bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Event-triggered Optimal Control for Nonlinear Stochastic Systems via Adaptive Dynamic Programming
Authors: Zhang Guoping , Zhu Quanxin
Published: March 2021

For nonlinear Itˆo-type stochastic systems, the problem of event-triggered optimal control (ETOC) is studied in this paper, and the adaptive dynamic programming (ADP) approach is explored to implement it. The value function of the Hamilton-Jacobi Bellman(HJB) equation is approximated by applying critical neural network (CNN). Moreover, a new event-triggering scheme is proposed, which can be used to design ETOC directly via the solution of HJB equation. By utilizing the Lyapunov direct method, it can be proved that the ETOC based on ADP approach can ensure that the CNN weight errors and states of system are semiglobally uniformly ultimately bounded (SGUUB) in probability. Furthermore, an upper bound is given on predetermined cost function. Speciﬁcally, there has been no published literature on the ETOC for nonlinear Itˆo-type stochastic systems via the ADP method. This work is the ﬁrst attempt to ﬁll the gap in this subject. Finally, the eﬀectiveness of the proposed method are illustrated through two numerical examples.
Influence of Dietary Habits on Depression Among Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Cross-Sectional Study Using KURAMA Cohort Database
Authors: Minamino Hiroto , Katsushima Masao , Hashimoto Motomu , Fujita Yoshihito , Torii Mie , Ikeda Kaori , Isomura Nozomi , Oguri Yasuo , Yamamoto Wataru , Watanabe Ryu , Murakami Kosaku , Murata Koichi , Nishitani Kohei , Tanaka Masao , Ito Hiromu , Uda Miyabi , Nin Kazuko , Arai Hidenori , Matsuda Shuichi , Morinobu Akio , Inagaki Nobuya
Published: March 2021

BackgroundAlthough depression is one of the most common comorbidities of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and is known as a critical influence on RA remission rates, there is little knowledge regarding a possible therapeutic strategy for depression in a RA population. Most recently, clinical evidence of dietary improvement for depression has emerged in a general population, but the relationship between dietary habits and depression has not been investigated in RA. The purpose of this study is to elucidate clinical associations between depression, dietary habits and disease activity/physical function in patients with RA.MethodsA cross-sectional study was performed with 267 female outpatients from the KURAMA database. Using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), we classified the participants into three groups by depression state, and their characteristics were compared. Using the 20-items on the self-reported food frequency questionnaire, we investigated the relationship between dietary habits and depression or anxiety, adopting a trend test and a multivariate standardized linear regression analysis for the HADS score as a dependent variable.ResultsClassification of the depressive state revealed that current disease activity and physical dysfunction (28-Joint RA Disease Activity Score-C-reactive protein (DAS28-CRP) as well as the health assessment questionnaire disability Index (HAQ)) were significantly increased according to the stage of depression. Trend analysis identified three of 20 foods, i.e., fish, vegetables and fruit, the consumption of which was inversely associated with the depression score. Furthermore, multiple linear regression analysis revealed that the depression score was negatively associated with frequent fish intake (> 3 times per week) (Estimate -0.53, p = 0.033) as well as remission of HAQ (Estimate -0.88, p ≤ 0.001). For the anxiety score, none of the dietary habits showed any correlation in the multiple regression analysis.ConclusionDepression state assessed by HADS score was significantly and independently associated with both fish intake frequency and remission of physical dysfunction in an RA population. Modification of dietary habits, such as that by increased fish consumption, may have a beneficial effect on the depression state in RA patients.
Safety, Pharmacokinetics, and Preliminary Activity of CDK4/6 Inhibitor FCN-437c in Chinese Female Patients with HR+HER2- Advanced Breast Cancer (ABC) From Phase Ia Study
Authors: Zhang Jian , Wang Xiaojia , Wang Xian , Hui Aimin , Wu Zhuli , Tian Ling , Xu Changjiang , Yang Yuchen , Zhang Wenjing , Hu Xichun
Published: March 2021

