DFPI-based Control of the DC-bus Voltage and the AC-side Current of a Shunt Active Power Filter
Authors: Elhaj Nabil , Sedra M. Brahim , Djeghloud Hind
Published: October 2020

The current paper presents a continuation of an earlier research and purposes to enhance the performances of the studied system. While the double fuzzy PI (DFPI) control was applied only on the DC capacitor bus in a previous work it is applied here also on the output current of shunt active power filter (SAPF). The nonlinear load disrupts the electrical distribution system by the generation of harmonics, which requires an efficient SAPF intervention to minimize the effects of harmonics on the network and provide electrical energy conforms to international standards. The design and simulation of this work were performed under MATLAB/Simulink environment. The carried-out simulation results demonstrate a satisfactory regulation both for the output current of the SAPF and the DC bus voltage. Furthermore the power quality is improved since a near-unity power factor and very low rates of imbalance of both source voltages and currents are obtained.
A Survey on Wireless Network Simulators
Authors: Singh Toor Amanjot , Jain A. K.
Published: October 2020

The Network simulator helps the developer to create and simulate new models on an arbitrary network by specifying both the behavior of the network nodes and the communication channels. It provides a virtual environment for an assortment of desirable features such as modeling a network based on a specific criteria and analyzing its performance under different scenarios. This saves cost and time required for testing the functionality and the execution of network. This paper has surveyed various Wireless Network Simulators and compared them.
On-chip Generation of Functional Tests with Reduced Delay and Power
Authors: Kumar Motamarri Hemanth , Kumari B. Leela
Published: October 2020

This paper describes different methods  on-chip test generation method for functional tests. The hardware was based on application of primary input sequences in order to allow the circuit to produce reachable states. Random primary input sequences were modeled to avoid repeated synchronization and thus yields varied sets of reachable states by implementing a decoder in between circuit and LFSR. The on-chip generation of functional tests require simple hardware and achieved high transition fault coverage for testable circuits. Further, power and delay can be reduced by using Bit Swapping LFSR (BS-LFSR). This technique yields less number of transitions for all pattern generation. Bit-swapping (BS) technique is less complex and more reliable to hardware miscommunications.
Smart Integrated Payment System for Public Transportation in Jakarta
Authors: Spits Warnars Harco Leslie Hendric , Lanita Yulia , Prasetyo Andhika , Randriatoamanana Richard
Published: October 2020

Jakarta has many types of public transportation such as Kereta Rel Listrik (KRL), Transjakarta, taxi, angkot, metromini, mikrolet, bajaj, ojek, etc. But, there are some problems that happen in public transportation where the people don’t want to use public transportation and choose to use private transportation that cause more traffic in Jakarta. The problems of public transportation are in the facility which is still inappropriate, unclear information, uncomfortable, bad accessibility of public transportation which take more time to reach the destination, more complicated than taking the private transportation, and about the society, people don’t want to be labeled as low-class level. This paper is representing how to make the better system for public transportation in Jakarta with smart integrated payment system. Aim of this system is to encourage people to use public transportation rather than private transportation. The payment system that proposed are using smartphone application by scanning the QR Code or using smart card. User can easily pay through application by scanning QR code to pay the public transportation. The proposed of this smart integrated payment system will have opportunity as profit when collaborate with business when they can advertise their business and get customer from our user.
Context Based Classification of Reviews Using Association Rule Mining, Fuzzy Logics and Ontology
Authors: Sulthana A Razia , Ramasamy Subburaj
Published: October 2020

