bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pore Structure of Oil Shale Heated by Using Conduction and Microwave Radiation: A Case Study of Oil Shale from the Fushun in China
Authors: Cheng Yao , Lin Shan , Ma Yulin
Published: June 2022

To examine the evolution of the internal pore structure of and the law of changes in oil shale under different heating modes but at the same temperature, this study subjected

φ
20
 
mm
×
20
 
mm

specimens of oil shale to temperatures in the range of 20°C ~500°C by using a muffle furnace and a microwave pyrolysis device. We carried out experiments on the pyrolysis reaction under different temperatures and used scanning electron microscopy, backscattering, the mercury intrusion test, and MATLAB for a refined characterization of the specimens. The results showed that the microwave pyrolysis of oil shale was much shorter than its conduction-induced heating. As the microwave power increased, the time required to reach the target temperature decreased. The phenomenon of “hole blocking” was observed at 400°C ~500°C during conduction-based heating but did not occur in the microwave pyrolysis of oil shale. The porosity of oil shale heated by conduction was 3.4 times higher than its original porosity, whereas that of oil shale heated by microwave radiation was 4.9 times higher than its original value. It can be seen that compared with conduction heating, radiant heating makes the pyrolysis of organic matter in oil shale more complete. During the pyrolysis process of oil shale, the complete reaction of organic matter causes the thermal fracture of the oil shale to produce a large number of pores and interconnected cracks. Thereby, a seepage channel for pyrolysis gas and oil is formed, and the recovery rate of oil and gas is increased.
Development Policy of the International Trade Industry under the Background of Cloud Computing and Internet of Things
Authors: Wu Liang , Zhou Jianhua , Tang Honglei , Xiao Hanjie
Published: June 2022

With the continuous development of Internet technology, new opportunities and challenges have emerged in international trade. If it does not seize new opportunities and take measures to meet challenges, it will cause the development of international trade to enter a state of stagnation, especially when the current domestic demand has not shown a strong recovery. The emergence of cloud computing and the Internet of Things (CCIoT) has provided new technologies and means for the development of international trade. In order to accurately analyze the development policy of the international trade industry and provide strong technical support for the development of the international trade industry under the Internet of Things environment, this paper studies the development policy of the international trade industry in the context of CCIoT. This paper borrows the method of cloud computing and collects relevant data provided by development policies through the perception Internet layer. It is transmitted through the network layer, processed through the high-performance computing cloud, and finally transformed into useful information for the international trade industry. The test results show that the use of cloud computing technology can analyze the existing development policies, promote the development of the international trade industry, and improve the trade efficiency by 3.84%. This reduces the impact of various factors on international trade, while providing strong and good services to users in international trade.
The Effect of Bit Depth on High-Temperature Digital Image Correlation Measurements
Authors: Jarrett Steven R. , Thai Thinh Q. , Rowley Lindsey J. , Craig Weston D. , Berke Ryan B.
Published: June 2022

Digital Image Correlation (DIC) is a camera-based method of measuring displacement and strain. High-temperature DIC is challenging due to light emitted from the sample which can saturate the image. This effect can be mitigated using optical bandpass filters, but the maximum sample temperature range of DIC remains dependent on the camera and camera settings. Among camera settings, bit depth, also referred to as color depth or number of bits, has received insufficient attention in high-temperature DIC literature. In this work, the effect of bit depth on DIC measurements is investigated both analytically and experimentally. It is shown that if image noise is sufficiently low, then increasing bit depth reduces DIC random error. A new metric, the effective number of bits, is presented to determine the appropriate number of bits for DIC images. Using increased bit depth, reduced exposure time, and low-noise images, the maximum sample temperature for DIC measurements was shown to increase without negatively impacting random error.
Application of Graphic Design with Computer Graphics and Image Processing: Taking Packaging Design of Agricultural Products as an Example
Authors: Xie Tianhe , Sun Rongyi , Zhang Jiahao , Wang Ruiqi , Wang Jiashu
Published: June 2022

With development of economy, all industries have undergone earthshaking changes. Various new technologies are starting to be employed in all aspects of life, and graphic design is no exception. The use of computer graphics and image processing technologies in graphic design can substantially improve design efficiency and make graphic design job more convenient to develop. The requirements for the quality of graphic design are higher. Quality inspection has become a necessary step in the production process, in which the detection of graphic design defects is an indispensable and important link. The traditional graphic design defect detection adopts the method of manual visual inspection, which has the disadvantages of poor stability, long consumption time, and high labor cost. As an efficient computer graphics and image processing technology, convolutional neural network has received extensive attention in graphic design defect detection because of its advantages of high speed, efficiency, and high degree of automation. Taking agricultural product packaging as an example, this paper studies application technology for graphic design defect detection with convolutional neural network (CNN). The main contents are as follows: construct the original YOLOv3 network model, input the graphic design images of agricultural product packaging into the network model in batches according to the computing power of the hardware equipment, train the YOLOv3 network, and deeply study and analyze the experimental results. The related improvement techniques are then given, based on the characteristics of agricultural product packaging design faults. The backbone network, multiscale feature map, a priori frame, and activation function of YOLOv3 are improved, and then performance of the improved model is verified by experiments.
Data-Driven Image Interaction-Based Software Infrastructure for Graphic Design Research and Implementation
Authors: Chu Fufeng , Li Wentao
Published: June 2022

