bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Virtual reconstruction of midfacial bone defect based on generative adversarial network
Authors: Xiong Yu-Tao , Zeng Wei , Xu Lei , Guo Ji-Xiang , Liu Chang , Chen Jun-Tian , Du Xin-Ya , Tang Wei
Published: June 2022

Background

The study aims to evaluate the accuracy of the generative adversarial networks (GAN) for reconstructing bony midfacial defects.

Methods

According to anatomy, the bony midface was divided into five subunit structural regions and artificial defects are manually created on the corresponding CT images. GAN is trained to reconstruct artificial defects to their previous normal shape and tested. The clinical defects are reconstructed by the trained GAN, where the midspan defects were used for qualitative evaluation and the unilateral defects were used for quantitative evaluation. The cosine similarity and the mean error are used to evaluate the accuracy of reconstruction. The Mann–Whitney U test is used to detect whether reconstruction errors were consistent in artificial and unilateral clinical defects.

Results

This study included 518 normal CT data, with 415 in training set and 103 in testing set, and 17 real patient data, with 2 midspan defects and 15 unilateral defects. Reconstruction of midspan clinical defects assessed by experts is acceptable. The cosine similarity in the reconstruction of artificial defects and unilateral clinical defects is 0.97 ± 0.01 and 0.96 ± 0.01, P = 0.695. The mean error in the reconstruction of artificial defects and unilateral clinical defects is 0.59 ± 0.31 mm and 0.48 ± 0.08 mm, P = 0.09.

Conclusion

GAN-based virtual reconstruction technology has reached a high accuracy in testing set, and statistical tests suggest that it can achieve similar results in real patient data. This study has preliminarily solved the problem of bony midfacial defect without reference.
A comparsion study between debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention and two-stage revision total knee arthroplasty for the management of periprosthetic joint infection occurring within 12 weeks from index total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Zhang Yanchao , Gao Zhisen , Zhang Ti , Dong Yu , Sheng Zhuoqi , Zhang Fei , Zhou Yonggang , Guo Lingfei
Published: June 2022

Background

Managing periprosthetic joint infections are variable in practices. Debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention (DAIR) is one of the favorable interventions. Given that the success rate of the two-stage revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA) might be overestimated. The purpose of this study is to compare the success rate between DAIR and standard two-stage rTKA with a comparable intervention time.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the consecutive knee periprosthetic joint infection cases which underwent DAIR or two-stage rTKA (all procedures were performed by the senior author) within 12 weeks since their primary TKA between July 2009 and October 2019. Average follow-up was 72.20 ± 40.70 months (range 29–148 months) in the DAIR group compared to 89.14 ± 43.06 months after spacer insertion (range 29–163 months) in the two-stage revision group (P = 0.156). According to different interventions, demographic data; timing of surgical intervention; hospital for special surgery knee score; and success rate were collected and compared between the DAIR group and two-stage revision group. Failure of treatment was based on the Delphi consensus and the fate of spacers. The pathogen types and failure cases were also recorded and analyzed.

Results

Average follow-up was 72.20 ± 40.70 months (range 29–148 months) in the DAIR group compared to 89.14 ± 43.06 months after spacer insertion (range 29–163 months) in the two-stage revision group. Time from index surgery was 3.90 ± 2.92 weeks (range 0–12 weeks) in the DAIR group, and 5.11 ± 2.86 weeks (range 0–12 weeks) in the 2-stage exchange group, respectively. The success rate was 70.0% and 75.0% in the DAIR group and two-stage revision group, respectively. But no significant differences were observed between the two groups.

Conclusion

DAIR demonstrated comparable effectiveness with two-stage rTKA. We recommended DAIR as a choice for patients with current infection within 12 weeks after primary TKA. For methicillin-resistant staphylococcal infections and fungal infections, two-stage rTKA might be preferred.
The potential shared brain functional alterations between adults with ADHD and children with ADHD co-occurred with disruptive behaviors
Authors: Liu Ningning , Jia Gaoding , Li Haimei , Zhang Shiyu , Wang Yufeng , Niu Haijing , Liu Lu , Qian Qiujin
Published: June 2022

Background

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder. Many previous studies have shown that the comorbid status of disruptive behaviour disorders (DBD) was a predictor for ADHD persistence into adulthood. However, the brain mechanisms underlying such a relationship remain unclear. Thus, we aim to investigate whether the brain functional alteration in adults with ADHD could also be detected in children with ADHD co-occurring with disruptive behaviours from both quantitative and categorical dimensions.

Methods

A total of 172 children with ADHD (cADHD), 98 adults with ADHD (aADHD), 77 healthy control children (cHC) and 40 healthy control adults (aHC) were recruited. The whole-brain spontaneous fluctuations in brain activity of each participant were recorded using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), and the functional connectivities (FCs) were calculated. We first compared the FC differences between aADHD and aHC. Then, for the regions with significantly abnormal FCs in aADHD, we further compared these features between cADHD and cHC. In addition, the correlation between these FCs and the conduct disorder (CD)/oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) symptoms were analysed in cADHD. Moreover, to render the results readily interpretable, we compared the FC differences among ADHDCD−, subthreshold ADHDCD+ and cHC groups, and among ADHDODD−, ADHDODD+ and cHC groups. Finally, we repeated the above analysis after controlling for other comorbidities and core symptoms to diminish the potential confounding effects.