Purpose: This is a phase Ia, first-in-human study aiming to assess the safety, maximum tolerated dose (MTD), pharmacokinetic (PK) and anti-tumor activity of FCN-437c, CDK4/6 inhibitor, as monotherapy in patients with HR+HER2- ABC (advanced breast cancer) who failed standard of care. Methods: Regular 3+3 dose escalation design was utilized with starting dose of 50 mg per day for 3 weeks on -1 week off treatment in a 28-day cycle. Seventeen eligible female patients with HR+HER2- ABC were enrolled at different dose levels: 50 mg (n = 3), 100 mg (n = 3), 200 mg (n = 3), 300 mg (n = 6) and 450 mg (n = 2). Results: Two patients in the 450 mg dose group experienced DLT of grade 4 thrombocytopenia and neutropenia respectively, and no DLT was observed in other dose levels. The most frequently reported TEAEs was hematological, including leukopenia (94.1%), neutropenia (88.2%), anemia (64.7%) and thrombocytopenia (47.1%). Major grade 3-4 TEAEs were neutropenia and leukopenia, occurring in 11 (64.7%) and 8 (47.1%) patients, respectively. The exposure increased almost in proportion to given dose ranging from 50 to 200 mg. At multiple dose levels from 200 to 450 mg, there appeared to be a trend of saturation. MTD was determined to be 300 mg. Of 15 measurable patients, nine (60.0%) had the best response of stable disease and no objective response was observed. Conclusions: FCN-437c has established an acceptable safety profile with no unexpected signals compared to other CDK4/6 inhibitors. (NCT04488107, Jul 13th 2020)
A Formation Mechanism and Tribological Properties of PTFE Transfer Film
Authors: Wang Hai , Qi Xiaowen , Dong Yu , Fan Bingli , Liu Changxin , Zhang Yan
Published: March 2021

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), as one of the most widely used solid lubricating materials, is thought to be very efficient at forming transfer film because of terrific low intermolecular force. This work investigates the tribological properties of PTFE transfer film under dry friction, and further explores its formation process and evolution mechanism. The friction coefficient is the lowest when the transfer film thickness is in range of 8-12 μm. An evaluation method for transfer film is proposed. The results show that the quality of the transfer film is closely related to the test load and velocity. This method is expected to be a general evaluation method for polymer transfer film, which can further directly evaluate the wear state of polymers, and even directly predict the tribological properties of polymers and abrasion life.
Changes in Patellar Morphology Following Soft Tissue Surgical Correction of Recurrent Patellar Dislocation in Children With Low-grade Trochlear Dysplasia
Authors: Dong Conglei , Wang Yanyang , Zhao Chao , Niu Jinghui , lin Wei , Chen Xiaobo , Xu Chenyue , Wei Maozheng , Wang Fei
Published: March 2021

