bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Precision Analysis of Noncircular Gears Based on CNC Machining Technology under Cloud Computing Platform
Authors: Dai JianQing , Xu Wei , OuYang FenFen
Published: June 2022

In order to solve the problem of machining error of noncircular gears, a method based on the analysis and research of the accuracy of noncircular gears based on CNC machining technology under the cloud computing platform is proposed to further improve the technical accuracy of noncircular gears. The error and error items are analyzed mainly, and a model framework based on cloud computing platform is proposed on this basis. The architecture of the system is deeply analyzed, focusing on the dynamic integration method of gear cloud measurement system resources based on cloud platform, building a gear cloud measurement system based on cloud computing platform, and testing needs to use Hadoop to install the software that needs to be prepared: virtual machine version, VMware Workstation-14.0.0 build-6661328, Linux version. The results show that the technical support of the cloud computing platform can effectively improve the accuracy of noncircular gears.
FPGA-Based Deep Learning Models for Analysing Corona Using Chest X-Ray Images
Authors: Namburu Anupama , Sumathi D. , Raut Roshani , Jhaveri Rutvij H. , Dhanaraj Rajesh Kumar , Subbulakshmi N. , Balusamy Balamurugan
Published: June 2022

Coronavirus is a large family of viruses that affects humans and damages respiratory functions ranging from cold to more serious diseases such as ARDS and SARS. But the most recently discovered virus causes COVID-19. Isolation at home or hospital depends on one’s health history and conditions. The prevailing disease that might get instigated due to the existence of the virus might lead to deterioration in health. Therefore, there is a need for early detection of the virus. Recently, many works are found to be observed with the deployment of techniques for the detection based on chest X-rays. In this work, a solution has been proposed that consists of a sample prototype of an AI-based Flask-driven web application framework that predicts the six different diseases including ARDS, bacteria, COVID-19, SARS, Streptococcus, and virus. Here, each category of X-ray images was placed under scrutiny and conducted training and testing using deep learning algorithms such as CNN, ResNet (with and without dropout), VGG16, and AlexNet to detect the status of X-rays. Recent FPGA design tools are compatible with software models in deep learning methods. FPGAs are suitable for deep learning algorithms to make the design as flexible, innovative, and hardware acceleration perspective. High-performance FPGA hardware is advantageous over GPUs. Looking forward, the device can efficiently integrate with the deep learning modules. FPGAs act as a challenging substitute podium where it bridges the gap between the architectures and power-related designs. FPGA is a better option for the implementation of algorithms. The design attains 121µW power and 89 ms delay. This was implemented in the FPGA environment and observed that it attains a reduced number of gate counts and low power.
Evaluation on Effect of Acupoint Application to Treat Idiopathic Edema of Perimenopausal Women Using the Segmentation Dictionary Learning Algorithm
Authors: Li Jinfeng , Wang Jiao , Zhao Wenxia , Wang Pei , Li Min
Published: June 2022

This study aimed to explore the effect of ultrasound imaging in the diagnosis and evaluation of acupoint application in the treatment of idiopathic edema. In this study, an ultrasound imaging diagnosis based on the segmentation dictionary learning (S-DL) algorithm was proposed. In addition, the autoencoding algorithm (ASE) was compared with the traditional dictionary learning (DL) algorithm. The treatment effect, associated quantitative integral, and quality of life score of patients in two groups were compared. The results showed that the peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR), root mean square error (RMSE), and structural similarity (SSIM) of the S-DL algorithm were 32.45 dB, 0.654, and 0.0012, respectively, which were quite different compared to the ASE and DL algorithms, showing statistical significance (

P
<
0.05

). As the noise level increased, the image reconstruction quality gradually decreased, but the S-DL algorithm obtained better image quality than the DL and ASE algorithms, and the difference was statistically great (

P
<
0.05

). There was no significant difference in the average age and average course of the disease between the experimental group and the control group (

P
>
0.05

). The overall treatment effect of patients in the experimental group was 96.77%, while that in the control group was 45.16%, and the difference between the two was statistically significant (

P
<
0.05

). After treatment, the semiquantitative scores of fatigue, dizziness, palpitation, frequent urination, urgent urination, and dyspepsia of the experimental group were 1.18, 0.39, 0.72, 1.21, and 0.87, respectively, which were much lower than those of the control group statistically (

P
<
0.05

). The score of quality of life of the experimental group of patients after treatment was 91.27 points, and that of the control group was 82.35 points, showing statistically great difference (

P
<
0.05

). It showed that the algorithm performance of S-DL was relatively good, and the acupoint application therapy was better than traditional western medicine in the treatment of idiopathic edema, which reduces the discomfort of patients to a certain extent and improves the quality of life of patients.
Gender Differences in Cardiovascular Risk Factors, Clinical Presentation, and Outcome of Patients Admitted with a Hypertensive Crisis at the Buea Regional Hospital, Cameroon
Authors: Nkoke Clovis , Jingi Ahmadou Musa , Noubiap Jean Jacques , Teuwafeu Denis , Nkouonlack Cyrille , Gobina Ronald , Djibrilla Siddikatou , Abas Ali , Dzudie Anastase
Published: June 2022

