bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Whole‐Exome Sequencing Identifies a Novel TRPM4 Mutation in a Chinese Family with Atrioventricular Block
Authors: Dong Yi , Du Ran , Fan Liang-liang , Jin Jie-yuan , Huang Hao , Chen Ya-qin , Bi Dan-dong , Xiang Rong
Published: April 2021

Atrioventricular block (AVB) is a leading cause of sudden cardiac death, and most of AVB cases are presented as autosomal dominant. The electrocardiogram of AVB patients presents an abnormal progressive cardiac conduction disorder between atria and ventricles. Transient receptor potential melastatin 4 (TRPM4) is a nonselective Ca2+‐activated cation channel gene defined as a novel disease‐causing gene of AVB. So far, 47 mutations of TRPM4 have been recorded in Human Gene Mutation Database. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between TRPM4 mutation and pathogenesis of AVB. We investigated a Chinese family with AVB by whole‐exome sequencing. An arrhythmia‐related gene filtering strategy was used to analyze the disease‐causing mutations. Three different bioinformatics programs were used to predict the effects of the mutation result. A novel mutation of TRPM4 was identified (c.2455C>T/p.R819C) and cosegregated in the affected family members. The three bioinformatics programs predicted that the novel mutation may lead to damage. Our study will contribute to expand the spectrum of TRPM4 mutations and supply accurate genetic testing information for further research and the clinical therapy of AVB.
Research on the Digitization of Manufacturing Will Enhance the Competitiveness of the Value Chain Based on Advantage Comparison
Authors: Wu You-Qun , Lu Huai-Xin , Liao Xin-Lin , Zhu Jia-Ming
Published: April 2021

This paper uses WIOD data to calculate and analyze the dominant comparative advantage of Chinese manufacturing global value chain (GVC) based on the WWZ method and empirically studies the influence of digitization on the competitiveness of manufacturing GVC. The main findings are as follows: (1) The competitiveness of Chinese manufacturing GVC has been improved as a whole. The GVC competitiveness of different types of industries is quite different: GVC in middle‐ and low‐knowledge‐intensive industries have the highest competitiveness, while those with middle‐ and high‐knowledge‐intensive industries have the lowest competitiveness and apparent shortboard industries. (2) Digitization is conducive for enhancing the competitiveness of manufacturing GVC. In terms of industries, digitization has a significant positive effect on the GVC competitiveness of middle and high‐knowledge‐intensive industries but not on low knowledge ones. As for the sources of digital input, the positive effect is more outstanding. Also, it is more remarkable when it comes to the software and information technology service industry. (3) As for the mechanism of action, labor productivity is an effective way to improve the manufacturing GVC competitiveness digitally. Finally, after a robustness test, the positive effect of the digital input remains robust.
[Retracted] Optimization of IoT‐Based Motion Intelligence Monitoring System
Authors: Qiao Jian , Zhang Zhendong , Chen Enqing
Published: April 2021

We design and implement an intelligent IoT‐based motion monitoring system to realize the monitoring of three important parameters, namely, the type of movement, the number of movements, and the period of movement in physical activities, and optimize the system to support the simultaneous use by multiple users. Considering the motion monitoring scenario for smart fit, the framework of an IoT‐based motion monitoring system is proposed. The framework contains components such as active acquisition nodes, wireless access points, data processing servers, and terminals. In terms of algorithm optimization, research related to active pattern recognition and periodic calculation methods is conducted. For active pattern recognition, two types of classification algorithms with different complexity are proposed based on Support Vector Machine (SVM) and deep neural networks, respectively, to adapt to scenarios with different computational capabilities. For period calculation, a method based on over‐zero detection and wavelet transform is proposed to count the number of actions and calculate the period of each action. In 100 times action cycle calculation experiments, the count statistic calculation method achieves 100% calculation accuracy and the active cycle calculation results are close to the real value, which proves the effectiveness of the cycle calculation method. The system provides a multiuser‐oriented communication method and realizes accurate and reliable human movement monitoring, which has a wide application prospect in the fields of physical education and rehabilitation training.
[Retracted] Optimization of Teaching Evaluation System for Football Professional Teachers Based on Multievaluation Model
Authors: Chen Zhiqiang , Chen Qingguo
Published: April 2021

The introduction of multiple intelligence theory into sports professional football teaching is a requirement of educational innovation, which helps to expand and play the multiple functions of football, and can effectively improve the comprehensive quality of football professional science. Under the perspective of multiple intelligence theory, college sports professional football teaching will focus on the all‐round development of students, actively cultivate students’ multiple intelligence, and reflect the democratization, individualization, and diversification of teaching in the process of educational concept innovation. This article explains the origin and characteristics of the particle swarm optimization algorithm and discusses the application status of the PSO algorithm in detail. We introduced the standard PSO algorithm, including mathematical forms, iteration steps, and flowcharts. In addition, it also specifically describes the proposed new PSO improved algorithm, including the food chain strategy and reproduction strategy, as well as the implementation of the algorithm. Through analysis, it is concluded that the implementation and implementation of relevant systems is the guarantee for the sustained and sound development of campus football. The amount of football lessons is insufficient, and the classroom teaching effect is not ideal. Physical education teachers are acceptable, but the football professional knowledge training of physical education teachers needs to be strengthened. The selection and setting of the teaching content of football lessons lack systematic, scientific, and adaptable, and the teaching methods and teaching model concepts are backward. In the process of football teaching, teachers ignored the evaluation and assessment of students’ nonphysical and nonintellectual factors, and campus football activities did not achieve the expected goals.
[Retracted] Communication Network for Sports Activity Monitoring Systems
Authors: Li Yuhua , Wan Lishuang , Zhang Haimin
Published: April 2021

