bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Headache and non-headache symptoms provoked by nitroglycerin in migraineurs: A human pharmacological triggering study
Authors: Karsan Nazia , Bose Pyari R , Thompson Charlotte , Newman Jayde , Goadsby Peter J
Published: March 2020

Background

Studying a spontaneous migraine attack is challenging, particularly the earliest components. Nitroglycerin is a potent, reliable and reproducible migraine trigger of the entirety of the migraine attack, making its use experimentally attractive.

Methods

Fifty-three subjects with migraine with a history of spontaneous premonitory symptoms were exposed to a 0.5 mcg/kg/min nitroglycerin infusion. Eighty-three percent (n = 44) developed typical premonitory and headache symptomatology. Fifty-seven percent (n = 25) were invited back to further study visits, during which they were re-exposed to nitroglycerin or placebo infusion in a double-blind randomised design. The phenotype of premonitory symptoms and headache was captured and compared to spontaneous attacks and between triggered attacks using agreement analysis.

Results

More premonitory symptoms were triggered with nitroglycerin than placebo (mean symptom difference = 4, t20 = 7.06, p < 0.001). The agreement in triggering for the most commonly reported premonitory symptoms (concentration difficulty and tiredness) was >66%. The retriggering agreement for all but one premonitory symptom was >60%. The agreement in timing to onset of premonitory symptoms was reliable across two triggered attacks. The agreement with spontaneous attacks and between attacks for headache and its associated symptoms, including laterality, was less reliable.

Conclusions

Nitroglycerin can reliably and reproducibly provoke premonitory symptomatology associated with migraine. This forms an ideal model to study the earliest manifestations of migraine attacks.
Mechanistic Identification of Freight Activity Stops from Global Positioning System Data
Authors: Holguín-Veras José , Encarnación Trilce , Pérez-Guzmán Sofía , Yang Xia (Sarah)
Published: March 2020

The identification of freight pick-ups and deliveries, referred to as “freight activity” in this paper, is crucial to characterizing freight operations and assessing the performance of freight transportation systems. However, identifying freight activity stops from global positioning system (GPS) data is challenging, particularly in urban freight where congested traffic is common. This paper presents a mechanistic—because it is based on the physics of driving patterns—procedure to identify freight activity stops from raw GPS data. The procedure was implemented to identify stops in three distinct case studies that present a wide range of traffic conditions: Barranquilla, Colombia; Dhaka, Bangladesh; and New York City, United States. The results show that the procedure achieves an average accuracy of above 98.6% when identifying freight activity stops. The results of the proposed procedure were compared with results from support vector machines, random forest, and k nearest neighbors. The mechanistic procedure outperformed these methods in correctly classifying freight activity using second-by-second GPS data.
Evaluating Advancements in Bluetooth Technology for Travel Time and Segment Speed Studies
Authors: Cotten Drew , Codjoe Julius , Loker Matthew
Published: March 2020

Application of Bluetooth technology has become ubiquitous in the current age of transportation research. The purpose of this article is to explore advancements of Bluetooth technology, applied to transportation studies, using performance metrics such as match rate, travel time, and segment speed through analyzing collected data from several Bluetooth devices. Specifically, the study explores the performance of two advanced Bluetooth devices coupled with classic Bluetooth technology: the demodulator (BT DM), and the low-energy Bluetooth signal additional component (BLE). Data were collected in two locations/phases: (1) along a 0.59-mi segment of interstate and (2) along a 0.52-mi segment of an urban arterial road in Baton Rouge, LA. The data collected were compared with benchmark data sets, gathered during the same period, using manual counts from video footage, radar data, and floating car data (FCD). Comparative analysis showed that BLE produced significantly higher matched rates than BT DM. Furthermore, BLE was able to maintain higher accuracy with increased levels of detection. Results of a Kruskal–Wallis test showed BT DM to have a statistically significant difference with FCD during only one out of three peak periods along the interstate segment. However, BLE matched closest with FCD along the interstate, but shared a significant difference with the benchmark data set during two peak periods along the urban arterial roadway. Considering the level of detection with the accuracy of travel times and segment speeds when compared with the benchmark data, it was evident that the BLE performed better than the BT DM.
Blood Flow Restriction Training Applied With High-Intensity Exercise Does Not Improve Quadriceps Muscle Function After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Curran Michael T. , Bedi Asheesh , Mendias Christopher L. , Wojtys Edward M. , Kujawa Megan V. , Palmieri-Smith Riann M.
Published: March 2020

Background:

A major goal of rehabilitation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) is restoring quadriceps muscle strength. Unfortunately, current rehabilitation paradigms fall short of this goal, such that substantial quadriceps muscle strength deficits can limit return to play and increase the risk of recurrent injuries. Blood flow restriction training (BFRT) involves the obstruction of venous return to working muscles during exercise and may lead to better recovery of quadriceps muscle strength after ACLR.

