bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Control of ion energy during plasma enhanced atomic layer deposition: A new strategy for the modulation of TiN growth delay on SiO2
Authors: Belahcen Samia , Vallée Christophe , Bsiesy Ahmad , Chaker Ahmad , Jaffal Moustapha , Yeghoyan Taguhi , Bonvalot Marceline
Published: December 2020

Deposition of titanium nitride thin films by plasma enhanced atomic layer deposition has been realized on thermal silicon oxide substrates in an inductively coupled plasma reactor. The plasma step involves a H2 (40 sccm)/N2 (5 sccm)/Ar (10 sccm) gas mixture, and growth has been followed by in situ ellipsometric measurements. A tunable substrate bias voltage has been applied in the vicinity of the substrate to modulate plasma-ion energy and investigate its impact on the growth mechanism. We have observed that an increase in the applied bias power leads to a gradual TiN nucleation delay of up to 30 cycles at 80 W radio frequency bias power. An increase in the H2 content of the plasma gas mixture shows that hydrogen species from the plasma can significantly deactivate the SiO2 substrate, thanks to reduction reactions induced by H3+, Ar+, and ArH+ ions leading to the formation of Si–H surface bonds. A nitrogen-rich plasma gas mixture results in N atom incorporation on the substrate surface, which in turn favors subsequent TiN growth. The combination of hydrogen-rich plasma chemistry with a high applied substrate bias power leads to a TiN growth delay larger than 50 cycles. These results provide a valuable implementation for the development of area-selective deposition processes.
Case of autoimmune hepatitis with overlap systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Goyes Daniela , Malladi Vijayram R , Ishtiaq Rizwan , Al-Khazraji Ahmed
Published: December 2020

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is an autoimmune liver disease characterised by the presence of autoantibodies including antinuclear antibodies, anti-smooth muscle antibody and hypergammaglobulinaemia. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a systemic disease that can affect multiple organs. Coexistence of AIH and SLE as an overlap syndrome occurs in about 1%–2.6% of the AIH cases. Since both conditions share common autoimmune features, their coexistence can pose a diagnostic dilemma which can result in a delay in treatment. We present here a challenging case of a middle-aged woman with AIH in remission who later developed new-onset fatigue, pleural effusion and splenomegaly.
Systematic examination of preprint platforms for use in the medical and biomedical sciences setting
Authors: Kirkham Jamie J , Penfold Naomi C , Murphy Fiona , Boutron Isabelle , Ioannidis John P , Polka Jessica , Moher David
Published: December 2020

Objectives

The objective of this review is to identify all preprint platforms with biomedical and medical scope and to compare and contrast the key characteristics and policies of these platforms.

Study design and setting

Preprint platforms that were launched up to 25 June 2019 and have a biomedical and medical scope according to MEDLINE’s journal selection criteria were identified using existing lists, web-based searches and the expertise of both academic and non-academic publication scientists. A data extraction form was developed, pilot tested and used to collect data from each preprint platform’s webpage(s).

Results

A total of 44 preprint platforms were identified as having biomedical and medical scope, 17 (39%) were hosted by the Open Science Framework preprint infrastructure, 6 (14%) were provided by F1000 Research (the Open Research Central infrastructure) and 21 (48%) were other independent preprint platforms. Preprint platforms were either owned by non-profit academic groups, scientific societies or funding organisations (n=28; 64%), owned/partly owned by for-profit publishers or companies (n=14; 32%) or owned by individuals/small communities (n=2; 5%). Twenty-four (55%) preprint platforms accepted content from all scientific fields although some of these had restrictions relating to funding source, geographical region or an affiliated journal’s remit. Thirty-three (75%) preprint platforms provided details about article screening (basic checks) and 14 (32%) of these actively involved researchers with context expertise in the screening process. Almost all preprint platforms allow submission to any peer-reviewed journal following publication, have a preservation plan for read access and most have a policy regarding reasons for retraction and the sustainability of the service.

Conclusion

A large number of preprint platforms exist for use in biomedical and medical sciences, all of which offer researchers an opportunity to rapidly disseminate their research findings onto an open-access public server, subject to scope and eligibility.
Implementing telehealth support to increase physical activity in girls and women with Rett syndrome—ActivRett: protocol for a waitlist randomised controlled trial
Authors: Downs Jenny , Lotan Meir , Elefant Cochavit , Leonard Helen , Wong Kingsley , Buckley Nicholas , Stahlhut Michelle
Published: December 2020

Introduction

Individuals with Rett syndrome (RTT) experience impaired gross motor skills, limiting their capacity to engage in physical activities and participation in activities. There is limited evidence of the effectiveness of supported physical activity interventions. This study aims to evaluate the effects of a telehealth-delivered physical activity programme on physical activity, sedentary behaviour and quality of life in RTT.