Background. Several recent studies have shown differences in the risk profile and outcome of cardiovascular diseases between men and women, with a dearth of data from African populations. This study aimed to examine gender differences in a group of patients from Cameroon hospitalized with a hypertensive crisis. Methods. We conducted a cross-sectional study from June 2018 until June 2019. The criteria to define a hypertensive crisis (HC) were systolic and/or diastolic blood pressure should be ≥180/110 mmHg. We compared the clinical presentation and outcome of males versus females. Results. Out of the 1536 patients admitted, 95 (6.2%) had an HC. There were 49 (51.6%) men. There was no significant age difference between men and women (52.7 years vs. 49.3 years,

p
=
0.28

). Alcohol consumption (

p
<
0.0001

), previous stroke (

p
=
0.04

), and smoking (

p
=
0.03

) were significantly higher in men compared to women. Men had a higher proportion of psychomotor agitation (

p
=
0.05

). There was an equal proportion of men and women with hypertensive emergencies. Although acute left ventricular failure was most frequent in women (46.4% vs 42.9%), cerebral infarction (14.3% vs 17.9%), and acute coronary syndrome (0% vs 7.1%) were higher in men, the differences were not statistically significant (all

p
>
0.05

). Case fatality was also higher in men compared to women but the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusions. Men admitted for an HC had a significantly higher cardiovascular risk burden and higher psychomotor agitation. However, there were no significant differences in the types of hypertensive emergencies and outcomes between men and women.
Jewelry Art Modeling Design Method Based on Computer-Aided Technology
Authors: Li Yuan , Wen Hai
Published: June 2022

In order to improve the effect of jewelry art modeling design, this paper applies computer-aided technology to jewelry art modeling design. Moreover, in order to solve the situation that the given data points do not form a topological rectangular grid, an interpolation algorithm based on triangular BB surfaces is specially studied in this paper. The algorithm automatically triangulates the given scattered data points to establish the topological relationship between the data points, and modified and optimized the triangulation algorithm according to the requirements of jewelry art modeling design. In addition, the improved algorithm can handle the triangulation problem of spatial data points well, and the triangulation speed is fast. The experimental verification shows that the jewelry art modeling design method based on computer-aided technology proposed in this paper can effectively improve the effect of jewelry art modeling design.
Improvement of Mobile Learning Model in Flipped Classroom in English Classroom Teaching: Based on Big Data Analysis
Authors: Kou Xiangying , Song Qi
Published: June 2022

This paper innovates the improvement of the mobile learning model of flipped classroom in English classroom teaching on the basis of big data analysis technology. Through the case study, the big data analysis technology is used to analyze and explore the learning characteristics of students and combine with teachers’ teaching experience to dynamically adjust the teachers’ teaching strategies. And on the basis of the new model, an assessment model for students, teachers, and school leadership is proposed as a way to build a new and harmonious teacher-student relationship.
Application of Virtual Reality Technology in the Restoration of Architectural Decoration Space
Authors: Li Bin , Yan Wei
Published: June 2022

This paper investigates the application method of architectural decoration space transformation construction, constructs the architectural decoration model based on virtual reality technology, realizes the three-dimensional display of architectural decoration space structure, and optimizes the construction of architectural decoration space transformations in order to solve the unreasonable problem of architectural decoration space combined with virtual reality technology. The experimental results show that using virtual reality technology in the construction of architectural decoration space transformation can better ensure the rationality of building structure and improve the construction efficiency of architectural decoration space transformation, thereby simplifying the space transformation process and improving space transformation quality.
Global Existence and Blow-Up of Solutions to a Parabolic Nonlocal Equation Arising in a Theory of Thermal Explosion
Authors: Ma Wenyuan , Zhao Zhixuan , Yan Baoqiang
Published: June 2022

Focusing on the physical context of the thermal explosion model, this paper investigates a semilinear parabolic equation

u

t

=
Δ
u
+
a

∫

Ω

u

p

d
x
,

x
,
t

∈

Q

T

,

n
·
∇
u
+
g

u

u
=
0
,

x
,
t

∈

S

T

,

u

x
,
0

=

u

0

x

,

x
∈
Ω

with nonlocal sources under nonlinear heat-loss boundary conditions, where

a
,
p
>
0

is constant,

Q

T

=
Ω
×

0
,
T

,

S

T

=
∂
Ω
×

0
,
T

, and

Ω

is a bounded region in

R

N

,
N
≥
1

with a smooth boundary

∂
Ω

. First, we prove a comparison principle for some kinds of semilinear parabolic equations under nonlinear boundary conditions; using it, we show a new theorem of subsupersolutions. Secondly, based on the new method of subsupersolutions, the existence of global solutions and blow-up solutions is presented for different values of

p

. Finally, the blow-up rate for solutions is estimated also.
Application of Environmentally Friendly Materials in the Design of Children’s Furniture Based on Fuzzy Technology
Authors: Wei Peng , Madina Zamira
Published: June 2022

In today’s society, children’s furniture is an important piece of furniture for every household. Consumers and even companies may ignore its environmental merits since it is not a regular item of home furniture. This research focuses on the use of environmentally friendly materials in the design of children’s furniture and combines fuzzy technology with structured design technology to build a fuzzy technology-based children’s furniture design system. This research also introduces two intelligent systems for the design of children’s furniture, analyzes the structure of children’s furniture via structured design, and produces an interactive system with user experience. Finally, this component conducts a system test study based on real-world needs. The experimental research results show that the children’s furniture design system based on fuzzy technology proposed in this paper has a good user experience and can play an important role in the application of environmentally friendly materials in the design of children’s furniture.
IgG4-Related Hepatic Pseudotumor Masquerading as a Klatskin Tumor
Authors: Yoon Jennifer , Hu Steve , Phillips Daniel , Fathi Amir , Ameer Adnan
Published: June 2022

