bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
[Retracted] Posture Recognition and Behavior Tracking in Swimming Motion Images under Computer Machine Vision
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Huang Cong , Zhong Fei , Qi Bote , Gao Binghong
Published: May 2021

This study is to explore the gesture recognition and behavior tracking in swimming motion images under computer machine vision and to expand the application of moving target detection and tracking algorithms based on computer machine vision in this field. The objectives are realized by moving target detection and tracking, Gaussian mixture model, optimized correlation filtering algorithm, and Camshift tracking algorithm. Firstly, the Gaussian algorithm is introduced into target tracking and detection to reduce the filtering loss and make the acquired motion posture more accurate. Secondly, an improved kernel‐related filter tracking algorithm is proposed by training multiple filters, which can clearly and accurately obtain the motion trajectory of the monitored target object. Finally, it is proposed to combine the Kalman algorithm with the Camshift algorithm for optimization, which can complete the tracking and recognition of moving targets. The experimental results show that the target tracking and detection method can obtain the movement form of the template object relatively completely, and the kernel‐related filter tracking algorithm can also obtain the movement speed of the target object finely. In addition, the accuracy of Camshift tracking algorithm can reach 86.02%. Results of this study can provide reliable data support and reference for expanding the application of moving target detection and tracking methods.
On the Computation of Some Topological Descriptors to Find Closed Formulas for Certain Chemical Graphs
Authors: Aftab Muhammad Haroon , Rafaqat Muhammad , Hussain M. , Zia Tariq
Published: May 2021

In this research paper, we will compute the topological indices (degree based) such as the ordinary generalized geometric-arithmetic (OGA) index, first and second Gourava indices, first and second hyper-Gourava indices, general Randic´ index

R

γ

G

,
for 
γ
=

±
1
,
±

1
/
2

, harmonic index, general version of the harmonic index, atom-bond connectivity (ABC) index, SK, SK1, and SK2 indices, sum-connectivity index, general sum-connectivity index, and first general Zagreb and forgotten topological indices for various types of chemical networks such as the subdivided polythiophene network, subdivided hexagonal network, subdivided backbone DNA network, and subdivided honeycomb network. The discussion on the aforementioned networks will give us very remarkable results by using the aforementioned topological indices.
Information Entropy Based on Propagation Feature of Node for Identifying the Influential Nodes
Authors: Zhong Linfeng , Bai Yu , Tian Yan , Luo Chen , Huang Jin , Pan Weijun
Published: May 2021

For understanding and controlling spreading in complex networks, identifying the most influential nodes, which can be applied to disease control, viral marketing, air traffic control, and many other fields, is of great importance. By taking the effect of the spreading rate on information entropy into account, we proposed an improved information entropy (IIE) method. Compared to the benchmark methods in the six different empirical networks, the IIE method has been found with a better performance on Kendall’s Tau and imprecision function under the Susceptible Infected Recovered (SIR) model. Especially in the Facebook network, Kendall’s Tau can grow by 120% as compared with the original IE method. And, there is also an equally good performance in the comparative analysis of imprecise functions. The imprecise functions’ value of the IIE method is smaller than the benchmark methods in six networks.
Silver and Gold Nanoparticles from Limnophila rugosa Leaves: Biosynthesis, Characterization, and Catalytic Activity in Reduction of Nitrophenols
Authors: Le Van Thuan , Ngu Ngoc Nhu Quynh , Chau Tan Phat , Nguyen Thi Dung , Nguyen Van Toan , Nguyen Thi Lan Huong , Cao Xuan Thang , Doan Van-Dat
Published: May 2021

This study describes a simple green method for the synthesis of Limnophila rugosa leaf-extract-capped silver and gold nanoparticles without using any expensive toxic reductant or stabilizer. The noble metal nanoparticles were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) microscopy, powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), selected area electron diffraction (SAED), and dynamic light scattering (DLS) method. It has been found that the biosynthesized silver and gold nanoparticles are nearly spherical in shape with a mean particle size distribution of 87.5 nm and 122.8 nm, respectively. XRD and SAED patterns confirmed the crystalline nanostructure of the metal nanoparticles. FTIR spectra revealed the functional groups of biomolecules presented in the extract possibly responsible for reducing metallic ions and stabilizing formed nanoparticles. The biosynthesized metal nanoparticles have potential application in catalysis. Compared to previous reports, Limnophila rugosa leaf-extract-capped silver and gold nanoparticles exhibited a good catalytic activity in the reduction of several derivatives of nitrophenols including 1,4-dinitrobenzene, 2-nitrophenol, 3-nitrophenol, and 4-nitrophenol.
Frailty in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Cirrhosis: A Comparison with Alcoholic Cirrhosis, Risk Patterns, and Impact on Prognosis
Authors: Skladany Lubomir , Molcan Pavol , Vnencakova Jana , Vrbova Petra , Kukla Michal , Laffers Lukas , Koller Tomas
Published: May 2021

