bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Precise Subtyping for Asynchronous Multiparty Sessions
Authors: Ghilezan Silvia , Pantović Jovanka , Prokić Ivan , Scalas Alceste , Yoshida Nobuko
Published: October 2022

Session subtyping is a cornerstone of refinement of communicating processes: A process implementing a session type (i.e., a communication protocol)
T
can be safely used whenever a process implementing one of its supertypes
T
′ is expected, in any context, without introducing deadlocks nor other communication errors. As a consequence, whenever
T
≤
T
′ holds, it is safe to replace an implementation of 
T
′ with an implementation of the subtype
T
, which may allow for more optimised communication patterns. We present the first formalisation of the
precise
subtyping relation for
asynchronous multiparty
sessions. We show that our subtyping relation is
sound
(i.e., guarantees safe process replacement, as outlined above) and also
complete
: Any extension of the relation is unsound. To achieve our results, we develop a novel
session decomposition
technique, from
full
session types (including internal/external choices) into
single input/output session trees
(without choices). We cover
multiparty
sessions with
asynchronous
interaction, where messages are transmitted via FIFO queues (as in the TCP/IP protocol), and prove that our subtyping is both operationally and denotationally precise. Our session decomposition technique expresses the subtyping relation as a composition of refinement relations between single input/output trees and provides a simple reasoning principle for asynchronous message optimisations.
Witnesses for Answer Sets of Logic Programs
Authors: Wang Yisong , Eiter Thomas , Zhang Yuanlin , Lin Fangzhen
Published: October 2022

In this article, we consider Answer Set Programming (ASP). It is a declarative problem solving paradigm that can be used to encode a problem as a logic program whose answer sets correspond to the solutions of the problem. It has been widely applied in various domains in AI and beyond. Given that answer sets are supposed to yield solutions to the original problem, the question of “why a set of atoms is an answer set” becomes important for both semantics understanding and program debugging. It has been well investigated for normal logic programs. However, for the class of disjunctive logic programs, which is a substantial extension of that of normal logic programs, this question has not been addressed much. In this article, we propose a notion of reduct for disjunctive logic programs and show how it can provide answers to the aforementioned question. First, we show that for each answer set, its reduct provides a resolution proof for each atom in it. We then further consider minimal sets of rules that will be sufficient to provide resolution proofs for sets of atoms. Such sets of rules will be called witnesses and are the focus of this article. We study complexity issues of computing various witnesses and provide algorithms for computing them. In particular, we show that the problem is tractable for normal and headcycle-free disjunctive logic programs, but intractable for general disjunctive logic programs. We also conducted some experiments and found that for many well-known ASP and SAT benchmarks, computing a minimal witness for an atom of an answer set is often feasible.
XEngine: Optimal Tensor Rematerialization for Neural Networks in Heterogeneous Environments
Authors: Schuler Manuela , Membarth Richard , Slusallek Philipp
Published: October 2022

Memory efficiency is crucial in training deep learning networks on resource-restricted devices. During backpropagation, forward tensors are used to calculate gradients. Despite the option of keeping those dependencies in memory until they are reused in backpropagation, some forward tensors can be discarded and recomputed later from saved tensors, so-called
checkpoints
. This allows, in particular, for resource-constrained heterogeneous environments to make use of all available compute devices. Unfortunately, the definition of these checkpoints is a non-trivial problem and poses a challenge to the programmer—improper or excessive recomputations negate the benefit of checkpointing.

   In this article, we present XEngine, an approach that schedules network operators to heterogeneous devices in low memory environments by determining checkpoints and recomputations of tensors. Our approach selects suitable resources per timestep and operator and optimizes the end-to-end time for neural networks taking the memory limitation of each device into account. For this, we formulate a mixed-integer quadratic program (MIQP) to schedule operators of deep learning networks on heterogeneous systems. We compare our MIQP solver XEngine against Checkmate [
12
], a mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) approach that solves recomputation on a single device. Our solver finds solutions that are up to 22.5% faster than the fastest Checkmate schedule in which the network is computed exclusively on a single device. We also find valid schedules for networks making use of both central processing units and graphics processing units if memory limitations do not allow scheduling exclusively to the graphics processing unit.
Silicon-correlated Simulation Methodology of EM Side-channel Leakage Analysis
Authors: Monta Kazuki , Lin Lang , Wen Jimin , Shrivastav Harsh , Chow Calvin , Chen Hua , Geada Joao , Chowdhury Sreeja , Pundir Nitin , Chang Norman , Nagata Makoto
Published: October 2022

Cryptography hardware is vulnerable to side-channel (SC) attacks on power supply current flow and electromagnetic (EM) emission. This article proposes simulation-based power and EM side-channel leakage analysis (SCLA) techniques on a cryptographic integrated circuit (IC) chip in system level assembly. SCLA measures SC leakage metrics including T-score, SC leakage score, and the number of measurement traces to disclosure, leveraged by a secure system-on-chip design flow toward SC attack resiliency and SC leakage sign off. Power SCLA features the tracking of security sensitive registers within cryptographic logic paths and the automatic assignments of probe points on associated physical power nets. Power supply current traces are efficiently simulated for the large set of input payloads, with direct vector-based and vector-less random switching controls. EM SCLA evaluates magnetic fields created by every piece of metal wiring in metal stacks where power supply current of cryptographic processing flows. The EM emission and EM SCLA from the backside Si surface of an IC chip in flip-chip packaging are experimentally examined with a 0.13 μm test chip. The proposed simulation-based SCLA exhibits the SC leakage metrics of on-chip location and direction dependency as accurately as in the measurements.
Modeling of Reversible Solid Oxide Cell Stacks with an Open-Source Library
Authors: Zhang Shidong , Peters Roland , Varghese Bob , Deja Robert , Kruse Nicolas , Beale Steven B. , Blum Ludger , Peters Ralf , Eichel Rüdiger-A.
Published: October 2022