Immunoglobulin G subclass 4 (IgG-4)-related disease (IgG4-RD) is an uncommon immune-mediated, fibro-inflammatory disease which has garnered recognition as a systemic condition. One manifestation of the disease in the hepatobiliary system is the development of hepatic inflammatory pseudotumors. These benign tumors are often misdiagnosed as malignant tumors and undergo unnecessary hepatic resections. We present a case of IgG4-related hepatic inflammatory pseudotumor (IPT) mimicking a Klatskin tumor. A high degree of clinical suspicion and extensive workup is imperative in reaching the correct diagnosis. IgG4-related inflammatory pseudotumor is a rare entity, but an important consideration in evaluating hepatic tumors.
MicroRNA-17-5p Protects against Propofol Anesthesia-Induced Neurotoxicity and Autophagy Impairment via Targeting BCL2L11
Authors: Xiu Mingyu , Luan Hengfei , Gu Xiaojiao , Liu Chuang , Xu Deming
Published: June 2022

Background. Propofol (PPF) has been shown in studies to cause cognitive impairment and neuronal cell death in developing animals. PPF has been demonstrated to decrease the expression of microRNA-17-5p (miR-17-5p) in a recent study. Nonetheless, the function of miR-17-5p in PPF-induced neurotoxicity and related mechanisms is uncharacterized. Methods. After the induction of neurotoxicity by treating the SH-SY5Y cells with PPF, qRT-PCR was conducted to evaluate the level of miR-17-5p. Using MTT and flow cytometry, cell viability and apoptosis rate were assessed, respectively. Interaction between miR-17-5p and BCL2 like 11 was (BCL2L11) studied using a Luciferase reporter assay. With the help of western blot analysis, we determined the level of proteins of apoptosis-related genes and autophagy-related markers. Results. In SH-SY5Y cells, PPF treatment induced neurotoxicity and downregulated miR-17-5p expression. In SH-SY5Y cells post-PPF exposure, overexpression of miR-17-5p increased cell viability and decreased apoptosis. Consistently, miR-17-5p mimics mitigated PPF-generated autophagy via inhibition of Atg5, Beclin1, and LC3II/I level and elevation of p62 protein expression. In addition, BCL2L11, which was highly expressed in PPF-treated SH-SY5Y cells, was directly targeted by miR-17-5p. Further, in PPF-treated SH-SY5Y cells, overexpressed BCL2L11 counteracted the suppressing behavior of miR-17-5p elevation on PPF-induced apoptosis. Conclusion. Overexpressed miR-17-5p alleviates PPF exposure-induced neurotoxicity and autophagy in SH-SY5Y cells via binding to BCL2L11, suggesting the possibility that miR-17-5p can serve as a candidate in the treatment of neurotoxicity (caused by PPF).
Investigating the Effect of Using Game-Based Learning on EFL Learners’ Motivation and Anxiety
Authors: Ahmed Alim Al Ayub , Ampry Evy Segarawati , Komariah Aan , Hassan Isyaku , Thahir Irmawati , Hussein Ali Muneam , Fawzi Faisal Athraa , Zafarani Pardis
Published: June 2022

This study intended to examine the effects of game-based learning on Iranian EFL learners’ language anxiety and motivation. In order to perform the study, the quantitative research method was applied. In this study, 58 Iranian intermediate EFL participants were selected and divided into two groups: control and experimental. Then, the questionnaires of the Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety Scale (FLCAS) and Motivation Test Battery (AMTB) were administered to the participants of both groups as the pretests of the study. After pretesting, 90 English vocabulary items were trained to the EG by using game-based learning, but the same vocabulary items were taught to the CG traditionally. After teaching the vocabularies, the mentioned questionnaires were administered again as the post-tests of the study. The results of independent samples t-tests revealed that implementing game-based learning had the potential of reducing EFL learners’ anxiety to improve their English learning. Also, the results indicated that applying game-based learning increased the language motivation of Iranian EFL learners.
Performance of MODIS Deep Blue Collection 6.1 Aerosol Optical Depth Products Over Indonesia: Spatiotemporal Variations and Aerosol Types
Authors: Hutauruk Rheinhart C. H. , Permana Donaldi S. , Rangga Imron A. , Sucianingsih Cici , Nuraini Tri A.
Published: June 2022

