bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatiotemporal Video Highlight by Neural Network Considering Gaze and Hands of Surgeon in Egocentric Surgical Videos
Authors: Yoshida Keitaro , Hachiuma Ryo , Tomita Hisako , Pan Jingjing , Kitani Kris , Kajita Hiroki , Hayashida Tetsu , Sugimoto Maki
Published: October 2021

In the medical field, surgical videos can be used to introduce surgical skills. Medical students and residents watch the videos to study the surgical skills and increase learning speed by compensating for the lack of experience in surgical rooms due to limited opportunity to join in surgery. To record egocentric surgical videos by a wearable camera is a solution to record surgical skills of a surgeon in detail. However, most egocentric surgical videos are of quite long duration. For example, in the case of tumor removal in breast surgery, a video recording time often reaches 2[Formula: see text]h. With that length, it is time consuming to see important scenes in the video, particularly because many surgical videos include nonessential scenes such as sterilization and preparation of tools. For extracting specific scenes from a long video, we can apply scene estimation by machine learning. Furthermore, it is important to know where the surgeon is looking to observe the area of the incision in detail. In particular, it is vital to be able to zoom in on key elements, allowing viewers to see the incision area and the fine details of the necessary surgical skills. In this study, we aimed to highlight incision scenes from egocentric surgical videos in the spatiotemporal domain by utilizing two neural networks for the temporal and spatial highlights. For the temporal highlights, we designed a neural network that estimates the incision scenes by learning gaze speed, hand movements, number of hands, and background movements in egocentric surgical videos. For the spatial highlights, in order to estimate the important area to zoom in, we designed a neural network that learns the surgeon’s gaze on natural features of surgical scenes to form a probability map as a representation of the estimated gaze area. The estimated gaze area was also used to calculate the appropriate zoom-in position and zoom-in ratio. To control the highlighted parameters in accord with user preferences, we also made a user interface that allows for the selection of playback speed gain and zoom ratio gain. For the evaluation, we verified the performance of the networks by a quantitative assessment and conducted a user study with medical doctors by showing an actual surgical video to obtain a qualitative assessment on the proposed system.
India–ASEAN Relations: Riding and Transcending the “Indo-Pacific” Wave
Authors: NACHIAPPAN KARTHIK
Published: October 2021

This paper surveys India–ASEAN relations since the late 1990s amid the ongoing quest for a new regional compact in a post-pandemic era to advance India’s growing security and economic interests in Southeast Asia. During the cold war, India preferred to engage bilaterally with Southeast Asian countries than engage ASEAN directly. This tack shifted after 2000 as new security challenges arrived, particularly the need to secure the Indian Ocean. India’s overtures with ASEAN and ASEAN states grew alongside defense cooperation, which are now being renewed and renegotiated under the “Indo-Pacific” rubric despite differences over how India and ASEAN states regard the concept. Economic liberalization changed India’s calculus in the 1980s, which led to a series of overtures to economically tether India to the ASEAN. India–ASEAN trade grew dramatically over the last decade but fears abound over whether India’s rejection of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement will reverse its economic footprint in Southeast Asia. Given both security and economic differences between India and the ASEAN, opportunities exist in joining to address shared transnational challenges like cybersecurity and counterterrorism.
A Survey on Haptic Technologies for Mobile Augmented Reality
Authors: Bermejo Carlos , Hui Pan
Published: October 2021

Augmented reality (AR) applications have gained much research and industry attention. Moreover, the mobile counterpart—mobile augmented reality (MAR) is one of the most explosive growth areas for AR applications in the mobile environment (e.g., smartphones). The technical improvements in the hardware of smartphones, tablets, and smart-glasses provide an advantage for the wide use of mobile AR in the real world and experience these AR applications anywhere. However, the mobile nature of MAR applications can limit users’ interaction capabilities, such as input and haptic feedback. In this survey, we analyze current research issues in the area of human-computer interaction for haptic technologies in MAR scenarios. The survey first presents human sensing capabilities and their applicability in AR applications. We classify haptic devices into two groups according to the triggered sense:
cutaneous/tactile
: touch, active surfaces, and mid-air;
kinesthetic
: manipulandum, grasp, and exoskeleton. Due to MAR applications’ mobile capabilities, we mainly focus our study on wearable haptic devices for each category and their AR possibilities. To conclude, we discuss the future paths that haptic feedback should follow for MAR applications and their challenges.
MEC-enabled 5G Use Cases: A Survey on Security Vulnerabilities and Countermeasures
Authors: Ranaweera Pasika , Jurcut Anca , Liyanage Madhusanka
Published: October 2021

The future of mobile and internet technologies are manifesting advancements beyond the existing scope of science. The concepts of automated driving, augmented-reality, and machine-type-communication are quite sophisticated and require an elevation of the current mobile infrastructure for launching. The fifth-generation (5G) mobile technology serves as the solution, though it lacks a proximate networking infrastructure to satisfy the service guarantees. Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC) envisages such an edge computing platform. In this survey, we are revealing security vulnerabilities of key 5G-based use cases deployed in the MEC context. Probable security flows of each case are specified, while countermeasures are proposed for mitigating them.
Effect of 1,25‐Dihydroxyvitamin D3 on Stem Cells from Human Apical Papilla: Adhesion, Spreading, Proliferation, and Osteogenic Differentiation
Authors: Ma Yonggang , Yang Jiaojiao , Li Yan , Sun Lijie , Liu Zhuyun , Qian Jia , Wang Lizhong , Xia Delin
Published: October 2021

