bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ichthyodiversity in southeastern Arabian Peninsula: Annotated checklist, taxonomy, short description and distribution of Inland fishes of Oman
Authors: ESMAEILI HAMID REZA , JUFAILI SAUD AL , MASOUMI AMIR HASSAN , ZAREI FATAH
Published: May 2022

Oman, a country in Southwest Asia, situated on the southeastern quarter of the Arabian Peninsula presents a high level of biological diversity especially marine elements. Although arid habitats cover most parts of Oman (82%), the region has several freshwater systems that are vital for the survival of people as well as for different groups of animals and plants. Research works on Oman biodiversity including terrestrial and marine, have been steadily increasing over the last few decades, but freshwater ecosystems have not been well investigated. Oman comprises parts of three freshwater ecoregions including the Oman Mountains, Southwestern Arabian Coast, and Arabian Interior having xeric freshwaters and endorheic (closed) basins which support a variety of inland fishes. The current checklist provides for each species of inland waters of Oman all recognized and named taxa, documenting recent changes and controversies in nomenclature, its records, taxonomic status, synonyms, etymology, common English name, short description, range expansion, and detailed distribution map based on several field surveys throughout the country. We also provide native, endemic, and introduced species. The diversity of inland fishes of Oman included in this annotated checklist consists of 23 recognized species in 15 genera, 10 families, seven orders, and a class. Also, for the first time, we report and confirm the presence of four species in the inland waters of Oman. The most diverse order is Cypriniformes (nine species, 39.13%), followed by Gobiiformes (six species, 26.09%), Cyprinodontiformes (three species, 13.04%), Cichliformes (two species, 8.69%), and Centrarchiformes, Gonorynchiformes and Mugiliformes (one species, 4.35% each). 21 native species (91.3%) in nine families and two exotic species (8.7%) in two families are listed here. Out of 21 native species, eight species (16.8%) in two families are endemic elements that are restricted to the Oman territory only. Identification of all recognized species was confirmed by DNA barcoding (mitochondrial COI). Oman Mountains Ecoregion (OME), Southwestern Arabian Coast Ecoregion (SACE), and Arabian Interior Ecoregion (AIE) harbor 15, 12, and one species, respectively. The provided data will be necessary for increasing the fish knowledge, the development of competent and pragmatic management plans and effective conservation policies.
Description of the larva of Indocnemis orang (Förster in Laidlaw, 1907) (Odonata: Platycnemididae: Calicnemiinae) from Thailand, with larval key to the known genera of the family Platycnemididae in Asia
Authors: KEETAPITHCHAYAKUL TOSAPHOL SAETUNG , MAKBUN NOPPADON , PHAN QUOC TOAN , DANAISAWADI PATCHARA , WONGKAMHAENG KORAON
Published: May 2022

The larval characters of the genus Indocnemis Laidlaw, 1917 are described based on larval specimens of I. orang (Förster in Laidlaw, 1907) from Thailand. The larvae are characterized by 5–6 pairs of premental setae, 8–9 palpal setae of the same length, and vertical lamella caudal gills. The habitats and new provincial records of I. orang in Thailand are also provided in addition to a key to the genera of the family Platycnemididae in Asia.
Segment Based Compressive Sensing (SBCS) of Color Images for Internet of Multimedia Things Applications
Authors: Lalithambigai B. , Chitra S.
Published: May 2022

Telemedicine is one of the IoMT applications transmitting medical images from hospital to remote medical centers for diagnosis and treatment. To share this multimedia content across internet, storage and transmission become a challenge because of its huge volume. New compression techniques
are being continuously introduced to circumvent this issue. Compressive sensing (CS) is a new paradigm in signal compression. Block based compressive sensing (BCS) is a standard and commonly used technique in color image compression. However, BCS suffers from block artifacts and during transmission,
mistakes can be introduced to affect the BCS coefficients, degrading the reconstructed image’s quality. The performance of BCS at low compression ratios is also poor. To overcome these limitations, without dividing the image into blocks, the image matrix is considered as a whole and
compressively sensed by segment based compressive sensing (SBCS). This is a novel strategy that is offered in this article, for efficient compression of digital color images at low compression ratios. Metrics of performance The peak signal to noise ratio (PSNR), the mean structural similarity
index (MSSIM), and the colour perception metric delta E are computed and compared to those obtained using block-based compressive sensing (BBCS). The results show that SBCS performs better than BBCS.
Melanoma Skin Cancer Detection Using Wavelet Transform and Local Ternary Pattern
Authors: Ragumadhavan R. , Aravind Britto K. R. , Vimala R.
Published: May 2022

Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer that affects millions of people globally. Through image analytics, early identification of skin cancer is enabled, resulting in more effective treatment and a lower mortality rate. The ph2 and human against machine datasets were used
to collect images. After preprocessing the image with a weighted median filter, segmentation is investigated using a number of common techniques, with the best result generated by combining watershed transform and maximum similarity region merging. U-net architecture is explored for segmentation.
Segmentation efficiency is calculated by dice loss and Jaccard coefficient. Segmentation architecture outperform the conventional method. Additionally, a novel wavelet transform-based approach is used to extract features, followed by local ternary pattern analysis. The intersection of the
histograms, the Bhattacharya distance, the Chi-square distance, and the Pearson correlation coefficients are all computed. This inquiry makes use of only the Histogram intersection and Chi-square distance characteristics. Additional categorization is examined through the use of a range of
machine learning algorithms, including the k-nearest neighbour approach, Bayesian classification, decision trees, and Support Vector Machines (SVM). When a Radial Basis Function (RBF) kernel based SVM is applied, the classification accuracy is maximised. This work is entirely devoted to binary
categorization. As evidenced by the data, they outperform other state-of-the-art approaches reported in the literature. SVM classifies data with an accuracy of 98.6 percent. Weighted median filter, Watershed transform, Merging regions with the highest degree of similarity, Wavelet transform,
Local Ternary Pattern, Histogram intersection Pearson correlation coefficient, chi-square distance Distance between Bhattacharya and support vector machine.
A Novel Method for Cataract Detection and Segmentation Using Nakagami Distribution
Authors: Rathnam Martin Joel , Jobin Christ M. C.
Published: May 2022

Early detection of cataract is considered as an important solution to prevent vision loss. An automatic detection of cataract is proposed in this work with the help of histogram approach. In the beginning, noises occur in an image which is also referred to as impulse noise. To eliminate
this noise a non-linear type of median filter is matched especially for the morphological filter. These filtering methods help to extract the content of the image by edge detection and segmentation. The quality of the image is evaluated the image enhancing can be obtained by a histogram approach.
A normalization method can be used to enhance the image which is also called Contrast stretching. To make morphological functions effective a top-hat filter is used to segment the cataract part in the given image. Nakagami distributions are usually used for extracting required important information
of ultrasound details by matching histograms from the radio frequency signals. The extracted information from the Nakagami distribution is obtained by parameter values. The recent techniques used to improve the given image quality in histogram modification method are done by Intentional Camera
Movement (ICM) and Unintentional Camera Movement (UCM) to recognize the real image more precisely. In the proposed method the result shows the noise reduction and a better contrast in the output image through parameters values such as Mean Squared Error (MSE) obtained as 17.23 and Peak-Signal-to-Noise
Ratio (PSNR) obtained as 35.8.
Using Anger Management Virtual Reality Cognitive Behavior Therapy to Treat Violent Offenders with Alcohol Dependence in South Korea: A Preliminary Investigation
Authors: Ryu Chang Hyun
Published: May 2022

Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) effectively treats impulse/anger attacks and aggressive-impulsive behaviors, frequently conducted concerning domestic violence, among patients with alcohol dependence. CBT combined with virtual reality (VR) is a new and beneficial psychotherapeutic intervention
for patients and violent offenders with impulse-anger control problems and alcohol dependence. This clinical study evaluated the effects of the “anger management virtual reality cognitive behavior therapy (AM-VR-CBT)” and motivational interviewing (MI) intervention program on quantitative
electroencephalography (QEEG) mapping patterns among violent offenders with alcohol dependence (N = 29) in the National Probation Service. A clinical sample of twenty-nine violent offenders with alcohol dependence, who were evaluated and diagnosed with destructive and impulse-control
disorders (DICD), underwent AM-VR-CBT combined with MI. The sessions lasted 150 minutes (AM-VR-CBT: 90 min; MI: 60 min) and were conducted twice a week for three weeks (six sessions). The intervention outcomes were measured using advanced QEEG brain mapping and standardized neurocognitive,
emotional, and behavioral inventories, including the Alcohol Dependence Scale (ADS), the Obsessive Compulsive Drinking Scale (OCDS), the Readiness to Change Questionnaire (RTCQ), the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale-II (BIS-II), the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), the Beck Depression Inventory-Second
Edition (BDI-2), and the State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory-2 (STAXI-2), to identify neuro-psycho-physiological changes in violent offenders with alcohol dependence. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used at p < 0.05. The intervention showed significant improvements and healthy
behavioral changes related to obsessive drinking thoughts, compulsive drinking behaviors, attentional control, intrinsic motivation, worry, anxiety, depression, impulse-anger control issues, aggressive behaviors, over-control, interpersonal relationships, self-efficacy, self-reflection, self-inhibition,
creativity, mental navigation/imagery, and episodic memory retrieval among violent offenders with alcohol dependence. Therefore, the results demonstrate the efficacy of the novel and promising clinical evidence-based implementation of the AM-VR-CBT + MI program intervention for non-invasive
neuromodulation and related neuro-psycho-physiological, neurocognitive, emotional, and behavioral changes among violent offenders demonstrating alcohol dependence, impulse-anger control, and aggressive behaviors.
A Novel Modified Adaptive Controller Design for Non Negative DC–DC Converter Using Meta-Heuristic Algorithms for Bio Medical Hybrid Application
Authors: Balasingh Moses M. , Rajarajacholan S.
Published: May 2022