Background. Physical frailty increases susceptibility to stressors and predicts adverse outcomes of cirrhosis. Data on disease course in different etiologies are scarce, so we aimed to compare the prevalence and risk factors of frailty and its impact on prognosis in nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFLD) and alcoholic (ALD) cirrhosis. Patients and Methods. Cirrhosis registry RH7 operates since 2014 and includes hospitalized patients with decompensated cirrhosis, pre-LT evaluation, or curable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). From the RH7, we identified 280 ALD and 105 NAFLD patients with at least 6 months of follow-up. Results. Patients with NAFLD compared with ALD were older and had a higher proportion of females, higher body mass index (BMI) and mid-arm circumference (MAC), lower MELD score, CRP, and lower proportion of refractory ascites. The liver frailty index did not differ, and the prevalence of HCC was higher (17.1 vs. 6.8%,

p
=
0.002

). Age, sex, serum albumin, and C-reactive protein (CRP) were independent predictors of frailty. In NAFLD, frailty was also associated with BMI and MAC and in ALD, with the MELD score. The Cox model adjusted for age, sex, MELD, CRP, HCC, and LFI showed that NAFLD patients had higher all-cause mortality (HR = 1.88 95% CI 1.32–2.67,

p
<
0.001

) and were more sensitive to the increase in LFI (HR = 1.51, 95% CI 1.05–2.2). Conclusion. Patients with NAFLD cirrhosis had a comparable prevalence of frailty compared to ALD. Although prognostic indices showed less advanced disease, NAFLD patients were more sensitive to frailty, which reflected their higher overall disease burden and led to higher all-cause mortality.
Pharmacological Mechanisms Underlying the Therapeutic Effects of Danhong Injection on Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Qi Yifei , Zou Yihuai , Chen Lin , Liu Jun , Zhang Yingying , Wang Zhong
Published: May 2021

Background. Although Danhong injection (DHI) has been proved to be curative, the mechanism of its action against ischemia stroke (IS) is not clear. Here, we explored the therapeutic basis of DHI by network pharmacology. Methods. Putative targets and activity scores for each compound in DHI were obtained from the Traditional Chinese Medicine System Pharmacology Database, Encyclopedia of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Quantitative Structure Activity Relationships. Next, target proteins of IS were identified on GeneCards and CTD. Overlapping targets of DHI associated with IS were acquired via Venn diagram. GO and KEGG pathway analyses were done using WebGestalt. Cytoscape software was used for PPI network construction and hub nodes screening. Several validation studies were carried out by using AutoDock-Vina, label-free mass spectrometry, and transcriptome RNA-sequencing. Results. The 37 active compounds and 66 targets were identified. Of these, 26 compounds and 41 targets belonged to diterpenoid quinones (DQs), which is the predominant category based on chemical structure. The results of enrichments analysis show that 8 DQs target proteins associated with IS were involved in several biological processes and signaling pathway such as apoptotic, cell cycle, cellular response to xenobiotic stimulus process, and the PI3K-Akt signaling. Moreover, 3 nodes in core module involved in PI3K-Akt signaling and 1 hub node were identified by PPI network analysis. Finally, the results of molecular docking and label-free mass spectrometry display good effect on hub node regulation in DHI treatment. Conclusions. DQs is the predominant category of DHI and play an important role in antiapoptotic activity mediated by modulating PI3K-Akt signaling. Our findings offer insight into future research and clinical applications in IS therapy.
[Retracted] Music Rhythm Detection Algorithm Based on Multipath Search and Cluster Analysis
Authors: Ma Shuqing
Published: May 2021

Music rhythm detection and tracking is an important part of the music comprehension system and visualization system. The music signal is subjected to a short‐time Fourier transform to obtain the frequency spectrum. According to the perception characteristics of the human auditory system, the spectrum amplitude is logarithmically processed, and the endpoint intensity curve and the phase information of the peak value are output through half‐wave rectification. The Pulse Code Modulation (PCM) characteristic value is extracted according to the autocorrelation characteristic of the endpoint intensity curve. This article proposes a rhythm detection algorithm based on multipath search and cluster analysis; that is, based on the clustering algorithm, it absorbs the idea of multipath tracking and proposes its own detection and tracking algorithm. It overcomes the weakness of the clustering algorithm that needs to use Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) auxiliary input to achieve the desired effect. This algorithm completely uses the PCM signal as the input, which is more robust than the clustering algorithm. The whole process is carried out in the time domain, and the amount of calculation is much smaller than the frequency domain calculation of multipath tracking, and the linear relationship with the rhythm of the music is much better than the filter bank algorithm. This algorithm can successfully detect the rhythm of the music with a strong sense of rhythm and can track the specific position of the rhythm point.
Investigating the Existence of Ribosomal Protein L5 Gene in Syrian Strain of Leishmania tropica Genome: Sequencing It and Evaluating Its Immune Response as DNA Vaccine
Authors: Maarouf Mohammad , Abdlwahab Alyaa A.
Published: May 2021

Cutaneous leishmaniasis in Syria is caused mainly by Leishmania tropica. It represents a serious health problem, which has aggravated further after the civil war in the country. Until now, there are no effective protective strategies, safe therapy, or efficacious vaccine to protect from this infection. DNA vaccines represent a promising approach for achieving protection against leishmaniasis. The L5 ribosomal protein plays fundamental roles in the assembly process of the ribosome subunits, so this study has chosen the ribosomal protein L5 gene to design a DNA vaccine against Leishmania tropica infection. After proving the existence of the ribosomal protein L5 gene in a Syrian strain of Leishmania tropica (LCED Syrian 01), it was sequenced and cloned into a pCI plasmid, and the designed DNA vaccine was administered to BALB/c mice. The protective response was evaluated by measuring lesion development in immunized BALB/c mice for 6 weeks after challenging mice with the parasite. RT-qPCR was used to quantify IL-12, IFN-γ, and IL-4 in draining lymph nodes (DLNs) of immunized mice. In the final week, the parasite burden was determined in footpad lesions and local draining lymph nodes (DLNs). This study demonstrated the presence and expression of the ribosomal protein L5 gene in the Syrian strain of Leishmania tropica promastigotes. The sequence of the ribosomal protein cDNA L5 gene was determined and published in Genbank. The gene size was 918 bp. Expression was also demonstrated at the level of cDNA. This study also demonstrated that vaccination with the ribosomal protein L5 gene induces TH1 response in immunized mice. This response prevents the partial development of a skin lesion of Leishmania.
Hydroxysafflor Yellow A Ameliorates Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury by Suppressing Calcium Overload and Apoptosis
Authors: Ye Jingxue , Wang Ruiying , Wang Min , Fu Jianhua , Zhang Qiong , Sun Guibo , Sun Xiaobo
Published: May 2021

Myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (MI/RI) is an urgent problem with a great impact on health globally. However, its pathological mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. Hydroxysafflor yellow A (HSYA) has a protective effect against MI/RI. This study is aimed at further clarifying the relationship between HSYA cardioprotection and calcium overload as well as the underlying mechanisms. We verified the protective effect of HSYA on neonatal rat primary cardiomyocytes (NPCMs) and human‐induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC‐CMs) from hypoxia‐reoxygenation (HR) injury. To explore the cardioprotective mechanism of HSYA, we employed calcium fluorescence, TUNEL assay, JC‐1 staining, and western blotting. Finally, cardio‐ECR and patch‐clamp experiments were used to explain the regulation of L‐type calcium channels (LTCC) in cardioprotection mediated by HSYA. The results showed that HSYA reduced the levels of myocardial enzymes and protected NPCMs from HR injury. HSYA also restored the contractile function of hiPSC‐CMs and field potential signal abnormalities caused by HR and exerted a protective effect on cardiac function. Further, we demonstrated that HSYA protects cardiomyocytes from HR injury by decreasing mitochondrial membrane potential and inhibiting apoptosis and calcium overload. Patch‐clamp results revealed that MI/RI caused a sharp increase in calcium currents, which was inhibited by pretreatment with HSYA. Furthermore, we found that HSYA restored contraction amplitude, beat rate, and field potential duration of hiPSC‐CMs, which were disrupted by the LTCC agonist Bay‐K8644. Patch‐clamp experiments also showed that HSYA inhibits Bay‐K8644‐induced calcium current, with an effect similar to that of the LTCC inhibitor nisoldipine. Therefore, our data suggest that HSYA targets LTCC to inhibit calcium overload and apoptosis of cardiomyocytes, thereby exerting a cardioprotective effect and reducing MI/RI injury.
Virtual Screening of Phytochemicals by Targeting HR1 Domain of SARS‐CoV‐2 S Protein: Molecular Docking, Molecular Dynamics Simulations, and DFT Studies
Authors: Majeed Arshia , Hussain Waqar , Yasmin Farkhanda , Akhtar Ammara , Rasool Nouman
Published: May 2021

The recent COVID‐19 pandemic has impacted nearly the whole world due to its high morbidity and mortality rate. Thus, scientists around the globe are working to find potent drugs and designing an effective vaccine against COVID‐19. Phytochemicals from medicinal plants are known to have a long history for the treatment of various pathogens and infections; thus, keeping this in mind, this study was performed to explore the potential of different phytochemicals as candidate inhibitors of the HR1 domain in SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein by using computer‐aided drug discovery methods. Initially, the pharmacological assessment was performed to study the drug‐likeness properties of the phytochemicals for their safe human administration. Suitable compounds were subjected to molecular docking to screen strongly binding phytochemicals with HR1 while the stability of ligand binding was analyzed using molecular dynamics simulations. Quantum computation‐based density functional theory (DFT) analysis was constituted to analyze the reactivity of these compounds with the receptor. Through analysis, 108 phytochemicals passed the pharmacological assessment and upon docking of these 108 phytochemicals, 36 were screened passing a threshold of ‐8.5 kcal/mol. After analyzing stability and reactivity, 5 phytochemicals, i.e., SilybinC, Isopomiferin, Lycopene, SilydianinB, and Silydianin are identified as novel and potent candidates for the inhibition of HR1 domain in SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein. Based on these results, it is concluded that these compounds can play an important role in the design and development of a drug against COVID‐19, after an exhaustive in vitro and in vivo examination of these compounds, in future.
Preoperative Nutrition Support May Reduce the Prevalence of Postoperative Pancreatic Fistula after Open Pancreaticoduodenectomy in Patients with High Nutritional Risk Determined by NRS2002
Authors: Xu Jing-Yong , Tian Xiao-Dong , Song Jing-Hai , Chen Jian , Yang Yin-Mo , Wei Jun-Min
Published: May 2021