Currently, it still remains a difficult problem to treat apical insufficiency of young permanent teeth resulted from pulp necrosis or periapical periodontitis. Previous studies have demonstrated that the treatment of revascularization using stem cells from apical papilla (SCAPs) results in increased root length and thickness of traumatized immature teeth and necrotic pulp. In this study, we investigated the role of 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 in regulating the adhesion, spreading, proliferation, and osteogenic differentiation of SCAP, laying the foundation for subsequent clinical drug development. The immature tooth samples were collected in clinical treatment. SCAPs with stable passage ability were isolated and cultured. The multidifferentiation potential was determined by directed induction culture, while the stem cell characteristics were identified by flow cytometry. There were three groups: group A—SCAPs general culture group; group B—SCAPs osteogenesis induction culture group; and group C—SCAPs osteogenesis induction culture+1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 group, and the groups were compared statistically. The proliferation of SCAPs in each groups was detected through CCK‐8 assay. RT‐qPCR was used to detect the transcription levels of Runx2, ALP, Col I, and OCN of SCAPs in each groups. Results exhibited that the isolated SCAPs had multidifferentiation potential and stem cell characteristics. After 24 h culturing, cells in group C spread better than those in groups A and B. The proliferation activity of SCAPs factored by CCK‐8 ranked as group C > group B > group A, while the transcription levels of Runx2, ALP, Col I, and OCN leveled as group C > group B > group A. These results suggested that 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 can significantly promote the adhesion, spreading, and proliferation of SACPs and improve the osteogenic differentiation of SCAPs by means of regulating upward the transcription level of osteogenic differentiation marker.
Attitude Perception of Badminton Players Based on Mobile Edge Computing
Authors: Wang Anzhi , Yi Xiuling
Published: October 2021

In order to help badminton players make reasonable training plans and realize a comprehensive grasp of the training process, this paper mainly recognizes and perceives the posture of badminton athletes based on the method of moving edge calculation. Firstly, from the perspective of moving edge motion analysis, considering the vector field formed by moving edge vector as movable spatial distribution information, the spatial distribution model of moving edge field is realized. Secondly, while athletes interact with the computer through limb movement, the overall posture of athletes is divided into several parts, and each part is perceived separately. Finally, in the human posture evaluation module, an algorithm for human posture evaluation in the image pixel plane is proposed. Through comparative experiments, the motion recognition algorithm can effectively recognize the three typical swing movements of badminton players in the video and improve the overall performance of the existing recognition algorithms.
Application of Medical Imaging Based on Deep Learning in the Treatment of Lumbar Degenerative Diseases and Osteoporosis with Bone Cement Screws
Authors: Mu Shengkai , Wang Jingxu , Gong Shuyi
Published: October 2021

Objective. To explore the application value of magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and GSI-energy spectrum electronic computed tomography (CT) medical imaging based on the deep convolutional neural network (CNN) in the treatment of lumbar degenerative disease and osteoporosis. Methods. There were 56 cases of suspected lumbar degenerative disease and osteoporosis. A group of 56 subjects were examined using 1.5 TMR spectrum (MRS) and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) to collect the lumbar L3 vertebral body fat ratio (FF) and L1~4 vertebral bone mineral density (BMD) value. We divided the subjects into 2 groups with

T

value -2.5 as the critical point. Set

T

value > -2.5 as the negative group and

T

value ≤ -2.5 as the positive group. Pearson’s method is used for FF-MRS and BMD correlation analyses. A group of all patients underwent GSI-energy spectrum CT scan, and X-ray bone mineral density (DXA) test results (bone density per unit area) were used as the gold standard to analyze the diagnosis of osteoporosis by the GSI-energy spectrum CT scan method value. Results. The differences in FF and BMD between the negative group and the positive group were statistically significant (

P
<
0.01

), and there was a highly negative correlation between the average value of FF and BMD. 30 cases were diagnosed as osteoporosis by DXA. The accuracy of GSI-energy spectrum CT medical imaging in diagnosing osteoporosis is 89.30%. The GSI-energy spectrum CT diagnosis of osteoporosis and DXA examination results have good consistency. Conclusion. Based on the deep convolutional neural network (CNN) MRS technology, GSI-energy spectrum CT medical imaging is used in the clinical diagnosis and treatment of lumbar degenerative lesions and osteoporosis. It has a good advantage in assessing bone quality and has good consistency with DXA examination and has better application value high.
Innovation and Practice of Music Education Paths in Universities under the Popularity of 5G Network
Authors: Cao Haoyu
Published: October 2021

