bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermal and Tribological Performance of Graphite Flake-Based Magnetorheological Fluid Under Shear Mode Clutch
Authors: Thakur Manish Kumar , Sarkar Chiranjit
Published: May 2021

In this research work, graphite flake has been used as an additive in magnetorheological (MR) fluid to improve its thermal and tribological performance. MR fluids with varying amounts of graphite flakes (0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 wt%) are prepared to show effective thermal and tribological performance. A test rig is developed with a DC motor, torque sensor, and MR clutch operated in a shear mode to test the torque transmission. Results show the lubrication effects of graphite flakes in the MR fluid. Torque transmission is improved in on-state and off-state using graphite flakes-based MR fluid as compared with conventional MR fluid. Heating of the MR clutch is also reduced with the graphite flakes-based MR fluid. Wear marks and damages are decreased significantly with the increased amount of graphite flakes as found in surface roughness tests. Scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive spectroscopy are used to characterize the worn surfaces. This research provides information about the effectiveness of graphite flakes in the MR clutch to improve the device’s performance.
Computational determination of transition times using the measured mouthpiece pressure from soprano and bass clarinet players
Authors: Coyle Whitney L. , Wong Evangelina Y. , Gabriel Jack D. , Kaplan Connor N.
Published: May 2021

This study offers a metric to investigate transition times between articulated notes for reed instruments such as clarinets and bass clarinets. The method requires analysis of measurements of musician mouthpiece pressure. For this paper, the data were recorded using sensor-equipped mouthpieces made for the clarinet and bass clarinet. The method leads to a metric called the transition time (ΔT), which allows for comparing duration measured between notes for clarinets played in different musical contexts (dynamics, tempos, etc.) and playing regimes and between players.
The Zinc Finger Antiviral Protein ZAP Restricts Human Cytomegalovirus and Selectively Binds and Destabilizes Viral
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Authors: Gonzalez-Perez Ana Cristina , Stempel Markus , Wyler Emanuel , Urban Christian , Piras Antonio , Hennig Thomas , Ganskih Sabina , Wei Yuanjie , Heim Albert , Landthaler Markus , Pichlmair Andreas , Dölken Lars , Munschauer Mathias , Erhard Florian , Brinkmann Melanie M.
Published: May 2021

Viral infections have a large impact on society, leading to major human and economic losses and even global instability. So far, many viral infections, including human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection, are treated with a small repertoire of drugs, often accompanied by the occurrence of resistant mutants.
Antidiabetic E4orf1 protein prevents hepatic steatosis and reduces markers of aging-related cellular damage in high fat fed older mice
Authors: Mostofinejad Zahra , Akheruzzaman Md , Abu Bakkar Siddik Md , Patkar Presheet , Dhurandhar Nikhil V , Hegde Vijay
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Older age is associated with greater prevalence of hyperinsulinemia, type 2 diabetes, and fatty liver disease. These metabolic conditions and aging are bidirectionally linked to mitochondrial dysfunction and telomere attrition. Although effectively addressing these conditions is important for influencing the health and the lifespan, it is particularly challenging in older age. We reported that E4orf1, a protein derived from human adenovirus Ad36, reduces hyperinsulinemia, improves glucose clearance, and protects against hepatic steatosis in younger mice exposed to high fat diet (HFD). Here, we tested if E4orf1 will improve glycemic control, liver fat accumulation, mitochondrial integrity, and reduce telomere attrition in older mice.

Research design and methods

We used 9-month-old mice that inducibly expressed E4orf1 in adipose tissue and non-E4orf1 expressing control mice. Mice were maintained on a 60% (kcal) HFD for 20 weeks and glycemic control was determined by intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test at week 20. Following 20 weeks of HF-feeding, mice were sacrificed and liver tissues collected to determine the expression of aging genes using qRT-PCR based RT2Profiler PCR array.

Results

Compared with the control mice, E4orf1 significantly improved glycemic control and reduced hepatic steatosis and fibrosis. Additionally, E4orf1 maintained markers of mitochondrial integrity and telomere attrition.

Conclusion

E4orf1 has the potential to improve glycemic control in older mice, and the improvement persists even after longer term exposure. E4orf1 expression also maintains mitochondrial integrity and telomere attrition, thus delaying age-associated diseases. This provides strong evidence for therapeutic utility of E4orf1 in improving age-associated metabolic and cellular changes that occur with aging in humans.
The mortality effects of disregarding the strategy to save doses of measles vaccine: a cluster-randomised trial in Guinea-Bissau
Authors: Byberg Stine , Aaby Peter , Rodrigues Amabelia , Stabell Benn Christine , Fisker Ane Baerent
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Measles vaccine (MV) may improve health beyond measles protection. To avoid wastage from multi-dose vials, children in Guinea-Bissau are only measles vaccinated when aged 9–11 months and when six or more children are present. We assessed health impacts of providing MV to all measles-unvaccinated children 9–35 months.