Background. Clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR‐POPF) is a severe complication which may be caused by a perioperative nutrition problem. We aimed to study whether patients with high nutritional risk (NRS2002 score ≥ 5) might benefit from preoperative nutrition support regarding the risk of CR‐POPF after open pancreaticoduodenectomy. Methods. Consecutive patients undergoing open pancreaticoduodenectomy with complete record of NRS2002 at two Chinese institutions between 2013 and 2018 were analysed. CR‐POPF was diagnosed following the 2016 ISGPS criteria. Nutrition support included oral nutrition supplement and enteral and parenteral nutrition. Clinical and economic outcomes were analysed. Results. 522 cases were included. 135 cases (25.9%) were at high nutritional risk (NRS2002 score ≥ 5), among which 41 cases (30.4%) received preoperative nutrition support. The CR‐POPF rate was significantly lower in the preoperative nutrition support group compared with the no nutrition support group (12.2% versus 28.7%, P = 0.038). Multivariate analysis showed that preoperative nutrition support was a protective factor for CR‐POPF in patients at high risk [OR 0.339, 95% CI (0.115‐0.965), P = 0.039]. Higher albumin and a larger diameter of the main pancreatic duct were found to be other protectors for CR‐POPF. Conclusions. Patients with high nutritional risk (NRS2002 score ≥ 5) may profit from preoperative nutritional support manifested in the reduction of CR‐POPF.
The Role of Dectin-1-Mediated M1 Macrophage Polarization in Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Zongyun Chen , Bixia Lin , Fadian Ding , Xiaoping Hong , Hongbin Chen , Yu Deng , Qicai Liu , Xiaoyi Ye , Kai Zeng
Published: May 2021

Introduction. The advances in cerebral ischemia treatment have resulted in a larger proportion of patients get the benefits of rebuilding blood flow to the brain. Then, ischemia-reperfusion injury has emerged as a new essential problem. Dectin-1 plays an important role in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury by regulating the function of immune cells. Methods. C57BL/6 was blindly divided into four groups including the sham-operated group and the three different kinds of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) groups (after 6 hours, 12 hours, and 24 hours after plug removal). The protein expression levels of dectin-1, proapoptosis molecule, and antiapoptosis molecule were measured by using western blot analysis. The brain tissue was analyzed by flow cytometry to detect the M1 macrophage levels. Results. The correlation analysis of dectin-1 and infarct areas showed that there was an obviously positive correlation in between them (R = 0.9603). Dectin-1, cleaved caspase-3, and Bax increased, while antiapoptosis molecule, Bcl-2, decreased at three appropriate time points (after 6 hours, 12 hours, and 24 hours). The level of M1 macrophages in the experimental group increased after ischemia-reperfusion injury compared to the control group. Conclusions. The high expression level of dectin-1 may affect M1 macrophage polarization and brain cell apoptosis in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.
A Hybrid Method for Complex Pythagorean Fuzzy Decision Making
Authors: Akram Muhammad , Alsulami Samirah , Zahid Kiran
Published: May 2021

This article takes advantage of advancements in two different fields in order to produce a novel decision-making framework. First, we contribute to the theory of aggregation operators, which are mappings that combine large amounts of data into more advantageous forms. They are extensively used in different settings from classical to fuzzy set theory alike. Secondly, we expand the literature on complex Pythagorean fuzzy model, which has an edge over other models due to its ability to handle uncertain data of periodic nature. We propose some aggregation operators for complex Pythagorean fuzzy numbers that depend on the Hamacher t-norm and t-conorm, namely, the complex Pythagorean fuzzy Hamacher weighted average operator, the complex Pythagorean fuzzy Hamacher ordered weighted average operator, and the complex Pythagorean fuzzy Hamacher hybrid average operator. We explore some properties of these operators inclusive of idempotency, monotonicity, and boundedness. Then, the operators are applied to multicriteria decision-making problems under the complex Pythagorean fuzzy environment. Furthermore, we present an algorithm along with a flow chart, and we demonstrate their applicability with the assistance of two numerical examples (selection of most favorable country for immigrants and selection of the best programming language). We investigate the adequacy of this algorithm by conducting a comparative study with the case of complex intuitionistic fuzzy aggregation operators.
Fuzzy Triple Controlled Metric Spaces and Related Fixed Point Results
Authors: Furqan Salman , Işık Hüseyin , Saleem Naeem
Published: May 2021

In this study, we introduce fuzzy triple controlled metric space that generalizes certain fuzzy metric spaces, like fuzzy rectangular metric space, fuzzy rectangular

b

-metric space, fuzzy

b

-metric space, and extended fuzzy

b

-metric space. We use

f
,
g
,
h
,

three noncomparable functions as follows:

m

q

μ
,
η
,
t
+
s
+
w

≥

m

q

μ
,
ν
,
t
/
f

μ
,
ν

∗

m

q

ν
,
ξ
,
s
/
g

ν
,
ξ

∗

m

q

ξ
,
η
,
w
/
h

ξ
,
η

. We prove Banach fixed point theorem in the settings of fuzzy triple controlled metric space that generalizes Banach fixed point theorem for aforementioned spaces. An example is presented to support our main results. We also apply our technique to the uniqueness for the solution of an integral equation.
Impact of Logistics Development on Economic Growth: An Empirical Research from Guangdong Province in China
Authors: Li Xiaofei , Chen Fen
Published: May 2021

This paper evaluates the impact of the development of the logistics industry on economic growth based on panel data of 21 cities in Guangdong Province in China from 2007 to 2019. Using the overall entropy method, the comprehensive development index of the logistics industry is constructed to capture the performance of the logistics industry. On this basis, by using Moran’s index, we measure the spatial agglomeration effect of the logistics industry. Furthermore, direct and spatial spillover effects are also obtained. The estimation results of the spatial Durbin model (SDM) reveal that the elasticity coefficient of the effect of the comprehensive development level of the logistics industry on economic growth is 0.2590, which is significant at the 1% level. In addition, the coefficient of the direct effect of the logistics industry on local economic growth is 0.4074, and the coefficient of the spatial spillover effect on the economic growth of the surrounding areas is 0.3596, which are both significant at the 1% level. These results indicate that the development of the logistics industry can not only improve local economic growth but also promote the economic growth of the surrounding regions.
Preparation of Room Temperature Vulcanized Silicone Rubber Foam with Excellent Flame Retardancy
Authors: Luo Weiqi , Li Zhimin , Luo Haihua , Liu Yuting , Xia Guojiang , Zhu Hangtian , Zhou Jiayi , Yu Ding , Zhang Jianxin , Song Jianghang , Duan Zhengzhou , Qiao Yanxin , Tang Jijun , Wang Yuxin , Meng Chunfeng
Published: May 2021