With the development of the 5G mobile Internet, cloud computing, Internet of Things, and other cutting‐edge technologies, the era of big data has quietly arrived. The purpose of this paper is to explore the feasibility of the application of new technologies for music teaching in the era of big data in the context of the rapid development of science and technology in the information society, to enlighten and lead music teachers to apply the spontaneous and conscious awareness of new media and fully apply the new achievements of science and technology in the information society for future music classroom teaching, and to analyze the mode, method, trend, characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of music teaching in the new media environment. The aim is to analyze the advantages and shortcomings of music teaching in colleges and universities and to find solutions and future development strategies for them so that in the future, the 5G Internet can better serve music lovers and better contribute to the cause of music education in colleges and universities. New media, as a product of constantly updated information technology, provides powerful data support for the development of various fields, and the education industry also needs new media to boost the rapid development of education information technology, which of course includes college music teaching. The effective integration of new media technology into the college music classroom can improve the classroom efficiency of music teaching with rich and diverse teaching resources and flexible teaching forms.
Liraglutide Decreases Liver Fat Content and Serum Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 Levels in Newly Diagnosed Overweight Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Li Xinyue , Wu Xiaojuan , Jia Yumei , Fu Jing , Zhang Lin , Jiang Tao , Liu Jia , Wang Guang
Published: October 2021

Purposes. In this study, we aimed to verify plasma fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) elevation in newly diagnosed overweight patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and to evaluate the effectiveness of liraglutide on reducing liver fat content and serum (FGF21) levels in those patients. Methods. A 12-week, single-center, prospective study was conducted. Twenty newly diagnosed overweight patients with T2DM and NAFLD were recruited. Twenty healthy age, sex, and body mass index (BMI) matched subjects were enrolled as the control group. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure serum FGF21 levels. Liver fat content was determined using the 3.0 T whole-body MRI scanner. Results. Those newly diagnosed overweight patients with T2DM and NAFLD had a BMI of

27.6
±
0.5

 kg/m2. They had higher levels of FGF21 (

159.6
±
35.7

vs.

124.1
±
42.9

 pg/ml,

P
<
0.001

) and increased liver fat content (

19.3
±
9.4

vs.

4.5
±
0.6

%,

P
<
0.001

) compared to the controls. Liraglutide treatment for 12 weeks induced a significant 4.9 kg weight loss (95% confidence interval (CI): -6.1, -3.7,

P
<
0.001

), which was equivalent to a relative reduction of 6.8% (95% CI: 5.3%, 8.3%,

P
<
0.001

). FGF21 levels decreased after the 12-week liraglutide treatment (

159.6
±
35.7

vs.

124.2
±
27.8

 pg/ml,

P
=
0.006

). There was a positive correlation between relative changes of liver fat content and relative change of FGF21 (

r
=
0.645

,

P
=
0.002

). FGF21 levels significantly decreased in patients who had a significant decrease in liver fat content (≥29%) (95% CI: -262.8, -55.1,

P
=
0.006

); however, there was no significant change in the patients without a significant decrease in liver fat content (<29%) (95% CI: -60.0, 54.1,

P
=
0.899

). Conclusions. Liraglutide treatment reduced both liver fat content and FGF21 levels in newly diagnosed overweight patients with T2DM and NAFLD. FGF21 may be a potential biomarker for evaluating the effects of liraglutide treatment on hepatic fat and glucose metabolism.
The Role of PSA Density among PI‐RADS v2.1 Categories to Avoid an Unnecessary Transition Zone Biopsy in Patients with PSA 4‐20 ng/mL
Authors: Wang Zhi-bing , Wei Chao-gang , Zhang Yue-yue , Pan Peng , Dai Guang-cheng , Tu Jian , Shen Jun-kang
Published: October 2021

Objective. To evaluate the role of prostate‐specific antigen density (PSAD) in different Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System version 2.1 (PI‐RADS v2.1) categories to avoid an unnecessary biopsy in transition zone (TZ) patients with PSA ranging from 4 to 20 ng/mL. Materials and Methods. In this retrospective and single‐center study, 333 biopsy‐naïve patients with TZ lesions who underwent biparametric magnetic resonance imaging (bp‐MRI) were analyzed from January 2016 to March 2020. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to determine independent predictors of clinically significant prostate cancer (cs‐PCa). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to compare diagnostic performance. Results. PI‐RADS v2.1 and PSAD were the independent predictors for TZ cs‐PCa in patients with PSA 4‐20 ng/mL. 0.9% (2/213), 10.0% (7/70), and 48.0% (24/50) of PI‐RADS v2.1 score 1‐2, 3, and 4‐5 had TZ cs‐PCa. However, for patients with PI‐RADS v2.1 score 1‐2, there were no obvious changes in the detection of TZ cs‐PCa (0.8% (1/129), 1.3% (1/75), and 0.0% (0/9)) combining with different PSAD stratification (PSAD < 0.15, 0.15‐0.29, and ≥0.30 ng/mL/mL). For patients with PI‐RADS v2.1 score ≥ 3, the TZ cs‐PCa detection rate significantly varied according to different PSAD stratification. A PI‐RADS v2.1 score 3 and PSAD < 0.15 and 0.15‐0.29 ng/mL/mL had 8.6% (3/35) and 3.7% (1/27) of TZ cs‐PCa, while a PI‐RADS v2.1 score 3 and PSAD ≥ 0.30 ng/mL/mL had a higher TZ cs‐PCa detection rate (37.5% (3/8)). A PI‐RADS v2.1 score 4‐5 and PSAD <0.15 ng/mL/mL had no cs‐PCa (0.0% (0/9)). In contrast, a PI‐RADS v2.1 score 4‐5 and PSAD 0.15‐0.29 and ≥0.30 ng/mL/mL had the highest cs‐PCa detection rate (50.0% (10/20), 66.7% (14/21)). It showed the highest AUC in the combination of PI‐RADS v2.1 and PSAD (0.910), which was significantly higher than PI‐RADS v2.1 (0.889, P = 0.039) or PSAD (0.803, P < 0.001). Conclusions. For TZ patients with PSA 4‐20 ng/mL, PI‐RADS v2.1 score ≤ 2 can avoid an unnecessary biopsy regardless of PSAD. PI‐RADS v2.1 score ≥ 3 may avoid an unnecessary biopsy after combining with PSAD. PI‐RADS v2.1 combined with PSAD could significantly improve diagnostic performance.
Study on Vibration Response of Layered Media under the Impact Load
Authors: Zhen Mengyang , Liu Jun , Xiao Zhimin , Zhao Futian , Wang Yue , Ou Chen , Liu Zheng , Zheng Haowen
Published: October 2021