Purpose: Meta-heuristic (MH) methods are used to develop an adaptive sliding mode controller for a POEL converter. MH algorithms have been used to address a variety of engineering optimization problems. Which will use for Bio medical hybrid systems applications. Design/Methodology:
Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) approach is well known and it could expedite the convergence characteristic in numerous applications. By means of amending PSO parameters like, inertia mass, social and perceptive agents at every generation, Modern Parameter Improved Particle Swarm Optimization
(MPIPSO) algorithm which is a more enhanced version of PSO is developed. Findings: Since the converter output voltage’s integral squared error (ISE) has been chosen as a neutral function, the optimal PI controller design may be expressed in terms of optimization problems. Originality/Value:
The superiority of the proposed MPIPSO based sliding mode controller has been shown by comparing the results with other existing MH optimization methodologies.
Validation and intercomparison of satellite-based rainfall products over Africa with TAHMO in-situ rainfall observations
Authors: Macharia Denis , Fankhauser Katie , Selker John S. , Neff Jason C. , Thomas Evan A.
Published: May 2022

Increasingly, satellite-derived rainfall data is used for climate research and action in Africa. In this study, we use six years of rain gauge data from 596 stations operated by the Trans-African Hydro-Meteorological Observatory (TAHMO) to validate three gauge-calibrated satellite rainfall products – CHIRPS, TAMSAT and GSMaP_wGauge – and one satellite-only rainfall product – GSMaP. Validations are stratified to evaluate performance across the continent and in East Africa, Southern Africa, and West Africa at daily, pentadal, and monthly timescales. For daily mean rainfall over Africa, CHIRPS has the highest bias at 15.5 % (0.5 mm) whereas GSMaP_wGauge has the lowest bias at 0.02 mm (0.7 %). We find higher daily rainfall event detection scores in the GSMaP products than in CHIRPS or TAMSAT. Generally, for every two rainfall events predicted by CHIRPS and TAMSAT, the GSMaP products predict three or more events. The highest mean monthly biases are produced by CHIRPS in East Africa (29 %; 26.3 mm wet bias), TAMSAT in Southern Africa (13 %; 10.4 mm dry bias) and GSMaP in West Africa (23 %; 19.6 mm wet bias). Considerable biases in seasonal rainfall are observed in all sub-regions for every satellite product. There is an increase of 0.6–1.3 mm in satellite rainfall RMSE for a 1 km increase in elevation revealing the influence of elevation on rainfall estimation by satellite models. Overall, satellite-derived rainfall products have notable errors, while GSMaP products produce comparable or better results at multiple timescales relative to CHIRPS and TAMSAT.
Challenges of Mothering in Extended Families: The Case of Palestinian Women in Israel
Authors: Zreik Ghadir , Golden Deborah , Oppenheim David
Published: May 2022

Historical and cross-cultural records show that childrearing is generally situated within a community of significant others, particularly kin. These others not only shape children’s behavior, but also shape that of mothers. The purpose of this paper is to explore this phenomenon from the point of view of Palestinian mothers in Israel. This is an instructive case study because the Arab society in Israel is undergoing fundamental changes, many of which shape—and are shaped by—changes in women’s lives, including shifts in perceptions and practices of mothering. Based on short, semi-structured interviews with 51 Palestinian mothers, the paper explores the challenges of mothering in the context of the extended family, with a focus on intergenerational relations. The interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis, supported by descriptive statistics. Findings revealed experiences of persistent “interference” in their mothering on the part of the older generation, exacerbated in circumstances of close residential proximity. These experiences did not lead to open conflict but rather served to bolster the women’s resolve to carve out their own ways of mothering.
Computerized agents versus human agents in finding core coalition in glove games
Authors: Grigoryan Gayane , Etemadidavan Sheida , Collins Andrew J
Published: May 2022

One of the challenges for agent-based modeling is being able to incorporate human behavior. Human behavior is a multifaceted phenomenon, with strategic coalition formation being one form. A hybrid agent-based modeling approach, called ABMSCORE, has been derived to emulate strategic group formation. In this paper, we describe a simulation experiment to compare the ABMSCORE with actual human behavior. The comparison criterion is the respective rates of finding an ideal coalition. In our experimental design, we go to great lengths to ensure the similarity of the scenarios in the two trial types: trials with computerized agents only and trials involving human participants when one of the computerized agents is replaced by an actual human. We did this to limit the number of possible extraneous variables introduced into the experimental system. The scenario considered is the glove game, a standard cooperative game that has been previously used in human experiments. Our results indicate that the ABMSCORE model produces similar rates of finding the ideal coalition as the human players; however, there are some limitations. This research provides evidence for using the ABMSCORE modeling approach to model human strategic coalition formation in agent-based models.
An improved control strategy using TCSC with grey wolf-optimized DSTATCOM for efficient LVRT of DFIG-based WECS
Authors: Kumar Ashwani , Mishra Vishnu Mohan , Ranjan Rakesh
Published: May 2022

