bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Super-Resolution Reconstruction Algorithm-Based MRI Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer and Evaluation of Treatment Effect of Prostate Specific Antigen
Authors: Liu Biao , Tan Rongping , Tan Baogao , Huang Chenhui , Yang Keqin
Published: October 2022

MRI of prostate cancer (PCa) was performed using a projection onto convex sets (POCS) super-resolution reconstruction algorithm to evaluate and analyze the treatment of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and provide a theoretical reference for clinical practice. A total of 110 patients with PCa were selected as the study subjects. First, the modified POCS algorithm was used to reconstruct the MRI images, and the gradient interpolation algorithm was used instead of the traditional bilinear algorithm to preserve the edge information. The diagnostic and therapeutic effects of MRI examination, PSA examination, and MRI combined with PSA based on a super-resolution reconstruction algorithm were then compared. The simulation results showed that the POCS algorithm was superior to the bilinear interpolation results and was superior to the common POCS algorithm. After adding noise artificially, the restoration algorithm was effective and could preserve the details in the image. The performance indexes of PSA in the diagnosis of PCa were 75.4%, 60.1%, 70.08%, 72.2%, and 60.3%, respectively; the performance indexes of MRI in the diagnosis of PCa were 84.6%, 61.4%, 71.11%, 73.08%, and 61.9%, respectively; and the performance indexes of MRI combined with PSA based on the super-resolution reconstruction algorithm in the diagnosis of PCa were 96.05%, 88.3%, 95.1%, 93.6%, and 92.7%, respectively. The indicators of MRI combined with PSA based on the super-resolution reconstruction algorithm were significantly higher than those of the other two methods (

P

 < 0.05). The signal-to-noise ratio of MRI of PCa based on the super-resolution reconstruction algorithm has been greatly improved, with good clarity, which can improve the diagnostic accuracy of PCa patients and has certain advantages in the examination. MRI based on the super-resolution reconstruction algorithm has a high value in the diagnosis and treatment of PCa.
A Novel Optimization Approach for Educational Class Scheduling with considering the Students and Teachers’ Preferences
Authors: Chen Yu , Bayanati Mahmonir , Ebrahimi Maryam , Khalijian Sadaf
Published: October 2022

University class scheduling problem is one of the most important and complex issues in the academic field. This problem is recognized as one of the NP‐HARD issues due to its various limitations. On the contrary, genetic algorithms are commonly used to solve NP‐HARD problems, which is one of the decision‐making problems and is basically one of the most fundamental classes of complexity. The university course planning includes severe constraints such as classroom, classroom curriculum, and faculty. At the same time, some soft constraints should be considered, such as student and faculty preferences and favorite class time. In this research, as a novel contribution, an integer model for scheduling university classes is presented. In this model, the preferences of professors and students are in accordance with the satisfaction values obtained through questionnaires. Moreover, a genetic algorithm has been developed to solve the model. The results show that the classroom timeline by this algorithm goes well during each run. Moreover, considering an exploratory search for the genetic algorithm can greatly improve the performance of this algorithm.
An Efficient Lightweight Image Encryption Scheme Using Multichaos
Authors: Ullah Asad , Shah Awais Aziz , Khan Jan Sher , Sajjad Mazhar , Boulila Wadii , Akgul Akif , Masood Junaid , Ghaleb Fuad A. , Shah Syed Aziz , Ahmad Jawad
Published: October 2022

With an immense increase in Internet multimedia applications over the past few years, digital content such as digital images are stored and shared over global networks, the probability for information leakage and illegal modifications to the digital content is at high risk. These digital images are transferred using the network bandwidth; therefore, secure encryption schemes facilitate both information security and bandwidth issues. Hence, a state-of-the-art lightweight information security methodology is required to address this challenge. The main objective of this work is to develop a lightweight nonlinear mechanism for digital image security using chaos theory. The proposed scheme starts by changing a plain image into an encrypted image to improve its security. A block cipher, using lightweight chaos, has been added to achieve this objective for digital image security. We utilized multiple chaotic maps to generate random keys for each channel. Also, Arnold cat map and chaotic gingerbread map are used to add confusion and diffusion. During the permutation stage, image pixels are permuted, while in diffusion stage, pixels are distorted utilizing gingerbread map to add more security. The proposed scheme has been validated using different security parameter tests such as correlation coefficient tests (CC), whose results have been observed closer to zero and information entropy (IE) value is 7.99, respectively, which is almost equal to the ideal value of 8. Moreover, number of pixels changing rate (NPCR) obtained value is higher than 99.50%, while the unified average changing intensity (UACI) is 33.33. Other parameters such as mean absolute error (MAE), mean square error (MSE), lower value of peak to signal noise ratio (PSNR), structural content (SC), maximum difference (MD), average difference (AD), normalized cross-correlation (NCC), and histogram analysis (HA) is tested. The computed values of the proposed scheme are better. The achieved results after comparison with existing schemes highlight that the proposed scheme is highly secure, lightweight, and feasible for real-time communications.
Application of Machine Learning in Multi-Directional Model to Follow Solar Energy Using Photo Sensor Matrix
Authors: Dhanalakshmi P. , Venkatesh V. , Ranjit P. S. , Hemalatha N. , Divyapriya S. , Sandhiya R. , Kushwaha Sumit , Marathe Asmita , Huluka Mekete Asmare
Published: October 2022

