bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Topology Optimized Bending-Twisting Soft Finger
Authors: Chen Zhili , Rahimi Nohooji Hamed , Chew Chee-Meng
Published: December 2021

This paper proposed a systematic framework to automatically design and fabricate optimized soft robotic fingers. The soft finger is composed of a soft silicone structure with inner air chambers and a harder outer layer, which are fabricated by molding process and 3D printing, respectively. The softer layer is utilized for actuation while the supportive hard structure is used to impose constraints. The framework applies a topology optimization approach based on rational approximation of material properties (RAMP) method to obtain an optimal design of the outer layer of the soft fingers. Two basic motion primitives (bending and twisting) of the soft finger were explored. A multi-segmented soft bending finger and a soft twisting finger were designed and fabricated through the proposed framework. This work also explored the combination of bending and twisting primitives by developing a combined bending-twisting soft finger. The soft fingers were characterized by free and blocked movement tests. The experiments showed that the triple-segmented soft finger can achieve a maximum of 50.5 deg no-load bending under the actuation pressure of 53 kPa. The blocked movement test on the multi-segmented soft actuating finger showed that this finger could generate up to a maximum of 0.63 N force under 57 kPa actuation pressure in 7 s of inflating time. The developed twisting soft finger was shown to achieve tip rotation of up to 219 deg under 29 kPa actuation pressure. Finally, the potential capability of the bending-twisting soft fingers was verified through applications like screwing and object grasping.
Case Studies of Olympic Medalist Coach–Athlete Relationships: A Retrospective Analysis Prior to and During the Olympics
Authors: Zuleger Brian , McGuire Rick
Published: December 2021

The Olympics is a unique and challenging performance setting that tests the strength of the coach–athlete relationship. The purpose of this study was to investigate the coach–athlete relationship prior to and during the Olympics with Olympic-medal-winning athletes and their coaches. Qualitative research methods were implemented where three Olympic medalist coach–athlete dyads participated in semistructured interviews. Data collection included three separate interviews (athlete, coach, and coach–athlete) for each dyad. Cross-case analysis identified three lower order themes related to creating an athlete-centered environment: (a) empowering effective decision making, (b) open and honest communication, and (c) mental cue-based instruction and feedback. In addition, three lower order themes related to developing a caring supportive relationship emerged: (a) developed trust, (b) commitment, and (c) gratitude. Results indicated that coaches and athletes perceived that their success at the Olympics Games was influenced by the strength of the coach–athlete relationship that was developed over multiple years prior to the Olympics.
Developing a Cash Budget for the Savannah Squares
Authors: Barnhill Chris , Rundio Amy
Published: December 2021

Like many sport organizations, the Savannah Squares Minor League Baseball franchise is a seasonal business. The team earns most of its revenue during the playing season and must manage its cash effectively throughout the fiscal year. Fixed costs and other cash expenditures often fall into a pattern that differs from the cash receipts schedule. Poor cash management, inaccurate budgets, and improper execution of annual budgets lead to costly cash shortfalls. For the Savannah Squares, annual pro forma budgets have predicted tight but positive earnings for the past few years; however, monthly shortages have led to penalties and late fees that ate into profits and caused financial strain on the organization. Using historical trends and other available data, Juan Hernandez has decided to create a cash budget to identify months with cash surpluses and shortfalls so that he can implement better cash management strategies.
Move over NAIP, DDX17 diversifies the NLRC4 inflammasome
Authors: Barnett Katherine C. , Liang Kaixin , Ting Jenny P.-Y.
Published: December 2021

DDX17 binds short interspersed nuclear element RNAs to nucleate a dual NLRC4/NLRP3 inflammasome, highlighting the emerging role of endogenous ligands in NLRC4 activation (see the related Research Article by

Wang
et al
.

).
Acute kidney injury in paediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome temporally associated with SARS-CoV-2 (PIMS-TS) is not associated with progression to chronic kidney disease
Authors: Stewart Douglas John , Mudalige Nadeesha Lakmal , Johnson Mae , Shroff Rukshana , du Pré Pascale , Stojanovic Jelena
Published: December 2021

Background

Paediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome temporally associated with SARS-CoV-2 (PIMS-TS) is a rare complication of SARS-CoV-2 associated with single or multiorgan dysfunction.

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) and risk factors for kidney dysfunction in PIMS-TS, with reporting of 6-month renal follow-up data. We also evaluated renal involvement between first and second waves of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in the UK, the latter attributed to the Alpha variant.

Design

A single-centre observational study was conducted through patient chart analysis.

Setting

Data were collected from patients admitted to Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK, between April 2020 and March 2021.

Patients

110 patients <18 years of age.

Main outcome measure

AKI during hospitalisation. AKI classification was based on upper limit of reference interval (ULRI) serum creatinine (sCr) values.