This study aims to evaluate the performance of the long-term Terra Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) Deep Blue (DB) Collection 6.1 (C6.1) in determining the spatiotemporal variation of aerosol optical depth (AOD) and aerosol types over Indonesia. For this purpose, monthly MODIS DB AOD datasets are directly compared with Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) Version 3 Level 2.0 (cloud-screened and quality-assured) monthly measurements at 8 sites throughout Indonesia. The results indicate that MODIS DB AOD retrievals and AERONET AOD measurements have a high correlation in Sumatra Island (i.e., Kototabang (r = 0.88) and Jambi (r = 0.9)) and Kalimantan Island (i.e., Palangkaraya (r = 0.89) and Pontianak (r = 0.92)). However, the correlations are low in Bandung, Palu, and Sorong. In general, MODIS DB AOD tends to overestimate AERONET AOD at all sites by 16 to 61% and can detect extreme fire events in Sumatra and Kalimantan Islands quite well. Aerosol types in Indonesia mostly consist of clean continental, followed by biomass burning/urban industrial and mixed aerosols. Palu and Sorong had the highest clean continental aerosol contribution (90%), while Bandung had the highest biomass burning/urban-industrial aerosol contribution to atmospheric composition (93.7%). For mixed aerosols, the highest contribution was found in Pontianak, with a proportion of 48.4%. Spatially, the annual mean AOD in the western part of Indonesia is higher than in the eastern part. Seasonally, the highest AOD is observed during the period of September–November, which is associated with the emergence of fire events.
Nonlinear Random Matrix-Based Intelligent Management Model for Swimming Place Waters
Authors: Yuan Rui , Han Yuexing , Lu Xi
Published: June 2022

In this paper, a nonlinear random matrix approach is used to analyze the management of swimming place waters, and in this way, an intelligent management model is designed and applied to the actual swimming place waters management. Firstly, some basic small deviation results of the random matrix are presented. Then, several types of small deviation inequalities are obtained for the maximum eigenvalues of independent stochastic semi-positive definite (PSD) matrices. These small deviation inequalities are independent of the matrix dimension, and the results apply to high-dimensional and even infinite-dimensional matrices. For the inverse eigenvalue problem of higher-order doubly random matrices, the conclusion that two symmetric doubly random matrices are combined into a higher-order symmetric doubly random matrix is proved. In other words, the method of constructing new symmetric random matrices using smaller matrices with known spectra is applied to the inverse eigenvalue problem of higher-order symmetric random matrices, and sufficient conditions for the existence of the solution of the inverse eigenvalue problem of higher-order random matrices are derived, avoiding the discussion of the parity of the number of eigenvalues. This paper focuses on realistic management, to explore the standardization of safety management of swimming venues, and is based on modern management theory, risk management theory and methods, using research integration method, fieldwork method, questionnaire survey method, expert interview method, and other research methods, detailing the methods and conclusions of risk identification in safety management of swimming venues, and further exploring the safety management standards of swimming venues on this basis. And, combined with risk management theory, depending on the probability of occurrence and the degree of harm of risk, four basic disposal methods such as risk avoidance, risk control, risk transfer, and risk self-retaining are proposed.
The Diagnostic Value of GGT‐Based Biochemical Indicators for Choledocholithiasis with Negative Imaging Results of Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography
Authors: Lin Huajun , Zhou Xiaona , Zhang Zhongtao
Published: June 2022

To reveal the relationship between a group of preoperative biochemical indicators such as GGT, ALP, ALT, AST, TB, and DB and the occurrence of common bile duct stones in patients with negative results of magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography, a retrospective diagnostic accuracy clinical test is conducted in this study. In order to reduce the missed diagnosis rate of choledocholithiasis and perform more accurate common bile duct exploration, 466 patients who underwent surgical treatment of cholelithiasis from January 2014 to December 2015 have been analyzed retrospectively. Firstly, the confounding factors are corrected through Binary Logistic regression. Then, the diagnostic efficacy of each indicator is measured by the ROC curve among different types of patients. In all patients, the top three individual indicators with the greatest AUC curve area for predicting common bile duct stones can be observed from the results of MRCP, γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase, and alkaline phosphatase. Besides, the diagnostic efficiency of the comprehensive evaluation is higher than that of all individual indicators. For MRCP‐negative patients, the top three largest AUC curve area of the diagnostic efficacy for choledocholithiasis were GGT, ALP, and DB. For patients who have a suspected diagnosis of secondary choledocholithiasis, the diagnostic efficacy of the combination of imaging results, biochemical indexes, common bile duct width, and other abnormal indicators for choledocholithiasis is much higher than that of the single abnormal biochemical indexes for the prediction of choledocholithiasis. For MRCP‐negative patients, GGT, ALP, DB, and the width of common bile duct diameter are valuable for the prediction of common bile duct stones, and GGT is the most valuable diagnostic predictor.
Intelligent Reconstruction Algorithm-Based Computed Tomography Images for Automatic Detection of Gastric Tumor
Authors: Zhang Yuanyuan , Chen Lisha , Chen Huixin
Published: June 2022

The aim of this study was to explore the application of computed tomography (CT) images in the diagnosis of gastric tumor under the intelligent reconstruction algorithm (IRA). 120 patients with gastric cancer were selected and all the patients underwent CT scanning, and CT images were analyzed based on the Feldkamp-Davis-Kress algorithm (FDK algorithm) to evaluate the imaging features of gastric lesions. According to biopsy or surgical pathology, the detection rate of CT images was calculated. The results showed that there were three pathological types of benign tumors (polyps, leiomyomas, and mesenchymomas) and three pathological types of malignant tumors (mesenchymomas, adenomas, and lymphomas). In addition, the detection rates of CT scans were different, reaching 94.2% on different orientations of the stomach, 90.7% of benign tumors, and 90.9% of malignant tumors, so the detection rate of different orientations was relatively high. CT images based on the FDK IRA could realize a high detection rate in diagnosis, accurately locate the lesion, and display the characteristics of the lesion and the metastasis of surrounding tissues; there were significant differences between benign and malignant gastric tumors in CT images, and the detection effect was obvious, which is worthy of clinical application and promotion.
Numb Promotes Autophagy through p53 Pathway in Acute Kidney Injury Induced by Cisplatin
Authors: Liu Ze , Li Yong , He Yongmei , Wang Junjie
Published: June 2022