In this paper, we introduce a deep neural network (DNN) for forecasting the intra-day solar irradiance, photovoltaic PV plants, regardless of whether or not they have energy storage, can benefit from the work being done here. The proposed DNN utilises a number of different methodologies, two of which are cloud motion analysis and machine learning, in order to make forecasts regarding the climatological conditions of the future. In addition to this, the accuracy of the model was evaluated in light of the data sources that were easily accessible. In general, four different cases have been investigated. According to the findings, the DNN is capable of making more accurate and reliable predictions of the incoming solar irradiance than the persistent algorithm. This is the case across the board. Even without any actual data, the proposed model is considered to be state-of-the-art because it outperforms the current NWP forecasts for the same time horizon as those forecasts. When making predictions for the short term, using actual data to reduce the margin of error can be helpful. When making predictions for the long term, however, weather information can be beneficial.
Ranking of Key Components of CNC Machine Tools Based on Complex Network
Authors: Peng Chong , Zhang Zhongwen , Liu Wenwei , Li Dan
Published: October 2022

Complex networks have become a center of interdisciplinary research. The robustness and reliability of complex systems can be determined by analyzing the characteristics of networks. The computer numerical control machine tool (CNCMT) is a typical complex system, and reliability is the key factor that affects the processing quality and performance of the CNCMT. The process of quantitatively determining the key functional components of CNCMT and carrying out reliability growth experiments on them remains difficult. A new importance-ranking method for the key functional components of the CNCMT is proposed in this study. First, the real characteristics of the CNCMT are analyzed, and the complex network of the CNCMT is constructed. Then, we study various indicators of the network and determine that the network has small-world characteristics. Finally, a variety of complex network characteristic indicators are fused, the weight of each indicator is determined based on the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), the importance of each node is quantitatively determined, and the fused indicators are compared with a single indicator.
Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis Manifests with Acute Severe Hypernatremia during Hospitalization
Authors: Takkavatakarn Kullaya , Poparn Hansamon , Katavetin Pisut
Published: October 2022

Central diabetes insipidus (DI) is characterized by a deficiency in arginine vasopressin (AVP), an antidiuretic hormone leading to excessive free water loss in the urine and hypernatremia. Central DI can be the first presentation of several occult diseases. However, patients with central DI who have functioning thirst mechanisms and access to water may initially exhibit normal sodium levels. We report a 57-year-old woman who was admitted to the hospital due to cholangitis. Her initial serum sodium was normal and she rapidly developed severe hypernatremia after fluid restriction. The results of the laboratory workup indicated DI, which dramatically responded to desmopressin. MRI showed an ill-defined faint hyper signal intensity in T1, T2/FLAIR lesions involving the bilateral hypothalamus. The histopathological findings confirmed the diagnosis of Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) with multiorgan involvement. Serum sodium returned to normal after receiving desmopressin and water replacement therapy.
Analysis of Geoecological Restoration in Mountainous Cities Affected by Geological Hazards with Interval Intuitive Fuzzy Information
Authors: Song Yuanwen , Gao Lei , He Haipin , Lu Juan
Published: October 2022

With the progress of the industrial revolution and the development of modern science and technology, China’s urbanization process has been promoted. Urban and rural economic and social construction has greatly improved the local appearance and social structure. Human activities and natural ecology have affected the whole geological-ecological process, further aggravated the geological-ecological damage, and caused more serious geological disasters, especially in some places (especially in mountainous areas). In recent years, strong geological disasters have occurred in Wenchuan, Yushu, and Lushan regions of China, which not only seriously endanger the life safety and social life of the affected people, but also damage the geological-ecological structure and social functions of the region, especially in the geographically sensitive Alpine urban areas. It also produced many secondary disasters, such as landslides and land collapses. Mountainous cities and towns have special requirements for construction land, which is difficult to construct. Industrial land resources are in short supply, urban and rural comprehensive construction land is not active, and cultivated land area resources are tight. Compared with plain towns with superior geological conditions, mountain towns are more vulnerable to adverse geological environment such as geological ecology, landform, ecological vegetation, and hydrology. The geographical natural environment, as an organic whole that combines and interacts with the geomorphic natural environment, the biological-ecological environment, and the human social management environment, is the main reason that affects the development of mountain towns. Once the mountain geological ecology is destroyed, a series of geological disasters will often be induced, which will seriously restrict the healthy development of mountain towns. Scientific management of the geological environment plays an important role in the assessment of the geological environment restoration of mountain towns after disasters. Therefore, taking the most beautiful counties in China, Baoxing City, and Tianquan County as examples, on the basis of studying the complex geological-ecological theory of geological disasters, this paper further improves the traditional ecological footprint model in China, and using the interval direct fuzzy information constructs the metric index of ecological restoration scheme of mountain towns, and determines the evaluation index and optimal scheme of ecological restoration. From the aspects of landscape layout construction, disaster prevention and mitigation planning and improvement, and environmental restoration project, the future geoecological restoration and response strategy of Lushan County are pointed out, which provide guidance for the postdisaster geoecological safety layout construction.
Morphological Characters, Dry Matter Production, and Nutritional Quality of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) as Influenced by Genotype and Environment
Authors: Lemore Alemayehu Abebe , Dida Mulisa Faji , Seid Kedija Ahmed
Published: October 2022