Methods and analysis

This is a multicentre study, conducted in Australia, Denmark and Israel. It is a randomised waitlist-controlled trial comparing an intervention to support physical activity with usual care. Participants are children and adults with RTT, recruited from the Australian Rett Syndrome Database, the Danish Center for Rett Syndrome and the Rett Syndrome Association of Israel. The intervention duration is 12 weeks, including fortnightly telephone contact to plan, monitor and develop individual activity programmes. Outcomes are measured at baseline, at 13 weeks and then at 25 weeks. The primary outcomes are sedentary behaviour assessed with an activPAL accelerometer and the number of daily steps measured with a StepWatch Activity Monitor. Secondary outcomes include sleep, behaviour and quality of life. Caregiver experiences will be assessed immediately after the intervention using a satisfaction questionnaire. Group differences for each outcome will be evaluated with analysis of covariance, adjusting for baseline values on an intention-to-treat basis.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval has been obtained in Western Australia from the Child and Adolescent Health Services (RGS3371), in Denmark from the Capital Region Ethics Committee (H-19040514) and in Israel from the Ariel University Institutional Review Board (AU-HEA-ML-20190331). Manuscripts on the development of the intervention from pilot work and the results of the intervention will be submitted to peer-reviewed journals. Results will be presented at conferences and consumer forums. We will develop an online resource documenting the physical activity programme and available supporting evidence.

Trial registration number

NCT04167059; Pre-results.
Biomarkers for length of hospital stay, changes in muscle mass, strength and physical function in older medical patients: protocol for the Copenhagen PROTECT study—a prospective cohort study
Authors: Kamper Rikke S , Schultz Martin , Hansen Sofie K , Andersen Helle , Ekmann Anette , Nygaard Hanne , Helland Fredrik , Wejse Miriam R , Rahbek Camilla B , Noerst Tim , Pressel Eckart , Nielsen Finn Erland , Suetta Charlotte
Published: December 2020

Introduction

Sarcopenia is generally used to describe the age-related loss of muscle mass and strength believed to play a major role in the pathogenesis of physical frailty and functional impairment that may occur with old age. The knowledge surrounding the prevalence and determinants of sarcopenia in older medical patients is scarce, and it is unknown whether specific biomarkers can predict physical deconditioning during hospitalisation. We hypothesise that a combination of clinical, functional and circulating biomarkers can serve as a risk stratification tool and can (i) identify older acutely ill medical patients at risk of prolonged hospital stays and (ii) predict changes in muscle mass, muscle strength and function during hospitalisation.

Method and analysis

The Copenhagen PROTECT study is a prospective cohort study consisting of acutely ill older medical patients admitted to the acute medical ward at Copenhagen University Hospital, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Denmark. Assessments are performed within 24 hours of admission and include blood samples, body composition, muscle strength, physical function and questionnaires. A subgroup of patients transferred to the Geriatric Department are included in a smaller geriatric cohort and have additional assessments at discharge to evaluate the relative change in circulating biomarker concentrations, body composition, muscle strength and physical function during hospitalisation. Enrolment commenced 4 November 2019, and proceeds until August 2021.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol has been approved by the local ethics committee of Copenhagen and Frederiksberg (H-19039214) and the Danish Data Protection Agency (P-2019-239) and all experimental procedures were performed in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki. Findings from the project, regardless of the outcome, will be published in relevant peer-reviewed scientific journals in online (www.clinicaltrials.gov).

Trial registration number

NCT04151108
Medical Marijuana and Opioids (MEMO) Study: protocol of a longitudinal cohort study to examine if medical cannabis reduces opioid use among adults with chronic pain
Authors: Cunningham Chinazo O , Starrels Joanna L , Zhang Chenshu , Bachhuber Marcus A , Sohler Nancy L , Levin Frances R , Minami Haruka , Slawek Deepika E , Arnsten Julia H
Published: December 2020

Introduction

In the USA, opioid analgesic use and overdoses have increased dramatically. One rapidly expanding strategy to manage chronic pain in the context of this epidemic is medical cannabis. Cannabis has analgesic effects, but it also has potential adverse effects. Further, its impact on opioid analgesic use is not well studied. Managing pain in people living with HIV is particularly challenging, given the high prevalence of opioid analgesic and cannabis use. This study’s overarching goal is to understand how medical cannabis use affects opioid analgesic use, with attention to Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol content, HIV outcomes and adverse events.

Methods and analyses

We are conducting a cohort study of 250 adults with and without HIV infection with (a) severe or chronic pain, (b) current opioid use and (c) who are newly certified for medical cannabis in New York. Over 18 months, we collect data via in-person visits every 3 months and web-based questionnaires every 2 weeks. Data sources include: questionnaires; medical, pharmacy and Prescription Monitoring Program records; urine and blood samples; and physical function tests. Using marginal structural models and comparisons within participants’ 2-week time periods (unit of analysis), we will examine how medical cannabis use (primary exposure) affects (1) opioid analgesic use (primary outcome), (2) HIV outcomes (HIV viral load, CD4 count, antiretroviral adherence, HIV risk behaviours) and (3) adverse events (cannabis use disorder, illicit drug use, diversion, overdose/deaths, accidents/injuries, acute care utilisation).

Ethics and dissemination

This study is approved by the Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine institutional review board. Findings will be disseminated through conferences, peer-reviewed publications and meetings with medical cannabis stakeholders.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov Registry (NCT03268551); Pre-results.
Assessment of SARS-CoV-2 infection by Reverse transcription-PCR and serology in the Paris area: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Cohen Robert , Jung Camille , Ouldali Naim , Sellam Aurelie , Batard Christophe , Cahn-Sellem Fabienne , Elbez Annie , Wollner Alain , Romain Olivier , Corrard François , Aberrane Said , Soismier Nathalie , Creidy Rita , Smati-Lafarge Mounira , Launay Odile , Béchet Stéphane , Varon Emmanuelle , Levy Corinne
Published: December 2020

Background

Several studies indicated that children seem to be less frequently infected with SARS-CoV-2 and are potentially less contagious than adults. To examine the spread of SARS-CoV-2, we combined both Reverse transcription-PCR testing and serology in children in the most affected region in France, Paris, during the COVID-19 epidemic.

