bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Barrow Holographic dark energy in fractal cosmology
Authors: Al Mamon Abdulla , Mishra Ambuj Kumar , Sharma Umesh Kumar
Published: August 2022

The current study takes into account the evolution of a fractal universe with holographic dark energy through Barrow entropy and dark matter, i.e. without pressure, which interact with one another through mutual interaction. The interaction term for this model is then rebuilt by using the Hubble length as the IR cut-off scale. We represent Barrow holographic dark energy as Nojiri–Odintsov generalized holographic dark energy in fractal universe. The cosmological parameters that change over the course of cosmic history are looked at from the early matter-dominated period through the late time acceleration. The results of the study indicate that the cosmos recently underwent a smooth transition from a decelerated to an accelerated phase of expansion. We also found that the Barrow holographic dark energy equation of state parameter exhibits a rich behavior, lying in the quintessence regime, the phantom regime, or experiencing the phantom-divide crossing during evolution, depending on the values of the coupling term [Formula: see text] and the Barrow exponent [Formula: see text]. It has been reported on the evolution of the model’s Hubble parameter and a comparison with the most recent cosmic chronometer data. The stability of the model has also been examined in order to determine its viability, with the square of sound speed being taken into account.
Numerical and Experimental Investigations on Nonlinear Buckling Response of a Laminated Composite Shell
Authors: Gnanasekar Surekha , Rajamohan Vasudevan
Published: August 2022

In this study, a laminated composite shell with uniformly applied hydrostatic pressure on its external surface is investigated numerically and experimentally. A numerical buckling analysis is carried out on a laminated composite shell with various nonlinearities including geometrical nonlinearity, material nonlinearity and geometric imperfection to obtain the critical buckling pressure using the commercially available software ANSYSⓇ. The eigen mode shape imperfection in the geometry is considered for the nonlinear buckling analysis of composite shell. The force-induced inward dimple (FID) and eigen affine imperfections are also considered for the numerical analysis. The nonlinear governing differential equations of the buckling performance of the shell are solved using the arc-length method coupled with nonlinear finite element analysis. The developed nonlinear finite element modeling of the composite shell is validated by comparing the critical buckling pressures available in the literature obtained for the composite cylinder and prolate and oblate composite domes. Further, the effectiveness of the developed numerical modeling and analysis is demonstrated by performing an experimental investigation on a prototype shell made up of GFRP composites and subjected to external hydrostatic pressure. Various parametric studies are also performed to study the effect of aspect ratio of the shell and ply configuration of the composite shell. It was shown that the buckling pressure of the composite shell is decreased if the FIDs are located at the apex of the shell and eigen affine imperfection amplitude of the shell is increased. However, a substantial effect in the critical pressure of the composite shell could not be observed, if the position of FIDs is located towards the bottom of the shell. It is also found that the composite shell with all 90° ply orientation having aspect ratio of 0.5 yields higher critical buckling pressure.
Enhanced Antibacterial Activity of Eugenol-Loaded mPEG-PCL Nanoparticles in Eliminating Resistant Bacteria from Wastewater
Authors: Shajari Mozhgan , Rostamizadeh Kobra , Shapouri Reza , Taghavi Lobat
Published: August 2022

In this study, eugenol-loaded mPEG-PCL nanoparticles were used to improve the anti-bacterial properties of eugenol in an attempt to eliminate the resistant bacteria. The mPEG-PCL copolymer was prepared by ring-opening polymerization of [Formula: see text]-caprolactone monomer in the vicinity of a dry mPEG and a tin (II) octoate catalyst. Polymeric nanoparticles were prepared through the nanoprecipitation procedure. The particle size and zeta potential of mPEG-PCL/eugenol were found to be [Formula: see text] nm and [Formula: see text] mV, respectively. The polymeric nanoparticle structure was identified by AFM, FT-IR, and DSC techniques. To evaluate and compare the antibacterial efficiency of mPEG-PCL/eugenol with that of free eugenol, a turbidity assay was used in association with gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. SEM images were taken from the bacteria before and after exposure to the mPEG-PCL/eugenol. The colony-forming unit per milliliter (CFU/mL) method was used to evaluate the performance of mPEG-PCL/eugenol on the growth rate of bacteria in hospital wastewater. The results showed that the mPEG-PCL/eugenol nanoparticles demonstrated an enormous antibacterial effect in connection with wild gram-negative bacteria strains at 40 [Formula: see text]M concentration and 37∘C. In the original hospital wastewater, mPEG-PCL/eugenol at the concentration of 0.125 [Formula: see text]M at 25∘C showed the largest decrease in the total microbial count.
Deploying decentralized, privacy-preserving proximity tracing
Authors: Troncoso Carmela , Bogdanov Dan , Bugnion Edouard , Chatel Sylvain , Cremers Cas , Gürses Seda , Hubaux Jean-Pierre , Jackson Dennis , Larus James R. , Lueks Wouter , Oliveira Rui , Payer Mathias , Preneel Bart , Pyrgelis Apostolos , Salathé Marcel , Stadler Theresa , Veale Michael
Published: August 2022