Purpose: Studies indicated that patellofemoral joint dysplasia could be caused by patellar dislocation. The purpose of the study was to investigate the changes in patellar morphology following soft tissue surgical correction of recurrent patellar dislocation in children with low-grade trochlear dysplasia.Methods: The prospective study was performed between November 2007 and December 2012. Finally, 25 cases, with the mean age of 8.4 years (range from 7 to 10 years), were admitted to our study. All patients were diagnosed as bilateral recurrent patellar dislocation associated with femoral trochlear dysplasia. The knee that had suffered an injury or dislocated most frequently was treated with medial patellar retinacular plasty (Group S). The contralateral knee, which served as a control was treated conservatively (Group C). Axial CT scans were undertaken in all patients to assess the patellar morphological characteristics on a particular axial image which was established at the point with the greatest patellar width based on measurements preoperatively and at the final follow-up.Results: Preoperatively, there were no statistically significant differences between the patellar morphology in the two groups (P>0.05). Many radiological parameters of patellar morphology were significantly different between the two groups at the final follow-up, including well-known parameters, such as the mean patellar width (Group S, 40.58 mm (SD 1.26); Group C, 36.41 mm (SD 1.17); p < 0.001), the mean patellar thickness (Group S, 11.59 mm (SD 0.74); Group C, 9.38 mm (SD 0.56); p < 0.001) and the mean wiberg index (Group S, 0.54 (SD 0.06); Group C, 0.72 (SD 0.08); p < 0.001). Little known parameters such as the ratio of length of lateral patella to medial patella (Group S, 1.26 (SD 0.17); Group C, 1.69 (SD 0.21); p < 0.001), which is a measurement of facet asymmetry. However, the wiberg angle was not significantly different between the two groups (Group S, 128.63° (SD 9.05); Group C, 125.47° (SD 13.96); p > 0.05) at the final follow-up.Conclusions: The patellar morphology can be significantly improved by early (before epiphyseal closure) soft tissue surgical correction in children with patellar instability associated with low-grade femoral trochlear dysplasia (Dejour A and B).
Incidence and Survival Outcomes in Patients with Synchronous Lung Metastases Upon Initial Metastatic Breast Cancer Diagnosis in China
Authors: Lin Shaoyan , Mo Hongnan , Li Yiqun , Guan Xiuwen , Chen Yimeng , Wang Zijing , Yuan Peng , Wang Jiayu , Luo Yang , Fan Ying , Cai Ruigang , Li Qiao , Chen Shanshan , Zhang Pin , Li Qing , Ma Fei , Xu Bing-He
Published: March 2021

Background: The incidence and survival of breast cancer lung metastases (BCLM) patients at initial diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer (MBC) remain poorly identified in China.Methods: We attained clinical data of 3161 MBC patients initially diagnosed between December 1991 and September 2019 from the China National Cancer Center and finally included 2263 MBC patients in this study, among which 809 patients presented with lung metastases at first MBC diagnosis. The risk factors for BCLM were determined using multivariate logistic regression analysis and the prognostic factors of BCLM patients were assessed by univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses.Results: Patients with triple-negative subtype (42.3%) harbored the highest incidence proportions of lung metastases. Age ≥ 50 years, ECOG 2 and triple-negative subtype were remarkably associated with higher incidence of lung metastases, while N3, liver and bone metastases were significantly correlated with lower odds of lung metastases at diagnosis. The median survival of BCLM patients was 41.7 months, with triple-negative subtype experiencing the worst prognosis of 26.8 months. ECOG 2, N3, HR-/HER2+ subtype, triple-negative subtype, liver metastases and bone metastases were significantly correlated with poor survival of BCLM patients.Conclusions: Our study provides essential information on clinicopathological features, incidence and survival outcomes of BCLM patients at initial diagnosis of MBC in China.
Risk Factors of Unintended Return to the Operating Room in Adult Spinal Deformity
Authors: Chan Lung , Li Yue , Hai Yong , Liu Yuzeng , Zhang Yangpu
Published: March 2021