Purpose:

To examine the efficacy of BFRT with high-intensity exercise on the recovery of quadriceps muscle function in patients undergoing ACLR.

Study Design:

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

A total of 34 patients (19 female, 15 male; mean age, 16.5 ± 2.7 years; mean height, 169.0 ± 19.7 cm; mean weight, 73.2 ± 17.7 kg) scheduled to undergo ACLR were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 groups: concentric (n = 8), eccentric (n = 8), concentric with BFRT (n = 9), and eccentric with BFRT (n = 9). The exercise component of the intervention consisted of patients performing a single-leg isokinetic leg press, at an intensity of 70% of the patients’ 1-repetition maximum during either the concentric or eccentric action, for 4 sets of 10 repetitions 2 times per week for 8 weeks beginning at 10 weeks postoperatively. Patients randomized to the BFRT groups performed the leg-press exercise with a cuff applied to the thigh, set to a limb occlusion pressure of 80%. Isometric and isokinetic (60 deg/s) quadriceps peak torque, quadriceps muscle activation, and rectus femoris muscle volume were assessed before ACLR, after BFRT, and at the time that patients returned to activity and were converted to the change in values from baseline for analysis. Also, 1-way analyses of covariance were used to compare the change in values for each dependent variable between groups after BFRT and at return to activity ( P ≤ .05).

Results:

No significant differences were found between groups for any outcome measures at either time point ( P > .05).

Conclusion:

An 8-week BFRT plus high-intensity exercise intervention did not significantly improve quadriceps muscle strength, activation, or volume. On the basis of our findings, the use of BFRT in conjunction with high-intensity resistance exercise in patients undergoing ACLR to improve quadriceps muscle function may not be warranted.

Registration:

NCT03141801 ( ClinicalTrials.gov identifier)
Determining the Patient Acceptable Symptomatic State for Patients Undergoing Arthroscopic Partial Meniscectomy in the Knee
Authors: Dwyer Tim , Zochowski Thomas , Ogilvie-Harris Darrell , Theodoropoulos John , Whelan Daniel , Chahal Jaskarndip
Published: March 2020

Background:

Arthroscopic partial meniscectomy is one of the most common procedures in orthopaedic surgery. The patient acceptable symptomatic state (PASS), which defines a level of symptoms above which patients consider themselves well, remains to be well-defined in this population.

Purpose:

Using an anchor-based approach, our goal was to determine the 1-year PASS for the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) Subjective Knee Form, the Western Ontario Meniscal Evaluation Tool (WOMET), and the Marx Activity Scale (MAS) in patients who were treated with partial knee meniscectomy.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A consecutive series of patients with knee meniscal tears and a Kellgren-Lawrence grade of 0 to 2 treated with arthroscopic partial meniscectomy were eligible. The KOOS (0-100), IKDC (0-100), WOMET (0-100), and MAS (0-16) were administered at baseline and 12 months postoperatively. An external anchor question at 1 year postoperatively was used to determine PASS values. A receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis was used to determine the PASS value at which patients considered their status to be satisfactory.

Results:

The study included 110 patients (mean ± SD age, 53.8 ± 12.0 years), 57.3% were male, and the follow-up rate was 82%. In total, 70% of patients had an Outerbridge arthroscopic grade of 2 or lower. Based on ROC analysis, the 1-year postoperative PASS values (sensitivity, specificity) were 64.3 (47.8, 100.0) for KOOS Symptoms, 81.6 (71.6, 100.0) for KOOS Pain, 82.4 (82.1, 86.4) for KOOS Function in Daily Living, 71.0 (62.7, 81.8) for KOOS Function in Sport and Recreation, 51.0 (83.6, 95.5) for KOOS Knee-Related Quality of Life, 56.2 (82.1, 100.0) for IKDC, 58.5 (79.1, 100.0) for WOMET, and 7.0 (44.8, 68.2) for MAS. Baseline scores did not affect the PASS threshold across the different instruments. However, patients with higher baseline scores were more likely to achieve the PASS for the KOOS Symptoms (odds ratio [OR], 2.808; P = .047), IKDC (OR, 4.735; P = .006), and WOMET (OR, 2.985; P = .036). Age, sex, and cartilage status were not significantly related to the odds of achieving the PASS for any of the patient-reported outcome measures.