This work describes a recently-developed numerical model for three-dimensional, steady-state simulations of reversible solid oxide cell (rSOC) stacks, taking into account a heterogeneous temperature field. The model employs a volume-averaged approach, also referred to as the distributed resistance analogy. It considers fluid flow, multi-component species diffusion, as well as heat and mass transfer, including thermal radiation and electrochemical reactions. The implementation of the computational model is based on an open-source library, OpenFOAM. An in-house designed rSOC stack, Mark-H is considered. Simulations are performed for repeating units with a 320 cm2 active area, with both the present stack model and a one-dimensional Simulink model. Both models predict very similar voltages, with a maximum difference of 2% compared to experimental results. The present model shows a temperature distribution closer to the experimental data than the Simulink model, although a slightly longer simulation time is required.
A Surface Modification Strategy Towards Reversible Na-ion Intercalation on Graphitic Carbon Using Fluorinated Few-Layer Graphene
Authors: Sarbapalli Dipobrato , Lin Yu-Hsiu , Stafford Sean , Son Jangyup , Mishra Abhiroop , Hui Jingshu , Nijamudheen A , Romo Adolfo I. B. , Gossage Zachary T. , van der Zande Arend M. , Mendoza-Cortes Jose L. , Rodríguez-López Joaquín
Published: October 2022

Na-ion batteries (NIBs) are proposed as a promising candidate for beyond Li-ion chemistries, however, a key challenge associated with NIBs is the inability to achieve intercalation in graphite anodes. This phenomenon has been investigated and is believed to arise due to the thermodynamic instability of Na-intercalated graphite. We have recently demonstrated theoretical calculations showing it is possible to achieve thermodynamically stable Na-intercalated graphene structures with a fluorine surface modifier. Here, we present experimental evidence that Na+ intercalation is indeed possible in fluorinated few-layer graphene (F-FLG) structures using cyclic voltammetry (CV), ion-sensitive scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) and in situ Raman spectroscopy. SECM and Raman spectroscopy confirmed Na+ intercalation in F-FLG, while CV measurements allowed us to quantify Na-intercalated F-FLG stoichiometries around NaC14–18. These stoichiometries are higher than the previously reported values of NaC186 in graphite. Our experiments revealed that reversible Na+ ion intercalation also requires a pre-formed Li-based SEI in addition to the surface fluorination, thereby highlighting the critical role of SEI in controlling ion-transfer kinetics in alkali-ion batteries. In summary, our findings highlight the use of surface modification and careful study of electrode-electrolyte interfaces and interphases as an enabling strategy for NIBs.
Real-Time Monitoring of Oxygen Released During Charging of Alkaline Zn-air Batteries with a Redox Mediator
Authors: Zhao Zhongxi , He Yi , Yu Wentao , Shang Wenxu , Ma Yanyi , Zhang Zhuojun , Tan Peng
Published: October 2022

The main challenges for alkaline Zn-air batteries (ZABs) are their high charging potential and low energy efficiency. The introduction of a redox mediator (RM) is a novel approach, but the effects on the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) are lacking at the device level. Herein, the effects of RMs on ZABs are comprehensively investigated through a differential electrochemical mass spectrometer (DEMS) online gas monitoring system. First, the monitoring system is proven to be effective in capturing oxygen during charging. Then, four electrolytes depending on the RM (KI) concentration are prepared. The duration of the oxygen signal decreases with an increase of the RM concentration, and disappears completely when the concentration reaches 0.1 M. It can be deduced that the charging process at a small depth or with a high concentration of the RM is only a conversion of the RM rather than the OER. Further, the duration without oxygen release decreases with cycles, indicating the decreasing amount of the RM. Therefore, KI is not strictly an RM but a sacrificial agent, and considerable efforts are required to find a reliable RM for achieving low-potential charging. Hopefully, this work provides novel insights to evaluate the effects of RM for practical applications.
Performance of a Novel In-Situ Converted Additive for High Voltage Li-ion Pouch Cells
Authors: Azam Saad , Meisner Quinton , Aiken Connor P. , Song Wentao , Liu Qian , Yoo Dong-Joo , Eldesoky Ahmed , Zhang Zhengcheng , Dahn J. R.
Published: October 2022