Results

AKI occurred in 33 (30%) patients. Hypotension/hypoperfusion was associated with almost all cases. In univariate analysis, the AKI cohort had higher peak levels of triglycerides (OR, 1.27 (95% CI, 1.05 to 1.6) per 1 mmol/L increase) and C reactive protein (OR, 1.06 (95% CI, 1.02 to 1.12) per 10 mg/L increase), with higher requirement for mechanical ventilation (OR, 3.8 (95% CI, 1.46 to 10.4)) and inotropic support (OR, 15.4 (95% CI, 3.02 to 2.81)). In multivariate analysis, triglycerides were independently associated with AKI stages 2–3 (adjusted OR, 1.26 (95% CI, 1.04 to 1.6)). At follow-up, none had macroalbuminuria and all had sCr values <ULRI. No discrepancy in renal involvement between pandemic waves was found.

Conclusion

Despite a high incidence of AKI in PIMS-TS, renal recovery occurs rapidly with current therapies, and no patients developed chronic kidney disease.
Time trends in access to smoking cessation support for people with depression or severe mental illness: a cohort study in English primary care
Authors: Falcaro Milena , Osborn David , Hayes Joseph , Couperthwaite Lisa , Weich Scott , Walters Kate R
Published: December 2021

Objectives

To investigate delivery of smoking cessation interventions, recorded quit attempts and successful quitting rates within primary care in smokers with depression or severe mental illness (SMI) compared with those without.

Design

Longitudinal cohort study using primary healthcare records.

Setting

English primary care.

Participants

882 849 patients registered with participating practices recorded as current smokers during 2007–2014, including three groups: (1) 13 078 with SMI, (2) 55 630 with no SMI but recent depression and (3) 814 141 with no SMI nor recent depression.

Outcomes

Recorded advice to quit smoking, referrals to smoking cessation services, prescriptions for smoking cessation medication, recorded quit attempts and changes of smoking status.

Results

The majority (>70%) of smokers had recorded smoking cessation advice. This was consistently higher in those with SMI than the other cohorts of patients, although the gap greatly reduced in more recent years. Increases in smoking cessation advice over time were not accompanied by increases in recorded attempts to quit or changes of smoking status. Overall nicotine replacement therapy prescribing by general practitioners (GPs) was higher in those with SMI (10.1%) and depression (8.7%) than those without (5.9%), but a downward time trend was observed in all groups. Bupropion and varenicline prescribing was very low and lower for those with SMI. Few smokers (<5%) had referrals to stop smoking services, though this increased over time, but no significant differences were observed between those with and without mental health problems.

Conclusions

There was no evidence of consistent inequalities in access to GP-delivered smoking cessation interventions for people with mental health conditions. Smoking cessation advice was widely reported as taking place in all groups. In order to address the widening gap in smoking prevalence in those with poor mental health compared with those without, the emphasis should be on addressing the quality of advice and support given.
Factors associated with HIV testing and counselling services among women and men in Nepal: a cross-sectional study using data from a nationally representative survey
Authors: Bhattarai Navaraj , Bam Kiran , Acharya Kiran , Thapa Rajshree , Shrestha Bhagawan
Published: December 2021

Objectives

This study is set up to explore the factors associated with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) testing among women and men in Nepal.

Study design

Nepal Demographic and Health Survey, 2016 adopts a cross-sectional design.

Setting

Nepal.

Participants

Women and men of age 15–49 years.

Primary outcome measures

Our primary outcome was ever tested for HIV. We used multivariable analysis at a 95% level of significance to measure the effect in outcome variables.

Results

About one in 10 women (10.8%) and one in five men (20.5%) ever tested for HIV. Women who had media exposure at least once a week ((adjusted odds ratio (aOR)=2.8; 95% CI: 1.4 to 5.3) were more likely to get tested for HIV compared with those who had no media exposure at all. Similarly, those who had their recent delivery in the health facility (aOR=3.9; 95% CI: 2.4 to 6.3) were more likely to get tests for HIV compared with those delivered elsewhere. Likewise, among men, compared with adolescents (15–19 years), those from older age groups were more likely to get tested for HIV. Compared with no education, secondary (aOR=2.3; 95% CI: 1.4 to 3.6) and higher education (aOR=1.7; 95% CI: 1.0 to 2.8) had higher odds of getting tested for HIV. Similarly, wealth quintiles in richer and richest groups were more likely to get tested for HIV compared with the poorest quintile. Other characteristics like media exposure, paid sex and 2+ sexual partners were positively associated with being tested for HIV.

Conclusions

HIV testing is not widespread and more men than women are accessing HIV services. More than two-thirds of women who delivered at health facilities never tested for HIV. It is imperative to reach out to people engaging in risky sexual behaviour, people with lower educational attainment, and those in the lower wealth quintile for achieving 95–95–95 targets by 2030.
Magnitude of preterm hospital neonatal mortality and associated factors in northern Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Girma Bekahegn , Nigussie Jemberu
Published: December 2021

Objective

This study aimed to assess the magnitude of preterm neonatal mortality in hospitals and associated factors in northern Ethiopia.

Design

Institutional-based cross-sectional study.

Setting

Comprehensive specialised hospitals in the Tigray region, northern Ethiopia.

Participants

Preterm neonates admitted in Ayder and Aksum comprehensive specialised hospitals

Primary outcome

Magnitude of preterm neonatal mortality.