Methods

From 14 April 2020 to 12 May 2020, we conducted a cross-sectional, prospective, multicentre study. Healthy controls and pauci-symptomatic children from birth to age 15 years were enrolled by 27 ambulatory paediatricians. A nasopharyngeal swab was taken for detection of SARS-CoV-2 by Reverse transcription-PCR and a microsample of blood for micromethod serology.

Results

Among the 605 children, 322 (53.2%) were asymptomatic and 283 (46.8%) were symptomatic. Reverse transcription-PCR and serology results were positive for 11 (1.8%) and 65 (10.7%) children, respectively, with no significant difference between asymptomatic and pauci-symptomatic children. Only three children were Reverse transcription-PCR-positive without any antibody response detected. The frequency of Reverse transcription-PCR SARS-CoV-2 positivity was significantly higher for children with positive than negative serology results (12.3% vs 0.6%, p<0.001). Contact with a person with confirmed COVID-19 increased the odds of Reverse transcription-PCR positivity (OR 7.8, 95% CI 1.5 to 40.7) and serology positivity (OR 15.1, 95% CI 6.6 to 34.6).

Conclusion

In an area heavily affected by COVID-19, after the peak of the first epidemic wave and during the lockdown, the rate of children with Reverse transcription-PCR SARS-CoV-2 positivity was very low (1.8%), but that of serology positivity was higher (10.7%). Most children with positive Reverse transcription-PCR results also had positive serology results.

Trial registration number

NCT04318431.
Persistent clinical features in paediatric patients after SARS-CoV-2 virological recovery: a retrospective population-based cohort study from a single centre in Latvia
Authors: Smane Liene , Stars Inese , Pucuka Zanda , Roge Ieva , Pavare Jana
Published: December 2020

The COVID-19 related state of emergency in Latvia was declared on 12 March 2020. Consequently, Children’s Clinical University Hospital in Riga, Latvia, established a postacute outpatient service for individuals after recovery from COVID-19. Although information regarding the epidemiology and clinical features of COVID-19 in children has accumulated, relevant reports about persistent symptoms after recovery are lacking. We aimed to determine data on COVID-19 persistent symptoms after recovery in children in Latvia. Persistent symptoms have been reported in 9 out of 30 children.
Utility of a routine ultrasound for detection of ectopic pregnancies among women requesting abortion: a retrospective review
Authors: Duncan Clara I , Reynolds-Wright John J , Cameron Sharon T
Published: December 2020

Introduction

Routine ultrasound may be used in abortion services to determine gestational age and confirm an intrauterine pregnancy. However, ultrasound adds complexity to care and results may be inconclusive, delaying abortion. We sought to determine the rate of ectopic pregnancy and the utility of routine ultrasound in its detection, in a community abortion service.

Methods

Retrospective case record review of women requesting abortion over a 5-year period (2015–2019) with an outcome of ectopic pregnancy or pregnancy of unknown location (PUL) at a service (Edinburgh, UK) conducting routine ultrasound on all women. Records were searched for symptoms at presentation, development of symptoms during clinical care, significant risk factors and routine ultrasound findings.

Results

Only 29/11 381 women (0.25%, 95% CI 0.18%, 0.33%) had an ectopic pregnancy or PUL (tubal=18, caesarean scar=1, heterotopic=1, PUL=9). Eleven (38%) cases had either symptoms at presentation (n=8) and/or significant risk factors for ectopic pregnancy (n=4). A further 12 women developed symptoms during their clinical care. Of the remaining six, three were PUL treated with methotrexate and three were ectopic (salpingectomy=2, methotrexate=1). In three cases, the baseline ultrasound indicated a probable early intrauterine pregnancy.

Conclusions

Ectopic pregnancies are uncommon among women presenting for abortion. The value of routine ultrasound in excluding ectopic pregnancy in symptom-free women without significant risk factors is questionable as it may aid detection of some cases but may provide false reassurance that a pregnancy is intrauterine.
Acupuncture Medical Therapy and its Underlying Mechanisms: A Systematic Review
Authors: Wen Jingyi , Chen Xi , Yang Yong , Liu Jianxin , Li Enyin , Liu Jiayou , Zhou Ziwei , Wu Weihua , He Kai
Published: December 2020

As a traditional Chinese alternative health care approach, acupuncture is gaining increasing attention and reputation in China and overseas. While becoming increasingly popular globally, some consumers and professionals still know little about the therapy and underlying mechanisms of acupuncture. Due to local superiority, there are large numbers of both clinical applications and mechanistic studies performed in China compared to countries overseas. Herein, this review attempts to give a comprehensive profile of the development, application, and mechanisms of acupuncture in treating major diseases. The number of clinical publications concerning acupuncture-treated neurological diseases, endocrine and metabolic diseases, circulatory diseases, respiratory diseases, etc. is first counted, and then, the application and therapeutic mechanisms of acupuncture on the predominant diseases in each category, including obesity, facial paralysis, sciatica, depression, hypertension, asthma, etc., are specifically discussed in this paper. The evolution of acupuncture tools and the rationality of acupoints are also discussed. This review not only summarizes the mechanisms of acupuncture but also provides useful information, such as specific acupoints and acupuncture procedures, for treating common diseases. Therefore, the current study provides useful information for both investigators and acupuncturists.
Implementation of the CMS-TOP-18-003 analysis in the MadAnalysis 5 framework (four top quarks with at least two leptons; 137 fb−1)
Authors: Darmé Luc , Fuks Benjamin
Published: December 2020

