bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Cardiovascular Activity and Emotional Experience in Healthcare Workers (HCWs) Operating in COVID-19 Wards
Authors: Vitale Ermanno , Filetti Veronica , Vella Francesca , Senia Paola , Rapisarda Lucia , Matera Serena , Lombardo Claudia , Vinnikov Denis , Rapisarda Venerando , Ledda Caterina
Published: December 2022

The new 2019 coronavirus or SARS-CoV-2 has been the first biological agent to generate, in this millennium, such a global health emergency as to determine the adoption of public health measures. During this sanitary emergency, the emotional experience of healthcare workers (HCWs) has been hugely tested by several factors. In fact, HCWs have been exposed to greatly tiring physical, psychological and social conditions. The authors investigated the cardiocirculatory activity of a group of HCWs as well as how they perceived stress while working in COVID-19 wards. In particular, every HCW underwent a medical check, an electrocardiographic base exam, systolic and diastolic pressure measurement, and cardio frequency measurement. Furthermore, each HCW was provided with a cardiac Holter device (HoC) and a pressure Holter (Hop). Some psychological factors were considered in order to quantify the stress perceived by each HCW while at work through the administration of two questionnaires: the “Social Stigma towards Patients due to COVID Scale (SSPCS)” and the “Professional Quality of Life Scale (ProQOL)”. The HoC and HoP analysis results for HCWs working in COVID-19 OU wards showed significant variations in cardiocirculatory activity. From the analysis of the SSPCS questionnaire answers, it is clear that all of them showed a sense of duty towards their patients. The analysis of the ProQOL questionnaire answers showed that the prevailing attitude is fear; however, HCWs did not absolutely discriminate against those who had COVID-19 nor did they refuse to help those in need. Continuous monitoring of these employees, also carried out through occupational medicine surveillance, allows for the detection of critical conditions and the implementation of actions aimed at preventing chronic processes.
Association of Red Blood Cell Life Span with Abnormal Changes in Cardiac Structure and Function in Non-Dialysis Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease Stages 3–5
Authors: Rao Siyi , Zhang Jing , Lin Jiaqun , Wan Jianxin , Chen Yi
Published: December 2022

Introduction: With the invention and improvement of the carbon monoxide (CO) breath test, the role of shortened red blood cell life span (RBCLS) in renal anemia, an independent risk factor for cardiovascular events in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), is gradually attracting attention. Considering that heart failure is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with CKD, this study investigated the correlation between the RBCLS and the cardiac structure and function in non-dialysis patients with CKD stages 3–5, aiming to provide new ideas to improve the long-term prognosis of CKD patients. Methods: One hundred thirty-three non-dialysis patients with CKD stages 3–5 were tested for RBCLS. We compared the serological data, cardiac ultrasound results, and follow-up prognosis of patients with different RBCLS. Results: As the RBCLS shortened, the patients’ blood pressure, BNP, and CRP gradually increased, most significantly in patients with an RBCLS < 50 d. Patients with an RBCLS < 50 d had substantially lower hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit, and albumin levels than those with an RBCLS ≥ 50 d. The cardiac ultrasound results show that patients with an RBCLS < 50 d had significantly larger atrial diameters than those with an RBCLS ≥ 50 d and were associated with more severe diastolic dysfunction. Patients with an RBCLS < 50 d had a 3.06 times greater risk of combined heart failure at baseline than those with an RBCLS ≥ 70 d and a higher risk of heart failure at follow-up. CKD stage 5 patients with an RBCLS < 50 d were more likely to develop heart failure and require renal replacement therapy earlier than patients with an RBCLS ≥ 50 d. Conclusions: In non-dialysis patients with CKD stages 3–5, there is a correlation between the red blood cell life span and cardiac structure and function. The RBCLS may also impact the renal prognosis of CKD patients.
Comparative Visual Outcome Analysis of a Diffractive Multifocal Intraocular Lens and a New Diffractive Multifocal Lens with Extended Depth of Focus
Authors: Moshirfar Majid , Stapley Seth R. , Corbin Wyatt M. , Bundogji Nour , Conley Matthew , Darquea Ines M. , Ronquillo Yasmyne C. , Hoopes Phillip C.
Published: December 2022

