bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Macronutrient Intake in Adults Diagnosed with Metabolic Syndrome: using the Health Examinee (HEXA) Cohort
Authors: Park Hyerim , Kityo Anthony , Kim Yeon-Jin , Lee Sang-Ah
Published: November 2021

Macronutrient intake is important in the prevention and management of Metabolic Syndrome (MetS). We characterized energy and macronutrient intake of Koreans diagnosed with MetS at recruitment of the Health Examinee (HEXA) cohort. We included 130,423 participants aged 40-69 years for analysis. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated to evaluate the intake of macronutrient. Low energy (OR= 0.94, 95% CI: 0.89-0.98) and fat intake (OR=0.91, 95% CI: 0.86-0.97) was observed among 50-59 year-old men. Only postmenopausal women had lower intake of total energy (OR= 0.95, 95% CI: 0.92-0.97) while low fat intake was observed in all women (OR= 0.80 95% CI: 0.77-0.83). For carbohydrate intake, the OR were 1.14 (95% CI: 1.08-1.22) and 1.17 (95% CI: 1.08-1.27) among women in their 50’s and 60’s respectively. Protein intake was low (OR=0.90, 95% CI: 0.86-0.95) and (OR=0.88, 95% CI: 0.82-0.94) among women in their 50’s and 60’s respectively. High intake of plant carbohydrates in women (OR=1.16, 95% CI: 1.12-1.20) and plant protein in both genders (OR=1.09, 95% CI: 1.05-1.13) were observed, but low intake of total energy, fat and animal-source carbohydrates in both genders. Fat intake was low regardless of food source. In conclusion, high consumption of plant-source and low consumption of animal-source macronutrients was observed in Korean adult diagnosed MetS.
Cross-Sectional Study on the Knowledge About Pet Ownership, Zoonoses and Practices of Pet Owners in the North of Portugal
Authors: Do Vale Beatriz , Lopes Ana Patrícia , Fontes Maria Conceição , Silvestre Mário , Cardoso Luís , Coelho Ana Cláudia
Published: November 2021

Pet ownership is common in modern society. In Portugal, 38% and 31% of all households own, at least, one dog or cat, respectively. Few studies have ascertained the knowledge of pet owners about pet ownership and zoonoses, and none of them was carried out in Portugal. The aim of the present study was to assess household knowledge and practices related to pet ownership and zoonoses in the North of Portugal. A questionnaire was completed by 424 pet owners, during November 2019 to February 2020. Most respondents (97.2%) considered pets as an important part of the family, especially women (p = 0.036); 73.1% allowed their pets free access to indoors; 41.3% denied sharing the bed with their pets and 29% assumed they did it daily; 20.3% reported never kissing their pets/pets licking their faces; 73.6% considered animals as potential sources of diseases to humans, but only 25.9% reported knowing the definition of zoonoses; 96.9% considered important the role of veterinarians in protecting public health. The low level of knowledge of pet owners and the occurrence of high-risk behaviors indicate a need to strengthen communication between veterinarians, physicians, pet owners and the general public to reduce the risk of acquisition and transmission of zoonoses.
The application of Artificial Intelligence to Ophthalmology: A bibliometric study (2000-2021)
Authors: Wang Han , Zhou Xiaoshu , Du Wencai , Huang Lina
Published: November 2021

Background. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is an advanced technology for the latest 20 years. Machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) are the major innovations for AI, which has been applied for multiple fields. Ophthalmology has become to be one of the most significant disciplines for human healthcare. Methodology. This study utilizes methods of text mining and bibliometric analysis to explore applications of AI to ophthalmology. 179 related articles from Web of Science (WOS) and 96 papers from China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) are explored during the period of 2000 to 2021. A descriptive analysis of major trends, journal releasing, topic mapping and quotation relationships is implemented in this paper. Leading authors, journals, institutions, nations and references in the related research are identified. Results. Findings show that the application of AI technologies in ophthalmologic diagnosis with optical coherence tomography (OCT) fundus images is the core topic for this area’s studies, especially for diabetic retinopathy (DR), aged macular degeneration (AMD) and glaucoma. It is also be predicted as the core direction over the recent years. Besides, The USA, England and China is the most competitive countries in this scientific filed. Journals of Ophthalmology, Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Eye, Acta Ophthalmologica and Scientific Reports are the top five journal related to the research area. There is a significant difference between WOS and CNKI databases pertaining to the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to ophthalmology, especially for the historic development, topic mapping and discipline category. Finally, the potential academic value of interdisciplinary subject of “AI in Ophthalmology” and tradition Chinese medicine (TRM) is discussed. Limitations and suggestions for the future research is indicated at the end of this paper.
Why and How to Use the Body’s Own Stem Cells for Regeneration in Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Primer
Authors: Furia John , Lundeen Mark , Hurd Jason , Pearce David , Alt Christopher , Alt Eckhard , Schmitz Christoph , Maffulli Nicola
Published: November 2021