Lessons from a pandemic.
Let us not put all our eggs in one basket
Authors: Maraninchi Florence
Published: August 2022

Toward new research directions in computer science.
Changing the nature of AI research
Authors: Kambhampati Subbarao
Published: August 2022

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Subbarao Kambhampati considers how artificial intelligence may be straying from its roots.
Competition makes big datasets the winners
Authors: Edwards Chris
Published: August 2022

Measurement has driven research groups to home in on the most popular datasets, but that may change as metrics shift to real-world quality.
Measuring security practices
Authors: DeKoven Louis F. , Randall Audrey , Mirian Ariana , Akiwate Gautam , Blume Ansel , Saul Lawrence K. , Schulman Aaron , Voelker Geoffrey M. , Savage Stefan
Published: August 2022

Users are encouraged to adopt a wide array of technologies and behaviors to reduce their security risk. However, the adoption of these "best practices," ranging from the use of antivirus products to keeping software updated, is not well understood, nor is their practical impact on security risk well established. To explore these issues, we conducted a large-scale measurement of 15,000 computers over six months. We use passive monitoring to infer and characterize the prevalence of various security practices as well as a range of other potentially security-relevant behaviors. We then explore the extent to which differences in key security behaviors impact the real-world outcomes (i.e., that a device shows clear evidence of having been compromised).
Security by labeling
Authors: Kuehn Andreas
Published: August 2022

Protecting and empowering the digital consumer.
Polysulfide Speciation in Li–S Battery Electrolyte via In-Operando Optical Imaging and Ex-Situ UV-vis Spectra Analysis
Authors: Taiwo Gbenga S. , Rashti Ali , Mishra Mritunjay , Yao Koffi P. C.
Published: August 2022

Lithium sulfur (Li–S) batteries have received significant attention as one of the energy storage systems with excellent prospects for emerging applications due to their high energy density and low-cost. However, there are fundamental challenges impeding the commercialization of Li–S batteries. Notorious among those challenges is the “polysulfide shuttle” consisting of the dissolution into the electrolyte solvent and subsequent crossover to the anode of long-chain lithium polysulfides. Sparingly solvating electrolytes have been exploited as an approach to reduce the dissolution of polysulfides and thereby the shuttle effect. Using an optical in operando lithium-sulfur cell and ex situ UV–vis spectroscopy, we elucidate the speciation of polysulfides in fully and sparingly solvating electrolytes for Li–S batteries. Extensive literature meta-analysis reveals that the most unambiguous effect of sparingly solvating solvent is in improving the coulombic efficiency of sulfur-cells. Experimental optical imaging and UV–vis characterization elucidate a shift towards shorter-chain polysulfides in electrolytes with increasing lithium-salt concentration (more sparingly solvating). The shift to shorter-chain polysulfides corresponds to a reduction of polysulfide species participating in shuttling which corroborate the increased coulombic efficiency in sparingly-solvating electrolytes.
Fully automated mouse echocardiography analysis using deep convolutional neural networks
Authors: Duan Chong , Montgomery Mary Kate , Chen Xian , Ullas Soumya , Stansfield John , McElhanon Kevin , Hirenallur-Shanthappa Dinesh
Published: August 2022

Echocardiography is commonly used in preclinical research to evaluate cardiac structure and function. Despite the broad applications across therapeutic areas, the analysis of echo data is laborious and susceptible to interreader variability. In this study, we developed a fully automated mouse-echocardiography neural net (MENN). Cardiac measurements from MENN showed excellent correlations with manual analysis. Furthermore, the use of MENN leads to >92% reduction in analysis time and potentially eliminates the interobserver variability issue.
Cardiomyocyte-specific disruption of soluble epoxide hydrolase limits inflammation to preserve cardiac function
Authors: Sosnowski Deanna K. , Jamieson K. Lockhart , Gruzdev Artiom , Li Yingxi , Valencia Robert , Yousef Ala , Kassiri Zamaneh , Zeldin Darryl C. , Seubert John M.
Published: August 2022

The cardioprotective effects of genetic disruption and pharmacological inhibition of sEH have been demonstrated in a variety of cardiac disease models, including acute LPS inflammatory injury. For the first time, it has been demonstrated that sEH genetic disruption limited to the cardiomyocyte profoundly preserves cardiac function and limits local and systemic inflammation following acute LPS exposure. Hence, cardiomyocytes serve a critical role in the innate immune response that can be modulated to protect the heart.
Modeling the physiological roles of the heart and kidney in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction during baroreflex activation therapy
Authors: Clemmer John S. , Pruett W. Andrew
Published: August 2022

Treatments that are efficacious in patients with HFrEF have not shown a significant impact on cardiovascular mortality in patients with HFpEF. We believe these simulations offer novel insight into the important roles of the cardiac and renal nerves in HFpEF and the potential mechanisms of how baroreflex activation alleviates HFpEF disease progression.
Effects of nociceptive and mechanosensitive afferents sensitization on central and peripheral hemodynamics following exercise-induced muscle damage
Authors: Zambolin Fabio , Giuriato Gaia , Laginestra Fabio Giuseppe , Ottaviani Matteo Maria , Favaretto Thomas , Calabria Elisa , Duro-Ocana Pablo , Bagley Liam , Faisal Azmy , Peçanha Tiago , McPhee Jamie Stewart , Venturelli Massimo
Published: August 2022

Exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) is a well-known model to study mechanical hyperalgesia and muscle peripheral nerve sensitizations. The combination of static stretching protocol on the damaged limb extensively increases resting central hemodynamics with reduction in resting limb blood flow and passive leg movement-induced hyperemia. The mechanism underlining these results may be linked to reduction of vagal tone with concomitant increase in sympathetic activity following mechano- and nociceptive activation.
Analysis of Fractional Differential Equations with the Help of Different Operators
Authors: Iqbal Naveed , Al Harbi Moteb Fheed Saad , Alshammari Saleh , Zaland Shamsullah
Published: August 2022

This study uses an Elzaki decomposition method with two fractional derivatives to solve a fractional nonlinear coupled system of Whitham-Broer-Kaup equations. For the fractional derivatives, we used Caputo and Atangana-Baleanu derivatives in the Caputo manner. Furthermore, the proposed techniques are compared to the solutions of other renowned analytical methods, including the Adomian decomposition technique, variation iteration technique, and homotopy perturbation technique. We used two nonlinear problems to illustrate the accuracy and validity of the proposed approaches. The results of numerical simulations were used to verify that the proposed methods are accurate and efficient, and the results are displayed in graphs and tables. The obtained results demonstrate that the algorithm is very real, simple to apply, and effective in investigating the nature of complicated nonlinear models in science and engineering.
Viral Dynamic Surveillance in COVID‐19 Patients: A Cohort Study
Authors: Bi DeWu , Chen ZhenCheng , Wei ShanQiu , Xie ZhouHua , Zang Ning , Mo LiDa , Liu ZeDuan , Wang YuanLi , Cao LiangLi , Zhao FeiJun , Lin YanRong , Qin YaQin , Tang XiKe , Su HanZhen , Zhou JinAi , Liang JuanYing , Lan ZhenXu , Lin Lü , Xi ShaoYong , Luo XiaoCheng , Ma QiuYing , Pang XiaoFeng , Luo XiaoLu
Published: August 2022

Background. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is a potentially fatal pneumonia caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), especially those of novel SARS‐CoV‐2 variants and infection has affected over 700 million people globally. Methods. This retrospective, descriptive study included 118 patients admitted with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection as confirmed by real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Results. The median duration of detectable SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in patients with high ALT, AST, and PLT/LYMPH, or low CD4+, CD8+, and PLT/MONO was considerably longer. In the risk factor model, multivariate analysis was performed for the estimation of ALT (HR, 0.54; 95% CI, 0.36‐0.81), AST (HR, 0.56; 95% CI, 0.34‐0.93), CD4+ (HR,0.77; 95% CI, 0.48‐1.24), CD8+ (HR,0.64; 95% CI, 0.37‐1.11), PLT/LYMPH (HR, 1.16; 95% CI, 0.76‐1.77), and PLT/MONO (HR, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.43‐0.94). Conclusions. The longer viral RNA duration was associated with a higher International Prognostic Index score (p = 0.0013), demonstrating for the first time that multivariate features of the bioindicators closely associated with SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected patients clear the virus.
Mixed Production Line Optimization of Industrialized Building Based on Ant Colony Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Chen Xiaobo , Yu Fangfang , Zhou Hengyu , Li Zhengdao , Wu Kuo-Jui , Qian Xikun
Published: August 2022

Prefabricated components production line optimization is critical for improving industrialized building construction efficiency; however, few studies focus on the production line optimization problem in context of industrialized building construction. In order to optimize the large random orders in the prefabricated components production process, this research proposes a model to minimize variance of the production capacity utilization of prefabricated components in the production cycle, and the ant colony optimization algorithm is introduced to solve the mixed production line sequencing optimization problem. By optimizing the sequence, the production capacity of the component production is balanced, and the capacity utilization rate in the industrialized building construction process is improved. Finally, the effectiveness of the method is verified through a real case of fabricated building components production. The results show that the variance of daily production capacity utilization rate of the optimized hybrid component production line has reduced to 0.53%, which is significantly lower than the 2.45% before optimization. The proposed model could effectively achieve the production capacity balance of prefabricated components production line.
Intelligent Optimization of Parameters for Tens of MA-Class
Z-Pinch Accelerators
Authors: Fan Siyuan , Wei Hao , Gong Zhenzhou , He Xu , Sun Fengju , Qiu Aici , Xinxin Wang
Published: August 2022

In order to minimize the initial energy storage of tens of MA-class
Z-pinch accelerators, an intelligent
optimization method was developed based on the transmission line code
circuit model and PSOGSA algorithm. Using several input parameters, the four
overall parameters of the Z-pinch accelerator
could be fast determined, including the connection and parallel combination
of LTD cavities, the outer radius of the stack-MITL system, and electrical
length of monolithic radial transmission lines. The optimization method has
been verified by comparing the results with the
Z-300 and Z-800
conceptual designs. By means of this intelligent optimization, some factors
that affect the initial energy storage on high-current
Z-pinch accelerators have been investigated,
such as the operating electrical fields, the diameter of the stack-MITL
system, and the inner diameter of the LTD cavity. The suggestions for
designing relatively low-cost, efficient LTD-based accelerators have been
proposed.
Exploring the Design of Teaching Mental Health of College Students Based on Data-Driven Learning
Authors: Fang Ying , Li Na , Tsai Sang-Bing
Published: August 2022