In this paper, through research and analysis of the communication network of the physical activity monitoring system, we combine wearable technology and identification technology and design a physical health monitoring bracelet that integrates multifaceted physical data collection and effective identity matching function. We match the identity through the chip and collect the physical fitness data generated in the process of exercise and centralized test by the sensor in real‐time. Finally, the data transmission is realized through the WIFI communication function to achieve the purpose of monitoring physical exercise and improving physical quality. To ensure the continuity and stability of information transmission, the joint transmission method of direct transmission and indirect transmission is essential. Besides, considering the energy causality limitation of sensor nodes and relay nodes, a collaborative transmission model of wireless body area network based on wireless cognitive network is constructed. And, a power allocation algorithm based on maximum ratio merging and wireless cognitive network is proposed, which puts forward a new idea for the future research of wireless body area network resource allocation.
Select Antitumor Cytotoxic CD8+ T Clonotypes Expand in Patients with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Treated with Ibrutinib
Authors: Baptista Maria Joao , Baskar Sivasubramanian , Gaglione Erika M. , Keyvanfar Keyvan , Ahn Inhye E. , Wiestner Adrian , Sun Clare
Published: April 2021

Purpose:

In chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), the T-cell receptor (TCR) repertoire is skewed and tumor-derived antigens are hypothesized as drivers of oligoclonal expansion. Ibrutinib, a standard treatment for CLL, inhibits not only Bruton tyrosine kinase of the B-cell receptor signaling pathway, but also IL2-inducible kinase of the TCR signaling pathway. T-cell polarization and activation are affected by ibrutinib, but it is unknown whether T cells contribute to clinical response.

Experimental Design:

High-throughput TCRβ sequencing was performed in 77 longitudinal samples from 26 patients with CLL treated with ibrutinib. TCRβ usage in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and granzyme B expression were assessed by flow cytometric analysis. Antitumor cytotoxicity of T cells expanded with autologous CLL cells or with antigen-independent anti-CD3/CD28/CD137 beads was tested.

Results:

The clonality of the TCR repertoire increased at the time of response. With extended treatment, TCR clonality remained stable in patients with sustained remission and decreased in patients with disease progression. Expanded clonotypes were rarely shared between patients, indicating specificity for private antigens. Flow cytometry demonstrated a predominance of CD8+ cells among expanded clonotypes. Importantly, bulk T cells from responding patients were cytotoxic against autologous CLL cells in vitro and selective depletion of major expanded clonotypes reduced CLL cell killing.

Conclusions:

In patients with CLL, established T-cell responses directed against tumor are suppressed by disease and reactivated by ibrutinib.

See related commentary by Zent, p. 4465
CyberKnife Stereotactic Radiotherapy in Secondary Vasoproliferative Tumor of the Retina
Authors: İpek Şefik Can , Tunç Murat , Oysul Kaan , Yaman Aylin , Saatci Ali Osman
Published: April 2021

A 16-year-old boy with X-linked retinoschisis was examined for the visual decline on his left eye. Upon examination, a vasopermeable elevated mass lesion was determined at the lower temporal retinal periphery associated with surrounding arc-like hard exudates which is consistent with a vasoactive proliferative tumor of the retina. After discussing the therapeutic options with the patient and his parents, 3 successive dexamethasone implants 6 months apart were administered. As no satisfactory regression was noticed, CyberKnife stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) was performed. Regression of the exudative tumor was obtained in follow-up examinations at 12 and 24 months after the SRS session and the thickness of the lesion was markedly reduced.
Local Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 Gene Expression in Kidney Allografts Is Not Affected by Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone Inhibitors
Authors: Cahova Monika , Kveton Martin , Petr Vojtech , Funda David , Dankova Helena , Viklicky Ondrej , Hruba Petra
Published: April 2021

Background: Preclinical studies suggested that pharmacological inhibition of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) by ACE inhibitors (ACEis) or angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) may increase local angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) expression. Methods: In this study, we evaluated the effect of ACEi or ARB treatment on expression of ACE2, ACE, and AGTR1 in 3-month protocol kidney allograft biopsies of stable patients using RT-qPCR (n = 48). Protein ACE2 expression was assessed using immunohistochemistry from paraffin sections. Results: The therapy with RAAS blockers was not associated with increased ACE2, ACE, or ATGR1 expression in kidney allografts and also ACE2 protein immunohistochemistry did not reveal differences among groups. Conclusions: ACEis or ARBs in kidney transplant recipients do not affect local ACE2 expression. This observation supports long-term RAAS treatment in kidney transplant recipients, despite acute complications such as COVID-19 where ACE2 serves as the entry protein for infection.
Induction of Immune Responses and Immune Evasion by Human Bocavirus
Authors: Bhat Rauf , Almajhdi Fahad N.
Published: April 2021