This article constructs and studies a graphic design software model based on data-driven image interactions. The semantic information of image interaction is integrated into the framework of the augmented reality label placement algorithm. A new feature map, Guidance Map, is proposed to combine image saliency information with semantic information in the task scenario, accurately describing the importance of different regions in the user’s field of view to derive a more reasonable label placement strategy. This database is different from other label placement algorithms that only use data-driven saliency detection. This paper proposes a data-driven augmented reality labeling method, which first presents the design requirements for augmented reality scene labeling placement, then designs the energy function for augmented reality scene characteristics, transforms the labeling placement problem into an optimization problem, and solves it. This paper proposes a feature representation form oriented to pixels, elements, interelement relationships, planes, and applications and quantifies the geometric features, perceptual features, and stylistic features in them. The model can fit the probability density distribution of the parts to predict the optimal element placement and element color under the target conditions.
Designing and Implementing a Terminal Platform to Manage and Detect the Health of Exercise Parameters Based on Internet Objects
Authors: Bai Xi
Published: June 2022

In order to realize the research on vital signs monitoring based on the Internet of things, in view of the urgent needs for mobile health and universal medical treatment in China, this paper puts forward the platform design and implementation of exercise parameter health management and detection terminal based on the Internet of things. Firstly, the overall architecture of the exercise heart rate monitoring system is designed, and the design of the heart rate acquisition module is also put forward, in order to monitor human heart rate data conveniently, quickly, and in real time, considering the portability and low power consumption of the system, a wearable heart rate real-time monitoring system is designed in this paper. The experimental results show that the maximum individual average heart rate difference is 4.11 bpm and the overall average heart rate difference is 2.24 bpm. After processing with the adaptive hybrid filtering algorithm, the maximum individual average heart rate difference is 0.69 bpm, and the overall average heart rate difference is 0.42 bpm. The average standard deviation of the difference between the 10 groups of measured values and reference values with and without the filtering algorithm is 0.304 and 2.788, respectively, which is about 9 times higher. The accuracy and stability of the filtering algorithm are greatly improved. The whole system can run well and can be applied to practical sports training guidance.
Research on Nanoeffect of Penetration and Consolidation under Nonlinear Characteristics of Saturated Soft Clay
Authors: Zhao Yu , Wang Ning , Zhang Deying
Published: June 2022

In order to systematically study the nanopermeability properties of saturated soft clay under different consolidation pressures and different osmotic pressures, this paper analyzes various loading and unloading conditions that affect the permeability of soil based on the material description equation with displacement as the control variable of large deformation consolidation theory. By summarizing the empirical relationship between permeability coefficient and consolidation pressure and permeability coefficient and void ratio, the infiltration law and seepage failure characteristics of soft clay are revealed. For the soil studied in this paper, a = 0.65, b = 0.001, and q = 3.55 are acceptable. The effect of the initial permeability coefficient on large deformation consolidation is studied, and the necessity and plausibility of considering the nonlinearity of the compression and permeability coefficient when calculating the soft-land base large deformation consolidation is also studied.
Lymphangioma of the Lower Lip—A Diagnostic Dilemma: Report of a Rare Case with a Brief Literature Review
Authors: Hasan Shamimul , Ahmad Syed Ansar , Kaur Mandeep , Panigrahi Rajat , Panda Swagatika
Published: June 2022

Hamartomas are tumor-like deformities typified by cellular propagation indigenous to the original site, although they display growth arrest without the possibility for further growth. Various hamartomatous oral lesions include hemangiomas, lymphangiomas, nevi, odontomas, Cherubism, etc. Lymphangiomas are benign, developmental hamartomatous entities typified by abnormal proliferation of lymphatic vessels. They are usually congenital, and more than 90% of cases occur by 2 years of age, with a rare occurrence in adults. They have a site affinity for the head and neck, and oral lesions are relatively uncommon. The dorsum of the tongue is the commonest oral site of predilection; however, the lip is a rare site of involvement. Hereby, we present an uncommon case of lymphangioma of the lower lip in a 45-year-old male patient, who reported to our hospital with an asymptomatic lower lip submucosal mass present for the last 3 years. Our case is unique as it occurred on the lower lip of a 45-year-old male. A detailed history and clinical evaluation, ultrasonography, and histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of lymphangioma.
Characteristics of Summer Precipitation in Chongqing Based on Hourly Rain Gauges Data
Authors: Liu Yi , Zhang Yaping , Zhang Jianping , Li Yonghua , Zhai Danhua , Luo Fang , Zhang Yong , Zhou Guobing
Published: June 2022

Based on the hourly precipitation data of 34 meteorological stations in Chongqing in the summers (June to August) from 1996 to 2015, the spatial distribution and daily variation of precipitation amount (PA), precipitation intensity (PI), precipitation frequency (PF), and precipitation extremes in Chongqing are analyzed. The results show that, from the perspective of spatial distribution, the precipitation amount (PA) in Chongqing presents a distribution pattern of more around and less in the middle; the area with high precipitation intensity (PI) is mainly located in the northeast of Chongqing; the large value centers of precipitation frequency (PF) are located in the south and west of Chongqing and near Chengkou. On the spatial distribution of hourly precipitation, the precipitation in most areas of Chongqing is mainly concentrated at night [0200–0900 BT (1800–0100 UTC)], and the rain belt spreads from west to east with the passage of time. On the whole, interannual evolution characteristics of summer precipitation amount, precipitation intensity, and precipitation frequency in Chongqing are basically the same, showing a fluctuation characteristic without obvious trend, but there are some peaks and valleys. From the perspective of diurnal cycle, a larger peak of PA in Chongqing appears near 0300 BT (1900 UTC), another lower peak around 1200 BT (0400 UTC), a larger peak of PI around 0300 BT (1900 UTC), another smaller peak around 1500 BT (0700 UTC), and only one peak of PF around 0700 BT (2300 UTC). The extreme precipitation of different duration in summer in Chongqing is closely related to the topographic characteristics and weather system, the extreme centers of each diachronic precipitation are mainly located near Shapingba, Kaizhou, Youyang, and Shizhu, and the time evolution characteristics of the extreme precipitation are not obvious, but the trend of the extreme precipitation accumulated in 1 h, 3 h, 6 h, or 12 h is basically the same.
Teacher Allocation and Evaluation Based on Fuzzy C-Means Clustering
Authors: Li Zhonghong , Chen Suming , Pei Ling , Chu Jian , Song Jun
Published: June 2022