We present the implementation in MadAnalysis 5 of the CMS-TOP-18-003 search for the production of four top quarks in the Standard Model and detail the validation of this implementation. This CMS analysis studies Standard Model four-top production through the same-sign and multi-lepton plus jets channels, using a luminosity of 137 fb[Formula: see text] of proton-proton collisions at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV. We validate our implementation work by studying various distributions and event counts describing the properties of the signal in the context of the Standard Model: jet and [Formula: see text]-jet multiplicities, the hadronic activity [Formula: see text], and the number of expected events populating the various analysis signal regions. We then provide a small example of usage of this implementation to constrain a toy new physics model.
Solutions, group analysis and conservation laws of the (2+1)-dimensional time fractional ZK–mZK–BBM equation for gravity waves
Authors: Lu Changna , Chang Shengxiang , Zhang Zongguo , Yang Hongwei
Published: December 2020

Based on the investigation of (2+1)-dimensional ZK–mZK–BBM equation, it describes the gravity water waves in a long-wave regime. With the help of the semi-inverse method and the variational method, the time fractional ZK–mZK–BBM equation is derived in the sense of Riemann–Liouville fractional derivatives, which opens a new window for understanding the features of gravity water waves. Further, the symmetry of the (2+1)-dimensional time fractional ZK–mZK–BBM equation is studied by fractional order symmetry. Meanwhile, based on the new conservation theorem, the conserved laws of (2+1)-dimensional time fractional ZK–mZK–BBM equation are constructed. Finally, we show how to derive the solutions of the time fractional ZK–mZK–BBM equation by a bilinear method and the radial basis functions (RBFs) meshless approach.
Most graphs are knotted
Authors: Ichihara Kazuhiro , Mattman Thomas W.
Published: December 2020

We present four models for a random graph and show that, in each case, the probability that a graph is intrinsically knotted goes to one as the number of vertices increases. We also argue that, for [Formula: see text], most graphs of order [Formula: see text] are intrinsically knotted and, for [Formula: see text], most of order [Formula: see text] are not [Formula: see text]-apex. We observe that [Formula: see text] is the threshold for intrinsic knotting and linking in Gilbert’s model.
ON WEIGHTED k-FRACTIONAL OPERATORS WITH APPLICATIONS IN MATHEMATICAL PHYSICS
Authors: WU SHANHE , SAMRAIZ MUHAMMAD , PERVEEN ZAHIDA , IQBAL SAJID , HUSSAIN AZHAR
Published: December 2020

The main objective of this paper is to present weighted [Formula: see text]-fractional integral and derivative operators of a function with respect to another function and to uncover their properties. In addition to this, we find the weighted Laplace transform of the newly defined operators. As applications of the weighted [Formula: see text]-fractional operators in mathematical physics, we study the fractional forms of kinetic differintegral equation and the time-fractional heat equation involving the novel operators and find their solutions using weighted Laplace transform.
FRACTAL NETWORKS ON DÜRER-TYPE POLYGON
Authors: HUANG YUKE , ZHANG HANXIONG , XUE YUMEI
Published: December 2020

Dürer’s pentagon is known to the artist Albrecht Dürer. In this paper, we consider directed networks generated by Dürer-type polygons. We aim to present a study on some properties of these networks, such as degree distribution, clustering coefficient and average path length. We show that such networks have the scale-free effect, but do not have the small-world effect.
Synthesis and studies of covalently linked pyrrolyl bridged fluorescent dimers
Authors: Sinha Avisikta , Umasekhar Booruga , Ravikanth Mangalampalli
Published: December 2020

A series of stable fluorescent compounds namely the pyrrolyl bridged bis-(BODIPY) and bis-(22-oxacorrole) dimers were synthesized using pyrrolyl bridged bis-(dipyrromethane) as key precursor. The pyrrolyl bridged bis-(dipyrromethane) was synthesized in two steps by using commercially available compounds and used for the synthesis of pyrrolyl bridged bis-(BODIPY). The chloro groups present at the bridging pyrrole ring of bis-(BODIPY) dimer were replaced with aryl groups by the treatment of two different aryl boronic acids under Suzuki Coupling conditions. In order to show a further use of the pyrrole bridged bis-(dipyrromethane) precursor, it was condensed with 16-oxatripyrrane which rendered the pyrrolyl bridged bis-(22-oxacorrole) dimer as a green fluorescent compound in 8% yield. The dimers were thoroughly characterized by NMR and mass and the properties were investigated by absorption, fluorescence, electrochemical and DFT/TD-DFT studies. DFT studies showed that the bis-(BODIPY) and bis-(22-oxacorrole) dimers were highly symmetric and TD-DFT studies were in agreement with the experimental absorption and redox properties.
Integrality properties in the moduli space of elliptic curves: CM case
Authors: Schmid Stefan
Published: December 2020