Secondary outcome

Factors associated with preterm neonatal mortality

Result

This study was conducted from 1 April 2019 to 15 May 2019 among 336 participants with a response rate of 96.8%. The magnitude of preterm neonatal mortality was 28.6% (95% CI: 24.0 to 33.7). In multivariable logistic regression, respiratory distress syndrome (adjusted odd ratio (AOR)=2.85; 95% CI: 1.35 to 6.00), apnoea of prematurity (AOR=5.45; 95% CI: 1.32 to 22.5), nulli parity (AOR=3.63; 95% CI: 1.59 to 8.24) and grand parity (AOR=3.21; 95% CI: 1.04 to 9.94) were significant factors associated with preterm neonatal mortality. However, receiving Kangaroo mother care (AOR=0.08; 95% CI: 0.03 to 0.20) and feeding initiated during hospitalisation (AOR=0.07; 95% CI: 0.03 to 0.15) were protective against preterm neonatal mortality.

Conclusions

The magnitude of preterm neonatal mortality in hospitals was still high. Interventions geared towards curbing preterm in-hospital neonatal mortality should strengthen early diagnosis and treatment of preterm newborns with respiratory distress syndrome and apnoea of prematurity; while concomitantly reinforcing the implementation of kangaroo care and early feeding initiation is important.
Determinants and pathways of healthcare-seeking behaviours in under-5 children for common childhood illnesses and antibiotic prescribing: a cohort study in rural India
Authors: Khare Shweta , Pathak Ashish , Purohit Manju Raj , Sharma Megha , Marrone Gaetano , Tamhankar Ashok J , Stålsby Lundborg Cecilia , Diwan Vishal
Published: December 2021

Objectives

To explore the healthcare-seeking pathways, antibiotic prescribing and determine the sociodemographic factors associated with healthcare-seeking behaviour (HSB) of caregivers for common illnesses in under-5 (U-5) children in rural Ujjain, India.

Study design

Prospective cohort study.

Study setting and study sample

The cohort included 270 U-5 children from selected six villages in rural demographic surveillance site, of the R.D. Gardi Medical College, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, India. A community-based cohort was visited two times weekly for over 113 weeks (August 2014 to October 2016) to record the HSB of caregivers using HSB diaries. Sociodemographic information was also solicited.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Primary outcomes: first point of care, healthcare-seeking pathway and quantify antibiotic prescribing for the common acute illnesses.

Secondary outcome

HSB risk factors were determined using mixed-effects multinomial logistic regression.

Results

A total of 60 228 HSB follow-up time points for 270 children were recorded with a total of 2161 acute illness episodes. The most common illnesses found were respiratory tract infections (RTI) (69%) and gastrointestinal tract infections (8%). No healthcare was sought in 33% of illness episodes, mostly for RTIs. The most common healthcare-seeking pathway was to informal healthcare providers (IHCPs, 49% of illness episodes). The adjusted relative risk for obtaining no treatment, home treatment and treatment by IHCPs was higher for RTIs (aRR=11.54, 1.82 and 1.29, respectively), illiterate mothers (aRR=2.86, 2.38 and 1.93, respectively), and mothers who were homemakers (aRR=2.90, 4.17 and 2.10, respectively). Socioeconomic status was associated with HSB, with the highest aRR for no treatment in the lowest two socioeconomic quintiles (aRR=6.59 and 6.39, respectively). Antibiotics were prescribed in 46% (n=670/1450) illness episodes and the majority (85%, n=572/670) were broad spectrum.

Conclusion

In our rural cohort for many acute episodes of illnesses, no treatment or home treatment was done, which resulted in overall reduced antibiotic prescribing. The most common healthcare-seeking pathway was to visit IHCPs, which indicates that they are major healthcare providers in rural areas. Most of the antibiotics were prescribed by IHCPs and were commonly prescribed for illnesses where they were not indicated.
Young Survivors at KSA: registry for standardised assessment of long-term and late-onset health events in survivors of childhood and adolescent cancer—a study protocol
Authors: Otth Maria , Drozdov Daniel , Hügli Claudia , Scheinemann Katrin
Published: December 2021

Introduction

A high proportion of survivors of childhood and adolescent cancer experience chronic medical conditions — late effects. Most studies on late effects have a retrospective or questionnaire-based design, which leads to unavoidable limitations such as missing data or different severity coding and grading of late effects. We, therefore, need prospective data, including standardised severity coding and grading. ‘Young Survivors at KSA’ aims to close this gap by assessing frequency, severity, risk factors and longitudinal changes of late effects in childhood cancer survivors prospectively and in a standardised way.

Methods and analysis

Within the ‘Young Survivors at KSA’ registry, we collect data from regular follow-up visits in a comprehensive database prospectively and repeatedly from start of the study and retrospectively at most until January 2016. We classify and grade the severity of late effects according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 4.0 modified by Hudsonet al. The outcome variables correspond to results from risk-stratified organ examinations, performed according to the Children’s Oncology Group guidelines version 5.0 and the recommendations by the International Guideline Harmonization Group. We collect the exposure variables from the patients’ medical history, including detailed information on cancer diagnosis and treatment. We analyse the data in an exposure-driven and organ system-driven approach. We start recruitment with patients treated at the Kantonsspital Aarau, Switzerland. However, our design allows the inclusion of additional national centres later.