In search for new classes of additives for high voltage NMC/graphite lithium-ion cells, the precursor additive bis(trimethylsilyl) malonate (bTMSM) is shown to be activated via a spontaneous reaction with LiPF6 and LiBF4 salts in carbonate-based electrolyte to form lithium tetrafluoro(malonato)phosphate (LiTFMP), and lithium difluoro(malonato)borate (LiDFMB), respectively. The reaction schemes and rates were studied via NMR spectroscopy and GCMS. The effects of LiTFMP and LiDFMB on high voltage electrochemical performance were then examined up to 4.5 V in Li[Ni0.4Mn0.4Co0.16]O2 (NMC442)/graphite and Li[Ni0.6Mn0.4Co0.0]O2 (NMC/640)/graphite pouch cells using aggressive voltage-hold cycling, long-term charge/discharge cycling, storage experiments, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and gas evolution measurements. While in situ converted additives suffer from gassing issues due to the presence of trimethylfluorosilane (TMSF) gas, a side product of the in situ reaction of bTMSM with LiPF6, the cycling and storage capability for the activated additives under study shows competitive performance and controlled impedance when compared to other well-known high voltage additives. Micro X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (μXRF) confirmed that LiTFMP successfully minimizes the rate of transition metal deposition on the surface of graphite apparently by forming a protective agent at the cathode surface, hence allowing for improved cycling performance at high voltages.
Self-paced polling increases medical student engagement in recorded lectures and improves examination performance
Authors: Vuk Jasna , Anders Michael E. , Rhee Sung W.
Published: October 2022

More medical students utilize recorded lectures than live lectures. Self-paced polling questions allow students to participate while watching recorded lectures. Second-year medical students performed significantly better on examination after actively using the self-paced polling compared with inactive students. They also reported emotional, behavioral, and cognitive engagement with the course material while using the self-paced polling.
The proximal tubule through an NBCe1-dependent mechanism regulates collecting duct phenotypic and remodeling responses to acidosis
Authors: Verlander Jill W. , Lee Hyun-Wook , Wall Susan M. , Harris Autumn N. , Weiner I. David
Published: October 2022

This study shows that the proximal tubule regulates collecting duct phenotypic and remodeling responses to acidosis.
Sex differences in circadian regulation of kidney function of the mouse
Authors: Layton Anita T. , Gumz Michelle L.
Published: October 2022

How does the circadian control of renal transport genes affect overall kidney function, and how does that process differ between male and female mice? How does the differential circadian regulation of the expression levels of key transporter genes impact the transport processes along different nephron segments during the day? And how do those effects differ between males and females? We built computational models of mouse kidney function to answer these questions.
Data resource: vasopressin-regulated protein phosphorylation sites in the collecting duct
Authors: Park Euijung , Yang Chin-Rang , Raghuram Viswanathan , Deshpande Venkatesh , Datta Arnab , Poll Brian G. , Leo Kirby T. , Kikuchi Hiroaki , Chen Lihe , Chou Chung-Lin , Knepper Mark A.
Published: October 2022

Vasopressin regulates renal water excretion through control of the aquaporin-2 water channel in collecting duct cells. Studies of vasopressin-induced protein phosphorylation have focused mainly on the phosphorylation of aquaporin-2. This study describes 44 phosphoproteins other than aquaporin-2 that undergo vasopressin-mediated phosphorylation changes and summarizes potential physiological roles of each.
Optimal Route Assignment at the Bus Hub with Multiple Berths for Minimal Passenger Transfer Distance
Authors: Zhang Yan-Pei , Jin Hui , Hao Hai-Ming , Yang Xiao-Guang
Published: October 2022

Bus hub is characterized with multiple berths, each serving specific bus routes. When bus routes at different berths share the same stops en route, passengers to the shared stops may rush among these berths to catch the newly arriving bus, causing inconvenience and deteriorating bus service level. Thus, this research attempts to optimize bus route assignment to the berths at a bus hub to minimize passenger transfer distance among the optional berths. The problem is modeled with integer linear programming, with the constraints of bus service capacity. To enhance computation efficiency, exclusive and inclusive constraints based on the count of shared stops among the bus routes are additionally added to the original model, though they may bring gap from the optimal solution. Case study follows to apply the proposed set of models to a bus terminal, where a total of 26 routes are assigned to 11 berths. It is found that the models with additional constraints can greatly reduce calculation time at the cost of small or no gap from the optimal solution. Thus, the models with additional constraints are recommended to obtain ideal solution quickly. This research provides insights into bus route management at the bus terminal with multiple berths, contributing to enhanced passenger waiting experience.
Timing of Puberty and Late Pubertal Height in Saudi Schoolboys: Riyadh Puberty Study II
Authors: Al Alwan Ibrahim , Alfaraidi Haifa , Al Juraibah Fahad , Al Dubayee Mohamed , Babiker Amir , Tamimi Waleed , Musalli Dania , Alsheikh Manal , Badri Motasim
Published: October 2022

Objective. Puberty has a significant contribution to the final height. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the normal variations in the onset and tempo of puberty in a specific population. In this study, we aimed to provide normative data on the timing of puberty and late pubertal height (LPH) in Saudi schoolboys in Riyadh. Methods. This is a cross-sectional field study (2011–2013) including Saudi schoolboys (grades 1–12; aged 6 to 19 years). Schools were chosen to represent the population from urban and rural areas in the Riyadh region. Pubertal maturity staging for gonads was assessed by measuring testicular size using a Prader orchidometer and assessing the Tanner staging of pubic hair. The marginal mean age was calculated using regression analysis. Results. We recruited 1086 schoolboys. The estimated mean age of pubertal onset at G2 was 11.8 (95% CI 11.60–12.0) years, for gonadal development at G3 was 13.2 (95% CI 12.9–13.5), G4 = 15.0 (95% CI 14.7–15.2), and G5 = 16.1 (95% CI 15.9–16.3) years, and for pubic hair stage 2 (PH2) was 12.6 (95% CI 12.4–12.9) years. The estimated time from G2/PH2 to G5/PH5 was 4.3 and 3.9 years, respectively. At the onset of puberty, the mean height was 144.7 cm and it reached 167.8 cm at G5 with a pubertal height gain of 23.1 cm. Conclusion. Our data present the norms of the timing of puberty and LPH in Saudi schoolboys. Saudi adolescent males are shorter than some European and American comparatives mainly due to shortness during childhood. However, they could have shorter LPH than Turkish, Greek, Thai, and Japanese due to a less pubertal height gain.
Synergistic Optimization Method for URT Network Train Connection Scheme in Peak and Off-Peak Periods
Authors: Xu Ruihua , Song Xuyang , Zhou Feng , Wang Fangsheng
Published: October 2022