Conclusion:

These findings allow researchers and clinicians to determine whether partial meniscectomy is meaningful to patients at the individual level and will be helpful for responder analysis in future trials related to the treatment of meniscal abnormality.
The Effects of Minimum Wages on Tipping: A State-Level Analysis
Authors: Lynn Michael
Published: March 2020

Analyses of state differences in minimum wages and tip percentages found that (1) states with higher regular minimum wages have lower average tip percentages in coffee shops and higher average tip percentages in restaurants (after controlling for tipped minimum wages and cost-of-living) and (2) states with higher tipped minimum wages have lower average tip percentages in restaurants and higher average tip percentages in coffee shops (after controlling for regular minimum wages and cost of living). Although the data are only correlational and do not prove causality, these findings support the idea that paying tipped workers higher wages decreases the tip percentages those workers receive. Discussion centers on the potential processes underlying such an effect, its implications for minimum wage policy and directions for future research.
Scald-Cold: Joint Austrian-Italian consortium in the Euregio project for the comprehensive dissection of the superficial scald in apples
Authors: Costa Fabrizio , Zanella Angelo , Beć Krzysztof , Biasioli Franco , Busatto Nicola , Cappellin Luca , Chitarrini Giulia , Farneti Brian , Folie Ilaria , Grabska Justyna , Robatcher Peter , Stuerz Stefan , Vittani Lorenzo , Vrhovsek Urska , Huck Christian
Published: March 2020

After harvest, apples are stored at low temperature to slow down the ripening physiological processes. This strategy can, however, also promote the development of superficial scald, a chilling injury-related disorder showing brown-discoloured areas on the fruit skin, totally compromising its marketability. To examine thoroughly the underlying physiological mechanisms and genetic control of superficial scald, the “Scald-Cold” project, a three-year Interegional Project Network, was granted by the European Region Tyrol, South Tyrol and Trentino (EGTC). The project is centred on a comprehensive approach, integrating into a joint effort different scientific disciplines, ranging from genetics and transcriptomics to NIR spectroscopy and hyperspectral imaging, together with the employment of distinct postharvest storage technologies distinguished by a specific regime of low oxygen. The core of this project aims to disclose novel regulatory processes of this disorder, providing new series of tools important for both the scientific and technical communities interested in apple breeding and postharvest. The “Scald-Cold” project will identify new molecular markers suitable for the selection of new apple varieties genetically resistant to superficial scald, while developing tools for an early detection of this phenomenon.
Three-Dimensional Renal Organoids from Whole Kidney Cells: Generation, Optimization, and Potential Application in Nephrotoxicology In Vitro
Authors: Ding Beichen , Sun Guoliang , Liu Shiliang , Peng Ejun , Wan Meimei , Chen Liang , Jackson John , Atala Anthony
Published: March 2020

The kidney function of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is impaired irreversibly. Organ transplantation is the only treatment to restore kidney function in CKD patients. The assessment of new potential therapeutic procedures relies heavily on experimental animal models, but it is limited by its human predictive capacity. In addition, the frequently used two-dimensional in vitro human renal cell models cannot replicate all the features of the in vivo situation. In this study, we developed a three-dimensional (3D) in vitro human renal organoid model from whole kidney cells as a promising drug screening tool. At present, the renal tissue generated from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) exhibits intrinsic tumorigenicity properties. Here we first developed a 3D renal organoid culture system that originated from adult differentiated cells without gene modification. Renal organoids composed of multiple cell types were created under optimal experimental conditions and evaluated for morphology, viability and erythropoietin production. As a novel screening tool for renal toxicity, 3D organoids were exposed to three widely used drugs: aspirin, penicillin G and cisplatin. The study results showed this 3D renal organoid model can be used as a drug screening tool, a new in vitro 3D human kidney model, and provide hope for potential regenerative therapies for CKD.
Choroidal lymphoma diagnosed by polymerase chain reaction–based clonality assessment
Authors: Hernández-Pons Antonio , Gómez-Beltrán Elena , Fernández-Zarzoso Miguel , Albert-Fort Mara , Martínez-Costa Lucía
Published: March 2020

Purpose:

To report a case of primary choroidal lymphoma that was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction–based clonality testing.

Case report:

A 50-year-old woman presented with unilateral progressive vision loss. Fundus examination and B-ultrasonography demonstrated diffuse choroidal thickening without vitritis. Pars plana vitrectomy and subretinal biopsy were performed, and histopathologic analysis revealed choroidal B-cell lymphoid hyperplasia without evidence of neoplasia. Extraocular extension was ruled out, and transitory improvement was observed with oral steroids. After 1-year follow-up, she was referred to our hospital and clonality testing was performed using the samples taken months before. First, we used a forensic DNA extraction kit, and then, a multiplex polymerase chain reaction was carried out using the IgH Rearrangements Molecular Analysis Kit. Clonal rearrangement was identified for the immunoglobulin heavy chain framework regions 1 and 2, and B-cell choroidal lymphoma was confirmed. The patient began treatment with intravitreal rituximab, but no response was observed. Finally, complete regression was achieved using external beam radiotherapy.