Chinese contemporary college students, this generation has been pampered since childhood, growing up under the wings of their parents, most of them are flowers in the hothouse, now stepping into the university and carrying the double expectations of society and family. With the rapid development of modern technology and social culture, people in modern society are facing fierce competition, frequent stress, fast pace, and unprecedented psychological pressure, which has a significant impact on human health. Therefore, the construction of a university psychological wellness education model has become the focus of theoretical research. As a new type of mental health teaching and learning model, data-driven learning (DDL) not only provides learners with rich, diverse, and realistic mental health data, but also creates an ideal learning environment for learners due to its corpus-based teaching and learning characteristics. This paper explores the design of DDL-based mental health teaching and learning for students, combining theoretical research, and empirical analysis from the actual university, and constructing a comprehensive system of psychological wellness education in college while building a local system of DDL-based psychological wellness education. The experimental results show that the Q-learning algorithm and SA-Q algorithm have no environmental triggering mechanism, while the data-driven control algorithm has the step number of formula 24, 19, and 17, respectively, thus reaching the optimal path. Therefore, in the data-driven psychology classroom, students change from participating in activities according to the course teaching objectives and mental health teachers’ requirements to inquiry-based learning and interactive experiences that focuses on problem solving and task completion.
Evaluation of Modified Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) Mucilage as a Potential Pharmaceutical Excipient
Authors: Pasha Ali Zar , Bukhari Shazia Anwer , Mustafa Ghulam , Anjum Fozia , Mahr-un-Nisa  , Qari Sameer H.
Published: August 2022

Investigation on natural sources from plants, animals, and microorganisms that produce gums and mucilages goes on increasing day by day to check their pharmaceutical applications. Different mucilages have been studied for their pharmaceutical effects but the use of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) mucilage as a pharmaceutical excipient is still under the cover. The aim of this study was therefore to evaluate and compare the flow property and binding ability of crude, purified, modified (hydrolyzed and grafted), green synthesized nanoparticles (Zinc oxide (ZnO), cuperic oxide (CuO), silver (Ag), and gold (Au)) of date palm mucilage with hydroxy propyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) and commercially available paracetamol tablets. Previously purified mucilage (with 58.4% yield) was subjected to modification (i.e., acidic, basic, and enzymatic), grafting (polyacrylamide), and green synthesis of nanoparticles. Flow properties of powdered (granular) crude, purified, modified, and nanoparticles were studied and compared with flow properties of HPMC and paracetamol tablet granules. Tablets were made using granules of all types of date palm mucilage (discussed above), HPMC, and granules of paracetamol tablets to study and compare weight uniformity, hardness, friability, dissolution rate, and disintegration time. When 100 mg/kg of mucilage sample was given to mice no oral toxicity was found. The results obtained during this study were within the acceptable ranges given in pharmacopeias. The pseudoplastic flow behavior, hygroscopic nature, increased solubility, and swelling index across the increase in temperature, hardness of the tablets, friability, and drug release behavior were found better than HPMC and the binders used in commercially available paracetamol, hence making the date palm mucilage (crude, purified, and modified) an excellent excipient to be used in pharmaceutical dosage forms.
Construction of a User-Oriented Usability Metric Model for High-Performance Computer Systems
Authors: Sun Jian , Tong Jin
Published: August 2022

The peak performance of high-performance computers is affected by many factors in practical operation. Scientific programs in different application areas use different algorithms and have different requirements for HPC systems. For example, communication-intensive algorithms require higher network performance of the machine, and computation-intensive algorithms require higher processor performance. In the face of many HPC systems, how to evaluate and select the HPC system with high availability is a problem that must be solved. In this paper, we study how to construct a user-oriented usability metric model for high-performance computing systems, and the experimental results show that the proposed model can be good for the usability of high-performance computing systems and the performance indicators, and actual tests based on high-performance computing are the most authentic, reliable, authentic, and persuasive.
Platform Design of Psychological Teaching Classroom Evaluation Based on Mobile Edge Computing Resource Allocation
Authors: Shen Yang
Published: August 2022