In this study, we developed a method for coordinating and optimizing the train connection plans of different lines under the conditions of urban rail transit (URT) network operation. The method allows trains of different lines to form good connections at transfer stations, which can shorten the waiting time of passengers for transfers and reduce passenger retention. A mathematical model was developed to simulate the interaction between passengers and trains. Two optimization models were developed for the train connection plan of network transfer stations based on different optimization objectives during peak and off-peak hours. Subsequently, a corresponding solution method based on a genetic algorithm and simulation was designed. Finally, the Suzhou URT network was used as a case study, and the passenger flow of the transfer station was simulated and calculated using relevant automatic fare collection (AFC) data. The results indicated that the average waiting time and the number of passengers stranded were reduced using the proposed method. The calculation example demonstrated the effectiveness of the model and algorithm, which can guide the coordinated preparation of a network train connection plan.
Risk Assessment of Rockburst with a LS-FAHP-CRITIC Method: A Case in Gaojiapu Coal Mine, North of China
Authors: Zhang Jinkui , Cheng Xianggang , Qiao Wei , Lv Weidong , He Hu , Dou Linming , Hou Tao , Tang Zhongyi , Meng Xiangsheng , Song Shikang
Published: October 2022

Rockburst is one of the main dynamic disasters in coal mines; it is of great significance to accurately evaluate the risk zoning of rockburst for mine safety construction and pressure relief design. Taking the Gaojiapu coal mine in the Bingchang mining area of Shaanxi Province as the study area, this paper quantifies the complex geological structure based on fractal theory and establishes the zoning evaluation model of rockburst risk index in the mining area by LS-FAHP-CRITIC method in combination with the distribution characteristics of field stress field, the distribution of geological structure, and the sedimentary environment of coal seam overburden. A new evaluation method of rockburst risk zoning in the coal mine is proposed, and the rockburst risk in the study area was evaluated. The results show that the dangerous areas in the study area are widely distributed, mainly in the area near the structure with high maximum horizontal principal stress. On the basis of the actual rockburst of the Gaojiapu coal mine, the areas where rockburst occurs are all located in dangerous area and high dangerous area, which verifies the accuracy and rationality of the zoning evaluation results of the new method. This method can be used to guide the safety production of similar mines or adjacent coalfaces.
A Multi-Agent Optimal Bidding Strategy in Multi-Operator VPPs Based on SGHSA
Authors: Li Shupeng , Huo Xianxu , Zhang Xiyuan , Li Guodong , Kong Xiangyu , Zhang Siqiong
Published: October 2022

As an individual plant participating in the power market, the virtual power plant (VPP) is regarded as the ultimate configuration of the energy Internet, and effective dispatching is a challenge. This paper proposes a multi-agent optimal bidding strategy based on a self-adaptive global optimal harmony search algorithm (SGHSA) to solve the problem of multi-operator participation in virtual power station scheduling. The method takes multiple agents to simulate the bidding process in the VPPs and distributes the profits for the operators based on the market mechanism to optimize the distributed energy resources (DERs). Case studies are provided and show that the proposed method realizes the optimal distribution of power generation and demand level, which improves the comprehensive advantage of the VPP in electricity market transactions.
New Series Approach Implementation for Solving Fuzzy Fractional Two-Point Boundary Value Problems Applications
Authors: Jawad Hashim Dulfikar , Anakira N. R. , Fareed Jameel Ali , Alomari A. K. , Zureigat Hamzeh , Alomari M. W. , Ying Teh Yuan
Published: October 2022

In this work, the fuzzy fractional two-point boundary value problems (FFTBVPs) are analyzed and solved using the fuzzy fractional homotopy analysis method (FF-HAM). Fuzzy set theory mixed with Caputo fractional derivative properties is utilized to produce a new formulation of the standard HAM in the fuzzy domain for the persistence of approximation series solutions for fuzzy fractional differential equations with boundary conditions. The FF-HAM provides a suitable way of controlling the convergence of the series solution through the advantage of the convergence control parameter, which plays a pivotal role in solving a wide range of mathematical problems. The convergence analysis algorithm has been described, along with a graphical representation of the FF-HAM of the proposed applications. The method produces high accuracy solutions with simple implementation for solving linear and nonlinear fuzzy fractional boundary value problems associated with physical application. Also, the obtained results are analyzed and compared with those present in the literature to show the efficiency of the FF-HAM.
Development and Application of a Model Measuring Public Safety in Taiwan
Authors: Lin Zhi-Ping , Hsu Song-Chia , Che Z. H.
Published: October 2022