Respiratory tract infections are the primary cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Human bocavirus 1 (HBoV1), a member of the Parvoviridae family causes a wide spectrum of respiratory diseases in children, and gastroenteritis in adults. The mechanisms of latency, persistence, and reinfection of Bocavirus are poorly understood at present due to the lack of permissive cell lines and efficient animal models. Moreover, the dual infections of HBoV and other respiratory viruses further complicate the study of the pathogenicity of Bocaviruses. The data on immunological consequences of Bocavirus infection are sparse. However, the existing data have highlighted the role of CD4 T cells in Bocavirus infection. High titres of HBoV-specific antibodies have been detected in different populations suggesting its ubiquitous prevalence. Interestingly, the mechanism employed by Bocavirus to evade the immune system mostly targets type I IFN pathways and cause pyroptotic cell death of host cells. This review summarizes the immune responses evoked in response to Bocavirus infection, escape mechanism employed by the virus, and the vaccination strategies, including antisense technology to combat Bocavirus infections.
Potential Role of the Galectin-9/TIM-3 Axis in the Disparate Progression of SARS-CoV-2 in a Married Couple: A Case Report
Authors: Martín-Quirós Alejandro , Maroun-Eid Charbel , Avendaño-Ortiz José , Lozano-Rodríguez Roberto , Valentín Quiroga Jaime , Terrón Verónica , Montalbán-Hernández Karla , García-Garrido Miguel A. , Muñoz del Val Elena , del Balzo-Castillo Álvaro , Rubio Carolina , Cubillos-Zapata Carolina , Aguirre Luis A. , López-Collazo Eduardo
Published: April 2021

We report the disparate clinical progression of a couple infected by SARS-CoV-2 based on their immune checkpoint (IC) levels and immune cell distribution in blood from admission to exitus in patient 1 and from admission to discharge and recovery in patient 2. A detailed clinical follow-up accompanied by a longitudinal analysis of immune phenotypes and IC levels is shown. The continuous increase in the soluble IC ligand galectin-9 (Gal-9) and the increment in T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain-containing 3 (TIM-3) protein in T cells in patient 1 suggests an activation of the Gal-9/TIM-3 axis and, subsequently, a potential cell exhaustion in this patient that did not occur in patient 2. Our data indicate that the Gal-9/TIM-3 axis could be a potential target in this clinical setting, along with a patent effector memory T-cell reduction.
Baseline Characteristics and Survival of an Australian Interstitial Pneumonia with Autoimmune Features Cohort
Authors: Jee Adelle S. , Parker Matthew J.S. , Bleasel Jane F. , Troy Lauren K. , Lau Edmund M. , Jo Helen E. , Teoh Alan K.Y. , Adelstein Stephen , Webster Susanne , Corte Tamera J.
Published: April 2021

Background and objective: The research term “interstitial pneumonia with autoimmune features” (IPAF) encompasses interstitial lung disease (ILD) patients with autoimmune features not meeting diagnostic criteria for a defined connective tissue disease (CTD). It remains unclear if IPAF is a distinct disease entity with implications for management and prognosis. We describe an Australian IPAF population and compare their baseline characteristics and outcomes with distinct cohorts of idiopathic interstitial pneumonia (IIP), CTD-ILD, and unclassifiable ILD. Methods: Review of 291 consecutive patients attending a specialist ILD clinic was performed. Patients with a diagnosis of IIP, CTD-ILD, and unclassifiable ILD by ILD-multidisciplinary meeting (ILD-MDM) were included. Patients meeting the IPAF criteria were identified. Baseline clinical data, survival, and progression were compared between ILD groups. Results: 226 patients were included, 36 meeting the IPAF criteria. IPAF patients demonstrated a high prevalence of autoantibodies to tRNA synthetase (35.3%), Ro52 (27.8%), and neutrophilic cytoplasmic antigens (ANCA; 20.0%). IPAF and CTD-ILD patients demonstrated similar clinical characteristics (mean age 66.6 and 63.7 years, respectively, female predominant, frequent CTD-manifestations). Lung function did not differ between ILD groups. Disease severity, pulmonary hypertension (PH), and ILD-MDM diagnosis were strong predictors of worse transplant-free survival (TFS). Meeting the IPAF criteria was not associated with TFS. Conclusions: We identified IPAF as a heterogeneous phenotype that overlaps considerably with CTD-ILD. Disease severity, PH, and ILD-MDM diagnosis were more powerful predictors of survival outcomes than meeting the IPAF criteria.
The Role of Serum Chloride in Acute and Chronic Heart Failure: A Narrative Review
Authors: Rivera Frederick Berro , Alfonso Pia , Golbin Jem Marie , Lo Kevin , Lerma Edgar , Volgman Annabelle Santos , Kazory Amir
Published: April 2021