Methods

We cluster-randomised 182 village clusters under demographic surveillance in rural Guinea-Bissau to an ‘MV-for-all-policy’ arm where we offered MV regardless of age and number of children present at our bi-annual village visits, or a ‘Restrictive-MV-policy’ arm where we followed national policy. Measles-unvaccinated children aged 9–35 months were eligible for enrolment and followed to 5 years of age. In intention-to-treat analyses, we compared mortality using Cox regression analyses with age as underlying timescale. The primary analysis was for children aged 12–35 months at eligibility assessment. Interactions with several background factors were explored.

Results

Between 2011 and 2016, we followed 2778 children in the primary analysis. MV coverage by 3 years was 97% among children eligible for enrolment under the MV-for-all-policy, and 48% under the Restrictive-MV-policy. Mortality was 59% lower than anticipated and did not differ by trial arm (MV-for-all-policy: 45/1405: Restrictive-MV-policy: 44/1373; HR: 0.95 (95% CI 0.64 to 1.43)). The effect of MV-for-all changed over time: The HR was 0.53 (95% CI 0.27 to 1.07) during the first 1½ years of enrolment but 1.47 (95% CI 0.87 to 2.50) later (p=0.02, test of interaction). Explorative analyses indicated that the temporal change may be related to interactions with other childhood interventions.

Conclusion

The MV-for-all-policy increased MV coverage but had no overall effect on overall mortality.

Trial registration number

NCT01306006.
Comparing vision and macular thickness in neovascular age-related macular degeneration, diabetic macular oedema and retinal vein occlusion patients treated with intravitreal antivascular endothelial growth factor injections in clinical practice
Authors: Gurung Rajya L , FitzGerald Liesel M , McComish Bennet J , Hewitt Alex W , Verma Nitin , Burdon Kathryn P
Published: May 2021

Objective

To compare the visual outcomes of intravitreal antivascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injections in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), diabetic macular oedema (DMO) and retinal vein occlusion (RVO) in a real-world setting.

Methods and analysis

Retrospective analysis of data from the Tasmanian Ophthalmic Biobank database. The median change in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) between baseline and 12 months post initiating intravitreal anti-VEGF treatment were compared between the three diseases. Final BCVA, central macular thickness (CMT), cumulative number of injections and overall predictors of change in BCVA and CMT were also determined.

Results

At 12 months, change in BCVA was significantly different between nAMD, DMO and RVO cohorts (p=0.032), with lower median change for DMO (2 letters, range −5 to 20) than for RVO (11 letters, range −20 to 35). Likewise, CMT change was significantly different between the three cohorts (p=0.022), with a smaller reduction in CMT in DMO (−54 µm, range −482 to 50) than RVO patients (−137 µm, range −478 to 43; p=0.033). Total number of injections received (p=0.028) and final BCVA score (p=0.024) were also significantly different between the groups. Baseline BCVA was a negative predictor (p=0.042) and baseline CMT a positive predictor (p<0.001) of outcome. After adjusting for baseline BCVA and CMT, diagnosis of nAMD or RVO was a predictor of visual improvement compared with the DMO.

Conclusions

At the end of 12 months, nAMD and RVO cohorts had the greatest improvement in BCVA, however the final BCVA for DMO was significantly better than for nAMD.
Project Console: a quality improvement initiative for neonatal abstinence syndrome in a children’s hospital level IV neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: Ponder Kathryn L , Egesdal Charles , Kuller Joanne , Joe Priscilla
Published: May 2021

Objective

To improve care for infants with neonatal abstinence syndrome.

Design

Infants with a gestational age of ≥35 weeks with prenatal opioid exposure were eligible for our quality improvement initiative. Interventions in our Plan–Do–Study–Act cycles included physician consensus, re-emphasis on non-pharmacological treatment, the Eat Sleep Console method to measure functional impairment, morphine as needed, clonidine and alternative soothing methods for parental unavailability (volunteer cuddlers and automated sleeper beds). Pre-intervention and post-intervention outcomes were compared.

Results

Length of stay decreased from 31.8 to 10.5 days (p<0.0001) without an increase in readmissions. Composite pharmacotherapy exposure days decreased from 28.7 to 5.5 (p<0.0001). This included reductions in both morphine exposure days (p<0.0001) and clonidine exposure days (p=0.01). Fewer infants required pharmacotherapy (p=0.02).

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates how a comprehensive initiative can improve care for infants with neonatal abstinence syndrome in an open-bay or a high-acuity neonatal intensive care unit when rooming-in is not available or other comorbidities are present.
Grass-roots junior doctor communication network in response to the COVID-19 pandemic: a service evaluation
Authors: Sivananthan Arun , Machin Matthew , Zijlstra Geiske , Harris Alexander , Radhakrishnan Shiva T , Crook Peter , Phillips Georgina , Denning Max Christopher , Patel Nisha , Russell Georgina , Darzi Ara , Kinross James , Brown Ruth
Published: May 2021

Background

COVID-19 was declared a worldwide pandemic on 11 March 2020. Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust provides 1412 inpatient beds staffed by 1200 junior doctors and faced a large burden of COVID-19 admissions.