This study compares the visual and refractive performance of the TECNIS Synergy (DFR00V-DFW150-225-300-375) multifocal intraocular lens (IOL) and the AcrySof IQ PanOptix (TFAT00-30-40-50-60) multifocal IOL. Patients who underwent phacoemulsification and cataract extraction and received either a multifocal Synergy or PanOptix IOL were included. Monocular uncorrected distance (UDVA), intermediate (UIVA), near (UNVA), and corrected distance (CDVA) visual acuities were assessed at three and six months postoperatively. Secondary outcome measures of photic phenomena were also assessed. A total of 140 patients (224 eyes) were included in this study, with 69 patients (105 eyes) in the Synergy group and 71 patients (119 eyes) in the PanOptix group. There were no statistically significant differences in UIVA or CDVA measurements across all time points. When assessing UDVA, at three months postoperatively, there were more eyes in the PanOptix group with vision better than 20/40 (p = 0.04). At three and six months postoperatively, the average UNVA was superior in the Synergy group (p = 0.01, 0.002). While the Synergy group reported more night vision disturbances at one and three months (p = 0.01, 0.03), the PanOptix group had more night vision disturbances at six months (p = 0.02). Although not statistically significant, the AcrySof IQ PanOptix multifocal IOL demonstrated better UDVA and UIVA sooner postoperatively than the TECNIS Synergy multifocal IOL. The Synergy IOL provided statistically better UNVA compared to the PanOptix IOL at three and six months postoperatively. Synergy patients reported more early photic phenomena than PanOptix patients, which later diminished.
Specific Application Features of Ti-TiN-(Ti,Cr,Al)N, Zr-ZrN-(Zr,Mo,Al)N, and ZrHf-(Zr,Hf)N-(Zr,Hf,Cr,Mo,Al)N Multilayered Nanocomposite Coatings in End Milling of the Inconel 718 Nickel-Chromium Alloy
Authors: Vereschaka Alexey , Milovich Filipp , Andreev Nikolay , Migranov Mars , Alexandrov Islam , Muranov Alexander , Mikhailov Maxim , Tatarkanov Aslan
Published: December 2022

This article discusses the specific application features of end mills with Ti-TiN-(Ti,Cr,Al)N, Zr-ZrN-(Zr,Mo,Al)N, and ZrHf-(Zr,Hf)N-(Zr,Hf,Cr,Mo,Al)N multilayer nanocomposite coatings during the machining of the Inconel 718 nickel–chromium alloy. The hardness, fracture resistance during scratch testing, structure, and phase composition of the coatings were studied. The tribological properties of the samples were compared at temperatures of 400–900 °C. Tests were conducted to study the wear resistance of the coated end mills during the milling of the Inconel 718 alloy. The wear mechanism of the end mills was studied. It was found that in comparison with the other coatings, the Zr-ZrN-(Zr,Mo,Al)N coating had the highest hardness and the lowest value of the adhesion component of the coefficient of friction at high temperatures. However, the Zr-ZrN-(Zr,Mo,Al)N coating exhibited good resistance to cracking and oxidation during the milling of the Inconel 718 alloy. Based on the above, the Zr-ZrN-(Zr,Mo,Al)N coating can be considered a good choice as a wear-resistant coating for the end milling of the Inconel 718 alloy.
Life-Saver or Undertaker: The Relationship between Primary Cilia and Cell Death in Vertebrate Embryonic Development
Authors: Pfirrmann Thorsten , Gerhardt Christoph
Published: December 2022

The development of multicellular organisms requires a tightly coordinated network of cellular processes and intercellular signalling. For more than 20 years, it has been known that primary cilia are deeply involved in the mediation of intercellular signalling and that ciliary dysfunction results in severe developmental defects. Cilia-mediated signalling regulates cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, migration, etc. Another cellular process ensuring proper embryonic development is cell death. While the effect of cilia-mediated signalling on many cellular processes has been extensively studied, the relationship between primary cilia and cell death remains largely unknown. This article provides a short review on the current knowledge about this relationship.
Effects of Spinal Cord Injury Site on Cardiac Autonomic Regulation: Insight from Analysis of Cardiovascular Beat by Beat Variability during Sleep and Orthostatic Challenge
Authors: Guaraldi Pietro , Malacarne Mara , Barletta Giorgio , Scisciolo Giuseppe De , Pagani Massimo , Cortelli Pietro , Lucini Daniela
Published: December 2022

Purpose: The goal of this study on Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) patients with cervical or thoracic lesion was to assess whether disturbances of ANS control, according to location, might differently affect vagal and sympatho-vagal markers during sleep and orthostatic challenge. We analyzed with linear and nonlinear techniques beat-by-beat RR and arterial pressure (and respiration) variability signals, extracted from a polysomnographic study and a rest–tilt test. We considered spontaneous or induced sympathetic excitation, as obtained shifting from non-REM to REM sleep or from rest to passive tilt. We obtained evidence of ANS cardiac (dys)regulation, of greater importance for gradually proximal location (i.e., cervical) SCI, compatible with a progressive loss of modulatory role of sympathetic afferents to the spinal cord. Furthermore, in accordance with the dual, vagal and sympathetic bidirectional innervation, the results suggest that vagally mediated negative feedback baroreflexes were substantially maintained in all cases. Conversely, the LF and HF balance (expressed specifically by normalized units) appeared to be negatively affected by SCI, particularly in the case of cervical lesion (group p = 0.006, interaction p = 0.011). Multivariate analysis of cardiovascular variability may be a convenient technique to assess autonomic responsiveness and alteration of functionality in patients with SCI addressing selectively vagal or sympathetic alterations and injury location. This contention requires confirmatory studies with a larger population.
Design and Implementation of 3-D Measurement Method for Container Handling Target
Authors: Mi Chao , Huang Shifeng , Zhang Yujie , Zhang Zhiwei , Postolache Octavian
Published: December 2022