Clinical guidelines include diuretics for the treatment of heart failure (HF), not to decrease mortality but to decrease symptoms and hospitalizations. More attention has been paid to the worse outcomes, including mortality, associated with continual diuretic therapy due to hypochloremia. Studies have revealed a pivotal role for serum chloride in the pathophysiology of HF and is now a target of treatment to decrease mortality. The prognostic value of serum chloride in HF has been the subject of much attention. Mechanistically, the macula densa, a region in the renal juxtaglomerular apparatus, relies on chloride levels to sense salt and volume status. The recent discovery of with-no-lysine (K) (WNK) protein kinase as an intracellular chloride sensor sheds light on the possible reason of diuretic resistance in HF. The action of chloride on WNKs results in the upregulation of the sodium-potassium-chloride cotransporter and sodium-chloride cotransporter receptors, which could lead to increased electrolyte and fluid reabsorption. Genetic studies have revealed that a variant of a voltage-sensitive chloride channel (CLCNKA) gene leads to almost a 50% decrease in current amplitude and function of the renal chloride channel. This variant increases the risk of HF. Several trials exploring the prognostic value of chloride in both acute and chronic HF have shown mostly positive results, some even suggesting a stronger role than sodium. However, so far, interventional trials exploring serum chloride as a therapeutic target have been largely inconclusive. This study is a review of the pathophysiologic effects of hypochloremia in HF, the genetics of chloride channels, and clinical trials that are underway to investigate novel approaches to HF management.
Trends in 30- and 90-Day Readmission Rates for Heart Failure
Authors: Khan Muhammad Shahzeb , Sreenivasan Jayakumar , Lateef Noman , Abougergi Marwan S. , Greene Stephen J. , Ahmad Tariq , Anker Stefan D. , Fonarow Gregg C. , Butler Javed
Published: April 2021

Background:

The impact of hospital readmission reduction program (HRRP) on heart failure (HF) outcomes has been debated. Limited data exist regarding trends of HF readmission rates beyond 30 days from all-payer sources. The aim of this study was to investigate temporal trends of 30- and 90-day HF readmissions rates from 2010 to 2017 in patients from all-payer sources.

Methods:

The National Readmission Database was utilized to identify HF hospitalizations between 2010 and 2017. In the primary analysis, a linear trend in 30-day and 90-day readmissions from 2010 to 2017 was assessed. While in the secondary analysis, a change in aggregated 30- and 90-day all-cause and HF-specific readmissions pre-HRRP penalty phase (2010–2012) and post-HRRP penalties (2013–2017) was compared. Subgroup analyses were performed based on (1) Medicare versus non-Medicare insurance, (2) low versus high HF volume, and (3) HF with reduced versus preserved ejection fraction (heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction). Multiple logistic and adjusted linear regression analyses were performed for annual trends.

Results:

A total of 6 669 313 index HF hospitalizations for 30-day, and 5 077 949 index HF hospitalizations for 90-day readmission, were included. Of these, 1 213 402 (18.2%) encounters had a readmission within 30 days, and 1 585 445 (31.2%) encounters had a readmission within 90 days. Between 2010 and 2017, both 30 and 90 days adjusted HF-specific and all-cause readmissions increased (8.1% to 8.7%,
P
trend 0.04, and 18.3% to 19.9%,
P
trend <0.001 for 30-day and 14.8% to 16.0% and 30.9% to 34.6% for 90-day,
P
trend <0.001 for both, respectively). Readmission rates were higher during the post-HRRP penalty period compared with pre-HRRP penalty phase (all-cause readmission 30 days: 18.6% versus 17.5%,
P
<0.001, all-cause readmission 90 days: 32.0% versus 29.9%,
P
<0.001) across all subgroups except among the low-volume hospitals.

Conclusions:

The rates of adjusted HF-specific and all-cause 30- and 90-day readmissions have increased from 2010 to 2017. Readmissions rates were higher during the HRRP phase across all subgroups except the low-volume hospitals.
Predictors of Early Infarct Recurrence in Patients With Symptomatic Intracranial Atherosclerotic Disease
Authors: Prabhakaran Shyam , Liebeskind David S. , Cotsonis George , Nizam Azhar , Feldmann Edward , Sangha Rajbeer S. , Campo-Bustillo Iszet , Romano Jose G. ,   on behalf of the MYRIAD Investigators
Published: April 2021

Background and Purpose:

While prior studies identified risk factors for recurrent stroke in patients with symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic disease, few have assessed risk factors for early infarct recurrence.

Methods:

We performed a post hoc analysis of the MYRIAD study (Mechanisms of Early Recurrence in Intracranial Atherosclerotic Disease) of intracranial atherosclerotic disease patients with recent (<21 days) stroke/transient ischemic attack, 50% to 99% stenosis and who underwent 6- to 8-week magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) per protocol. Infarct recurrence was defined as new infarcts in the territory of the symptomatic artery on brain MRI at 6 to 8 weeks compared to index brain MRI. Qualifying events and clinical and imaging outcomes were centrally ascertained by 2 independent reviewers. We assessed the association between baseline clinical and imaging variables and recurrent infarct in bivariate models and multivariable logistic regression to identify independent predictors of infarct recurrence.