Conclusion:

Polymerase chain reaction–based clonality testing can be a valuable tool to confirm a choroidal lymphoproliferative process.
The genealogy of the zoo: Collection, park and carnival
Authors: Parker Martin
Published: March 2020

The zoo, like all organizations, is constituted by processes of collection and separation. This article provides a genealogical account of the conditions of possibility of the modern zoological gardens, beginning with the cabinet of curiosities, then the landscape park and the menagerie, and finally the carnival and fair. This leads to a discussion of the foundation of the bourgeois zoo in the 19th century, and its mutation into its contemporary combination of spectacle and civilizing institution. I conclude with some reflections on the dialectic between order and disorder that the zoo exemplifies, an organization which is constructed to civilize and contain, but which is always haunted by the financial need for spectacle and the production of the wild non-human.
Sacred Game: A Goffmanian Ethnography of a Women-Only Public Place in South Korea
Authors: Choi Jongryul , Lee Yeseul
Published: March 2020

Recently, women-only public places have emerged rapidly and become widespread all over South Korea, but very little empirical research has been conducted on how women construct interaction order in such places. This article is a Goffmanian ethnography of how Korean women construct interaction order in a women-only public place. It presents ‘sacred game’ as a conceptual scheme to inform ethnographic research on interaction order. By using this conceptual scheme, we conduct an ethnography of a women-only yoga studio in South Korea. This research shows that women actively engage in sacred game when they appear in a women-only public place where situational proprieties are ambiguous and actions are inconsequential. This research suggests that creating this kind of public place would be better than merely creating a women-only public place itself in order to empower women to form a modern sociability.
‘When one doesn't even exist’: Europeanization, trans* subjectivities and agency in Cyprus
Authors: Kamenou Nayia
Published: March 2020

In the context of Europeanization, transnational LGBTI rights and politics discourses and paradigms interact with local ones. However, the effects of this interaction on trans* people in the margins of ‘Europe’ have received little attention. Drawing from participant observation and interviews with trans* respondents, I examine how trans* subjectivities and politics in Cyprus are shaped amidst this process. I show that institutional responses to trans* claims reinforce trans* marginalization. I find that trans* people are marginalized in, and disappointed by the normalization of, the (trans)national LGBTI movement. I argue that these factors induce alternative modes of everyday trans* politics and community organizing outside NGO structures. Therefore, this article helps decentre trans* studies’ typical focus on Western Europe, North America and Australasia, while offering an analysis of the role of Europeanization in Cypriot LGBTI politics.
Overview of recent cases before the Court of Justice of the European Union (October 2019-January 2020)
Authors: Melin Pauline
Published: March 2020

During the period of reporting (1 October 2019-31 January 2020), six judgments are worth noting in the area of EU social security law. In Safeway, the Court had to decide whether Article 119 of the EC Treaty on equal treatment precluded a measure ending discrimination through the fixing, with retroactive effect, of a uniform normal pension age equal to that of the members within the previously disadvantaged category. In Bocero Torrico, the question related to the obligation on Member States, under Regulation 883/2004, to take into account equivalent benefits acquired in other Member States for the purpose of calculating an early retirement pension. WA concerned a discriminatory law that granted a pension supplement solely to women. UB was about a discriminatory law that granted additional benefits for sportspersons based on their citizenship. In ZP, the question concerned Article 62 of Regulation 883/2004 dealing with the calculation of unemployment benefits. Finally, in Pensions-Sicherungs-Verein, the Court had to interpret Article 8 of Directive 2008/94 in the context of a reduction of pension benefits following the insolvency of the employer.
The gendered relationship with drunkenness among different generations in Mediterranean and Nordic countries
Authors: Rolando Sara , Törrönen Jukka , Beccaria Franca
Published: March 2020

The study adopts a qualitative comparative approach to better understand how different dimensions affect social norms regulating alcohol consumption. Female and male attitudes towards drunkenness were analysed on the basis of data from 27 focus groups involving a total of 166 participants from Italy, Finland and Sweden, grouped by age cohort (17–20 and 50–65 years) and educational level. Results suggest that gendered drinking norms may be affected more by the drinking culture than by the degree of gender equality, thus providing a possible explanation of why gender differences in drinking are not always consistent with broader gender inequalities.
Mentoring strategies and their impact on social workers’ attitudes
Authors: Ben Amram Miri , Shapira-Lishchinsky Orly
Published: March 2020

This study explored different mentoring strategies: simulations and case studies regarding ethical dilemmas involved with employment of intellectual developmental disability workers in supported employment using questionnaires of psychological empowerment, self-efficacy, and attitudes toward employing intellectual developmental disability workers in the free market. Participants were 83 social workers and 60 employers and were divided into simulations, case studies, and control groups. All participants in the simulations and case studies groups attended nine mentoring sessions throughout one year, where they completed questionnaires at the beginning, the end, and six months after mentoring.

Findings

The level of employers’ psychological empowerment and their positive attitudes toward employment of individuals with intellectual developmental disability in their organizations were higher than among the social workers, but the social workers’ self-efficacy level was higher. In addition, we found that mentoring using simulations had more influence than the case studies. The study findings showed that the more dynamic the mentoring, the greater the changes in psychological empowerment perceptions, self-efficacy, and attitudes toward employing intellectual developmental disability workers, both during the study and subsequently.