In recent years, with the rapid development of mobile communication and the increasing popularity of smart mobile devices, the number of mobile communication services has increased sharply, and mobile terminals have become resource-constrained devices. Traditional cloud computing methods have become increasingly unable to meet the needs of many mobile communications services. In order to improve the quality of user experience, mobile edge computing has become one of the key technologies of the fifth-generation mobile communication system. It provides an effective solution that can reduce the load on the basic network and improve the user experience and has received widespread attention from all over the world. In view of the important direction of big data research, how to obtain economically valuable information from audio information is the key; first, the basic technical characteristics of big data and the technology involved are analyzed, and then the basic technical relationship of speech recognition is analyzed and the data are merged, and finally the big information in speech recognition is analyzed. The processing architecture provides a combination of speech recognition technology and big data for the application development technology architecture and application process. The effect of classroom assessment will affect whether students’ learning can be promoted and developed. For most psychology teachers, this is a topic worth exploring to determine what types of assessments can be used in the classroom to promote psychological teaching. The survey results show that in the current psychology classroom, the concept of teacher evaluation has changed, and student self-esteem and peer evaluation have appeared in the evaluation of teaching psychology. The content of the evaluation has gradually shifted to students’ emotions, attitudes, and values, and the evaluation methods have also changed. The type of evaluation can be more praised and encouraged.
Adaptive Decision Method in C3I System
Authors: Gao Kun , Wang Hao , Nazarko Joanicjusz , Jarocka Marta
Published: August 2022

As an important system in the national defense and military information construction, the command, control, communication, and intelligence (C3I) system urgently needs to establish an adaptive process to deal with the dynamic operating environment and changeable task requirements to ensure the long-term effective and stable operation of the system. As an important part of this process, the adaptive decision method should have the ability of online trade-off decision. Therefore, this paper presents an adaptive decision method based on parallel computing and optimization theory. This method combines operational requirements and commander preference to achieve the parallel adaptive decision solution. The experimental results show that the presented decision method can generate online trade-off strategies to deal with typical command and control scenarios of damage replacement in a simulated environment, effectively guide the system to carry out adjustment behavior, and achieve the goal of dynamic response to environmental changes and task changes.
Performance Evaluation and Management Method of Music Tutoring Schools Based on Analytic Hierarchy Process
Authors: Wang Li
Published: August 2022

On the basis of summarizing the relevant theories of performance management at home and abroad, the important role, significance, and development trend of performance management in music tutoring schools are analyzed. Starting from the actual management of music tutoring schools, taking a music tutoring school as an example, this article comprehensively analyzes the current situation of the school’s performance assessment. Considering that the constructed index system is a multilevel comprehensive index system, the analytic hierarchy process is used to give weight to the index. The calculation method and calculation steps are described in detail, and the weight of each index is obtained. Through the design and implementation of the school’s performance management system, solid theoretical and institutional support will be provided for the school to achieve sound development in the future. It is expected that the design of this performance can provide reference for such private schools in the country and promote the healthy and sustainable development of private training institutions in China. Let more schools and learners share the nectar and dividends brought by the system reform.
Audio Segmentation Techniques and Applications Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Aggarwal Shruti , G Vasukidevi , Selvakanmani S. , Pant Bhaskar , Kaur Kiranjeet , Verma Amit , Binegde Geleta Negasa
Published: August 2022

Audio processing has become an inseparable part of modern applications in domains ranging from health care to speech-controlled devices. In automated audio segmentation, deep learning plays a vital role. In this article, we are discussing audio segmentation based on deep learning. Audio segmentation divides the digital audio signal into a sequence of segments or frames and then classifies these into various classes such as speech recognition, music, or noise. Segmentation plays an important role in audio signal processing. The most important aspect is to secure a large amount of high-quality data when training a deep learning network. In this study, various application areas, citation records, documents published year-wise, and source-wise analysis are computed using Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) databases. The analysis presented in this paper supports and establishes the significance of the deep learning techniques in audio segmentation.
Analysis of Multiple Sexual Partners among 2665 Male College Students Who Have Sexual Behaviour in Zhejiang Province, China
Authors: Yang Zhongrong , Ma Qiaoqin , Chen Weiyong , Zhou Xin , Jiang Tingting , Guo Zhihong , Jin Meihua , Chen Wanjun
Published: August 2022

Objective. The objective of this study was to understand multiple sexual partners and related factors among male college students who exhibited sexual behaviour to provide a scientific basis for formulating HIV/AIDS prevention measures among college students. Methods. A stratified cluster random sampling method was conducted among 2665 male students who had sexual behaviour and were informed of the number of sexual partners from 13 colleges/universities in 11 cities in Zhejiang Province in 2018. Demographic characteristics, sexual attitudes, sexual behaviour, interventions, and related information were collected using a homemade online questionnaire. The chi‐square test or univariate logistic regression in different groups was conducted for multiple sexual partners, and a logistic regression model was used in the related factor analysis. Results. A total of 2665 college students who engaged in sexual behaviour were involved in the research; among them, 485 students (18.20%) had multiple sexual partners. The results of multivariate analysis showed that the participants whose sexual orientation was homosexual (adjusted OR = 4.10, 95%CI = 2.89 − 5.80), those who had received school education about HIV testing in the previous year (adjusted OR = 1.55, 95%CI = 1.20 − 1.99), those who had accepted one‐night stands (adjusted OR = 3.29, 95%CI = 2.43 − 4.47), those who had accepted commercial sex (adjusted OR = 1.89, 95%CI = 1.44 − 2.48), and those who were very confident in a condom use measure of self‐efficacy (adjusted OR = 1.78, 95%CI = 1.31 − 2.41) were more likely to have multiple sexual partners. The participants who were senior students (adjusted OR = 0.51, 95%CI = 0.31 − 0.84), those whose monthly living expenses were 1001‐1500 renminbi (adjusted OR = 0.69, 95%CI = 0.51 − 0.93), those who had known that “daily life and study contact cannot spread HIV” (adjusted OR = 0.59, 95%CI = 0.43 − 0.80), and those who knew that the CDC provides HIV testing (adjusted OR = 0.66, 95%CI = 0.46 − 0.95) were less likely to have multiple sexual partners. Conclusion. Multiple sexual partners were quite common among male college students who engaged in sexual behaviour. They had a separation of HIV/AIDS knowledge and action and a low rate of HIV testing. Further health education and intervention, including informing friends of strategies, are needed to guide students in correct sexual attitudes, safe sexual behaviour, and prevention of the spread of disease.
Full‐Scale Laboratory Test of Cutting Large‐Diameter Piles Directly by Shield Cutterhead
Authors: Wang Yuqing , Wang Xinyu , Xiong Yangyang , Yang Zhuangzhi , Zhang Jie
Published: August 2022