Results:

Of 105 enrolled patients in MYRIAD, 89 (84.8%) were included in this analysis (mean age, 64±12 years, 54 [60.7%] were male, and 53 [59.6%] were White). The median time from qualifying event to MRI was 51+16 days, on which 22 (24.7%) patients had new or recurrent infarcts. Younger age (57.7 versus 66.0 years;
P
<0.01), diabetes (32.6% versus 14.6%,
P
=0.05), index stroke (31.3% versus 4.6%,
P
=0.01), anterior circulation location of stenosis (29.7% versus 12.0%,
P
=0.08), number of diffusion-weighted imaging lesions (>1: 40.0%, 1: 26.9% versus 0: 4.4%,
P
<0.01), and borderzone infarct pattern (63.6% versus 25.0%,
P
=0.01) on baseline MRI were associated with new or recurrent infarcts. Age (adjusted odds ratio, 0.93 [95% CI, 0.89–0.98],
P
<0.01) and number of diffusion-weighted imaging lesions (adjusted odds ratio, 3.24 [95% CI, 1.36–7.71],
P
<0.01) were independently associated with recurrent infarct adjusting for hypertension, diabetes, and stenosis location (anterior versus posterior circulation).

Conclusions:

An index multi-infarct pattern is associated with early recurrent infarcts, a finding that might be explained by plaque instability and artery-to-artery embolism. Further investigation of plaque vulnerability in intracranial atherosclerotic disease is needed.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT02121028.
Accurate Expressions for the Dewpoint and Frost Point Derived from the Rankine–Kirchhoff Approximations
Authors: Romps David M.
Published: April 2021

Accurate, explicit, and analytic expressions are derived for the dewpoint and frost point as functions of temperature and relative humidity. These are derived theoretically in terms of physical constants using the Rankine–Kirchhoff approximations, which assume an ideal gas, fixed heat capacities, and zero specific volume of condensates. Compared to modern laboratory measurements, the expressions are accurate to within a few hundredths of a degree over the full range of Earth-relevant temperatures, from 180 to 273 K for the frost point and 230 to 330 K for the dewpoint.
“Immerse my eye in every colour”: A conversation with Aamer Hussein
Authors: Ramzan Muddasir
Published: April 2021

This in-depth interview focuses on Aamer Hussein’s role as a writer in general and his Muslim identity and heritage in particular. Among the issues raised are his ideas about identity; his life in Britain; Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) writing; Islamophobia; his response to the Rushdie Affair and post-9/11 discourses; Muslim literary traditions; and bilingualism. Hussein is mostly acclaimed for his short stories. The present interview also discusses his writings in general with a special focus on Another Gulmohar Tree (2009), his era, his manifold influences, and his role as a critic, while also shedding light on postcolonial themes.
South Africa’s increasing climate variability and its effect on food production
Authors: Tshikovhi Mashudu , van Wyk Roscoe Bertrum
Published: April 2021

This study examines the impact of increasing climate variability on food production in South Africa, focusing on maize and wheat yields. A two-way fixed effects panel regression model was used to assess the climate variability impacts, analysing secondary data for the period 2000 to 2019 for nine provinces in South Africa. The study found that increasing climate variability has a negative impact on maize and wheat production in South Africa. Specifically, the results indicated a negative correlation between mean annual temperature with both maize and wheat yields. A decrease in precipitation affected maize yields negatively, while the impact on wheat yields was positive, although insignificant. This analysis, therefore, depicted that crop yields generally increase with more annual precipitation and decrease with higher temperatures. The study recommends that funding initiatives to educate farmers on increasing climate variability and its effects on farming activities in South Africa should be prioritised.
Intensifying Instruction to Meet Students’ Early Writing Needs
Authors: Lam Elizabeth A. , Kunkel Amy K. , McKevett Nicole M. , McMaster Kristen L.
Published: April 2021

With over 70% of fourth-, eighth-, and twelfth-grade students in the United States scoring below proficiency levels in writing (NCES, 2009), teachers must provide early and effective writing intervention to accelerate students’ writing skills to meet grade-level standards. In this paper, we provide teachers with a theoretical framework to conceptualize the writing process, link evidenced-based writing interventions to each component of writing, and discuss how to create a writing instructional plan to individualize instruction. Then, we outline a data-based decision making process for intervention delivery. Our aim is to provide educators with steps to identify students’ writing needs, translate these needs into actionable teaching strategies, and accelerate writing progress for students who struggle to meet grade-level writing standards.
Observer-based adaptive neural sliding mode trajectory tracking control for remotely operated vehicles with thruster constraints
Authors: Chu Zhenzhong , Chen Yunsai , Zhu Daqi , Zhang Mingjun
Published: April 2021

For a class of remotely operated vehicle (ROV) systems with thruster constraints, immeasurable states, and unknown nonlinearities, the trajectory tracking control problem was discussed in this paper. The unknown nonlinear functions were approximated by radial basis function (RBF) neural networks. An adaptive state observer based on neural networks was designed and the immeasurable states were estimated. Considering the problem of thruster saturation constraints, an auxiliary system for saturation compensation was designed and a saturation factor was constructed by the auxiliary system state. By applying the backstepping design method, an adaptive neural sliding mode trajectory tracking controller was developed, in which the saturation factor is contained in adaptive laws. It was proved that the uniformly ultimately bounded (UUB) of trajectory tracking errors can be obtained. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed trajectory tracking control approach was checked by simulations.
Novel topology convolutional neural network fault diagnosis for aircraft actuators and their sensors
Authors: Wei Ruonan , Jiang Ju , Xu Haiyan , Zhang Danmeng
Published: April 2021