As an important resource in the education industry, teachers play a key role in promoting the high quality of education. In order to explore the overall level of the teaching staff in various regions of China and the allocation level of teachers’ educational resources, this paper selects the data or proportion of the student-teacher ratio, teachers’ educational background, and teachers’ professional titles as indicators. The clustering algorithm based on Fuzzy C-means conducts a cluster analysis on the allocation of compulsory education teachers in 31 provinces in China. The allocation of teachers in 31 provinces is divided into four categories, and the analysis and evaluation are carried out. At the same time, according to the current situation of teacher allocation in compulsory education, relevant countermeasures and suggestions are put forward to improve the overall balanced development of teacher allocation in China and narrow the gap of teacher allocation in China, in order to promote the balanced development of teacher allocation in compulsory education.
Role of Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation in Pain and Pulmonary Function in Patients after Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Luchesa Cesar Antonio , Lopes Agnaldo José
Published: June 2022

Background. Changes in lifestyle, a carbohydrate-rich diet, and decreased physical activity are part of the context that led to an obesity pandemic. Treating obesity is a task that requires multidisciplinary care; however, in many cases, conventional therapy has no effect, requiring surgical intervention. This, in turn, is not without risks and causes important changes in lung function. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of electroanalgesia through conventional transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) on the pain and lung function in the postoperative period of bariatric surgery. Methods. This is a controlled and blinded clinical trial with 66 subjects who underwent bariatric surgery. The participants were randomized into 2 groups as follows: an intervention group treated with TENS (

n
=
33

) and a placebo group (

n
=
33

). The participants underwent 4 TENS sessions, and the effect on pain was assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS pain). Lung function was measured by spirometry. Results. There were no differences between the 2 groups regarding time of surgery and time of mechanical ventilation. Compared to placebo, TENS reduced pain in the intervention group (

p
=
0.001

). Regarding the effect of electroanalgesia on pulmonary function, the spirometric parameters were similar between the groups. However, regarding muscle strength between the preoperative and postoperative periods, maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) was maintained in the intervention group and decreased in the placebo group (

p
=
0.03

). Compared with that in the intervention group, the respiratory rate in the placebo group increased during the application of TENS (

p
=
0.003

). Conclusion. Electroanalgesia reduces pain in patients who underwent bariatric surgery. Importantly, in these patients, the MIP is maintained between the preoperative and postoperative periods. However, electroanalgesia does not contribute to improvements in spirometric data. This trial is registered with NCT04800640.
Visualization of Football Tactics with Deep Learning Models
Authors: Zuo Xin
Published: June 2022

In the last several years, computer vision tasks involving visual identification and tracking have seen a rise in the usage of deep learning technologies in recent years. An extremely difficult but rewarding endeavor is identifying and following football players’ targets. This may be used to study football tactical visualization. Due to the similar appearance and frequent occlusion of targets in football video, traditional methods often can only segment targets such as players and balls in the image but cannot track them or can only track them for a short time. Based on the related research of computer vision and deep learning, using several cameras, this study develops a system that can properly monitor many targets in a football stadium for a lengthy period of time. The main research contents of this paper are as follows: (1) a CNN for target displacement prediction is proposed, which no longer relies on the previous linear motion model or quadratic motion model, so that the multitarget tracking algorithm can be applied to more scenes. (2) For the first time in a multitarget tracking algorithm, a continuous conditional random field is used to model the asymmetric nature of the target relationship. At the same time, the CNN for target displacement prediction can be cascaded with the continuous conditional random field for end-to-end training, which greatly reduces the training difficulty. The parameters of the experiment in this paper are simple, and comprehensive and systematic experiments verify the validity and correctness of this work from different aspects.
A Multi-State Survival Model for Time to Breast Cancer Mortality among a Cohort of Initially Disease-Free Women
Authors: Rosner Bernard , Glynn Robert J. , Eliassen A. Heather , Hankinson Susan E. , Tamimi Rulla M. , Chen Wendy Y. , Holmes Michelle D. , Mu Yi , Peng Cheng , Colditz Graham A. , Willett Walter C. , Tworoger Shelley S.
Published: June 2022

Background:

Identifying risk factors for aggressive forms of breast cancer is important. Tumor factors (e.g., stage) are important predictors of prognosis, but may be intermediates between prediagnosis risk factors and mortality. Typically, separate models are fit for incidence and mortality postdiagnosis. These models have not been previously integrated to identify risk factors for lethal breast cancer in cancer-free women.