For each algebraic number [Formula: see text], a result of Habegger [P. Habegger, Singular moduli that are algebraic units, Algebra Number Theory 9(7) (2015) 1515–1524] shows that there are only finitely many singular moduli [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] is an algebraic unit. His result uses Duke’s Equidistribution Theorem and is thus not effective. In this paper, we give an effective proof of Habegger’s result assuming that [Formula: see text] is not a singular modulus itself. We give an explicit bound, which depends only on [Formula: see text], on the discriminant [Formula: see text] associated with a singular modulus [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] is a unit. This implies explicit bounds on the number of these singular moduli.
Optimal Sensor Placement and Minimum Number Selection of Sensors for Health Monitoring of Transmission Towers
Authors: Zhou Chuandi , Liu Yibing , Wu Ji , Zhou Chao
Published: December 2020

Transmission towers are structurally complex, which makes it challenging to choose the right place and number of sensors for health monitoring. In this paper, optimal sensor placement of a cat-head-type transmission tower is conducted by using the Effective Independent Method (EIM) and a method is proposed for calculating the minimum number of sensors for structural health monitoring by combining EIM and Modal Assurance Criterion (MAC). The method for calculating the number of sensors prescribed in this paper derives a curve that shows the relationship between MAC value and the number of sensors. It is found that the MAC value decreases with increase in the number of sensors. When the number of sensors reaches a certain threshold, the curve tends to stabilize. Then, the number of sensors corresponding to the minimum MAC is proposed as the minimum number of sensors. Through calculation, the minimum number of sensors of the cat-head-type transmission tower is obtained. Also, the optimal sensor placement results show that the position of a large number of sensors includes the position of a smaller number of sensors.
The Role of Active Inflammation and Surgical Therapy in Crohn’s Disease Recurrence
Authors: Ingallinella S. , Campanelli M. , Antonelli A. , Arcudi C. , Bellato V. , Divizia A. , Franceschilli M. , Petagna L. , Sensi B. , Sibio S. , Siragusa L. , Sica G. S.
Published: December 2020

An altered balance between effector and regulatory factors is supposed to sustain the tissue-damaging immune response in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Several studies demonstrate that severe active inflammation is a strong predictor for surgical complications and recurrence. Indeed, bowel resection in Crohn’s disease (CD) patients has a high surgical recurrence rate. In this review, we examined the IBD inflammatory pathways, the current surgical treatments, and the almost inevitable recurrence. The question that might arise is if the cure of intestinal CD is to be found in the surgical approach. A selective search of two databases (PubMed and the Cochrane Library) has been carried out without considering a specific time horizon as inclusion criteria. The scope of this literature review was investigating on the role of inflammation in the management of CD. The following key words have been used to develop the query string: (i) inflammation; (ii) Crohn’s disease; (iii) surgery; and (iv) postsurgical recurrence.
The Combinatorial Effect of Cisplatin and Moxibustion on Tumor Growth Inhibition with Special Reference to Modulation of the Immune Microenvironment in Lewis Lung Cancer Mice
Authors: Wang Bin , Huang Jin , Li Shanshan , Pan Zhanyu , Guo Yongming , Yang Yinli , Li Ling , Wang Cong , Gong Yinan , Wang Jiaqi , Lu Shanshan , Xu Zhifang , Guo Yi
Published: December 2020

Objective. As a first‐line treatment for non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the efficacy of chemotherapy is still unsatisfactory. Moxibustion has been shown to improve the side effects of radiotherapy and chemotherapy and regulate immune function. This study aimed to explore the antitumor effects and potential mechanisms of combinatorial cisplatin and moxibustion treatment for NSCLC by targeting the tumor microenvironment. Methods. Lewis lung cancer (LLC)‐bearing mice were induced and treated with cisplatin or/and moxibustion at ST36 (Zusanli), and the growth, weight, and area of the tumor were evaluated. The numbers of various T cell subsets and myeloid cells in the tumor were assessed by flow cytometry, and the gene expression of related markers and cytokines was detected with real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR). In addition, the tumor vascular structure was investigated using CD31 and α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) immunofluorescence staining. The expression of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) was detected by immunohistochemical staining. Results. Both cisplatin and moxibustion inhibited LLC tumor growth and reduced both the tumor area and weight, with the combinatorial therapy showing superior outcomes. Moxibustion upregulated the infiltration of CD4+ T cells and Th1 cells in the tumor, and the combinatorial therapy increased the proportion of CD8+ cytotoxic T cells (CTLs), CD4+T cells, Th1, Th9 cells, and M1 macrophages, as well as the expression of Cd69, Ifng, and Cd86 mRNA. The combinatorial therapy improved vascular normalization by increasing both the microvessel density (MVD) and pericyte coverage (α‐SMA area density) and inhibiting the expression of the VEGF. Conclusions. Combinatorial cisplatin and moxibustion treatment inhibited the LLC tumor growth by mechanisms related to the improvement of the tumor immune microenvironment and vascular normalization, providing an effective combinatorial therapy beneficial for patients with NSCLC.
Rail Optimization of Noncircular Curve of Crane Turning Based on Quasiquartic Bezier Curve with Three Shape Parameters
Authors: Liang Gang , Wu Zhangjie , Yu Weikun
Published: December 2020