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is an important public health concern and characterized as tubular death involved in apoptosis and necrosis. Autophagy is rapidly induced in tubules and associates with renal tubular cells homeostasis to have a complex link with tubular death in AKI. Numb is a multifunctional protein and exerts protective role in tubular death in AKI induced by Cisplatin. However, the effect of Numb on tubular autophagy remains to be investigated. In the present study, the protein expression of LC3 and Beclin-1 related to autophagy was analyzed in Cisplatin-induced AKI mice with knocking down Numb. In model of tubular injury induced by Cisplatin in vitro, downregulation of Numb in NRK-52E cells also inhibited the activation of autophagy accompanied with the decreased protein level of p53. Overexpression of Numb in NRK-52E cells activated autophagy with increased LC3 and Beclin-1 expression accompanied with increased protein level of p53. Moreover, autophagy activation following Numb overexpression was suppressed by p53 inhibitor pifithrin-α. These data indicate that Numb promotes p53-mediated activation of tubular autophagy in AKI induced by Cisplatin and therefore may provide important targets for the treatment of AKI.
Daratumumab, Lenalidomide, and Dexamethasone (DRD), an Active Regimen in the Treatment of Immunosuppression-Associated Plasmablastic Lymphoma (PBL) in the Setting of Gorham’s Lymphangiomatosis: Review of the Literature
Authors: Lee Matthew , Martin Beth A. , Abdulhaq Haifaa
Published: June 2022

Characterized by an aggressive course with a poor overall survival due to treatment refractoriness, plasmablastic lymphoma (PBL) is a rare variant of diffuse large cell B cell lymphoma. Gorham’s lymphangiomatosis or Gorham–Stout disease (GSD) is a rare skeletal condition of unknown etiology characterized by progressive bone loss and nonmalignant proliferation of vascular and lymphatic channels within the affected bone. Neither disease has a standard of care. We present a 23-year-old HIV-negative woman with GSD, managed medically with octreotide and sirolimus, who developed PBL. After progressing on V-EPOCH (bortezomib, etoposide, vincristine, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, and prednisone), she was treated with daratumumab, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone (DRD) therapy and achieved complete remission after two cycles with progression after eight cycles. This is a report of treatment of PBL with DRD therapy. Clinical investigations of the DRD regimen in PBL in conjunction with other agents to improve both depth and durability of response are warranted.
Imaging Diagnosis of Primary Liver Cancer Using Magnetic Resonance Dilated Weighted Imaging and the Treatment Effect of Sorafenib
Authors: Fan Bin , Zhang Yunyi , Guo Shuai
Published: June 2022

Objective. This work explores the application value of dilated weighted imaging (DWI) in the diagnosis of primary liver cancer (PLC) and the effect of sorafenib in the treatment of PLC. Methods. 88 patients with PLC who were treated in The First Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University from March 2019 to March 2021 were selected and randomly rolled into an experimental group and a control group, with 44 cases in each group. Patients in both groups were treated with transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE), and the patients in the experimental group were treated with oral sorafenib on the basis of TACE. The indicators of complications, short-term efficacy (STE), and long-term efficacy (LTE) of the two groups were observed. All patients received DWI and magnetic resonance (MR) plain scan. The diagnostic accuracy and misdiagnosis rate of the two methods in diagnosing the PLC were compared. Results. The accuracy, specificity, and sensitivity of MR plain scan were 68%, 88%, and 89%, respectively, while those of DWI were 96%, 95%, and 94.2%, respectively. It indicated that the accuracy, specificity, and sensitivity of DWI in diagnosing lesions were better than those of MR plain scan, especially the diagnostic accuracy (

P
<
0.05

). The objective response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR) of the STE in the experimental group were 30% and 97%, respectively, and those in the control group were 6% and 54.5%, respectively. The experimental group’s mean progression-free survival (mPFS) and mean overall survival (mOS) were 12 and 25 months, respectively, while the control group’s were 8 and 19 months, respectively. It was concluded that the mPFS and mOS of patients receiving TACE combined with oral sorafenib were much higher than those receiving TACE only (

P
<
0.05

). Conclusion. DWI and TACE combined with sorafenib had high application value in the diagnosis and treatment of PLC.
A New Approach to Regional Traffic Estimation for Intelligent Transport Systems
Authors: Yu Minghe , Feng Jianhua , Zhang Tianmiao , Zhang Tiancheng
Published: June 2022

With the great development of urban transportation systems, immediate urban traffic information has become an essential resource for the public. Traffic estimation is to predict current or future traffic situation (traffic speed and/or volume) in a road or a region of a city, and can benefit our daily life from many aspects, such as routing planning and traffic management. Existing works focus on estimating future traffic for individual road segments from a perspective of fine-grained level. This paper presents a new approach to estimating future traffic from a perspective of coarse-grained level, by which we estimate the traffic situation of a region, instead of an individual road segment. We propose a new concept about regional traffic named Ω-region, which aims to reflect the traffic situation of a region precisely. Two challenges in the regional traffic estimation problem are how to partition the road network into reasonable regions and how to estimate the regional traffic effectively. To address these challenges, first we define reasonable regions Ω-regions with traffic situations so that the all the road segment in the region has similar traffic. Then, we propose a three-phase partition method to divide the road network into Ω-regions based on historical trajectory data. Thirdly, we propose an effective linear-based model to estimate regional traffic. Experimental results on real-world dataset show that our proposed method achieves high performance.
Self‐Medication Practices, Prevalence, and Associated Factors among Syrian Adult Patients: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Abdelwahed Rawan N. K. , Jassem Manaf , Alyousbashi Ayham
Published: June 2022