Public safety‐related problems exist in all countries, causing the public to fear for their personal safety and that of their property. Maintaining public safety, providing citizens with safe living environments, and realizing sustainable social development are issues that concern not only the public but also local and central governments. Accordingly, this study proposed a measurement model that combines the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) to obtain public safety ratings. First, this study used the AHP to analyze the contributions of public safety‐related criteria, and the relative weights of the criteria were calculated. Subsequently, TOPSIS was used to calculate the relative closeness coefficients between public safety performance and positive‐ideal solutions to evaluate public safety performance. The measurement model proposed in this study was used to rate the public safety performance of 22 cities and counties in Taiwan. The results showed that the criterion weights matched the perceptions of the public, and Lienchiang County, Taitung County, and Penghu County had the best public safety performance. The applicability of the proposed measurement model has been confirmed using real‐world data. Thus, it can be used to help decision‐makers make complex public safety‐related decisions.
Detection of Complement C1q B Chain Overexpression and Its Latent Molecular Mechanisms in Cervical Cancer Tissues Using Multiple Methods
Authors: Lin Si-Tong , Liang Zi-Qian , Chen Xiao-Yu , Ye Xin-Qing , Pang Yu-Yan , Luo Jia-Yuan , Chen Jun-Hong , Dang Yi-Wu , Chen Gang
Published: October 2022

Aim. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the expression and clinicopathological significance of complement C1q B chain (C1QB) in cervical cancer. Methods. In total, 120 cervical cancer tissues, as well as 20 samples each of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSILs), low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSILs), and benign cervical tissue, were collected to evaluate the expression of C1QB protein via immunohistochemical staining. We conducted an integrated analysis of C1QB mRNA expression in cervical cancer using public microarrays and RNA-seq data sets by calculating standard mean differences (SMDs). Simultaneously, we explored the relations of C1QB with clinicopathological parameters and the expression of P16, Ki-67, and P53. Results. The expression of C1QB protein was higher in cervical cancer samples than that in benign cervical tissue, LSIL, and HSIL samples (

p
<
0.05

). A combined SMD of 0.65 (95% CI: [0.52, 0.79],

p
<
0.001

) revealed upregulation of C1QB mRNA in cervical cancer. C1QB expression may also be related to the depth of infiltration, lymphovascular invasion, and perineural invasion in cervical cancer (

p
<
0.05

). We also found that C1QB protein expression was positively correlated with P16 and Ki-67 expression in cervical cancer (

p
<
0.05

). The gene set enrichment analysis showed that C1QB may participate in apoptosis and autophagy. A relationship was predicted between C1QB expression and drug sensitivity to cisplatin, paclitaxel, and docetaxel. Conclusion. We confirmed the overexpression of C1QB in cervical cancer at both mRNA and protein levels for the first time. C1QB may serve as an oncogene in the tumorigenesis of cervical cancer, but this possibility requires further study.
Electroacupuncture Preconditioning Alleviates Lipopolysaccharides-Induced Acute Lung Injury by Downregulating LC3‐II/I and Beclin 1 Expression
Authors: Sun Guanghua , Zeng Yahua , Luo Fu , Zhang Lixian , Tan Jinqu , Tong Jie , Yang Lu , Liu Danni , Liu Liu , Zhou Jun
Published: October 2022

Our study aimed to investigate the effect of electroacupuncture pretreatment on the inflammatory response and expression levels of LC3-II/I and Beclin 1 using a model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute lung injury (ALI). Eighteen male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into three groups: normal control group (NC, n = 6), LSP modeling group (LM, n = 6), and electroacupuncture group (EA, n = 6). Rats in the EA group received electroacupuncture pretreatment at bilateral Zusanli (ST36) and Chize (LU5) points for five days (30 min each time daily, frequency; 3 Hz/15 Hz, intensity; 1 mA). Rats in the EA and LM groups were then injected with 5 mg/kg LPS (Beijing, Solarbio Company, concentration; 5 mg/mL) through the tail vein, while those in the NC group were injected with 5 mg/kg saline. The animals were sacrificed six hours after LPS or saline injection through cervical vertebrae by dislocation under deep anesthesia. Orbital blood was collected for the analysis of serum inflammatory factors including interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). The lower left lung was excised, stained with hematoxylin-eosin (HE), and subjected to histopathological analysis. The mRNA and protein expression of Beclin 1 and LC3 II/I in the lower right lung tissues were detected via RT-qPCR and Western blot analyses, respectively. The results showed that lung injury score was significantly higher in the LM group than that of the NC group (

P
<
0.01

) and EA group (

P
<
0.01

). The IL-1β contents were significantly decreased in the EA group (

P
<
0.01

) than in the LM group. In contrast, the GF-β contents were increased in the EA group significantly when compared with the LM group (

P
<
0.01

). RT-qPCR and Western blot detection showed that the relative gene expression of LC3‐II/I and Beclin 1 was significantly lower in the EA group than in the LM group (

P
<
0.01

). However, the relative protein expression level of LC3‐II/I and Beclin 1 was slightly lower in the EA group than the in LM group (

P
>
0.05

). These results show that electroacupuncture pretreatment reduces the inflammatory response in ALI and can protect lung tissue by inhibiting the gene and protein expression levels of LC3‐II/I and Beclin 1.
Assessment of the Availability and Accuracy of Dosing Devices Packaged with Oral Liquid Medications in the Ho Municipality of Ghana
Authors: Saaka Yussif , Nyamadi David M. , Amekyeh Hilda , Mensah Adelaide
Published: October 2022