Applications

There is considerable importance in developing in-service training and active mentoring for all those involved in the challenges of supported employment. Simulations with participation of actors among social workers and employers, regarding ethical challenges in supported employment are the recommended mentoring methods, as compared to the case studies tested in the current study. Therefore, the study findings encourage the development of advanced mentoring processes among social workers and employers based on simulations, for coping with ethical challenges in supported employment.
Long-term Results of Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair for Type B Aortic Dissection and Risk Factors for Survival
Authors: Li Dong-lin , He Yun-jun , Wang Xiao-hui , He Yang-yan , Wu Zi-heng , Zhu Qian-qian , Shang Tao , Zhang Hong-kun
Published: March 2020

Purpose: To compare characteristics of acute, subacute, and chronic type B aortic dissection and their influence on long-term results of thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR). Materials and Methods: In a single-center, retrospective cohort study, 314 patients (median age 52 years; 244 men) with acute (n=165), subacute (n=115), or chronic (n=34) type B aortic dissection underwent TEVAR between January 2009 and December 2013. Patient demographics, risk factors, and imaging characteristics were compared among the groups. Univariable and multivariable Cox regression analyses were performed to identify any factors influencing survival. Results: The acute and subacute patients exhibited more complications at presentation than chronic patients. However, the chronic patients exhibited more aneurysmal dilatation (p<0.001) and true lumen collapse (p<0.001). Over a mean follow-up of 68.1±22.9 months (range 2–108), subacute patients showed a lower reintervention rate (3.6% vs 12.1% vs 12.1%, p=0.045), a lower major complication rate (14.4% vs 33.1% vs 27.3%, p=0.002), and better cumulative overall survival (p=0.03) than the acute and chronic groups, respectively. Furthermore, acute patients developed more stent-graft–induced distal erosion (p=0.017) and retrograde type A dissection (RTAD) (p=0.036), whereas chronic patients had less aortic remodeling in the stented segment (p<0.001), distal thoracic aorta (p<0.001), and abdominal aorta (p=0.047). Finally, multivariable analysis demonstrated age >52 years, visceral malperfusion, and RTAD as independent factors influencing overall survival; aneurysmal dilatation, rupture/impending rupture, and RTAD were independent factors influencing aorta-specific survival. Conclusion: Acute and subacute patients had increased risks of rupture and complications at presentation, whereas chronic patients had increased risks for aneurysmal dilatation. From a long-term perspective, the subacute phase might be an optimal time for TEVAR in cases of type B aortic dissection that do not need emergent interventions. The risk factors influencing survival should be identified, carefully managed, and possibly prevented.
A New Risk Index Combining d-Dimer, Fibrinogen, HE4, and CA199 Differentiates Suspecting Endometrial Cancer From Patients With Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding or Discharge
Authors: Ge Lili , Liu Guangquan , Hu Kai , Huang Ke , zhang Mi , Zhou Juan , Teng Fang , Cao Jian , Dai Chencheng , Jia Xuemei
Published: March 2020

Purpose:

To establish an efficient new risk index for screening patients with endometrial cancer from patients with abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge.

Method:

A total of 254 patients with abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge were included in this study. Several candidate markers, including HE4, CA125, CA199, CA153, AFP, CEA, d-dimer, and fibrinogen, were employed. A new risk index for endometrial cancer screening was established by binary logistic regression. The diagnostic value of the candidate markers and the new risk index were assessed by a receiver operating characteristic curve, sensitivity, and specificity.

Results:

The most valuable diagnostic indicator for endometrial cancer was HE4, followed by d-dimer and then fibrinogen (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve: HE4 = 0.794, d-dimer = 0.717, fibrinogen = 0.690). The new risk index was superior to a single application of markers and a widely used combination (HE4 and CA125). At the ideal cutoff level, the sensitivity and specificity were 91.34% and 70.08%, respectively. In addition, only patients without organic disease served as controls, which further increase its performance (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve = 0.932, sensitivity = 94.49%, and specificity = 77.42%).

Conclusions:

The new risk index combining HE4, d-dimer, fibrinogen, and CA199 was the ideal combination for the screening of endometrial cancer. As a simple, rapid, nondestructive detection method, the new risk index is worth promotion in clinical practice, especially in primary medical institutions.
Federal Urban Renewal in Three Small Texas Cities: A Mixed Legacy
Authors: Fairbanks Robert B.
Published: March 2020

When it comes to the federal urban renewal program, Texas has often been dismissed as a conservative state since large cities like Dallas and Houston refused to participate. But a closer look at Texas shows that smaller cities such as Lubbock, Waco, and Grand Prairie did indeed embrace the program. Unlike northern cities which employed urban renewal to retard decline, these Texas cities embraced it to promote growth and to improve race relations. Because of segregation, blacks had few standard neighborhoods to reside in and civic leaders saw new opportunities to better black living conditions offered by urban renewal.
A health management system for large vertical mill
Authors: Han Sugai , Li Ansheng , Wang Hongchao , Gong Xiaoyun , Wang Liangwen , Huang Yixiang , Li Yanming , Du Wenliao
Published: March 2020