Methods:

We combined models for breast cancer incidence and breast cancer–specific mortality among cases into a multi-state survival model for lethal breast cancer. We derived the model from cancer-free postmenopausal Nurses’ Health Study women in 1990 using baseline risk factors. A total of 4,391 invasive breast cancer cases were diagnosed from 1990 to 2014 of which 549 died because of breast cancer over the same period.

Results:

Some established risk factors (e.g., family history, estrogen plus progestin therapy) were not associated with lethal breast cancer. Controlling for age, the strongest risk factors for lethal breast cancer were weight gain since age 18: > 30 kg versus ± 5 kg, RR = 1.94 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.38–2.74], nulliparity versus age at first birth (AAFB) < 25, RR = 1.60 (95% CI = 1.16–2.22), and current smoking ≥ 15 cigarettes/day versus never, RR = 1.42 (95% CI = 1.07–1.89).

Conclusions:

Some breast cancer incidence risk factors are not associated with lethal breast cancer; other risk factors for lethal breast cancer are not associated with disease incidence.

Impact:

This multi-state survival model may be useful for identifying prediagnosis factors that lead to more aggressive and ultimately lethal breast cancer.
Extended Human Papillomavirus Genotyping to Predict Progression to High-Grade Cervical Precancer: A Prospective Cohort Study in the Southeastern United States
Authors: Bukowski Alexandra , Hoyo Cathrine , Hudgens Michael G. , Brewster Wendy R. , Valea Fidel , Bentley Rex C. , Vidal Adriana C. , Maguire Rachel L. , Schmitt John W. , Murphy Susan K. , North Kari E. , Smith Jennifer S.
Published: June 2022

Background:

High-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) testing is utilized in primary cervical cancer screening, generally along with cytology, to triage abnormalities to colposcopy. Most screening-based hrHPV testing involves pooled detection of any hrHPV or of HPV16/18. Cervical neoplasia progression risks based on extended hrHPV genotyping—particularly non-16/18 hrHPV types—are not well characterized. HPV genotype-specific incidence of high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia or more severe (CIN2+) following an abnormal screening result was examined.

Methods:

We assessed a US-based prospective, multiracial, clinical cohort of 343 colposcopy patients with normal histology (n = 226) or CIN1 (n = 117). Baseline cervical samples underwent HPV DNA genotyping, and participants were followed up to 5 years. Genotype-specific CIN2+ incidence rates (IR) were estimated with accelerated failure time models. Five-year CIN2+ risks were estimated nonparametrically for hierarchical hrHPV risk groups (HPV16; else HPV18/45; else HPV31/33/35/52/58; else HPV39/51/56/59/68).

Results:

At enrollment, median participant age was 30.1 years; most (63%) were hrHPV-positive. Over follow-up, 24 participants progressed to CIN2+ (7.0%). CIN2+ IR among hrHPV-positive participants was 3.4/1,000 person-months. CIN2+ IRs were highest for HPV16 (8.3), HPV33 (7.8), and HPV58 (4.9). Five-year CIN2+ risk was higher for HPV16 (0.34) compared with HPV18/45 (0.12), HPV31/33/35/52/58 (0.12), and HPV39/51/56/59/68 (0.16) (P = 0.05).

Conclusions:

Non-16/18 hrHPV types are associated with differential CIN2+ progression rates. HPV16, 33, and 58 exhibited the highest rates over 5 years. HPV risk groups warrant further investigation in diverse US populations.

Impact:

These novel data assessing extended HPV genotyping in a diverse clinical cohort can inform future directions to improve screening practices in the general population.
Mechanisms for the Sex-Specific Effect ofH. Pylorion Risk of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and Barrett's Esophagus
Authors: Wang Sabrina E. , Dashti S. Ghazaleh , Hodge Allison M. , Dixon-Suen Suzanne C. , Castaño-Rodríguez Natalia , Thomas Robert J.S. , Giles Graham G. , Milne Roger L. , Boussioutas Alex , Kendall Bradley J. , English Dallas R.
Published: June 2022

Background:

Mechanisms for how Helicobacter pylori infection affects risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and Barrett's esophagus are incompletely understood and might differ by sex.

Methods:

In a case–control study nested in the Melbourne Collaborative Cohort Study with 425 GERD cases and 169 Barrett's esophagus cases (identified at 2007–2010 follow-up), we estimated sex-specific odds ratios for participants who were H. pylori seronegative versus seropositive at baseline (1990–1994). To explore possible mechanisms, we (i) compared patterns of H. pylori-induced gastritis by sex using serum pepsinogen-I and gastrin-17 data and (ii) quantified the effect of H. pylori seronegativity on Barrett's esophagus mediated by GERD using causal mediation analysis.

Results:

For men, H. pylori seronegativity was associated with 1.69-fold [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.03–2.75] and 2.28-fold (95% CI, 1.27–4.12) higher odds of GERD and Barrett's esophagus, respectively. No association was observed for women. H. pylori-induced atrophic antral gastritis was more common in men (68%) than in women (56%; P = 0.015). For men, 5 of the 15 per 1,000 excess Barrett's esophagus risk from being seronegative were mediated by GERD.

Conclusions:

Men, but not women, who were H. pylori seronegative had increased risks of GERD and Barrett's esophagus. A possible explanation might be sex differences in patterns of H. pylori-induced atrophic antral gastritis, which could lead to less erosive reflux for men. Evidence of GERD mediating the effect of H. pylori on Barrett's esophagus risk among men supports this proposed mechanism.