Objectives. Self‐medication (SM) means using drugs to treat self‐diagnosed diseases or symptoms. Despite its important role in reducing the load on medical services, it may bear many risks. This study aims to determine the prevalence of SM and its determinants among adult inpatients of Damascus Hospital, Syria. Study design. Cross‐sectional study. Methods. 453 adult inpatients were asked to complete a questionnaire through face‐to‐face interviews. Data were analysed using statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS). A chi‐square test was used to detect correlation between variables. Results. Out of 453 respondents, 67.3% practiced self‐medication. Most used drugs were analgesics, antipyretics, and antibiotics. The main indications for SM included headache, cough/flu, and body aches. Pharmacists were the main source of knowledge about the drugs used in SM. The leading reason for practicing SM was the mildness of the complaint. Approximately half of the participants declared they read leaflets of drugs they used in SM. In this study, SM was significantly associated with monthly income, age, and living place. Conclusions. The prevalence of SM in Damascus Hospital is high. Larger, nationwide studies are needed to identify the prevalence and determining factors of SM in Syria and to suggest the appropriate measures to control this phenomenon.
Design and Numerical Simulation of an Odometer Wheel Used in an Ultrasonic In-Line Inspection Tool
Authors: Cai Liangxue , Guan Liang , Qin Xu , Chen Lipeng , Xu Guangli
Published: June 2022

An odometer wheel is used to measure forward distance for a piezoelectric ultrasonic device, and it plays a key role in locating defections. Buckling and skidding are its main problems in applications. Based on a self-developed in-line inspection tool, an odometer wheel was designed according to mechanical design principles. A finite element model on scale of 1 : 1 was built to simulate mechanical performance of the odometer wheel. Results show that the maximum Mises stress under the worst condition is far less than the elastic limit of chosen stainless steel, and deformations of swing arms are slight. Acting forces under different conditions also meet requirements of antiskid. It indicates that the designed object has good performance in terms of structure stability and skid prevention.
Prediction Model of Bone Marrow Infiltration in Patients with Malignant Lymphoma Based on Logistic Regression and XGBoost Algorithm
Authors: Huang Yongfen , Chen Can , Miao Yuqing
Published: June 2022

Objective. The prediction model of bone marrow infiltration (BMI) in patients with malignant lymphoma (ML) was established based on the logistic regression and the XGBoost algorithm. The model’s prediction efficiency was evaluated. Methods. A total of 120 patients diagnosed with ML in the department of hematology from January 2018 to January 2021 were retrospectively selected. The training set (

n
=
84

) and test set (

n
=
36

) were randomly divided into 7 : 3, and logistic regression and XGBoost algorithm models were constructed using the training set data. Predictors of BMI were screened based on laboratory indicators, and the model’s efficacy was evaluated using test set data. Results. The prediction algorithm model’s top three essential characteristics are the blood platelet count, soluble interleukin-2 receptor, and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The area under the curve of the logistic regression model for predicting the BMI of patients with ML was 0.843 (95% CI: 0.761~0.926). The area under the curve of the XGBoost model is 0.844 (95% CI: 0.765~0.937). Conclusion. The prediction model constructed in this study based on logistic regression and XGBoost algorithm has a good prediction model. The results showed that blood platelet count and soluble interleukin-2 receptor were good predictors of BMI in ML patients.
Progressive Massive Choroidal Neovascularization, an Aggressive Phenotype: Case Report
Authors: García-Franco Renata , García-Roa Marlon , Cárdenas-Almagro Roberto , Valera-Cornejo Diego , Hernández-Da Mota Sergio E.
Published: June 2022

We report 2 cases of an aggressive choroidal neovascularization phenotype. A 77-year-old hypertensive woman, with a 4-year history of visual loss in her left eye, due to vitreous hemorrhage associated with a dome-shaped mass lesion underwent pars plana vitrectomy. An extensive subretinal hemorrhage was found, associated with extensive subretinal fibrosis, which was treated with endophotocoagulation and intravitreal injection of anti-VEGF. Best-corrected visual acuity after surgery was light perception. A 74-year-old woman with a 4-year history of treatment for choroidal neovascularization in both eyes presented with an extensive subretinal hemorrhage associated with exudation in the temporal peripheral retina. Lesions became larger despite monthly intravitreal anti-VEGF injections (14 injections) and verteporfin photodynamic therapy in both eyes. Throughout the years, the choroidal neovascular lesion continued to enlarge until it developed a severe vitreous hemorrhage. The patient rejected treatment and ended up with no light perception at the end of the follow-up (8 years). A rare severe choroidal neovascularization phenotype is presented here and would be considered to be at the aggressive extreme of the spectrum of a neovascular age-related macular degeneration or polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy that presents massive hemorrhage and exudation as much as in the posterior pole as in the peripheral retina.
Endoscopic Vacuum Therapy for Iatrogenic Rectal Perforation
Authors: Zumblick Malte , Stathopoulos Petros , Gress Thomas Mathias , Denzer Ulrike Walburga
Published: June 2022

