bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stark-shift-chirped rapid-adiabatic-passage technique in tripod systems
Authors: Shirkhaghah N. , Saadati-Niari M. , Nedaee-Shakarab B.
Published: March 2021

We show that the technique of Stark-chirped rapid adiabatic passage (SCRAP), can be implemented in tripod quantum systems. We propose a scheme for coherent superposition among two ground states via Stark-shiftchirped rapid adiabatic passage technique in a tripod system. Tripod-SCRAP uses four laser pulses: an intense far-off-resonance Stark laser pulse modifies the transition frequency between the states by Stark shifting their energies and three nearly resonant pump, Stokes, and control laser pulses that fractionally transfer the population between the ground states via adiabatic passage. In our scheme, the pulse duration of the pump pulse must be larger than the pulse duration of the Stokes and control pulses, although with a smaller amplitude, and the atom encounters with the pump, Stokes, control, and Stark laser pulses with counterintuitive order (Stokes pulse arrives before the rest of the pulses). This technique can be applied to one-photon as well as multiphoton transitions and it is not necessary to vanish the pulses (pump and Stokes) simultaneously and it is a powerful alternative tool for f-STIRAP and tripod-STIRAP techniques at least when inhomogeneous broadenings are included. inhomogeneous broadening. This technique is robust against moderate variations in the intensities of the laser pulses,in detunings, and in delays between the pulses.
Eigensolutions of the N-dimensional Schrödinger equation interacting with Varshni-Hulthén potential model
Authors: Inyang E. P. , William E. S. , Obu J. A.
Published: March 2021

Analytical solutions of the N-dimensional Schrödinger equation for the newly proposed Varshni-Hulthén potential are obtained within the framework of Nikiforov-Uvarov method by using Greene-Aldrich approximation scheme to the centrifugal barrier. The numerical energy eigenvalues and the corresponding normalized eigenfunctions are obtained in terms of Jacobi polynomials. Special cases of the potential are equally studied and their numerical energy eigenvalues are in agreement with those obtained previously with other methods. However, the behavior of the energy for the ground state and several excited states is illustrated graphically.
Evaluation and optimization of CES performances: application of Pareto principle to KPIs
Authors: Cecchini Alessia , Masselli Grazia Maria Pia , Silvestri Sergio
Published: March 2021

In recent times the approach to health care has been mostly influenced by the growing number of biomedical equipment used in hospitals, which needs the presence of the Clinical Engineering Service (CES).
The aim of this work is to suggest a methodology to improve the performance of a CES through the application of Pareto principle to main Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). The methodology is applied by focusing on the use of KPIs that represent a quantifiable measure of achieving goals set by an organization. In this study five KPIs are considered: Uptime, MTTR (mean time to repair), PPM (percentage preventive maintenance), MTBF (mean time between failures) and the COSR (cost of service ratio). The first three indicators express the measure of CES efficiency in ensuring regular maintenance.
The first step consists in retrieving data related to work orders for the years 2015-2016 on 6000 installed devices, carried out by a management software. The second step is to get the results through the use of an environment for numerical calculation and statistical analysis.
In order to identify the main critical issues that may be present, three indicators (Uptime, MTTR and MTBF) are analyzed by applying the Pareto principle (i.e. 20% of the causes produce 80% of the effects). Considering the totality of work orders, therefore, it is possible to concentrate on only 20% of them in order to focus on a small group to understand the correlations between them. Identifying these characteristics means identifying the main critical issues that are present, on which action must be taken, and which affect 80% of the overall behavior. The COSR and PPM indicators, instead, suggest distribution models that allow to focus attention on the most critical devices.
In conclusion, the way to analyze the results is obtained, when possible, by applying Pareto principle. Therefore, a CES will be able to focus on a few causes of poor performance. The achievement of these results could allow the standardization of the method used, enabling it to be applied to any healthcare system.
Lean and Computerized Management System for Non-Hospital Owned Medical Equipment in Hospital
Authors: Kun Zheng , Wu Yunyun , Zheng CaiXian
Published: March 2021

Many challenges exist in the management of non-hospital-owned medical equipment. This paper proposes implementing a novel kind of lean and computerized management method, including the management policy, procedures, agreement signing, equipment installation, acceptance and maintenance, and exit procedure. The result shows that the Lean and computerized management system can improve oversight and assure the safe integration of non-hospital-owned equipment to reduce liability exposure and increase compliance with regulations.
Florilegium: Chronica Quondam et Futura
Authors: Toswell M. J.
Published: March 2021