Cowpea is an important grain legume crop used as feed for livestock, and its dry beans provide protein. Consequently, the objective of this study was to evaluate selected cowpea genotypes for herbage dry matter yield and nutritional quality in two agro-ecologies of the Benishangul-Gumuz region. The study was conducted at Kamashi and Assosa forages research stations of Assosa Agricultural Research Center, and the sites were purposively selected to represent lowland and midland agro-ecologies, respectively. Four cowpeas’ accessions (V. Unguiculata ILRI-11114, ILRI-12688, ILRI-12713, and ILRI-9333) and one check (Melka (ILRI-9334) as a check) were evaluated in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Herbage dry matter yield, plant height at forage harvesting, and days to maturity were significantly affected by location (L). Longer plant heights, shorter days to maturity, and higher dry matter yield (P<0.001) were recorded at Kamashi than at Assosa. Herbage dry matter yield was significantlyP<0.05affected by year (Y), Y∗L (Y and L interaction), G∗L∗Y (genotype (G), L and Y interaction), and G∗L. Hebage dry matter yield was similar between years at Assosa, whereas at Kamashi significantly (P<0.001) different and more yields were obtained in 2015. The genotypes did not differ in nutritional quality parameters such as ash, acid detergent fibre, crude protein, and organic matter digestibility (P>0.05). However, neutral detergent fibre and acid detergent fibre were significantly (P<0.05) influenced by genotype. Thus, from the present study, it can be recommended that cowpea genotypes ILRI-12688 are suitable for Assosa and ILRI-11114 to Kamashi areas in terms of biomass production.
An Experimental Study on CO2 Displacing CH4 Effects of Different Rank Coals
Authors: Li Mingxue , Long Yonghan , Guo Lucheng , Zeng Shipan , Li Jiacheng , Zhang Lei
Published: October 2022

In order to study the effect of different rank coals on the displacement of CH4 by CO2 and prevent the gas-related disasters, a series of experiments were carried out. For this purpose, we selected low-rank lignite raw from Datong coalfield of Shanxi Province, medium-rank bituminous coal raw from Xutuan coalfield of Anhui Province, and high-rank anthracite raw coal from Yangquan coalfield of Shanxi Province. The results showed that (1) the shape of the displacement adsorption curve of the mixed gas and the shape of the single-dimensional adsorption curve of the pure gas are both steep at the beginning, with the increase of the pressure, the curve becomes more and more gentle. The difference is that it is lower than the single-dimensional gas adsorption curve. (2) The separation factor in the coal samples used in the experiment shows a trend of first decreasing and then increasing with the decrease of coal rank. The displacement factor has the same trend as the separation factor of each coal rank, which is

Z

i
j

 

anthracite

>

Z

i
j

 

lignite

>

Z

i
j

 

bituminous
 
coal

. (3) The amount of displaced CH4 in the displacement/adsorption process has enhanced with the increase in pressure, and the trend for different coals is

Q

Z

 

bituminous
 
coal

>

Q

Z

 

anthracite

>

Q

Z

 

lignite

. In addition, displacement showed the order

ƞ
 

lignite

>
ƞ
 

anthracite

>
ƞ
 

bituminous
 
coal

. The injection ratio of bituminous coal and anthracite decrease with the increase in pressure, while that of lignite increase first and later decreased. (4) In gas injection displacement, on the long time, the displacement effect of high coal rank is better than that of low coal rank.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Mental Health of Older Primary Care Patients and Their Family Members
Authors: Seibert Tara , Schroeder Matthew W. , Perkins Anthony J. , Park Seho , Batista-Malat Eleanor , Head Katharine J. , Bakas Tamilyn , Boustani Malaz , Fowler Nicole R.
Published: October 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic introduced mandatory stay-at-home orders and concerns about contracting a virus that impacted the physical and mental health of much of the world’s population. This study compared the rates of depression and anxiety in a sample of older primary care patients (aged ≥65 years old) and their family members recruited for a clinical trial before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants were dyads enrolled in the Caregiver Outcomes of Alzheimer’s Disease Screening (COADS) trial, which included 1,809 dyads of older primary care patients and one of their family members. Mean scores on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale-7 (GAD-7) were measured and compared before and during the pandemic. We found no difference in depression and anxiety among dyads of older primary care patients and their family members recruited before and during COVID-19. Additionally, we found that older primary care patients and family members who reported their income as comfortable had significantly lower depression and anxiety compared to those who reported having not enough to make ends meet. Along with this, older primary care patients with a high school education or less were more likely to have anxiety compared to those with a postgraduate degree. Moreover, our findings support the notion that certain demographics of older primary care patients and family members are at a higher risk for depression and anxiety, indicating who should be targeted for psychological health interventions that can be adapted during COVID-19. Future research should continue monitoring older primary care patients and their family members through the remainder of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Cell-Free and Concentrated Ascites Reinfusion Therapy during Hemodialysis for Intradialytic Hypotension and Intractable Ascites
Authors: Hayasaka Hideyuki , Ito Kiyonori , Ookawara Susumu , Kofuji Masaya , Uchida Takayuki , Kawamura Shunto , Gomyo Ayumi , Miyazawa Haruhisa , Ueda Yuichiro , Hirai Keiji , Kimura Shun-ichi , Momose Naoki , Kako Shinichi , Morishita Yoshiyuki
Published: October 2022