Local problem

A survey of doctors revealed only 20% felt confident that they would know to whom they could raise concerns and that most were getting information from a combination of informal work discussions, trust emails, social media and medical literature.

Methods

This quality improvement project was undertaken aligning with Standards for Quality Improvement Reporting Excellence 2.0 guidelines. Through an iterative process, a digital network (Imperial Covid cOmmunications Network; ICON) using existing smartphone technologies was developed. Concerns were collated from the junior body and conveyed to the leadership team (vertical—bottom-up using Google Form) and responses were conveyed from leadership to the junior body (vertical—top-down using WhatsApp and Zoom). Quantitative analysis on engagement with the network (members of the group and number of issues raised) and qualitative assessment (thematic analysis on issues) were undertaken.

Results

Membership of the ICON WhatsApp group peaked at 780 on 17 May 2020. 197 concerns were recorded via the Google Form system between 20 March and 14 June 2020. There were five overarching themes: organisational and logistics; clinical strategy concerns; staff safety and well-being; clinical (COVID-19) and patient care; and facilities. 94.4% of members agreed ICON was helpful in receiving updates and 88.9% agreed ICON improved collaboration.

Conclusions

This work demonstrates that a coordinated network using existing smartphone technologies and a novel communications structure can improve collaboration between senior leadership and junior doctors. Such a network could play an important role during times of pressure in a healthcare system.
Implementation of an organ space infection prevention bundle reduces the rate of organ space infection after elective colorectal surgery
Authors: Faragher Ian , Tham Nicole , Hong Michael , Guy Stephen , Yeung Justin
Published: May 2021

Background

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are morbid and costly complications after elective colorectal surgery. SSI prevention bundles have been shown to reduce SSI in colorectal surgery, but their impact on organ space infections (OSI) is variable. Adoption of an evidence-based practice without an implementation strategy is often unsuccessful. Our aim was to successfully implement an OSI prevention bundle and to achieve a cost-effective reduction in OSI following elective left-sided colorectal operations.

Methods

The Translating Research into Practice model was used to implement an OSI prevention bundle in all patients undergoing elective left-sided colorectal resections by a single unit from November 2018 to September 2019. The new components included oral antibiotics with mechanical bowel preparation, when required, and use of impermeable surgical gowns. Other standardised components included alcoholic chlorhexidine skin preparation, glove change after bowel handling prior to wound closure with clean instruments. The primary outcome was OSI. Secondary outcomes included bundle compliance, unintended consequences and total patient costs. Outcomes were compared with all patients undergoing elective left-sided colorectal resections at the same institution in 2017.

Results

Elective colorectal resections were performed in 173 patients across two cohorts. The compliance rate with bundle items was 63% for all items and 93% for one omitted item. There was a reduction in OSI from 12.9% (11 of 85) to 3.4% (3 of 88, p<0.05) after implementation of the OSI prevention bundle. The average cost of an OSI was $A36 900. The estimated savings for preventing eight OSIs by using the OSI bundle in the second cohort was $A295 198.

Conclusion

Successful implementation of an OSI prevention bundle was associated with a reduced rate of OSI after elective colorectal surgery. The OSI bundle and its implementation were cost-effective. Further study is required to investigate the sustainability of the OSI prevention bundle.
Detecting factorization effect in continuous-time quantum walks
Authors: Zhu Jin-Hui , Lu Li-Hua , Li You-Quan
Published: May 2021

We consider an continuous-time quantum walk on triple graphs with a potential well in one of the terminal sites on the main chain and study its dynamical properties in the open system by introducing a ‘spontaneous damping’ process between the terminal site and its nearest neighbour one. Calculating the stable probability of the terminal site and the time evolution of probabilities of the other sites on the main chain, we show that the system can manifest the factorization and coherence protection phenomena when the length and position of the side chain satisfy some concrete conditions. Furthermore we investigate the effect of disorder on the hopping strength and show that the existence of the disorder can destroy the coherence protection phenomena and increase the stable probability of the terminal site on the main chain.
The Controversial Role of Glucose‐6‐Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency on Cardiovascular Disease: A Narrative Review
Authors: Dore Maria Pina , Parodi Guido , Portoghese Michele , Pes Giovanni Mario
Published: May 2021