Doubly fed induction generator (DFIG)-based wind energy conversion systems (WECSs) are widely used for its advantage over other schemes, as it enables the connection to the grid even during faults and provides reactive power compensation. However, transient stability of DFIG and low voltage ride through (LVRT) remained an area of improvement. In this paper, a hybrid approach is proposed to improve the efficiency of the DFIG WECS using grey wolf-optimized distribution static compensator (DSTATCOM) with thyristor-controlled series capacitor (TCSC). Extensive simulation analysis was performed considering design parameters as an objective function. The optimal values of proportional–integral (PI) coefficients were found to minimize the objective function. Using MATLAB, time-domain simulations were carried to confirm the efficiency of the optimized control system. Simulation results further confirm that the combination of TCSC and DSTATCOM may be considered as a promising scheme to enhance fault ride through (FRT) capability of WECS during the normal and unstable conditions.
A soft-sensing method for product quality monitoring based on particle swarm optimization deep belief networks
Authors: Li Qi , Yang Menghan , Lu Zhengyin , Zhang Yu , Ba Wei
Published: May 2022

A novel soft-sensing method for quality parameters of aviation kerosene in atmospheric distillation column based on least absolute shrinkage and selection operator and particle swarm optimization deep belief network (LASSO-PSO-DBN) is proposed. First, to reduce the dimension of the input variables, the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm is used to select the input variables that are irrelevant to the soft sensor of aviation kerosene quality parameters. Then, to improve the generalization of soft sensor model, a deep learning algorithm, deep belief network (DBN), is proposed for soft sensing of aviation kerosene quality parameters. Considering that the structure characteristics and parameters of DBN algorithm have a great impact on the learning and prediction results, the parameters of DBN are optimized based on particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. The benchmark data sets and the industrial atmospheric distillation column data are used for simulation analysis and evaluation of the soft-sensing performance. The simulation results show that the novel proposed algorithm can effectively reduce the dimension of the input variables and simplify the structure of the soft sensor model. It also has good generalization ability and the predicted value is in good agreement with the actual measured value.
Adaptive command-filtered finite-time control of non-strict feedback stochastic non-linear systems
Authors: Seifi Parisa , Hosseini Sani Seyed Kamal
Published: May 2022

In this paper, an adaptive neural network (NN) finite-time command filter controller for a class of non-strict feedback stochastic non-linear systems has been investigated. Using error compensation signals and NNs, a command filter controller is presented which guarantees that all the signals of the closed-loop system are practical finite-time stable and the output signal tracks the given reference signal under the bounded error. In the design procedure, NNs are employed to approximate unknown non-linear functions, which contain all the state variables of the whole system, in order to avoid excessive and burdensome computations and ensure that the backstepping method works normally for non-strict feedback systems. Meanwhile, the “explosion of complexity” problem caused by the backstepping method is avoided using the command filter approach. The control scheme not only resolves the “explosion of complexity” problem but also eliminates the filtering error in finite-time. Finally, the simulation results are given to prove the effectiveness of the proposed control method.
Daily stress and relationship quality: A two-decade scoping review from an intersectional lens
Authors: Totenhagen Casey J. , Randall Ashley K. , Bar-Kalifa Eran , Ciftci Oyku , Gleason Marci
Published: May 2022

Within relationship research, a great deal of attention is given to emphasizing the interpersonal context related to daily stress and its association with relationship well-being. However, apart from the interpersonal context in which stress may occur, one must consider individual, sociocultural, and systemic factors associated with these daily experiences. Taking an intersectional focus, this systematic review aimed to critically examine the extant research on daily stress and romantic relationship quality from the past two decades, answering three guiding questions: (RQ1) From whose vantage point has the research been conducted? (RQ2) What types of questions have been valued? (RQ3) Whose voices have been included (and excluded)? Using a scoping review methodology, we identified 23 articles meeting inclusion criteria (empirical studies that used daily methodologies, focused on romantic relationships, and examined associations between stress or stressors and relationship quality). Findings revealed most of this research was conducted by researchers in Psychology and Family Studies (or related disciplines) working in the U.S. (RQ1). Studies were quantitative and largely dyadic, often adopting theoretical perspectives without particular theorizing on context and identity (RQ2). Samples were predominantly White, U.S.-based, and comprised of different-sex couples (RQ3). In addition, studies typically did not report (or excluded from analyses) demographics related to cisnormativity/cissexism, heteronormativity/heterosexism, ableism, and placeism/Western industrialized rich democratic samples. Finally, even though studies often included participants from different age groups, races, and social classes, minority and underserved identities were under-represented. We conclude with specific recommendations for future research aimed to remedy these limitations to advance further the decolonization of the research on daily stress and relationship quality.
When History and Heterogeneity Matter: A Tutorial on the Impact of Markov Model Specifications in the Context of Colorectal Cancer Screening
Authors: Townsley Rachel M. , Koutouan Priscille R. , Mayorga Maria E. , Mills Sarah D. , Davis Melinda M. , Hasmiller Lich Kristen
Published: May 2022

Background

Markov models are used in health research to simulate health care utilization and disease states over time. Health phenomena, however, are complex, and the memoryless assumption of Markov models may not appropriately represent reality. This tutorial provides guidance on the use of Markov models of different orders and stratification levels in health decision-analytic modeling. Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening is used as a case example to examine the impact of using different Markov modeling approaches on CRC outcomes.