To study the vibration response of the layered medium under impact loading, single‐layer concrete slabs, multilayer concrete slabs, and multilayer concrete slabs with a cemented filling layer were used as the working media to simulate the layered medium. A large number of impact loading tests were carried out by using a simple drop hammer device designed by us. The experimental results indicate that, under the impact load, the vibration response of the surface of the medium decreases with the increase in the distance to the impact source, showing the law of fast attenuation near field and slow attenuation far field, and the vibration energy moves to the low‐frequency component; the vibration response increases with the increase in the impact energy, and the difference in the vibration response caused by the impact energy decreases as the distance increases; the vibration response is negatively correlated with the thickness of the dielectric layer, and the divergence of vibration response caused by impact energy decreases with the increase in the thickness of the dielectric layer. Due to the existence of the free surface and bedding, the vibration response of the layered medium surface increases with the increase in the number of layers and the vibration velocity response increases with the increase in the distance to the impact source when it is close to the free surface and far from the vibration source. For the filling of the cemented layer, the vibration response of the layered concrete slab becomes more complex under impact loading, showing obvious disorder. At the same time, this paper also used the dimensional analysis method to establish the calculation model of the peak response of vibration velocity of layered media under the impact load, which provided an idea for determining the peak response of vibration velocity of the layered media.
Theoretical Study and Experiment Validation on Drilling Cutting Weight during the Whole Process of Drilling
Authors: Wang Z. H. , Tan J. , Tan Y. L. , Wu Y. H.
Published: October 2021

In mining engineering, coal and gas outburst is extremely dangerous dynamic disaster, which will cause serious casualties and property losses. As a method to predict coal burst, the drilling cutting method has been widely used in coal mines. The drilling cutting weight is an important index of the drilling cutting method. In theoretical calculation, scholars usually assume that the coal is isotropic and homogeneous before drilling to deduce the formula of drilling cutting weight. However, in actual mining engineering, drilling cutting is usually carried out in the plastic coal body in front of the working face. Therefore, in the present study, the theoretical formula of the drilling cutting weight in the plastic coal mass is deduced, as well as in the elastic coal mass. The results show that the drilling cutting weight calculated based on the deduced formula increases with the increase of drilling depth in the plastic coal mass, which is consistent with the field measurement results. The fragmentation degrees of coal around the drilling hole are also considered by introducing cohesion, which changes linearly along the radial direction of the drilling hole. The results show that the smaller the cohesion, the greater the drilling cutting weight. The calculation formula for drilling cutting in elastic coal mass is also given. The dilatancy effect of coal around the drilling hole is also considered by introducing expansion coefficient n, which changes linearly along the radial direction of the drilling hole. There is a good match between the theoretical calculation results and the laboratory test results. The obtained results are helpful for the prediction and prevention of coal burst.
Design and Research of Smart Neck Helmets Based on the KANO-QFD Model and TRIZ Theory
Authors: Zhao Deng , Chen Weiwei
Published: October 2021

In order to better serve the safety protection of urban residents during cycling, the KANO model is used to analyze the problems encountered by users wearing helmets during cycling. Combined with QFD, the weighted average analysis of user needs and the importance of engineering measures of product technical characteristics is carried out and users are found. We used TRIZ innovative invention principles to analyze the key requirements and converted them into TRIZ standard problems. We used the corresponding invention measures to improve the existing problems of the helmet and verified the rationality of the design through finite element analysis. Through the KANO-QFD model combined with the TRIZ innovative invention principle, the helmet is optimized to improve its safety.
Immunotherapy in Metastatic Mucosal Melanoma with Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation: A Case of Success
Authors: Luna Pais Helena , Luz Paulo , Lobo-Martins Soraia , Mansinho André , Sousa Rita , Luís Rita , Presa Dolores , Gomes Daniel , Costa Luís , Teixeira de Sousa Rita
Published: October 2021

