bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Throughput‐Based Mapping Algorithm for Video Streaming over IEEE 802.11e WLAN
Authors: Lin Cheng-Han , Shieh Ce-Kuen , Hwang Wen-Shyang , Liu Dai-Ying
Published: October 2021

IEEE 802.11e utilizes the Enhanced Distributed Channel Access (EDCA) protocol to provide quality of service (QoS) support over WLANs. However, under EDCA, all video data are allocated to the same access category (AC) queue, irrespective of their coding importance. Consequently, the quality of the transmitted video may be severely degraded under heavy traffic load conditions. The literature contains several queue mapping mechanisms based on the settings of the AC queues, such as contention window size, for improving the video transmission quality over IEEE 802.11e WLANs. However, these mechanisms fail to consider the effect of the dequeuing time on the video delivery performance. Accordingly, the present study proposes a new queue mapping algorithm, designated as the throughput‐based mapping algorithm (TMA), for improving the video transmission quality and reducing the video delay by dynamically allocating the video data packets to different AC queues based on their length and throughput such that the probability of the dequeuing time being reduced is increased. In implementing the proposed approach, the throughputs of the AC queues are analyzed using two Markov chain models. The simulation results show that TMA outperforms previously proposed static and dynamic queue mapping schemes in terms of a reduced AC queue length, an improved PSNR (peak signal‐to‐noise ratio), and a shorter transmission delay.
Neural Network Command Filtered Control of Fractional‐Order Chaotic Systems
Authors: Zhang Hua
Published: October 2021

An adaptive neural network (NN) backstepping control method based on command filtering is proposed for a class of fractional‐order chaotic systems (FOCSs) in this paper. In order to solve the problem of the item explosion in the classical backstepping method, a command filter method is adopted and the error compensation mechanism is introduced to overcome the shortcomings of the dynamic surface method. Moreover, an adaptive neural network method for unknown FOCSs is proposed. Compared with the existing control methods, the advantage of the proposed control method is that the design of the compensation signals eliminates the filtering errors, which makes the control effect of the actual system improve well. Finally, two examples are given to prove the effectiveness and potential of the proposed method.
The Impact of Financial Risks on Financial Investment in Infrastructure: Based on a Two-Factor Stochastic Differential Equation
Authors: Zhang Qiming , Guo Xuemeng , Li Hongchang
Published: October 2021

Financial risks, such as inflation and interest rate changes, significantly affect the costs and benefits of infrastructure projects. Nevertheless, there is a dearth of research concerning financial investment (government subsidies) for infrastructure projects in the context of inflation and interest rate changes. Accordingly, this study builds a stochastic differential equation model based on inflation rate and interest rate, through which the expression of government subsidies in public-private partnership is optimised. Specifically, the Monte Carlo simulation was used to undertake a calculation of the present value of operating loss subsidy and risk-sharing subsidy for the N City Metro Line 3. Subsequently, the effect of inflation, nominal interest rates, interest rate volatility, as well as inflation volatility, on the present value of operating loss subsidies was investigated. It was established that the dynamic random discount rate based on inflation rate and interest rate may effectively simulate the effect of inflation rate and interest rate changes on project operating loss. Moreover, it is feasible to calculate the present value of the risk-adjusted operating loss subsidy and the present value of the risk-sharing subsidy. Inflation rate, inflation volatility, and interest rate volatility are positively correlated with the present value of operating loss subsidies, whereas the interest rate is negatively correlated with the present value of inflation-adjusted operating loss subsidies. Inflation volatility has the greatest effect on the present value of subsidies, followed by interest rate volatility and inflation rate. Ultimately, this paper provides an effective tool for quantitative simulation of and risk-sharing in public-private partnership projects, which can facilitate a regional economy’s sustainable development.
Teaching System of Embedded Mechanical Manufacturing Specialty Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Liu Honghua , Tan WenPing , Gong Jingzhong , Hu Pinghui
Published: October 2021

With the increasing development of electronic computers and the popularization of computer technology, management systems have been widely used in the society. With the continuous improvement of the teaching system, the methods of education and teaching are also quietly changing, especially in the field of higher vocational education. Due to the characteristics of vocational education, it makes “training project progress control” and “teaching resource integration” the teaching requirements of “distribution,” “strictly restricting daily work habits,” “improving professional quality,” and “teachers’ effective control of the quality of students’ personal projects” that have become increasingly urgent needs in vocational colleges. There is a certain gap between the standards and quality of talent training in our country’s applied undergraduate colleges, and the society’s requirements for high-skilled talents and practical teaching in applied undergraduate colleges are a necessary condition for cultivating high-skilled talent. This subject research takes the mechanical manufacturing professional practice teaching system as the research object, conducts in-depth investigation and research in applied undergraduate colleges, explores the status quo of the mechanical manufacturing professional practice teaching system of applied undergraduate colleges, and analyzes the reasons for the problems. In this study, six classes of mechanical manufacturing majors in six applied undergraduate colleges were selected as the experimental group and the control group for comparison. The experimental group adopts an embedded mechanical manufacturing professional teaching system based on deep learning. In daily teaching, the control group used traditional teaching methods to learn. The questionnaire understands the role of the embedded machinery manufacturing professional teaching system in teaching from four aspects: practical teaching curriculum, practical teaching content, practical teaching equipment, and practical teaching teachers. Experiments have proved that more than half of the people think that the teaching effect of the current mechanical manufacturing professional practice teaching courses is average; only 17.18% think that the classroom is good, and 24.36% think that the classroom is poor. This shows that the construction of similar engineering professional practice is in line with the major itself, and the teaching system has theoretical guiding significance, which is conducive to the seamless connection of mechanical manufacturing majors and industrial positions in applied undergraduate colleges; it is conducive to continuously improving the core competitiveness of mechanical manufacturing majors in industrial and applied undergraduate colleges.
Digital Health for Optimal Supportive Care in Oncology: Benefits, Limits, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Aapro Matti , Bossi P. , Dasari A. , Fallowfield L. , Gascón P. , Geller M. , Jordan K. , Kim J. , Martin K. , Porzig S.
Published: October 2021