Methods

This study used insurance claims data from commercially insured individuals in Oregon to estimate transition probabilities between CRC screening states (no screen, colonoscopy, fecal immunochemical test or fecal occult blood test). First-order, first-order stratified by sex and geography, and third-order Markov models were compared. Screening trajectories produced from the different Markov models were incorporated into a microsimulation model that simulated the natural history of CRC disease progression. Simulation outcomes (e.g., future screening choices, CRC incidence, deaths due to CRC) were compared across models.

Results

Simulated CRC screening trajectories and resulting CRC outcomes varied depending on the Markov modeling approach used. For example, when using the first-order, first-order stratified, and third-order Markov models, 30%, 31%, and 44% of individuals used colonoscopy as their only screening modality, respectively. Screening trajectories based on the third-order Markov model predicted that a higher percentage of individuals were up-to-date with CRC screening as compared with the other Markov models.

Limitations

The study was limited to insurance claims data spanning 5 y. It was not possible to validate which Markov model better predicts long-term screening behavior and outcomes.

Conclusions

Findings demonstrate the impact that different order and stratification assumptions can have in decision-analytic models.

Highlights

This tutorial uses colorectal cancer screening as a case example to provide guidance on the use of Markov models of different orders and stratification levels in health decision-analytic models. Colorectal cancer screening trajectories and projected health outcomes were sensitive to the use of alternate Markov model specifications. Although data limitations precluded the assessment of model accuracy beyond a 5-y period, within the 5-y period, the third-order Markov model was slightly more accurate in predicting the fifth colorectal cancer screening action than the first-order Markov model. Findings from this tutorial demonstrate the importance of examining the memoryless assumption of the first-order Markov model when simulating health care utilization over time.
Depressive Symptoms Partially Mediate the Association of Frailty Phenotype Symptoms and Cognition for Females but Not Males
Authors: Resciniti Nicholas V. , Farina Mateo P. , Merchant Anwar T. , Lohman Matthew C.
Published: May 2022

Objectives

We aimed to evaluate whether depressive symptoms mediated the relationship between frailty phenotype and cognitive function by sex.

Methods

Data came from the Health and Retirement Study from 2012–2016. The outcome was measured by Fried’s frailty criteria, our outcome was continuous global cognition, and mediator was depressive symptoms. We used mediation analysis, stratified by sex, to estimate the direct and indirect effects of frailty symptoms on cognition mediated by depressive symptoms.

Results

Males had a larger total effect (β= −0.43; 95% CI: −0.66, −0.02) for lower cognitive score for each increase in frailty symptom compared to females (β= −0.28; 95% CI: −0.47, −0.08). A significant indirect effect from frailty phenotype to cognition was found through depressive symptoms for females but not males.

Conclusion

These results highlight the importance of identifying individuals with frailty and depressive symptoms to monitor and provide interventions to preserve cognitive function.
Ethnonationalism and the changing pattern of ethnic Kazakhs’ emigration from China to Kazakhstan
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Tsakhirmaa Sansar
Published: May 2022

Amid the post-Cold War global revival of ethnonationalism, Kazakhstan – a newly independent state born out of the collapse of the Soviet Union – launched its ‘ethnic repatriation programme’, encouraging ethnic Kazakhs from outside Kazakhstan to ‘return home’. China has a large ethnic Kazakh population and shares a border of more than 1500 km with Kazakhstan in Xinjiang. Since the 1990s, over 150,000 ethnic Kazakhs originally from China have chosen to emigrate to Kazakhstan. Sketching China’s and Kazakhstan’s state policies toward ethnic Kazakh migration since the 1990s, this article addresses how different factors and rationales have shaped individuals’ decisions to emigrate to Kazakhstan or to stay in China. The article relies upon available, multilingual data and over 30 in-depth interviews with respondents in both Kazakhstan and China. We argue that, for ethnic Kazakhs emigrating from China to Kazakhstan, socio-economically and environmentally based rationales, including perceptions of developmental prospects, social welfare benefits and social ties were most salient during the 2000s. However, since the late 2000s, politico-culturally based rationales, such as ethno-nationalism, Kazakh linguistic and cultural concerns, educational opportunities, and other factors have become increasingly salient especially during the 2010s.
A study on the effectiveness of explosive reactive armour against the penetration of long-rod projectiles
Authors: Yeap Samuel , Baxevanakis Konstantinos P , Roy Anish
Published: May 2022