A 60-year-old woman with POEMS (polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal gammopathy, and skin changes) syndrome and intractable ascites presented with acute renal failure and received hemodialysis (HD) therapy. Due to frequent intradialytic hypotension, ultrafiltration with cell-free and concentrated ascites reinfusion therapy (CART) was performed to adequately manage the body fluid status and massive ascites. During HD with CART, her blood pressure was maintained compared with that during HD without CART, and an ultrafiltration volume of 3.7 L was achieved after HD with CART. In HD patients with intradialytic hypotension and massive ascites, the combination of CART and ultrafiltration during HD may be an effective therapeutic option for body-fluid management.
Knockdown of miR-214 Alleviates Renal Interstitial Fibrosis by Targeting the Regulation of the PTEN/PI3K/AKT Signalling Pathway
Authors: Hou DongHua , Wu Qi , Wang SiYu , Pang Shuo , Liang Hui , Lyu HuiYan , Zhou Lu , Wang Qiao , Hao Lirong
Published: October 2022

The microRNA-214 (miR-214) precursor is formed by the DNM3 gene on human chromosome 1q24.3, which is encoded and transcribed in the nucleus and processed into mature miR-214 in the cytoplasm. Association of miR-214 with the interstitial fibrosis of the kidney has been reported in existing research. Renal interstitial fibrosis is considered necessary during the process of various renal injuries in chronic kidney disease (CKD). One of the important mechanisms is the TGF- (transforming growth factor-) β1-stimulated epithelial interstitial transformation (EMT). The specific mechanisms of miR-214-3p in renal interstitial fibrosis and whether it participates in EMT are worthy of further investigation. In this paper, we first demonstrated modulation of the downstream PI3K/AKT axis by miR-214-3p through targeting phosphatase and tension protein homologues (PTEN), indicating the miRNA’s participation in unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) nephropathy and TGF-β1-induced EMT. We overexpressed or silenced miR-214-3p and PTEN for probing into the correlation of miR-214-3p with PTEN and the downstream PI3K/AKT signalling pathways. According to the results of the study, miR-214-3p overexpression silenced PTEN, activated the PI3K/AKT signalling pathway, and exacerbated EMT induced by TGF-β1, while miR-214-3p knockdown had the opposite effect. In miR-214-3p knockdown mice, the expression of PTEN was increased, the PI3K/AKT signalling pathway was inhibited, and fibrosis was alleviated. In conclusion, miR-214-3p regulates the EMT of renal tubular cells induced by TGF-β1 by targeting PTEN and regulating the PI3K/AKT signalling pathway. Furthermore, miR-214-3p knockdown can reduce renal interstitial fibrosis through the PTEN/PI3K/AKT pathway.
DPSCs Protect Architectural Integrity and Alleviate Intervertebral Disc Degeneration by Regulating Nucleus Pulposus Immune Status
Authors: Dong Xiwen , Hu Fanqi , Yi Jing , Zhang Yuning , Liu Chao , Geng Panpan , Duan Han , Wu Chu-Tse , Zhang Xuesong , Wang Hua
Published: October 2022

Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration is the primary cause for low back pain that has a high prevalence in modern society and poses enormous economic burden on patients. Few effective therapeutic strategies are available for IVD degeneration treatment. To understand the biological effects of dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) on nucleus pulposus (NP) cells, we carried out RNA sequencing, bioinformatic analysis which unveiled gene expression differences, and pathway variation in primarily isolated patients’ NP cells after treatment with DPSCs supernatant. Western blot and immunofluorescence were used to verify these molecular alterations. Besides, to evaluate the therapeutic effect of DPSCs in IVD degeneration treatment, DPSCs were injected into a degeneration rat model in situ, with treatment outcome measured by micro-CT and histological analysis. RNA sequencing and in vitro experiments demonstrated that DPSCs supernatant could downregulate NP cells’ inflammation-related NF-κB and JAK-STAT pathways, reduce IL-6 production, increase collagen II expression, and mitigate apoptosis. In vivo results showed that DPSCs treatment protected the integrity of the disc structure, alleviated extracellular matrix degradation, and increased collagen fiber expression. In this study, we verified the therapeutic effect of DPSCs in an IVD degeneration rat model and elucidated the underlying molecular mechanism of DPSCs treatment, which provides a foundation for the application of DPSCs in IVD degeneration treatment.
Implication of High Body Fat Percentage on Migraine Chronification in Premenopausal Females
Authors: Ojha Pooja , Malhotra Varun
Published: October 2022