Ethics and dissemination

‘Young Survivors at KSA’ is approved by the Ethikkommission Nordwest- und Zentralschweiz, reference number AO_2020–00012. The results of this study will be presented at scientific meetings, including meetings with childhood cancer survivors and published in peer-reviewed and if possible open access journals. New insights gained from the study will be used directly in clinical practice.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.govNCT04811794;https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/study/NCT04811794
The heart & mind trial: intervention with cognitive–behavioural therapy in patients with cardiac disease and anxiety: randomised controlled trial protocol
Authors: Berg Selina Kikkenborg , Herning Margrethe , Schjødt Inge , Thorup Charlotte Brun , Juul Carsten , Svendsen Jesper Hastrup , Jorgensen Martin Balslev , Risom Signe Stelling , Christensen Signe Westh , Thygesen Lau , Rasmussen Trine Bernholdt
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Patients with cardiac disease often experience anxiety (prevalence about 20%–25%) and have a doubled mortality risk when suffering from anxiety compared with patients without anxiety. This calls for interventions aiming to reduce anxiety.

Methods and analysis

The Heart & Mind Trial consists of three parts: (1) screening of all hospitalised and outpatient cardiac patients with arrhythmia, heart failure or ischaemic heart disease at four university hospitals in Denmark using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale-Anxiety subscale (HADS-A); Patients scoring ≥8 is invited to participate; (2) Assessment of the type of anxiety by Structured Clinical Interview for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders and (3) Randomised clinical superiority trial with blinded outcome assessment, with 1:1 randomisation to cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) performed by a CBT-trained cardiac nurse plus usual care or, usual care alone. The primary outcome is anxiety measured with HADS-A at 5 months. Secondary outcomes include anxiety symptoms measured with Becks Anxiety Inventory and heart rate variability. Exploratory outcomes measured at 12 months include blood cortisol (stress response), blood C reactive protein (stress response), health-related quality of life, readmission, mortality and attributable direct costs. A total of 336 patients will be included. The primary analyses are based on the intention-to-treat principle. For the primary outcome, we will use a linear regression model. For the long-term outcomes, mixed regression models will be used including repeated measurements.

Ethics and dissemination

The trial is performed in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki. All patients must give informed consent prior to participation and the trial is initiated after approval by the Danish Data Protection Agency (P-2020-894) and the National Committee on Health Research Ethics (H-20066739). Positive, neutral and negative results of the trial will be published.

Trial registration number

NCT04582734.
Mediating role of multimorbidity in inequality in mortality: a register study on the Danish population
Authors: Diderichsen Finn , Bender Anne Mette , Lyth Alice Clark , Andersen Ingelise , Pedersen Jacob , Bjørner Jakob Bue
Published: December 2021

Background

The social inequality in mortality is due to differential incidence of several disorders and injury types, as well as differential survival. The resulting clustering and possible interaction in disadvantaged groups of several disorders make multimorbidity a potentially important component in the health divide. This study decomposes the effect of education on mortality into a direct effect, a pure indirect effect mediated by multimorbidity and a mediated interaction between education and multimorbidity.

Methods

The study uses the Danish population registers on the total Danish population aged 45–69 years. A multimorbidity index based on all somatic and psychiatric hospital contacts as well as prescribed medicines includes 22 diagnostic groups weighted together by their 5 years mortality risk as weight. The Aalen additive hazard model is used to estimate and decompose the 5 years risk difference in absolute numbers of deaths according to educational status.

Results

Most (69%–79%) of the effect is direct not involving multimorbidity, and the mediated effect is for low educated women 155 per 100 000 of which 87 is an effect of mediated interaction. For low educated men, the mediated effect is 250 per 100 000 of which 93 is mediated interaction.

Conclusion

Multimorbidity plays an important role in the social inequality in mortality among middle aged in Denmark and mediated interaction represents 5%–17%. As multimorbidity is a growing challenge in specialised health systems, the mediated interaction might be a relevant indicator of inequities in care of multimorbid patients.
First-in-human endovascular treatment of hydrocephalus with a miniature biomimetic transdural shunt
Authors: Lylyk Pedro , Lylyk Ivan , Bleise Carlos , Scrivano Esteban , Lylyk Pedro Nicolas , Beneduce Brandon , Heilman Carl B , Malek Adel M
Published: December 2021

Surgical ventriculoperitoneal shunting remains standard treatment for communicating hydrocephalus, despite persistently elevated infection and revision rates. A novel minimally invasive endovascular cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunt was developed to mimic the function of the arachnoid granulation which passively filters CSF from the central nervous system back into the intracranial venous sinus network. The endovascular shunt is deployed via a femoral transvenous approach across the dura mater into the cerebellopontine angle cistern. An octogenarian with intractable hydrocephalus following subarachnoid hemorrhage underwent successful endovascular shunting, resulting in swift intracranial pressure reduction from 38 to <20 cmH2O (<90 min) and resolution of ventriculomegaly. This first successful development of a percutaneous transluminal venous access to the central nervous system offers a new pathway for non-invasive treatment of hydrocephalus and the potential for intervention against neurological disorders.
β-elemene relieves neuropathic pain in mice through the regulation on C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 3 and GABAA receptor
Authors: Dai Yi , Zeng Zhenhua , Deng Shuo , Zou Sanbao , Dou Tingyang
Published: December 2021