The Internet has facilitated the growth of recommendation system owing to the ease of sharing customer experiences online. It is a challenging task to summarize and streamline the online textual reviews. In this paper, we propose a new framework called Fuzzy based contextual recommendation system. For classification of customer reviews we extract the information from the reviews based on the context given by users. We use text mining techniques to tag the review and extract context. Then we find out the relationship between the contexts from the ontological database. We incorporate fuzzy based semantic analyzer to find the relationship between the review and the context when they are not found therein. The sentence based classification predicts the relevant reviews, whereas the fuzzy based context method predicts the relevant instances among the relevant reviews. Textual analysis is carried out with the combination of association rules and ontology mining. The relationship between review and their context is compared using the semantic analyzer which is based on the fuzzy rules.
Stability Control Structure of Hovercraft Prototype Utilising PID Controller
Authors: Rao. Yenugula Bhaskara , Zia-ur-Rahman Md.
Published: October 2020

Hovercraft is a method of transportation as an option for clients who remain on the waterway and swamp surface. The issue with hovercraft is when dubious climate and natural condition, e.g. wind speed and wave tallness exasperate solidness of hovercraft to jeopardise the driver. We propose an approach to keep up adjust of the hovercraft by controlling the focal point of gravity (PG) to be determined position. The controller monitors the position of load to change the position. A 6-DOF IMU Sensor MPU 6050 was utilised to create information as an examination with setpoint. PID control strategy was employed. The test outcome demonstrates that the model of air cushion vehicle could keep its adjust the axis orientation of the roll in spite of the fact that it was less compelling in the pitch pivot direction.
Objective and Subjective Evaluations of Adaptive Noise Cancellation Systems with Selectable Algorithms for Speech Intelligibility
Authors: M. Ramil Roshahliza , Abdul Samad Salina , O. Abid Noor Ali
Published: October 2020

Adaptive Noise Cancellation (ANC) systems with selectable algorithms refer to ANC systems that are able to change the adaptation algorithm based on the eigenvalue spread of the noise. These systems can have dual inputs based on the conventional ANC structure or a single input based on the Adaptive Line Enhancer (ALE) structure. This paper presents a comparison of the performance of these two systems using objective and subjective measurements for speech intelligibility. The parameters used to objectively compare the systems are the Mean Square Error (MSE) and the output Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR). For subjective evaluation, listening tests were evaluated using the Mean Opinion Score (MOS) technique. The outcomes demonstrate that for both objective and subjection evaluations, the single input ALE with selectable algorithms (S-ALE) system outperforms that of the dual input ANC with selectable algorithm (S-ANC) in terms of better steady-state MSE by 10%, higher SNR values for most types of noise, higher scores in most of the questions in the MOS questionnaire and a higher acceptance rate for speech quality.
Newly Developed Nonlinear Vehicle Model for an Active Anti-roll Bar System
Authors: Binti Zulkarnain Noraishikin , Zamzuri Hairi , ’Atifah Saruchi Sarah , Marzuki Mustafa Mohd , Salasiah Mokri Siti , Wahid Nurbaiti , Nor Zawani Ahmmad Siti , Jedi Alias
Published: October 2020

This paper presents the development of a newly developed nonlinear vehicle model is used in the validation process of the vehicle model. The parameters chosen in a newly developed vehicle model is developed based on CARSIM vehicle model by using non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm version II (NSGA-II) optimization method. The ride comfort and handling performances have been one of the main objective to fulfil the expectation of customers in the vehicle development. Full nonlinear vehicle model which consists of ride, handling and Magic tyre subsystems has been derived and developed in MATLAB/Simulink. Then, optimum values of the full nonlinear vehicle parameters are investigated by using NSGA-II. The two objective functions are established based on RMS error between simulation and benchmark system. A stiffer suspension provides good stability and handling during manoeuvres while softer suspension gives better ride quality. The final results indicated that the newly developed nonlinear vehicle model is behaving accurately with input ride and manoeuvre. The outputs trend are successfully replicated.
Improving Consistency of UML Diagrams and Its Implementation Using Reverse Engineering Approach
Authors: Kaliappan Vasanthi , Mohd Ali Norhayati
Published: October 2020