The large vertical mill has complicated structure and tens of thousands of parts, which is a critical grinding equipment for slag and cinder. As large vertical mill always works in severe conditions, the on-line monitoring, timely fault diagnosis, and trend prediction are very important guarantees for the safe service and saving maintaining costs. To address this issue, the health management system for large vertical mill is developed. More specifically, in order to manage reservoirs of state-related running data, the intrinsic physic data, and diagnosis knowledge base, an entity-relationship-model-based database is first constructed. Based on the fault diagnosis reasoning of experts, the fault tree is developed and the fault diagnosis rules are derived. Especially, a hybrid condition prognosis method based on backtracking search optimization algorithm and neural network is developed, and in comparison with traditional back propagation neural network and ant colony neural network, the developed backtracking search optimization algorithm and neural network gets superior hybrid prediction performance in prediction accuracy and training efficiency. Finally, the health management system, including the functions of condition monitoring, fault diagnosis, and trend prediction for large vertical mill is implemented using Microsoft Visual Studio C # and Microsoft SQL Server.
Distributed networked localization using neighboring distances only through a computational topology control approach
Authors: Wang Xiaochu , Sun Ting , Sun Changhao , Wang Junqi
Published: March 2020

For large-scale wireless sensor networks, the nonlinear localization problem where only neighboring distances are available to each individual sensor nodes have been attracting great research attention. In general, distributed algorithms for this problem are likely to suffer from the failures that localizations are trapped in local minima. Focusing on this issue, this article considers a fully distributed algorithm by introducing a novel mechanism, where each individual node is allowed to computationally interact with a random subset of its neighbors, for helping localizations escape from local minima. Theoretical analyses reveal that with the proposed algorithm, any local minimum of the localization will be unstable, and the global optimum would finally be achieved with probability 1 after enough time of iterations. Numerical simulations are given as well to demonstrate the effectiveness of the algorithm.
Autoregressive integrated moving average model–based secure data aggregation for wireless sensor networks
Authors: Song Hongtao , Sui Shanshan , Han Qilong , Zhang Hui , Yang Zaiqiang
Published: March 2020

Nodes in a wireless sensor network are normally constrained by hardware and environmental conditions and face challenges of reduced computing capabilities and system security vulnerabilities. This fact calls for special requirements for network protocol design, security assessment models, and energy-efficient algorithms. Data aggregation is an effective energy conservation technique, which removes redundant information from the data aggregated from neighbor sensor nodes. How to further improve the effectiveness of data aggregation plays an important role in improving data collection accuracy and reducing the overall network energy consumption. Unfortunately, sensor nodes are normally deployed in an open environment and thus are subject to various attacks conducted by adversaries. Consequently, data aggregation brings new challenges to wireless sensor network security. In this article, we propose a novel secure data aggregation solution based on autoregressive integrated moving average model, a time series analysis technique, to prevent private data from being learned by adversaries. We leverage the autoregressive integrated moving average model to predict the data volume in sensor nodes, and update and synchronize the model as needed. The experimental results demonstrate that our model provides accurate predictions and that, compared with competing methods, our solution achieves better security, lower computation and communication costs, and better flexibility.
Parallel tracking and detection for long-term object tracking
Authors: Xiong Dan , Lu Huimin , Yu Qinghua , Xiao Junhao , Han Wei , Zheng Zhiqiang
Published: March 2020

High tracking frame rates have been achieved based on traditional tracking methods which however would fail due to drifts of the object template or model, especially when the object disappears from the camera’s field of view. To deal with it, tracking-and-detection-combination has become more and more popular for long-term unknown object tracking, whose detector almost does not drift and can regain the disappeared object when it comes back. However, for online machine learning and multiscale object detection, expensive computing resources and time are required. So it is not a good idea to combine tracking and detection sequentially like Tracking-Learning-Detection algorithm. Inspired from parallel tracking and mapping, this article proposes a framework of parallel tracking and detection for unknown object tracking. The object tracking algorithm is split into two separate tasks—tracking and detection which can be processed in two different threads, respectively. One thread is used to deal with the tracking between consecutive frames with a high processing speed. The other thread runs online learning algorithms to construct a discriminative model for object detection. Using our proposed framework, high tracking frame rates and the ability of correcting and recovering the failed tracker can be combined effectively. Furthermore, our framework provides open interfaces to integrate state-of-the-art object tracking and detection algorithms. We carry out an evaluation of several popular tracking and detection algorithms using the proposed framework. The experimental results show that different tracking and detection algorithms can be integrated and compared effectively by our proposed framework, and robust and fast long-term object tracking can be realized.
A visual SLAM method based on point-line fusion in weak-matching scene
Authors: Fang Baofu , Zhan Zhiqiang
Published: March 2020