Recently, the management of musculoskeletal disorders with the patients' own stem cells, isolated from the walls of small blood vessels, which can be found in great numbers in the adipose tissue, has received considerable attention. The use of these autologous, unmodified stem cells can be seamlessly integrated into modern orthopedic treatment concepts, which can be understood as the optimization of a process which - albeit less efficiently - also takes place physiologically. Accordingly, this new safe and effective type of treatment is attractive in terms of holistic thinking and personalized medicine.
Reconfigurable Production Line Design Method for Human Workers – Robotic Cell Collaborated Line Considering Worker’s Attitude Toward Work
Authors: Kajita Daiki ,   Tokyo Metropolitan University 6-6 Asahigaoka, Hino, Tokyo 191-0065, Japan, Moronuki Nobuyuki
Published: November 2021

In recent years, manufacturing companies have faced difficulties in securing sufficient production capabilities at factories because of many regional risks, such as natural calamities and epidemics. A production line should be designed to be reconfigured to adapt to various risks for satisfying its demands. This paper proposes a flexible and reconfigurable production line composed of a combination of line workers and multipurpose equipment called robotic cells. A robotic cell performs work (similar to a worker) using a programmable arm robot. The required tasks are allocated to workers or robots. However, it is difficult to design the line configuration and task allocation, because the number of combinations is large. Additionally, the production efficiency fluctuates depending on the correlations between the worker’s attitude, skill level, and allocated tasks. This paper describes a production-line design method using a genetic algorithm. The proposed method maximizes the availability ratio and minimizes the cost of the production line by considering the worker’s attitude toward the work.
Realization of Swing Manipulation by 3-DOF Robot Arm for Unknown String via Parameter Estimation and Motion Generation
Authors: Tabata Kenta ,   Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Kanazawa University Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-1192, Japan, Seki Hiroaki , Tsuji Tokuo , Hiramitsu Tatsuhiro
Published: November 2021

Dynamically manipulating flexible objects using robots is difficult. Some studies have been conducted that only considered one type of object with known properties or that needed an identification test for string properties in advance. We propose a method to realize the dynamic manipulation of a string with unknown characteristics. We use a mass-spring-damper model for the string and repeat three steps: motion generation, real manipulation, and parameter estimation. The proposed method estimates the string properties to realize the motion objective via the real manipulation of the string. An identification test in advance was not necessary. In this study, we focus on swing manipulation. This can increase the motion energy of a string without a high-power actuator. After making a large swing, the robot can throw strings to a more distant target, such as a hammer throw. This motion is useful for explanation robots, rescue robots, and so on. We modified the proposed method to generate a swing manipulation. Then, we investigate whether swing manipulation can be performed by the proposed method and demonstrate its effectiveness via experiments with various strings with unknown characteristics.
An Uncommon Complication of Ankle Varus During Tibial Transport in an Ilizarov Frame
Authors: Gupta Vikas , Champawat Vishal , Behera Prateek , Garnayak Sibasis
Published: November 2021

Case:

We treated a 22-year-old man with an infected fracture of the tibia by resection of necrosed bone and bone transport with an Ilizarov device. Four weeks after initiation of transport, an ankle varus deformity from distal migration of the fibula was noticed. A wire that had been incorrectly placed through both the fibula and the transport fragment of the tibia was identified as responsible for this complication. It was changed after an acute reversal of the transport.

Conclusion:

Errors in the surgical technique during the insertion of Ilizarov wires can result in unusual complications. Attention to details is a must to avoid them.
Diffuse Tenosynovial Giant Cell Tumor: Persistent, Painless Knee Effusion in Male Teenager
Authors: Kavin Michelle , Chrusch Adam , Abraham John A.
Published: November 2021

Tenosynovial giant cell tumor (TGCT) is a benign tumor of the synovium or the lining of any synovial joint. When affected by TGCT, the lining becomes thickened resulting in effusion, decreased range of motion, and arthralgia. Complications can include long-term morbidity, disability, compromised joint function, joint replacement, and, in rare cases, possible amputation. The World Health Organization classified TGCT in 2013, making a distinction between 2 types: localized-TGCT and diffuse-TGCT (D-TGCT) (previously called pigmented villonodular synovitis or PVNS). D-TGCT is rare with a reported 4 to 8 cases per million person-years. It generally occurs in the third to fourth decade of life. Pediatric patients and teenagers present less frequently. We present a case of a male teenager with D-TGCT, reviewing this condition and the treatment modalities.
Bottlenecks and Opportunities towards Achieving the Targeted 95-95-95 HIV Services in a Rural District in Eastern Uganda
Authors: Namenkere Monkya Samuel , Stella Ayaa Mary , Linda Sukuku , Juliet Kharono , Charles Mugabi , Benina Chelangat , Olwedo Mary Abwola , Nabasumba Carol , Oboth Paul , Osele Julius , Nekaka Rebecca , Iramiot Jacob Stanley
Published: November 2021