Background: Digital health provides solutions that capture pa­tient-reported outcomes (PROs) and allows symptom monitoring and patient management. Digital therapeutics is the provision to patients of evidence-based therapeutic interventions through software applications aimed at prevention, monitoring, management, and treatment of symptoms and diseases or for treatment optimization. The digital health solutions collecting PROs address many unmet needs, including access to care and reassurance, increase in adherence and treatment efficacy, and decrease in hospitalizations. With current developments in oncology including increased availability of oral drugs and reduced availability of healthcare professionals, these solutions offer an innovative approach to optimize healthcare resource utilization. Design: This scoping review clarifies the role and impact of the digital health solutions in oncology supportive care, with a view of the current segmentation according to their technical features (connection to sensors, PRO collection, remote monitoring, self-management in real time…), and identifies evidence from clinical studies published about their benefits and limitations and drivers and barriers to adoption. A qualitative summary is presented. Results: Sixty-six studies were identified and included in the qualitative synthesis. Studies supported the use of 38 digital health solutions collecting ePROs and allowing remote monitoring, with benefits to patients regarding symptom reporting and management, reduction in symptom distress, decrease in unplanned hospitalizations and related costs and improved quality of life and survival. Among those 38 solutions 21 provided patient self-management with impactful symptom support, improvement of QoL, usefulness and reassurance. Principal challenges are in developing and implementing digital solutions to suit most patients, while ensuring patient compliance and adaptability for use in different healthcare systems and living environments. Conclusions: There is growing evidence that digital health collecting ePROs provide benefits to patients related to clinical and health economic endpoints. These digital solutions can be integrated into routine supportive care in oncology practice to provide improved patient-centered care.
Deep Vein Thrombosis as an Initial Symptom of Malignant Tumor: A Case Report of Angiosarcoma in the Iliac Vein
Authors: Matsui Takahiro , Nojima Satoshi , Morii Eiichi
Published: October 2021

Although deep vein thrombosis, as well as subsequent pulmonary embolism, is one of the major and fatal complications in cases of malignant neoplasm, it most often occurs after the diagnosis or treatment of the tumor. On the other hand, malignant tumors that develop with deep vein thrombosis as a specific initial symptom are extremely rare. Here, we report a case of angiosarcoma of the iliac vein, whose initial symptom was dyspnea due to pulmonary embolism. Although angiosarcoma arising directly from major blood vessels is rare, literature reviews, as well as our case, indicate that thromboembolism is an important initial symptom related to angiosarcoma from thick blood vessels and may contribute to immediate diagnosis and therapeutic intervention.
Joint Modeling of Longitudinal Markers and Time-to-Event Outcomes: An Application and Tutorial in Patients After Surgical Repair of Transposition of the Great Arteries
Authors: Baart Sara J. , van der Palen Roel L.F. , Putter Hein , Tsonaka Roula , Blom Nico A. , Rizopoulos Dimitris , van Geloven Nan
Published: October 2021

Background:

Most patients with congenital heart disease survive into adulthood; however, residual abnormalities remain and management of the patients is life-long and personalized. Patients with surgical repair of transposition of the great arteries, for example, face the risk to develop neoaortic valve regurgitation. Cardiologists update the prognosis of the patient intuitively with updated information of the cardiovascular status of the patient, for instance from echocardiographic imaging.

Methods:

Usually a time-dependent version of the Cox model is used to analyze repeated measurements with a time-to-event outcome. New statistical methods have been developed with multiple advantages, of which the most prominent one being the joint model for longitudinal and time-to-event outcome. In this tutorial, the joint modeling framework is introduced and applied to patients with transposition of the great arteries after surgery with a long-term follow-up, where repeated echocardiographic values of the neoaortic root are evaluated against the risk of neoaortic valve regurgitation.

Results:

The data are analyzed with the time-dependent Cox model as benchmark method, and the results are compared with a joint model, leading to different conclusions. The flexibility of the joint model is shown by adding the growth rate of the neoaortic root to the model and adding repeated values of body surface area to obtain a multimarker model. Lastly, it is demonstrated how the joint model can be used to obtain personalized dynamic predictions of the event.