Results

We found that compared with aHC, aADHD showed significantly increased FCs in the VN, DMN, SMN, and DAN. The aforementioned abnormal FCs were also detected in cADHD, however, in an opposite orientation. Notably, these abnormal FCs were positively correlated with CD symptoms. Finally, the subthreshold ADHDCD+ group even exhibited a tendency of adult-like increased FCs compared with the cHC. The results held after controlling for other comorbidities and core symptoms.

Conclusion

This study provides functional neuroimaging evidence that CD might be a risk factor for ADHD persistence into adulthood. Our work highlights the importance of differentiating ADHDCD+ from ADHD and inspiring further understanding of brain development in ADHD.
First case of two supernumerary markers derived from chromosome 5 and chromosome 8
Authors: Giansante Roberta , Palka Bayard De Volo Chiara , Alfonsi Melissa , Morizio Elisena , Guanciali Franchi Paolo
Published: June 2022

Background

Small supernumerary marker chromosomes (sSMC) are additional centric chromosome fragments too small to be identified by banding cytogenetics alone. A sSMC can originate from any chromosome and it is estimated that 70% of sSMC are de novo, while 30% are inherited. Cases of sSMC derived from chromosome 5 (sSMC5) are rare, accounting for1.4% of all reported sSMC cases. In these patients, the most common reported features are macrocephaly, dysmorphic facial features, heart defects, growth retardation, hypotonia, and intellectual disability. Also sSMC derived from chromosome 8 are very rare and the phenotype of patients with sSMC8 is very variable. Common clinical features of the patients include developmental delay, mental retardation, intellectual disability, hypotonia, hypospadias, attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD), skeletal anomalies, dysmorphic facial features, and renal dysplasia. To the best of our knowledge, in literature there are no cases with coexistence of sSMC5 and sSMC8, so we reviewed the literature to compare cases with SMC5 and those with SMC8 separately. This study is aimed to highlight the unique findings of a patient with the coexistence of sSMC5 and sSMC8.

Case presentation

We describe a female patient with two supernumerary markers derived from chromosome 5 (SMC5) and chromosome 8 (SMC8). The patient was born prematurely at 30 weeks with respiratory distress and bronchodysplasia. On physical examination she presented dysmorphic features, respiratory issues, congenital heart defect, developmental delay, and intellectual disability. The G-banded chromosome analysis on cultured lymphocytes revealed in all the analyzed cells a female karyotype with the presence of two supernumerary chromosomal markers and the array-CGH highlighted the region and the size of these two duplications. We also used the fluorescent in situ hybridization analysis (FISH) using painting of chromosomes 5 and 8 to confirm the origin of the two sSMC. So, the karyotype of the patient was: 48, XX, +mar1, +mar2.

Conclusions

This is the first case with two markers: one from chromosome 5 and one from chromosome 8. Based on the data reported, we can affirm that the phenotype of our patient is probably caused mainly by the presence of the sSMC.
Current status of inherited pancreatic cancer
Authors: Olakowski Marek , Bułdak Łukasz
Published: June 2022

Background

It is estimated that about 10% of pancreatic cancer cases have a genetic background. People with a familial predisposition to pancreatic cancer can be divided into 2 groups. The first is termed hereditary pancreatic cancer, which occurs in individuals with a known hereditary cancer syndrome caused by germline single gene mutations (e.g.,BRCA1/2,CDKN2A). The second is considered as familial pancreatic cancer, which is associated with several genetic factors responsible for the more common development of pancreatic cancer in certain families, but the precise single gene mutation has not been found.

Aim

This review summarizes the current state of knowledge regarding the risk of pancreatic cancer development in hereditary pancreatic cancer and familial pancreatic cancer patients. Furthermore, it gathers the latest recommendations from the three major organizations dealing with the prevention of pancreatic cancer in high-risk groups and explores recent guidelines of scientific societies on screening for pancreatic cancers in individuals at risk for hereditary or familial pancreatic cancer.

Conclusions

In order to improve patients’ outcomes, authors of current guidelines recommend early and intensive screening in patients with pancreatic cancer resulting from genetic background. The screening should be performed in excellence centers. The scope, extent and cost-effectiveness of such interventions requires further studies.
Prophylaxis in healthcare workers during a pandemic: a model for a multi-centre international randomised controlled trial using Bayesian analyses
Authors: Bruce Pepa , Ainscough Kate , Hatter Lee , Braithwaite Irene , Berry Lindsay R. , Fitzgerald Mark , Hills Thomas , Brickell Kathy , Cosgrave David , Semprini Alex , Morpeth Susan , Berry Scott , Doran Peter , Young Paul , Beasley Richard , Nichol Alistair
Published: June 2022

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has exposed the disproportionate effects of pandemics on frontline workers and the ethical imperative to provide effective prophylaxis. We present a model for a pragmatic randomised controlled trial (RCT) that utilises Bayesian methods to rapidly determine the efficacy or futility of a prophylactic agent.