In the process of automatic container terminal loading and unloading, the three-dimensional attitude of the container affects the security of loading and unloading operations, so the three-dimensional attitude positioning of the container is very important. In this paper, a visual non-contact measurement method is used to realize the real-time orientation of the three-dimensional attitude of the container. First, the container corner is coarsely positioned by a small-scale deep learning network. Secondly, the precise position of the container keyhole is obtained by the secondary positioning of the container corner through the traditional image processing algorithm, and the container posture is measured in three dimensions by combining the physical motion model of the container during loading and unloading. After testing, unlike previous measurement methods, the measurement accuracy of this method met the requirements of automatic loading and unloading of container terminals, and the measurement time met the requirements of real-time measurement.
Response of Magnetic Minerals to the Mid-Brunhes Climate Event Recorded in Deep-Sea Sediments of the West Philippine Sea
Authors: Cai Yun , Li Yibing , Jiang Xingyu
Published: December 2022

The Mid-Brunhes Event (MBE) was one of the most important global climate events since 800 ka. The deep-sea palaeoceanographic changes in the Western Pacific might have been more sensitive to the MBE and they have not been well documented yet. In this study, we investigated a deep-sea core collected from the Western Philippine Sea and then obtained the magnetism record since around 900 ka. The MBE signal in the deposition process was derived from the concentration-dependent (χ, χARM and SIRM) and the grain-size-dependent magnetic parameters (χARM/χ and χARM/SIRM). Across the MBE, the content of magnetic minerals and the fluctuation of the grain size decreased. Both the content and grain-size indices calculated from magnetic parameters are well correlated with the glacial–interglacial alternations and display a major shift at the MBE. The decreased grain size of magnetic minerals may be associated with the flourishing biota in the tropical Pacific during interglacial intervals. The accumulation of magnetic minerals in the Western Philippine Sea was mainly regulated by the sediment accumulation rate, which may be related to the shoaling of the carbonate compensation depth. Overall, this study expanded the environmental magnetism record for the MBE, suggested a new possible influence of this critical climatic event on the deep-sea deposition process in Western Philippine Sea and inferred the interactions between various environmental systems on glacial–interglacial timescales.
Research on Maneuverability Prediction of Double Waterjet Propulsion High Speed Planing Craft
Authors: Sun Hua-Wei , Yang Jing-Lei , Liu Bo , Li Hong-Wei , Xiao Jia-Feng , Sun Han-Bing
Published: December 2022

A mathematical model for predicting the maneuvering motion of a ship is constructed, using a planing craft with dual waterjet propulsion as the object of study. This model is based on the standard approach of the MMG (Maneuvering Modeling Group) and uses the Runge–Kutta algorithm to solve the differential equations. For the simulation of the turning and Z-shape maneuvering motion, the RANS equation is first solved using the program STAR-CCM + and then the PMM motion of the hull is simulated using the overlapping grid approach to derive the hydrodynamic derivative. The established method for predicting the ship’s maneuverability is feasible, as shown by the calculated results, which agree well with those obtained using data from the sea trials. This method was used to simulate the rudder rotation and Z-shape motion of the planing craft at medium and high speeds to predict the maneuverability index.
Integrated Geomechanical and Digital Photogrammetric Survey in the Study of Slope Instability Processes of a Flysch Sea Cliff (Debeli Rtič Promontory, Slovenia)
Authors: Furlani Stefano , Bolla Alberto , Hastewell Linley , Mantovani Matteo , Devoto Stefano
Published: December 2022

This work presents an integrated study approach that combines the results of a geomechanical survey with data obtained using digital photogrammetry (DP), to assess slope instability processes affecting a sea cliff at the Debeli Rtič promontory (Slovenia). The investigated cliff is 4–18 m-high and is made up of an alternation of sandstones and marlstones belonging to the Flysch Formation of Trieste, which is Eocene in age. The studied cliff was subjected to localized slope failures that occurred in the past and is currently subject to frequent rock collapses, thus resulting in its partial and episodic retreat. Field evidence acquired through a traditional survey was integrated with outputs of the DP technique based on 1399 images that were collected using both a commercial unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and a mobile phone (MP). UAV-derived images were useful for performing rock mass structure analysis in the upper part of the investigated cliff, where the traditional survey was not possible due to hazardous operating conditions. In addition, the use of a MP was observed to be a useful tool for the rapid collection of images at the toe of unsafe marine cliff environments. This study highlights that UAV-DP and MP-DP techniques can only be effective if the outcomes obtained from the 3D model reconstruction are validated by direct measurements acquired by means of the traditional field survey, thus avoiding improper or even erroneous results while enlarging the amount of data and the area of investigation. The study approach presented herein allowed for the assessment of slope instabilities affecting the Flysch Sea cliff, whose retreat is caused by the combined action of marine erosion and slope gravitational processes.
Evaluating Water and Carbon Retention in a Low-Order, Designed River Corridor
Authors: Cockburn Jaclyn , Scott Alex , Villard Paul
Published: December 2022