Conclusions:

The joint model for longitudinal and time-to-event data is an attractive method to analyze data in follow-up studies with repeated measurements. Benefits of the method include using the estimated natural trajectory of the longitudinal outcome, great flexibility through multiple extensions, and dynamic individualized predictions.
Morphological Characterization of Calcium Phosphate Particles Obtained by Pulsed-Injection Metal Organic Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Méndez-Lozano Néstor , Apátiga-Castro Miguel , Rivera-Muñoz E. M. , Manzano-Ramírez Alejandro , Velázquez-Castillo Rodrigo
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACTAmorphous calcium phosphate particles were synthesized for the first time by the Pulsed Injection Chemical Vapor Deposition technique onto silicon wafers, using Trimethyl Phosphate and Calcium Lactate mixed in a methanol solution as the precursor. The particles were
deposited at a substrate temperature of 500, 550, and 600 °C obtaining the best results at 500 °C in terms of nucleation, density, morphology, and Ca/P ratio. The functional groups and vibrational modes, elemental composition, and surface morphology, were studied using Fourier Transform
Infrared Spectroscopy, Raman Spectroscopy, and X-ray Energy Dispersion Spectrometry, and Scanning Electron Microscopy, respectively. The presence of the phosphate group characteristic of calcium phosphate was also observed. Uniform growth of the microstructures as the growth time and the temperature
of the substrate increases were also observed, together with agglomerates of calcium phosphate in microstructures of 10, 50, and 100 nm in diameter. In these calcium phosphate agglomerates, calcium and phosphorus presence were observed, which is an important feature due to the Ca/P ratio gives
information regarding biocompatibility.
Application of Perfluorooctylbromide Nanoparticles with Ulinastatin for Early Brain Injury Caused by Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Authors: Li Guangcong , Li Dan
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACTThis study aimed to explore the mechanism of perfluorooctylbromide (PFOB) nanoparticles (NPs) combined with ulinastatin (UTI) on early brain injury (EBI) caused by carbon monoxide poisoning (CMP). Firstly, PFOB NPs were prepared by high-speed dispersion and high-speed homogenization. The physicochemical characteristics of the particle size distribution and Zeta potential distribution of the NPs were analyzed using a laser particle size analyzer. The thermal and photoinduced phase transition characteristics of the NPs were analyzed under heating and laser irradiation conditions. Then, 50 Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were deemed as the research objects to establish the CMP rat models using hyperbaric oxygen chambers. According to different treatment methods, they were rolled into a healthy control group, a carbon monoxide (CO) model group, a PTOB treatment group, an UTI treatment group, and a PTOB + UTI treatment group. The brain tissues of each group of rats were collected 3 days after treatment. The neuronal cell apoptosis, expression of Caspase-3, messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) of inflammatory factors interleukin-1β(IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α) in rat brain tissue were detected through immunohistochemical staining,in situcell apoptosis detection, Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and Western blotting, so did the relative expression of target proteins B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), Bcl2-Associated X (Bax) and myelin basic protein (MBP). As a result, the average particle size and the average Zeta potential of the prepared PFOB NPs was 103±31 nm and −23 ± 15 mV, respectively. When the PFOB NPs were heated to 80 °C, the particle size increased greatly and cracks appeared. The particle size of PFOB NPs also increased obviously after laser irradiation, and the PFOB inside the particles changed into gas phase. Compared to CO group, expression of Caspase-3, neuronal cell apoptosis rate, mRNA expression of IL-1βand TNF-α, and protein expression of Bax and Bcl-2 in the brain tissue of PTOB group, UTI group, and PFOB + UTI group were notably decreased (P< 0.05), while the MBP protein expression increased considerably (P< 0.05). Changes in PFOB + UTI group were more obvious than those in PTOB group and UTI group, and those indicators weren’t considerably different from the controls. In summary, PFOB NPs were successfully prepared with favorable phase transition characteristics. Moreover, PFOB NPs combined with UTI could reduce the apoptosis of brain neurons after CMP, improve the inflammatory response, and play a protective effect on EBI of CMP.
Tropical Cyclone Characteristics Represented by the Ocean Wave-Coupled Atmospheric Global Climate Model Incorporating Wave-Dependent Momentum Flux
Authors: Shimura Tomoya , Mori Nobuhito , Urano Daisuke , Takemi Tetsuya , Mizuta Ryo
Published: October 2021