Mucosal melanoma accounts for 1% of all melanomas. It is more aggressive than cutaneous melanoma, and local excision provides the best disease-free survival. The vast majority of patients eventually develop metastases, with a metastatic pattern independent of the primary tumor site. While studies show that BRAF and KIT inhibitors have a role in the management of these patients, the actual treatment focus is on immunotherapy. Herein is described the case of a 79-year-old woman with metastatic mucosal melanoma and bone marrow infiltration causing disseminated intravascular coagulation, who was treated with an immunotherapy combination (anti-CTLA-4 and anti-PD-1 antibodies), achieving complete disease remission. This is the third case of melanoma with disseminated intravascular coagulation at presentation and the second case treated with immunotherapy in the literature, but the only one achieving disease remission.
Numerical Simulation of Soil Displacement and Settlement in Deep Foundation Pit Excavations Near Water
Authors: Hu Zhongjing , Wang Qingbiao , Yang Shuo , Shi Zhenyue , Liu Bo , Song Hongxu , Wang Fuqiang
Published: October 2021

Advancing urbanization in China requires large-scale high-rise construction and underground transportation projects. Consequently, there is an increasing number of deep foundation pits adjacent to water bodies, and accidents occur frequently. This study uses a numerical simulation method to study the stability of the deep foundation pit near water based on the Biot three-dimensional seepage-stress coupling model, with the open-cut section on the south bank of the Jinan Yellow River Tunnel Project as the engineering field test. This indicates the following: (1) the maximum horizontal displacement of the diaphragm wall occurred in the fifth excavation stage, and a horizontal brace effectively controlled the inward horizontal displacement of the foundation pit; (2) considering the effect of seepage in the soft soil foundation, the maximum vertical displacement of the ground surface at each excavation stage occurred adjacent to the underground continuous wall. As the depth of the foundation pit increased, the vertical surface settlement decreases gradually in the direction away from the excavation face; (3) considering the seepage conditions, within each interval of excavation of the foundation pit, the horizontal displacement of the continuous underground wall and ground settlement declined; and (4) the numerical simulation and field monitoring data were in good agreement. Under the conditions of accurate model simplification and parameter selection, numerical simulations can adequately forecast conditions of the actual project.
A New Transmuted Generalized Lomax Distribution: Properties and Applications to COVID‐19 Data
Authors: Abu El Azm Wael S. , Almetwally Ehab M. , Naji AL-Aziz Sundus , El-Bagoury Abd Al-Aziz H. , Alharbi Randa , Abo-Kasem O. E.
Published: October 2021

A new five‐parameter transmuted generalization of the Lomax distribution (TGL) is introduced in this study which is more flexible than current distributions and has become the latest distribution theory trend. Transmuted generalization of Lomax distribution is the name given to the new model. This model includes some previously unknown distributions. The proposed distribution′s structural features, closed forms for an rth moment and incomplete moments, quantile, and Rényi entropy, among other things, are deduced. Maximum likelihood estimate based on complete and Type‐II censored data is used to derive the new distribution′s parameter estimators. The percentile bootstrap and bootstrap‐t confidence intervals for unknown parameters are introduced. Monte Carlo simulation research is discussed in order to estimate the characteristics of the proposed distribution using point and interval estimation. Other competitive models are compared to a novel TGL. The utility of the new model is demonstrated using two COVID‐19 real‐world data sets from France and the United Kingdom.
Dynamic Characteristics and Mechanism of the Saturated Compacted Loess under Freeze-Thaw Cycles
Authors: Wang Qian , Liu Fuqiang , Zhong Xiumei , Gao Zhongnan , Liang Shouyun , Liang Yuxin
Published: October 2021

To study the dynamic characteristics and mechanism of saturated loess after freeze-thaw cycles, a series of laboratory tests including freeze-thaw cycle tests, dynamic triaxial tests, and scanning electron microscope tests of the saturated remolded loess was conducted. The characteristics of the dynamic parameters of the saturated loess after different freeze-thaw cycles were discussed. The characteristics of the microstructure parameters changes were analyzed. The evolution process and mechanism of the microstructure of the remolded loess under freeze-thaw cycles were proposed. The results show that after different freeze-thaw cycles, the dynamic stress-dynamic strain curves of the saturated remolded loess conform to the hyperbolic model; however, the freeze-thaw cycle has a significant effect on the model parameter

b

. With the increase of freeze-thaw cycles, the dynamic shear modulus of saturated remolded loess first decreases and then increases, while the damping ratio is opposite. When saturated remolded loess experiences freeze-thaw cycles greater than four, its dynamic stability is better than that of saturated soil without freeze-thaw cycles. The dynamic stability reaches its peak after seven freeze-thaw cycles and is equivalent to that of saturated soil without freeze-thaw cycles after forty cycles. Combined with the results of the quantitative analysis of microstructure images, with the increase of the freeze-thaw cycles, the number of large and medium particles in the soil reduces, and the number of micros and small particles increases. The particle size tends to be uniform. The apparent porosity increases rapidly and then decreases sharply and tends to be stable after 4 freeze-thaw cycles. The pore and particle fractal dimensions continue to decrease. The probability of entropy increases first and then decreases. It is illustrated that the saturated loess has mainly experienced three steps under freeze-thaw cycles: (1) fracture and expansion of original skeleton cementation, (2) damage, crushing and aggregation of the particle, and (3) compaction and reorganization of soil structure. Besides, the saturation condition significantly accelerates the evolution process of the internal structure of the soil under freeze-thaw cycles. These lead to the strengthening effect of soil dynamic stiffness under long-term freeze-thaw cycles.
The Effectiveness of Traditional Chinese Medicine Jinlida Granules on Glycemic Variability in Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes: A Double-Blinded, Randomized Trial
Authors: Pan Jiemin , Xu Yuejie , Chen Si , Tu Yinfang , Mo Yifei , Gao Fei , Zhou Jian , Hu Cheng , Jia Weiping
Published: October 2021