β-elemene (Bel) is a sesquiterpene compound that has shown potential in the antinociceptive treatment. This study focused on the function of Bel in neuropathic pain relief in mice. A murine model with spared nerve injury (SNI) was established and treated with Bel. The paw withdrawal thresholds in response to mechanical and thermal stimulations were examined using von Frey filaments. The L4-L6 spinal dorsal horn tissue samples were collected for histological examination. Bel treatment reduced the sensitivities of model mice to mechanical and thermal stimulations, and it inhibited activation of microglia and the secretion of inflammatory cytokines including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and IL-6 in tissues. Bel treatment reduced the expression of nociceptor excitatory N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR), whereas it enhanced the expression of nociceptor inhibitory gamma-aminobutyric acid A (GABAA) receptor to relieve the nociception of mice. The C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 3 (CXCR3) is a downstream molecule mediated by Bel. Either overexpression of CXCR3 or downregulation of GABAA receptor in the tissues aggravated the neuropathic pain in SNI mice which was initially relieved by Bel. In conclusion, this study suggested that Bel might serve as a drug for nociception management by inhibiting CXCR3 and upregulating GABAA receptor. This study may offer novel insights into the field of neuropathic pain relief.
The fate of $$\mathbf{V}_\mathbf{1}$$ vector leptoquarks: the impact of future flavour data
Authors: Hati C. , Kriewald J. , Orloff J. , Teixeira A. M.
Published: December 2021

Motivated by the recent experimental progress on the B-meson decay anomalies (in particular the angular observables in $$B\rightarrow K^*\mu \mu $$

B
→

K
∗

μ
μ

), we rely on a simplified-model approach to study the prospects of vector leptoquarks in what concerns numerous flavour observables, identifying several promising decay modes which would allow to (indirectly) probe such an extension. Our findings suggest that the confirmation of the B-meson decay anomalies, in parallel with positive signals (at Belle II or LHCb) for $$\tau \rightarrow \phi \mu $$

τ
→
ϕ
μ

, $$B_{(s)}$$

B

(
s
)

-meson decays to $$\tau ^+ \tau ^-$$

τ
+

τ
-

and $$\tau ^+ \mu ^-$$

τ
+

μ
-

($$\tau ^+ e^-$$

τ
+

e
-

) final states, as well as an observation of certain charged lepton flavour violation decays (at COMET or Mu2e), would contribute to strengthen the case for this scenario. We also illustrate how the evolution of the experimental determination of $$R_{D^{(*)}}$$

R

D

(

∗
)

could be instrumental in falsifying an explanation of the anomalous B-meson decay data via a vector $$V_1$$

V
1

leptoquark.
Primality of closed path polyominoes
Authors: Cisto Carmelo , Navarra Francesco
Published: December 2021

In this paper, we introduce a new class of polyominoes, called closed paths, and we study the primality of their associated ideal. Inspired by an existing conjecture that characterizes the primality of a polyomino ideal by nonexistence of zig-zag walks, we classify all closed paths which do not contain zig-zag walks, and we give opportune toric representations of the associated ideals. To support the conjecture, we prove that having no zig-zag walks is a necessary and sufficient condition for the primality of the associated ideal of a closed path. Finally, we present some classes of prime polyominoes viewed as generalizations of closed paths.
ACM Web Science Conference 2021
Authors: Hall Wendy , Contractor Noshir , Tang Jie
Published: December 2021

The 13

th

ACM Web Science Conference was hosted online by the University of Southampton from 21--25 June, 2021. The annual event is inherently interdisciplinary, integrating computer and information sciences with a multitude of disciplines including sociology, economics, political science, law, management, language and communication, geography and psychology. It is unique in the way it brings these disciplines together in creative and critical dialogue. It focuses on the full scope of socio-technical relationships that are engaged in the World Wide Web, based on the notion that understanding the Web involves not only an analysis of its architecture and applications, but also insight into the people, organisations, policies, and economics that are affected by and subsumed within it. Since it was first held in Athens in 2009, the conference has been hosted in six countries around the world.
When latency matters
Authors: Iorio Marco , Risso Fulvio , Casetti Claudio
Published: December 2021

Several emerging classes of interactive applications are demanding for extremely low-latency to be fully unleashed, with edge computing generally regarded as a key enabler thanks to reduced delays. This paper presents the outcome of a large-scale end-to-end measurement campaign focusing on task-offloading scenarios, showing that moving the computation closer to the end-users, alone, may turn out not to be enough. Indeed, the complexity associated with modern networks, both at the access and in the core, the behavior of the protocols at different levels of the stack, as well as the orchestration platforms used in data-centers hide a set of pitfalls potentially reverting the benefits introduced by low propagation delays. In short, we highlight how ensuring good QoS to latency-sensitive applications is definitely a multi-dimensional problem, requiring to cope with a great deal of customization and cooperation to get the best from the underlying network.
Scalable and reversible axonal neuromodulation of the sympathetic chain for cardiac control
Authors: Hadaya Joseph , Buckley Una , Gurel Nil Z. , Chan Christopher A. , Swid Mohammed A. , Bhadra Niloy , Vrabec Tina L. , Hoang Jonathan D. , Smith Corey , Shivkumar Kalyanam , Ardell Jeffrey L.
Published: December 2021