Methods

We initially planned to undertake a multicentre, phase III, parallel-group, open-label RCT, to determine if hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) taken once a week was effective in preventing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in healthcare workers (HCW) aged ≥ 18 years in New Zealand (NZ) and Ireland. Participants were to be randomised 2:1 to either HCQ (800 mg stat then 400 mg weekly) or no prophylaxis. The primary endpoint was time to Nucleic Acid Amplification Test-proven SARS-CoV-2 infection. Secondary outcome variables included mortality, hospitalisation, intensive care unit admissions and length of mechanical ventilation.

The trial had no fixed sample size or duration of intervention. Bayesian adaptive analyses were planned to occur fortnightly, commencing with a weakly informative prior for the no prophylaxis group hazard rate and a moderately informative prior on the intervention log hazard ratio centred on ‘no effect’. Stopping for expected success would be executed if the intervention had a greater than 0.975 posterior probability of reducing the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection by more than 10%. Final success would be declared if, after completion of 8 weeks of follow-up (reflecting the long half-life of HCQ), the prophylaxis had at least a 0.95 posterior probability of reducing the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection by more than 10%. Futility would be declared if HCQ was shown to have less than a 0.10 posterior probability of reducing acquisition of SARS-CoV-2 infection by more than 20%.

Discussion

This study did not begin recruitment due to the marked reduction in COVID-19 cases in NZ and concerns regarding the efficacy and risks of HCQ treatment in COVID-19. Nonetheless, the model presented can be easily adapted for other potential prophylactic agents and pathogens, and pre-established collaborative models like this should be shared and incorporated into future pandemic preparedness planning.

Trial registration

The decision not to proceed with the study was made before trial registration occurred.
Effect of the e-flipped learning approach on the knowledge, attitudes, and perceived behaviour of medical educators
Authors: Kian Laleh , Zarifsanaiey Nahid , karimian Zahra
Published: June 2022

Objectives

Using the Kirkpatrick evaluation model, investigate the effect of the e-flipped learning approach on the knowledge, attitudes, and perceived behaviour of medical educators.

Results

This interventional study was conducted on 140 eligible medical educators at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences (SUMS) from 2019 to 2021. A researcher-made questionnaire was developed to assess the impact of the course on three levels of reaction, knowledge, and perceived behaviour using the Kirkpatrick evaluation model. According to the findings, the average reaction and knowledge scores are higher than the desired level, but the perceived behaviour score is slightly lower than the desired level. The e-flipped learning approach can improve medical educators’ knowledge, attitude, and behaviour regarding online teaching.
Hearing loss and the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Wagatsuma Yukiko , Daimaru Kaori , Deng Shiqi , Chen Jou-Yin
Published: June 2022

Objective

Hearing loss is an important public health problem. Its causes vary, including infections, noise, and aging. The first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic occurred in April 2020 in Japan. During the pandemic, people were urged to stay at home and drastically changed their lifestyles. This study aimed to examine hearing loss before and during the pandemic. The prevalence during the pandemic after April 2020 was compared for the period in 2019. Study subjects were those who received health checkups in both periods. Hearing loss was defined as a hearing threshold of > 30 dB at 1 kHz and > 40 dB at 4 kHz in either ear using pure-tone audiometry.

Results

A total of 2367 persons presented in both 2019 and 2020. The overall rates of hearing loss were 9.5% and 13.2% before and after the pandemic, respectively. After controlling for age, sex, current smoking, regular exercise and alcohol consumption, the rate of hearing loss showed a significant increase in 2020 (p =  < 0.0001). With age stratification, an increase was observed in the participants aged < 40 years (1.3% vs. 3.1%, p < 0.001) and 40–59 years (7.2% vs. 12.6%, p < 0.001). Further studies are needed to confirm the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on hearing loss.
Effects of soy protein isolate and soy peptide preload on gastric emptying rate and postprandial glycemic control in healthy humans
Authors: Ueoka Hatsumi , Fukuba Yoshiyuki , Yamaoka Endo Masako , Kobayashi Toshio , Hamada Hironobu , Kashima Hideaki
Published: June 2022

Background

This study aims to compare the effects of soy protein isolate (SPI) and soy peptide (PEP) preload 30 min before a 75-g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) on the gastric emptying rate, plasma insulin, and blood glucose responses.

Methods

Nine healthy young subjects were evaluated on four occasions. The participants consumed a 200-ml solution containing either 20 g of SPI or PEP in experiment 1. In experiment 2, 30 min after consuming either 20 g of SPI or PEP solutions, an OGTT was performed to evaluate the individual glycemic response. The gastric emptying rate was measured by the 13C-sodium acetate breath test. Blood glucose and plasma insulin were measured before and after consuming either the SPI or PEP solutions and during the OGTT.