Serious iatrogenic bowel injuries during screening colonoscopy are rare events. If a perforation is detected during colonoscopy, endoscopic therapy can be attempted depending on the size and type as well as local endoscopic experience. We report the case of a 54-year-old female patient who was treated by endoscopic vacuum therapy (EVT) for a rectal perforation she had suffered during an outpatient screening colonoscopy. Two hours after the complication, an emergency endoscopy was performed. A perforation of the lower third of the rectum with a longitudinal diameter of 4 cm and a depth of 2.5 cm was detected. Due to the deep defect and the suspected increased risk of abscess formation after mechanical perforation closure with endoclips, we decided to perform EVT. The therapy was performed over a total period of 7 days. The patient was symptom free at all times. On the 2nd and 5th day, the endoscopic findings were re-evaluated and the inserted endosponges were changed. The sponge was adjusted to the wound conditions at each check and its length was gradually shortened. The endoscopic findings improved steadily. The EVT was completed after 7 days with the result of complete wound closure. The inflammatory parameters dropped continuously from day 1. On day 8, the patient could be discharged from inpatient treatment. No complications occurred in the post-inpatient course. This case is an example of successful EVT after iatrogenic rectal perforation. EVT should be considered for iatrogenic rectal perforation when signs of systemic inflammation are present and primary mechanical wound closure appears critical due to the depth of the defect and the presumed risk of abscess formation.
Diagnostic Value of sST2, VCAM-1, and Adiponectin in Patients with Breast Cancer to Predict Anti-Tumour Treatment-Related Cardiac Events: A Pilot Study
Authors: Rosenkaimer Stephanie Luise , Winter Laura , Sieburg Tina , Maier Sandra , Mavratzas Athanasios , Hofmann Wolf-Karsten , Akin Ibrahim , Duerschmied Daniel , Hofheinz Ralf-Dieter , Hohneck Anna
Published: June 2022

Aim: The present exploratory study investigated the diagnostic value of inflammatory markers in patients with breast cancer to predict anti-tumour treatment-related cardiac events. Methods: Twenty-one patients with breast cancer were enrolled in this prospective observational study and followed over 6 months. Transthoracic echocardiography and measurement of cardiac (N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), troponin I (TnI)) and inflammatory biomarkers (vascular adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1), soluble suppression of tumorigenesis-2 (sST2), adiponectin) was performed at 3-month intervals (baseline, follow-up, final visit). Cardiac events were defined as decrease in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF, decrease by 10% or <50%) or increase in global longitudinal strain (GLS, increase by 15% or > −16%), as a more sensitive marker of LV function. Results: Cardiac deterioration was observed in 9 out of 21 patients (event group). While LVEF did not differ significantly between the two groups (event vs. no event) at any visit, GLS was significantly higher during follow-up (follow-up: event −16 ± 3.3% vs. no event −18 ± 1.6%, p = 0.04; final visit: event −16 ± 2.1% vs. no event −19 ± 1.9%, p = 0.003). NT-proBNP was numerically higher in patients with a cardiac event during all visits, with NT-proBNP negatively correlated with LVEF and MAPSE (both r = −0.33, p = 0.02), whereas GLS (r = 0.40, p = 0.006), TnI (r = 0.44, p = 0.001), and VCAM-1 (r = 0.48, p = 0.003) showed a positive association with NT-proBNP. In comparison, higher VCAM-1 and sST2 concentrations were detected in the event group at both baseline and the final visit, with a significant difference for baseline (VCAM-1: p = 0.02; sST2: p = 0.03). Adiponectin was also lower in patients with a treatment-related event. Thresholds for VCAM-1 >762 ng/mL and sST2 >18.7 ng/mL, as detected by ROC analysis, correlated best with the primary endpoint. Conclusion: Cardiac events during anti-tumour treatment in patients with breast cancer are relatively common. Inflammatory markers such as VCAM-1 or sST2 were associated with an increased likelihood for occurrence of a treatment-related event, which may therefore hold the promise to better identify patients at high risk.
Common Variants in Neuraminidase Genes Contribute to Predisposition to and Progression of Chronic Heart Failure
Authors: Li Shiyang , Wang Yuehong , Zeng Xiaobing , Zhang Yanyu , Wang Shihai , Liu Yuyong , Xu Dawen , Lan Jianjun , Hu Dong
Published: June 2022