As urban residential areas expand into the areas around cities, especially in North America, these areas were previously forested or were converted to agricultural uses (e.g., cropping, grazing). Many of the pre-existing channels were modified prior to residential area expansion and required modification and/or restoration in order for development permits to be granted. These pre-existing channels are often low-order, semi-ephemeral streams with hydrological and geomorphological functions and provide aquatic-terrestrial habitat and ecological linkages. Once restored, these corridors provide important services to the entire river network related to flood-risk mitigation, sediment trapping, and are potential carbon (via particulate organic matter) sinks. This research evaluated water flow and carbon trapping within a low-order tributary of East Morrison Creek in Southern Ontario, Canada in the years immediately following construction. Water level records (5 September and 30 November 2019, and 1 April and 30 November 2020) show that even in its early development this new system was functioning efficiently. Sediment samples taken throughout the 2020 field season determined particulate organic matter was being stored, especially in features where flow was attenuated. Channel roughness imposed by large wood structures promote organic matter deposition within bed sediments and were expected to increase over time. These findings highlight the importance of spatial heterogeneity imposed by the design features used in this reach-scale restoration and serve as a valuable ‘proof of concept’ for future work along the urban-rural interface of expanding cities.
Effects of Tillage and Winter Cover Management in a Maize Soybean Rotation on Soil Bacterial and Fungal Community Composition
Authors: Narayana Nisarga , Kingery William , Jacobs Alayna , Allison Jon , Ganapathi Shanmugam Shankar
Published: December 2022

The abundance and distribution of soil microbial populations, i.e., microbial diversity is widely promoted as a key tenant of sustainable agricultural practices and/or soil health. A common approach to describing microbial diversity is phylogenetic analysis with high-throughput sequencing of microbial DNA. However, owing to the tremendous amounts of data generated, a continuing effort is required to better assess the effects of agricultural management systems on soil microbial diversity. Here, we report on the combined effects of management systems on bacterial and fungal diversity in a loessal agricultural soil located in north-central Mississippi, USA. Amplicon sequencing was performed using 16S rRNA-gene and ITS2 from soil samples collected from a three-year study with combinations of maize-soybean crop rotation, tillage practices, and winter vegetative covers. Differences were found in microbial fungal β-diversity among the management systems, with distinct clustering patterns for no-tillage combined with either winter weeds or bare-fallow. Management systems showed a significant influence on soil pH and bulk density, which were positively correlated with fungal community composition. Developments in the description and interpretation of soil microbial diversity will contribute to a more accurate understanding of its role in the various functions and processes important to agricultural soil management.
Water-Sensitive Urban Plan for Lima Metropolitan Area (Peru) Based on Changes in the Urban Landscape from 1990 to 2021
Authors: Ramirez Herrera Andrea Cristina , Bauer Sonja , Peña Guillen Victor
Published: December 2022

Lima is the second-largest capital of the world located in a desert and already faces water scarcity. Here, more than 30% of the population is supplied by only 2.2% of the national water resources. The urbanization process has an informal nature and occurs at a very accelerated rate. These new settlements lack water infrastructure and access to other services. The objectives of this study are to quantify changes in the urban landscape of Lima Metropolitan Area from 1990 to 2021 to propose a water-sensitive urban plan by detecting changes, urbanization trends and identifying alternative water sources. The trend suggests a future constant increment of the urban areas, diversification of the landscape and more equally distributed land cover. Lima has more disconnected settlements and more complex shapes of urban patches nowadays. The landscape is also more mingled, but cracked. Overall, the trend is to become more disaggregated, demanding small and scattered water solutions. The WSUP includes the implementation of treatment plants in new multi-family buildings, hybrid desalination plants at the coast and parks with fog collectors on the hills. Additionally, these solutions will require the beneficiary community and the local authorities to work together in the planning and maintenance.
Agricultural Land Concentration in Estonia and Its Containment Possibilities
Authors: Rasva Marii , Jürgenson Evelin
Published: December 2022

Land is essential to livelihoods, so it is hard to overstate its strategic significance for well-being and prosperity. It has been detected that farm size greatly influences agricultural sustainability from the viewpoints of the economy, environment, and society. Land concentration is negatively affecting the development of rural communities. Similar to other European countries, Estonia is undergoing agricultural land concentration. One way to stop the further concentration of agricultural land is to set an upper limit to land acquisition (similar to that in Latvia and Lithuania). This paper aimed to determine what kind of regulations concerning agricultural land use and ownership Estonia needs to restrain land concentration. Four sources of data were used for this research: statistical data from Statistics Estonia, the data for the land holdings of agricultural producers from the Estonian Agricultural Registers and Information Board, data from the Land Registry and available literature. The outcome of the study confirmed that Estonia requires policy direction and regulations for the agricultural land market, that would help to lighten the impact of land concentration in rural areas in the long run, similar to several other European countries.
Use of Magnesium Silicate Contaminated with Organic Compounds in Ceramic Materials as a Pore Modifier
Authors: Pranckevičienė Jolanta , Pundienė Ina
Published: December 2022