Jointly edited by Roger Blockley and Douglas Wurtele, the first volume of Florilegium appeared in 1979, with the subtitle “Carleton University Annual Papers in Classical Antiquity and the Middle Ages.” The fourteen papers in the volume included a piece on Trotula by Beryl Rowland (later the honorand of volume 6 of the journal, and later still an honorary consulting editor), a consideration by Connie Hieatt (now an honorary member of the Canadian Society of Medievalists) of Vincent of Beauvais as a source for the Old Norse Karlamagnús Saga, and a piece on the Distichs of Cato and medieval parody by Bruno Roy (later the first plenary speaker at the newly-formed Société canadienne des médiévistes, and the only plenary speaker to date to have served a return engagement for the CSM/SCM). George Rigg was on the Editorial Board, as he has been ever since. A few things, however, have changed. The editors encouraged submissions in English, French, or Latin; today's Florilegium, part of a less learned era, can only accept submissions in Canada’s two languages. The journal was described as “an annual devoted to the ancient and medieval cultures of Europe, North Africa, and the Near East” and in the preface the editors explicitly encourage “papers which take a cross-cultural or inter-disciplinary approach to history, literature, and other relevant areas of study, which explore the continuities between the ancient and the mediaeval world, and which try to develop new methodologies or adapt those developed by other disciplines.” The most recent issue of the journal open to general submissions has the more succinct “an annual publication devoted to studies of Late Antiquity and the Middle Ages.” Finally, the editors comment on the typing and layout of the journal, indicating their use of an IBM Selectric, which requires the use of unresolved righthand margins. Today the journal requires the use of Adobe FrameMaker, an array of fonts and special characters, and it rejoices in an idiosyncratic layout which is precisely half the size of an 8½" X 14" page. Like the journal’s first iteration, this layout, too, “may offend purists...moreover, it halves the cost of production, an important consideration in a period of stringency.” Also offending purists, but making it easier to recognise volumes during packaging, is the constantly-changing (but always not pastel) colour of the cover.
Editorial: Atividade Policial Baseada em Evidências
Authors: Sousa Stenio Santos
Published: March 2021

A polícia frequentemente está associada a questões que envolvem

segurança, violência e criminalidade. Temas como terrorismo,

guerra contra as drogas, cibercriminalidade e corrupção impactam o

cotidiano do cidadão. Daí decorre uma pressão por resultados.

Ao estilhaçar velhas crenças a partir de metodologias que se

propõem ir para além do senso comum, a polícia passa ser capaz de

apresentar soluções para problemas da realidade cotidiana e que não

costumam ser apreciados ou confrontados, mesmo diante do fracasso

de políticas públicas aplicadas.

Testar hipóteses, em confronto direto com a realidade circundante

e em busca de sua alteração, eis a tarefa de uma polícia científica.
An Investigation of the Students` Opinion on the Use of Digital Storytelling in Learning English
Authors: Yentri Anggeraini
Published: March 2021

Various kinds of technology tools and media can be used to facilitate the leaching and learning English in this era. One of them is digital storytelling. It is a multimedia text including images, audio, or video accompanied by a narrated soundtrack to tell a story or give information. It combines the functions of visual, verbal, and audio those are important for language comprehension and skills. This present study aimed at investigating the students` opinions on the use of digital storytelling in EFL classroom. The questionnaire and interview were distributed to 31 participants as the main data. The results indicated that 84% students like learning English through digital storytelling, 81% of them enjoy presenting and sharing their digital literacy, and 77% of them argue that digital storytelling can motivate them to read a lot. It can be derived that digital storytelling makes the students participate actively during the learning process, allows the students to work collaboratively, and provide the students to be digitally literate.
Thirty minutes is a small price to pay: Care, creativity, and community-building
Authors: Luetkemeyer Jennifer R.
Published: March 2021

This essay is an overview of three lessons that the author learned while teaching during the pandemic. In making adjustments to her courses, she realized the importance of purposeful care, creativity, and community-building. As the title implies, all three can be achieved by committing just thirty minutes.
Variation in VKORC1 Is Associated with Vascular Dementia
Authors: Mur Jure , McCartney Daniel L. , Chasman Daniel I. , Visscher Peter M. , Muniz-Terrera Graciela , Cox Simon R. , Russ Tom C. , Marioni Riccardo E.
Published: March 2021

Background:

The genetic variant rs9923231 ( VKORC1) is associated with differences in the coagulation of blood and consequentially with sensitivity to the drug warfarin. Variation in VKORC1 has been linked in a gene-based test to dementia/Alzheimer’s disease in the parents of participants, with suggestive evidence for an association for rs9923231 ( p = 1.8×10–7), which was included in the genome-wide significant KAT8 locus.

Objective:

Our study aimed to investigate whether the relationship between rs9923231 and dementia persists only for certain dementia sub-types, and if those taking warfarin are at greater risk.

Methods:

We used logistic regression and data from 238,195 participants from UK Biobank to examine the relationship between VKORC1, risk of dementia, and the interplay with warfarin use.

Results:

Parental history of dementia, APOE variant, atrial fibrillation, diabetes, hypertension, and hypercholesterolemia all had strong associations with vascular dementia ( p < 4.6×10–6). The T-allele in rs9923231 was linked to a lower warfarin dose (βperT - allele = –0.29, p < 2×10–16) and risk of vascular dementia (OR = 1.17, p = 0.010), but not other dementia sub-types. However, the risk of vascular dementia was not affected by warfarin use in carriers of the T-allele.