Results

In experiment 1, plasma insulin levels were higher 30 min after consuming the PEP solution than after the SPI solution. PEP resulted in a faster gastric emptying rate than SPI. In experiment 2, just before performing the OGTT, the plasma insulin response was higher for PEP than for SPI. Fifteen minutes after starting the OGTT, the blood glucose response was lower after consuming PEP than after SPI. The gastric emptying rate tended to be faster after consuming PEP than after SPI (p = 0.08).

Conclusion

A PEP preload might be slightly more effective for the suppression of postprandial blood glucose excursion compared with SPI; thus, a PEP preload potentially induces an enhanced insulin response just before the OGTT.
Epidemiological characteristics of different patterns of obesity among adults in rural communities of south-east Nigeria: a population-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Ayogu Rufina N. B. , Ezeh Mmesoma G. , Udenta Elizabeth A.
Published: June 2022

Background

Obesity is a complex disease characterised by excess fat accumulation and health risks. There is paucity of data on epidemiology of obesity patterns among adults in rural Nigeria. This study aimed to provide current data on the prevalence and predictors of three patterns of obesity (abdominal obesity alone, general obesity alone and a combination of both) among adults in three rural communities of Enugu State, South-east Nigeria to enhance specific obesity prevention and control programmes/interventions.

Methods

This population-based cross-sectional study involved 500 adults selected through a six-stage random sampling technique. Questionnaire was used to obtain data on socio-economic, dietary and lifestyle characteristics of the respondents. Weight, height and waist circumference were measured by standard procedures. Body mass index was used to assess general obesity while abdominal obesity was assessed through waist circumference. Each respondent was classified under only one of the three patterns: general obesity alone, abdominal obesity alone and combined obesity. Binary and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to assess the predictors. Significance was set P<0.05.

Results

Prevalence of abdominal obesity alone was 6.0%. General obesity alone was found among 31.4% and 45.6% were affected by combined obesity. Being a female (AOR:0.35, 95% C.I.: 0.14, 0.88) and not skipping meals (AOR:0.24, 95% C.I.: 0.10, 0.55) were associated with less likelihood of abdominal obesity but ≥3 times daily meal intake increased the risk by 2.52 (AOR:2.52, 95% C.I.:1.10, 5.75). Predictors of general obesity alone were age 41-60 years (AOR:1.84, 95% C.I.:1.14, 2.97), being a female (AOR:7.65, 95% C.I.:4.77, 12.26) and having any form of formal education (AOR:2.55, 95% C.I.:1.10, 5.91). Combined obesity was less likely among 41-60 year-olds (AOR:0.36, 95% C.I.:0.23, 0.56) and females (AOR:0.21, 95% C.I.:0.13, 0.32). Never married (AOR:1.94, 95% C.I.:1.03, 3.67) and vigorous physical activities (AOR:1.81, 95% C.I.:1.08, 3.02) increased the risk of combined obesity by almost 2.

Conclusions

Prevalence of abdominal obesity alone, general obesity alone and combined obesity were high. They were functions of age, sex, never married, having any form of formal education, skipping meals, ≥3 daily meal intake and self-reported vigorous physical activity. Focused nutrition and health education are recommended strategies for prevention and control of obesity.
Livelihood first: guidelines and policies concerning ethnic trade in the early days of the People’s Republic of China
Authors: Fang Sumei
Published: June 2022

Since its founding, the People’s Republic of China has been committed to promoting the development of ethnic minorities in all aspects, including officials training, governance building, economy and trade, culture, education and health care. Among them, ethnic trade, as an important component of economic work, was elevated to be as important as political work, which embodies the people-centered governance philosophy and the livelihood-oriented development philosophy of the Communist Party of China and the People’s Government of China. The four national ethnic trade conferences held in the 1950s formulated guidelines and policies that secured remarkable results in ethnic trade, which, to a large extent, guaranteed the production and supplies of consumption goods in ethnic areas, increased the income of ethnic minority people, and supported the national construction. It played an active role in eliminating ethnic estrangement and promoting ethnic unity, and effectively improved the identification of the ethnic minority people with the new country.
Barbershops as a setting for supporting men's mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study from the UK
Authors: Ogborn Georgina , Bowden-Howe Cerys , Burd Patsy , Kleijn Maya , Michelson Daniel
Published: June 2022

Background

Previous research has highlighted the need to promote help-seeking by men with mental health problems.

Aims

To investigate barbers’ views about offering mental health support for men in barbershops, with a specific focus on the psychosocial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Method

We used a sequential mixed-methods qualitative design with online data collection. In Phase 1, 30 barbers in Southern England completed surveys exploring perceptions of their clients’ mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic, experiences of informal supportive roles and scope for providing formal mental health support in barbershops. Phase 2 involved member validation interviews and explored practice implications with three Phase 1 respondents.