Understanding the systematic characteristics of tropical cyclones (TCs) represented in global climate models (GCMs) is important for reliable climate change impact assessments. The atmospheric GCM (AGCM) and ocean wave models were coupled by incorporating the wave-dependent momentum flux. Systematic impacts of wave-dependent momentum flux on TC characteristics were estimated by analyzing 100 historical TCs that occurred in the western North Pacific Ocean. Wave-dependent momentum flux parameterization considering wind and wave direction misalignment was used for assessing the wave–atmosphere interaction. The larger the wave age and misalignment are, the larger the drag coefficient is. The drag coefficient at the left-hand side of the TC was enhanced by the wave condition. It was found that the wave-dependent momentum flux did not have any impact on peak TC intensity. On the other hand, the wave-dependent momentum flux showed a significant impact on TC development during the early development stage. Although systematic differences in TC intensity at most developed stages were not detected, systematic differences in TC tracks between experiments were observed. The TC tracks of the wave-coupled AGCM tend to pass in a relatively eastward direction in comparison with those from the uncoupled AGCM. This is because the wave-dependent momentum flux in the coupled AGCM altered the environmental steering flow and the smaller beta effect of smaller TC at the early developing stage. Systematic differences in TC tracks have significant impacts on climate change assessments, such as extreme sea level changes in coastal regions due to climate change.
Global Information for Multidimensional Tests
Authors: Jonas Katherine G.
Published: October 2021

New measures of test information, termed global information, quantify test information relative to the entire range of the trait being assessed. Estimating global information relative to a non-informative prior distribution results in a measure of how much information could be gained by administering the test to an unspecified examinee. Currently, such measures have been developed only for unidimensional tests. This study introduces measures of multidimensional global test information and validates them in simulated data. Then, the utility of global test information is tested in neuropsychological data collected as part of Rush University’s Memory and Aging Project. These measures allow for direct comparison of complex tests calibrated in different samples, facilitating test development and selection.
Modeling the Demand for Shared E-Scooter Services
Authors: Orvin Muntahith Mehadil , Bachhal Jashan Kaur , Fatmi Mahmudur Rahman
Published: October 2021

This paper presents the findings on modeling the demand for shared e-scooter services (SES); specifically, spatio-temporal variation of SES demand. A zero-inflated negative binomial (ZINB) model is developed using the count data of trip origins at the dissemination area level from Kelowna, Canada. The motivation for adopting the ZINB model is the presence of excess zeros in the count data. ZINB has two components: the zero-inflated component accounts for excess zeros, and the count component accounts for the over-dispersion characteristics of data resulting from excess zeros. In addition to the ZINB, several other count models including hurdle models are estimated. The goodness-of-fit measures suggest that the ZINB model outperforms other methods. The model results confirm the effects of temporal, weather, transportation infrastructure, land use, and neighborhood characteristics. For example, the count model results reveal that SES demand is more likely to be higher during summer, mid-day on weekends, afternoons of weekdays, and days without rainfall. Furthermore, higher e-scooter index, higher density of cycle tracks, heterogeneous land use, urban centers, lower elevation, and neighborhoods with higher density of hotels and younger population might induce higher demand. The zero component results of the model are consistent with the findings revealed by the count component. The model is validated using a hold-out sample, and the validation results confirm that the prediction performance of the model is reasonably satisfactory. The findings of this study provide important insights into when and where the demand is higher, which will assist in effective policy-making supporting e-scooter use.
Sanctuary in a Trumpist Context: Creating Spaces of Democratic Exception
Authors: Arnold Kathleen R.
Published: October 2021

This paper first identifies the necessity for sanctuary as a form of protest against the discretionary and often absolute forms of power shaping the current immigration system, particularly as it affects undocumented immigrants. Although the plenary power doctrine has removed legal personhood from immigrants at the federal level since the late 1800s, immigrants’ rightlessness and vulnerability to detention and deportation has grown since Trump was elected. It distinguishes between a sanctuary city and church-based sanctuary, holding that the latter fits more ancient conceptions of sanctuary. Faith-based sanctuary is also more radical than sanctuary cities, challenging sovereign power over immigrants who are largely rightless. The discourse of “earned citizenship” holds that undocumented immigrants must make amends to U.S. society and pay back taxes as well as earning the trust of the American public. In contrast, church-based sanctuary exposes the faulty logic of such claims, educating the public about the undocumented individual’s existing ties to the community and his/her contributions. In humanizing the legal non-person, church-based sanctuary practices explode conventional binary between citizen and foreigner, problematizing claims of merit on the one side and lack of deservingness or alien status on the other.
Multiple Immunofluorescence Imaging Analysis Reveals Differential Expression of Disialogangliosides GD3 and GD2 in Neuroblastomas
Authors: Nishimaki Haruna , Nakanishi Yoko , Yagasaki Hiroshi , Masuda Shinobu
Published: October 2021

Background

Peripheral neuroblastic tumors (pNTs) are the most common childhood extracranial solid tumors. There are several therapeutic strategies targeting disialoganglioside GD2. Disialoganglioside GD3 has become a potential target. However, the mechanism by which pNTs express GD3 and GD2 remains unclear. We investigated the combined expression status of GD3 and GD2 in pNTs and delineated their clinicopathological values.

Methods

GD3 and GD2 expression was examined in pNT tissue samples (n = 35) using immunohistochemistry and multiple immunofluorescence imaging.