Background. Chronic migraine, being a debilitating headache disorder, needs assessment of the risk factors implicated in its occurrence. We investigated the potential role of obesity as a risk for chronic migraine in premenopausal females with episodic migraine. Methods. In this analytical study, body fat% was compared between episodic and chronic migraine patient groups. The standard criteria of the international classification of headache disorder were used for the diagnosis. Demographic data, clinical details of migraine, and anthropometric measurements were collected using structured questions and standardized techniques. Pearson’s correlation (r) was estimated to assess the concordance between body fat% and migraine frequency. High body fat%’s implication on chronic migraine which was adjusted for body mass index (BMI), and the use of oral contraceptives was determined using logistic regression analysis. Results. A total of 168 premenopausal female migraineurs, with a mean (Standard deviation) age of 33.0 (±9.0) years, were enrolled in the study. BMI and high body fat% were significantly associated with chronic migraine (

p
<
0
.05

). There was a weak positive, but significant, correlation between body fat% and migraine frequency (r = 0.185,

p
<
0
.017

). The presence of high body fat was found to increase the risk of chronic migraine by 2.8 times (confidence interval 1.4–5.6;

p
<
0
.003

). Conclusion. The amount of fat mass in the body relates to the clinical characteristics of migraine. There is an increased risk of developing chronic migraine in patients having high body fat. Weight control measures can be targeted for the prevention of migraine worsening.
Genetic Gain Trend in Yield and Advanced Selection of Yayo Coffee (Coffea arabica L.) Land Race Collection
Authors: Merga Dawit , Beksisa Lemi , Alemayehu Desalegn , Tefera Fekadu , Adisu Melaku , Benti Tadesse , Ayano Ashenafi , Giddisa Gabisa , Kidane Mebrate , Zakir Mohammedsani
Published: October 2022

Coffea arabica L., the dominant cash crop in the world market, is native to rain forest of Ethiopia where it is believed to exist with high genetic diversity. Estimating genetic parameters are momentous in deciding breeding method to be followed for crop genetic improvement including Arabica coffee. The study was conducted with the intention to gauge genetic gain trend in coffee yield and to select advanced promising lines of Yayo coffee landrace for the next breeding step. The study was laid down at Metu research subcenter in 2013, using 124 coffee accessions that were established in simple lattice design under two sets each comprising 62 accessions including two checks. The over six year’s pooled analysis of variance indicated the handiness variability in yield performance among accessions. Moderate genotypic variance (15.46 to13.56%), heritability (56.16–81%), and expected genetic gain (15.52–20.8%) were observed. The genetic parameters and the superiority of check in yield over accessions elucidated that high yielder variety development by selection is difficult unless heterosis attaining breeding method followed, particularly for these Yayo coffee landrace origin. Common high genetic gain trend (49.19 and 100 kg·ha−1) and response to selection (196.76 and 400 kg·ha−1), selection differential 471.9 and 739.23 kg·ha−1 were revealed in over four harvesting seasons mean value for both sets. Thus, selection is more effective in earlier season than late. High yielding accessions, Y27 and Y93, gave 3013.1 and 125.8 kg·ha−1 yield gain over the high yielder check correspondingly. Despite the top 15 and 10 high yielders were selected from set-I and set-II, respectively, a total of 20 accessions with contrasting desirable traits were selected and established in crossing block for genetic improvement purposes via heterotic hybrid variety development program. These accessions were tolerant to major coffee disease and have desirable agronomic traits.
The Comprehensive Analysis of Hub Gene ARRB2 in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Zhou Bing , Song Hong , Xu Wuqin , Zhang Yanbin , Liu Yinhua , Qi Wei
Published: October 2022

Objects. As a frequent tumor in males, prostate adenocarcinoma (PRAD) results from the malignant proliferation of prostate epithelial cells. Here, we aim to investigate the latent pathogenesis of PRAD and find specific biomarkers for its treatment and prognosis. Methods. The differential expressed genes (DEGs) were screened from the gene expression profile GSE30994 related to PRAD and then analyzed by protein-protein interaction (PPI) to screen the hub gene. Subsequently, the relation between hub gene and pan cancers, PRAD prognosis, and immunotherapy was analyzed. Besides, the effects of hub gene on the growth and metastasis of PRAD cell lines and inflammatory factors (IFs) were detected by functional experiments. Results. 276 upregulated and 1,861 downregulated DEGs were analyzed from GSE30994 gene expression profiles. Through enrichment analysis, it was found that upregulated DEGs were significantly enriched in nitric oxide-mediated signal transduction, insulin signaling pathway, etc. Through PPI networks, ARRB2 was determined as the hub gene that was highly expressed in pan cancers, including PRAD, and contributed to poor prognosis of PRAD patients. Immunoassay showed that ARRB2 was associated with B cells, NK cells, endothelial cells, etc. and also connected with tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). Next, the signature model analysis revealed that ARRB2 had a clinical value in predicting PRAD prognosis. In functional experiments, ARRB2 was highly expressed in PRAD cell lines, promoted PRAD cell growth and metastasis, and positively associated with IFs. Conclusion. ARRB2 has a good prognostic ability in PRAD, and it could be a potential target of PRAD immunotherapy, which offers new directions for PRAD research.
Development of Open Transport of Aqueous Fluid from Pegmatite Revealed by Trace Elements in Garnet
Authors: Nurdiana Astin , Okamoto Atsushi , Uno Masaoki , Tsuchiya Noriyoshi
Published: October 2022