Cardiovascular disorders (CVD) are highly prevalent and the leading cause of death worldwide. Atherosclerosis is responsible for most cases of CVD. The plaque formation and subsequent thrombosis in atherosclerosis constitute an ongoing process that is influenced by numerous risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, obesity, smoking, inflammation, and sedentary lifestyle. Among the various risk and protective factors, the role of glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, the most common inborn enzyme disorder across populations, is still debated. For decades, it has been considered a protective factor against the development of CVD. However, in the recent years, growing scientific evidence has suggested that this inherited condition may act as a CVD risk factor. The role of G6PD deficiency in the atherogenic process has been investigated using in vitro or ex vivo cellular models, animal models, and epidemiological studies in human cohorts of variable size and across different ethnic groups, with conflicting results. In this review, the impact of G6PD deficiency on CVD was critically reconsidered, taking into account the most recent acquisitions on molecular and biochemical mechanisms, namely, antioxidative mechanisms, glutathione recycling, and nitric oxide production, as well as their mutual interactions, which may be impaired by the enzyme defect in the context of the pentose phosphate pathway. Overall, current evidence supports the notion that G6PD downregulation may favor the onset and evolution of atheroma in subjects at risk of CVD. Given the relatively high frequency of this enzyme deficiency in several regions of the world, this finding might be of practical importance to tailor surveillance guidelines and facilitate risk stratification.
Modelling and Analyzing the Potential Controls for Neospora caninum Infection in Dairy Cattle Using an Epidemic Approach
Authors: Liu Yue , Magouras Ioannis , Lo Wing-Cheong
Published: May 2021

Neospora caninum (N. caninum) infection, one of the major causes of abortions in dairy cattle, has brought a huge loss to farmers worldwide. In this study, we develop a six‐compartment susceptible‐infected model of N. caninum transmission which is later reduced to a two‐equation system. Potential controls including medication, test‐and‐cull, and vaccination are proposed and analyzed, and the corresponding reproduction numbers are derived. The conditions for the global stabilities of disease‐free and endemic equilibria are investigated with analytical solutions and geometric approach. Furthermore, uncertainty and sensitivity analysis shows that three control strategies are effective towards the varied environment, whereas the effectiveness of each measure highly depends on parameters related to control actions. Dynamics of reproduction numbers illustrate that disease elimination can be achieved by three types of controls: (1) adopting medication with medicine efficacy higher than 0.4 to prevent vertical transmission, (2) implementing test‐and‐cull with culling coverage larger than 0.3, and (3) taking vaccine with coverage larger than 0.1. Numerical results suggest that preventive measures should at least include the prevention of access of other hosts, such as dogs, to cattle; otherwise, these control measures will lose effectiveness. Our presented study provides guidance for decision‐making on N. caninum infected farm management.
Application of Artificial Intelligence in the Establishment of an Association Model between Metabolic Syndrome, TCM Constitution, and the Guidance of Medicated Diet Care
Authors: Chien Pei- Li , Liu Chi-Feng , Huang Hui-Ting , Jou Hei-Jen , Chen Shih-Ming , Young Tzuu-Guang , Wang Yi-Feng , Liao Pei-Hung
Published: May 2021

Background. This study conducted exploratory research using artificial intelligence methods. The main purpose of this study is to establish an association model between metabolic syndrome and the TCM (traditional Chinese medicine) constitution using the characteristics of individual physical examination data and to provide guidance for medicated diet care. Methods. Basic demographic and laboratory data were collected from a regional hospital health examination database in northern Taiwan, and artificial intelligence algorithms, such as logistic regression, Bayesian network, and decision tree, were used to analyze and construct the association model between metabolic syndrome and the TCM constitution. Findings. It was found that the phlegm-dampness constitution (90.6%) accounts for the majority of TCM constitution classifications with a high risk of metabolic syndrome, and high cholesterol, blood glucose, and waist circumference were statistically significantly correlated with the phlegm-dampness constitution. This study also found that the age of patients with metabolic syndrome has been advanced, and shift work is one of the risk indicators. Therefore, based on the association model between metabolic syndrome and TCM constitution, in the future, metabolic syndrome can be predicted through the syndrome differentiation of the TCM constitution, and relevant medicated diet care schemes can be recommended for improvement. Conclusion. In order to increase the public’s knowledge and methods for mitigating metabolic syndrome, in the future, nursing staff can provide nonprescription medicated diet-related nursing guidance information via the prediction and assessment of the TCM constitution.
Improved Overall Survival of Colorectal Cancer under Multidisciplinary Team: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Peng Dong , Cheng Yu-Xi , Cheng Yong
Published: May 2021

Purpose. The purpose of the current meta‐analysis was to evaluate whether multidisciplinary team improved overall survival of colorectal cancer. Methods. PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library database were searched from inception to October 25, 2020. The hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence (CI) of overall survival (OS) were calculated. Results. A total of 11 studies with 30814 patients were included in this meta‐analysis. After pooling the HRs, the MDT group was associated with better OS compared with the non‐MDT group (HR = 0.81, 95% CI 0.69‐0.94, p = 0.005). In subgroup analysis of stage IV colorectal cancer, the MDT group was associated with better OS as well (HR = 0.73, 95% CI 0.59‐0.90, p = 0.004). However, in terms of postoperative mortality, no significant difference was found between MDT and non‐MDT groups (OR = 0.84, 95% CI 0.44‐1.61, p = 0.60). Conclusion. MDT could improve OS of colorectal cancer patients.
An Interactive Dashboard Using a Virtual Assistant for Visualizing Smart Manufacturing
Authors: Jwo Jung-Sing , Lin Ching-Sheng , Lee Cheng-Hsiung
Published: May 2021