Impact:

The findings highlight the importance of investigating sex differences in the effect of H. pylori on risk of GERD and Barrett's esophagus in future studies.
Comparison of Carcinogen Biomarkers in Smokers of Menthol and Nonmenthol Cigarettes: The 2015–2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey Special Sample
Authors: Lin Wenxue , Zhu Junjia , Hayes John E. , Richie John P. , Muscat Joshua E.
Published: June 2022

Background:

The US FDA announced its commitment to prohibiting menthol as a characterizing flavor in tobacco. The relationship between cigarette menthol and exposure to toxic substances in mainstream tobacco smoke is not well characterized.

Methods:

Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2015 to 2016 special sample were used to study markers of 26 harmful and potentially harmful constituents (HPHC) in tobacco smoke. These include urine metabolites of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), volatile organic compounds (VOC), and heavy metals in exclusive menthol (n = 162) and nonmenthol (n = 189) cigarette smokers. Urine metabolites of 7 PAHs, 15 VOCs, and 4 heavy metal biomarkers were compared by menthol status. Multivariable analyses were conducted on creatinine-adjusted concentrations.

Results:

There were no significant differences in cotinine levels or in 22 of 26 HPHCs. Among the urine metabolites of PAHs, the levels of 1-hydroxyphenanthrene were about 16% lower in menthol smokers. Among the urine metabolites of VOCs, menthol cigarette smokers presented significantly lower concentrations of acrylamide, N,N-dimethylformamide, and acrylonitrile. Menthol and nonmenthol smokers presented similar levels of heavy metals. Menthol did not affect the levels of cotinine and the nicotine metabolite ratio in urine.

Conclusions:

Menthol and nonmenthol cigarettes deliver similar levels of most HPHCs.

Impact:

Findings on toxicity are similar for menthol and nonmenthol cigarettes.
Weight Loss and/or Sulindac Mitigate Obesity-associated Transcriptome, Microbiome, and Protumor Effects in a Murine Model of Colon Cancer
Authors: Bowers Laura W. , Glenny Elaine M. , Punjala Arunima , Lanman Nadia A. , Goldbaum Audrey , Himbert Caroline , Montgomery Stephanie A. , Yang Peiying , Roper Jatin , Ulrich Cornelia M. , Dannenberg Andrew J. , Coleman Michael F. , Hursting Stephen D.
Published: June 2022

Obesity is associated with an increased risk of colon cancer. Our current study examines whether weight loss and/or treatment with the NSAID sulindac suppresses the protumor effects of obesity in a mouse model of colon cancer. Azoxymethane-treated male FVB/N mice were fed a low-fat diet (LFD) or high-fat diet (HFD) for 15 weeks, then HFD mice were randomized to remain on HFD (obese) or switch to LFD [formerly obese (FOb-LFD)]. Within the control (LFD), obese, and FOb-LFD groups, half the mice started sulindac treatment (140 ppm in the diet). All mice were euthanized 7 weeks later. FOb-LFD mice had intermediate body weight levels, lower than obese but higher than control (P < 0.05). Sulindac did not affect body weight. Obese mice had greater tumor multiplicity and burden than all other groups (P < 0.05). Transcriptomic profiling indicated that weight loss and sulindac each modulate the expression of tumor genes related to invasion and may promote a more antitumor immune landscape. Furthermore, the fecal microbes Coprobacillus, Prevotella, and Akkermansia muciniphila were positively correlated with tumor multiplicity and reduced by sulindac in obese mice. Coprobacillus abundance was also decreased in FOb-LFD mice. In sum, weight loss and sulindac treatment, alone and in combination, reversed the effects of chronic obesity on colon tumor multiplicity and burden. Our findings suggest that an investigation regarding the effects of NSAID treatment on colon cancer risk and/or progression in obese individuals is warranted, particularly for those unable to achieve moderate weight loss.

Prevention Relevance:

Obesity is a colon cancer risk and/or progression factor, but the underlying mechanisms are incompletely understood. Herein we demonstrate that obesity enhances murine colon carcinogenesis and expression of numerous tumoral procancer and immunosuppressive pathways. Moreover, we establish that weight loss via LFD and/or the NSAID sulindac mitigate procancer effects of obesity.
Catchment Areas, Community Outreach and Engagement Revisited: The 2021 Guidelines for Cancer Center Support Grants from the National Cancer Institute
Authors: Hiatt Robert A. , Kobetz Erin N. , Paskett Electra D.
Published: June 2022

New guidelines for Cancer Center Support Grants have recently been issued by the NCI that require increased attention to cancer center catchment areas and their community outreach and engagement activities [PAR-21–321]. Past experience with these requirements has engendered some confusion and frustration on the part of both researchers and reviewers that these new guidelines aim to dispel. In this commentary we, as experienced cancer center leaders in population sciences, offer our views on the most important aspects of the new guidelines and provide three examples of the kinds of programs that can apply cancer prevention and control research to improve cancer population health. With 71 NCI-Designated Cancer Centers in 36 states, the potential for broad impact on the reduction of the nation's cancer burden is enormous if the intended application of cancer center research to individuals and populations is fulfilled.
Enrollment Matters: The Reality of Disparity and Pursuit of Equity in Clinical Trials
Authors: Winn Robert A.
Published: June 2022