Conclusion:

Our study reports for the first time an association between rs9923231 and vascular dementia, but further research is warranted to explore potential mechanisms and specify the relationship between rs9923231 and features of vascular dementia.
Cerebrospinal Fluid Proteome Changes in Older Non-Cardiac Surgical Patients with Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction
Authors: VanDusen Keith W. , Li Yi-Ju , Cai Victor , Hall Ashley , Hiles Sarah , Thompson J. Will , Moseley M. Arthur , Cooter Mary , Acker Leah , Levy Jerrold H. , Ghadimi Kamrouz , Quiñones Quintin J. , Devinney Michael J. , Chung Stacey , Terrando Niccolò , Moretti Eugene W. , Browndyke Jeffrey N. , Mathew Joseph P. , Berger Miles ,   for the MADCO-PC Investigators
Published: March 2021

Background:

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD), a syndrome of cognitive deficits occurring 1–12 months after surgery primarily in older patients, is associated with poor postoperative outcomes. POCD is hypothesized to result from neuroinflammation; however, the pathways involved remain unclear. Unbiased proteomic analyses have been used to identify neuroinflammatory pathways in multiple neurologic diseases and syndromes but have not yet been applied to POCD.

Objective:

To utilize unbiased mass spectrometry-based proteomics to identify potential neuroinflammatory pathways underlying POCD.

Methods:

Unbiased LC-MS/MS proteomics was performed on immunodepleted cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples obtained before, 24 hours after, and 6 weeks after major non-cardiac surgery in older adults who did ( n = 8) or did not develop POCD ( n = 6). Linear mixed models were used to select peptides and proteins with intensity differences for pathway analysis.

Results:

Mass spectrometry quantified 8,258 peptides from 1,222 proteins in > 50%of patient samples at all three time points. Twelve peptides from 11 proteins showed differences in expression over time between patients with versus without POCD (q < 0.05), including proteins previously implicated in neurodegenerative disease pathophysiology. Additionally, 283 peptides from 182 proteins were identified with trend-level differences (q < 0.25) in expression over time between these groups. Among these, pathway analysis revealed that 50 were from 17 proteins mapping to complement and coagulation pathways (q = 2.44*10–13).

Conclusion:

These data demonstrate the feasibility of performing unbiased mass spectrometry on perioperative CSF samples to identify pathways associated with POCD. Additionally, they provide hypothesis-generating evidence for CSF complement and coagulation pathway changes in patients with POCD.
Reactive power compensation for grid by Packed-U-Cell inverter using model predictive control strategy with intelligent multi-objective scheme
Authors: Anees Mohd. Anas , Tariq Mohd , Lodi Kaif Ahmed , Alam Mahetab , Chakrabortty Ripon K. , Ryan Michael J.
Published: March 2021

This paper proposes a model predictive control strategy for 15 level Packed-U-Cell inverter that satisfies multiple-objectives of low current total harmonic distortion (THD), capacitor voltage balances, supply of desired active and reactive power, as well as lower switching and lower voltage stresses on the switching devices. The proposed device performs well under dynamic conditions and can successfully track the current command during step changes in the power demand. A detailed modeling is presented and discussed. MATLAB/Simulink is used for obtaining the simulation results, and the results are validated in the real time by using a hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) Typhoon 402 real-time emulator.
Hybrid optimization based PID control of ball and beam system
Authors: Srivastava Vishal , Srivastava Smriti
Published: March 2021

Ball and beam is a popular benchmark problem in control engineering. Various control strategies have been proposed on ball & beam system in literature, In this paper, hybrid optimization algorithms have been implemented on PID controller to control ball position and beam angle. Hybrid algorithms combine exploration and exploitation ability of individual algorithm and find optimized value of performance index. In this paper, two hybrid algorithms namely PSO-GSA and PSO-GWO are used to tune controller parameters which in turn improve the system performance. Simulation results show effective and efficient improvement in system performance with these hybrid algorithms. To analyze the performance of these algorithms, time domain parameters and mean square error (MSE) has been taken as performance index. A comparative study of these algorithms with that of individual algorithms namely PSO, GWO, GSA has also been done.
Attribute selection approaches for incomplete interval-value data
Authors: Li Zhaowen , Liao Shimin , Qu Liangdong , Song Yan
Published: March 2021

Attribute selection in an information system (IS) is an important issue when dealing with a large amount of data. An IS with incomplete interval-value data is called an incomplete interval-valued information system (IIVIS). This paper proposes attribute selection approaches for an IIVIS. Firstly, the similarity degree between two information values of a given attribute in an IIVIS is proposed. Then, the tolerance relation on the object set with respect to a given attribute subset is obtained. Next, θ-reduction in an IIVIS is studied. What is more, connections between the proposed reduction and information entropy are revealed. Lastly, three reduction algorithms base on θ-discernibility matrix, θ-information entropy and θ-significance in an IIVIS are given.
An adaptive forecast combination approach based on meta intuitionistic fuzzy functions
Authors: Tak Nihat , Egrioglu Erol , Bas Eren , Yolcu Ufuk
Published: March 2021