Results

GD3 and GD2 expression was positive in 32/35 and 25/35 samples, respectively. Combinatorial analysis of GD3 and GD2 expression in neuroblastoma showed that both were heterogeneously expressed from cell to cell. There were higher numbers of GD3-positive and GD2-negative cells in the low-risk group than in the intermediate-risk ( P = 0.014) and high-risk ( P = 0.009) groups. Cases with high proportions of GD3-positive and GD2-negative cells were associated with the International Neuroblastoma Staging System stage ( P = 0.004), Children’s Oncology Group risk group ( P = 0.001), and outcome ( P = 0.019) and tended to have a higher overall survival rate.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that neuroblastomas from low-risk patients included more GD3-positive and GD2-negative cells than those from high-risk patients. Clarifying the heterogeneity of neuroblastoma aids in better understanding the biological characteristics and clinical behavior.
Market fear, investor mood, sentiment, economic uncertainty and tourism sector in the United States amid COVID-19 pandemic: A spillover analysis
Authors: Zargar Faisal Nazir , Kumar Dilip
Published: October 2021

The study investigates and confirms the spillover effects from investor fear, mood, sentiment and uncertainty to the US tourism sector returns. The findings indicate that market fear, investor mood and sentiment are net transmitter of shocks and economic uncertainty and the tourism sector is net receiver of shocks. We also provide evidence that media-hype, infodemic, media-coverage related to COVID-19 and infectious disease equity market volatility impacts the total and directional spillover of information from fear, mood, sentiment and uncertainty to the tourism sector.
What's the problem with disaster? Anthropology, social work, and the qualitative slot
Authors: Holmes Tisha Joseph , Mathias John , McCreary Tyler , Elsner James Brian
Published: October 2021

On March 3, 2019, an EF4 tornado devastated the rural Alabama communities of Beauregard and Smith Station, killing 23 people and causing direct injuries to another 97. This storm was unusually devastating, with twice the predicted casualty rate based on the tornado’s power, the impacted population, and impacted housing stock. In this paper, we apply qualitative methods from anthropology, geography, and planning to better understand the social context of this unusually devastating tornado. Recognizing that there are multiple formulations of the problem of disasters, we aim to highlight how interdisciplinary qualitative research can deepen our understanding of tornado disasters. Combining policy analysis, political economic critique, and ethnographic description, we seek to showcase how qualitative research enables us to interrogate and reimagine the problem of disasters. Rather than simply juxtaposing qualitative and quantitative methods, we emphasize how the heterogeneity of qualitative research methods can strengthen interdisciplinary research projects by generating dialogue about the multiple contexts relevant to understanding a social problem. While problem definition remains a central challenge to establishing a dialogue between anthropology and social work, here, we intend to extend this discussion to larger interdisciplinary collaborations. Situating the issue of problem formation within a broader ecology of qualitative inquiry, we highlight how dialogue about problem definition can, itself, produce meaningful insights into how we understand disasters.
Identifying a cervical cancer survival signature based on mRNA expression and genome-wide copy number variations
Authors: Li Nan , Yu Kai , Lin Zhong , Zeng Dingyuan
Published: October 2021

Cervical cancer mortality is the second highest in gynecological cancers. This study developed a new model based on copy number variation data and mRNA data for overall survival prediction of cervical cancer. Differentially expressed genes from The Cancer Genome Atlas dataset detected by univariate Cox regression analysis were further simplified to six by least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (Lasso) and stepwise Akaike information criterion (stepAIC). The study developed a six-gene signature, which was further verified in independent dataset. Association between immune infiltration and risk score was investigated by immune score. The relation between the signature and functional pathways was examined by gene set enrichment analysis. Ninety-nine differentially expressed genes were detected, and C11orf80, FOXP3, GSN, HCCS, PGAM5, and RIBC2 were identified as key genes to construct a six-gene signature. The prognostic signature showed a significant correlation with overall survival (hazard ratio, HR = 3.45, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.08–5.72, p <  0.00001). Immune score showed a negative correlation with the risk score calculated by the signature ( p <  0.05). Four immune-related pathways were closely associated with risk score ( p <  0.0001). The six-gene prognostic signature was an effective tool to predict overall survival of cervical cancer. In conclusion, the newly identified six genes may be considered as new drug targets for cervical cancer treatment.
TORREY, a Phase 2 study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of inhaled seralutinib for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Frantz Robert P. , Benza Raymond L. , Channick Richard N. , Chin Kelly , Howard Luke S. , McLaughlin Vallerie V. , Sitbon Olivier , Zamanian Roham T. , Hemnes Anna R. , Cravets Matt , Bruey Jean‐Marie , Roscigno Robert , Mottola David , Elman Erin , Zisman Lawrence S. , Ghofrani Hossein‐Ardeschir
Published: October 2021