In the era of Industry 4.0, manufacturing sites are becoming more sophisticated and connected with the aid of Information Technology (IT) and Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) infrastructure. What makes a smart manufacturing enterprise as opposed to a traditional one is the ability to solve existing problems and predict issues to fix them before they occur while creating advantaged value. Dashboards, assisting decision-makers in business markets, can organize data from machines, sensors, and workers into a real-time visual representation. They provide a quick overview of how your entire business is operating and where you stand in relation to the key performance indicators for supporting the development toward more resource-efficient and sustainable processes. However, if users need more information related to the indicators shown on the dashboard, current approaches mainly rely on human effort to search and retrieve the information. The lack of interaction between the dashboard and users often results in inconvenient operations and limits the usage of the tool, especially in the manufacturing industry. In this study, an interaction design is developed to resolve the issue. The proposed dashboard is developed by a three-layer structure including data layer, processing layer, and presentation layer. A virtual assistant is introduced to play the role of a mediator between the dashboard and the user. It provides users with a natural language interface to communicate, directly interacts with the dashboard on users’ behalf, and actively reminds relevant personnel to expedite data collection. Compared with the traditional human-machine interface, the adoption of this lightweight and easy-to-use design can not only create a frictionless and intuitive experience but also ensure that data is displayed in a timely manner.
Dynamic Response and Failure Characteristics of Slope with Weak Interlayer under Action of Near‐Fault Ground Motion
Authors: Yang Bing , Hou Jiangrong , Liu Yifei , Zhou Zihong
Published: May 2021

Investigations into the Wenchuan earthquake (2008, China) demonstrated that landslides were concentrated in the near‐fault areas, and numerous large‐scale landslides occurred in slopes with weak interlayers. A mathematical model was established based on the shear beam theory, while a numerical model was developed based on the discrete element method which perfectly matched layer boundary theory. Through a theoretical analysis and numerical simulation, the dynamic response and failure modes of the slope with a weak interlayer under the near‐fault ground motion were studied. It was found that a combined effect took place between the near‐fault ground motion and the weak interlayer, causing the slope near a fault to be destroyed more easily. The coupling between the near‐fault ground motion and the weak interlayer leads to a maximum amplification effect of the slope. The existence of a weak interlayer induces nonconforming vibration between the upper and the lower rock masses of the interlayer. The variation in the amplification effect along the slope elevation is related to the ratio of the input seismic period to the natural slope period. Under horizontal ground motion, weak interlayers will be subjected to impacting and shearing action. The failure mode of the slope with a weak interlayer under near‐fault ground motion can be expressed as a trailing edge tension crack, as well as weak interlayer impacting and shearing failure.
Evaluation of the Economic Relationships on the Basis of Statistical Decision‐Making in Complex Neutrosophic Environment
Authors: Nasir Abdul , Jan Naeem , Gumaei Abdu , Khan Sami Ullah , Al-Rakhami Mabrook
Published: May 2021

Fuzzy sets and fuzzy logics are used to model events with imprecise, incomplete, and uncertain information. Researchers have developed numerous methods and techniques to cope with fuzziness or uncertainty. This research intends to introduce the novel concepts of complex neutrosophic relations (CNRs) and its types based on the idea of complex neutrosophic sets (CNSs). In addition, these concepts are supported by suitable examples. A CNR discusses the quality of a relationship using the degree of membership, the degree of abstinence, and the degree of nonmembership. Each of these degrees is a complex number from the unit circle in a complex plane. The real part of complex‐valued degrees represents the amplitude term, while the imaginary part represents the phase term. This property empowers CNRs to model multidimensional variables. Moreover, some interesting properties and useful results have also been proved. Furthermore, the practicality of the proposed concepts is verified by an application, which discusses the use of the proposed concepts in statistical decision‐making. Additionally, a comparative analysis between the novel concepts of CNRs and the existing methods is carried out.
Factors Influencing Sleeve Grouting Quality for Prefabricated Building: An Interpretive Structural Modeling Approach
Authors: Ji Yingbo , Zhao Zihao , Yao Fuyi , Li Hong Xian , Li Yanyao , Du Xiaoyun
Published: May 2021

The defect in quality caused by the noncompactness of sleeve grouting has become the main obstacle restricting the further implementation of the prefabricated building in China. Studies have been conducted to explore the influencing factors of inadequate grouting; however, few studies attempt to investigate the complex interrelationship and lack of systematic cognition among these factors. To fill this gap, this study conducted a comprehensive literature review to collect the influencing factors of sleeve grouting and verified the reliability of these factors using the combined methods of brainstorming and semistructured expert discussion. A total of 18 key factors were identified and determined. The structural interpretation model (SIM) and Matrice d’Impacts Croisés Multiplication Appliquée à un Classement (MICMAC) approaches were then used to analyze, depict, and explain the internal relationships between the factors. The results indicate that all factors were classified into six levels, among which poor responsibility of supervisors and weather conditions are the most basic factors, while grouting speed and a loose‐sealing rubber plug are the most important factors. Finally, a three‐level control strategy was proposed to improve the compactness quality of sleeve grouting. The research findings provide valuable guidelines for managers to eliminate the grouting quality defect and to further the development of prefabricated buildings in China.
Ursolic Acid Regulates Intestinal Microbiota and Inflammatory Cell Infiltration to Prevent Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Sheng Qinsong , Li Fei , Chen Guanping , Li Jiacheng , Li Jing , Wang YiFan , Lu Yingyan , Li Qun , Li Mingqian , Chai Kequn
Published: May 2021