This study aimed to evaluate the influence of Jinlida granules on glycemic variability with or without metformin treatment in patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes. This study was a 16-week, double-blinded, randomized, controlled clinical trial. The enrolled patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes were randomly divided into four groups: control, Jinlida, metformin, and combination treatment groups. A retrospective continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system was used for subcutaneous interstitial glucose monitoring for 3 days consecutively. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), traditional Chinese medicine symptom score, and CGM parameters, including glucose coefficient of variation, standard deviation of blood glucose values, and time in range of glucose 3.9–10.0 mmol/L, were assessed pre-test and post-test. A total of 138 participants completed the entire procedure. Compared with the pre-test, fasting plasma glucose, 2 hour postprandial plasma glucose, HbA1c, and traditional Chinese medicine symptom score all decreased in the four groups at the end of the test, and the combination treatment group showed the most significant decrease. In terms of CGM parameters, time in range of the Jinlida and metformin groups improved after intervention compared with the baseline (Jinlida group: 78.68 ± 26.15 versus 55.47 ± 33.29; metformin group: 87.29 ± 12.21 vs. 75.44 ± 25.42; P < 0.01). Additionally, only the Jinlida group showed decreased glucose standard deviation after intervention (1.57 ± 0.61 vs. 1.96 ± 0.95; P < 0.01). Jinlida granules can improve glycemic control and glycemic variability in patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes. Clinical trial registration number: ChiCTR-IOR-16009296.
Image Classification in HTP Test Based on Convolutional Neural Network Model
Authors: Liu Lin
Published: October 2021

HTP test in psychometrics is a widely studied and applied psychological assessment technique. HTP test is a kind of projection test, which refers to the free expression of painting itself and its creativity. Therefore, the form of group psychological counselling is widely used in mental health education. Compared with traditional neural networks, deep learning networks have deeper and more network layers and can learn more complex processing functions. In this stage, image recognition technology can be used as an assistant of human vision. People can quickly get the information in the picture through retrieval. For example, you can take a picture of an object that is difficult to describe and quickly search the content related to it. Convolutional neural network, which is widely used in the image classification task of computer vision, can automatically complete feature learning on the data without manual feature extraction. Compared with the traditional test, the test can reflect the painting characteristics of different groups. After quantitative scoring, it has good reliability and validity. It has high application value in psychological evaluation, especially in the diagnosis of mental diseases. This paper focuses on the subjectivity of HTP evaluation. Convolutional neural network is a mature technology in deep learning. The traditional HTP assessment process relies on the experience of researchers to extract painting features and classification.
Optimization of FSP Process Parameters on AA5052 Employing the S/N Ratio and ANOVA Method
Authors: Chanakyan C. , Sivasankar S. , Meignanamoorthy M. , Ravichandran M. , Mohanavel V. , Alfarraj Saleh , Almoallim Hesham S. , Manikandan Velu , Isaac JoshuaRamesh Lalvani J.
Published: October 2021

AA5052 bead‐on‐plate processing has been achieved by the friction stir processing (FSP) technique to examine the manipulation of process parameters. It also improved the base metal surfaces to analyze the microstructure. The tool spinning speed, traverse speed, and axial load were preferred to investigate the effect of friction stir bead‐on‐plate processing on the tensile strength qualities and microhardness in AA5052. An optical microscope was used to dissect the fabricated processed zones of the microstructure. By using the design of the experiment, the orthogonal array of the L9 Taguchi method was used to construct the processing experiments. The analysis of variance and the signal‐to‐noise ratio methods were employed to identify the optimum unification of process parameters and the significant benefaction of a specific parameter on the responses. The outcomes showed that the tool spinning speed was the principal factor affecting the characteristics of tensile strength and microhardness, succeeded by the traverse speed and axial load. The intermetallic compound layer had formed during the processing under specified conditions. This examination revealed that the optimum parameters could intensify the mechanical behaviour of AA5052.
A New Stemness‐Related Prognostic Model for Predicting the Prognosis in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Huang Xiao-Yan , Qin Wen-Tao , Su Qi-Sheng , Qiu Cheng-Cheng , Liu Ruo-Chuan , Xie Shan-Shan , Hu Yang , Zhu Shang-Yong
Published: October 2021