Aberrant kinase signaling that involves platelet‐derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) α/β, colony stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R), and stem cell factor receptor (c‐KIT) pathways may be responsible for vascular remodeling in pulmonary arterial hypertension. Targeting these specific pathways may potentially reverse the pathological inflammation, cellular proliferation, and fibrosis associated with pulmonary arterial hypertension progression. Seralutinib (formerly known as GB002) is a novel, potent, clinical stage inhibitor of PDGFRα/β, CSF1R, and c‐KIT delivered via inhalation that is being developed for patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension. Here, we report on an ongoing Phase 2 randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial (NCT04456998) evaluating the efficacy and safety of seralutinib in subjects with World Health Organization Group 1 Pulmonary Hypertension who are classified as Functional Class II or III. A total of 80 subjects will be enrolled and randomized to receive either study drug or placebo for 24 weeks followed by an optional 72‐week open‐label extension study. The primary endpoint is the change from baseline to Week 24 in pulmonary vascular resistance by right heart catheterization. The secondary endpoint is the change in distance from baseline to Week 24 achieved in the 6‐min walk test. A computerized tomography sub‐study will examine the effect of seralutinib on pulmonary vascular remodelling. A separate heart rate monitoring sub‐study will examine the effect of seralutinib on cardiac effort during the 6‐min walk test.
Treatment of Intractable Pillar Pain With Excision of the Hook of Hamate
Authors: Robichaux Ben , Watson HKirk , Mastella Daniel , Ashmead Duffield , Gale Andrea , Wollstein Ronit
Published: October 2021

Introduction: A common consequence of carpal tunnel release (CTR) is ulnar palmar pain termed pillar pain. Some (very rare) patients do not improve with conservative treatment. We have been treating recalcitrant pain with excision of hook of the hamate. Our purpose was to evaluate a series of patients undergoing excision of the hook of the hamate for post CTR pillar pain. Methods: A retrospective review of all patients undergoing hook of hamate excisions over a 30-year period was performed. Data collected included: gender, hand dominance, age, time-to-intervention, preoperative and post-operative pain scores, and insurance. Results: Fifteen patients were included with a mean age of 49 (range 18-68) years, 7 female (47%). Twelve (80%) of the patients were right handed. Mean time between CTR and excision hook of hamate was 7.4 months (range 1-18 months). Pain prior to surgery was 5.44 (range 2-10). Post-operative pain was 2.44 (range 0-8). Mean follow-up was 4.7 months (range 1-19 months). Patients with a good clinical outcome were 14 (93%). Conclusions: Excision of hook of hamate seems to provide clinical improvement in patients who remain painful despite exhaustive conservative treatment. It may be considered as a very last resort for persistent pillar pain after CTR.
Koro Presenting in the Prodromal Phase of Schizophrenia in a Patient With Klinefelter Syndrome
Authors: Vaidyanathan Sivapriya , Subramanian Karthick , Menon Vikas
Published: October 2021

Klinefelter syndrome (KS), a disorder of abnormal sexual differentiation, is characterized by the presence of an excess X chromosome in males (47, XXY). KS is associated with various neuropsychiatric manifestations such as anxiety, depression, schizotypy, and frank psychosis. Psychosocial factors including stigma and poor coping or psychobiological comorbidities due to neuroendocrine mechanisms have been posited to explain these symptoms. We report the case of a young male with an anxious temperament who presented with the culture-bound neurosis of Koro, which evolved into schizophrenia. The patient also had gender dysphoria and significant social anxiety. The report highlights the implications of anxious traits leading to developing culture-bound neurosis in the prodromal phase of schizophrenia in a patient with KS and its influence on treatment strategies. Integrated psychopharmacological, psychological, and psychosocial interventions are required to promote recovery in patients with KS.
The midterm effect of exercise capacity and quality of life in adult patients who underwent hybrid transthoracic device closure of ventricular septal defects
Authors: Chen Qiang , Yang Rong , Lei Yu-Qing , Sun Kai-Peng , Cao Hua
Published: October 2021

Objective

To investigate the midterm effect of exercise capacity and quality of life (QoL) of adult patients who underwent transthoracic device closure of ventricular septal defects (VSDs) and explore the gap in the quality of life and cardiopulmonary function between those patients and healthy people.

Methods

From January 2010 to January 2015, 58 adult patients who underwent transthoracic device closure of VSD and 60 healthy people matched for age and sex were selected and analyzed. Echocardiography and exercise capacity tests were performed, and the MOS 36-item short-form health survey (SF-36) was used to investigate the changes in QoL.

Results

Fifty-five patients completed the study. At the 1-year and 5-year follow-ups, the patients’ left ventricular end-systolic and end-diastolic diameters were smaller than those preoperatively, but the difference was not statistically significant. In the QoL survey, the patients’ scores after treatment showed a trend of improvement, and the improvement effect was not transient. After VSD closure, the difference in QoL between the patients and the control group was significantly reduced. However, in the exercise capacity test, the patients’ results were still worse than those of the controls.

Conclusion

Transthoracic device closure of VSDs is significant in improving adult patients’ QoL at the midterm follow-up, reflected in their physical and psychological fields. However, they are still unable to achieve normal levels of peak exercise ability. Therefore, further exploration and interventions are worth considering.
Disease duration of progression is helpful in identifying isolated bulbar palsy of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Zhang Huagang , Chen Lu , Tian Jinzhou , Fan Dongsheng
Published: October 2021

Background

Compared with typical bulbar onset amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), isolated bulbar palsy (IBP), an often under-understood variant of ALS, is characterized by symptoms confined to bulbar region for extended periods and relative preservation of limb and ventilation function. To find a cutoff value of disease duration that can distinguish IBP from typical bulbar onset ALS well, the association of survival with disease progression in bulbar onset ALS patients was analyzed.