To retard the spread of fire in many cases with sealing materials is significant. A series of silicone rubber foam materials were prepared with room temperature vulcanization and foaming reactions. The morphology, chemical structure, cell structure, and thermal stability were investigated and results proved that the synthesis of silicone rubber was successful in a wide range of feed ratios. The fire-retardant tests were carried out to study the fire-proof property of the composite materials, and the excellent performance showed a promising prospect for wide application in sealing materials.
Development of an Assessment Tool of Menstrual-Cycle-Related Signs and Symptoms Based on Thai Traditional Medicine Principles for Evaluation of Women’s Health
Authors: Sutthibut Kodchanipha , Itharat Arunporn , Singchungchai Phechnoy , Wanichsetakul Preecha , Pipatrattanaseree Weerachai , Ooraikul Buncha , Davies Neal M.
Published: May 2021

Background. Utilization of Thai traditional medicine (TTM) was considered in menstrual-cycle-related signs and symptoms (MCSs) to evaluate women’s health. TTM clinicians diagnosed the MCSs by signs, symptoms, and associated factors of patients including a physical examination to find patterns of imbalance elements and the origin of the disorder to optimize treatment. Thus, the purpose of this study was to develop a new assessment tool, the menstrual-cycle-related signs and symptoms questionnaire (MCSQ) based on TTM principles for evaluation of women’s menstrual health. Methods. The items and components of the MCSQ were adjusted by TTM expert consensus using the Delphi technique. The content validity of the MCSQ was quantified by the content validity index (CVI). MCSQ were examined by construct validity and internal consistency reliability using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and Cronbach’s α coefficient, respectively. Results: All 19 experts (100%) responded to the questionnaires in the three rounds of the Delphi technique. The MCSQ showed high content validity of individual items (I-CVI = 0.83–1.00) and high overall content validity of the questionnaire (S-CVI/AVE = 0.98). Overall, 429 of 432 participants completed the questionnaire (99.31%). After factor analysis, the final MCSQ was divided into two sections, which consisted of 49 items. The first had 23 items focusing on the MCSs. And, the second had 14 items of personal and medical data including 12 items of associated factors. Cronbach’s α coefficient of the final MCSQ was 0.87, and that of each component was between 0.32 and 0.82. Conclusions. This study reports a new MCS questionnaire tool, which was developed from TTM knowledge to evaluate women’s health. This questionnaire showed an acceptable level of validity and reliability. Thus, it is also expected to be useful in clinical practice and ongoing research on evaluation of women’s health.
Anti-N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Encephalitis Associated with Ovarian Teratoma in South China-Clinical Features, Treatment, Immunopathology, and Surgical Outcomes of 21 Cases
Authors: Jiang Huiyun , Ye Huixia , Wang Yifeng , Li Yunhui , Wang Ying , Li Xiaomao
Published: May 2021

Objective. To study the clinical characteristics and surgical outcomes of anti-NMDAR encephalitis and the immunopathology of associated teratomas. Methods. Twenty-one patients were enrolled in this retrospective study, who were diagnosed with anti-NMDAR encephalitis with ovarian teratoma and admitted to two tertiary hospitals in South China from July 2014 to December 2019. The clinical data of patients were reviewed. Comparisons were made between the patients with different outcomes after surgery. Immunohistochemical analyses of associated ovarian teratomas were performed. Results. The mean age of the patients was

24.33
±
5.12

years. The peak seasons of disease onset were autumn and winter (30.61% and 32.65%). The symptoms could be divided into 8 categories, including psychiatric abnormalities, seizures, movement dysfunction, consciousness disorders, autonomic dysregulation, speech disturbance, central hypoventilation, and memory deficits. All patients developed four or more categories of symptoms within the first four weeks. Twelve patients (57.1%) had a maximum mRS of 5, and 11 patients (52.4%) were admitted to ICU. Twenty patients received surgery, and only 3 patients were diagnosed pathologically with immature ovarian teratomas, while the other 17 patients had mature ovarian teratomas. After surgery, 17 patients (85.0%) got clinical improvement. The central hypoventilation symptom and mature ovarian teratomas were associated with surgical outcome. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that there were NMDAR-positive neural tissues in all 8 teratomas and in which 3 cases also contained large numbers of NMDAR-positive sebaceous glands and squamous epithelial tissues. Conclusion. The disease is of high prevalence in autumn and winter. The central hypoventilation symptom and mature ovarian teratomas were associated with surgical outcome. NMDAR-positive neural tissue is not the only etiological factor of encephalitis. We speculate that encephalitis development in some patients may result from NMDAR expression in sebaceous glands and squamous epithelial tissues.
Real-Time Collection of Training Distance of Long-Distance Runners Based on Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Li Xin
Published: May 2021