Introduction. Administering the right dose of medications is essential in avoiding potentially life-threatening adverse drug reactions. Industry guidelines for manufacturers of oral, over-the-counter, and liquid medications recommend including dose-delivery devices with packaging to limit dosing inaccuracy. This study describes the prevalence and accuracy of dosing devices packaged with oral liquid medications in the Ho municipality of Ghana. Methods. Dosing device accuracy was determined after deviation of the measured volume from the expected volume was evaluated using the United States Pharmacopoeia criteria. Results. A total of 78.6% of the oral liquid medications were packaged with a dosing device. The most common dosing devices were cups (83.6%), followed by spoons (14.3%), droppers (1.4%), and syringes (0.7%). The volumes measured with cups (5.14 ± 0.52 mL,

p
=
0.006

) and spoons (5.3 ± 0.67 mL,

p
<
0.001

) were significantly different from the desired 5 mL volume; this was dissimilar to the volume measured using syringes (5.01 ± 0.02 mL,

p
>
0.999

). Further, the measured volumes for 38.6% and 72.2% of the cups and spoons, respectively, deviated by more than 15% of 5 mL. Conclusion. Dosing cups and spoons are associated with significant inaccuracy. Yet, manufacturers continually favour them over syringes in packaging for oral liquid medications. This is unacceptable and of considerable concern due to the risk of variations in therapeutic outcomes. Therefore, strict regulatory directives on the inclusion of accurate dosing devices in the packaging of oral liquid medicines are needed to reduce the possibility of medication errors.
Comparison of the Efficacy of EGFR-TKIs Combined with Antiangiogenic Agents between Patients with Exon 19 Deletion and Patients with Exon 21 Leu858 Arg Mutation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Pan Xin-Bin , Liang Fa-Song , Tang Qin-Yu , Liang Huan-Wei , Zhu Xiao-Dong
Published: October 2022

Purpose. To compare the efficacy of EGFR-TKIs combined with antiangiogenic agents between non-small cell lung cancer patients with exon 19 deletion and patients with exon 21 Leu858 Arg mutation. Methods. Electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) were systematically searched for studies published until March 2022. Randomized control trials comparing the survival of EGFR-TKIs plus antiangiogenic agents with EGFR-TKI were extracted. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS). Results. Five randomized control trials involving 1533 patients were as follows: 818 patients had exon 19 deletion, and 715 patients with exon 21 Leu858 Arg mutation. The methodological quality of the 5 randomized control trials was high. EGFR-TKIs plus antiangiogenic agents improved PFS in patients with exon 19 deletion (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.62, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.51–0.75) and exon 21 Leu858 Arg mutation (HR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.50–0.75). PFS did not differ between the exon 19 deletion and exon 21 Leu858 Arg mutation groups (Z = 0.07,

P
=
0.94

). Conclusions. PFS was comparable between patients receiving EGFR-TKIs combined with antiangiogenic agents with exon 19 deletion and those with exon 21 Leu858 Arg mutation.
Reimagining Cancer: Moving from the Cellular to the Tissue Level
Authors: Demicheli Romano , Hrushesky William J.M.
Published: October 2022

The current universally accepted explanation of cancer origin and behavior, the somatic mutation theory, is cell-centered and rooted in perturbation of gene function independent of the external environmental context. However, tumors consist of various epithelial and stromal cell populations temporally and spatially organized into an integrated neoplastic community, and they can have properties similar to normal tissues. Accordingly, we review specific normal cellular and tissue traits and behaviors with adaptive temporal and spatial self-organization that result in ordered patterns and structures. A few recent theories have described these tissue-level cancer behaviors, invoking a conceptual shift from the cellular level and highlighting the need for methodologic approaches based on the analysis of complex systems. We propose extending the analytical approach of regulatory networks to the tissue level and introduce the concept of "cancer attractors." These concepts require reevaluation of cancer imaging and investigational approaches and challenge the traditional reductionist approach of cancer molecular biology.
Targeting the Siglec–Sialic Acid Immune Axis in Cancer: Current and Future Approaches
Authors: Läubli Heinz , Nalle Sam C. , Maslyar Daniel
Published: October 2022

The sialic acid–binding immunoglobulin-like lectin (Siglec)–sialic acid immune axis is an evolutionarily conserved immunoregulatory pathway that provides a mechanism for establishing self-recognition and combatting invasive pathogens. Perturbations in the pathway lead to many immune dysregulated diseases, including autoimmunity, neurodegeneration, allergic conditions, and cancer. The purpose of this review is to provide a brief overview of the relationship between Siglecs and sialic acid as they relate to human health and disease, to consider current Siglec-based therapeutics, and to discuss new therapeutic approaches targeting the Siglec–sialic acid immune axis, with a focus on cancer.
Safety and Feasibility of a Sheath Cryoprobe for Bronchoscopic Transbronchial Biopsy: The FROSTBITE Trial
Authors: Thiboutot Jeffrey , Illei Peter B. , Maldonado Fabien , Kapp Christopher M. , DeMaio Andrew , Lee Hans J. , Feller-Kopman David , Lentz Robert J. , Sathyanarayan Priya , Rahman Najib M. , Silvestri Gerard A. , Yarmus Lonny ,   on behalf of the Interventional Pulmonary Outcomes Group
Published: October 2022