This study investigated the use of organic compound waste (OCW) contaminated magnesium silicate/diatomite in ceramics. Substituting part of the clay (between 5 and 20 wt.%) with OCW modifies a pore structure and enhances the ceramic product’s thermal conductivity, density, and frost resistance. Prepared samples were tested at 1000–1060 °C temperatures and their structural parameters and Maage factor, useful for frost resistance prediction, were evaluated. Results show that OCW modifies the porous structure and improves the insulating properties of the ceramic body. Increasing OCW content up to 15% in the ceramic body decreases density by up to 15.0%, and thermal conductivity by up to 42.5%, because of the modified pore structure. According to structural parameters calculation, the higher frost resistance can be predicted for ceramic bodies containing 5–10% of OCW, according to Maage factor calculation ceramic bodies containing 5–20% of OCW are frost resistant. Designed ceramic products can be attractive for use in construction due to improved energy efficiency and reduced energy consumption in buildings due to their low thermal conductivity, satisfactory mechanical strength, and sustainability based on predicted frost resistance.
3D Environment Mapping with a Variable Resolution NDT Method
Authors: Feng Yang , Gao Zhiyuan , Zhang Jinghan , Shi Hang , Xie Yangmin
Published: December 2022

With the continuous development of the 3D LiDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) mapping algorithm and its application in various fields, the size of the point cloud map becomes a bottleneck that limits the 3D LiDAR mapping algorithm from running for a long time. In this paper, a 3D LiDAR mapping method based on scan-to-map and variable resolution NDT (normal-distributions transform) registration is proposed. When updating the global map, variable resolution processing can reduce the size of the global map and improve the accuracy of map construction. In addition, the size of the map created by the mapping algorithm is proportional to the size of the space and does not grow infinitely over time. The mapping experiments using a rotating LiDAR in the room, corridor, and outdoor environments show that the algorithm has higher mapping accuracy and smaller map size than without considering the variable resolution strategy. The experimental results of the map construction for a long time in an appropriate test area illustrate that the map built by the algorithm does not grow infinitely with time in the fixed space. In summary, by adjusting the map resolution adaptively according to the curvature of different areas in the 3D LiDAR mapping process, the proposed variable resolution strategy can maintain the size of the global map almost proportional to the size of the space. Moreover, the mapping accuracy can be improved as well.
Dynamical Analysis of a One- and Two-Scroll Chaotic System
Authors: Liu Meng , Wu Zhaoyan , Fu Xinchu
Published: December 2022

In this paper, a three-dimensional (3D) autonomous chaotic system is introduced and analyzed. In the system, each equation contains a quadratic crossproduct. The system possesses a chaotic attractor with a large chaotic region. Importantly, the system can generate both one- and two-scroll chaotic attractors by choosing appropriate parameters. Some of its basic dynamical properties, such as the Lyapunov exponents, Lyapunov dimension, Poincaré maps, bifurcation diagram, and the chaotic dynamical behavior are studied by adjusting different parameters. Further, an equivalent electronic circuit for the proposed chaotic system is designed according to Kirchhoff’s Law, and a corresponding response electronic circuit is also designed for identifying the unknown parameters or monitoring the changes in the system parameters. Moreover, numerical simulations are presented to perform and complement the theoretical results.
Reinforcement Learning-Based Delay-Aware Path Exploration of Parallelized Service Function Chains
Authors: Huang Zhongwei , Li Dagang , Wu Chenhao , Lu Hua
Published: December 2022

The parallel processing of the service function chain (SFC) is expected to provide better low-delay service delivery, because it breaks through the bottleneck of traditional serial processing mode in which service delay increases linearly with the SFC length. However, the provision of parallelized SFC (PSFC) is much more difficult due to the unique construction of PSFCs, inevitable parallelization overhead, and delay balancing requirement of PSFC branches; therefore, existing mechanisms for serial SFC cannot be directly applied to PSFC. After a comprehensive review of recent related work, we find that traffic scheduling mechanisms for PSFCs is still lacking. In this paper, a delay-aware traffic scheduling mechanism (DASM) for PSFCs is proposed. DASM first transforms PSFC into several serial SFCs by releasing the upstream VNF constraints so as to handle them independently while keeping their parallel relations. Secondly, DASM realizes delay-aware PSFC traffic scheduling based on the reinforcement learning (RL) method. To the best knowledge of the authors, this is the first attempt to address the PSFC traffic scheduling problem by transforming them into independent serial SFCs. Simulation results show that the proposed DASM outperforms the advanced PSFCs scheduling strategies in terms of delay balance and throughput.
Improved EDF-Based Tests for Weibull Distribution Using Ranked Set Sampling
Authors: Alghamdi Safar M. , Bantan Rashad A. R. , Hassan Amal S. , Nagy Heba F. , Elbatal Ibrahim , Elgarhy Mohammed
Published: December 2022

It is well known that ranked set sampling (RSS) is superior to conventional simple random sampling (SRS) in that it frequently results in more effective inference techniques. One of the most popular and broadly applicable models for lifetime data is the Weibull distribution. This article proposes different modified goodness-of-fit tests based on the empirical distribution function (EDF) for the Weibull distribution. The recommended RSS tests are compared to their SRS counterparts. For each scheme, the critical values of the relevant test statistics are computed. A comparison of the power of the suggested goodness-of-fit tests based on a number of alternatives is investigated. RSS tests are more effective than their SRS equivalents, according to simulated data.
Dual-Word Embedding Model Considering Syntactic Information for Cross-Domain Sentiment Classification
Authors: Lu Zihao , Hu Xiaohui , Xue Yun
Published: December 2022