Introduction: The role of neuraminidases in cardiovascular disease has recently gained increasing attention. However, the association between neuraminidase gene polymorphisms and heart failure (HF) has not yet been investigated. Methods and Results: Genotyping of nine single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the NEU2/NEU3/NEU4 genes was performed in 610 HF patients and 600 healthy controls from the Southwest Han Chinese population using TaqMan SNP Genotyping Assay. Individuals carrying the A allele of rs11545301 had decreased risk of HF (additive model: OR = 0.704, 95% CI = 0.511–0.97; p = 0.032). However, the C allele of rs2293763 increased the risk of HF in the recessive model (OR = 1.486, 95% CI = 1.095–2.012; p = 0.011). Rs2233384, rs2233394, and rs2293763 were significantly associated with the mortality risk of HF in the dominant model, both with and without adjustment for conventional risk factors (HR = 0.686, 95% CI = 0.52–0.906, p = 0.008 for rs2233384, HR = 1.357, 95% CI = 1.035–1.78, p = 0.027 for rs2233384, and HR = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.592–0.975, p = 0.031 for rs2293763). Conclusion: Our findings demonstrated the association between a series of variants in NEU2/NEU4 genes and the risk or prognosis of HF in the Han Chinese population. These data suggested an important role of NEU2 and NEU4 in the pathogenesis of HF.
Time Course of Irreversible Electroporation Lesion Development Through Short- and Long-Term Follow-Up in Pulsed-Field Ablation–Treated Hearts
Authors: Grimaldi Massimo , Di Monaco Antonio , Gomez Tara , Berman Dror , Datta Keshava , Sharma Tushar , Govari Assaf , Altmann Andres , Di Biase Luigi
Published: June 2022

Background:

Pulsed-field ablation (PFA) is a tissue-selective, nonthermal cardiac ablation modality. A novel PFA ablation system consisted of a multichannel irreversible electroporation generator system and a multielectrode circular irreversible electroporation catheter has been developed for catheter ablation. To understand the progression and immediate impacts of PFA, this study evaluated the subchronic (7±3 day) and chronic (30±3 day) safety and performance of the novel PFA system when simulating pulmonary vein and superior vena cava isolation in a porcine beating heart model.

Methods:

Ten swine models were divided into subchronic (n=6) and chronic cohorts (n=4). Lesions were performed within the right and left atrium to conduct right pulmonary veins and superior vena cava isolations, in addition to creating stacked lesions in the left atrium roof and right atrium posterior wall.

Results:

Acute pulmonary vein and superior vena cava isolation were achieved in 10 out of 10 swine and demonstrated 100% lesion durability in both cohorts, including sustained elimination of electrical activity at the left atrium roof and right atrium posterior wall. Histology demonstrated that all the cardiac sites ablated showed discrete zones of loss of myocardial fibers or smooth muscle cells with preservation of the tissue architecture with resultant fibrocellular replacement, neovascularization, and neocollagen deposition. Mineralization findings were present in association with residual necrotic muscle fibers. Only in 7 days group, areas of mineralization were frequently associated with inflammation. There were no treatment-related changes in other tissues, including complete sparing of the phrenic nerve.

Conclusions:

Pulsed-field ablation for pulmonary vein and superior vena cava isolation with the novel PFA system was feasible, safe with myocardial-specific ablative effect. Durable lesions were observed at the target areas. with inflammation phenomena mainly documented at 7 days.
Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices in Ebstein Anomaly: Management and Outcomes
Authors: Tan Nicholas Y. , Amin Mustapha , Dearani Joseph A. , McLeod Christopher J. , Stephens Elizabeth H. , Cannon Bryan C. , Miranda William R. , Connolly Heidi M. , Egbe Alexander , Asirvatham Samuel J. , Madhavan Malini
Published: June 2022

Background:

Optimal management of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) in patients with Ebstein anomaly during tricuspid valve (TV) surgery is unknown. Thus, we aimed to characterize CIED management/outcomes in patients with Ebstein anomaly undergoing TV surgery.

Methods:

Patients at the Mayo Clinic from 1987 to 2020 with Ebstein anomaly and CIED procedure were reviewed for procedural details, complications, echocardiogram, and lead parameters. Five-year cumulative incidence of CIED complications were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method.

Results:

Ninety-three patients were included; 51 were female, and mean age was 40.7±17.5 years. A new CIED was implanted in 45 patients at the time of TV surgery with the majority receiving an epicardial (n=37) CIED. Among 34 patients who had preexisting CIED (11 epicardial, 23 transvenous) at time of TV surgery, 20 had a transvenous right ventricular lead managed by externalizing the lead to the TV (n=15) or extracting the transvenous lead with epicardial lead implantation (n=5). Fourteen patients underwent CIED implantation (4 epicardial, 10 transvenous) without concurrent surgery. Placement of lead across the TV was avoided in 85% of patients. The 5-year cumulative incidence of CIED complications was 24% with no significant difference between epicardial and transvenous CIEDs (26% versus 23%,
P
=0.96). Performance of lead parameters was similar in epicardial and transvenous leads during median (interquartile range) follow-up of 44.5 (61.1) months.

Conclusions:

In patients with Ebstein anomaly undergoing TV surgery, the use of epicardial leads and externalization of transvenous leads to the TV can avoid lead placement across the valve leaflets. Lead performance and CIED complications was similar between epicardial and transvenous CIEDs.
Conflict Mediation and Bungoma Activism in a South African Township
Authors: Bae Bosco B.
Published: June 2022

The following article draws on fieldwork with traditional African healers in an urban South African township and examines mediation sessions undertaken by a group of healers with a view to contemporary conflicts that emerged during their praxis. I argue that the healers’ mediation practices are a form of activism that addresses the hermeneutical and institutional gap between traditional healing and the magistrates’ court system. This activism further presents a social positioning by healers for greater legitimacy, recognition, and integration with governmental structures. The article introduces the township of Alexandra and two different conflict resolution pathways that exist there, which reflect two divergent judicial moralities of reproduction with their respective cultural frameworks. The article then provides an overview of the institution of traditional healing and, lastly, describes the healers’ mediation as a form of activism.