The variable working conditions and frequent turns make the aircraft actuator system prone to failure, seriously threatening flight safety. The identification of the airplane actuator system is critical for flight decisions and safety. Most fault diagnosis methods of actuators only focus on the actuators themselves, ignoring the disturbance caused by the fault of the actuator position sensor, which may easily lead to wrong decisions. In order to distinguish the actuator fault from its position sensor fault and identify the fault type accurately, an offline diagnosis method of convolutional neural network (CNN) with novel topology for processing time series is proposed. A new shift layer is added after the input layer, which avoids the loss of a large number of features due to the direct connection between the time series and the convolutional layer. A local topological network learning complex pattern with inception module is designed to improve the diagnostic accuracy in different working conditions. The wide residual structure is introduced to expand the convolutional channel, which allows the network features at the bottom level to propagate directly to the top level to prevent network degradation. Simulation results show that this method can accurately diagnose the actuator fault and its position sensor, with an average accuracy of 96.8%. Compared with the current mainstream data-driven methods, the precision and recall are increased by 6.3% and 6.7% respectively.
A smooth optimized input shaping method for two-dimensional crane systems using Bezier curves
Authors: Al-Fadhli AbdulAziz , Khorshid Emad
Published: April 2021

Conventional input shaping commands have been successfully employed to suppress residual vibration in the payload rest-to-rest transportation process. Most of these methods introduce an impractical large and sudden variation on the acceleration profile. This paper presents a new smooth command input with adjustable time length and limited jerks. The command input is generated from the trolley displacement using a Bezier curve function by adjusting the position of the control points, which were divided into boundary and intermedium points. The boundary control points are selected to accurately move the trolley to its desired position with zero velocity and acceleration at the closing motion. The positions of the intermedium points were optimized using a particle swarm scheme for reducing maneuvering time while suppressing the payload oscillations at the end of the process and satisfying physical system constraints. Several cases were discussed for fixed cable length, variable cable involving single and multi-hoisting mechanisms, and different maneuver times. Simulated results were validated experimentally on a laboratory size crane. The results demonstrated that the proposed input Bezier-curve shaper provides an effective, reliable, and practical technique to be used for the payload transportation process. Moreover, the proposed method can generate asymmetrical acceleration and deceleration motions, which cannot be achieved using existing smoother commands.
Prognostic factors in patients treated with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and continuous renal replacement therapy
Authors: Hiramatsu Toshiki , Shimizu Shigemitsu , Koga Hidenobu
Published: April 2021

Introduction:

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) are treatments for critically ill patients with respiratory failure and acute kidney injury. However, no reliable factors have been identified to predict survival in patients treated with both ECMO and CRRT. The aim of this study was to identify prognostic factors for discharging intensive care unit (ICU) patients who required CRRT during ECMO.

Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed data from patients who required CRRT in addition to the ECMO, between April 2015 and March 2018. The patients were divided into two groups: patients who survived and patients who died during ICU hospitalization. We determined their demographic and clinical characteristics, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) scores, Simplified Acute Physiology Score II (SAPS II) scores, and sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) scores. Further, we assessed whether these characteristics differed between individuals who did or did not survive the ICU hospitalization.

Results:

We found that the APACHE II and SAPS II scores differed significantly between both ECMO and CRRT treated patients who did or did not survive hospitalization. Further, intracranial hemorrhage during ECMO and CRRT therapy was associated with lower survival rate.

Conclusions:

Using APACHE II and SAPS II scores might be helpful in making treatment decisions for patients treated with ECMO and CRRT. Intracranial hemorrhage could be a poor prognostic factor. Our findings indicate the potential utility of APACHE II and SAPS II scores to predict mortality in patients treated with both ECMO and CRRT.
Canine Parvovirus Infections in Taiwanese Pangolins (Manis pentadactyla pentadactyla)
Authors: Chang Yen Chi , Lin Zhi Yi , Lin Yan Xiu , Lin Kuei Hsien , Chan Fang Tse , Hsiao Shun Ting , Liao Jiunn Wang , Chiou Hue Ying
Published: April 2021

Canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2) is among the most important and highly contagious pathogens that cause enteric or systemic infections in domestic and nondomestic carnivores. However, the spillover of CPV-2 to noncarnivores is rarely mentioned. Taiwanese pangolins ( Manis pentadactyla pentadactyla) are threatened due to habitat fragmentation and prevalent animal trafficking. Interactions between Taiwanese pangolins, humans, and domestic animals have become more frequent in recent years. However, information about the susceptibility of pangolins to common infectious agents of domestic animals has been lacking. From October 2017 to June 2019, 4 pangolins that were rescued and treated in wildlife rescue centers in central and northern Taiwan presented with gastrointestinal signs. Gross and histopathological examination revealed the main pathologic changes to be necrotic enteritis with involvement of the crypts in all intestinal segments in 2 pangolins. By immunohistochemistry for CPV-2, there was positive labeling of cryptal epithelium throughout the intestine, and immunolabeling was also present in epidermal cells adjacent to a surgical amputation site, and in mononuclear cells in lymphoid tissue. The other 2 pangolins had mild enteritis without crypt involvement, and no immunolabeling was detected. The nucleic acid sequences of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplicons from these 4 pangolins were identical to a Chinese CPV-2c strain from domestic dogs. Quantitative PCR revealed a higher ratio of CPV-2 nucleic acid to internal control gene in the 2 pangolins with severe intestinal lesions and positive immunoreactivity. Herein, we present evidence of CPV-2 infections in pangolins.
Soundtrack for reality? How to use music effectively in non-fictional media formats
Authors: Herget Ann-Kristin , Albrecht Jessica
Published: April 2021