Objective. This study is aimed at identifying stemness‐related genes in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Methods. The RNA‐seq data of PADC patients were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Genotype‐Tissue Expression (GTEx) databases. The mRNA expression‐based stemness index (mRNAsi) and epigenetically regulated mRNAsi (EREG‐mRNAsi) of PADC patients were evaluated. The mRNAsi‐related gene sets in PADC were identified by weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA). The key genes were further analyzed using functional enrichment analysis. The Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis and the Cox proportional hazards model were used to evaluate the prognostic value of the key genes. Prognostic hub genes were used to establish nomograms. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, concordance index (C‐index), and calibration curves were used to assess the discrimination and accuracy of the nomogram. Finally, these results were validated in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Results. A total of 36 key genes related to mRNAsi were identified by WGCNA. A prognostic gene signature compromising seven genes (TPX2, ZWINT, UBE2C, CCNB2, CDK1, BUB1, and BIRC5) was established to predict the overall survival (OS) of PADC patients. The Cox regression analysis revealed that the risk score was an independent prognostic factor for PADC. Patients were then divided into the high‐risk and low‐risk groups. The ROC curves, C‐index, and calibration curves indicated good performance of the prognostic signature in the TCGA and GEO datasets. Moreover, the nomogram incorporating clinical parameters showed better sensitivity and specificity for predicting the OS of PADC patients. Conclusion. The stemness‐related prognostic model successfully predicted the OS of PADC patients and could be used for the treatment of PADC.
Ellipsoid Zone Integrity and Visual Acuity Changes during Diabetic Macular Edema Therapy: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Kessler Lucy J. , Auffarth Gerd U. , Bagautdinov Dmitrii , Khoramnia Ramin
Published: October 2021

Purpose. Ellipsoid zone (EZ) integrity is identified as a potential biomarker for therapy surveillance and outcome prediction of visual acuity (VA). However, only a few studies report long-term results of over 1 year of clinical and anatomical changes in patients with diabetic macular edema (DME). This study is aimed at describing the long-term VA and anatomical outcomes in spectral domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) (relative ellipsoid zone reflectivity ratio, central macular thickness, and volume) in patients with DME treated with antivascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy. Furthermore, we studied the correlation between EZ integrity and changes in visual acuity. Methods. 71 eyes of 71 patients were included in this retrospective study. Clinical characteristics were reviewed yearly. OCT data were assessed at baseline and after 1, 3, and 5 years. EZ parameters were quantified automatically. OCT parameters and visual outcome were correlated and analyzed in multivariable regression models. Results. EZ reflectivity ratio correlated with functional outcome in DME patients from baseline to fifth year at all time points (for all

p
<
0.05

). EZ reflectivity improved the most in the first year of treatment (0.68 to 0.75;

p
<
0.05

) and declined gradually until year 5 of therapy (0.71; compared to baseline

p
>
0.05

). Similarly, best VA was achieved after 1 year (0.40 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) to 0.28 logMAR;

p
<
0.001

) and declined gradually until year 5. Final VA in year 5 was comparable to baseline (0.45 logMAR, compared to baseline

p
>
0.05

). Together with baseline VA, baseline EZ parameters did predict VA outcome after 1 year (

p
<
0.05

). Concordantly, VA and EZ parameters from year 1 were associated with VA outcome in year 2. Conclusion. This study described the long-term course of EZ changes during anti-VEGF treatment in DME patients. In addition, our results underlined the potential of EZ parameters as novel OCT biomarkers for prediction of VA outcomes during therapy.
Optimization Effects of Load Reduction for Earth Pressure on High‐Filled Cut‐and‐Cover Tunnels Using the Discrete Element Method
Authors: Yu Bentian , Xia Junying , Li Sheng , Zhao Liangliang
Published: October 2021

In the Northwestern part of Loess Plateau of China, the ravine and valley are numerous; therefore, high‐filled cut‐and‐cover tunnels (HFCCTs) play a major role in meeting traffic needs and creating a great deal of usable land. However, due to higher backfill soil, a high earth pressure is generated, which affects the safety of HFCCTs. To this end, using the discrete element method (DEM), three load reduction measures were introduced to evaluate HFCCT: the cross section types of HFCCT; the combination of optimized cross section type with load reduction using expanded polystyrene (EPS); and the combination of optimized cross section type with load reduction using the EPS and concrete wedge (CW). We evaluated changes in earth pressure of HFCCTs with reference to the density and laying position of EPS and the height as well as width of CW. Parametric DEM studies were performed to characterize these influential factors. It was found that different cross section types of HFCCT have a certain influence on earth pressure distribution, and load reduction effects of EPS were extremely obvious, resulting in a sharp drop in vertical earth pressure on top of HFCCT and a slight growth in lateral earth pressure on the sides of HFCCT. Moreover, installation of CWs reduced the VEP and LEP of HFCCT. These factors were also shown to exert important effects on load reduction mechanisms of HFCCT. Based on their influence on earth pressure of HFCCT from a macroscopic and microscopic view, optimal values for influential factors were derived.
Impact of Addition of Banana Fibres at Varying Fibre Length and Content on Mechanical and Microstructural Properties of Concrete
Authors: Mugume Rodgers B. , Karubanga Adolph , Kyakula Michael
Published: October 2021