Background: Bronchoscopic lung biopsy is typically performed using transbronchial forceps. However, this method is limited by small sample size and presence of crush artifact. Cryobiopsy offers the potential to overcome these limitations with larger artifact-free samples but has not been widely adopted due to concerns over increased rates of bleeding and pneumothorax. A new, smaller 1.1-mm cryoprobe has been developed that operates in a similar fashion to forceps, though the safety profile of this cryoprobe has not yet been prospectively studied. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the safety of transbronchial biopsy using a novel 1.1-mm cryoprobe. Methods: This prospective, single-arm study enrolled patients referred for transbronchial biopsy. All procedures were performed using the 1.1-mm cryoprobe with oversheath. The primary outcome was the composite of significant complications related to the cryobiopsy procedure (bleeding Grade ≥3, pneumothorax Grade ≥2, and respiratory failure). Bleeding and pneumothorax were graded according to previously published scales. Results: Fifty participants from two academic medical centers underwent transbronchial cryobiopsy. Indications for biopsy included evaluation of lung transplant allograft (50%), diffuse lung disease (44%), and pulmonary parenchymal lesion (6%). There were two pneumothoraces (4%), neither of which required aspiration or chest tube placement. There were no Grade 3 or 4 bleeding events. Mild bleeding (Grade ≤2) was observed in 25 cases (50%). No complications occurred that met the a priori primary outcome of bleeding Grade ≥3, pneumothorax Grade ≥2, and respiratory failure. Conclusions: Transbronchial cryobiopsy using a 1.1-mm cryoprobe is feasible with an acceptable safety profile.
Plasma Circulating Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptors at Multiple Time Points Can Predict the Outcome of Severe Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Shin Dong-Jin , Li Lilin , Cho Ara , Lee Jeonghwan , Oh Sohee , Kwon Soie , Kim Dong Ki , Kim Sejoong , Oh Yun Kyu , Lim Chun Soo , Kim Yon Su , Lee Jung Pyo ,   VENUS study investigators
Published: October 2022

Introduction: This prospective cohort study investigated the clinical role of circulating tumor necrosis factor receptor (cTNFR) levels as prognostic biomarkers in severe acute kidney injury (AKI) patients requiring continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). Methods: We enrolled 136 patients from 7 hospitals participating in the VENUS (VolumE maNagement Under body composition monitoring in critically ill patientS on CRRT) trial from July 2017 to October 2019. The levels of cTNFR1 and cTNFR2 were measured using plasma samples collected on days 0 (D0), 2 (D2), and 7 (D7). Patients were divided into high- and low-cTNFR groups based on their receptor concentrations. Results: D0 concentrations of cTNFR1 and cTNFR2 were positively correlated with one another (R2 = 0.37, p < 0.001). The high-cTNFR1 group displayed a higher in-hospital mortality rate than the low-TNFR1 group (p = 0.002). Moreover, the mortality rate was significantly higher in the high-TNFR1 group than in the low-TNFR1 group after adjusting for age, sex, and acute physiology, and chronic health evaluation II scores (hazard ratio 1.82, 95% confidence interval 1.09–3.03, p = 0.025). D2 and D7 cTNFR1 levels were also associated with in-hospital mortality; contrastingly, cTNFR2 levels were not associated with this outcome. Additionally, patients were divided into three groups according to the change in cTNFR levels from D0 to D2 (ΔcTNFR). Those in the highest ΔcTNFR tertile had a higher mortality rate than the remaining patients (p = 0.033 for ΔcTNFR1; p = 0.025 for ΔcTNFR2). Patients who underwent AKI-to-chronic kidney disease transition had higher concentrations of cTNFR1 (p = 0.014). Discussion/Conclusion: Plasma cTNFR1 concentrations at CRRT initiation and changes in cTNFR1 and 2 levels immediately following CRRT initiation are significant biomarkers for predicting the outcomes of patients with severe AKI.
Differences in Prevalence of Haematological Abnormalities on Presentation to Hospital in COVID-19-Infected Adult and Paediatric Patients: A Retrospective Multicentre Descriptive Study
Authors: Fathima Saubia , Rahma Salma , Chughtai Farah , Al Dabal Laila
Published: October 2022

Background: It is well known that COVID-19 infection affects multiple systems in the body. Reports have documented many changes in the hematopoietic system in the pathophysiology of the disease, and many haematological markers like lymphopenia and high d dimer have been linked to worse outcomes after COVID-19 infection in adult patients. Aim: The aim of the study was to find out the prevalence and any significant difference in routine haematological parameters on presentation in paediatric and adult patients with COVID-19 infection. Methodology: We conducted a multicentre retrospective descriptive observational study and investigated the prevalence of haematological abnormalities at the presentation of 1,000 PCR swab-confirmed COVID-19-infected randomly selected adult and paediatric patients admitted to 3 tertiary hospitals in Dubai from 15 March–30 May 2020. Data were gathered through their electronic medical records, and all analysis was done using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software (SPSS). Results: The prevalence of at least one abnormal haematological parameter was 95.1% (794/835) on the first presentation to the hospital. After adjusting of age and gender, the prevalence of any white cell abnormality was 34.7% (290/835) (5.7% leukopenia, 9.6% leucocytosis, 25.4% lymphopenia, 5.5% neutropenia, 16.4% neutrophilia, 7.3% monocytosis, and 1.2% eosinopenia). A prevalence of 15.3% (128/835) anaemia, 9.5% (79/835) thrombocytopenia, and 4.3% (36/835) thrombocytosis was also observed. The prevalence of other abnormal blood parameters was C-reactive protein 69.5% (573/835), D dimer 57.5% (280/835), high lactate dehydrogenase 52% (383/835), high ferritin 72.1% (452/835), high international normalized ratio 5.1% (38/835), prolonged prothrombin time 32.2% (240/835), and prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time 35.6% (264/835). A significant difference in the prevalence of these abnormalities was evident between adult and paediatric populations, and these abnormalities were much more prevalent in adults but interestingly paediatric population tended to have a higher incidence of neutropenia, eosinophilia, and monocytosis (p < 0.001). Conclusion: COVID-19 infection tends to be milder and has better outcomes in the paediatric population. The immune system responds differently to the infection in these populations. The response is exaggerated in adults reflected by the increased prevalence of haematological abnormalities like raised inflammatory markers and other white cell abnormalities and has been linked with increased severity of infection and mortality.
Diagnosis and Course of Membranous Nephropathy in Adults: Comparison by Age Group
Authors: Paulo Renata Paula Martins Brandão , Jorge Lectícia Barbosa , Yu Luis , Woronik Viktoria , Dias Cristiane Bitencourt
Published: October 2022