Background: There are 1.3 million people living with HIV in Uganda of which 73% know their HIV-positive status, 67% of the HIV-positive patients on ART, and 60% are viral load suppressed. Uganda has made progress in reducing the HIV prevalence from 7.3% in 2011 to 6% in 2017, however, more needs to be done to meet the WHO target of 95% of the population knowing their HIV status, 95% enrolled on treatment and 95% achieving viral suppression. This study aimed to assess the bottlenecks and opportunities towards achieving the 95 95 95 targeted HIV services in Bukedea district. Methods: A mixed-methods cross-sectional study was conducted in Bukedea district covering males and females aged 18-65 years who had consented to participate in the study. We used a purposive sampling procedure to select our study participants. Qualitative data was collected through focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and document reviews for quantitative data. Quantitative data were analyzed using STATA v 14 whereas qualitative data were analyzed using the thematic analysis approach. Results: The challenges were grouped as patient-related, medication-related, and facility-related challenges. The patient-related challenges were stigma, fear to take the drugs, poor nutrition, long distances, alcoholism, busy working schedules, domestic violence. The medication-related 2 challenges were side effects, pill burden. The facility-related challenges were inadequate pretest counseling, stockouts. The use of anti-retroviral drugs was common in piggery and poultry and the sources of these drugs were reported to be the people on ART and the health workers. The opportunities included home-based counseling, organizing more outreaches, counseling and health education, targeted testing, and strengthening the VHT networks. Conclusion: The study revealed that the major challenges towards achieving the targeted 95-95- 95 HIV services were stigma, inadequate pre-test counseling, fear of disclosure, and poor adherence due to alcoholism, sharing of drugs with animals and partners. The use of Antiretroviral drugs in animal husbandry was common in Bukedea District. Continuous sensitization about HIV and the importance of adherence to drugs, continuous and adequate counseling of the clients on ART, and close monitoring of their viral load could help to improve enrollment into care, adherence to HIV treatment, and HIV viral load suppression.
Link prediction of viral spike proteins and cell receptors using structural perturbation method
Authors: Zhou Iris
Published: November 2021

Many protein receptors for animal and human viruses have been discovered in decades of studies. The main determinant of virus entry is the binding of the viral spike protein to host cell receptors, which mediates membrane fusion. In this work, a bilayer network is constructed by integrating the similarity network of the viral spike proteins, the similarity network of host receptors, and the association network between viruses and receptors. The structural perturbation method (SPM) is used to predict possible emerging infection of a virus in potential new host organisms. The reliability of this method is based on the hypothesis that the major barrier to virus infection is the differences in the compatibility of spike proteins and cell receptors, which is determined by the amino acid sequences among species.
The application of WT1 and P53/Ki-67 to predict the recurrence of epithelial ovarian cancer
Authors: Chen Yue , Zhang Yi , Zhou Jinhua , Wang Juan , Shen Fangrong , Chen Youguo
Published: November 2021

Purpose: To evaluate the ability of WT1 alone, and in combination with P53/Ki-67, to predict recurrence in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC).Methods: In this retrospective study, we performed immunohistochemistry on surgical specimens acquired from 137 patients with EOC. We analyzed the sensitivity of WT1 alone, and in combination with P53 and Ki-67, to predict the recurrence of EOC by applying Chi-squared and layered Chi-squared tests. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to predict progression-free survival(PFS).Results: The proportion of WT1-positive patients in the recurrent group (80.4%) was significantly higher than that in the non-recurrent group (60.4%; P=0.019). In stratified cohort analysis, the recurrence rate of WT1-positive patients was significantly higher than that of WT1-negative patients in the P53-positive group (P=0.034); similar results were obtained for the group with Ki-67 index >30% (P=0.026). Kaplan–Meier curves showed that WT1-negative patients presented with a significantly longer PFS than WT1-positive patients in the P53(P=0.006) and Ki-67(P=0.016) positive groups.Conclusion: A high level of WT1 is a potent predictor of recurrence for EOC. Our analyses showed that the predictive ability of WT1 was more sensitive when combined with P53/Ki-67. Monitoring the levels of WT1 could have significant therapeutic implications for patients with EOC.
Continuously tunable photonic radio frequency and microwave orthogonally polarized single sideband generator using Kerr micro-combs
Authors: Moss David
Published: November 2021

We demonstrate a continuously RF tunable orthogonally polarized optical single sideband (OP-OSSB) generator based on dual cascaded micro-ring resonators. By splitting the input double sideband signal into an orthogonally polarized carrier and lower sideband via TE- and TM-polarized MRRs, an OP-OSSB signal is generated. A large tuning range of the optical carrier to sideband ratio of up to 57.3 dB is achieved by adjusting the polarization angle of the input light. The operation RF frequency of the OP-OSSB generator can be continuously tuned with a 21.4 GHz range via independent thermal control of the two MRRs. Our device represents a competitive approach towards OP-OSSB generation with wideband tunable RF operation, and is promising for photonic RF signal transmission and processing in radar and communication systems.
Characteristics of a Capnophilic Small Colony Variant of Escherichia Coli Co-Isolated With Two Other Strains From a Patient With Bacteremia in China
Authors: Gao Shuo , Zhang Zhifeng , Xu Xuejing , Zhou Hui , Zhu Hong , Zhang Yan , Cao Xiaoli , Zhou Wanqing , Shen Han
Published: November 2021