Results

Thematic analysis identified three overarching themes: ‘more than a haircut’ (describing how the physical and relational contexts of barbershops can offer a supportive environment for clients); ‘impacts of COVID-19’ (describing stressors related to the pandemic and implications for clients’ mental health and barber–client relationships); and ‘formal mental health strategies’ (describing opportunities for, and potential barriers to, formalising mental health support in barbershops).

Conclusions

Barbers were aware of their clients’ worsening mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Barbershops were generally considered to be a suitable setting in which to promote good mental health, monitor for signs of mental ill health and provide information about local mental health services. Future work is needed to co-produce and evaluate formal mental health promotion and prevention strategies in barbershops. Particular attention should be given to service innovations that preserve the credibility and trust that are fundamental to the barbershop experience for many males.
Antibody Response to COVID-19 mRNA Vaccine in Patients With Lung Cancer After Primary Immunization and Booster: Reactivity to the SARS-CoV-2 WT Virus and Omicron Variant
Authors: Valanparambil Rajesh M. , Carlisle Jennifer , Linderman Susanne L. , Akthar Akil , Millett Ralph Linwood , Lai Lilin , Chang Andres , McCook-Veal Ashley A. , Switchenko Jeffrey , Nasti Tahseen H. , Saini Manpreet , Wieland Andreas , Manning Kelly E. , Ellis Madison , Moore Kathryn M. , Foster Stephanie L. , Floyd Katharine , Davis-Gardner Meredith E. , Edara Venkata-Viswanadh , Patel Mit , Steur Conor , Nooka Ajay K. , Green Felicia , Johns Margaret A. , O'Brein Fiona , Shanmugasundaram Uma , Zarnitsyna Veronika I. , Ahmed Hasan , Nyhoff Lindsay E. , Mantus Grace , Garett Michael , Edupuganti Srilatha , Behra Madhusmita , Antia Rustom , Wrammert Jens , Suthar Mehul S. , Dhodapkar Madhav V. , Ramalingam Suresh , Ahmed Rafi
Published: June 2022

PURPOSE

To examine COVID-19 mRNA vaccine–induced binding and neutralizing antibody responses in patients with non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to SARS-CoV-2 614D (wild type [WT]) strain and variants of concern after the primary 2-dose and booster vaccination.

METHODS

Eighty-two patients with NSCLC and 53 healthy volunteers who received SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines were included in the study. Blood was collected longitudinally, and SARS-CoV-2–specific binding and neutralizing antibody responses were evaluated by Meso Scale Discovery assay and live virus Focus Reduction Neutralization Assay, respectively.

RESULTS

A majority of patients with NSCLC generated binding and neutralizing antibody titers comparable with the healthy vaccinees after mRNA vaccination, but a subset of patients with NSCLC (25%) made poor responses, resulting in overall lower (six- to seven-fold) titers compared with the healthy cohort ( P = < .0001). Although patients age > 70 years had lower immunoglobulin G titers ( P = < .01), patients receiving programmed death-1 monotherapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of both did not have a significant impact on the antibody response. Neutralizing antibody titers to the B.1.617.2 (Delta), B.1.351 (Beta), and in particular, B.1.1.529 (Omicron) variants were significantly lower ( P = < .0001) compared with the 614D (WT) strain. Booster vaccination led to a significant increase ( P = .0001) in the binding and neutralizing antibody titers to the WT and Omicron variant. However, 2-4 months after the booster, we observed a five- to seven-fold decrease in neutralizing titers to WT and Omicron viruses.

CONCLUSION

A subset of patients with NSCLC responded poorly to the SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination and had low neutralizing antibodies to the B.1.1.529 Omicron variant. Booster vaccination increased binding and neutralizing antibody titers to Omicron, but antibody titers declined after 3 months. These data highlight the concern for patients with cancer given the rapid spread of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant.
Distributed design features in VFDB multi-agent environment using cloud technologies
Authors: Starikov Aleksandr , Bunakov Pavel , Starikova Anna , Meshkov Dmitriy
Published: June 2022

The typical feature of the modern furniture market is the focus on the individual requirements of end customers. Custom-made production is designed to satisfy these requests. It imposes strict requirements to the timing and quality of design and technological preparation of the furniture production. By now only few domestic furniture enterprises have the necessary financial and human resources for fast and high-quality design development. The article describes the features of the approach to solving the design and engineering preproduction problems based on the virtual furniture design bureau (VFDB) concept. This concept means developing of the unified control environment which can provide fast and high-quality carrying out the furniture design orders from different distributed enterprises. For modeling the controlled design environment, it is suggested to use a multi-agent approach, which provides for interaction between different types of agents working on the same or different projects. As an example, four types of agents are identified in the article and their main functions are described in relation to the object structural and attribute model (OSAM) usage, which provides a multidimensional model representation of the cabinet furniture product design. To solve the main tasks of the design and engineering preproduction, agents should be equipped with appropriate design and management tools. The necessary tools should be included in modern CAD systems. It is suggested to implement the access of design participants to the necessary CAD software using cloud technologies based on time-based remote licensing of software modules. An example of such software is the BAZIS-Cloud service, which is provided by the Bazis-Center company. This service provides a solution to a number of the cabinet furniture design and engineering preproduction tasks in on-line mode using time-based remote licensing.
Using an object-oriented environment to create programs using control statements and loops
Authors: Sazonova Svetlana , Akamsina N. , Lemeshkin A.
Published: June 2022