Autonomic imbalance and excess sympathetic activity have been implicated in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease and are targets for existing medical therapy. Neuromodulation may allow for control of sympathetic projections to the heart in an on-demand and reversible manner. This study provides proof-of-concept evidence that axonal modulation therapy (AMT) blocks sympathoexcitation by defining scalability, sustainability, and memory properties of AMT. Moreover, AMT directly reduces release of myocardial norepinephrine, a mediator of arrhythmias and heart failure.
The Effect of IL-35 on the Expression of Nasal Epithelial-Derived Proinflammatory Cytokines
Authors: Nie Mingrong , Zeng Qingxiang , Xi Luo , Tang Yiquan , Luo Renzhong , Liu Wenlong
Published: December 2021

Background. Airway epithelium plays an important role during the development of allergic rhinitis (AR), which is characterized by production of thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), interleukin 33 (IL-33), and interleukin 25 (IL-25). IL-35, mainly expressed by Treg cells, have negative regulation in Th2, Th17, and ILC2 inflammation. However, the effect of IL-35 on human nasal epithelial cells (HNECs) especially the secretion of nasal epithelial-derived proinflammatory cytokines as well as the possible mechanism is still unclear. Methods. HNECs were cultured and stimulated by various stimulators. The expression of IL-33, IL-25, TSLP, eotaxin-1, eotaxin-2, and eotaxin-3 from supernatant was measured using real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). AR mice were developed to verify the effect of IL-35 on nasal epithelial cells in vivo. Results. After Poly I:C stimulation, IL-35 inhibited the production of IL-25, and TSLP from HNECs increased significantly compared with baseline levels (

P
<
0.05

). After Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus or Aspergillus fumigatus stimulation, IL-35 inhibited the production of IL-25, IL-33, and TSLP from HNECs increased significantly compared with baseline levels (

P
<
0.05

). After Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, IL-35 inhibited the production of eotaxin-1, eotaxin-2, and eotaxin-3 released from HNECs increased significantly compared with baseline levels (

P
<
0.05

). Similarly, IL-35-treated AR mice presented with decreased expression of IL-33, IL-25, TSLP, eotaxin-1, eotaxin-2, and eotaxin-3 in nasal lavage fluid. Conclusion. IL-35 suppressed both type 2 inflammation-inducing cytokines and eosinophil chemotactic factor from HNECs, suggesting the important role of IL-35 during the development of AR.
Influence of Mindfulness and Relaxation on Treatment of Essential Hypertension: Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Fushun , Zhang Yuanyuan , Jiang Nan , Zhai Qiao , Hu Juanjuan , Feng Jing
Published: December 2021

Background. Some studies published previously have shown a strong correlation between hypertension and psychological nature including impulsion emotion or mindfulness and relaxation temperament, among which mindfulness and relaxation temperament might have a benign influence on blood pressure, ameliorating the hypertension. However, the conclusion was not confirmed. Objective. The meta-analysis was performed to investigate the influence of mindfulness and relaxation on essential hypertension interventions and confirm the effects. Methods. Systematic searches were conducted in common English and Chinese electronic databases (i.e., PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, and Chinese Biomedical Literature Database) from 1980 to 2020. A meta-analysis including 5 studies was performed using Rev Man 5.4.1 software to estimate the influence of mindfulness and relaxation on blood pressure, ameliorating the hypertension. Publication bias and heterogeneity of samples were tested using a funnel plot. Studies were analyzed using either a random-effect model or a fixed-effect model. Results. All the 5 studies investigated the influence of mindfulness and relaxation on diastolic and systolic blood pressure, with total 205 participants in the control group and 204 in the intervention group. The random-effects model (REM) was used to calculate the pooled effect for mindfulness and relaxation on diastolic blood pressure (I2 = 0%, t2 = 0.000,

P
=
0.41

). The random pooled effect size (MD) was 0.30 (95% CI = −0.81–1.42,

P
=
0.59

). REM was used to calculate the pooled effect for mindfulness and relaxation on systolic blood pressure (I2 = 49%, t2 = 3.05,

P
=
0.10

). The random pooled effect size (MD) was −1.05 (95% CI = −3.29–1.18,

P
=
0.36

). The results of this meta-analysis were influenced by publication bias to some degree. Conclusion. All the results showed less influence of mindfulness and relaxation might act on diastolic or systolic blood pressure, when mindfulness and relaxation are used to intervene in treating CVD and hypertension.
Stochastic Multiple Chaotic Local Search-Incorporated Gradient-Based Optimizer
Authors: Yu Hang , Zhang Yu , Cai Pengxing , Yi Junyan , Li Sheng , Wang Shi
Published: December 2021