Small colony variants (SCVs) are a slow-growing subpopulation of bacteria characterized by their atypical colony morphology and distinct biochemical properties, which are known to cause chronic persistent infections. Here, we investigated the characteristics of three phenotypes of Escherichia coli, including a capnophilic SCV, co-isolated from a 64-year-old patient with bacteremia in China. The three strains were identified as a capnophilic strain (EC1), a capnophilic SCV (EC2), and a wild-type strain (EC3). The EC1 and EC2 strains did not grow in the absence of CO2, while the EC2 colonies were pinpoint in appearance and had the ability to revert to the large-form phenotype. The growth of the SCV was slow and not enhanced in the presence of thymidine, hemin, thiamine, and menadione. The results of antimicrobial susceptibility showed similar sensitivity to cefoxitin and imipenem, but resistant to most of the other antimicrobials tested. Whole genome sequencing showed that no genetic mutational variations associated with SCVs were observed, while EC1, EC2 and the revertible strains of EC2 lacked the can gene. Multi-locus sequence typing showed that all strains belonged to ST457 and nucleotide similarity analysis indicated that they had high homology. In conclusion, we report rarely described co-isolated forms of three phenotypes of E. coli that included acapnophilic SCV in a patient with bacteremia. The capnophilic SCV strain had atypical morphology and biochemical characteristics with the absent of can gene. Based on our findings, we have discussed the laboratory identification, characterization, mechanisms, and clinical treatment of capnophilic SCV strains.
Potential of a fucoidan-rich Ascophyllum nodosum extract to reduce Salmonella shedding and improve gastrointestinal health in weaned pigs naturally infected with Salmonella
Authors: Venardou Brigkita , O’Doherty John V. , Maher Shane , Ryan Marion T. , Gath Vivian , Ravindran Rajeev , Kiely Claire , Rajauria Gaurav , Garcia-Vaquero Marco , Sweeney Torres
Published: November 2021

Background

Dietary supplementation with a fucoidan-rich Ascophyllum nodosum extract (ANE), possessing an in vitro anti- Salmonella Typhimurium activity could be a promising on-farm strategy to control Salmonella infection in pigs. The objectives of this study were to: 1) evaluate the anti- S. Typhimurium activity of ANE (≈ 47% fucoidan) in vitro , and; 2) compare the effects of dietary supplementation with ANE and zinc oxide (ZnO) on growth performance, Salmonella shedding and selected gut parameters in naturally infected pigs. This was established post-weaning (newly weaned pig experiment) and following regrouping of post-weaned pigs and experimental re-infection with S. Typhimurium (challenge experiment).

Results

In the in vitro assay, increasing ANE concentrations led to a linear reduction in S. Typhimurium counts ( P < 0.05). In the newly weaned pig experiment (12 replicates/treatment), high ANE supplementation increased growth to feed ratio, similar to ZnO supplementation, and reduced faecal Salmonella counts on day 21 compared to the low ANE and control groups ( P < 0.05). The challenge experiment included thirty-six pigs from the previous experiment that remained on their original dietary treatments (control and high ANE groups with the latter being renamed to ANE group) apart from the ZnO group which transitioned onto a control diet on day 21 (ZnO-residual group). These dietary treatments had no effect on performance, faecal scores, Salmonella shedding or colonic and caecal Salmonella counts ( P > 0.05). ANE supplementation decreased the Enterobacteriaceae counts compared to the control. Enterobacteriaceae counts were also reduced in the ZnO-residual group compared to the control (P < 0.05). ANE supplementation decreased the expression of interleukin 22 and transforming growth factor beta 1 in the ileum compared to the control ( P < 0.05).

Conclusions

ANE supplementation promoted a healthier composition in the colonic microbiota, reduced Salmonella shedding, and the expression of inflammatory genes associated with persistent Salmonella infection.
Rate of Recovery and Symptomatic Efficacy of a Polyherbal AYUSH Formulation in the Treatment of SARS CoV-2 disease: A Single-arm trial
Authors: Kanchibhotla Divya , Harsora Prateek , Subramanian Saumya , reddy Ravi , Venkatesh Hari
Published: November 2021

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the human coronavirus SARS CoV-2, has led to millions of deaths across the globe. Not only is the SARS CoV-2 virus highly infectious, it also mutates very easily. This creates additional challenges for development of robust therapeutic solutions. Along with modern system of healthcare, there is a definite need for exploring natural plant based antiviral compounds directed against the SARS CoV-2 virus.
Objective

The present observational study investigates the efficacy of an Ayurvedic polyherbal formulation of 19 ingredients, NOQ19, in the management of COVID-19.
Methodology:

A single arm, single centric, open label study design was adopted for this feasibility study. 161 RT-PCR positive COVID-19 patients were enrolled. The enrolled participants were provided the Ayurvedic intervention, 2 tablets of NOQ19, thrice daily along with the standard of care treatment. Follow up COVID-19 RT- PCR tests were conducted on Day 5, Day 10 and Day 14, or until the patient turned negative. The time required for testing negative on the RT-PCR test or becoming asymptomatic was noted.
Results

A subjective analysis demonstrated that 74% of patients turned RT-PCR negative within 5 days of taking NOQ19. Additionally, 98% of the subjects turned RT-PCR Negative on Day 10 after taking NOQ19 in addition to the standard of care treatment of Vitamin C, Zinc and antipyretic (as necessary). None of the participants reported any adverse or side effects to the medication.
Conclusion

NOQ19 Ayurvedic polyherbal formulation can be an effective and safe option for the symptomatic management of COVID-19.
Litter Breakdown among Intermittently Connected and Unconnected Geographically Isolated Wetlands (GIWs): How Nutrient Pulses Alter Wetland Function
Authors: Smith Chelsea R. , Golladay Stephen W. , Atkinson Carla L. , Clayton Brian A.
Published: November 2021