Introduction: There have been few studies comparing younger and older adults with membranous nephropathy. The objective of this study was to compare younger and older patients with membranous nephropathy, in terms of the clinical, etiological, remission, and survival data. Method: This was a retrospective study of patients with membranous nephropathy who underwent renal biopsy between 2009 and 2017. Results: We included 214 patients with membranous nephropathy. At diagnosis, 169 (79%) of those patients were <60 years of age and 45 (21%) were ≥60 years of age. There was a predominance of males in both groups. The degree of proteinuria and the prevalence of hematuria did not differ significantly between the groups. However, the median serum creatinine level was higher in the ≥60-year group as was the prevalence of hypertension. Of the patients evaluated, 36 (16.8%) had secondary membranous nephropathy. Although the proportions of infectious and autoimmune causes were comparable between the two groups, neoplastic etiologies were more common in the ≥60-year group. A total of 86 in the <60-year group and 25 in the ≥60-year group were followed long term, and partial or complete remission was achieved in 68.5% and 68.0% of the younger and older patients, respectively. However, whom progressed to requiring dialysis eight (9.3%) were in the <60-year group patients and eight (32.0%) of the ≥60-year group patients (p = 0.0045). Conclusion: Despite having worse renal function at diagnosis, older patients with membranous nephropathy appear to have remission rates comparable to those of younger patients with the disease, which demonstrates the benefits of seeking diagnosis and treatment.
Palabras y modernas prensas latinoamericanas (1860-1900)
Authors: Rocca Pablo
Published: October 2022

Desde 1860, la fecha es promedial, ingresa la modernización literaria por diferentes sitios de América Latina. Esa novedad está asociada a un general proceso análogo –pero del que no es un simple espejo– al campo económico y social. Por un lado, la modernización rechaza las imposiciones del capitalismo; por otro, se aprovecha de su capacidad de expansión por medio de la educación letrada en los discursos de la prensa, la novela por entregas, el folleto como vehículo de difusión mayor, el más selecto libro. Estas fueron las llaves para modificar las formas de lectura y, por añadidura, la concepción del mundo. Este trabajo se propone observar algunos puntos fundamentales del vínculo entre medios y formas, la tensión entre nacionalismo y cosmopolitismo y las figuras del escritor y el periodista. El foco se coloca en la pugna por la búsqueda de un lenguaje americano y la relación entre producción literaria, prensa, impresos y públicos tomando en cuenta varios ejemplos americanos del período, sobre todo del Río de la Plata y de Brasil.
Relações literárias entre Paraguai e Brasil: as leituras de Josefina Plá sobre poesia brasileira
Authors: Rodrigues Daiane Pereira
Published: October 2022

Este trabalho tem o objetivo de visibilizar as relações entre Paraguai e Brasil ocorridas na década de 1950 com a publicação de ensaios de Josefina Plá (Espanha, 1903 – Paraguai 1999) sobre literatura brasileira no jornal La Tribuna de Assunção. Em um primeiro momento, apresento uma contextualização da autora na literatura paraguaia; posteriormente, faço uma análise geral dos textos da série “Interpretando al Brasil”, publicados entre 1952 e 1953, destacando a importância desses ensaios para o entendimento da vanguarda paraguaia e as escolhas estéticas e ideológicas de Josefina Plá; e, finalmente, analiso os textos sobre poesia sob o ponto de vista dos estudos feministas de tradução, visando repensar o arquivo literário latino-americano a partir da publicação de mulheres tradutoras. Demonstra-se que Josefina Plá possui importantes colaborações à crítica de tradução, assim como para a crítica literária latino-americana.
A carne e a opressão nas obras de Humberto Espíndola (Ms∕Brasil) e Carlos Alonso (Mendoza ∕Argentina)
Authors: Abreu Simone Rocha de
Published: October 2022

Este artigo propõe leituras em paralelo das pinturas do artista brasileiro Humberto Espíndola (Mato Grosso do Sul) e do artista argentino Carlos Alonso (Mendoza) focando a análise no uso da carne como uma potente metáfora da opressão. As análises das imagens buscam as relações entre a produção artística de ambos artistas e o contexto histórico- social, com foco na política. As obras de Alonso e Espíndola aludem às tensões através do emprego das duplas de opostos: morte e vida, opressor e oprimido, natureza e cultura, homem e mulher. Finalmente, observa-se que ambos os artistas empregam diferentemente o símbolo da carne.