We investigated the fluid flow and elemental transport from a granitic body to the middle crust by determining the trace element compositions of garnet in pegmatites related to a quartz diorite intrusion and metamorphic rocks on Kinkasan Island, northeast Japan. Garnet in the pegmatites and biotite schists is characterized by spessartine– (Sps–) almandine- (Alm-) rich compositions of Sps14–69Alm22–70Prp2–14Grs1–13 and Sps16–30Alm54–66Prp9–16Grs3–6, respectively. A garnetite pod in the metamorphic unit has grossular- (Grs-) rich compositions (Sps1–4Alm8–11Prp0.1–0.4Grs80–87Adr3–4). The peak temperature (

T

) and pressure (

P

) conditions of the biotite schist during contact metamorphism were 600–650°C and 0.27–0.41 GPa, respectively. The primary fluid inclusions in quartz crystals within the pegmatites hosted by the quartz diorite and hosted by the metamorphic rocks have a wide range of homogenization temperatures (200–380°C). These correspond to the trapping temperature of 500–700°C, assuming a salinity of 4 wt.% NaClequivalent at pressure of the crystallization of the quartz diorite. Chondrite-normalized rare earth element (REE) patterns of garnets in the pegmatites in the quartz diorite and metamorphic unit are generally characterized by enrichment of heavy REEs and negative Eu anomalies with the REE contents in the schists which are systematically lower than in the pegmatites. However, garnet in the biotite schists close to the pegmatites has similar REE contents to garnet in the adjacent pegmatites. These geochemical features suggest that garnet in the biotite schists grew in response to fluid infiltration from the pegmatites. Besides, the Grs-rich garnet in the garnetite pod and its host quartz schist have flat heavy REE patterns and no Eu anomalies, which probably reflect a metasomatic process related to plagioclase replacement that produced Ca-Al-rich fluids. Our results suggest that the infiltration of pegmatitic fluids enhances elemental transport and metamorphic reactions in the middle crust.
Manual Acupuncture or Combination of Rehabilitation Therapy to Treat Poststroke Dysphagia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Jiang Hailun , Zhang Qiang , Zhao Qi , Chen Hao , Nan Xi , Liu Miao , Yin Chunsheng , Liu Wei , Fan Xiaonong , Meng Zhihong , Du Yuzheng
Published: October 2022

Backgroundand Objective. Poststroke dysphagia is one of the most common stroke complications with high morbidity and long course, while acupuncture treatment is easily accepted by patients due to its reliability, feasibility, simple operation, low price, and quick effect. Our objective was to evaluate the efficacy of manual acupuncture in poststroke dysphagia patients. Methods. Databases including Medline, Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane Library databases, EMBASE, CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure), WanFang (WanFang Database), and VIP (Chongqing VIP) were searched from inception until Aug 19, 2022. Data were analyzed using Revman 5.3, Stata 14.0, and TSA 0.9.5.10 Beta software. Evidence quality evaluation was performed by using GRADE profiler 3.6. Results. A total of 33 randomized control trials (RCTs) enrolled 2680 patients. Meta-analysis results revealed that compared to rehabilitation, acupuncture decreased water swallow test (WST) and standard swallowing assessment (SSA) scores. Meanwhile, in contrast to rehabilitation alone, integration of acupuncture with rehabilitation effectively decreased WST and SSA scores; improved swallowing scores of videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS), swallowing scores of Fujishima Ichiro, Barthel index (BI), and swallowing quality of life questionnaire (SWAL-QOL); reduced the aspiration rates as well as aspiration pneumonia; and shortened the duration of empty swallowing and the duration of 5 mL water swallowing. Pooled analysis did not reveal any significant differences in dysphagia outcome severity scores (DOSS) (

p
=
0.15
>
0.05

p) between the acupuncture group combined with rehabilitation group and the rehabilitation group alone. After the risk-of-bias assessment, these studies were not of low quality, except in terms of allocation concealment and blindness. Evidence quality evaluation showed that allocation concealment and blindness led to a downgrade and primary outcomes’ evaluation of acupuncture combined with rehabilitation were ranked as moderate-quality evidence while acupuncture alone was ranked as low-quality. Conclusion. This meta-analysis provided positive pieces of evidences that acupuncture and acupuncture combined with rehabilitation were better than using rehabilitation alone in the treatment of poststroke dysphagia.
Identification and Validation of a Novel Multiomics Signature for Prognosis and Immunotherapy Response of Endometrial Carcinoma
Authors: Wu Zhicheng , Wang Qiu , Liu Xiuqing , Zheng Jiantong , Ji Ling , Li Xiaofeng
Published: October 2022