The effect of explosive reactive armour (ERA) on the penetration of a long-rod projectile is investigated using computational techniques. This area of research is especially relevant to main battle tanks as a large portion of them utilise ERA which is effective against both kinetic and chemical munitions. The ERA package consists of steel flyer plates sandwiched between an explosive layer that detonates on projectile impact. The influence of the stand-off distance and detonation delay and variation of the angle of impact is assessed to determine the overall effectiveness of the ERA package. The analysis presented in this study allows for a better understanding of impact dynamics and can be used in the development and optimisation of ERA as well as projectiles designed to defeat it.
Vibration control of three coupled flexible beams using reinforcement learning algorithm based on proximal policy optimization
Authors: Qiu Zhi-cheng , Du Jia-hao , Zhang Xian-min
Published: May 2022

In order to suppress the vibration of a class of multi-coupling flexible beams, a three-coupling flexible beam experimental device is constructed. The vibration characteristics and active vibration control algorithms of three coupled flexible beams are studied. Due to the complex residual vibration of multi-coupled flexible beam structure, which shows the interaction between beams and close frequency characteristics, the dynamic model of coupled flexible beam structure is established by finite element method (FEM) and its theoretical modal analysis is carried out. Furthermore, the parameters of the experimental system are identified, and the close modal frequencies and damping ratios of the actual system are obtained. The characteristics of close modal vibration are verified. A reinforcement learning (RL) vibration controller based on proximal policy optimization (PPO) algorithm is designed. The algorithm mainly includes actor neural network and critic neural network, which are used to approximate the control strategy and evaluate state respectively. Based on theoretical modeling and experimental identification correction model, the agent learns offline, and then transfers the learned policy parameters to the experimental system for vibration control experiments. The experimental results demonstrate that the designed RL controller can effectively suppress the residual vibration of three coupled flexible beams.
Association Between Monocyte Count and Preoperative Deep Venous Thrombosis in Older Patients with hip Fracture: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Wang Zhicong , Zhou Qing , Liu Hailong , Zhang Jianjun , Zhu Zhonglun , Wu Jijun , Chen Xue , Liu Yuehong
Published: May 2022

Purpose

To analyze the relationship between monocyte count and preoperative deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in older patients with hip fracture.

Methods

Consecutive older patients with hip fracture undergoing surgery were included from January 2014 to December 2021. Monocyte count was measured on admission, and Doppler ultrasonography was performed for DVT screening prior to surgery. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to assess the association between monocyte count and DVT.

Results

A total of 674 patients were finally included, and 128 patients (19.0%) were diagnosed with preoperative DVT. Patients with DVT exhibited a higher monocyte count than patients without DVT [0.55 (0.43-0.72) × 109/L versus 0.49 (0.38-0.63) × 109/L, P = 0.007]. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that a high monocyte count (> 0.6 × 109/L) was independently associated with a higher risk of DVT (OR = 1.705, 95% CI: 1.121-2.593, P = 0.013), and for every 0.1 × 109/L increase in monocyte count, the risk of DVT increased by 8.5% (OR = 1.085, 95% CI: 1.003-1.174, P = 0.041). Other risk factors associated with DVT included intertrochanteric fracture (OR = 1.596, 95% CI: 1.022-2.492, P = 0.040), and elevated fibrinogen level (OR = 1.236, 95% CI: 1.029-1.484, P = 0.023).

Conclusion

A high monocyte count is associated with an increased risk of DVT in older patients with hip fracture. Future studies should evaluate the potential role of monocyte in the prevention and treatment of thrombosis.
Enhanced suppression of longitudinal vibration transmission in propulsion shaft system using nonlinear tuned mass damper inerter
Authors: Dai Wei , Shi Baiyang , Yang Jian , Zhu Xiang , Li Tianyun
Published: May 2022

This study proposes the use of a novel nonlinear tuned mass damper inerter device in vibration suppression of the ship propulsion shafting system and evaluates its performance. The device consists of an axial inerter and a pair of lateral inerters to create geometric nonlinearity. The system response subjected to propeller forces is determined by using the harmonic balance method with alternating-frequency-time technique and a numerical time-marching method. The force transmissibility and energy flow variables are employed to assess the performance of the device. The results show that the proposed device can reduce the peak force and energy transmission to the foundation while increase the energy dissipation within the device. Its use can lead to an improved vibration attenuation effect than the traditional mass-spring-damper device for low-frequency vibration. The configurations of the nonlinear inerter-based device can be adjusted to obtain an anti-peak at a resonance frequency of the original system, providing superior vibration suppression performance.
Barcodes as Optical Marks for an Objective Assessment of Laparoscopic Skills in a Box Trainer
Authors: Dokhov Oleg , Bogdanovich Viktor
Published: May 2022