In order to solve the problems of rail gnawing and jamming during turning of rail crane, a noncircular curve scheme of the crane based on Bezier curve is proposed. In the scheme, the quasiquartic Bezier curve with three shape parameters is chosen as the turning curve of the inner rail. According to the single-wheel and multiwheel situation of the crane, the tracks of the front and rear points on the outer side are calculated through the geometric relationship of the traveling mechanism of the crane cart. Taking the minimum deviation of the front and back points as the objective function of optimization, the optimal parameters of Bezier curve are searched by the multistart point heuristic global optimization algorithm, and the outer rail trajectory is fitted by Hermite interpolation. The calculation results show that the maximum deviation of the front and rear points on the outside of the crane during the turning process decreases significantly when the quartic Bezier curve is used as the turning track compared with the traditional circular turning track. When the quasiquartic Bezier curve with three shape parameters is used as the inner rail, the deviation can be further reduced by adjusting the three parameters. In addition, it is also analyzed the specific influence of turning parameters on the deviation. Finally, ADAMS is used to carry out dynamic simulation experiment and demonstrate the calculation.
Oral Chinese Herbal Medicine as Prophylactic Treatment for Episodic Migraine in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Lyu Shaohua , Zhang Claire Shuiqing , Guo Xinfeng , Zhang Anthony Lin , Sun Jingbo , Lu Chuanjian , Xue Charlie Changli , Luo Xiaodong
Published: December 2020

Background. The prophylactic effects of Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) for migraine were examined in numerous clinical trials. This review aimed to analyze the effectiveness and safety of CHM as prophylactic treatment of migraine compared to flunarizine. Methods. Nine databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated effects of CHM for episodic migraine prophylaxis compared to flunarizine, published before March 2019. Results. Thirty‐five RCTs with 2,840 participants met the inclusion criteria, and 31 of them were included in meta‐analyses. The overall meta‐analysis indicated that, when compared to flunarizine, CHM reduced the frequency of migraine attacks at the end of treatment (EoT) (21 studies, mean difference (MD) −1.23, 95% confidence interval (CI) (−1.69, −0.76)) and at the end of follow‐up (EoFU) (five studies, MD −0.96, 95% CI (−1.70, −0.21)). Subgroup analyses based on the treatment duration, follow‐up duration, and the dosage of flunarizine showed that CHM was superior to or comparable with flunarizine in reducing migraine frequency. Similar results were also found for secondary outcomes such as the pain visual analogue scale, migraine duration, responder rate, and acute medication usage. In particular, the studies that used CHM containing herb pairs (Chuan Xiong plus Bai Zhi and Chuan Xiong plus Tian Ma) showed promising results. However, the certainty of this evidence was evaluated as “low” or “very low” using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations approach. Conclusion. CHM appeared to be comparable with flunarizine in reducing the frequency of episodic migraine attacks in adults at EoT and EoFU and well‐tolerated by participants, regardless of the treatment duration, follow‐up duration, and dosage of flunarizine. Due to the low certainty of the evidence, the suggested promising prophylactic outcomes require higher quality evidence from further rigorous RCTs.
Deformation Mechanism and Control Technology of the Surrounding Rock of the Floor Roadway under the Influence of Mining
Authors: Zhao Qingchong , Fu Baojie , Yin Jiadi
Published: December 2020

Deformation and failure mechanism of the surrounding rock of the floor roadway under the influence of working face mining is complicated, and roadway control is difficult. The floor roadway of the 11123 working face in Pan’er Mine is taken as the research object of this study based on semi‐infinite body theory of elastic mechanics to establish a mechanical model along the advancing direction of the working face and derive the stress expression of any point in the affected area of floor mining. According to the theoretical results, effective reinforcement and support schemes are then proposed. FLAC3D numerical simulation analyzes the stress and deformation of the surrounding rock of the floor roadway before and after the reinforcement. The numerical simulation results showed that (1) mining abutment pressure of the overlying working face forms a certain range of stress concentration on the roof and two sides of the roadway and will cause deformation and damage to the floor roadway and (2) overall bearing capacity of the surrounding rock of the roadway is significantly improved, and surface displacement of the floor roadway is reduced by 64 mm through the reinforcement and support of the floor roadway. On‐site monitoring data of the floor roadway in the 11123 working face of Pan’er Mine showed that the maximum displacement of the roadway roof and two sides is controlled at approximately 80 mm, and the surrounding rock deformation of the roadway is appropriately controlled to meet the needs of safe production.
Development and Validation of a Nine-Redox-Related Long Noncoding RNA Signature in Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Qi-Dong Xia , Yang Xun , Lu Jun-Lin , Liu Chen-Qian , Sun Jian-Xuan , Li Cong , Wang Shao-Gang
Published: December 2020