The features of the development of packages of applied programs using control operators and loops in the object-oriented environment of C ++ Builder are considered. The examples of work with the use of control operators and loops in C ++ Builder developed by the authors and the corresponding algorithms are presented in the form of block diagrams, program codes and program interfaces. The technology of using the corresponding operators in the development of branching and cyclic algorithms in solving engineering problems is described. The features of using in practice the debugging tools of the environment when debugging programs with branches and loops are stated. The analysis of the hierarchy of conditional operators from the point of view of the optimality of its organization and the syntax for describing various variants of cyclic structures in the C ++ Builder language are carried out. The external specification and the main features of the solution of the assigned tasks are considered. It is substantiated that the development of algorithms and programs using control operators and loops in the C ++ Builder environment is the basis for solving engineering problems using software on a computer. The proposed approaches and algorithms can be used in practice as they can serve as a complex example in solving the set engineering and technical problems.
Assessment of the technical condition of bases, foundations and reinforced concrete columns of a frame building
Authors: Sazonova Svetlana , Nikolenko S. , Osipov Aleksandr
Published: June 2022

The paper presents the results of assessing the technical condition of foundations, foundations and reinforced concrete columns, which are elements of building structures of a multi-storey frame public building. The results of the survey of foundation structures and the characteristics of the soil base are given. The physical and mechanical characteristics of soils were determined using samples taken from the pits during the survey. The results of visual examination and field measurements of foundations in control pits are given. The results of calculating the strength of concrete foundations and columns are given. The construction and correction of the calibration dependence of the indirect non-destructive testing method was carried out on the object using the method of separation with shearing. The results of verification calculations of foundations are considered. Defects and damages of foundations were revealed. The category of technical condition of bases and foundations is substantiated. Recommendations for the repair of foundations have been developed. The design and reinforcement of columns are considered. Identified defects and damage to the columns. the results of verification calculations of columns are given. The category of the technical condition of the columns is determined. Recommendations for the repair of columns have been developed. Defects and damages of reinforced concrete columns recorded in the list of defects and damages are investigated. The main conclusions are made based on the results of a survey of foundations and reinforced concrete columns of a multi-storey frame building.
Los murciélagos vampiro y un falso juego de "las traes" y "encantadas"
Authors: Illescas Cobos Abiael Alexis , González Cerón Fernando , Vargas Ibarra Juan Pablo
Published: June 2022

En México el juego popular entre niños de “las traes” consiste en que uno de ellos debe atrapar a otro participante y en adelante éste es el que debe de continuar la persecución a los demás, mientras que el juego de las “encantadas” consiste en que si te atrapan quedas paralizado. Pero, ¿los animales realmente juegan? ¿cómo sería este juego entre el murciélago vampiro y sus “víctimas”?
Sagital Kraniosinostoz Tanılı Bebeklerde Endoskopik Süturektomi Sonrası Kask Tedavisinin Uzun Süreli Takibi
Authors: VOLKAN-YAZICI Melek , DEMİRCİ Harun
Published: June 2022

Objective: Infants with sagittal craniosynostosis are treated with endoscopic suturectomy and remodeling helmets. The long term effects and the effects that occur after the completion of remodeling helmet treatment have not been investigated. The purpose of this study is to investigate the long term effects of remodeling helmet and effects that occur after the completion of remodeling helmet treatment.
Material and Methods: 14 infants were included in the study. The children were assessed post-op, after the completion of remodeling helmet and at 6 months’ follow-up using a 3D laser acquisition system. The anterior-posterior(AP), medio-lateral(ML) cranial measurements, cranial circumference(CC), diagonal measurements, cephalic ratio(CR) and cranial vault asymmetry index(CVAI) were assessed.
Results: The infants used the remodeling helmet for 35±3.4 weeks. When the post-op and completion results are examined, it can be seen that during remodeling helmet usage duration, AP, ML, CC measurements, the CR and CVAI have statistically improved, resulting in normalization of cranial shape (p<0.05). When the follow up results are examined, it can be seen that there was no deterioration in the symmetry of the cranial shape and the AP, ML, CC measurements and the CR and CVAI were preserved (p>0.05) whilst the infants’ craniums continued to grow at a normal rate.
Conclusion: The present study shows that when remodeling helmet therapy is completed, cranial development continues at normal rates. There is no deterioration in cranial symmetry in the long term, and the effectiveness of the treatment continues after the remodeling helmet therapy is completed.
Should veterinary professionals be having more frequent CPR training?
Authors: Jones Clare
Published: June 2022