In this study, a hybrid metaheuristic algorithm chaotic gradient-based optimizer (CGBO) is proposed. The gradient-based optimizer (GBO) is a novel metaheuristic inspired by Newton’s method which has two search strategies to ensure excellent performance. One is the gradient search rule (GSR), and the other is local escaping operation (LEO). GSR utilizes the gradient method to enhance ability of exploitation and convergence rate, and LEO employs random operators to escape the local optima. It is verified that gradient-based metaheuristic algorithms have obvious shortcomings in exploration. Meanwhile, chaotic local search (CLS) is an efficient search strategy with randomicity and ergodicity, which is usually used to improve global optimization algorithms. Accordingly, we incorporate GBO with CLS to strengthen the ability of exploration and keep high-level population diversity for original GBO. In this study, CGBO is tested with over 30 CEC2017 benchmark functions and a parameter optimization problem of the dendritic neuron model (DNM). Experimental results indicate that CGBO performs better than other state-of-the-art algorithms in terms of effectiveness and robustness.
Astragaloside IV Reduces OxLDL-Induced BNP Overexpression by Regulating HDAC
Authors: Zhang Wenting , Wang Xin , Li Jing , Xu Mingyuan , Ren Xiaolu , Liu Huiying , Xu Lu , Shao Jun
Published: December 2021

Effective drug intervention is the most important method to improve the prognosis, improve the quality of life, and prolong the life of patients with heart failure. This study aimed to explore the protective effect of astragaloside IV on myocardial cell injury induced by oxidized low-density lipoprotein (OxLDL) and its regulatory mechanism on the increase of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) caused by myocardial cell injury. The model of myocardial cell injury, protection, and histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibition in HL-1 mice was established by OxLDL treatment, astragaloside IV intervention, and UF010 coincubation. The effects of OxLDL and astragaloside IV on apoptosis were detected by flow cytometry. The expression level of BNP mRNA and protein in cells was investigated by real-time fluorescence quantification, western blot, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. HDAC activity in nucleus was calibrated by fluorescence absorption intensity. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was applied to test eNOS level in myocardial cells. OxLDL significantly promoted apoptosis, upregulated BNP mRNA, increased BNP protein level inside and outside cells, and decreased eNOS level. Compared with OxLDL treatment group, apoptosis decreased, BNP mRNA expression level decreased, BNP protein concentration decreased, and eNOS level increased significantly combined with low and high concentration astragaloside IV treatment group. HDAC activity significantly increased in OxLDL treatment group and significantly decreased after combined incubation with low and high concentrations of astragaloside IV. Inhibition of HDAC significantly increased eNOS level and decreased BNP protein level. In conclusion, astragaloside IV can reverse the low level of eNOS caused by OxLDL by regulating HDAC activity to protect myocardial cells from oxide damage, which is manifested by the decrease of BNP concentration.
Modified Synthesis and Physicochemical Characterization of a Bioglass-Based Composite for Guided Bone Regeneration
Authors: Silva Marcos José da , Alves Wellington , Graeff Carlos Frederico de Oliveira , D’Alpino Paulo Henrique Perlatti
Published: December 2021

Objectives. Bioglass composites and polymers are materials of great interest for the medical and dental areas due to their properties, combining the bioactivity of ceramic materials and the mechanical properties of polymers. The purpose of the present study was to develop and to characterize the physicochemical and morphological properties an experimental bioglass-based ternary composite composed associated with sodium carboxymethylcellulose (Na-CMC) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). The compatibility of functional groups with bioglass was previously evaluated. The composite was then synthesized and evaluated in terms of morphology, elemental composition, compressive strength, porosity, and bioactivity. Materials and Methods. The bioglass was previously synthesized using a sol-gel route and characterized using FTIR analysis to identify the functional groups. The bone graft composite was then synthesized associating the bioglass with PVA, surfactant Triton X, and Na-CMC. The composite was then morphologically characterized using SEM/EDS. The porosity of the composite was analyzed using µCT, which also provided the composite compression strength. The composite was then evaluated in terms of its bioactivity using SEM/EDS analyses after immersion in SBF for 12, 24, 48, and 72 h. Results. FTIR analysis confirmed, among other components, the presence of Si–O–Ca and Si–O–Si bonds, compatible with bioglass. SEM analysis exhibited a composite with a porous structure without spikes. The elemental mapping confirmed the presence of Si, Ca, and P in the composite. µCT analysis demonstrated a porous structure with 42.67% of open pores and an average compression strength of 124.7 MPa. It has also demonstrated ionic changes in the composite surface after immersion in SBF, with increasing detection of Ca and P as a function of time, highlighting its chemical bioactivity. Conclusions. It can be concluded that the proposed bioglass-based composite presents a three-dimensional, well-structured, chemically bioactive porous structure, mechanically resistant for being reinforced with polymeric phases, with promising results as a synthetic bone graft, which makes it suitable for guided bone regeneration.
An Exponential‐Cum‐Sine‐Type Hybrid Imputation Technique for Missing Data
Authors: Bhattacharyya D. , Singh G.N. , Jawa Taghreed M. , Sayed-Ahmed Neveen , Pandey Awadhesh K.
Published: December 2021