This experimental study aimed at investigating the impact of addition of banana fibres on the mechanical (compression, splitting tension, and flexure) and microstructural (microscopic morphology and Energy Dispersive X‐ray Spectroscopy) properties of concrete. Concrete mixes comprising of banana fibres of varying fibre lengths (40, 50, and 60 mm) and fibre contents (0.1, 0.2, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.5%) were assessed. Addition of banana fibres to concrete was observed to significantly impact on compressive strength only at lower fibre contents of up to 0.25% for all fibre lengths. Fibre length had no significant impact on compressive strength at lower fibre contents of up to 0.25%, but shorter fibres were observed to perform better than longer ones at higher dosages more than 0.25%. Increase in fibre content positively impacted on tensile strength of concrete at relatively lower fibre dosages of up to 1%. Similarly, fibre length impacted on tensile strength of concrete at lower fibre contents of up to 1% and, longer fibres were observed to be more effective than shorter ones. Addition of banana fibres generally did not greatly contribute to flexural strength of concrete but had a marginal impact only when shorter fibres were used at lower fibre dosages. Also, microstructure of concrete was improved through better bonding between the fibres and the matrix and reduction in porosity of the matrix, which resulted in improved mechanical properties of the composite. Banana fibres further contributed to changes in phases of the composite structure of Banana fibre‐reinforced concrete (BFRC) through a reduction in its interplanar spacing and lattice structure. For optimal purposes, addition of banana fibres should be limited to a maximum of 1% fibre content preferably using shorter fibre lengths. Further research to improve flexural strength of BFRC to meet minimum technical requirements is required before it can be considered for structural applications.
Factors Affecting Doses of Roxadustat Versus Darbepoetin Alfa for Anemia in Nondialysis Patients
Authors: Akizawa Tadao , Tanaka-Amino Keiko , Otsuka Tetsuro , Yamaguchi Yusuke
Published: October 2021

Introduction: Roxadustat is an oral hypoxia-inducible factor prolyl hydroxylase inhibitor for treating anemia of chronic kidney disease (CKD). This post hoc analysis of a Japanese, open-label, partially randomized, phase 3 study in nondialysis-dependent (NDD) CKD patients treated with traditional erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) evaluated dosing trends of roxadustat and darbepoetin alfa (DA) required to maintain target hemoglobin concentrations in patients with risk factors associated with ESA hyporesponsiveness. Methods: Patients enrolled in the 1517-CL-0310 study (NCT02988973) that demonstrated noninferiority of roxadustat to DA for change in average hemoglobin levels of week 18–24 from baseline who had used human recombinant erythropoietin or DA before conversion and who were randomized to either roxadustat or DA were included. The endpoints were the average allocated dose of roxadustat and DA per administration in the last 6 weeks (AAD/6W), assessed by subgroups known to be associated with ESA hyporesponsiveness. The analysis of variance was performed by the treatment group to test the influence of subgroup factors on the AAD/6W of study drug. The ratios between the mean AAD/6W in each subgroup category and the within-arm mean AAD/6W were calculated. Results: Two hundred and sixty-two patients were randomized to either the roxadustat or DA comparative group and received treatment (roxadustat, n = 131; DA, n = 131). Higher mean (standard deviation) doses of both roxadustat (63.15 [24.84] mg) and DA (47.33 [29.79] μg) were required in the highest ESA resistance index (≥6.8) quartile (p = 0.003 and p < 0.001, respectively). Patients with adequate iron repletion had the lowest doses for both roxadustat (45.54 [18.01] mg) and DA (28.13 [20.98] μg). High-sensitivity C-reactive protein ≥28.57 nmol/L and the estimated glomerular filtration rate <15 mL/min/1.73 m2 were associated with requiring higher DA but not roxadustat doses. Discussion/Conclusion: The roxadustat dose required to maintain target hemoglobin in NDD patients in Japan with anemia of CKD relative to DA dose may not be impacted by low-grade inflammation. Roxadustat may be beneficial for ESA-hyporesponsive NDD CKD patients.
Salidroside Mitigates Airway Inflammation in Asthmatic Mice via the AMPK/Akt/GSK3β Signaling Pathway
Authors: Luan Xue , Cui Chunai , Jiang Jingzhi , Wang Chongyang , Li Li , Li Hongzi , Xu Chang , Li Liangchang , Chi Yongxue , Yan Guanghai
Published: October 2021

Introduction: This study aimed to explore the effects and mechanisms of salidroside (SAL) in airway inflammation in asthmatic mice. Methods: Mice were sensitized with ovalbumin (OVA) to establish an asthma model. They were divided into the control group, OVA group, SAL low-dose group (SAL-L), SAL high-dose group (SAL-H), and dexamethasone (DXM) group. The airway reactivity of the mice was measured, and the total cells, neutrophils, eosinophils, and lymphocytes were counted, respectively. The levels of IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, and IFN-γ in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were detected by ELISA. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression levels of p-AMPK, p-Akt, and p-GSK3β. Western blot was used to detect cytokine levels in lung tissue and p-AMPK, p-Akt, and p-GSK3β levels in LPS-induced 16HBE cells. Results: The airway hyperresponsiveness of asthmatic mice in the SAL-H group decreased (p < 0.05), and the total number of cells, neutrophils, eosinophils, and lymphocytes decreased significantly (p < 0.05). In addition, the airways of mice showed airway inflammatory infiltration and goblet cell proliferation, and the corresponding cellular inflammatory factors IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 were significantly decreased. However, the expression of IFN-γ in BALF and lung tissues was increased (p < 0.05). Moreover, after the mice were treated with SAL, the phosphorylation level of AMPK was significantly increased, which further reduced the phosphorylation levels of Akt and GSK3β (p < 0.05). Both SAL and AMPK inhibitors exerted effects on LPS-induced 16HBE cells, consistent with in vivo results. Conclusion: SAL can inhibit bronchial hyperresponsiveness and reduce tracheal inflammation by increasing AMPK phosphorylation and inhibiting Akt and GSK3β signaling pathways.