The real-time and accurate collection of long-distance runners’ training distance can provide real-time scientific basis for long-distance runners’ physical training. Therefore, the real-time collection method of long-distance runners’ training distance based on wireless sensor network is studied in this paper. In this model, the position tracking algorithm of long-distance runners based on wireless sensor network is introduced to collect the training distance of long-distance runners. When collecting the training distance, the energy balanced clustering routing algorithm based on energy and location is used to optimize and balance the energy consumption distribution of nodes and prolong the network life cycle, so that the training distance of long-distance runners can be collected in real time. Through the test, in the straight line and curve training path, this method has significant accuracy in collecting the training distance of single and multiple long-distance runners and can collect the training distance of long-distance runners in real time, which has significant application value.
Tobacco Smoking and the Fecal Microbiome in a Large, Multi-ethnic Cohort
Authors: Prakash Ajay , Peters Brandilyn A. , Cobbs Emilia , Beggs Dia , Choi Heesun , Li Huilin , Hayes Richard B. , Ahn Jiyoung
Published: May 2021

Background:

Increasing evidence suggests that tobacco smoking, a well-known driver of carcinogenesis, influences the gut microbiome; however, these relationships remain understudied in diverse populations. Thus, we performed an analysis of smoking and the gut microbiome in a subset of 803 adults from the multi-ethnic NYU FAMiLI study.

Methods:

We assessed fecal microbiota using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and clustered samples into Amplicon Sequence Variants using QIIME2. We evaluated inferred microbial pathway abundance using PICRUSt. We compared population β-diversity, and relative taxonomic and functional pathway abundance, between never smokers, former smokers, and current smokers.

Results:

We found that the overall composition of the fecal microbiome in former and current smokers differs significantly from that of never smokers. The taxa Prevotella and Veillonellaceae were enriched in current and former smokers, whereas the taxa Lachnospira and Tenericutes were depleted, relative to never smokers. These shifts were consistent across racial and ethnic subgroups. Relative to never smokers, the abundance of taxa enriched in current smokers were positively correlated with the imputed abundance of pathways involving smoking-associated toxin breakdown and response to reactive oxygen species (ROS).

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest common mechanisms of smoking associated microbial change across racial subgroups, regardless of initial microbiome composition. The correlation of these differentials with ROS exposure pathways may suggest a role for these taxa in the known association between smoking, ROS and carcinogenesis.

Impact:

Smoking shifts in the microbiome may be independent of initial composition, stimulating further studies on the microbiome in carcinogenesis and cancer prevention.
Epigenetic Biomarkers of Prenatal Tobacco Smoke Exposure Are Associated with Gene Deletions in Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Xu Keren , Li Shaobo , Whitehead Todd P. , Pandey Priyatama , Kang Alice Y. , Morimoto Libby M. , Kogan Scott C. , Metayer Catherine , Wiemels Joseph L. , de Smith Adam J.
Published: May 2021

Background:

Parental smoking is implicated in the etiology of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the most common childhood cancer. We recently reported an association between an epigenetic biomarker of early-life tobacco smoke exposure at the AHRR gene and increased frequency of somatic gene deletions among ALL cases.

Methods:

Here, we further assess this association using two epigenetic biomarkers for maternal smoking during pregnancy—DNA methylation at AHRR CpG cg05575921 and a recently established polyepigenetic smoking score—in an expanded set of 482 B-cell ALL (B-ALL) cases in the California Childhood Leukemia Study with available Illumina 450K or MethylationEPIC array data. Multivariable Poisson regression models were used to test the associations between the epigenetic biomarkers and gene deletion numbers.

Results:

We found an association between DNA methylation at AHRR CpG cg05575921 and deletion number among 284 childhood B-ALL cases with MethylationEPIC array data, with a ratio of means (RM) of 1.31 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.02–1.69] for each 0.1 β value reduction in DNA methylation, an effect size similar to our previous report in an independent set of 198 B-ALL cases with 450K array data [meta-analysis summary RM (sRM) = 1.32; 95% CI, 1.10–1.57]. The polyepigenetic smoking score was positively associated with gene deletion frequency among all 482 B-ALL cases (sRM = 1.31 for each 4-unit increase in score; 95% CI, 1.09–1.57).

Conclusions:

We provide further evidence that prenatal tobacco-smoke exposure may influence the generation of somatic copy-number deletions in childhood B-ALL.

Impact:

Analyses of deletion breakpoint sequences are required to further understand the mutagenic effects of tobacco smoke in childhood ALL.
Stromal-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Suppress Proliferation of Bone Metastatic Cancer Cells Mediated by ERK2
Authors: Shupp Alison B. , Neupane Manish , Agostini Lebaron C. , Ning Gang , Brody Jonathan R. , Bussard Karen M.
Published: May 2021

Bone is a common site of cancer metastasis, including cancers such as breast, prostate, and multiple myeloma. Disseminated tumor cells (DTC) shed from a primary tumor may travel to bone and can survive undetected for years before proliferating to form overt metastatic lesions. This period of time can be defined as metastatic latency. Once in the metastatic microenvironment, DTCs engage in intercellular communication with surrounding stromal cells, which can influence cancer cell survival, proliferation, and ultimately disease progression. The role of the surrounding tumor microenvironment in regulating DTC fate is becoming increasingly recognized. We have previously shown that in the bone microenvironment, osteoblasts are “educated” by interactions with breast cancer cells, and these “educated” osteoblasts (EO) produce soluble factors that regulate cancer cell proliferation. In this study, we provide evidence indicating that EOs produce small extracellular vesicles (sEV) that suppress breast cancer proliferation, in part through regulation of ERK1/2 signaling. In addition, using EdU-incorporation assays and propidium iodide staining we demonstrate that exposure to EO-derived sEVs decreases breast cancer cell entry to S-phase of cell cycle. We also have evidence that particular microRNAs, including miR-148a-3p, are enriched in EO-derived sEVs, and that miR-148a-3p is capable of regulating breast cancer proliferation.