Background. Redox plays an essential role in the pathogeneses and progression of tumors, which could be regulated by long noncoding RNA (lncRNA). We aimed to develop and verify a novel redox-related lncRNA-based prognostic signature for clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Materials and Methods. A total of 530 ccRCC patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) were included in this study. All the samples were randomly split into training and test group at a 1 : 1 ratio. Then, we screened differentially expressed redox-related lncRNAs and constructed a novel prognostic signature from the training group using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operation (LASSO) and COX regression. Next, to verify the accuracy of the signature, we conducted risk and survival analysis, as well as the construction of ROC curve, nomogram, and calibration curves in the training group, test group, and all samples. Finally, the redox gene-redox-related lncRNA interaction network was constructed, and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was performed to investigate the status of redox-related functions between high/low-risk groups. Results. A nine-redox-related lncRNA signature consisted of AC025580.3, COLCA1, AC027601.2, DLEU2, AC004918.3, AP006621.2, AL031670.1, SPINT1-AS1, and LAMA5-AS1 was significantly associated with overall survival in ccRCC patients. The signature proved efficient, and thus, a nomogram was successfully assembled. In addition, the GSEA results demonstrated that two major redox-related functions were enhanced in the high-risk group ccRCC patients. Conclusions. Our findings robustly demonstrate that the nine-redox-related lncRNA signature could serve as an efficient prognostic indicator for ccRCC.
Triaxial Creep Behavior of Red Sandstone in Freeze-Thaw Environments
Authors: Song Yongjun , Che Yongxin , Zhang Leitao , Ren Jianxi , Chen Shaojie , Hu Mengling
Published: December 2020

To investigate the time-dependent mechanical properties of rock masses in cold regions under the effects of freeze-thaw cycling and long-term loading, triaxial multilevel loading and unloading creep tests were performed on saturated red sandstone samples subjected to different numbers of freeze-thaw cycles. The effects of freeze-thaw cycles and confining pressure on the creep properties, long-term strength, and creep failure mode of the rock were analyzed. The effect of freeze-thaw cycles on the microstructure of the rock was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that as the number of freeze-thaw cycles increased, the rock particle boundaries became more distinct, and more pores formed. The effect of freeze-thaw cycles on the creep deformation of red sandstone was related to the loading stress level. At low stress levels, the rock viscoelastic strain increased gradually and almost linearly with an increasing number of freeze-thaw cycles; in contrast, at high stress levels, the rock viscoelastic strain increased nonlinearly. The viscoplastic strain increased almost linearly with increasing freeze-thaw cycles. The fourth loading stress level (70%

σ

c

) corresponded to the transition of the creep deformation of the red sandstone. When the confining pressure was low, a higher stress level caused the confining pressure to have a more significant effect on the creep strain. However, as the confining pressure continued to increase, the effect of the confining pressure on the creep strain eventually disappeared. The long-term strength of the red sandstone decreased approximately linearly with an increase in the number of freeze-thaw cycles. When the number of freeze-thaw cycles and the confining pressure were high, the rock samples formed a transverse shear plane and were more fragmented than those without a transverse shear plane. These results provide a reference for construction in rock mass engineering and long-term stability analysis in cold regions.
Rock Mass Classification for Columnar Jointed Basalt: A Case Study of Baihetan Hydropower Station
Authors: Zhang Shiyue , He Mingjie , Gu Jinjian , Cui Zhihao , Wang Jian , Zhong Lin , Meng Qingxiang , Wang Huanling
Published: December 2020

Rock mass classification is important in preliminary design of geotechnical engineering projects. Using the columnar jointed basalt at the foundation of Baihetan Hydropower Station as an example, this paper presents a classification scheme of the columnar jointed rock. Unlike many common rock masses, an obvious characteristic of columnar jointed rock is that it is discontinuous in geometry while continuous in mechanics. Due to the inapplicability of existing rock mass classification systems, a classification scheme, combined with rock mass integrity, weak plane tightness, and permeability, is proposed. The new classification system has five grades with quantitative factors, which takes into account the features of columnar joints. As an easy-to-use scheme and case study, it would be helpful as a reference in the rock mass classification of similar problems.
Effects of Tai Chi Chuan on Cognitive Function in Older Adults with Cognitive Impairment: A Systematic and Meta‐Analytic Review
Authors: Cai Zhidong , Jiang Wanting , Yin Jilin , Chen Zhitong , Wang Jing , Wang Xing
Published: December 2020

This systematic and meta‐analytic review aimed to investigate the effects of Tai Chi Chuan (TCC) on the cognitive function of the elderly with cognitive impairment and to analyze the moderators of these effects. We searched eight electronic databases for randomized controlled trials on the effects of TCC on cognitive function, published up to June 14, 2020. The PEDro scale was used to evaluate the methodological quality of the included literature. Stata14.0 software was used for meta‐analysis, subgroup analysis, and publication bias testing. A total of 19 studies and 1,970 samples were included. The methodological quality of the included literature was fair to good, and there was no publication bias. Overall, the research shows that the effect of TCC on the elderly with cognitive impairment is statistically significant (SMD = 0.31, p < 0.0001). Five of the cognitive function subdomains were significant moderators [Q (5) = 15.66, p = 0.008], and the effect size (ES) was the largest for global cognitive function (SMD = 0.41), followed by executive function (SMD = 0.33), memory (SMD = 0.31), and verbal fluency (SMD = 0.27). Regarding the exercise prescription variables, results were significantly moderated by the length of exercise training [Q (2) = 6.00, p = 0.05], with ESs largest for moderate length (SMD = 0.41), followed by short length (SMD = 0.40) and long length (SMD = 0.29). However, the results were not moderated by session time or frequency. TCC can improve multiple cognitive functions of the elderly with cognitive impairment. The intervention effects are moderated by exercise length, but not by exercise session time and frequency.
Developing Roadway Safety Models for Winter Weather Conditions Using a Feature Selection Algorithm
Authors: Hallmark Bryce , Dong Jing
Published: December 2020