Although it is frequently used and is highly valued in practice, background music in non-fictional media formats has shown a broad spectrum of ambiguous results in previous empirical research. Scholars have often even advised against the use of music in formats such as television news, news magazines, and documentaries. Discrepancies in the effectiveness of background music have also been found in film and advertising research. In these research areas, the congruence between music and medium has been shown to be especially relevant for predicting music’s effects. In this study, two experiments were conducted to investigate the influence of congruent and incongruent music in non-fictional media formats. The first experiment ( N = 92) focused on music’s expressed and induced emotions, recipients’ memory performance, and the perceived credibility and general evaluation of the media format. Experiment 2 ( N = 147) concentrated on attitude changes. As expected, carefully selected congruent background music (i.e., music expressing emotions and triggering associations fitting the media format’s topic) positively influenced recipients’ emotionalization, memory performance, and attitude change, as well as the perceived credibility and general evaluation of the media format. All of the measured effects can be considered medium or large ([Formula: see text]).
Comparison of theoretical approaches to determine the stresses in surface mounted permanent magnet rotors for high speed electric machines
Authors: Mallin Levi , Barrans Simon
Published: April 2021

High-speed electrical machines (HSEMs) are becoming more popular in applications such as air handling devices. Using surface-mounted permanent magnet (PM) rotors manufactured from rare earth metals, they provide benefits over their mechanical transmission counterparts. However, these PMs have low tensile strength and are prone to failure under large centrifugal loads when rotating. Therefore, retaining sleeves are used to hold the PMs in compression to eliminate tensile stress and reduce failure risk. The magnets are also often held on a back iron or carrier, forming an assembly of three cylinders. The ability to predict these stresses is extremely important to rotor design. Current published work shows a lack of exploration of analytical methods of calculating these stresses for three-cylinder assemblies. This paper shows the development of plane stress, plane strain and generalised plane strain (GPS) theories for three cylinders. For a range of rotor designs, these theories are compared with finite element analysis (FEA). GPS is shown to be more accurate than plane stress or plane strain for the central region of long cylinders. For short cylinders and for the ends of cylinders, all three theories give poor results.
Convolutional Neural Network-Based In-Vehicle Occupant Detection and Classification Method using Second Strategic Highway Research Program Cabin Images
Authors: Papakis Ioannis , Sarkar Abhijit , Svetovidov Andrei , Hickman Jeffrey S. , Abbott A. Lynn
Published: April 2021

This paper describes an approach for automatic detection and localization of drivers and passengers in automobiles using in-cabin images. We used a convolutional neural network (CNN) framework and conducted experiments based on the Faster R-CNN and Cascade R-CNN detectors. Training and evaluation were performed using the Second Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP 2) naturalistic dataset. In SHRP 2, the cabin images have been blurred to maintain privacy. After detecting occupants inside the vehicle, the system classifies each occupant as driver, front-seat passenger, or back-seat passenger. For one SHRP 2 test set, the system detected occupants with an accuracy of 94.5%. Those occupants were correctly classified as front-seat passenger with an accuracy of 97.3%, as driver with 99.5% accuracy, and as back-seat passenger with 94.3% accuracy. The system performed slightly better for daytime images than for nighttime images. Unlike previous work, this method is capable of presence classification and location prediction of occupants. By fine-tuning the object detection model, there is also significant improvement in detection accuracy as compared with pretrained models. The study also provides a fully annotated dataset of in-cabin images. This work is expected to facilitate research involving interactions between drivers and passengers, particularly related to driver attention and safety.
Ascorbic Acid and Iron Supplement Treatment Improves Stem Cell–Mediated Cartilage Regeneration in a Minipig Model
Authors: Theruvath Ashok Joseph , Mahmoud Elhussein Elbadry , Wu Wei , Nejadnik Hossein , Kiru Louise , Liang Tie , Felt Stephen , Daldrup-Link Heike Elisabeth
Published: April 2021

Background:

The transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into cartilage defects has led to variable cartilage repair outcomes. Previous in vitro studies have shown that ascorbic acid and reduced iron independently can improve the chondrogenic differentiation of MSCs. However, the combined effect of ascorbic acid and iron supplementation on MSC differentiation has not been investigated.

Purpose:

To investigate the combined in vivo effects of ascorbic acid and a US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)–approved iron supplement on MSC-mediated cartilage repair in mature Göttingen minipigs.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

We pretreated bone marrow–derived MSCs with ascorbic acid and the FDA-approved iron supplement ferumoxytol and then transplanted the MSCs into full-thickness cartilage defects in the distal femurs of Göttingen minipigs. Untreated cartilage defects served as negative controls. We evaluated the cartilage repair site with magnetic resonance imaging at 4 and 12 weeks after MSC implantation, followed by histological examination and immunofluorescence staining at 12 weeks.