Implications:

These findings underscore the importance of sEV-mediated communication in the earlier stages of cancer progression, and suggest that EO-derived sEVs may be one mechanism by which the bone microenvironment suppresses breast cancer cell proliferation.
Multimodal Treatment of cT3 Rectal Cancer in a Prospective Multi-Center Observational Study: Can Neoadjuvant Chemoradiation Be Omitted in Patients with an MRI-Assessed, Negative Circumferential Resection Margin?
Authors: Ptok Henry , Meyer Frank , Gastinger Ingo , Garlipp Benjamin
Published: May 2021

Background/Aim: Neoadjuvant chemoradiation (nCRT) in rectal cancer is associated with significant long-term morbidity. It is unclear whether nCRT in resectable mesorectal fascia circumferential resection margin (mrCRM)-negative rectal cancer treated by adequate total mesorectal excision (TME) is beneficial. The aim was to determine if nCRT can be omitted in patients with MRI-assessed cT3 rectal cancer and a negative mrCRM undergoing good-quality TME. Methods: By means of a prospective nationwide registry (n = 43.147; prospective multi-center observational study), patients with cT3 rectal cancer <12 cm from the anal verge with a negative (>1 mm) MRI-assessed CRM undergoing radical resection from 2006 to 2008 were selected. Overall, 87 patients were available for the final analysis (TME-alone, n = 25; nCRT+TME, n = 62). Groups were balanced for age, sex, and ASA score, with a nonsignificant predominance of males in the nCRT+TME group. As main outcome measures, local and distant recurrence rates were compared between patients undergoing primary surgery (TME-alone) vs. neoadjuvant chemoradiation + surgery (nCRT+TME). Results: In the TME-alone group, tumors were located closer to the anal verge (p = 0.018) and demonstrated a smaller minimal circumferential distance from the resection margin (p = 0.036). TME quality was comparable, as was median follow-up (48.9 vs. 44.9 months; p = 0.268). Local recurrences occurred at a similar rate in the TME-alone (n = 1; 5.3%) and nCRT+TME groups (n = 3; 5.5%) (p = 0.994) and were diagnosed at 10 months (TME-alone) and at 8, 13, and 18 months (nCRT+TME). Distant recurrences occurred in 28.9 and 17.4% of the cases, respectively (p = 0.626). The analysis was limited to cT3 cancers with a negative mrCRM. In addition, caution is required when appraising these results because of the limited number of evaluable subjects (especially in the TME-alone group), which adds some uncertainty to the statistical analysis. Conclusions: In this cohort of patients with rectal cancer located <12 cm from the anal verge and a negative mrCRM undergoing adequate TME, omission of nCRT had no impact onto the local recurrence rate.
Comparison of Membrane Depth Determination Techniques for Active Ingredient Skin Penetration Studies Using Microdialysis
Authors: Lubda Markus , Zander Maximilian , Salazar Andrew , Kolmar Harald , von Hagen Jörg
Published: May 2021

Introduction: The skin is a major physical barrier to the environment, and thus, percutaneous delivery of active ingredients to the dermal target site faces a unique set of hurdles. The efficacy of these active ingredients is governed by their release into the underlying epidermal and dermal tissue, especially when administered topically. Objective: The aim of this study was to understand if different physicochemical properties influence the skin penetration of active ingredients and the depth to which they penetrate into the dermis. Methods: A microdialysis (MD) setup was used to compare the percutaneous penetration in superficial and deep implanted MD membranes in porcine skin. The precise MD membrane depth was determined using histological sectioning paired with microscopy, ultrasound, and a novel computed tomographic approach. Results: In study A, the measured depth of the superficial and deep implanted MD membranes was compared using histological sectioning, ultrasound, and computed tomography. Experimental determination of the depth up to which penetration occurs was found to be crucial to percutaneous penetration studies. In study B, the lipophilic differences of the active ingredients and its influences on the penetration was tested using hydrophilic caffeine and lipophilic LIP1 as model compounds, which have an identical molecular weight with different lipophilic characteristics. It is assumed that the lipophilic characteristics of active ingredients influence their penetration and thus governs the concentration of these molecules reaching their target site. Conclusion: The transdermal penetration of caffeine was found to exceed that of LIP1 through the hydrophilic environment of the dermis. Thus, the findings of this study show that the precise MD dermis localization and the physicochemical properties, such as lipophilicity, influence the penetration rate of active ingredients and lay the foundation for creating optimized transdermal delivery systems.
Surgical Techniques and Risk of Postoperative Recurrence in CD: A Game Changer?
Authors: Luglio Gaetano , Kono Toru
Published: May 2021