Software development deals with various changes and evolution that cannot be avoided due to the development processes which are vastly incremental and iterative. In Model Driven Engineering, inconsistency between model and its implementation has huge impact on the software development process in terms of added cost, time and effort. The later the inconsistencies are found, it could add more cost to the software project. Thus, this paper aims to describe the development of a tool that could improve the consistency between Unified Modeling Language (UML) design models and its C# implementation using reverse engineering approach. A list of consistency rules is defined to check vertical and horizontal consistencies between structural (class diagram) and behavioral (use case diagram and sequence diagram) UML diagrams against the implemented C# source code. The inconsistencies found between UML diagrams and source code are presented in a textual description and visualized in a tree view structure.
Basic Robotecnical Platform for Implementation of Accurate Farming Technologies
Authors: I. Tchernyshev N. , E. Sysoev O. , B. Solovev D. , P. Kiselyov E.
Published: October 2020

Improvement of modern technical systems and technologies. Increasing the productivity of modern agricultural machines with increasing their weight, which leads, in the course of their work, to a significant compaction of the soil. The heterogeneity of the soil, as a bearing surface, causes not adjustable fluctuations in the workplace, which makes automation of the application of robotics more difficult. Modern solutions to the problems of reducing the negative impact on the soil, increasing the permeability of aggregates due to the reconstruction of the propulsors do not give the proper effect. More cardinally solve these problems, as well as the ability to implement automation and robotics bridge systems such as ABAC, moving along rail tracks, AASP on vertical piles and point gravel-halide supports with concrete platforms. The most promising of these is the AAS platform, which is a 30x10 m bridge structure that moves by step-by-step extension, the beams onto 3 subsequent pads located 10 m away. After entering the new position of the bridge platform, along the long 30-meter span beams Moves the work-technological module with a set of working elements, performing the programmed operations. Thus, in the AASP bridge system under consideration, the soil area subjected to compaction at reference points is just over 1% of the 70% protraction of modern machines. Compared to the ABAC system, moving along railways, the equipment of point supports is much less expensive and requires insignificant operating costs. At the same time, the rigidity of AASP design ensures stable operation of technological mechanisms in a programmed robotic mode with a minimum of unproductive energy costs associated with movement.
Endogenous THBD (Thrombomodulin) Mediates Angiogenesis in the Ischemic Brain—Brief Report
Authors: Wenzel Jan , Spyropoulos Dimitrios , Assmann Julian Christopher , Khan Mahtab Ahmad , Stölting Ines , Lembrich Beate , Kreißig Sara , Ridder Dirk Andreas , Isermann Berend , Schwaninger Markus
Published: October 2020

Objective:

THBD (thrombomodulin) is part of the anticoagulant protein C-system that acts at the endothelium and is involved in anti-inflammatory and barrier-stabilizing processes. A recombinant soluble form of THBD was shown to have protective effects in different organs, but how the endogenous THBD is regulated during ischemia, particularly in the brain is not known to date. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of THBD, especially in brain endothelial cells, during ischemic stroke.

Approach and Results:

To induce ischemic brain damage, we occluded the middle cerebral artery of mice. We found an increased endothelial expression of
Thbd
in the peri-infarct area, whereas in the core of the ischemic tissue
Thbd
expression was decreased compared with the contralateral side. We generated a novel Cre/loxP-based mouse line that allows for the inducible deletion of
Thbd
specifically in brain endothelial cells, which worsened stroke outcome 48 hours after middle cerebral artery occlusion. Unexpectedly, we found no signs of increased coagulation, thrombosis, or inflammation in the brain but decreased vessel diameters and impaired angiogenesis in the peri-infarct area that led to a reduced overall vessel length 1 week after stroke induction.

Conclusions:

Endogenous THBD acts as a protective factor in the brain during ischemic stroke and enhances vessel diameter and proliferation. These previously unknown properties of THBD could offer new opportunities to affect vessel function after ischemia and thereby improve stroke outcome.