Geographically isolated wetlands (GIWs) comprise a significant portion of the wetlands in the U.S., connecting to surrounding landscapes in varying ways and providing diverse ecosystem functions. Understanding the consequences of wetland connections across space and time are crucial in understanding GIW function. We compared nutrient concentrations, litter breakdown, and associated macroinvertebrate communities from 2018–2019 in three wetlands connected by an intermittent flow path to agricultural fields, to three unconnected GIWs. Litter bags were constructed of two mesh sizes to reduce macroinvertebrate abundances. We observed increased breakdown with increased connection to agricultural fields, likely the result of increased nutrients such as phosphorus increasing microbial activity. Enhanced breakdown in the connected wetlands was transient, varying between years with the degree of connection. While water quality measures did not consistently show increased nutrient levels across all connected wetlands, lower litter N:P within connected wetlands provided a broader look at nutrient subsidies. Macroinvertebrate abundance was greater in connected wetlands when connection occurred and shredder abundance was greater later during breakdown, however high variability obscured any pattern with breakdown rates. Comparing litter decomposition rates in our study to previous studies, we note that our connected wetlands functioned more similarly to flowing waters while the unconnected wetlands functioned similar to discrete wetlands. Future climate predictions indicate increased winter rainfall for this region which will increase the degree and frequency of hydrologic connection and associated nutrient transport. Understanding how seasonal variability alters wetland function is important in understanding the roles wetlands play in landscape ecosystem function.
Impact of the Gamma Variant on the ICU Admission in a Hospital of the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires (CABA), Argentina
Authors: Mandich Veronica , Chiacchiara Daniel , Bravo Marcelo , Pilipec Antonio , Grimaldi Santiago , Cotez Johnny , Paniouk Victor , Arevalo Henry , Escobar Oswaldo , Flach Sebastian Perez , Pozo Amilcar Herbas , Aimar Alejandro
Published: November 2021

Purpose: Comparison between patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) with ventilatory support during the first and second wave (Gamma variant) of COVID 19 in a tertiary hospital in the City of Buenos Aires.Method: Descriptive, observational, prospective cohort study in ICU of an acute general hospital in Argentina, with patients adult patients COVID-19 admitted consecutively to the ICU. The ICU the main variables of interest: Demographic and laboratory data, history, duration of MV, mortality.Results: 44 patients were recruited during the first wave, and 80 in the second. Significant differences were observed in the second wave for age (60, [SD 11]; vs 68 [SD 11]; p <0.01), days with symptoms (9 [SD 5]; vs 4.5 [SD 3]; p <0.01), duration of MV (10 days [SD 7]; vs 16 [SD 13]; p <0.01), Ferritin (1450 mcg / l [SD 547]; vs 941 mcg / l [ SD 593]; p 0.04) and use of antibiotics (97% vs 45% p <0.01). There was no difference in mortality (66% vs 78% p 0.14) but there was in its primary causes; being more frequent hypoxemia associated with sepsis in the second wave (40% vs 3.4% p <0.01) and hypoxemia and multiorgan failure in the first (28% vs 4% p <0.01).Conclusions: During the second wave of the pandemic, due to Gamma variant, more patients were admitted to our unit, younger, with a longer evolution time, a shorter time on MV and a greater inflammatory response, with no difference in mortality, although there was a difference in its causes.
The effect of the working transitory regimes of the internal combustion engines with gas and liquid fuel supply upon the engine performance
Authors: Corneliu Moroianu
Published: November 2021

The running of the Diesel marine engines under maximum safe conditions at the best economical and working parameters is one of the main requirements of a good navigation on the Seven Seas. This paper is proposed to present some essential aspects related to the internal combustion engines with gas and liquid fuels supply upon the working performance of the engine.
The particularity of pitting phenomenon of sleding bearing surfaces
Authors: Dumitru Dascălu
Published: November 2021

In case of rolling bearing the pitting phenomenon it understands and explain did. This paper present the theoretical argument for explained particularity aspect of pitting phenomenon at sliding bearing surfaces.
Finplast, a proceeding for optimization the performing of antifriction material surfaces
Authors: Dumitru DASCĂLU
Published: November 2021

FINPLAST it’s a solution for up grating the trybological performing of antifriction material surfaces of sliding bearings. Finplast is an extension of the cold plastic deformation proceeding in the domain of finishing of sliding bearings. This proceeding was researched by the author in the field of production after studying the effect of metal cutting by finishing surfaces of sliding bearing. The paper presents the device for obtain the surfaces for study of the influents of FINPLAST proceeding parameters over most important tribological parameters. The paper presents the visual aspect and roughness profile of surfaces obtain by FINPLAST proceeding.
"Spectrally gapped" random walks on networks: a Mean First Passage Time formula
Authors: Bartolucci Silvia , Caccioli Fabio , Caravelli Francesco , Vivo Pierpaolo
Published: November 2021

We derive an approximate but explicit formula for the Mean First
Passage Time of a random walker between a source and a target node of a
directed and weighted network. The formula does not require any matrix
inversion, and it takes as only input the transition probabilities into
the target node. It is derived from the calculation of the average
resolvent of a deformed ensemble of random sub-stochastic matrices
H=\langle H\rangle +\delta HH=⟨H⟩+δH,
with \langle H\rangle⟨H⟩
rank-11
and non-negative. The accuracy of the formula depends on the spectral
gap of the reduced transition matrix, and it is tested numerically on
several instances of (weighted) networks away from the high sparsity
regime, with an excellent agreement.
Detecção de Deepfakes: comparação de desempenho de modelos treinados com múltiplas bases de dados públicas
Authors: Freitas Eduardo Silva , Gomes Rogerio Martins , Santos Bruno André , Batista Natália Cosse
Published: November 2021