Background: Since its first description, the role of surgery in Crohn’s disease (CD) has always been controversial; in fact, it has been mainly considered as a gastroenterological disease for long time. Nevertheless, despite great advances in medical therapy, up to 70–80% of patients with CD will require surgery in their lifetime and up to 30% of them will undergo repeated surgeries due to recurrences. For these reasons, the idea of surgery as a tool in the therapeutic armamentarium to consider even in the early stage of the disease has progressively spread in the last decades, even corroborated by reports showing how primary surgery is able to definitively treat around half of the patients at long-term follow-up. More surgeons are nowadays more and more involved in developing techniques to reduce recurrences that have always been considered as part of the natural history of the disease so far. Summary: In this review, we will go through the role of surgery in the management of CD, showing the potential benefits of an early surgical approach as well as the impact of surgical research in the natural history of the disease. From this standpoint, we will show the role of different anastomotic configurations, emphasizing how more and more data are definitively establishing the impact of the novel Kono-S anastomosis in reducing endoscopic and surgical recurrence. Mesentery-based surgery is a novel and appealing surgical perspective, but more data are required. Key Messages: Surgery has demonstrated to be a crucial tool in the therapeutic armamentarium for the management of CD. Early surgery and novel surgical techniques, such as the Kono-S anastomosis, may have an impact on the natural history of the disease, including the possibility to prevent recurrences.
Primary CNS Extranodal Marginal Zone B-Cell Lymphoma: A Case Series of 2 Patients Treated with External Beam Radiation Therapy
Authors: Ariani Rojine , Ballas Leslie
Published: May 2021

Primary CNS extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma (MZBL) is a rare low-grade non-Hodgkin lymphoma characterized predominantly by small B cells, plasma cells, monocytoid cells, and scattered large immunoblasts. As a slow-growing tumor that remains localized, primary CNS MZBL carries an excellent clinical prognosis. Here, we report two cases of primary CNS MZBL successfully treated using external beam radiation therapy along with a literature review.
Is There an Optimal Age Threshold for Searching for Intestinal Metaplasia on Gastric Mucosa in Western Populations?
Authors: Zullo Angelo , Lahner Edith , Hassan Cesare , Annibale Bruno , Esposito Gianluca
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Since screening programs for gastric cancer are not applicable in Western countries, identification and follow-up of gastric precancerous lesions, such as extensive intestinal metaplasia (IM), are worthwhile to increase the diagnosis of cancer at an early stage. We investigated whether an optimal age threshold to detect extensive IM in a European country exists. Methods: This was a post hoc analysis of prospectively collected data in a nationwide study involving consecutive patients aged between 50 and 65 years who underwent an upper endoscopy with the standard 5 gastric biopsies. The presence of extensive (antral and gastric body) IM on gastric mucosa was considered. Results: Data found that the prevalence of extensive IM was distinctly higher in patients aged 60–65 years, with a 2.28-fold increased probability compared to younger patients. None of the other considered factors (sex, BMI, smoking habit, first-degree family history, and symptoms) emerged as an independent predictor of extensive IM in the stomach. Conclusion: When deciding for an occasional gastric cancer screening in Western populations, the choice of an age range of 60–65 years might be appropriate, allowing detection of a distinctly high prevalence of extensive IM deserving scheduled follow-up.
Influence of Height on Risk and Outcome of Patients with Early Breast Cancer: A Pooled Analysis of 4,925 Patients from 5 Randomized Trials of the Austrian Breast and Colorectal Cancer Study Group (ABCSG)
Authors: Gampenrieder Simon P. , Pircher Magdalena , Fesl Christian , Rinnerthaler Gabriel , Mlineritsch Brigitte , Greil-Ressler Sigrun , Steger Günther G. , Sagaster Verena , Fitzal Florian , Exner Ruth , Devyatko Yelena , Balic Marija , Stöger Herbert , Suppan Christoph , Bauernhofer Thomas , Singer Christian F. , Pfeiler Georg , Seifert Michael , Helfgott Ruth , Heck Dietmar , Rumpold Holger , Kwasny Werner , Wieder Ursula , Gnant Michael , Greil Richard ,   Austrian Breast and Colorectal Cancer Study Group (ABCSG)
Published: May 2021

Background: Associations between height, cancer risk and worse outcome have been reported for several cancers including breast cancer. We hypothesized that in breast cancer clinical trials, tall women should be overrepresented and might have worse prognosis. Methods: Data of 4,935 women, included from 1990 to 2010 in 5 trials of the Austrian Breast and Colorectal Cancer Study Group (ABCSG), were analyzed retrospectively. The primary objective was to determine differences in height distribution between the ABCSG cohort and the Austrian female population according to a cross-sectional health survey conducted by the Austrian Statistic Center in 2006 and 2007. Secondary endpoints were disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) in different height classes and differences of body mass index (BMI) distribution. Results: Breast cancer patients in the ABCSG cohort were only slightly but statistically significantly smaller compared to unselected Austrian adult females (mean 164.3 vs. 164.8 cm; p < 0.0001) and significantly more patients were seen in the lower body height class (50 vs. 46%; p < 0.0001) when using the median as a cutoff. However, after adjustment for age, the difference in body height between the two cohorts was no longer significant (p = 0.089). DFS and OS in the two upper height groups (≥170 cm) compared to the two lowest height groups (<160 cm) was not significantly different (5-year DFS: 84.7 vs. 83.0%; HR 0.91, 95% CI 0.73–1.13, p = 0.379; 5-year OS: 94.8 vs. 91.7%; HR 0.74, 95% CI 0.55–1.00, p = 0.051). The BMI of ABCSG patients was significantly higher than in the reference population (mean BMI 24.64 vs. 23.96; p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Our results do not confirm previous findings that greater body height is associated with a higher breast cancer risk and worse outcome.