The purpose of cross-domain sentiment classification (CDSC) is to fully utilize the rich labeled data in the source domain to help the target domain perform sentiment classification even when labeled data are insufficient. Most of the existing methods focus on obtaining domain transferable semantic information but ignore syntactic information. The performance of BERT may decrease because of domain transfer, and traditional word embeddings, such as word2vec, cannot obtain contextualized word vectors. Therefore, achieving the best results in CDSC is difficult when only BERT or word2vec is used. In this paper, we propose a Dual-word Embedding Model Considering Syntactic Information for Cross-domain Sentiment Classification. Specifically, we obtain dual-word embeddings using BERT and word2vec. After performing BERT embedding, we pay closer attention to semantic information, mainly using self-attention and TextCNN. After word2vec word embedding is obtained, the graph attention network is used to extract the syntactic information of the document, and the attention mechanism is used to focus on the important aspects. Experiments on two real-world datasets show that our model outperforms other strong baselines.
A Branch-and-Bound Algorithm for the Bi-Objective Quay Crane Scheduling Problem Based on Efficiency and Energy
Authors: Li Hongming , Li Xintao
Published: December 2022

Motivated by the call of the International Maritime Organization to meet the emission targets of 2030, this study considers two important practical aspects of quay crane scheduling: efficiency and energy consumption. More precisely, we introduce the bi-objective quay crane scheduling problem where the objective is to minimize the vessel’s completion time and the crane’s energy consumption. This is done by formulating a bi-objective mixed-integer programming model. A branch-and-bound algorithm was developed as the exact solution approach to find the full set of Pareto-optimal solutions. We consider (i) various lower bounds for both objectives, (ii) specific upper bounds, (iii) additional branching criteria, and (iv) fathoming criteria to detect Pareto-optimal solutions. Numerical experiments on benchmark instances show that the branch-and-bound algorithm can efficiently solve small- and medium-sized problems.
An Uncertain Sandwich Impulsive Control System with Impulsive Time Windows
Authors: Chen Huafei , Chen Jia , Qu Dan , Li Kelin , Luo Fei
Published: December 2022

In this paper, we formulate a new system, named the uncertain sandwich impulsive control system with impulsive time windows. The presented system shows that the linear entry matrix of the system is indeterminate. We first investigate the exponential stability of the considered system by linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) and inequalities techniques, then extend the considered system to a more general one and further study the stability of the general system. Finally, numerical simulations are delivered to demonstrate the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Analysis of Spatiotemporal Transmission Characteristics of African Swine Fever (ASF) in Mainland China
Authors: Pei Xin , Li Mingtao , Hu Jianghong , Zhang Juan , Jin Zhen
Published: December 2022

In view of the rapid spread of African swine fever in Mainland China from 2018 to 2019, we used spatiotemporal statistical analysis methods to study the spatiotemporal transmission features of African swine fever. The results reveal that the hot spots of African swine fever were concentrated in some cities in Northeast and Southwest China. Seven spatiotemporal clusters of African swine fever were identified, and the most likely spatiotemporal cluster was located in the Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture of QianNan in Guizhou Province, and the cluster date was from 19 June to 25 June 2019. The first secondary cluster covered five cities (Shenyang, Yingkou, Panjin, Anshan, and Liaoyang) in Liaoning Province from 1 August to 10 October 2018. In addition, from the global and local transmission direction and speed of African swine fever in Mainland China, the spatial transmission speed of ASF was found to be slow from August to October 2018, and fast from February to March 2019. Lastly, the global and local isolation and exposure of sites infected with ASF were calculated in Mainland China to reveal the infection risk of different susceptible sites and time periods.
Comparing Compound Poisson Distributions by Deficiency: Continuous-Time Case
Authors: Bening Vladimir , Korolev Victor
Published: December 2022

In the paper, we apply a new approach to the comparison of the distributions of sums of random variables to the case of Poisson random sums. This approach was proposed in our previous work (Bening, Korolev, 2022) and is based on the concept of statistical deficiency. Here, we introduce a continuous analog of deficiency. In the case under consideration, by continuous deficiency, we will mean the difference between the parameter of the Poisson distribution of the number of summands in a Poisson random sum and that of the compound Poisson distribution providing the desired accuracy of the normal approximation. This approach is used for the solution of the problem of determination of the distribution of a separate term in the Poisson sum that provides the least possible value of the parameter of the Poisson distribution of the number of summands guaranteeing the prescribed value of the (1−α)-quantile of the normalized Poisson sum for a given α∈(0,1). This problem is solved under the condition that possible distributions of random summands possess coinciding first three moments. The approach under consideration is applied to the collective risk model in order to determine the distribution of insurance payments providing the least possible time that provides the prescribed Value-at-Risk. This approach is also used for the problem of comparison of the accuracy of approximation of the asymptotic (1−α)-quantile of the sum of independent, identically distributed random variables with that of the accompanying infinitely divisible distribution.
Robust Tracking Control of Dual-Active-Bridge DC–DC Converters with Parameter Uncertainties and Input Saturation
Authors: Nam Nguyen Ngoc , Kim Sung Hyun
Published: December 2022