Avanços na área de inteligência artificial têm permitido que conteúdos audiovisuais falsificados, conhecidos como deepfakes, sejam produzidos com alta qualidade visual. Esses vídeos, que apresentam pessoas agindo de forma supostamente real, podem representar uma ameaça à sociedade quando utilizados de forma maliciosa. Sendo assim, algoritmos de detecção se tornam necessários para que esse conteúdo possa ser detectado e moderado nos meios de difusão. Diversos modelos, propostos na literatura, são capazes de reconhecer características geracionais específicas das deepfakes. No entanto, falham quando submetidos à vídeos oriundos de técnicas de Deepfake posteriores a sua concepção. Sendo assim, este trabalho avalia técnicas de detecção, consideradas o estado da arte, como a arquitetura EfficientNet, e técnicas baseadas em redes neurais clássicas encontradas na literatura, como a ResNet-152. Para isso, modelos de detecção que implementam estas arquiteturas foram treinados por meio de diversas bases de amostras deepfake disponíveis publicamente. As bases selecionadas atendem a critérios baseados na qualidade visual, volume de vídeos e diversidade de métodos de produção empregados. Das soluções propostas, o modelo baseado na rede EfficientNet-B0 obteve as melhores métricas de teste quando avaliado por meio de datasets utilizados em competições, atingindo 80% de acurácia. Observou-se também que a estratégia de utilização de múltiplas bases de amostras foi a melhor abordagem para o problema, visto que os modelos treinados com somente uma base obtiveram um pior desempenho. A rede ResNet-152, treinada com múltiplas bases, apresentou bons resultados na tarefa de detecção de deepfakes, porém seu desempenho foi inferior ao alcançado pelo modelo baseado na arquitetura EfficientNet.
Bladder Cancer-related microRNAs With In Vivo Efficacy in Preclinical Models
Authors: WEIDLE ULRICH H. , BIRZELE FABIAN
Published: November 2021

Progressive and metastatic bladder cancer remain difficult to treat. In this review, we critique seven up-regulated and 25 down-regulated microRNAs in order to identify new therapeutic entities and corresponding targets. These microRNAs were selected with respect to their efficacy in bladder cancer-related preclinical in vivo models. MicroRNAs and related targets interfering with chemoresistance, cell-cycle, signaling, apoptosis, autophagy, transcription factor modulation, epigenetic modification and metabolism are described. In addition, we highlight microRNAs targeting transmembrane receptors and secreted factors. We discuss druggability issues for the identified targets.
Changes in Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte Ratio Predict Efficacy of Trabectedin for Soft-tissue Sarcoma
Authors: SATO YASUYOSHI , NAKANO KENJI , KAWAGUCHI KUNIKI , FUKUDA NAOKI , WANG XIAOFEI , URASAKI TETSUYA , OHMOTO AKIHIRO , HAYASHI NAOMI , YUNOKAWA MAYU , ONO MAKIKO , TOMOMATSU JUNICHI , HAYAKAWA KEIKO , FUNAUCHI YUKI , TANIZAWA TAISUKE , AE KEISUKE , MATSUMOTO SEIICHI , TAKAHASHI SHUNJI
Published: November 2021

Background/Aim: Trabectedin and eribulin are widely used for the treatment of soft-tissue sarcoma (STS). Previously it was shown that the baseline neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) predicts the efficacy of eribulin for STS. However, prognostic factors for trabectedin on STS have not been identified to date. Patients and Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of data collected prospectively from 39 patients treated with trabectedin for recurrent or metastatic STS between October 2012 and December 2019. To determine the predictive factors of overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS), univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. Results: Age ≥40 (HR=0.33, 95% CI=0.15-0.71; p=0.0050) and changes in NLR (ΔNLR) <0.5 (HR=2.40, 95% CI-1.01-5.72; p=0.048) were independent factors predictive of longer OS. In addition, age ≥40 (HR=0.23, 95% CI=0.10-0.52; p<0.001) was an independent predictor of longer PFS. Conclusion: Changes in NLR and age ≥40 years were able to predict the efficacy of trabectedin for STS.
Risk Scoring System for Ra-223 Discontinuation and Its Effect on Prognosis: A Retrospective Study
Authors: ITO HITOSHI , YAEGASHI HIROSHI , OKADA YOSHIYUKI , SHIMADA TAKAFUMI , YAMAOKA TOSHIHIDE , OKUBO KAZUTOSHI , SAKAMOTO TAKASHI , MIZOKAMI ATSUSHI
Published: November 2021