Background
To evaluate the incidence and risk factors associated with unintended return to the operating room in adult spinal deformity after spinal deformity corrective surgery.
Methods
Retrospect of 141 adult spinal deformity patients in a single institution between January 2017 to December 2019. Inclusion criteria enrolled 18 to 80 years old patients who diagnosed congenital/idiopathic/syndromic/acquired spinal deformity underwent posterior corrective spinal surgery. The surgical details and complications were recorded. The rate of unintended return to the operating room (UIROR) during hospitalization was examined, and the risk factors of unintended return to the operating room were investigated via multivariate analysis.
Results
This is a retrospective study. One hundred and forty-one patients underwent spinal deformity surgery with a mean age of 31.8 years (range 18–69 years) were studied. The rate of unintended return to the operating room was 10.64% (15/141). Two of 15 patients had twice unintended surgery during hospitalization (13.33%). The most principal complication was neurologic deficit (73.3%), Six of 15 postoperative present implants deviation causes severe lower limbs radiating pain (40%). The multivariate analysis shows higher apical vertebral rotation (AVR > grade Ⅱ, odds ratio [OR] = 9.534; 95% CI = 1.983–45.839; P = .005), obesity (OR = 11.776; 95% CI = 1.400-98.851; P = .023), and previous neurological symptom (OR = 7.748; 95% CI = 2.051–29.277; P = .003) were independent predictors of unintended return to the operating room.
Conclusion
Postoperative neurologic deficit and short-term implant malposition are essential causes of unintended return to the operating room in adult spinal deformity patients. Preoperative factors such as higher AVR (> Grade Ⅱ), obesity, and previous neurological symptom may significantly increase the risk of morbidity in UIROR. Spine surgeons should be alert to these risk factors and require adequate preoperative evaluations to reduce the incidence of unintended return to the operating room.
Adjuvant Chemoradiotherapy Versus Radical Surgery After Transanal Endoscopic Microsurgery for Intermediate Pathological Risk Early Rectal Cancer: a Single Center Experience With Long-term Surveillance
Authors: Li Yunhao , Qiu Xiaoyuan , Shi Weikun , Lin Guole
Published: March 2021

BackgroundThe choice of subsequent treatment for intermediate risk rectal tumors after Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) between adjuvant chemoradiotherapy and total mesorectal excision (TME) is controversial. The present study aimed to compare survival and functional outcome between these two strategies. Methods This retrospective study included intermediate risk early rectal cancer patients after TEM in our center between 2010 and 2017. Patients were divided into adjuvant treatment and TME groups. Intermediate risk was defined as pT1 with lymphovascular invasion, poor differentiation or large diameter (3-5 cm) or pT2 with small diameter(less than 3cm). The study was based on follow-up data on survival and results from distributed validated scales for functional outcome. ResultsPostoperative overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were comparable between groups (p = 0.619 and p = 0.712 respectively). Pathological T stage was an independent risk factor for DFS (HR 3.09, 95% CI 1.66 - 4.18, p = 0.044). Anorectal symptoms, such as buttock pain, was significantly prevalent in the TME group (p = 0.030). TME group presented with poorer bowel function, including stool urgency (p < 0.001), bowel frequency (p = 0.016), severity of LARS (p = 0.039) and total LARS score (p = 0.040). Except for a lower score of vaginal lubrication in TME group than the adjuvant treatment group, sexual function was similar between the groups. ConclusionLike TME, adjuvant chemoradiotherapy is an alternative option for intermediate risk early rectal cancer after TEM and is associated with similar survival outcomes and better bowel function.
Heterogeneity in spontaneous sleep arousals: positive and negative links with early amyloid-beta and cognition
Authors: Chylinski Daphne , Egroo Maxime Van , Narbutas Justinas , Koshmanova Ekaterina , Berthomier Christian , Berthomier Pierre , Brandewinder Marie , Salmon Eric , Bahri Mohamed , Bastin Christine , Collette Fabienne , Phillips Christophe , Maquet Pierre , Muto Vincenzo , Vandewalle Gilles
Published: March 2021

Recent literature is pointing towards a tight relationship between sleep quality and amyloid-beta (Aβ) accumulation, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Sleep arousals are considered to induce sleep disruption, and though their heterogeneity has been suggested, their correlates remain to be established. We classified arousals in sleep of 100 healthy older individuals according to their association with muscular tone increase (E+/E-) and sleep stage transition (T+/T-), and show differences in EEG oscillatory compositions across arousal types. We found that T + E- arousals, which interrupt sleep stability, were positively correlated with Aβ burden in brain regions earliest affected by AD neuropathology. By contrast, more prevalent T-E + arousals, upholding sleep continuity, were associated with lower cortical Aβ burden, and better cognition. We provide empirical evidence that spontaneous arousals are diverse and differently associated with brain integrity and cognition. Sleep arousals may offer opportunities to transiently synchronise distant brain areas, akin to sleep spindles.
VGLL4 Promotes EV71 Virus Proliferation and Accelerates the Apoptosis of Infected RD Cells
Authors: Wang Shengyu , Sun Xin , Qiao Junhua , He Cancan , Tian Langfei , Chen Yaping
Published: March 2021