Based on the TBM tunnel of Red Line of Tel Aviv in Israel, this paper carried out laboratory tests of shield cutting concrete and reinforced concrete piles and investigated cutting performance of cutter, failure model of rebars, length of damaged rebars, and cutter vibration. The results indicate that under the condition of low tunneling speed and rotating speed, vibration of the cutterhead is small, and vibration of the center cutterhead is more obvious in the radial direction of the cutterhead. Cross sections of broken rebars mainly consist of shear section, tensile‐shear section, tensile‐compressive section, and bending section. Considering the tunnel status, it is recommended to adopt excavation speed of 3∼5 mm/min, and rotating speed of 1.0∼1.3 r/min. While cutting RC piles, the principle of “low excavation speed, high rotating speed, and less disturbance” is recommended. Cutting with disc cutters is efficient and the torque of which is stable but the length of the rebars got from cutting varies a lot. It is recommended that majorities of the cutters shall be disc cutters and supplemented with drag bits and tear cutters.
Analysis of Flow Characteristics of Straight Conjugate Crescent Gear Pump at Variable Working Conditions
Authors: Wu Guoguo , Yang Guolai , Cao Chuanchuan , Chai Hongqiang
Published: August 2022

The working conditions (i.e., gas content, working pressure, and working temperature) of oil in the actual hydraulic system are always in a dynamic process, which will cause the basic properties of oil (i.e., density, absolute viscosity, and effective bulk modulus) to change and further generate changes of the flow characteristics in the straight conjugate crescent gear pump (SCCGP). However, no clear explanation has been given for the variation of the flow characteristics of the SCCGP with the working conditions in previous studies. This paper first expounds the gear pair profile equations used to draw the tooth profile curves and the equation applicable to the calculation of the geometric displacement at the given geometric parameters. Subsequently, the mathematical models of the oil’s basic properties are analyzed, and it is explained how the changing working conditions affect the changes in oil properties. After that, the paper designs an orthogonal test scheme and applies it to the study of the flow characteristics of the SCCGP for the first time to optimize its working conditions. Then, the paper performs simulations in commercial CFD numerical software, and the change laws of the internal flow field, flow pulsation, pressure pulsation, volumetric efficiency, and total efficiency of the SCCGP at different working conditions are analyzed in detail. The working conditions for decreasing pulse rate and improving total efficiency are summarized. Finally, for model validation purposes, the paper elucidates the construction process of a high-pressure positive displacement pump test system and carried out experimental research. The simulation and actual measurement results are compared under the same working conditions. The results validate the accuracy of the simulation model and the potential for future analytical studies.
Predictive Polygenic Score for Outcome after First-Line Oxaliplatin-Based Chemotherapy in Colorectal Cancer Patients Using Supervised Principal Component Analysis
Authors: Park Hanla A. , Edelmann Dominic , Canzian Federico , Harrison Tabitha A. , Hua Xinwei , Shi Qian , Silverman Allison , Schneider Martin , Goldberg Richard M. , Alberts Steven R. , Hoffmeister Michael , Brenner Hermann , Chan Andrew T. , Peters Ulrike , Newcomb Polly A. , Chang-Claude Jenny
Published: August 2022

Background:

Associations between candidate germline genetic variants and treatment outcome of oxaliplatin, a drug commonly used for patients with colorectal cancer, have been reported but not robustly established. This study aimed to construct polygenic hazard scores (PHSs) as predictive markers for oxaliplatin treatment outcome by using a supervised principal component approach (PCA).

Methods:

Genome-wide association analysis for overall survival, including interaction terms (SNP*treatment type) was carried out using two phase III trials, 3,098 resected stage III colon cancer (rCC) patients of NCCTG N0147 and 506 metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients of NCCTG N9741, separately. SNPs showing interaction with genome-wide significance (P < 5 × 10–8) were selected for PCA to derive a PHS. PHS interaction with treatment was included in Cox regression models to predict outcome. Replication of prediction models was performed in an independent cohort, DACHS.