Background/Aim: Radium-223 therapy prolongs overall survival in castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) patients with bone metastasis. Patients who are unable to complete six courses of radium-223 therapy reportedly have a poor prognosis. This study aimed to develop a risk score using the discontinuation factors of the above therapy modality. Patients and Methods: Seventy patients who received radium-223 therapy for metastatic CRPC at two Japanese Institutions were evaluated. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the discontinuation factors and determine the risk scores. Results: The median survival time was 24.3 and 9.5 months in patients who did and did not complete the therapy, respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed haemoglobin and prostate-specific antigen as key factors. A risk score was developed using these factors, and patients were stratified into three groups. The discontinuation rate and survival after radium-223 therapy were significantly different. Conclusion: Our risk score may help evaluate the suitability of radium-223 in CRPC patients.
Evaluation of Early Prognostic Factors in Patients With Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Receiving Gemcitabine Together With Nab-paclitaxel
Authors: IZUMO WATARU , HIGUCHI RYOTA , FURUKAWA TORU , YAZAWA TAKEHISA , UEMURA SHUICHIRO , MATSUNAGA YUTARO , SHIIHARA MASAHIRO , YAMAMOTO MASAKAZU
Published: November 2021

Background: Gemcitabine together with nab-paclitaxel (GnP) has been shown to improve outcomes in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). However, the predictive markers for treatment effects remain unclear. This study aimed to identify early prognostic factors in patients with PDAC receiving GnP. Patients and Methods: We analyzed 113 patients who received GnP for PDAC and evaluated the relationship between clinical factors and outcomes. Results: The median survival time (MST) was 1.2 years. In multivariate analysis, baseline carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) ≥747 U/ml [hazard ratio (HR)=1.9], baseline controlling nutrition status (CONUT) score ≥5 (HR=3.7) and changing rate of CA19-9 after two GnP cycles ≥0.69 (HR=3.7) were independent risk factors for poor prognosis. When examining outcomes according to pre-chemotherapeutic measurable factors (baseline CA19-9 and CONUT), the MSTs of patients with pre-chemotherapeutic zero risk factors (pre-low-risk group, n=63) and one or more risk factors (pre-high-risk group, n=50) were 1.7 and 0.65 years (p<0.001), respectively. The MST for those with a changing rate of CA19-9 after two GnP cycles <0.69 and ≥0.69 was significantly different in both groups (2.0 and 1.2 years in the pre-low-risk group, p<0.001; 1.0 and 0.52 years in the pre-high-risk group, p<0.001). Conclusion: These results may be useful for decision-making regarding treatment strategies in patients with PDAC receiving GnP.
Clinical Efficacy of Liver Tumor Biopsy With Radiofrequency Ablation of the Puncture Route Using a Co-access Needle
Authors: ISHIKAWA TORU , KODAMA ERINA , KOBAYASHI TAKAMASA , AZUMI MOTOI , NOZAWA YUJIRO , IWANAGA AKITO , SANO TOMOE , HONMA TERASU
Published: November 2021

Background/Aim: Tumor biopsy are needed frequency for accurate diagnosis. However, percutaneous liver tumor biopsy presents a risk of complications such as bleeding and tumor seeding. We investigated the feasibility of liver tumor biopsy, followed by cauterization with expandable radiofrequency ablation. Patients and Methods: Tumor biopsies using a co-access needle were performed in 102 patients. Expandable radiofrequency ablation was used to ensure cauterization and hemostasis of the puncture route. We evaluated the clinical background and complications. Results: The average (±standard deviation) tumor diameter was 56.87±39.45 mm. Pathological diagnosis was possible in all cases. In 20 patients, the postoperative pathological diagnosis differed from the preoperative diagnosis. No significant anemia progression was observed in any patients after biopsy, and no peritoneal seeding was observed during a mean follow-up observation period of 18.5 months. Conclusion: Liver tumor biopsy, followed by cauterization with expandable radiofrequency ablation via a co-access needle, is safe and useful for obtaining reliable diagnoses.
Clinical Outcomes of Three or More Courses of First-line Chemotherapy for Metastatic Urothelial Carcinoma
Authors: KAWAGUCHI SHOHEI , IZUMI KOUJI , NAITO RENATO , KADOMOTO SUGURU , IWAMOTO HIROAKI , YAEGASHI HIROSHI , IIJIMA MASASHI , NOHARA TAKAHIRO , SHIGEHARA KAZUYOSHI , KADONO YOSHIFUMI , MIZOKAMI ATSUSHI
Published: November 2021

Background/Aim: The current standard of care for first-line treatment of locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma (UC) is platinum-based combination chemotherapy. Recently, immune checkpoint inhibitors have been reported to be effective for UC. Knowing whether immunotherapy or chemotherapy is suitable as first-line treatment is beneficial for patients. A retrospective study was conducted on the clinical outcomes of Japanese patients who received three or more courses of first-line chemotherapy for metastatic UC to assess the outcome of conventional treatments in real clinical situation. Patients and Methods: Patients who received first-line chemotherapy between August 2009 and December 2019 were included. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were assessed. Results: The median PFS and OS were 7.1 and 27.1 months, respectively, for patients with no disease progression at the end of three courses. Of 28 patients, 25 (89.3%) received second-line drug therapy and 10 (35.7%) received focal therapy for disease control. Patients with focal therapy had significantly longer OS than those without focal therapy (p=0.019, log-rank test). Conclusion: OS of metastatic UC at our Institution is relatively long, suggesting that aggressive second-line drug therapy and focal therapy may have contributed to such result.
Gastric Eosinophilic Granuloma Related to Anisakiasis Resected by Laparoscopic and Endoscopic Cooperative Surgery
Authors: NAMIKAWA TSUTOMU , MARUI AKIRA , YOKOTA KEIICHIRO , YAMAGUCHI SACHI , FUKUDOME IAN , UEMURA SUNAO , MUNEKAGE MASAYA , MAEDA HIROMICHI , KITAGAWA HIROYUKI , KOBAYASHI MICHIYA , HANAZAKI KAZUHIRO
Published: November 2021