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic and relapsing inflammatory bowel disorder in the colon and rectum leading to low life-quality and high societal costs. Ursolic acid (UA) is a natural product with pharmacological and biological activities. The studies are aimed at investigating the protective and treatment effects of UA against the dextran sulfate sodium- (DSS-) induced UC mouse model and its underlying mechanism. UA was orally administered at different time points before and after the DSS-induced model. Mice body weight, colon length, and histological analysis were used to evaluate colon tissue damage and therapeutic evaluation. Intestinal transcriptome and microbe 16 s sequencing was used to analyze the mechanisms of UA in the prevention and treatment of UC. The early prevention effect of UA could effectively delay mouse weight loss and colon length shorten. UA alleviated UC inflammation and lowered serum and colon IL-6 levels. Three classical inflammatory pathways: MAPKs, IL-6/STAT3, and PI3K were downregulated by UA treatment. The proportion of macrophages and neutrophils in inflammatory cell infiltration was reduced in UA treatment groups. UA could significantly reduce the richness of intestinal flora to avoid the inflammatory response due to the destruction of the intestinal epithelial barrier. The function of UA against UC was through reducing intestinal flora abundance and regulating inflammatory and fatty acid metabolism signaling pathways to affect immune cell infiltration and cytokine expression.
Prevalence and Factors Associated with Self-Reported Vision Disability among the Elderly in Malaysia: Findings from National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2018
Authors: Rezali Muhammad Solihin , Ab Wahab Nor’ Ain , Sahril Norhafizah , Ramli Muhd Hafizuddin Taufik , Shahein Nik Adilah , Chan Ying Ying , Ab Majid Nur Liana , Ahmad Mohd Hasnan , Kassim Mohd Shaiful Azlan
Published: May 2021

Introduction. Disability has adverse effects on health, wellbeing, and life quality. Vision disorder is one of the top-ranked causes of disability in the elderly population. This study aims to determine the prevalence and factors associated with vision disability among the elderly in Malaysia. Methodology. Data collection from National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2018 was obtained. This survey focused on elderly health by using two-stage stratified cluster sampling design. The Washington Group Extended Question Set on Functioning (WG ES-F) was used to determine the vision disability. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 21.0 utilizing a complex sample design with multivariable logistic regression analysis to determine the prevalence and associated factors to vision disability. Results. A total of 3,977 elderly completed the vision disability questionnaire. The overall prevalence of vision disability among those who were 60 years old and above was 4.5%. Multiple logistic regression revealed that no formal education (AOR: 6.69, 95% CI: 1.52, 29.49), only primary education (AOR: 4.26, 95% CI: 1.01, 18.03), unemployed/retiree or homemaker (AOR: 3.25, 95% CI: 1.79, 5.89), hypertension (AOR: 1.45, 95% CI: 1.00, 2.09), and malnourished elderly (AOR: 2.84, 95% CI: 1.76, 461) had higher odds for having vision disability. Conclusion. The findings suggest that a low education level, unemployment, hypertension, and malnourishment are significant risk factors for VD among Malaysia’s elderly. Strengthening awareness campaigns to increase VD awareness and provide high-quality rehabilitation services must target specific groups, such as the elderly with a low level of education and the unemployed. Empower primary healthcare providers with the knowledge and skills necessary to improve the quality of eye care delivery and expand eye screening in settling VD issues nationally.
Impact of Urban Rail Transit Network on Residential and Commercial Land Values in China: A Complex Network Perspective
Authors: Wen Shiping , Shi Jiangang , Zhang Wei
Published: May 2021

Urban rail transit can improve a city’s accessibility. However, high construction and operation costs restrict the development of urban rail transit. Value capture recoups the additional value that the investments of urban rail transit confer to local land and is considered to be an effective measure to alleviate this financial problem. Understanding the land value uplift effects of urban rail transit is essential for understanding value capture. This study applied a Space‐P model of urban rail transit network based on complex network theory and demonstrated the influence of urban rail transit network characteristics on residential and commercial land prices. The model was tested with eight metropolises in China, using the 2003 to 2022 timeframe as the context. The results showed a significant positive correlation between the number of nodes and the land prices, the average clustering coefficient was highly positively correlated with the land prices, and there was a significant negative correlation between the average path length and the land prices. This study provides theoretical support for value capture, is beneficial for urban rail transit planning, and supports improvements in the development quality of urban rail transit networks.
Separating Chinese Character from Noisy Background Using GAN
Authors: Huang Bin , Lin Jiaqi , Liu Jinming , Chen Jie , Zhang Jiemin , Hu Yendo , Chen Erkang , Yan Jingwen
Published: May 2021