Results:

The two PHSs based on the first two principal components of selected SNPs (15SNPs for rCC and 13SNPs for mCRC) were used to construct interaction terms with treatment type and included in models adjusted for clinical covariables. However, in the DACHS study, the addition of the two PHS terms to clinical models did not improve the prediction error in either patients with rCC or mCRC. PHS interaction was also not replicated.

Conclusions:

The PHSs derived using principal components efficiently combined multiple predictive SNPs for estimating likelihood of benefit from oxaliplatin versus other treatment but could not be replicated.

Impact:

These results highlight the potential but also challenges in generating evidence for a predictive polygenic score for oxaliplatin efficacy.
XL-ing at Induction of Apoptosis in Kidney Cancer through Inhibition of BCL-XL
Authors: Wang Naitao , Hakimi A. Ari , Chen Yu
Published: August 2022

Through analysis of the cancer dependency map of CRISPR and short hairpin RNA datasets, the antiapoptotic BCL-XL was found to be a selective dependency in kidney cancer. Among kidney cancers, BCL-XL inhibition is most active in those with a mesenchymal gene signature, which portends a poor prognosis and response to current therapies.

See related article by Grubb et al., p. 4689
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor as a Predictive and Prognostic Biomarker for Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Amini Harandi Ali , Siavoshi Fatemeh , Shirzadeh Barough Siavash , Amini Harandi Asghar , Pakdaman Hossein , Sahraian Mohammad Ali , Fathtabar Zahra , Mohammadi Faezeh , Karamiani Faezeh , Ardehali Seyed Hossein
Published: August 2022

Background: Growing bodies of evidence suggest that angiogenesis plays a crucial role in the development and progression of multiple sclerosis (MS). Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is one of the key factors involved in angiogenesis. Because of this importance, we investigated the serum levels of VEGF in MS patients according to their clinical phase and subtype of MS in this study. Material and Methods: This case-control study was done on 47 definite MS patients with the first clinical attack and 47 randomly selected individuals without any underlying inflammatory and autoimmune disease as the control group. The total serum VEGF level was measured from the subject’s peripheral blood sample by ELISA during the first and second attacks of MS and 6 months after the first attack in the remission phase as well as the control group. In addition, the correlation between these variables and the influence of gender, age, and duration of the remission phase on such associations was evaluated by using the independent t test and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Results: There was an increase in the serum level of VEGF in all phases of MS compared with non-MS individuals (p value <0.0001) and a significant correlation between the serum level of VEGF and the interval between first and second attacks (r = −720, p < 0.0001). A higher serum level of VEGF in the first attack leads to higher VEGF levels in the second and sixth mount of remission phases. Conclusion: Rise in the serum VEGF level may be involved in MS’s relapsing phases and a shorter remission phase. Therefore, it could be used as a prognostic and predictive biomarker for MS disease.
Bilateral Choroidal Osteomas in an Elderly Woman: A Case Report
Authors: Maltese Cristina , Cassottana Paola , Vagge Aldo , Traverso Carlo Enrico , Iester Michele
Published: August 2022

Choroidal osteoma is a rare clinical entity of unknown etiology. It is a benign ossifying tumor characterized by mature bone replacing choroid. It typically affects young females, unilaterally. Vision loss occurs mainly due to photoreceptor degeneration secondary to decalcification and/or development of choroidal neovascularization, especially if located near the macular area. We present a case of an old woman with bilateral choroidal osteomas identified incidentally. An 84-year-old Caucasian woman who was asymptomatic, without clinical features suggestive of choroidal osteoma, was referred to our hospital for a follow-up visit. On the fundus examination, both eyes showed a suspected lesion. B-scan ultrasound demonstrated bilateral highly reflective calcified lesions within the choroid, with an evident cone of shadow, suggestive of choroidal osteoma. Further investigations have performed to confirm the diagnosis. Although the literature reports a more common one-sidedness and typical manifestation of choroidal osteoma in the teenage years, our case report refers to bilateral choroidal osteomas in an elderly woman.
Blue Skin, Nail, and Scleral Pigmentation Associated with Minocycline
Authors: Ricardo Jose W. , Shah Kalee , Minkis Kira , Lipner Shari R.
Published: August 2022

Minocycline, a semisynthetic derivative of tetracycline that is used to treat various infectious and noninfectious conditions, can cause tissue hyperpigmentation. The skin, oral mucosa, sclera, and rarely the nails, can all be affected. The discoloration varies from blue, slate-gray, or brown, and it typically occurs in a dose-dependent fashion. The mechanism of hyperpigmentation, however, remains largely unknown. Herein, we present a case of gray-blue hyperpigmentation of the skin, sclera, and nails after long-term treatment with minocycline for acne.
Engagement and commitment in Eco-Campus activities of pre-service teachers: Confirmatory factor analysis
Authors: Mahat Hanifah , Nayan Nasir , Hashim Mohmadisa , Saleh Yazid , Norkhaidi Saiyidatina Balkhis , Normelani Ellyn , Arifin Yulian Firmana , Nasruddin Nasruddin , Kartika Norma Yuni , Kumalawati Rosalina
Published: August 2022