Intuitionistic meta fuzzy forecast combination functions are introduced in the paper. There are two challenges in the forecast combination literature, determining the optimum weights and the methods to combine. Although there are a few studies on determining the methods, there are numerous studies on determining the optimum weights of the forecasting methods. In this sense, the questions like “What methods should we choose in the combination?” and “What combination function or the weights should we choose for the methods” are handled in the proposed method. Thus, the first two contributions that the paper aims to propose are to obtain the optimum weights and the proper forecasting methods in combination functions by employing meta fuzzy functions (MFFs). MFFs are recently introduced for aggregating different methods on a specific topic. Although meta-analysis aims to combine the findings of different primary studies, MFFs aim to aggregate different methods based on their performances on a specific topic. Thus, forecasting is selected as the specific topic to propose a novel forecast combination approach inspired by MFFs in this study. Another contribution of the paper is to improve the performance of MFFs by employing intuitionistic fuzzy c-means. 14 meteorological datasets are used to evaluate the performance of the proposed method. Results showed that the proposed method can be a handy tool for dealing with forecasting problems. The outstanding performance of the proposed method is verified in terms of RMSE and MAPE.
Dysregulation of GSK3β-Target Proteins in Skin Fibroblasts of Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1 (DM1) Patients
Authors: Grande Valentina , Hathazi Denisa , O’Connor Emily , Marteau Theo , Schara-Schmidt Ulrike , Hentschel Andreas , Gourdon Genevieve , Nikolenko Nikoletta , Lochmüller Hanns , Roos Andreas
Published: March 2021

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is the most common monogenetic muscular disorder of adulthood. This multisystemic disease is caused by CTG repeat expansion in the 3′-untranslated region of the DM1 protein kinase gene called DMPK. DMPK encodes a myosin kinase expressed in skeletal muscle cells and other cellular populations such as smooth muscle cells, neurons and fibroblasts. The resultant expanded (CUG)n RNA transcripts sequester RNA binding factors leading to ubiquitous and persistent splicing deregulation. The accumulation of mutant CUG repeats is linked to increased activity of glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3β), a highly conserved and ubiquitous serine/threonine kinase with functions in pathways regulating inflammation, metabolism, oncogenesis, neurogenesis and myogenesis. As GSK3β-inhibition ameliorates defects in myogenesis, muscle strength and myotonia in a DM1 mouse model, this kinase represents a key player of DM1 pathobiochemistry and constitutes a promising therapeutic target. To better characterise DM1 patients, and monitor treatment responses, we aimed to define a set of robust disease and severity markers linked to GSK3βby unbiased proteomic profiling utilizing fibroblasts derived from DM1 patients with low (80– 150) and high (2600– 3600) CTG-repeats. Apart from GSK3β increase, we identified dysregulation of nine proteins (CAPN1, CTNNB1, CTPS1, DNMT1, HDAC2, HNRNPH3, MAP2K2, NR3C1, VDAC2) modulated by GSK3β. In silico-based expression studies confirmed expression in neuronal and skeletal muscle cells and revealed a relatively elevated abundance in fibroblasts. The potential impact of each marker in the myopathology of DM1 is discussed based on respective function to inform potential uses as severity markers or for monitoring GSK3β inhibitor treatment responses.
The α-Synuclein Origin and Connectome Model (SOC Model) of Parkinson’s Disease: Explaining Motor Asymmetry, Non-Motor Phenotypes, and Cognitive Decline
Authors: Borghammer Per
Published: March 2021

A new model of Parkinson’s disease (PD) pathogenesis is proposed, the α-Synuclein Origin site and Connectome (SOC) model, incorporating two aspects of α-synuclein pathobiology that impact the disease course for each patient: the anatomical location of the initial α-synuclein inclusion, and α-synuclein propagation dependent on the ipsilateral connections that dominate connectivity of the human brain. In some patients, initial α-synuclein pathology occurs within the CNS, leading to a brain-first subtype of PD. In others, pathology begins in the peripheral autonomic nervous system, leading to a body-first subtype. In brain-first cases, it is proposed that the first pathology appears unilaterally, often in the amygdala. If α-synuclein propagation depends on connection strength, a unilateral focus of pathology will disseminate more to the ipsilateral hemisphere. Thus, α-synuclein spreads mainly to ipsilateral structures including the substantia nigra. The asymmetric distribution of pathology leads to asymmetric dopaminergic degeneration and motor asymmetry. In body-first cases, the α-synuclein pathology ascends via the vagus to both the left and right dorsal motor nuclei of the vagus owing to the overlapping parasympathetic innervation of the gut. Consequently, the initial α-synuclein pathology inside the CNS is more symmetric, which promotes more symmetric propagation in the brainstem, leading to more symmetric dopaminergic degeneration and less motor asymmetry. At diagnosis, body-first patients already have a larger, more symmetric burden of α-synuclein pathology, which in turn promotes faster disease progression and accelerated cognitive decline. The SOC model is supported by a considerable body of existing evidence and may have improved explanatory power.
Real-Word Experience of Cabozantinib in Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma (mRCC): Results from the Canadian Kidney Cancer information system (CKCis)
Authors: Zhang Hanbo , Basappa Naveen S. , Ghosh Sunita , Joy Isaiah , Lalani Aly-Khan A. , Hansen Aaron R. , Heng Daniel Y.C. , Castonguay Vincent , Kollmannsberger Christian K. , Winquist Eric , Wood Lori , Bjarnason Georg A. , Breau Rodney H. , Kapoor Anil , Graham Jeffrey
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND:

Cabozantinib is an oral multitargeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that has demonstrated efficacy in metastatic renal-cell carcinoma (mRCC) randomized trials.