This literature review critically analyses papers on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training, the studies suggest frequent training or retraining can help with CPR; the evidence of medical professionals in various roles and environments shows that regular training for staff can help with skills and knowledge retention. This training also demonstrates that there can be improvement in chest compression depth and efficiency as well as better response times of staff to a cardiopulmonary arrest. Each paper looks at how long skills are retained for as well as how often training should be undertaken, two comparing 3-month, 6-month or annual training to determine which is best. The studies indicate a knowledge gap in the need for CPR training in veterinary medicine.
Summer parasite update 2022
Authors: Wright Ian
Published: June 2022

The rapidly changing distribution of parasites affecting pets and the vectors that transmit them continues — this summer parasite update reveals what 2022 has brought so far, and suggests ways for controlling such parasitic incursions.
Self-reported and Market Home Values in Housing Wealth Inequality Measurement: Evidence from Warsaw and Prague
Authors: Tomal Mateusz
Published: June 2022

This paper aims to examine whether self-reported home valuations can be a substitute for objective market data in studies on the level of housing wealth inequality. In order to achieve this aim, information on subjective values of flats and their features in Warsaw (Poland) and Prague (Czechia) was used. Next, hedonic models were estimated to calculate the objective values of these residential properties. The results indicated that, on average, homeowners overestimated their real estate by 2.10% in Warsaw and underestimated by 5.49% in Prague. Finally, using tests for the equality of variances, it was examined whether the level of housing wealth inequality differed significantly when calculated using subjective and objective home values. The findings showed that self-reported home values cannot serve as a perfect proxy for market values when assessing the level of housing wealth inequality in both cities.
Distribution and provenance of heavy minerals from recent sediments of Green Lake, North Brazil, revisited
Authors: Ribeiro Anne Caroline S. , Santos Livaldo O. , Dos Santos Paulo Cerqueira , Almeida Rodolfo M. , Mendes Rodrigo C. , Mendes Anderson Conceição
Published: June 2022

Geostatistical and multivariate statistical analyses were applied to heavy mineral data from an Amazonian fluvial-lake system near the Tapajós River mouth to investigate the spatial distribution and source-area of sediments. Twenty-one points were investigated, and the physical characteristics of the Green Lake deepest point were determined. Sand accumulates in the lake margins and mud quantity increases towards the lake center. Heavy mineral assemblage is composed of zircon, tourmaline, kyanite, rutile, staurolite, anatase, sillimanite, garnet, and spinel. Tourmaline, staurolite, and spinel are more abundant in the southeast area of the lake, while kyanite is dominant in the north area and zircon is in the whole lake except in its southeast area. Zircon - tourmaline and zircon - staurolite pairs are negatively correlated (r= -0.947 and -0.775, respectively), while tourmaline - staurolite and sillimanite - anatase pairs have a positive correlation (r= 0.628 and 0.675, respectively) which indicate different source rock types. Geostatistical analysis grouped the heavy minerals in three grups: Group 1 (tourmaline – staurolite – spinel - kyanite) and Group 2 (garnet – rutile – sillimanite - anatase) related to metamorphic source rocks ranging from medium to high grade, and Group 3 (zircon) related to acid igneous source rocks. The heavy mineral assemblage of Green Lake is analogous to the assemblage of the Alter do Chão Formation, indicating that this formation is the source of sediments of Green Lake.
Design of an unclad single-mode fiber-optic biosensor based on localized surface plasmon resonance by using COMSOL Multiphysics 5.1 finite element method
Authors: Tariq Sara M. , Fakhri Makram A. , Salim Evan T. , Hashim U. , Alsultany Forat H.
Published: June 2022

This study proposed an unclad optical fiber biosensor based on the localized surface plasmon resonance phenomenon and operating at 650 nm using COMSOL Multiphysics 5.1 finite element method (FEM). Gold nanoparticles (50 nm thickness) were coated on the middle portion of the unclad fiber. Air, water, blood plasma, liver tissue, colon tissue, and pentanol (C5H11OH) were used as analytical layers with 3 µm. The sensor serves as a theoretical foundation for experimental research. The blood plasma had the highest sensitivity with a sensitivity of 10,638.297 nm/RIU and a resolution of 9.410-6RIU. The proposed sensor is a promising candidate for a low-cost, simple-geometry biochemical sensing solution.
Ceramic surface relief gratings imprinted on an optical fiber tip
Authors: Pala Piotr , Gemza Karolina , Kołodziej Piotr , Krzak Justyna , Gawlik Andrzej , Olszewski Jacek , Statkiewicz-Barabach Gabriela , Komorowska Katarzyna , Martynkien Tadeusz
Published: June 2022