Methods

Clinical data of bulbar onset ALS patients were collected from January 2009 to December 2013. The duration from bulbar onset to first significant limb involvement was analyzed by a cutoff point analysis with maximally selected log-rank statistics and dichotomized to categorize patient outcomes. The patients were divided into two groups, the IBP and typical bulbar onset ALS groups, according to the cutoff value. Clinical features were compared.

Results

115 bulbar onset ALS patients were recruited, and the duration from bulbar onset to first significant limb involvement was associated with survival (P < 0.001). The cutoff duration was 20 months. 19 patients were identified as IBP and 96 patients as typical bulbar onset ALS using 20 months as the cutoff duration. Female was more common, limb weakness was less frequent and pure upper motor neuron (UMN) bulbar signs were more frequent in the IBP group than in the typical bulbar onset ALS group (P = 0.047; P = 0.004; P = 0.031). The median survival time of the IBP group was significantly longer than that of the typical bulbar onset ALS group (64 months and 26 months, respectively; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

A cutoff duration of 20 months from bulbar onset to first significant limb involvement may be used to specifically distinguish IBP from typical bulbar onset ALS. IBP was characterized by female predominance, relative preservation of limb function, more pure UMN bulbar signs and a relatively benign prognosis.
Successful repeated uterine artery embolization in postpartum hemorrhage with disseminated intravascular coagulation: a case report and literature review
Authors: Sugai Shunya , Nonaka Taro , Tamegai Kana , Sato Tatsuhiko , Haino Kazufumi , Enomoto Takayuki , Nishijima Koji
Published: October 2021

Background

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a potentially fatal condition requiring urgent and appropriate intervention. Uterine artery embolization (UAE) has a high hemostatic capacity for PPH, but it may fail. Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) has been reported as a risk factor associated with the failure of UAE.

Case presentation

A 37-year-old primigravida with dichorionic diamniotic twins and placenta previa underwent cesarean section. The blood loss during surgery was 4950 mL. Hemostasis was achieved using an intrauterine balloon tamponade device. However, she lost a further 2400 mL of blood 5 h after surgery. We embolized both uterine arteries using gelatin sponges and confirmed hemostasis. She was suffering from DIC and received ample blood transfusions. However, a further 1300 mL of blood was lost 18 h after surgery and we performed repeated UAE, with complete recanalization of the uterine arteries on both sides and re-embolization with gelatin sponges. Her DIC was treated successfully by blood transfusions at this time, and she showed no further bleeding after the repeated UAE.

Conclusions

DIC is a risk factor for the failure of UAE. Repeated UAE may be effective after sufficient improvement of the hematological status in patients with PPH and DIC.
Antiangiogenic antibody BD0801 combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors achieves synergistic antitumor activity and affects the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Xue Liting , Gao Xingyuan , Zhang Haoyu , Tang Jianxing , Wang Qian , Li Feng , Li Xinxin , Yu Xiaohong , Lu Zhihong , Huang Yue , Tang Renhong , Yang Wenqing
Published: October 2021

Background

Signaling through VEGF/VEGFR induces cancer angiogenesis and affects immune cells. An increasing number of studies have recently focused on combining anti-VEGF/VEGFR agents and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) to treat cancer in preclinical and clinical settings. BD0801 is a humanized rabbit anti-VEGF monoclonal antibody in the clinical development stage.

Methods

In this study, the anti-cancer activities of BD0801 and its potential synergistic anti-tumor effects when combined with different immunotherapies were assessed by using in vitro assays and in vivo tumor models. Ex vivo studies were conducted to reveal the possible mechanisms of actions (MOA) underlying the tumor microenvironment modification.

Results

BD0801 showed more potent antitumor activity than bevacizumab, reflected by stronger blockade of VEGF/VEGFR binding and enhanced inhibitory effects on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). BD0801 exhibited dose-dependent tumor growth inhibitory activities in xenograft and murine syngeneic tumor models. Notably, combining BD0801 with either anti-PD-1 or anti-PD-L1 antibodies showed synergistic antitumor efficacy in both lung and colorectal cancer mouse models. Furthermore, the mechanistic studies suggested that the MOA of the antitumor synergy involves improved tumor vasculature normalization and enhanced T-cell mediated immunity, including increased tumor infiltration of CD8+ and CD4+ T cells and reduced double-positive CD8+PD-1+ T cells.

Conclusions

These data provide a solid rationale for combining antiangiogenic agents with immunotherapy for cancer treatment and support further clinical development of BD0801 in combination with ICIs.
Social and environmental risk factors for unintentional suffocation among infants in China: a descriptive analysis
Authors: Yu Xue , Miao Lei , Zhu Jun , Liang Juan , Dai Li , Li Xiaohong , Li Qi , Rao Rui , Yuan Chunhua , Wang Yanping , He Chunhua , Kang Leni
Published: October 2021

Background

This retrospective study aimed to determine the epidemiological features of deaths caused by unintentional suffocation among infants in China.