OBJECTIVE:

To explore the real-world effectiveness of cabozantinib in pretreated patients with mRCC, including patients who progressed on immune-oncology checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy.

METHODS:

Using the Canadian Kidney Cancer information system (CKCis), patients with mRCC treated with cabozantinib monotherapy as second-line or later from January 1, 2011 to September 1, 2019 were identified. Patients were stratified based on line of cabozantinib received. We reported overall survival (OS), time to treatment failure (TTF) and disease control rate (DCR). Prognostic variables were analyzed using multivariable analysis.

RESULTS:

157 patients received cabozantinib (median TTF 8.0 months; median OS 15.8 months): 37 (24%) in the second line (median TTF 10.4 months; median OS 18.9 months) 66 (42%) in third line (median TTF 5.9 months; median OS 13.3 months) and 54 (34%) in either 4th or 5th line (median TTF 9.4 months; median OS 16.8 months). One hundred sixteen patients (74%) received cabozantinib after prior ICI therapy (median TTF of 7.6 months; median OS of 15.8 months). DCR in all patients was 63% with 46%, 65% and 72% in 2nd line, 3rd line and 4th/5th line patients respectively. DCR in patients who received cabozantinib after prior ICI therapy was 64%.

CONCLUSIONS:

Cabozantinib is effective in a real-world, unselected population of mRCC patients, including in those who have progressed on prior ICI therapy, and in those exposed to multiple lines of therapy.
Observational/hydrographic data of the South Atlantic Ocean published as LOD
Authors: Zárate Marcos , Braun Germán , Lewis Mirtha , Fillottrani Pablo
Published: March 2021