Disparities in clinical trial enrollment persist, fortified by the foundation and historical ideologies undergirding clinical cancer research. The scientific community has an ethical responsibility to seize the current moment to deconstruct and reconstruct these paradigms for more equitable research.
The Prognostic Impact of PD-L2 in Papillary Renal-Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Mondorf Yvonne , Mikuteit Marie , Ivanyi Philipp , Stöhr Christine , Herrmann Edwin , Polifka Iris , Agaimy Abbas , Trojan Lutz , Ströbel Philipp , Becker Frank , Wülfing Christian , Barth Peter , Stöckle Michael , Staehler Michael , Stief Christian G. , Haferkamp Axel , Hohenfellner Markus , Macher-Göppinger Stephan , Wullich Bernd , Noldus Joachim , Brenner Walburgis , Roos Frederik C. , Walter Bernhard , Otto Wolfgang , Burger Maximilian , Schrader Andres Jan , Hartmann Arndt , Steffens Sandra , Erlmeier Franziska
Published: June 2022

Introduction: Programmed death-1 ligand (PD-L1) has been often studied in different types of renal-cell carcinoma (RCC). For example, in clear-cell renal carcinoma it is well established that programmed death-1 receptor and PD-L1 are important prognostic markers. In contrast, the role of programmed death-2 ligand (PD-L2) as prognostic marker remains unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate if PD-L2 expression could play a role as a prognostic marker for papillary RCC (pRCC). Methods: The patients’ sample collection was a joint collaboration of the PANZAR consortium. Patients’ medical history and tumor specimens were collected from n = 240 and n = 128 patients with type 1 and 2 pRCC, respectively. Expression of PD-L2 was determined by immunohistochemistry. In total, PD-L2 staining was evaluable in 185 of 240 type 1 and 99 of 128 type 2 pRCC cases. Results: PD-L2 staining was positive in 67 (36.2%) of type 1 and in 31 (31.3%) of type 2 pRCC specimens. The prevalence of PD-L2+ cells was significantly higher in high-grade type 1 tumors (p = 0.019) and in type 2 patients with metastasis (p = 0.002). Kaplan-Meier analysis disclosed significant differences in 5-year overall survival (OS) for patients with PD-L2− compared to PD-L2+ in pRCC type 1 of 88.4% compared to 73.6% (p = 0.039) and type 2 of 78.8% compared to 39.1% % (p < 0.001). However, multivariate analysis did not identify the presence of PD-L2+ cells neither in type 1 nor type 2 pRCC as an independent predictor of poor OS. Discussion/Conclusion: PD-L2 expression did not qualify as an independent prognostic marker in pRCC. Future studies will have to determine whether anti-PD-L2-targeted treatment may play a role in pRCC and expression can potentially serve as a predictive marker for these therapeutic approaches.
Upregulated Angiotensin Ia Receptors in the Hypothalamic Paraventricular Nucleus Sensitize Neuroendocrine Vasopressin Release and Blood Pressure in a Rodent Model of Polycystic Kidney Disease
Authors: Underwood Conor F. , Burke Peter G.R. , Kumar Natasha N. , Goodchild Ann K. , McMullan Simon , Phillips Jacqueline K. , Hildreth Cara M.
Published: June 2022

Introduction: Angiotensin (Ang) II signalling in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) via Ang type-1a receptors (AT1R) regulates vasopressin release and sympathetic nerve activity – two effectors of blood pressure regulation. We determined the cellular expression and function of AT1R in the PVN of a rodent model of polycystic kidney disease (PKD), the Lewis polycystic kidney (LPK) rat, to evaluate its contribution to blood pressure regulation and augmented vasopressin release in PKD. Methods: PVN AT1R gene expression was quantified with fluorescent in situ hybridization in LPK and control rats. PVN AT1R function was assessed with pharmacology under urethane anaesthesia in LPK and control rats instrumented to record arterial pressure and sympathetic nerve activity. Results: AT1R gene expression was upregulated in the PVN, particularly in corticotrophin-releasing hormone neurons, of LPK versus control rats. PVN microinjection of Ang II produced larger increases in systolic blood pressure in LPK versus control rats (36 ± 5 vs. 17 ± 2 mm Hg; p < 0.01). Unexpectedly, Ang II produced regionally heterogeneous sympathoinhibition (renal: −33%; splanchnic: −12%; lumbar: no change) in LPK and no change in controls. PVN pre-treatment with losartan, a competitive AT1R antagonist, blocked the Ang II-mediated renal sympathoinhibition and attenuated the pressor response observed in LPK rats. The Ang II pressor effect was also blocked by systemic OPC-21268, a competitive V1A receptor antagonist, but unaffected by hexamethonium, a sympathetic ganglionic blocker. Discussion/Conclusion: Collectively, our data suggest that upregulated AT1R expression in PVN sensitizes neuroendocrine release of vasopressin in the LPK, identifying a central mechanism for the elevated vasopressin levels present in PKD.
A comparison between affiliative and agonistic behaviours in wild and captive Sapajus libidinosus (Spix, 1823) (Mammalia, Primates, Cebidae)
Authors: Lima Danilo Sabino da Silva , Paz Esau Marlon Franco da , El-Hani Charbel Niño , Japyassú Hilton Ferreira
Published: June 2022