Purpose. Cancer development and immune escape involve DNA methylation, copy number variation, and other molecular events. However, there are remarkably few studies integrating multiomics genetic profiles into endometrial cancer (EC). This study aimed to develop a multiomics signature for the prognosis and immunotherapy response of endometrial carcinoma. Methods. The gene expression, somatic mutation, copy number alteration, and DNA methylation data of EC were analyzed from the UCSC Xena database. Then, a multiomics signature was constructed by a machine learning model, with the ROC curve comparing its prognostic power with traditional clinical features. Two computational strategies were utilized to estimate the signature’s performance in predicting immunotherapy response in EC. Further validation focused on the most frequently mutant molecule, ARID1A, in the signature. The association of ARID1A with survival, MSI (Microsatellite-instability), immune checkpoints, TIL (tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte), and downstream immune pathways was explored. Results. The signature consisted of 22 multiomics molecules, showing excellent prognostic performance in predicting the overall survival of patients with EC (AUC = 0.788). After stratifying patients into a high and low-risk group according to the signature’s median value, low-risk patients displayed a greater possibility of respond to immunotherapy. Further validation on ARID1A suggested it could induce immune checkpoints upregulation, promote interferon response pathway, and interact with Treg (regulatory T cell) to facilitate immune activation in EC. Conclusion. A novel multiomics prognostic signature of EC was identified and validated in this study, which could guide clinical management of EC and benefit personalized immunotherapy.
Adaptive Gradient-Based Optimization Method for Parameter Identification in Power Distribution Network
Authors: Li Bin , Jiang Yehai , Hu Ke , Zhou Xiangyi , Chen Haoran , Xu Shihe , Jiao Hao , Chen Jinming
Published: October 2022

Accurate device parameters play a critical role in the calculation and analysis of power distribution networks (PDNs). However, device parameters are always affected by the operating status and influenced by manual entry. Besides, the distribution area of PDN is very wide, which brings more challenges to parameter identification work. Therefore, developing appropriate algorithms for accurately identifying PDN parameters has attracted much more attention from researchers recently. Most of the existing parameter identification algorithms are gradient-free and based on heuristic schemes. Herein, an adaptive gradient-based method is proposed for parameter identification in PDN. The analytical expressions of the gradients of the loss function with respect to the parameters are derived, and an adaptive updating scheme is utilized. By comparing the proposed method and several heuristic algorithms, it is found that the errors in both three criteria via our solution are much lower with a much smoother and more stable convergence of loss function. By further taking a linear transformation of the loss function, the method of this work significantly promotes the parameter identification performance with much lower variance in repeat experiments, indicating that the proposed method in this work achieves a more robust performance to identify PDN parameters. This work gives a practical demonstration by utilizing the gradient-based method for parameter identification of PDN.
Associations between Extracellular Matrix Protein 1 Gene Polymorphism and Progression of Liver Disease
Authors: He Xiuting , Liu Ting , Zhang Rui , Li Xu
Published: October 2022

Background. Our study aimed to investigate the relationship between extracellular matrix 1 (ECM1) gene polymorphism and progression of liver fibrosis in the Chinese population. Methods. A total 656 patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and 298 healthy individuals of the Chinese Han population were recruited for a retrospective case-control study. Of the disease group, 104 cases had chronic hepatitis B (CHB), 266 had LC, and 286 had hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Subjects were frequency-matched according to age and gender. Polymorphisms of the ECM1 gene were examined using the MassARRAY SNP genotyping method. Results. There were no associations between genotype and allele frequencies of ECM1 rs3737240 and rs13294 loci with the risk of CHB and CHB-related HCC. After adjustment for age, sex, smoking status, and drinking habits, the GT genotype was dramatically related to a reduced risk of chronic HBV infection in both non-HCC (OR = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.49-0.94) and total chronic HBV infection patients (OR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.56-1.00). Haplotype analyses revealed twelve protective haplotypes against total chronic HBV infection and four against non-HCC chronic HBV infection. Conclusion. ECM1 gene polymorphism in rs3834087 and rs3754217 loci is associated with a reduced risk of chronic HBV infection but not with liver fibrosis development and the occurrence of HCC.
Prediction of Cervical Lymph Nodes Metastasis in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma (PTC) Using Nodal Staging Score (NSS)
Authors: Zhang Jianliang , Jia Guangwei , Su Yang , Zhang Zhongji , Xiong Hui , Xu Qiu , Meng Shan
Published: October 2022

Background. Cervical lymph node metastasis is commonly seen in papillary thyroid carcinoma. Surgery is the preferred treatment for PTC with cervical lymph node metastasis. There is no alternate ultrasound, neck CT, and thyroglobulin (Tg) methods to assess the occult lymph node metastasis. For moderate-and high-risk PTC, the number of lymph nodes to be dissected should be increased to remove the occult lymph node metastasis. Objective. This study was designed to develop a nodal staging score model to predict the likelihood of lymph node metastasis in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC), and further guide the treatments. Material and Methods. Data were collected from the SEER database. Patients with PTC from 2000 to 2005 were selected. The beta-binomial model was adopted to establish a nodal staging score (NSS)-based model. The NSS-based model was built according to gender, age, extrathyroidal invasion, tumor multifocality, tumor size, and T stage of the patients. A total of 12,431 PTC patients were included in our study. Various types of lymph nodes were examined based on various categories (incidence, risk assessment) to evaluate the results. Results. 5,959 (47.9%) patients in the study were positive and 6,472 (52.1%) were confirmed negative for lymph node metastasis. The corrected incidence of lymph node metastasis was higher than that of direct calculation, regardless of the factors that affected lymph node metastasis. There were significant differences in the OS of PTC patients among the four groups and T stage (