Methods

The data used in this study were obtained from China’s Under 5 Child Mortality Surveillance System (U5CMSS) from October 1, 2015, to September 30, 2016. A total of 377 children under 1 year of age who died from unintentional suffocation were included in the survey. Primary caregivers were interviewed individually using the Unintentional Suffocation Mortality among Children under 5 Questionnaire. EpiData was used to establish the database, and the results were analysed using SPSS 22.0.

Results

Most (85.9%) unintentional infant suffocations occurred in rural areas, and 67.5% occurred in infants 0 to 3 months old. Among the primary caregivers of the infants, most (82.7%) had a junior middle school education or below, and 83.1% of them lacked unintentional suffocation first aid skills. Of the 377 unintentional suffocated-infant deaths, the causes of death were accidental suffocation and strangulation in bed (ASSB) (193, 51.2%), inhalation suffocation (154, 40.8%), other unintentional suffocation (6, 1.6%), and unknown (24, 6.4%). Among the infant deaths due to ASSB, overlaying (88.6%) was the most frequently reported circumstance. A total of 93.8% of cases reported occurred during co-sleeping/bed sharing with parents, and in 72.8% of the cases, the infants were covered with the same quilt as their parents. In our study, most inhalation suffocation deaths (88.3%) involved liquid food (such as breast milk and formula milk). A total of 80.5% of infant deaths reportedly occurred after eating; in 28.2% of those cases, the infants were held upright and patted by their caregivers, and 57.2% of them were laid down to sleep immediately after eating.

Conclusions

To reduce the occurrence of unintentional suffocation, local government should strengthen knowledge and awareness of unintentional suffocation prevention and safety among parents and caregivers. Additionally, health care providers should educate parents and caregivers about safety issues of unintentional suffocation, and relevant policies should be introduced to provide environments and activities that reduce the risk of suffocation, such as promoting the Safe to Sleep Campaign. It is important to enhance the focus on infant unintentional suffocation as a health issue.
A psychometric assessment of a network social capital scale among sexual minority men and gender minority individuals
Authors: Zarwell Meagan , Walsh Jennifer L. , Quinn Katherine G. , Kaniuka Andréa , Patton Alexandra , Robinson William T. , Cramer Robert J.
Published: October 2021

Background

Social capital, the potential for individuals to access resources through group memberships, is linked to a constellation of health outcomes. We modified a previously evaluated Constructed Family Social Capital Scale for gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men who belong to constructed families to create a new measure of social capital within sexual minority men and gender minority individuals’ social networks.

Methods

Participants were recruited from a Pride festival in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 2018 to complete a cross-sectional survey. This analysis is restricted to 383 participants who identified as sexual minority men or gender minority individuals and completed nine items measuring social capital within their social networks. We conducted exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses to assess factor structure. Internal consistency was measured using Cronbach’salpha.

Results

Reliability was high, indicating the scale’s utility to assess Network Social Capital among sexual minority men and gender minority individuals. A single-factor solution with high factor loadings was found for the nine-item scale.

Conclusions

This study extended the psychometric properties of a preliminary social capital instrument modified from a prior study in a different population and context. The modified measure has implications for use among sexual minority men and gender minority individuals to measure social capital within social networks. Previous studies suggest that interventions to enhance social capital among sexual minority men and gender minority individuals may be beneficial for HIV prevention interventions. This tool may be relevant for the evaluation of social capital interventions within networks of sexual minority men and gender minority individuals.
Targeting strategies for oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy: clinical syndrome, molecular basis, and drug development
Authors: Yang Yang , Zhao Bing , Gao Xuejiao , Sun Jinbing , Ye Juan , Li Jun , Cao Peng
Published: October 2021

Oxaliplatin (OHP)-induced peripheral neurotoxicity (OIPN) is a severe clinical problem and potentially permanent side effect of cancer treatment. For the management of OIPN, accurate diagnosis and understanding of significant risk factors including genetic vulnerability are essential to improve knowledge regarding the prevalence and incidence of OIPN as well as enhance strategies for the prevention and treatment of OIPN. The molecular mechanisms underlying OIPN are complex, with multi-targets and various cells causing neuropathy. Furthermore, mechanisms of OIPN can reinforce each other, and combination therapies may be required for effective management. However, despite intense investigation in preclinical and clinical studies, no preventive therapies have shown significant clinical efficacy, and the established treatment for painful OIPN is limited. Duloxetine is the only agent currently recommended by the American Society of Clinical Oncology. The present article summarizes the most recent advances in the field of studies on OIPN, the overview of the clinical syndrome, molecular basis, therapy development, and outlook of future drug candidates. Importantly, closer links between clinical pain management teams and oncology will advance the effectiveness of OIPN treatment, and the continued close collaboration between preclinical and clinical research will facilitate the development of novel prevention and treatments for OIPN.