This article describes the publication of occurrences of Southern Elephant Seals Mirounga leonina (Linnaeus, 1758) as Linked Open Data in two environments (marine and coastal). The data constitutes hydrographic measurements of instrumented animals and observation data collected during censuses between 1990 and 2017. The data scheme is based on the previously developed ontology BiGe-Onto and the new version of the Semantic Sensor Network ontology (SSN). We introduce the network of ontologies used to organize the data and the transformation process to publish the dataset. In the use case, we develop an application to access and analyze the dataset. The linked open dataset and the related visualization tool turned data into a resource that can be located by the international community and thus increase the commitment to its sustainability. The data, coming from Península Valdés (UNESCO World Heritage), is available for interdisciplinary studies of management and conservation of marine and coastal protected areas which demand reliable and updated data.
Clinical usefulness of deep learning-based automated segmentation in intracranial hemorrhage
Authors: Kim Chang Ho , Hahm Myong Hun , Lee Dong Eun , Choe Jae Young , Ahn Jae Yun , Park Sin-Youl , Lee Suk Hee , Kwak Youngseok , Yoon Sang-Youl , Kim Ki-Hong , Kim Myungsoo , Chang Sung Hyun , Son Jeongwoo , Cho Junghwan , Park Ki-Su , Kim Jong Kun
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Doctors with various specializations and experience order brain computed tomography (CT) to rule out intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). Advanced artificial intelligence (AI) can discriminate subtypes of ICH with high accuracy. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical usefulness of AI in ICH detection for doctors across a variety of specialties and backgrounds. METHODS: A total of 5702 patients’ brain CTs were used to develop a cascaded deep-learning-based automated segmentation algorithm (CDLA). A total of 38 doctors were recruited for testing and categorized into nine groups. Diagnostic time and accuracy were evaluated for doctors with and without assistance from the CDLA. RESULTS: The CDLA in the validation set for differential diagnoses among a negative finding and five subtypes of ICH revealed an AUC of 0.966 (95% CI, 0.955–0.977). Specific doctor groups, such as interns, internal medicine, pediatrics, and emergency junior residents, showed significant improvement with assistance from the CDLA (p= 0.029). However, the CDLA did not show a reduction in the mean diagnostic time. CONCLUSIONS: Even though the CDLA may not reduce diagnostic time for ICH detection, unlike our expectation, it can play a role in improving diagnostic accuracy in specific doctor groups.
A novel optimal multi-pattern matching method with wildcards for DNA sequence
Authors: Wang Xinlu , Saif Ahmed A.F. , Liu Dayou , Zhu Yungang , Benediktsson Jon Atli
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: DNA sequence alignment is one of the most fundamental and important operation to identify which gene family may contain this sequence, pattern matching for DNA sequence has been a fundamental issue in biomedical engineering, biotechnology and health informatics. OBJECTIVE: To solve this problem, this study proposes an optimal multi pattern matching with wildcards for DNA sequence. METHODS: This proposed method packs the patterns and a sliding window of texts, and the window slides along the given packed text, matching against stored packed patterns. RESULTS: Three data sets are used to test the performance of the proposed algorithm, and the algorithm was seen to be more efficient than the competitors because its operation is close to machine language. CONCLUSIONS: Theoretical analysis and experimental results both demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms the state-of-the-art methods and is especially effective for the DNA sequence.
Development of an actuation system to apply hydrogen storage alloy for the rehabilitative system
Authors: Shin Mi Yeon , Chong Woo Suk , Yu Chang Ho
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Hydrogen has advantages that can be used as energy, but research on safe use is needed. OBJECTIVE: In this study, an actuation system for rehabilitation is developed to drive the actuator using hydrogen storage alloy and to analyze the hydrogen release characteristics of the alloy. METHODS: The system is automatically control and report the pressure, temperature and hydrogen flow using LabVIEW-based modules and LabVIEW software. Zr0.9Ti0.1Cr0.6Fe1.4 alloy was selected as hydrogen storage alloy. 5 MPa of hydrogen pressure was applied at 8.56 g of alloy powder for activation process and the temperature outside was maintained at 19∘C to 21∘C. The amount of hydrogen absorption was measured about 1.47 wt%. The actuation test was conducted at the temperature from 25∘C to 80∘C, increased by every 5∘C. The actuation height was measured at each load of 5, 10, 15, and 20 kg. The voltage and current which is applied to peltier elements were set to 5.0 V and 2.5 A. The pressure changing in the system was checked for 5 min for each temperature, however, if the temperature at which the pressure inside the system changed, the time to heat the module was increased to 20 min. Hydrogen was first released at 70∘C. RESULTS: The loads of 5 and 10 kg were raised by 87 and 19 mm at 70∘C, respectively. At 75∘C, loads of 5, 10 and 15 kg were raised by 131, 70, and 15 mm, respectively. At 80∘C, 5, 10, 15, and 20 kg were raised by 150, the end of the actuator, 83, 55, and 28 mm, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The actuation system in this paper can be applied to assistive device and rehabilitation system for assisting the movement of daily life of the elderly or people with disability.
Encryption method and security analysis of medical images based on stream cipher enhanced logical mapping
Authors: Liu Shuang , Liu Li , Pang Ming
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Medical image security has been paid more attention in the medical field. OBJECTIVE: In order to achieve a higher security level of medical image encryption, this paper proposes a stream cipher enhanced logic mapping encryption method. METHODS: According to the theory of stream cipher, this method uses Chebyshev map to form encryption key. A series of coding operations are used to set the initial value before image chaos processing. Combining with logical mapping, the original image information is encrypted by chaos from X and Y dimensions. RESULTS: The experimental results show that the NPCR value of the encrypted image is 0.9874 after the blood cells are encrypted. CONCLUSIONS: All four evaluation methods fully prove that this method has excellent encryption performance.
Practical research on orienteering physical education in universities in northeast China
Authors: Li Yantao
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Orienteering, which is one of the popular physical educations in the world, is an emerging sport integrating knowledge, competition, fun, and collaborative attributes. Although it started late in China, it has developed rapidly in recent years in most places except the northeast and northwest parts of the country. METHODS: In order to accelerate the development of orienteering in the northeast, given the climate and social characteristics of this area, we built a four-in-one orienteering development model including a theory course, a social component, a team, and events based on the longtime practice of Harbin Engineering University. RESULTS: The research results have practical reference significance for orienteering at universities in China, as well as at universities and commercial clubs in other areas of the world.
Establishment of a personalized fetal growth curve model
Authors: Bao Xinyu , Wang Yan , Zhang Song , Yang Lin , Liu Guoli , Yang Yimin , Li Xuwen , Hao Dongmei , Chen Aiqing , Liu Xiaohong , Shao Jing
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Fetal weight is one of the important indicators for judging whether fetal growth and development are normal. Fetal weight exceeding the normal range may lead to poor delivery outcomes. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to establish a personalized fetal growth curve in order to effectively monitor fetal growth during pregnancy. Fetal weight can be monitored while fetal growth and development are assessed. METHODS: This study retrospectively analyzed the birth weight and ultrasound database of 3,093 newborns delivered at normal term. The personalized fetal growth curve model was generated based on the birth weight formula established by Gardosi combined with the proportional weight equation. RESULTS: (1) The average birth weight of the single fetus at normal term was 3,457g. (2) According to the regression results of the proportion of fetal weight in full-term pregnancy and gestational week, the proportional weight equation is Weight% = 500.9 - 51.60GA + 1.727GA2- 0.01718GA3 (GA is gestational week), R2 is 98%, P< 0.001. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, the normal birth weight of newborns and normal range of fetal weight can be estimated by using the personalized fetal growth curve model.
Fetal growth prediction: Establishing fetal growth prediction curves in the second trimester
Authors: Wang Yan , Bao Xinyu , Zhang Song , Yang Lin , Liu Guoli , Yang Yimin , Li Xuwen , Hao Dongmei , Chen Aiqing , Liu Xiaohong , Shao Jing
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Monitoring fetal weight during pregnancy has a guiding role in prenatal care. OBJECTIVE: To establish a personalized fetal growth curve for effectively monitoring fetal growth during pregnancy. METHODS: (1) This study retrospectively analyzed the birth weight database of 2,474 singleton newborns delivered normally at term. The personalized fetal growth curve model was formed by combining the estimating birth weight of newborns with the proportional weight formula. (2) Multiple linear stepwise regression method was used to estimate the birth weight of newborns. RESULTS: (1) Delivery gestational age, weight at first visit, maternal height, pre-pregnancy body mass index, fetal sex, parity had significant effects on birth weight. Based on these parameters, the formula for calculating term optimal weight was obtained (R2= 22.8%, P< 0.001). (2) The personalized fetal growth curve was obtained according to the epidemiological factors input model of each pregnant woman. CONCLUSIONS: A model of personalized fetal growth curve can be established, and be used to evaluate fetal growth and development through estimated fetal weight monitoring.
Predicting hypertensive disorders in pregnancy using multiple methods: Models with the placental growth factor parameter
Authors: Sun Ge , Xu Qi , Zhang Song , Yang Lin , Liu Guoli , Meng Yu , Chen Aiqing , Yang Yimin , Li Xuwen , Hao Dongmei , Liu Xiaohong , Shao Jing
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Placental growth factor (PlGF), one of the biomarkers, has a certain predictive effect on hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (HDP). OBJECTIVE: To study the HDP prediction effect of different methods for variable selection and modeling for models containing PlGF. METHODS: For the model containing PlGF, the appropriate range of PlGF parameters needed to be selected. Step-logistic regression and lasso were used to compare the model effect of twice range selection. The PlGF model with good predictive effect and appropriate detecting gestational age was selected for the final prediction. RESULTS: The effect of the model containing PlGF tested at 15–16 weeks was better than the PlGF value without comprehensive screening. The sensitivity of both methods was over 92%. By comprehensive comparison, the final model of lasso method in this study was more effective. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, a variety of methods were used to screen models containing PlGF parameters. According to clinical needs and model effects, the optimal HDP prediction model with PlGF parameters in the second trimester of 15–26 weeks of pregnancy was finally selected.
Notes from the Packaging Laboratory: Hot Tack Measurements of Thin Sealant Films
Authors: Berger Kenneth R. , Knoelke Matthew , Welt Bruce
Published: March 2021