This paper proposes a method for robust tracking control synthesis of dual-active-bridge (DAB) DC–DC converters with parameter uncertainties and input saturation. In the proposed method, the nonlinear function of the phase shift ratio is expressed as a control input, and the phase shift ratio is determined by the one-to-one relationship with the control input. Especially, the proposed method is developed with consideration of the input saturation phenomenon that occurs physically in the phase shift ratio of DAB DC–DC converters. Furthermore, based on the proposed method, a set of exponential constrained stabilization conditions for DAB DC–DC converter systems with parameter uncertainties is provided to ensure a fast convergence rate. Finally, to verify the effectiveness of the proposed control method, various simulation results are provided and compared with the well-known improved model phase shift control (IMPSC) and load current feedforward (LCFF) control methods.
Robust Switching Regressions Using the Laplace Distribution
Authors: Lu Kang-Ping , Chang Shao-Tung
Published: December 2022

This paper presents a robust method for dealing with switching regression problems. Regression models with switch-points are broadly employed in diverse areas. Many traditional methods for switching regressions can falter in the presence of outliers or heavy-tailed distributions because of the modeling assumptions of Gaussian errors. The outlier corruption of datasets is often unavoidable. When misapplied, the Gaussian assumption can lead to incorrect inference making. The Laplace distribution is known as a longer-tailed alternative to the normal distributions and connected with the robust least absolute deviation regression criterion. We propose a robust switching regression model of Laplace distributed errors. To advance robustness, we extend the Laplace switching model to a fuzzy class model and create a robust algorithm named FCL through the fuzzy classification maximum likelihood procedure. The robustness properties and the advance of resistance against high-leverage outliers are discussed. Simulations and sensitivity analyses illustrate the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed algorithm. The experimental results indicate that FCL is much more robust than the EM-based algorithm. Furthermore, the Laplace-based algorithm is more time-saving than the t-based procedure. Diverse real-world applications demonstrate the practicality of the proposed approach.
Discriminative Nonnegative Tucker Decomposition for Tensor Data Representation
Authors: Jing Wenjing , Lu Linzhang , Liu Qilong
Published: December 2022

Nonnegative Tucker decomposition (NTD) is an unsupervised method and has been extended in many applied fields. However, NTD does not make use of the label information of sample data, even though such label information is available. To remedy the defect, in this paper, we propose a label constraint NTD method, namely Discriminative NTD (DNTD), which considers a fraction of the label information of the sample data as a discriminative constraint. Differing from other label-based methods, the proposed method enforces the sample data, with the same label to be aligned on the same axis or line. Combining the NTD and the label-discriminative constraint term, DNTD can not only extract the part-based representation of the data tensor but also boost the discriminative ability of the NTD. An iterative updating algorithm is provided to solve the objective function of DNTD. Finally, the proposed DNTD method is applied to image clustering. Experimental results on ORL, COIL20, Yale datasets show the clustering accuracy of DNTD is improved by 8.47–32.17% and the normalized mutual information is improved by 10.43–29.64% compared with the state-of-the-art approaches.
Biological Properties and Health-Promoting Functions of Laminarin: A Comprehensive Review of Preclinical and Clinical Studies
Authors: Karuppusamy Shanmugapriya , Rajauria Gaurav , Fitzpatrick Stephen , Lyons Henry , McMahon Helena , Curtin James , Tiwari Brijesh K. , O’Donnell Colm
Published: December 2022

Marine algal species comprise of a large portion of polysaccharides which have shown multifunctional properties and health benefits for treating and preventing human diseases. Laminarin, or β-glucan, a storage polysaccharide from brown algae, has been reported to have potential pharmacological properties such as antioxidant, anti-tumor, anti-coagulant, anticancer, immunomodulatory, anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, wound healing, and neuroprotective potential. It has been widely investigated as a functional material in biomedical applications as it is biodegradable, biocompatible, and is low toxic substances. The reported preclinical and clinical studies demonstrate the potential of laminarin as natural alternative agents in biomedical and industrial applications such as nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, functional food, drug development/delivery, and cosmeceuticals. This review summarizes the biological activities of laminarin, including mechanisms of action, impacts on human health, and reported health benefits. Additionally, this review also provides an overview of recent advances and identifies gaps and opportunities for further research in this field. It further emphasizes the molecular characteristics and biological activities of laminarin in both preclinical and clinical settings for the prevention of the diseases and as potential therapeutic interventions.
Extracorporeal Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: A Narrative Review and Establishment of a Sustainable Program
Authors: Cassara Chris M. , Long Micah T. , Dollerschell John T. , Chae Floria , Hall David J. , Demiralp Gozde , Stampfl Matthew J. , Bernardoni Brittney , McCarthy Daniel P. , Glazer Joshua M.
Published: December 2022