This study was conducted to confirm the instrument of sustainability engagement and commitment in Eco-Campus activities of pre-service teacher. Respondents consisted of 500 pre-service teachers who were selected using stratified sampling techniques. The variables studied or the factors generated from exploratory factor analysis (EFA) of this study include knowledge, attitude, engagement, and commitment. Data were analyzed descriptively to obtain the reliability of the Cronbach's alpha value and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to obtain a four-factor solution using SPSS 22 and AMOS 20 software. The results of the analysis showed that the Cronbach's alpha value was in the high classification of more than 0.80. The results of the CFA analysis for the measurement model showed that the four-factor solution was compatible and acceptable based on the recommended fit indices (CMIN=214.073, DF=49, CMIN/DF=4.369, p=.000, GFI=.941, CFI=.971, TLI=.961, RMSEA=.082). As a result, the 36-item measuring model created was suitable for assessing sustainability participation and commitment in Eco-Campus activities, particularly among pre-service teachers in Malaysia.
The core aspects of teacher’s book content: An analysis on teacher’s needs
Authors: Fahmi Fahmi , Pratolo Bambang Widi , Abbas Azwar
Published: August 2022

The aspects of the content of teacher’s book received less concern among the teachers, academicians, and researchers. Therefore, the present study was carried out to investigate the core aspects of teacher’s book content based on teachers' needs. Three experienced-teachers from different junior high schools were involved in the present study. The study used a descriptive qualitative method. A need analysis was carried out to obtain the data through semi-structured interviews. The data was collected and analyzed through coding and categorizing techniques based on the questions category. The study found that there were several core aspects needed by the teachers that should be included in a teacher’s book content, namely appearance design/layout, procedures in teaching, material explanation, teaching aids, teaching and learning assessment, time allocation, example of classroom language, and key answers. These aspects are purely based on the analysis on teachers' needs and expectations. The researchers point out that this investigation is fruitful to carry out since it synchronizes the content of the teacher’s book and the needs of the teachers which provide a set of ready-made procedures or proper steps in teaching. The present study strongly supports any researchers to investigate other essential aspects of teacher-textbook’s content for more resourceful content.
Gamifications: Lexical and trajectory image methods as cognitive intervention in numeracy
Authors: Ali Siti Rahaimah , Sarudin Anida , Azura Raja Noor Farah , Farhana Mohamad Zuria
Published: August 2022

This paper describes a study with the goal of exposing children to gamification activities in teaching and learning numeracy based on the lexical method by implementing a trajectory image (image representator). Early childhood learning difficulties in understanding abstract and symbolic numerical concepts and procedures have been identified as an issue that needs to be addressed and acted as a starting point in the effort to shape the transformation of early childhood mathematics both in teaching and learning. Therefore, this study would like to inspect the role played by language as the medium used in translating the concept of numeracy whether it is applied contextually or in a variety of contexts. The respondents selected for this study were 10 teachers and 50 preschool children and a numeracy module instrument based on the numeracy comprehension level model framework (MPKN) was chosen and applied to students by using lexical and image methods called trajectory image or image representator. Findings have shown that the understanding of preschool children related to previous aspects of numeracy is still at level 1 and level 2. It clearly stated that children are still unable to grasp the concept of numeracy in detail. This study has introduced the MPKN and LexsMath gamification products that have successfully provided a clear understanding to children regarding the in-depth understanding of numeracy aspects from level 1 to level 4 and also have shed some light on more effective teaching methods that can be employed in the aspect of numeracy teaching and learning.
Mobile application-based media learning and its’ effect on students’ learning motivation
Authors: Kusuma Fajar Indra , Suryani Nunuk , Sumaryati Sri
Published: August 2022

Online learning is a solution used during the COVID 19 pandemic. This study aimed to determine the conditions of learning during the pandemic and the development of mobile application-based learning media. This was a research and development (R&D) in the context of developing mobile application-based learning media. The results of the development of learning media by researchers indicate that experts and students have positive opinions about this cellular application-based learning media. All experts from media experts, materials experts and expert practitioners stated that this media is "very worthy". The results of the perception questionnaire of 126 respondents also rated this media "very worthy" with a percentage value of 86.30%. In addition, the post-test revealed that learning media based on mobile applications is proven to be effective in increasing students' learning motivation.
Effectiveness of distance teaching for autism spectrum disorder students during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Al Salahat Riyadh , Ahmad Aznan Che
Published: August 2022

This study examined the effectiveness and level of distance-teaching services provided to students with autism spectrum disorder in the United Arab Emirates, Emirate of Abu Dhabi (from a viewpoint of the teachers and parents). To achieve the study goals, the distance education services assessment tool was built in two forms. The data collection for this study was done by distributing online questionnaires to all participants. The results of the study indicated an assessment of distance-teaching services in a high level from the teachers' viewpoint with a total average (4.16 of 5), and the parent's viewpoint indicated their assessment of these services in a high level with a total average (4.18 of 5). The study suggested for future researchers to conduct more studiestargeting the challenges and difficulties during the distance-teaching for parents and teachers of students, include or limit other programs to assess the distance-teaching among parents and teachers of autism spectrum disorder students of severe degree.