Sample preparation can greatly influence the results of laboratory testing of packaging sealant strength. Factors such as test strip width, edge uniformity, sealing die temperature and die load are recognizable variables to control. A design of experiments approach was used to explore the rank importance of these factors and any interactive effects that may occur. A generally well-behaved ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) sealant on a high density polyethylene (HDPE) film was used for these tests. Experimental results indicate that sample width, die temperature and die pressure are the most influential factors. Unexpectedly, edge effects, namely a regular sine wave pattern and a generally random irregular edge had little influence on hot tack results. This document is ABE340, one of a series of the Agricultural and Biological Engineering Department, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida. First published December 2002. 

https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ae211
Field Corn Production Guide
Authors: Wright David , Marois Jim , Rich Jim , Sprenkel Richard
Published: March 2021

Field corn is important in Florida for both grain and silage. Production has declined over the past two decades because of limited opportunities for profit, increased financial risks with less insurance coverage as compared to cotton and peanut, reduction in infrastructure for handling, and higher production costs. This is document SS-AGR-85, a publication of the Department of Agronomy, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida. Publication Date: January 2004. 

https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ag202
County Property Values and Tax Impacts of Florida's Citrus Industry
Authors: Hodges Alan W. , Mulkey W. David , Muraro Ronald P. , Spreen Thomas H.
Published: March 2021

Events impacting the citrus industry, such as citrus canker or increased foreign competition due to liberalization of trade barriers, may have a dramatic impact on the welfare of local communities. This paper provides estimates of the local fiscal impacts of ad valorem property taxes paid by citrus grove owners, and taxes generated by citrus processing operations. This is EDIS document FE437, a publication of the Department of Food and Resource Economics, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, UF/IFAS, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL. Published November 2003.

FE437/FE437: County Property Values and Tax Impacts of Florida's Citrus Industry (ufl.edu)
Florida Solid and Hazardous Waste Regulation Handbook: Introduction
Authors: Olexa Michael T. , Leviten Aaron , Samek Kelly
Published: March 2021

Current solid and hazardous waste law is a maze of statutes, regulations, and potential liabilities. This handbook is designed to act as your guide and as a first step in helping you recognize which agricultural and household activities may involve solid and hazardous wastes. It also provides an introduction to the agencies and statutes that govern solid and hazardous waste disposal. This is EDIS document FE441, a publication of the Department of Food and Resource Economics, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, UF/IFAS, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL. Published December 2003.

https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fe441
Florida Solid and Hazardous Waste Regulation Handbook: Overview
Authors: Olexa Michael T. , Leviten Aaron , Samek Kelly
Published: March 2021

Federal law regulating the management of solid and hazardous wastes can be found in many different acts of Congress. The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) affects waste management, as does the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) and the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). No single comprehensive federal law for solid and hazardous waste management exists, although RCRA touches on most of the major issues. This is EDIS document FE442, a publication of the Department of Food and Resource Economics, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, UF/IFAS, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL. Published December 2003. 

https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fe442
The Future of Aging is Florida
Authors: Dwyer Jeffrey
Published: March 2021

Currently, Florida ranks first in the United States in the percent of the population who is full-time and seasonal residents over the age of 65. Older Floridians, their families and communities face a myriad of issues related to aging. This document is FCS2209 FY624, one of a series of publications from the distance education in-service "Aging in the 21st Century." First published: September 2003.