Enterovirus 71 (EV71) is one of the major pathogens causing hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) which affects public health increasingly. Apoptosis plays an important role in EV71 infection, but the molecular mechanism involved in EV71 induced apoptosis is not completely clear. VGLL4 is a multifunctional protein in host cells, which has been studied in tumor and cell apoptosis, but has not been reported in pathogen. In this study, the mammalian eukaryotic expression plasmid of VGLL4 fused with HA tag (HA-VGLL4) and the model of overexpression VGLL4 RD cells were successfully constructed. The effect of VGLL4 on the proliferation of EV71 was detected by western-blot assay, fluorescence quantitative PCR and cytotoxicity assay (CCK assay), and the mechanism of its effect on the proliferation of the virus was researched. The experimental results showed that VGLL4 may promote the replication of EV71 by promoting the apoptosis of infected cells. VGLL4 can be an important target for prevention and treatment of EV71 infection.
Gradient iterative algorithm for rational models based on Gram-Schmidt orthogonalization method
Authors: Pu Yan , Chen Jing , Yang Yongqing , Zhu Quanmin
Published: March 2021

An improved gradient iterative algorithm, termed as Gram-Schmidt orthogonalization based gradient iterative algorithm, is proposed for rational models in this paper. The algorithm can obtain the optimal parameter estimates in one iteration for the reason that the information vectors obtained by using the Gram-Schmidt orthogonalization method are independent of each other. Compared to the least squares algorithm and the traditional gradient iterative algorithm, the proposed algorithm does not require the matrix inversion and eigenvalue calculation, thus it can be applied to nonlinear systems with complex structures or large-scale systems. Since the information vector of the rational models contains the latest output that is correlated with the noise, a biased compensation Gram-Schmidt orthogonalization based gradient iterative algorithm is introduced, by which the unbiased parameter estimates can be obtained. Two simulated examples are applied to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed algorithm.
Type-2 Fuzzy Modeling and Control of Nonlinear Steer-by-Wire Systems With Actuator Fault and Event-Triggered Communication
Authors: Ma Bingxin , Wang Yongfu
Published: March 2021

This paper proposes the adaptive fuzzy modeling and control method for steer-by-wire (SbW) systems with uncertain nonlinearity, time-varying disturbance, actuator fault, and event-triggered communication. First, the adaptive interval type-2 fuzzy logic system (IT2 FLS) is developed to modeling the uncertain nonlinearity of SbW systems. The Lyapunov-based adaptive law can guarantee the modeling performance of IT2 FLS. Then, considering the limited communication channel bandwidth of the controller-area-network (CAN), the time-varying disturbance, and actuator fault of SbW systems, an event-triggered sliding mode control is proposed for SbW systems. The chattering phenomenon of the sliding mode control system can be eliminated by using the nested adaptive technology. Theoretical analysis shows that the practical finite-time stability of the closed-loop system can be achieved while avoiding the Zeno-behavior. Finally, numerical simulations and vehicle experiments are given to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Surveillance of Borrelia Miyamotoi-Carrying Ticks and Genomic Analysis of Isolates in Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Gaowa H , Wulantuya W , Sato Kozue , Liu Dan , Cui Yunhong , Yin Xuhong , Zhang Lihua , Li Hong , Wang Tingfu , Liu Rongxin , Wu Lijing , Lu Saixia , Gao Ting , Zhang Zitong , Cao Minzhi , Wang Guodong , Li Chunpu , Yan Dacheng , Ohashi Norio , Ando Shuji , Kawabata Hiroki
Published: March 2021