Background/Need. The sensor-equipped box trainers can objectively evaluate psychomotor skills similar to virtual simulators. However, such box models are least of all involved in curricula in minimally invasive surgery, probably because of their complexity or high cost. This discrepancy prompted us to find a simple solution that provides an objective assessment of laparoscopic skills on any box trainer. Methodology and Device Description. We used QR code, Code 128, and Circular Code 128 as optical marks in tasks on box trainers. These were marks of errors and positive actions. Polyvinylchloride and a nontransparent silicone sheet served as materials for the tasks. All barcode images were printed with black ink on office paper. In addition, we have developed an app that allows dealing with selected types of barcodes. Preliminary results. We designed 6 tasks based on our approach. Every task provides a precision registration of time, errors, and correct actions, comparable with virtual simulators. However, only 4 tasks showed satisfactory results during face validity’s obtaining. We found that primitive barcode scanning technology can provide an objective assessment of trainees on box trainers. The proposed approach is well suited for both commercial and custom box trainers. Current status. The research is currently underway to establish construct validity for the developed tasks. Besides, we intend to study features of other types of barcodes, such as Aztec Code, EAN-8, DataMatrix, and annular barcodes.
Reflections of Adult Children of Mothers with Intellectual Disability
Authors: Bachrach Tammy
Published: May 2022

This multiple case study explores the phenomena of being raised by parents with intellectual disabilities from the adult child’s perspective. Autoethnographic data was collected from the author and 4 non-disabled adults who were raised by mothers who had intellectual disabilities. The significance of the parent’s disability, parent/child relationship and the social factors that either hindered or facilitated the family are discussed. This study found that the majority of the families were at risk of losing custody of their children and that extended family or support services protected the family unit and provided valuable support to the children. It was common for the participants to have additional responsibilities growing up. All of the adult children achieved typical adult outcomes. The adult children interviewed typically did not define their maternal relationships in terms of disability or limitations and all maintained a strong relationship with their mothers.
Sirolimus as a promising drug therapy for blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome: Two-case report
Authors: Ma Jian-Xun , Xia You-Chen , Zou Li-Ping , Lin Heng-Ju , Chang Xu , Liu Li-Ying , Toledo Joy Roechelle A.
Published: May 2022

Blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome is a very rare systemic vascular malformation frequently affecting the skin and the gastrointestinal tract. The pathogenesis of the disease is still unclear, and the standard treatment does not exist. This study reports two blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome cases, of which the second patient received the TEK gene mutations detection and got a low-dose sirolimus therapy, compared with the first patient who was not treated with sirolimus. The report shows some positive findings of TEK gene mutations and the efficacy of sirolimus treatment. We postulate that the TEK gene mutations play an important role in the pathogenesis. The mutations of different locations of the TEK gene cause a wide range of activating TIE2 mutations, which could stimulate the mammalian target of rapamycin signaling pathways to mediate angiogenesis, resulting in different clinical phenotypes of cutaneomucosal venous malformations. Sirolimus could effectively block the upstream and downstream factors of mammalian target of rapamycin signaling pathways to achieve the antiangiogenic effect. The initial dose of sirolimus can be 0.05–0.1 mg/kg/d for a trough level of 5–15 μg/L in the treatment of blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome. However, a lower-dose sirolimus is also effective while minimizing the side effects.
Exploring the feasibility and acceptability of a sleep wearable headband among a community sample of chronic pain individuals: An at-home observational study
Authors: Zambelli Zoe , Jakobsson Cecilia E. , Threadgold Laura , Fidalgo Antonio R. , Halstead Elizabeth J. , Dimitriou Dagmara
Published: May 2022

Background

Chronic pain conditions affect up to one third of the adult population in the United Kingdom. Sleep problems are prevalent and negatively impact quality of life. Lack of standardised tools for routine screening and assessment of sleep changes have been a barrier for sleep management. Novel sleep wearables offer an exciting and accessible way to measure sleep but have not been tested outside of the consumer-led landscape and are not commonly used in research and clinical settings.

Aims

The study aimed to explore the feasibility and acceptability of a sleep monitoring headband (Dreem 2) utilising EEG technology and accompanying smartphone application among a cohort of adults with chronic pain.

Results

Twenty-one adults (81% women) completed a one-week home sleep study using a sleep headband and accompanying app. Ninety per cent of participants met the pre-defined requirement of two-night's sleep recording. All participants recorded one night of sleep data via the sleep headband. The majority (76%) of participants were satisfied with the sleep study, and 86% of participants were willing to wear the headband longer than the 2-night minimum requirement. Finally, 76% reported the headband as ‘somewhat’ or ‘extremely’ comfortable whist awake; 57% rated the headband as comfortable during sleep.