FCS2209/FY624: The Future of Aging Is Florida (ufl.edu)
Mosquito Control Devices and Services for Florida Homeowners
Authors: Rutledge-Connelly C. Roxanne
Published: March 2021

There are many devices on the market advertised to control mosquitoes. The advertisements for these devices are aimed at the average homeowner. How do you know if they will work? It is unfortunate that many advertisements take advantage of the concerns we have to protect family members from mosquito-borne disease. This factsheet is provided to assist homeowners in smart decision-making when it comes to protecting the health of you and your family. This document is ENY-692, one of a series of the Entomology & Nematology Department, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida. First published: December 2003.

https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/in171
Oriental Cockroach, Blatta orientalis Linnaeus (Insecta: Blattaria: Blattidae:)
Authors: McCanless Kim
Published: March 2021

The origin of the oriental cockroach, Blatta orientalis Linnaeus, is uncertain, but it is thought to be from Africa or south Russia. It is a major household pest in parts of the northwest, mid-west, and southern United States. It is also sometimes referred to as the "black beetle" or a "water bug" because of its dark black appearance and tendency to harbor in damp locations. This document is EENY-159, one of a series of Featured Creatures from the Entomology and Nematology Department, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida. Published: October 2000. 

EENY159/IN316: Oriental Cockroach, Blatta orientalis Linnaeus (Insecta: Blattodea: Blattidae) (ufl.edu)
Melonworm, Diaphania hyalinata Linnaeus (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)
Authors: Capinera John L.
Published: March 2021

Melonworm, Diaphania hyalinata Linnaeus, occurs throughout most of Central and South America and the Caribbean. The United States is the northern limit of its permanent range, and wintertime occurrence generally is limited to south Florida and perhaps south Texas. Melonworm disperses northward annually. Its distribution during the summer months is principally the southeastern states, though occasionally it disperses north to NewEngland and the Great Lakes region. This document is EENY-163, one of a series of Featured Creatures from the Entomology and Nematology Department, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida. Published: October 2000. 

EENY163/IN320: Melonworm, Diaphania hyalinata Linnaeus (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Crambidae) (ufl.edu)
Classical and Variant Avian Infectious Bronchitis Virus Strains
Authors: Butcher Gary D. , Shapiro David P. , Miles Richard D.
Published: March 2021

Infectious bronchitis (IB) is an acute and highly contagious respiratory disease of chickens. The disease is characterized by respiratory signs including gasping, coughing, sneezing, tracheal râles, and nasal discharge. In young chickens, severe respiratory distress may occur. In layers, respiratory distress, decrease in egg production, and loss of internal egg quality and egg shell quality are reported. Some strains of the virus cause severe kidney damage and may be associated with high mortality. This document is VM127, one of a series of the Veterinary Medicine-Large Animal Clinical Sciences Department, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida. Original publication date May 1, 2002.

VM127/PS039: Infectious Bronchitis Virus: Classical and Variant Strains (ufl.edu)
A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY OF MORPHOMETRIC DATA OF FEMORAL CONDYLES BY DIRECT METHOD TO DETERMINE DIFFERENCE ON RIGHT & LEFT SIDE IN RAJASTHAN REGION
Authors: Singh Jitendra , Chauhan Sangita , Saxena Dhiraj , Vijayvergiya Runjhun
Published: March 2021

Background: There are no published studies on the anthropometry of the distal femur in the Indian population. Hence the results obtained from this study would provide valuable data on the average dimensions of the distal femur which can serve as guidelines for designing a suitable femoral component of total knee prostheses for this population.

Methods: After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria 41 dried femur of each side (total 82) of unknown age and sex will be selected for present study. The maximum anteroposterior distance & maximum transverse distance of lateral femoral condyle, maximum anteroposterior distance & maximum transverse distance of medial femoral condyle width was measured.

Results: In the present study the mean AP diameter of the medial condyle on right side was 54.55±6.88 mm and on left side was 54.36±3.56 mm, The mean Transverse diameter of the medial condyle was 27.33±3.09 mm and 25.03±1.99 mm on right and left side respectively.  In AP diameter parameters no statistically significant difference found between right and left side because p value was >.05 for both parameters. But in Transverse diameter parameters are statistically significant found between right and left side because p value was <.05.  

Conclusion: On comparison between right and left side measurements, no significant difference was found between values of parameters of right and left sided femur. This information will be useful to negate the need of side specific measurements for implant

Keywords: Femur, left, Right