We report on the fabrication, experimental measurement, and numerical
simulation of sol-gel diffraction grating structures deposited on the
end-face of a single mode optical fiber. Using the imprint method, we
manufactured surface relief grating structures in four configurations
with different grating-relative-to-fiber arrangements. We demonstrate
the high quality of the fabricated structures based on atomic force
microscopy imaging and their operational characteristics, presenting
measured and simulated far-field intensity distributions. Using a
numerical model, we simulated the diffraction patterns in the
far-field. We obtained strong agreement between the results of the
simulations and the experiments in terms of the angular positions of
the diffraction peaks. We also investigated the tolerance of
fabricated structures to high-power lasers. Among the proposed
structures, the most intriguing is the grism fabricated on a fiber
end-face using sol-gel imprint technology for the first time, to the
best of our knowledge.
Design of a vortex metalens with high focusing efficiency using propagation phase
Authors: Lv Shuyuan , Bai Yuchi , Luo Wenfeng , Meng Fei , Wang Rong
Published: June 2022

Three vortex-focused beams are produced with linearly polarized light along the

x

or

y

axis at a wavelength of 1550 nm. First, a polarization-independent vortex metalens with a topological charge of three and focal length of 3000 nm is designed by selecting cylindrical-shaped elements. This design has a focusing efficiency of 83%. Second, vortex beams with different focal lengths and topological charges are achieved by combining various shapes of structures. Both designs have a focusing efficiency of greater than 92%. The designed metasurface is of great significance to optical communication and radar detection.
The topology of genome-scale metabolic reconstructions unravels independent modules and high network flexibility
Authors: Martínez Verónica S. , Saa Pedro A. , Jooste Jason , Tiwari Kanupriya , Quek Lake-Ee , Nielsen Lars K.
Published: June 2022

The topology of metabolic networks is recognisably modular with modules weakly connected apart from sharing a pool of currency metabolites. Here, we defined modules as sets of reversible reactions isolated from the rest of metabolism by irreversible reactions except for the exchange of currency metabolites. Our approach identifies topologically independent modules under specific conditions associated with different metabolic functions. As case studies, theE.coli iJO1366 and Human Recon 2.2 genome-scale metabolic models were split in 103 and 321 modules respectively, displaying significant correlation patterns in expression data. Finally, we addressed a fundamental question about the metabolic flexibility conferred by reversible reactions: “Of all Directed Topologies (DTs) defined by fixing directions to all reversible reactions, how many are capable of carrying flux through all reactions?”. Enumeration of the DTs foriJO1366 model was performed using an efficient depth-first search algorithm, rejecting infeasible DTs based on mass-imbalanced and loopy flux patterns. We found the direction of 79% of reversible reactions must be defined before all directions in the network can be fixed, granting a high degree of flexibility.
Characterizing superspreading potential of infectious disease: Decomposition of individual transmissibility
Authors: Zhao Shi , Chong Marc K. C. , Ryu Sukhyun , Guo Zihao , He Mu , Chen Boqiang , Musa Salihu S. , Wang Jingxuan , Wu Yushan , He Daihai , Wang Maggie H.
Published: June 2022

In the context of infectious disease transmission, high heterogeneity in individual infectiousness indicates that a few index cases can generate large numbers of secondary cases, a phenomenon commonly known as superspreading. The potential of disease superspreading can be characterized by describing the distribution of secondary cases (of each seed case) as a negative binomial (NB) distribution with the dispersion parameter, k. Based on the feature of NB distribution, there must be a proportion of individuals with individual reproduction number of almost 0, which appears restricted and unrealistic. To overcome this limitation, we generalized the compound structure of a Poisson rate and included an additional parameter, and divided the reproduction number into independent and additive fixed and variable components. Then, the secondary cases followed a Delaporte distribution. We demonstrated that the Delaporte distribution was important for understanding the characteristics of disease transmission, which generated new insights distinct from the NB model. By using real-world dataset, the Delaporte distribution provides improvements in describing the distributions of COVID-19 and SARS cases compared to the NB distribution. The model selection yielded increasing statistical power with larger sample sizes as well as conservative type I error in detecting the improvement in fitting with the likelihood ratio (LR) test. Numerical simulation revealed that the control strategy-making process may benefit from monitoring the transmission characteristics under the Delaporte framework. Our findings highlighted that for the COVID-19 pandemic, population-wide interventions may control disease transmission on a general scale before recommending the high-risk-specific control strategies.
Real-time estimation of the epidemic reproduction number: Scoping review of the applications and challenges
Authors: Nash Rebecca K. , Nouvellet Pierre , Cori Anne
Published: June 2022

The time-varying reproduction number (Rt) is an important measure of transmissibility during outbreaks. Estimating whether and how rapidly an outbreak is growing (Rt> 1) or declining (Rt< 1) can inform the design, monitoring and adjustment of control measures in real-time. We use a popular R package for Rtestimation, EpiEstim, as a case study to evaluate the contexts in which Rtestimation methods have been used and identify unmet needs which would enable broader applicability of these methods in real-time. A scoping review, complemented by a small EpiEstim user survey, highlight issues with the current approaches, including the quality of input incidence data, the inability to account for geographical factors, and other methodological issues. We summarise the methods and software developed to tackle the problems identified, but conclude that significant gaps remain which should be addressed to enable easier, more robust and applicable estimation of Rtduring epidemics.