Conclusion

The Dreem 2 headband appears to be a feasible and acceptable means of collecting sleep measurements among individuals with chronic pain, despite common sleep disturbances. These devices may have utility for screening, assessment and monitoring in research and practice. Further research is needed to provide guidelines and training for integration.
The bias blind spot among HR employees in hiring decisions
Authors: Thomas Oliver , Reimann Olivier
Published: May 2022

Research on human resources (HR) indicates that many biases (e.g., halo effect, confirmation bias, stereotyping bias) affect decisions taken by HR employees. However, it remains unclear whether HR employees are aware of their susceptibility to bias. To improve understanding, this study examines the “bias blind spot” phenomenon, the tendency of individuals to believe they are less likely to be biased than their peers. This quantitative survey among 234 HR employees in Switzerland measured the bias blind spot on seven interview biases in recruitment decision-making. The study shows that participants rated the average HR colleague as more susceptible to bias than themselves. Furthermore, male HR employees partly showed a greater bias blind spot than female HR employees. These findings contribute to behavioral research in HR and offer practical insights.
Twelve-month safety, tolerability and susceptibility to adverse events of prophylactic migraine therapy with erenumab: a retrospective real-world study
Authors: Schenk Hannah , Holle Dagny , Nsaka Michael , Kleinschnitz Christoph , Glas Martin , Scheffler Armin
Published: May 2022

Background

Erenumab is a monoclonal antibody (mAb) against the calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) receptor and is commonly used in migraine prophylaxis. Pivotal and open-label studies show a good safety and tolerability. However, little is known about possible predictors, dose dependence and time course of development of adverse events (AEs) during the treatment under real-world conditions.

Methods

Clinical routine data of 128 patients with migraine treated in the West German Headache Center Essen were analyzed regarding AEs during a treatment interval of up to 12 months (3mo n = 128, 6mo n = 105, 9mo n = 74, 12mo n = 54). Patients obtained subcutaneous erenumab injections with either 70 mg or 140 mg per month. The occurrence and alterations of AEs were evaluated. All reported AEs, regardless of their severity, were included. AEs were graded using the common terminology criteria for adverse events (CTCAE). Possible parameters that could influence the occurrence of AEs (sex, episodic or chronic migraine, medication overuse headache, aura and the dosage of erenumab) were analyzed using the Chi-squared test, alpha adjustment was done using the Bonferroni’s correction (6 tests, adjusted alpha = 0.0083).

Results

The proportion of patients who reported at least one AE were stable over the course of 12 months (after 3mo = 37%, 6mo = 36%, 9mo = 32%, 12mo = 35%). All reported AEs were grade 1 according to CTCAE with one exception (grade 2). Throughout the interval, five AEs were mostly reported: constipation, skin reactions, fatigue, sleep disturbances and nausea/emesis. Discontinuation of erenumab therapy was rarely caused by AEs (5/49). Increasing the dosage from 70 mg to 140 mg per month caused no higher frequency of AEs (Chi-squared test, p = 0.57). Significant more AEs were reported by females and by patients with aura (Chi-squared test, p < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion

In general, erenumab is well tolerated up to a treatment interval of 12 months and reported AEs rarely lead to discontinuation of therapy. A higher dosage does not increase the patient reported AEs. Furthermore, no habituation of AEs is observed. Nevertheless, females and patients with aura seem to be more prone to have AEs.

Trial registration

No registration, retrospective analysis.
Is waist-to-height ratio the best predictive indicator of cardiovascular disease incidence in hypertensive adults? A cohort study
Authors: Zhang Shu , Fu Xin , Du Zhi , Guo Xiaofan , Li Zhao , Sun Guozhe , Zhou Ying , Yang Hongmei , Yu Shasha , Zheng Liqiang , Sun Yingxian , Zhang Xingang
Published: May 2022

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) brings high mortality and economic burden to patients, especially in rural areas. Simple, low-cost abdominal adiposity measures may help identify individuals with increased CVD risk. It is unclear that which obesity indices is the best to predict CVD in hypertensive people.

Methods

Northeast China Rural Cardiovascular Health Study (NCRCHS) is a prospective cohort study in a general population in Northeast China. The study examined the cardiovascular health from 2013 to 2015, and follow-up captured the CVD incidence in 2018. Baseline waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip (WHR)and body mass index (BMI) were calculated and analyzed in relation to the CVD incidence.

Results

A total of 4244 hypertensive adults without pre-existing CVD at baseline were included in this analysis (age 35–92 years; 2108 men). Over a median follow-up of 4.66 years, a total of 290 CVD cases (6.83%) were documented during the follow-up. Baseline WHtR showed a significant positive association with CVD incidence, even after adjusting for age, sex, diabetes, drinking, smoking, SBP, DBP, Triglyceride, HDL-C, LDL-C, and TC (Hazard Ratios per SD of WHtR ranging from 1.03 to 1.31, p = 0.017). Reclassification and discrimination analyses indicated WHtR addition could improve the conventional model for predicting adverse outcomes within 4 years. Moreover, WHtR predicted the CVD incidence better than other obesity indices (BMI, WC, WHR).

Conclusion

These findings support a positive association between WHtR and CVD incidence in CVD-free hypertensive adults. WHtR can be used to predict CVD incidence in hypertensive adults.