The rates of survival with functional recovery for out of hospital cardiac arrest remain unacceptably low. Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) quickly resolves the low-flow state of conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CCPR) providing valuable perfusion to end organs. Observational studies have shown an association with the use of ECPR and improved survivability. Two recent randomized controlled studies have demonstrated improved survival with functional neurologic recovery when compared to CCPR. Substantial resources and coordination amongst different specialties and departments are crucial for the successful implementation of ECPR. Standardized protocols, simulation based training, and constant communication are invaluable to the sustainability of a program. Currently there is no standardized protocol for the post-cannulation management of these ECPR patients and, ideally, upcoming studies should aim to evaluate these protocols.
Clinical Outcomes of Enamel Matrix Derivate Used in Surgical and Non-Surgical Treatment of Peri-Implantitis: A Systematic Review of Clinical Studies
Authors: Moldovan Raluca , Mester Alexandru , Piciu Andra , Bran Simion , Onisor Florin
Published: December 2022

Background and objectives: The aim of this systematic review was to assess the available evidence of using enamel matrix derivate in the treatment of peri-implantitis. Materials and methods: Three electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched until August 2022 to identify relevant articles. The inclusion criteria consisted in human clinical studies that reported the use of enamel matrix derivate (EMD) in surgical and non-surgical treatment of peri-implantitis. The risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and for non-RCTs ROBINS-I tool. Results: Clinical studies included were published between 2012 and 2022 and consisted of two randomized clinical trials (RCTs) for non-surgical therapy and two RCTs, three prospective cohort studies, and one retrospective case series in surgical therapy. Due to the heterogeneity of patients’ characteristics and assessment of peri-implant therapy, statistical analysis could not be achieved. Conclusions: The use of EMD indicated a positive effect on both surgical and non-surgical therapy. However, the available literature is scarce, with low evidence in non-surgical approach and modest evidence in surgical approach using EMD. More RCTs with standardize protocols are necessary to evaluate the efficacy of using EMD in both therapies.
Comparative Outcomes of Robotic Radical Prostatectomy in Patients with Locally Advanced Prostate Cancer
Authors: Li Po-I , Chen Szu-Ju , Chen Yung-Hsiang , Chen Wen-Chi , Huang Chi-Ping
Published: December 2022

The effectiveness of radical prostatectomy alone for locally advanced prostate cancer is controversial owing to an increased complication rate and treatment-related morbidity. With technical advances and refinements in surgical techniques, robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) has improved the outcomes of patients with locally advanced prostate cancer. RARP therefore plays a role in the treatment of locally advanced prostate cancer. In this study, we enrolled a total of 76 patients with pathologic stage pT3a, pT3b, pT4, or pN1. All patients were followed from surgery to June 2022, and their characteristics, perioperative outcomes, complications, adjuvant therapies and outcomes were analyzed. The median age of the patients was 69 years, and the initial PSA level was 20.5 (IQR 10.8–31.6) ng/mL. The median operative time was 205 (IQR 182–241) minutes. Sixty-six patients (86.8%) regained continence within 1 year, and the continence rate within 3 years of follow-up was 90.8% (69 patients). The overall survival rate was 100%. Twenty-two patients had BCR, of whom 13 received salvage androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), 2 received salvage external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) alone, and 7 received combined ADT and EBRT. No patient had disease progression to castration-resistant prostate cancer during a median 36 months of follow-up after salvage therapy. Our results suggest that RARP can also decrease tumor burden and allow for accurate and precise pathological staging with the need for subsequent treatment. Therefore, we recommend that RARP represents a well-standardized, safe, and oncologically effective option for patients with locally advanced prostate cancer.
Evaluation of Radiation Exposure Due to Dental Radiographs Taken during Endodontic Treatment Sessions in Young Permanent Teeth
Authors: Akleyin Ebru , Yavuz Yasemin
Published: December 2022

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to retrospectively analyze the duration of treatment and the number of dental radiographs taken during endodontic treatment (endo-t) of young permanent teeth (YPT). Materials and Methods: Age, gender, affected tooth number, apex status, duration of treatment and dental radiographs taken during this period were retrospectively evaluated in pediatric patients aged 6–15 years who presented to the pedodontic department for endo-t of anterior YPT. Data were analyzed with Kruskal Wallis H, Dunn and Pearson chi-square tests. p < 0.05 was accepted as statistically significant in all analyses. Results: Anterior endo-t was initiated in 471 of 9,200 pedodontic patients between the ages of 6 and 15 years who applied to our university. The reason for seeking treatment was caries (8.1%) and trauma (91.9%). It was observed that 59% of the teeth had an open apex and 45.7% had a closed apex. A total of 1893 periapical radiographs (Per-R) and 245 panoramic radiographs (Pan-R) were taken from 471 pediatric patients during the treatment period. Total number of dental radiographs was 2138 with 4.5 per patient. Number of Per-R was lower in patients whose treatment was completed in a single session (p < 0.001). There was no difference in the number of Pan-R with respect to duration of treatment (p = 0.560). Conclusions: In children, the number of Per-R significantly increased with prolonged duration of treatment encompassing multiple sessions for endo-t procedures of anterior YPT, decided based on the apex and lesion status of the affected tooth. Especially in long-term traditional apexification treatments, treatment should be carried out in children with the ALADAIP (As Low As Diagnostically Achievable being Indication-oriented and Patient-specific) principle in mind.