p

is less than 0.05), indicating that cervical lymph node metastasis would have an impact on the prognosis of patients. Conclusion. In conclusion, an NSS-based model base on a variety of clinicopathological factors can be used to predict lymph node metastasis. It is important to evaluate the risk of occult lymph node metastasis in the treatment of PTC.. Since, this statistical model can describe the risk of occult lymph node metastasis in patients; therefore, it can be used as basis for decision-making related to the number of lymph nodes that can be dissected in operations.
Minocycline-Induced Gum Pigmentation during Treatment for Acne Vulgaris
Authors: Wang Jami , Brown Isabella , Goodarzi Heidi
Published: October 2022

Minocycline, a type of tetracycline, is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that is commonly prescribed in dermatology for the treatment of acne vulgaris. Common side effects of minocycline include nausea, vertigo, and dizziness while less common side effects include hyperpigmentation. In this case study, we found an 18-year-old female who presented with dark blue pigmentation in her upper gum after using minocycline on and off for 4 years. After discontinuation of the minocycline for 2 years, the pigmentation decreased gradually.
Influence of Coated Electrode in Nanopowder Mixed EDM of Al–Zn–Mg–Si3N4 Composite
Authors: Anbuchezhiyan G. , Saravanan R. , Pugazhenthi R. , Palani Kumaran , Mamidi Vamsi Krishna
Published: October 2022

Machinability investigation of new material is one of the mandatory investigations to complete the purpose of creation of it. Electrical discharge machining (EDM) is one of the promising unconventional machining processes for highly accurate machining performance in difficult-to-cut material even machining complicated profiles. The powder-mixed EDM and nanopowder-mixed EDM are the improved versions of the EDM. The Al–Zn–Mg composite is reinforced with Si3N4 (9 wt. %) for meeting automotive and marine applications. The aluminium nanoparticles enhanced deionised water was used in NPMEDM. The nickel-coated brass and uncoated brass tube electrode were considered for the investigation. Pulse on time (µs), voltage (V), input current (A), and capacitance (nF) were independent variables and varied at 3 levels. The microhole machining performance with a coated and uncoated electrode was investigated. The L18 orthogonal array involved in the experimental design, material removal rate, and electrode wear rate were analysed. The SEM analysis was employed in the surface morphological study of electrodes before and after machining. The input parameters were optimised for the coated electrode for the responses of MRR and EWR.
Serum Uric Acid Is Associated with the Progression of Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction in Apparently Healthy Subjects
Authors: Yang Chen Die , Feng Shuo , Chen Jia Wei , Aihemaiti Muladili , Shu Xin Yi , Quan Jin Wei , Ding Feng Hua , Lu Lin , Shen Wei Feng , Zhang Rui Yan , Wang Xiao Qun
Published: October 2022

Background. Left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) is the defining feature of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and predicts subsequent incident heart failure (HF) and all-cause mortality. Mounting evidence reveals that cardiometabolic risk factors play critical roles in the development of LVDD. In this study, we sought to investigate the relation between serum uric acid (SUA) level and the progression of LVDD in apparently healthy patients. Methods. A total of 1082 apparently healthy subjects without diagnosed cardiovascular disease and LVDD were consecutively enrolled. SUA levels were measured, and repeat echocardiography and tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) were performed at baseline and during 1-year follow-up. Results. By dividing the study population based on quartiles of SUA, we found subjects in higher quartiles had greater increases in TDI-derived early diastolic velocity (e

′

) and E (peak LV filling velocity)/e

′

ratios during 1-year follow-up. After multivariate adjustment, high SUA persisted to be an independent predictor for the subsequent worsening of LVDD (odds ratio: 1.351 [95% CI 1.125~1.625], per 100 μmol/L SUA). Subgroup analysis suggested that the association between SUA and LVDD development was more pronounced in subjects without other cardiometabolic risk factors involved. Factor analysis demonstrated that high SUA was the major cardiometabolic attribute in patients with LVDD progression. Conclusion. Our findings suggest that high SUA is an independent cardiometabolic risk factor for the progression of LVDD in apparently healthy subjects.
Decisional Factors for Purchasing Beef Labeled with Animal Welfare in Korea
Authors: Seok Jun Ho , Woo Byungjoon , Kim Hyunjoong , Kim GwanSeon
Published: October 2022

In this study, we investigate important decisional factors for the purchase intention of animal welfare labeled beef in Korea considering direct and indirect paths (trust and attitudes). Using a structural equation model with 300 samples from the Korea consumer panel survey, we find that perceived knowledge and revealed information positively affect consumer purchase intention for beef labeled as supporting animal welfare. Our results also show that a subjective norm (positive opinions of friends or family on animal welfare) has a positive effect on the purchase of beef labeled as “welfare conscious.” Based on our results, we can derive policy implications for expanding animal welfare raising practices to achieve sustainable development in the livestock sector without ethical and environmental side effects. Three possible policy alternatives include an online word-of-mouth strategy for improving subjective norms, enhancing animal welfare labeling information, and setting up public education for such labeling.