Organisms modulate the expression of their behaviours through environmental contexts. Several studies have suggested that the frequencies of social behaviours may differ between captive and free-living primates. In the present study, we compared the social behaviours displayed by captive and free-living groups of the bearded capuchin monkey (Sapajus libidinosus), describing and analysing their social behaviours. We observed through focal animal sampling 59 animals distributed in 10 social groups, analysing 191:45 h of videos of their behaviours. Captivity reduced the frequency of agonistic, but not of affiliative behaviours. Furthermore, neither group size nor sex could explain the overall variability in affiliative behaviour. We conclude that captivity has indeed an important impact only on some aspects of social behaviour, namely, on agonistic behaviours.
New records and a voucher collection of parasitoid wasps (Hymenoptera) inhabiting agroforestry systems in the colombian amazon basin
Authors: Pérez-Benavides Alba Lucía , Malagon-Aldana Leonardo , Hanson Paul , Serna-Cardona Francisco Javier
Published: June 2022

Cacao (Theobroma cacao) and copoazú (T. grandiflorum) agroecosystems represent a common source of income or many small-scale farmers in the Colombian Amazon basin. Most of these systems are set in low disturbance environments; they are considered biodiversity-friendly ecosystems inhabited by several groups of insects. In this study, we carried out a preliminary taxonomic inventory of the microhymenopteran parasitoids present in these agroforestry systems. Twenty-six localities of the Amazonian basin of Colombia were sampled using several insect collecting methods (Malaise trap, sweep net, pitfall, and rearing boxes). Collected specimens were curated and cataloged, establishing the first taxonomic voucher collection of parasitoids from the Colombian Amazon basin. We identified 767 specimens representing 64 species, 274 morphospecies, 143 genera and 20 families, 34 genera and 16 species of these being recorded for the first time in the country. The genus Gbelcia is reported for the first time from the Neotropical region. A new parasitoid-host relationship was found for Horismenus cupreus (Eulophidae) attacking larvae of Phyllocnistis sp. (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae), which feeds on Annona montana (Annonaceae) leaves.
Um instituto singular e plural: as cinco décadas do ICMC em livro-reportagem
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Instituto de Ciências Matemáticas e de Computação, Casatti Denise
Published: June 2022

O projeto deste livro nasceu no momento em que o ICMC completava 45 anos de existência. Naquele tempo, foi publicada uma coletânea especial de reportagens no Jornal da USP com algumas das infinitas histórias que habitam esse pequeno ponto singular no mapa do mundo. Acalentado ao longo desses últimos cinco anos, o sonho da criação de um livro-reportagem sobre o ICMC começou a ganhar forma quando foi criada uma comissão destinada a preparar as comemorações dos 50 anos. O livro é resultado de uma iniciativa singular, porque é inédita e inovadora em forma e conteúdo, mas também é fruto de um trabalho plural, já que demandou esforço e dedicação de muitos outros colaboradores em sua elaboração, tornando a publicação singular e plural, a um só tempo, tal como a instituição que busca retratar em palavras e imagens.
Pós-processador para modelo de macroelementos finitos
Authors: Suzuki Bruna Sayuri de Souza
Published: June 2022

O projeto de tubos flexíveis e cabos umbilicais é um processo complicado. Para se fazer todas as validações necessárias, tanto a mecânica global quanto a interna devem ser levadas em conta. Apesar do modelo mostrar grandes avanços, a entrada e a saída de dados ainda são feitas utilizando arquivos de texto e ferramentas comerciais, que tornam o processo demorado e suscetível a falhas. Para tal, são propostas ferramentas de pré e pós-processamento que deixam tal tarefa mais simples. Essa pesquisa trata especificamente da ferramenta de pós-processamento. Objetiva-se construir uma ferramenta utilizando a linguagem C#, integrada ao modelo, que permita a geração de gráficos que facilitem a compreensão do fenômeno. Busca-se uma ferramenta intuitiva e que seja fácil de ser utilizada.
Mecatrone, volume 4
Authors: Alchorne Maurício Moreira de Avelar
Published: June 2022

Editorial do volume 4, número 1, 2019, da revista Mecatrone.
ArboAlvo: método de estratificação da receptividade territorial às arboviroses urbanas
Authors: Siqueira Alexandre San Pedro , Praça Heitor Levy Ferreira , Santos Jefferson Pereira Caldas dos , Albuquerque Hermano Gomes , Pereira Leandro Vouga , Simões Taynãna Cesar , Gusmão Eduardo Viana Vieira , Pereira Aline Aparecida Thomaz , Pimenta Júnior Fabiano Geraldo , Nobre Aline Araújo , Alves Mariane Branco , Barcellos Christovam , Carvalho Marilia Sá , Sabroza Paulo Chagastelles , Honório Nildimar Alves
Published: June 2022

OBJETIVO: Apresentar a metodologia de estratificação das arboviroses urbanas (dengue, zika e chikungunya) pelo índice de receptividade territorial, instrumento de vigilância e controle dessas doenças que considera a heterogeneidade territorial intramunicipal. MÉTODOS: Estudo ecológico que utiliza como unidade de análise as áreas de abrangência dos centros de saúde de Belo Horizonte (MG). Para a construção do índice de receptividade territorial foram selecionados indicadores de determinação socioambiental das arboviroses urbanas a fim de integrar à análise de componentes principais. As componentes resultantes foram ponderadas por análise de processos hierárquicos (AHP) e agregadas por meio de álgebra de mapas. RESULTADOS: O índice de receptividade territorial evidenciou grande heterogeneidade das condições de infraestrutura urbana. As áreas classificadas como alta e muito alta receptividade correspondem a aproximadamente 33% da área ocupada e se concentram sobretudo nas regiões de planejamento administrativo Leste, Nordeste, Norte, Oeste e Barreiro, principalmente em áreas limítrofes do município. Quando sobrepostas à densidade de casos de dengue e de ovos de Aedes em 2016, a estratificação pelo índice de receptividade territorial às arboviroses urbanas demonstra que áreas de muito alta receptividade apresentam uma densidade de casos, bem como de ovos de Aedes superior àquela observada nas demais áreas da cidade, o que corresponde a um percentual bastante reduzido do território municipal (13,5%). CONCLUSÕES: As análises indicam a necessidade do desenvolvimento de ações de vigilância e controle adequadas para cada contexto, superando, assim, a lógica de alocação homogênea em todo o território.
Ambient Air Pollution and Atherosclerosis: A Potential Mediating Role of Sphingolipids
Authors: Xu Yifan , Han Yiqun , Wang Yanwen , Gong Jicheng , Li Haonan , Wang Teng , Chen Xi , Chen Wu , Fan Yunfei , Qiu Xinghua , Wang Junxia , Xue Tao , Li Weiju , Zhu Tong
Published: June 2022