In this study, a new exponential‐cum‐sine‐type hybrid imputation technique has been proposed to handle missing data when conducting surveys. The properties of the corresponding point estimator for population mean have been examined in terms of bias and mean square errors. An extensive simulation study using data generated from normal, Poisson, and Gamma distributions has been conducted to evaluate how the proposed estimator performs in comparison to several contemporary estimators. The results have been summarized, and discussion regarding real‐life applications of the estimator follows.
Predicting Pulsars from Imbalanced Dataset with Hybrid Resampling Approach
Authors: Lee Ernesto , Rustam Furqan , Aljedaani Wajdi , Ishaq Abid , Rupapara Vaibhav , Ashraf Imran
Published: December 2021

Pulsar stars, usually neutron stars, are spherical and compact objects containing a large quantity of mass. Each pulsar star possesses a magnetic field and emits a slightly different pattern of electromagnetic radiation which is used to identify the potential candidates for a real pulsar star. Pulsar stars are considered an important cosmic phenomenon, and scientists use them to study nuclear physics, gravitational waves, and collisions between black holes. Defining the process of automatic detection of pulsar stars can accelerate the study of pulsar stars by scientists. This study contrives an accurate and efficient approach for true pulsar detection using supervised machine learning. For experiments, the high time-resolution (HTRU2) dataset is used in this study. To resolve the data imbalance problem and overcome model overfitting, a hybrid resampling approach is presented in this study. Experiments are performed with imbalanced and balanced datasets using well-known machine learning algorithms. Results demonstrate that the proposed hybrid resampling approach proves highly influential to avoid model overfitting and increase the prediction accuracy. With the proposed hybrid resampling approach, the extra tree classifier achieves a 0.993 accuracy score for true pulsar star prediction.
Network Pharmacology-Based Strategy and Molecular Docking to Explore the Potential Mechanism of Jintiange Capsule for Treating Osteoporosis
Authors: Yang Zhao , Yuan Zhen-Zhen , Ma Xin-Long
Published: December 2021

Background. With the advent of ageing population, osteoporosis (OP) has already become a global challenge. Jintiange capsule is extensively applied to treat OP in China. Although recent studies demonstrate that it generates significant effects on strengthening bone, the exact mechanism of the jintiange capsule for treating OP remains unknown. Purpose. To understand the main ingredients of the jintiange capsule, predict the possible targets and the relevant signal transduction pathways, and explore the mechanism of the jintiange capsule for the treatment of OP. Methods. Main ingredients of the jintiange capsule, drug targets, and potential disease targets for OP were obtained from public databases. Molecular biological processes and signaling pathways were determined via bioinformatic analysis, containing protein-protein interaction (PPI), Gene Ontology (GO), and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). Subsequently, the disease-drug-ingredient-targets-pathways networks were constructed using Cytoscape. According to CytoNCA, core targets were acquired. Finally, the present study conducted molecular docking for better testing the abovementioned results. Results. In the current work, we found that 4 main ingredients of the jintiange capsule, 33 drug targets, 4745 potential disease targets for OP, and 12 overlapping targets were identified. PPI network containing 12 nodes and 25 edges proved that there existed a complex relationship. As revealed by GO functional annotation, the intersected targets were mostly associated with BP, CC, and MF. The targets were enriched to 368 items in BP, 27 items in CC, and 42 items in MF. They mainly included calcium ion homeostasis, calcium channel complex, and calcium channel regulator activity. According to KEGG pathway analysis, the intersected targets were mostly associated with Rap 1, cGMP-PKG, Ras, cAMP, calcium pathways, and so on. Based on the analysis with CytoNCA, we acquired 4 core targets, respectively—CALR, SPARC, CALM1, and CALM2. Besides, 2 core targets, CALR and CALM1, were selected for molecular docking experiments. Molecular docking revealed that the main ingredient, calcium phosphate, had good binding with the CALR protein and CALM1 protein. Conclusion. To conclude, the main ingredient of the jintiange capsule, particularly calcium phosphate, may interact with 2 targets, CALR and CALM1, and regulate multiple signaling pathways to treat OP. Additionally, this also benefits us in further understanding the mechanism of the jintiange capsule for treating OP.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Work-Related Lower Back Pain among Radiographers in the State of Kuwait
Authors: Alrowayeh Hesham N. , Alnaser Musaed Z. , Alshatti Talal A. , Saeed Raed S.
Published: December 2021

Background. Work-related lower back pain (WrLBP) is a global health issue and a rising concern in the State of Kuwait. The prevalence and the risk factors of WrLBP among radiographers are not well documented. Objective. The purpose of the study was to determine the one-year prevalence, characteristics, impact, and physical risk factors of WrLBP among radiographers in the State of Kuwait. Methods. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 200 radiographers. The questionnaire collected data on demographics, physical risk factors, and the occurrence of WrLBP in the previous 12 months. Descriptive statistics, frequency calculations, and chi-square analyses were performed. Results. One hundred forty-six radiographers completed and returned the questionnaires with a response rate of 73% (146/200). The one-year prevalence of WrLBP was 16%. The prevalence of WrLBP was not significantly associated with the participants’ demographics. Although WrLBP was significantly associated with work demands, the overall impact of WrLBP on work duties was minimal. Conclusions. The occurrence of WrLBP among radiographers in Kuwait was low, particularly when compared to healthcare providers involved in more patient handling and direct contact. However, various physical risk factors were identified. Further research is needed to investigate the effect of a treatment and prevention program on the prevalence of WrLBP.