Separating printed or handwritten characters from a noisy background is valuable for many applications including test paper autoscoring. The complex structure of Chinese characters makes it difficult to obtain the goal because of easy loss of fine details and overall structure in reconstructed characters. This paper proposes a method for separating Chinese characters based on generative adversarial network (GAN). We used ESRGAN as the basic network structure and applied dilated convolution and a novel loss function that improve the quality of reconstructed characters. Four popular Chinese fonts (Hei, Song, Kai, and Imitation Song) on real data collection were tested, and the proposed design was compared with other semantic segmentation approaches. The experimental results showed that the proposed method effectively separates Chinese characters from noisy background. In particular, our methods achieve better results in terms of Intersection over Union (IoU) and optical character recognition (OCR) accuracy.
Effect of Nursing Intervention in the Operating Room Based on Simple Virtual Reality Augmented Technology on Preventing Gastrointestinal Surgical Incision Infection
Authors: Wang Yanhua , Zhang Dan , Wei Shujing
Published: May 2021

Gastrointestinal surgery is currently a common gastrointestinal surgery in clinical practice. In recent years, the incidence of gastrointestinal diseases has gradually increased and increased as the lifestyle of modern people has developed and changed. Both physical health and quality of life have a serious impact. In the actual process, it was found that multiple links in operating room care may increase the risk of postoperative infections for patients. Therefore, this article proposes nursing in operating room based on simple virtual reality augmented technology. This article mainly studies the effect of nursing intervention on preventing gastrointestinal surgical incision infection, and hopes to provide help for preventing gastrointestinal surgical incision infection. In this trial, 80 patients with gastrointestinal surgery were randomly divided into two groups, each with 40 people. The experimental group was treated with an operating room nursing intervention combined with traditional treatment methods. Controls were treated with traditional nursing combined with traditional treatment, and both groups were analyzed for acceptance of nursing intervention in the operating room, poor mood, various indicator levels, postoperative complications, and postoperative incisional infections. The experiment proved that the postoperative rehabilitation indexes of the experimental group were better than those of the control group, the excellent rate of wound healing reached 92.5%, and the incidence of wound infection was only 5%, which was lower than that of the control group. This demonstrates that nursing intervention in the operating room can help to reduce the infection rate at the patient’s incision site, increase the level of surgical indicators, promote healing of the incision site as quickly as possible, and significantly improve the safety of clinical treatment.
Application Prospects of Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy for Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia and the Challenges Encountered
Authors: Tong Yajie , Zuo Jingye , Yue Dongmei
Published: May 2021

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a common chronic lung disease in premature babies, especially affecting those with very low or extremely low birth weights. Survivors experience adverse lung and neurological defects including cognitive dysfunction. This impacts the prognosis of children with BPD and may result in developmental delays. The currently available options for the treatment of BPD are limited owing to low efficacy or several side effects; therefore, there is a lack of effective treatments for BPD. The treatment for BPD must help in the repair of damaged lung tissue and promote further growth of the lung tissue. In recent years, the emergence of stem cell therapy, especially mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy, has improved the treatment of BPD to a great extent. This article briefly reviews the advantages, research progress, and challenges faced with the use of MSCs in the treatment of BPD. Stem cell therapy is beneficial as it repairs damaged tissues by reducing inflammation, fibrosis, and by acting against oxidative stress damage. Experimental trials have also proven that MSCs provide a promising avenue for BPD treatment. However, there are challenges such as the possibility of MSCs contributing to tumorous growths, the presence of heterogeneous cell populations resulting in variable efficacy, and the ethical considerations regarding the use of this treatment in humans. Therefore, more research must be conducted to determine whether MSC therapy can be approved as a treatment option for BPD.
Acute Glaucoma Filtering Surgery Failure following Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus Infection
Authors: Kandarakis Stylianos A. , Diagourtas Andreas , Petrou Petros , Vingopoulos Filippos , Droutsas Konstantinos , Papakonstantinou Evangelia , Georgalas Iias
Published: May 2021

Herein, we report a case of acute failure of a previously successful trabeculectomy, following an infection with herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO). HZO remains a common infection, especially among elderly and immunocompromised patients. There is a strong link between HZO infection, the incidence of secondary glaucoma, and the need for glaucoma filtering surgery. Though, to our knowledge, there are no cases reporting on the effect that a concomitant infection may have on a previously successful trabeculectomy. In our case, a 76-year-old immunocompetent male with primary open-angle glaucoma in both eyes and a history of a successful right eye trabeculectomy 1 year earlier presented with acute primary HZO involving the ophthalmic branch of the right trigeminal nerve. Appropriate topical and systemic treatment was immediately initiated. Three days later, the trabeculectomy bleb showed hyperemia and flattening and concomitant rise of intraocular pressure was noted. A week later, the cutaneous signs were improving yet the trabeculectomy had failed and high intraocular pressure was established, requiring both topical and systemic antiglaucoma medications. Our study suggests that a previously successful trabeculectomy may manifest signs of compromise and subsequent failure following a HZO infection.
Microphthalmia-Associated Transcription Factor in Senescence and Age-Related Diseases
Authors: Zhang Jian , Mou Yi , Gong Hui , Chen Honghan , Xiao Hengyi
Published: May 2021