Background: Borrelia miyamotoi is a newly described relapsing fever spirochete transmitted by Ixodid tick species. Little is known about the prevalence of B. miyamotoi infections in humans and ticks in Inner Mongolia, China. Therefore, we investigated the prevalence of B. miyamotoi in Ixodes persulcatus, and we aimed to isolate B. miyamotoi from I. persulcatus ticks from four regions of Greater Hinggan, Inner Mongolia, China.Methods: During May to June of 2016-2019, host-seeking adult ticks of I. persulcatus were collected from vegetation. Genomic DNA was prepared from half of each tick body for PCR template, and the remaining half was used to cultivate B. miyamotoi in BSK-M medium. We employed quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) to detect Borrelia DNA in the ticks and to calculate the prevalence of B. miyamotoi and other borreliae infections. For the characterization of isolated B. miyamotoi, we performed draft genome sequencing and multi-loci sequencing analysis (MLSA). Results: A total of 2,656 I. persulcatus adult ticks were collected. The over-all prevalence of relapsing fever (RF) borreliae in ticks was 5.0% (134/2,656) and that of Lyme disease (LD) borreliae was 43.8% (1,164/2,656). Co-infection by RF and LD borreliae was observed in 63 ticks (2.4%). Ticks that were positive for RF borreliae on qPCR were subjected to glycerophosphodiester diester phosphodiesterase gene (glpQ) PCR amplification and sequencing, through which we identified the RF borreliae specimens as B. miyamotoi. In this study, we successfully isolated the B. miyamotoi strain Hetao-1 from I. persulcatus, and a draft genome sequence was obtained for the isolate. Genomic sequencing revealed the strain Hetao-1 genome to be approximately 906.1 kbp in length (28.9% average GC content), and MLSA analysis identified the strain as ST633, which was previously reported in Japan and Mongolia.Conclusion: We detected B. miyamotoi from I. persulcatus ticks collected in Inner Mongolia, and successfully isolated a B. miyamotoi strain. To our knowledge, this is the first study to culture a B. miyamotoi isolate in China. The data on the prevalence of B. miyamotoi and other borreliae in I. persulcatus ticks will be fundamental for future epidemiological studies of B. miyamotoi disease in Inner Mongolia.
Association of TB treatment with pregnancy complications: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Protocol
Authors: Kruger Stefanie Johanna Maria , PHOSWA WENDY
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Tuberculosis is a worldwide health risk factor, especially among immunocompromised groups such as in pregnant women. Diagnosis for TB is complex and appropriate initiation of treatment must be timely and cannot be postponed. This systematic review aims to assess the impact of TB drug exposure linked with pregnancy complications.Methods: Electronic databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, Elsevier and the Cochrane Library) will be screened that covers original articles published from 2010 to 2020, using medical subject headings (MeSH) and free text searches. Population study of TB-infected pregnant women with control being non-infected pregnant women, defined by maternal age between 15 ≤ 44 years, which reported pregnancy outcomes after exposure to TB treatment during pregnancy will be included. PICOS for research question eligibility, PRISMA-P guidelines and flow diagram will be adhered to and assessed by two independent reviewers. Software manager Zotero v5.0.81 will be used to eliminate duplicates and assess eligibility criteria.Ethics and dissemination: We anticipate finding a large number of studies reporting on the impact of TB drugs on the incidence of pregnancy complications which, once summarised, will be useful to establishing the link between TB drugs and pregnancy complications induced by these drugs. The protocol for the systematic review will be registered in PROSPERO. The study will be disseminated electronically and in print. It will also be presented to conferences related to TB and pregnancy.Trial registration: PROSPERO CRD42021226233; Registered on 14 January 2021
The 3D Instance Segmentation Network for Synapse Reconstruction from Serial Electron Microscopy Images
Authors: Liu Jing , Hong Bei , Xie Qiwei , Liu Chao , Han Hua
Published: March 2021