Background:

The pathophysiological mechanisms of air pollution-induced atherosclerosis are incompletely understood. Sphingolipids serve as biological intermediates during atherosclerosis development by facilitating production of proatherogenic apoB (apolipoprotein B)-containing lipoproteins. We explored whether sphingolipids mediate the proatherogenic effects of air pollution.

Methods:

This was a prospective panel study of 110 participants (mean age 56.5 years) followed from 2013 to 2015 in Beijing, China. Targeted lipidomic analyses were used to quantify 24 sphingolipids in 579 plasma samples. The mass concentrations of ambient particulate matter ≤2.5 μm in diameter (PM
2.5
) were continuously monitored by a fixed station. We evaluated the associations between sphingolipid levels and average PM
2.5
concentrations 1–30 days before clinic visits using linear mixed-effects models and explored whether sphingolipids mediate PM
2.5
-associated changes in the levels of proatherogenic apoB-containing lipoproteins (LDL-C [low-density lipoprotein cholesterol] and non-HDL-C [nonhigh-density lipoprotein cholesterol]) using mediation analyses.

Results:

We observed significant increases in the levels of non-HDL-C and fourteen sphingolipids associated with PM
2.5
exposure, from short- (14 days) to medium-term (30 days) exposure time windows. The associations exhibited near-monotonic increases and peaked in 30-day time window. Increased levels of the sphingolipids, namely, sphinganine, ceramide C24:0, sphingomyelins C16:0/C18:0/C18:1/C20:0/C22:0/C24:0, and hexosylceramides C16:0/C18:0/C20:0/C22:0/C24:0/C24:1 significantly mediated 32%, 58%, 35% to 93%, and 23% to 86%, respectively, of the positive association between 14-day PM
2.5
average and the non-HDL-C level, but not the LDL-C level. Similar mediation effects (19%–91%) of the sphingolipids were also observed in 30-day time window.

Conclusions:

Our results suggest that sphingolipids may mediate the proatherogenic effects of short- and medium-term PM
2.5
exposure.
Association of systemic vitamin D on the course of dengue virus infection in adults: a single-centre dengue cohort study at a large institution in Singapore
Authors: Sadarangani Sapna P , Htun Htet Lin , Ling Weiping , Hawkins Robert , Yeo Tsin Wen , Rivino Laura , MacAry Paul A , Leo Yee-Sin
Published: June 2022

Introduction:

Host immune responses may impact dengue severity in adults. Vitamin D has multiple immunomodulatory effects on innate and adaptive immunity.

Methods:

We evaluated the association between systemic 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25-(OH) D] and dengue disease severity in adults. We measured plasma for total 25-(OH) D levels with an electrochemiluminescence immunoassay using stored samples from participants with laboratory-confirmed dengue, who were prospectively enrolled in 2012–2016 at our institution.

Results:

A total of 80 participants (median age 43 years) were enrolled in the study. Six participants had severe dengue based on the World Health Organization (WHO) 1997 criteria (i.e. dengue haemorrhagic fever/dengue shock syndrome) and another six had severe dengue based on the WHO 2009 criteria. Median 25-(OH) D at the acute phase of dengue was 6.175 (interquartile range 3.82–8.21, range 3.00–15.29) mcg/L in all participants. The 25-(OH) D showed an inverse linear trend with severe dengue manifestations based on the WHO 2009 criteria (adjusted risk ratio 0.72, 95% confidence interval 0.57–0.91, P < 0.01) after adjustment for age, gender and ethnicity.

Conclusion:

Limited studies have evaluated the role of systemic 25-(OH) D on dengue severity. Our study found low systemic 25-(OH) D was associated with increased dengue disease severity, particularly for severe bleeding that was not explained by thrombocytopenia. Further studies investigating the underlying immune mechanisms and effects on the vascular endothelium are needed.
Myrcia urquiolae (Myrtaceae), a new species from eastern Cuba
Authors: ACOSTA RAMOS ZENIA , GÓMEZ HECHAVARRÍA JOSÉ LUIS
Published: June 2022

In this work, Myrcia urquiolae, a new endemic species of the subspinous xeromorphic scrub on serpentinites of the Sierra de Nipe, is described and the geographical distribution of its only population is presented. Myrcia urquiolae belongs to the Myrcia sect. Myrcia, of whose other species in Cuba is distinguished by its linear leaves with a strongly twisted margin. Based on field exposures, M. urquiolae is categorized as Critically Endangered according to IUCN criteria.