Results:

Ascorbic acid plus iron–pretreated MSCs demonstrated a significantly better MOCART (magnetic resonance observation of cartilage repair tissue) score (73.8 ± 15.5), better macroscopic cartilage regeneration score according to the International Cartilage Repair Society (8.6 ± 2.0), better Pineda score (2.9 ± 0.8), and larger amount of collagen type II (28,469 ± 21,313) compared with untreated controls (41.3 ± 2.5, 1.8 ± 2.9, 12.8 ± 1.9, and 905 ± 1326, respectively). The obtained scores were also better than scores previously reported in the same animal model for MSC implants without ascorbic acid.

Conclusion:

Pretreatment of MSCs with ascorbic acid and an FDA-approved iron supplement improved the chondrogenesis of MSCs and led to hyaline-like cartilage regeneration in the knee joints of minipigs.

Clinical Relevance:

Ascorbic acid and iron supplements are immediately clinically applicable. Thus, these results, in principle, could be translated into clinical applications.
The More, the Merrier? Roles of Device-Student Ratio in Collaborative Inquiries and Its Interactions With External Scripts and Task Complexity
Authors: Wang Cixiao , Le Huixiao
Published: April 2021

In collaborative learning, the intuition “the more device, the merrier” is somehow widely acknowledged, but little research has investigated the relationship between device-student ratio and the learning outcome. This study aims to investigate not only the main effect of different device-student ratio, also to identify the moderators in the learning context including task complexity, external script availability and students’ familiarity to the collaboration settings. A three-round quasi-experiment was conducted in a primary school in mainland China, 130 fifth-grade students from four classes participated. Group worksheet including conceptual understanding and problem-solving tasks were used to collect participants’ inquiry performance. Repeated measures ANOVA was employed in data analysis. Findings indicate that 1:m device-student ratio could be beneficial, and external scripts, and prior collaboration experience could moderate such effect. The different effect of 1:m device-student ratio to 1:1 is only significant in the situation when students are faced with relatively simple task, and the effect size is larger when external script is present. When the task is more complicated, such effect of device-student ratio would only emerge after a period of collaboration. This finding challenged the intuition that one-to-one device-student ratio could be better. Related discussions and recommendations to teaching were made.
La consommation verte au Vietnam : effets de l’éco-certification, de la marque et de l’incongruence modérée de leurs origines sur l’intention d’achat
Authors: Dekhili Sihem , Nguyen Thuy-Phuong
Published: April 2021

Dans la littérature sur la consommation responsable, il est couramment établi que les informations sur l’éco-certification, la marque et le pays d’origine ont des effets sur le comportement des consommateurs. Cette recherche étudie comment l’origine de l’éco-certification et l’origine de la marque interagissent entre elles et influencent l’intention d’achat pour les produits verts. L’expérimentation inter-sujets de type 2 (éco-certification: nationale vs. étrangère) × 2 (marque : nationale vs. étrangère), menée auprès de 640 consommateurs vietnamiens, montre que les répondants sont plus enclins à acheter des produits verts de marques nationales. Elle souligne, en revanche, que la mention de l’origine de l’éco-certification n’a pas d’effet significatif sur l’intention d’achat. En outre, un effet d’incongruence modérée entre l’origine de l’éco-certification et l’origine de la marque est partiellement confirmé. Ces effets sont modérés par l’implication vis-à-vis du produit, la familiarité avec la marque, la familiarité avec le produit et les caractéristiques démographiques des individus. Les résultats obtenus ont permis de proposer différentes préconisations théoriques et managériales.
Intimate Partner Violence Experiences During COVID-19 Among Male Couples
Authors: Walsh Alison R. , Sullivan Stephen , Stephenson Rob
Published: April 2021

In addition to the growing morbidity and mortality related to the 2019 novel coronavirus (SAR-CoV-2) pandemic, social distancing measures during the pandemic may result in increased intimate partner violence (IPV). However, it is yet unknown if gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM)’s IPV risk has increased during this time. This article describes and analyzes IPV experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic in a sample of coupled-GBMSM in the United States. We hypothesized that pandemic-driven stressors would be associated with increased IPV prevalence and severity. A sample of 214 coupled men living in the US who had previously participated in HIV-related couple studies was surveyed in July-September 2020. Respondents reported demographic, sexual and substance use behaviors, and relationship characteristics. Surveys also collected data on pandemic-related life-changes (employment, substance use, COVID-19 illness). IPV victimization and perpetration were measured with the Gay and Bisexual Men Intimate Partner Violence scale and measured individually experienced or perpetrated violence, sexual, emotional, monitoring, or controlling behaviors, and if a given behavior was new and/or had changed in frequency during the pandemic. Reported prevalence and pandemic-related changes in victimization and perpetration were described. New or more frequent IPV victimization was modeled against employment, substance use changes, COVID-19 illness, and outside sexual partners (modified by a couple’s sexual agreement). IPV perpetration prevalence was 15.17%, 34.44% of which was new or more frequent. Victimization prevalence was 14.95%, of which 46.88% was new or more frequent. After adjustment, outside sexual partners were associated with IPV among those with nonmonogamous sexual agreements; each outside sexual partner increased the odds of new or more frequent victimization by 70% ( OR = 1.70; 95% CI [1.16, 2.51]). Given this study’s documented rise in IPV among a sample of coupled men, additional research into IPV predictors, interventions, and support strategies in GBMSM populations are warranted.