Inclement winter weather such as snow, sleet, and freezing rain significantly impacts roadway safety. To assess the safety implications of winter weather, maintenance operations, and traffic operations, various crash frequency models have been developed. In this study, several datasets, including for weather, snowplow operations, and traffic information, were combined to develop a robust crash frequency model for winter weather conditions. When developing statistical models using such large-scale multivariate datasets, one of the challenges is to determine which explanatory variables should be included in the model. This paper presents a feature selection framework using a machine-learning algorithm known as the Boruta algorithm and exhaustive search to select a list of variables to be included in a negative binomial crash frequency model. This paper’s proposed feature selection framework generates consistent and intuitive results because the feature selection process reduces the complexity of interactions among different variables in the dataset. This enables our crash frequency model to better help agencies identify effective ways to improve roadway safety via winter maintenance operations. For example, increased plowing operations before the start of storms are associated with a decrease in crash rates. Thus, pretreatment operations can play a significant role in mitigating the impact of winter storms.
Antioxidant and α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Activities Guided Isolation and Identification of Components from Mango Seed Kernel
Authors: Yang Dan , Chen Xuee , Liu Xida , Han Na , Liu Zhihui , Li Sikai , Zhai Jianxiu , Yin Jun
Published: December 2020

In the present study, petroleum ether, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, and n-butanol fractions of mango seed kernel exhibited different degrees of antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. Thus, quantitative and qualitative analysis of the petroleum ether fraction was conducted by GC-MS. Among identified components, four unsaturated fatty acids had never been reported in natural products before, together with 19 known components. In addition, 17 compounds were isolated and elucidated from other active fractions. Compounds 2, 9, 15, and 17 were isolated for the first time from Mangifera genus. Compounds 1 and 2 exhibited prominent DPPH radical scavenging and α-glucosidase inhibitory effects. In order to further explore their mechanism of α-glucosidase inhibition, their enzyme kinetics and in silico modeling experiments were performed. The results indicated that 1 inhibited α-glucosidase in a noncompetitive manner, whereas 2 acted in a competitive manner. In molecular docking, the stability of binding was enhanced by π-π T-shaped, π-alkyl, π-π stacked, hydrogen bond, and electrostatic interactions. Thus, compounds 1 and 2 were determined to be new potent antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibitors for preventing food oxidation and enhancing hypoglycemic activity.
Effect of Novel Rhythmic Physical Activities on Fundamental Movement Skills in 3‐ to 5‐Year‐Old Children
Authors: Hu Xin , Jiang Gui-ping , Ji Zhong-qiu , Pang Bo , Liu John
Published: December 2020

Based on traditional rhythmic physical activities (TRPA), we created novel rhythmic physical activities (NRPA). The purpose of this study was to verify the effectiveness of NRPA in improving children’s fundamental movement skills (FMS). 289 children (135 boys, 154 girls) from 3 to 5 years old were randomly divided into an experimental group and a control group. Tools of Test of Gross Motor Development‐2, Tekscan instrument, and balance beam were to assess children’s FMS. Two‐way repeated measures ANOVA was used to analyze and compare the changes in the related parameters of locomotor, manipulative, and balance movement skills before and after intervention (groups × time). NRPA performed significantly better than TRPA from pre‐ to posttest for FMS. Furthermore, NRPA had significantly higher posttest scores than TRPA. Therefore, NRPA could effectively promote the development of children’s FMS due to the concept of the sensitive period of motor development, the variability of movement parameters, and the incomplete repeatability of practice methods.
Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography-Based Morphofunctional Characterization of Dome-Shaped Maculopathy in Indian Population
Authors: Kannan Naresh Babu , Sen Sagnik , Udaya Prithviraj , Ramachandran Obuli , Ramasamy Kim
Published: December 2020

Purpose. To study the clinicodemographic profile of dome-shaped maculopathy (DSM) eyes in the Indian population and characterization using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Methods. This observational cross-sectional study included 25 eyes of 14 patients diagnosed with DSM. All eyes underwent SD-OCT for characterization of the dome profile and also to measure central macular thickness (CMT), subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT), and dome height (DH) and to detect the presence of subretinal fluid (SRF). Results. The mean age of patients was 48.36 ± 14.23 years (range, 28–65 years). Eleven patients had bilateral involvement. Mean axial length of all eyes was 24.25 ± 1.95 mm and mean spherical equivalent −4.23 ± 3.79 DS. Overall, 11/25 eyes (44%) had round domes, 9/25 eyes (36%) had horizontal domes, and 5/25 eyes (20%) had vertical domes, with a mean dome height at fovea of 500.54 ± 291.58 µm. Vertical domes had higher DH compared to horizontal or combined domesp=0.02. Six eyes (6/25, 24%) showed the presence of SRF; 60% of vertical domes had SRF, and 22.2% of horizontal domes had SRF. The eyes having SRF had significantly higher CMTp=0.017and DHp=0.001, especially in horizontal domesp=0.023. The eyes with thicker SFCT tended to have higher DH and poorer visual acuity. Conclusion. Indian DSM eyes may have relatively lesser amounts of myopia. Choroidal thickening may play a role in development of DSM and may also be related to development of subretinal fluid in such eyes.