Visual simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) is well-known to be one of the research areas in robotics. There are many challenges in traditional point feature-based approaches, such as insufficient point features, motion jitter, and low localization accuracy in low-texture scenes, which reduce the performance of the algorithms. In this article, we propose an RGB-D SLAM system to handle these situations, which is named Point-Line Fusion (PLF)-SLAM. We utilize both points and line segments throughout the process of our work. Specifically, we present a new line segment extraction method to solve the overlap or branch problem of the line segments, and then a more rigorous screening mechanism is proposed in the line matching section. Instead of minimizing the reprojection error of points, we introduce the reprojection error based on points and lines to get a more accurate tracking pose. In addition, we come up with a solution to handle the jitter frame, which greatly improves tracking success rate and availability of the system. We thoroughly evaluate our system on the Technische Universität München (TUM) RGB-D benchmark and compare it with ORB-SLAM2, presumably the current state-of-the-art solution. The experiments show that our system has better accuracy and robustness compared to the ORB-SLAM2.
A fast calibration approach for onboard LiDAR-camera systems
Authors: Erke Shang , Bin Dai , Yiming Nie , Liang Xiao , Qi Zhu
Published: March 2020

Outdoor surveillance and security robots have a wide range of industrial, military, and civilian applications. In order to achieve autonomous navigation, the LiDAR-camera system is widely applied by outdoor surveillance and security robots. The calibration of the LiDAR-camera system is essential and important for robots to correctly acquire the scene information. This article proposes a fast calibration approach that is different from traditional calibration algorithms. The proposed approach combines two independent calibration processes, which are the calibration of LiDAR and the camera to robot platform, so as to address the relationship between LiDAR sensor and camera sensor. A novel approach to calibrate LiDAR to robot platform is applied to improve accuracy and robustness. A series of indoor experiments are carried out and the results show that the proposed approach is effective and efficient. At last, it is applied to our own outdoor security robot platform to detect both positive and negative obstacles in a field environment, in which two Velodyne-HDL-32 LiDARs and a color camera are employed. The real application illustrates the robustness performance of the proposed approach.
Preoperative computed tomography-guided coil localization for multiple lung nodules
Authors: Teng Fei , Wu An-Le , Yang Shan , Lin Jia , Xian Yu-Tao , Fu Yu-Fei
Published: March 2020

Background:

Preoperative computed tomography (CT)-guided coil localization can increase the technical success of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS)-guided diagnostic wedge resection of lung nodules relative to cases treated without localization. When multiple lung nodules (MLNs) are to be resected, preoperative localization for each lung nodule is required. The aim of this study was to explore the feasibility, safety, and clinical efficacy of preoperative CT-guided coil localization of MLNs.

Methods:

Between November 2015 and July 2019, 31 patients with MLNs were assessed via CT-guided coil localization followed by VATS-guided wedge resection. Rates of technical success for both the localization and wedge resection procedures, as well as data pertaining to patient complication rates and long-term outcomes were recorded and assessed.

Results:

In total, 68 nodules (average of 2.2 nodules/patient) were localized and resected using this approach. Nodules were unilateral and bilateral in 23 and 8 patients, respectively. The rate of CT-guided coil localization technical success for these nodules was 98.5% (67/68), with a technical success rate of single-stage coil localization on a per-patient basis of 96.8% (30/31). Following localization, asymptomatic pneumothorax occurred in four patients (12.9%). The wedge resection technical success rate was 100%. Mean VATS operative time was 167.3 ± 75.2 min, with a mean blood loss of 92.6 ± 61.5 ml. Patients were followed between 3 and 46 months (median: 24 months), with no evidence of new nodules, distant metastases, or postoperative complications in any patients.

Conclusion:

Preoperative CT-guided multiple coil localization can be easily and safely used to guide single-stage VATS diagnostic wedge resection in patients with MLNs. The reviews of this paper are available via the supplemental material section.
Widespread expression of Sonic hedgehog (Shh) and Nrf2 in patients treated with cisplatin predicts outcome in resected tumors and are potential therapeutic targets for HPV-negative head and neck cancer
Authors: Noman Abu Shadat M. , Parag Rashed R. , Rashid Muhammad I. , Rahman Mohammad Z. , Chowdhury Ali A. , Sultana Afrin , Jerin Chandsultana , Siddiqua Ayesha , Rahman Lutfur , Shirin Afsana , Nayeem Junayed , Mahmud Reaz , Akther Sonam , Shil Rajib K. , Hossain Ikram , Alam Sharmin , Chowdhury Arfina , Basher Shabnam B. , Hasan Abul , Bithy Shammy , Aklima Jannatul , Rahman Mizanur , Chowdhury Nabila , Banu Tahmina , Karakas Bedri , Yeger Herman , Farhat Walid A. , Islam Syed S.
Published: March 2020

Background:

Sonic hedgehog (Shh) and Nrf2 play a critical role in chemotherapeutic resistance. These two genes have been found to be dysregulated in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC). The purpose of this study was to analyze the expression, function and clinical prognostic relationship of Shh and Nrf2 in HNSCC in the context of therapeutic resistance and cancer stem cells (CSCs).