Although microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) has been known for decades as a key regulator for melanocytic differentiation, recent studies expanded its other roles in multiple biological processes. Among these newfound roles, the relationship between MITF and aging is attractive; however, the underlying mechanism remains elusive. Here, we review the documented cues that highlight the implication of MITF in the aging process and particularly discuss the possible mechanisms underlying the participation of MITF in cellular senescence. First, it summarizes the association of MITF with melanocytic senescence, including the roles of MITF in cell cycle regulation, DNA damage repair, oxidative stress response, and the generation of senescence-associated secretory phenotype. Then, it collects the information involving MITF-related senescent changes in nonmelanocytes, such as retinal pigment epithelium cells, osteoclasts, and cardiomyocytes. This review may deepen the understanding of MITF function and be helpful to develop new strategies for improving geriatric health.
Maintaining an Adult Hematology/Oncology Service at a Tertiary Care Center during the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic: An Eight-Week-Experience with a Newly Implemented Procedural Plan
Authors: Hemmati Philipp G. , Fischer Dorothea , Breywisch Frank , Wohlfarth Sabine , Kramer Matthias , Paland Matthias , Tometten Lukas , Badakhshi Harun , Ripberger Gerald , Maschmeyer Georg
Published: May 2021

Treatment of cancer patients has become challenging when large parts of hospital services need to be shut down as a consequence of a local COVID-19 outbreak that requires rapid containment measures, in conjunction with the shifting of priorities to vital services. Reports providing conceptual frameworks and first experiences on how to maintain a clinical hematology/oncology service during the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic are scarce. Here, we report our first 8 weeks of experience after implementing a procedural plan at a hematology/oncology unit with its associated cancer center at a large academic teaching hospital in Germany. By strictly separating team workflows and implementing vigorous testing for SARS-CoV-2 infections for all patients and staff members irrespective of clinical symptoms, we were successful in maintaining a comprehensive hematology/oncology service to allow for the continuation of treatment for our patients. Notably, this was achieved without introducing or further transmitting SARS-CoV-2 infections within the unit and the entire center. Although challenging, our approach appears safe and feasible and may help others to set up or optimize their procedures for cancer treatment or for other exceedingly vulnerable patient cohorts.
Can a Polyp Detection and Characterization System Predict Complete Resection?
Authors: Kliegis Leon , Obst Wilfried , Bruns Johannes , Weigt Jochen
Published: May 2021

Introduction: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is one of the most evolving fields in endoscopy. We aimed to test if a system for polyp detection and polyp characterization can be used to predict complete endoscopic resection of colon adenomas. Methods: We used the CAD-Eye AI system (Fujifilm Europe) in consecutive patients who received polypectomy using a cold snare. After resection, the submucosal space was flushed with water using an irrigation pump. Images were obtained using the CAD Eye system, and the characterization of the system was noted and afterward compared to histology of the removed specimen. Results: In total, 17 polypectomies were observed, and in no case the AI was able to give information about resection status. First, the resection plane itself was classified as being adenomatous in all cases, while, second, all adenomas were resected completely, thus harboring no potential for overlying misinterpretations in the images. Conclusion: An AI system trained to characterize polyps in healthy surrounding colorectal mucosa cannot predict the state of resection after removal of the adenoma. This is explained by the training and programming. Endoscopists using AI from now on should learn about the basics of AI and the pitfalls in interpreting results from AI.
O estilo dos gêneros: uma metodologia de análise
Authors: Pereira Daniervelin Renata Marques
Published: May 2021

A Semiótica Francesa e os estudos do gênero na perspectiva bakhtiniana têm sido associados como duas correntes que se complementam nas investigações sobre o discurso. A Semiótica, nascida de relações interdisciplinares entre a linguística, os estudos da narrativa e da filosofia, também se abre a alargamentos coerentes com seus pressupostos teóricos. Assim é que Bakhtin é, em sua concepção do signo como social, visto como relação proveitosa teoricamente para os estudos do estilo do gênero, que levam em conta a recorrência de um modo de ser de um determinado gênero em suas várias realizações. Para compreendermos melhor esse percurso de estudos, fizemos uma pesquisa bibliográfica nos principais trabalhos de Discini e de outros pesquisadores que vêm adotando essa articulação teórica para identificarmos concepções presentes e a proposta teórico-metodológica nessa perspectiva. Para demonstrar como a proposta pode ser aplicada, analisamos o gênero vídeo-resenha, a partir de três exemplares coletados na internet. Com essa pesquisa, resgatamos os principais avanços teóricos, bem como os desafios do que ainda precisa ser desenvolvido teórico-metodologicamente no estudo do estilo dos gêneros.