Background: Anisakiasis-related gastric eosinophilic granuloma is rare. Case Report: Herein, we report a patient with anisakiasis-related gastric eosinophilic granuloma who was treated with laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery (LECS). A 59-year-old woman was presented to our hospital for further examination of a gastric lesion that was initially diagnosed by a local medical doctor. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy showed a submucosal tumor-like lesion in the lower body of the stomach. Endoscopic ultrasonography showed a heterogeneous hypoechoic submucosal mass lesion in the submucosal layer measuring 10 mm, without evidence of deep involvement. Under a clinical diagnosis of gastrointestinal stromal tumor, the patient underwent LECS. Gross appearance of the resected specimen revealed a 1.5×1.0 cm submucosal tumor-like lesion. Microscopic examination revealed necrosed insects consistent with the characteristics of gastric anisakiasis, around which prominent eosinophilic infiltration and granulomas were observed. This prompted a diagnosis of gastric eosinophilic granuloma related to anisakiasis. Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the second case of gastric eosinophilic granuloma related to anisakiasis resected by LECS in the English medical literature. LECS might be a useful procedure for minimally invasive therapeutic diagnosis.
Event Prediction Model Considering Time and Input Error Using Electronic Medical Records in the Intensive Care Unit: Retrospective Study
Authors: Sung MinDong , Hahn Sangchul , Han Chang Hoon , Lee Jung Mo , Lee Jayoung , Yoo Jinkyu , Heo Jay , Kim Young Sam , Chung Kyung Soo
Published: November 2021

Background

In the era of artificial intelligence, event prediction models are abundant. However, considering the limitation of the electronic medical record–based model, including the temporally skewed prediction and the record itself, these models could be delayed or could yield errors.

Objective

In this study, we aim to develop multiple event prediction models in intensive care units to overcome their temporal skewness and evaluate their robustness against delayed and erroneous input.

Methods

A total of 21,738 patients were included in the development cohort. Three events—death, sepsis, and acute kidney injury—were predicted. To overcome the temporal skewness, we developed three models for each event, which predicted the events in advance of three prespecified timepoints. Additionally, to evaluate the robustness against input error and delays, we added simulated errors and delayed input and calculated changes in the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) values.

Results

Most of the AUROC and area under the precision-recall curve values of each model were higher than those of the conventional scores, as well as other machine learning models previously used. In the error input experiment, except for our proposed model, an increase in the noise added to the model lowered the resulting AUROC value. However, the delayed input did not show the performance decreased in this experiment.

Conclusions

For a prediction model that was applicable in the real world, we considered not only performance but also temporal skewness, delayed input, and input error.
Artificial Intelligence in Rehabilitation Targeting the Participation of Children and Youth With Disabilities: Scoping Review (Preprint)
Authors: Kaelin Vera C , Valizadeh Mina , Salgado Zurisadai , Parde Natalie , Khetani Mary A
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND

In the last decade, there has been a rapid increase in research on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to improve child and youth participation in daily life activities, which is a key rehabilitation outcome. However, existing reviews place variable focus on participation, are narrow in scope, and are restricted to select diagnoses, hindering interpretability regarding the existing scope of AI applications that target the participation of children and youth in a pediatric rehabilitation setting.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this scoping review is to examine how AI is integrated into pediatric rehabilitation interventions targeting the participation of children and youth with disabilities or other diagnosed health conditions in valued activities.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive literature search using established Applied Health Sciences and Computer Science databases. Two independent researchers screened and selected the studies based on a systematic procedure. Inclusion criteria were as follows: participation was an explicit study aim or outcome or the targeted focus of the AI application; AI was applied as part of the provided and tested intervention; children or youth with a disability or other diagnosed health conditions were the focus of either the study or AI application or both; and the study was published in English. Data were mapped according to the types of AI, the mode of delivery, the type of personalization, and whether the intervention addressed individual goal-setting.

RESULTS

The literature search identified 3029 documents, of which 94 met the inclusion criteria. Most of the included studies used multiple applications of AI with the highest prevalence of robotics (72/94, 77%) and human-machine interaction (51/94, 54%). Regarding mode of delivery, most of the included studies described an intervention delivered in-person (84/94, 89%), and only 11% (10/94) were delivered remotely. Most interventions were tailored to groups of individuals (93/94, 99%). Only 1% (1/94) of interventions was tailored to patients’ individually reported participation needs, and only one intervention (1/94, 1%) described individual goal-setting as part of their therapy process or intervention planning.

CONCLUSIONS

There is an increasing amount of research on interventions using AI to target the participation of children and youth with disabilities or other diagnosed health conditions, supporting the potential of using AI in pediatric rehabilitation. On the basis of our results, 3 major gaps for further research and development were identified: a lack of remotely delivered participation-focused interventions using AI; a lack of individual goal-setting integrated in interventions; and a lack of interventions tailored to individually reported participation needs of children, youth, or families.