Methods:

We analyzed a cohort of patients with HNSCC to identify potential therapeutic biomarkers correlating with overall survival (OS) as well as disease-free survival (DFS) from our own data and validated these results using The Cancer Genome Atlas dataset. Expression of Shh and Nrf2 was knocked down by siRNA and cell growth, sphere growth and chemotherapeutic resistance were evaluated.

Results:

Widespread abundant expression of Shh and Nrf2 proteins were associated with shorter OS and DFS. The combination of Shh and Nrf2 expression levels was found to be a significant predictor of patient DFS. The tumor stromal index was correlated with Shh expression and inversely associated with shorter OS and DFS. Inhibition of Shh by siRNA or cyclopamine resulted in the attenuation of resistant CSC self-renewal, invasion, clonogenic growth and re-sensitization to the chemotherapeutic agents. Concomitant upregulation of Shh and Nrf2 proved to be an independent predictor of poor OS and DFS in patients with HNSCC.

Conclusions:

These findings suggest that Shh and Nrf2 could serve as therapeutic targets as well as promising dual prognostic therapeutic biomarkers for HNSCC.
Prognostic value of respiratory index in haemodynamically stable patients with acute pulmonary embolism: The Respiratory Index model study
Authors: Vedovati Maria Cristina , Cimini Ludovica Anna , Pierpaoli Lucia , Vanni Simone , Cotugno Marilena , Pruszczyk Piotr , Di Filippo Francesco , Stefanone Valerio , Torrecillas Leticia Guirado , Kozlowska Marta , De Natale Maria Grazia , Mannucci Federica , Agnelli Giancarlo , Becattini Cecilia
Published: March 2020

Background:

Current strategies for prognostic stratification in haemodynamically stable patients with acute pulmonary embolism require improvement. The aims of this study in haemodynamically stable patients with acute pulmonary embolism were (a) to evaluate the prognostic value of a novel respiratory index (oxygen saturation in air to respiratory rate ratio) and (b) to derive a risk model which includes the respiratory index and evaluate its value in predicting 30-day mortality.

Methods:

Prospective cohorts of haemodynamically stable patients with acute pulmonary embolism were merged to a collaborative database that served to create two subsequent derivation and validation cohorts based on a temporal criterion. The study outcome was 30-day all-cause death.

Results:

Thirty-day all-cause death occurred in 7.5% and in 6.9% of patients in the derivation and validation cohorts (each composed of 319 patients). In the derivation cohort, the respiratory index (odds ratio 0.66, 95% confidence interval 0.48–0.90) and simplified Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index (odds ratio 9.16, 95% confidence interval 1.22–68.89) were predictors of 30-day mortality. The cut-off value of the respiratory index ⩽3.8 was identified to best predict 30-day all-cause death (15.4% vs 5.0%, odds ratio 2.94, 95% confidence interval 1.22–7.11). The respiratory index ⩽3.8 was combined with the simplified Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index to create the Respiratory Index model that showed a good discriminatory power in the derivation (c-statistic 0.703, 95% confidence interval 0.60–0.80) and in the validation cohort (c-statistic 0.838, 95% confidence interval 0.768–0.907).

Conclusion:

In hemodynamically stable patients with acute pulmonary embolism, the respiratory index was an independent predictor of 30-day all-cause death. The Respiratory Index model which includes the simplified Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index and the respiratory index, provides a good risk stratification of haemodynamically stable patients with acute pulmonary embolism.
Exploring Patients’ Insight, Concerns, and Expectations at Dermatology Clinic: An Observational Study in 2 Centers in Scotland and Spain
Authors: Martínez-García Eliseo , Affleck Andrew , Rakvit Pariyawan , Arias-Santiago Salvador , Buendía-Eisman Agustín
Published: March 2020

Background:

Effective doctor–patient communication is of great importance in order to optimize medical consultation outcomes. However, it can be difficult to address all patients’ concerns and expectations in clinic.

Objective:

To identify how much patients know about their medical condition, their fears and concerns, and their expectations, as well as evaluate the benefits of using a preconsultation questionnaire routinely.

Methods:

This study included consecutive patients attending dermatology outpatients from Dundee (Scotland) and Granada (Spain) who completed a simple preconsultation 3-part questionnaire. Answers to this questionnaire were discussed during clinic visits.

Results:

Two hundred patients participated in the study. Of all, 111 (55.5%) patients already knew their diagnosis or were able to describe their symptoms and/or feelings quite accurately at their visit to Dermatology. Most patients (85%) had fears regarding their dermatological problem. A majority of patients (97%) came to clinic with specific expectations, and many (41.5%) had multiple expectations. A high proportion of patients (74%) found the questionnaire useful.

Conclusion:

Patients attend clinic with different levels of knowledge, fears, and expectations. We recommend using a brief and easy to use preconsultation questionnaire as a cost-effective way of enhancing doctor–patient communication.