Background The synapse is the key part where neurons communicate with each other. Synaptic plasticity plays a vital role in study and memory. Due to the rapid development of electron microscopy (EM) technology, imaging synapses at nanometer scale possible become possible. However, the automation and effectiveness of the synapse detection algorithm have not yet been satisfactory. The most commonly used method is a two-step solution, where first binary segmentation masks are obtained and then reconstruction results are generated by finding connected components. Results In this paper, a novel 3D instance segmentation network which can predict the synapses end to end was proposed. Then, it was also proved that the network can exploit features consistent with the biological structures of synapses by visualizing the network layer. Furthermore, our method was evaluated on two public datasets, and experimental results demonstrated the effectiveness of our proposed method. Conclusion The proposed method provided a fast and accurate solution to detecting synapses from serial section EM images. Besides, a block-wise inference strategy which adapts well to large scale EM images was introduced, and it can also help neuroscientists achieve labor-free analysis and quantification of synapses.
The Decline of Early Marriage and Motherhood in Latin America: Decomposing Second Demographic Transition Characteristics
Authors: Butler Zackery
Published: March 2021

BackgroundUntil recently, marriage was nearly universal, and occurred early in life for women in Latin America. A significant proportion of women were both married and mothers before reaching adulthood. Girls married under the age of 18 are victims of Child Early and Forced Marriage, a violation of their human rights. The changes predicted by Second Demographic Transition theory may have reduced the prevalence of early marriage and motherhood as well as decoupled the institution of marriage from motherhood. This article contributes to the understanding of early marriage and motherhood in Latin America by describing the relationship between these characteristics and the emergence the Second Demographic Transition among young women from 1980-2010. MethodsI use CEPALSTAT data on marriage and motherhood in Latin America to calculate statistics on marriage and motherhood for young women in the three youngest age groups, those ages 10–14, 15–19, and 20–24. Using these statistics, I assess changes in three classic SDT dimensions (Postponement of Marriage, Postponement of Motherhood, and increased Unmarried Motherhood). I then decompose the Overall Motherhood Prevalence Rate to determine which contributed more to the changes observed, the postponement of marriage, or the postponement of motherhood. ResultsSustained decreases in the prevalence of marriage and motherhood were observed for all groups, but also an increase in unmarried mothers. Declines in marriage were largely responsible for declines in motherhood rates for all age groups in all decades. The changes observed in the data correspond to the SDT predictions and indicate that postponement of marriage is driving the postponement of motherhood for young women in Latin America. Reducing the prevalence of CEFM has played a major role in reducing early motherhood during this transition.ConclusionThis article provides a novel approach to evaluating the impact of the SDT on early marriage and motherhood. It shows that the prevalence of CEFM declined dramatically during this period, although the absolute numbers of child brides increased. The results provide evidence of postponement of marriage and motherhood, the decoupling of marriage and motherhood, and the potential for sustained fertility decline in Latin America.
Estimation of arm kinematics in stroke survivors using wearable sensors
Authors: Nie Jeffrey Z. , Nie James W. , Hung Na-Teng , Cotton R. James , Slutzky Marc W.
Published: March 2021

BackgroundStroke is the leading cause of long-term disability in the United States, often resulting in upper extremity (UE) motor impairment. Most existing outcome metrics of UE function in rehabilitation are insensitive to change or subject to observer bias. There is growing interest in using movement kinematics to measure UE motor function, since they can provide high-resolution, quantitative measurements. However, measuring arm kinematics in stroke survivors, particularly in the hospital or clinic, can be challenging for traditional optical tracking systems due to non-ideal environments, expense, and a limited ability to perform required calibration poses. The aim of this study was to develop a general framework for accurate measurements of wrist position during reaching movements in people with stroke using relatively inexpensive wearable sensors.MethodsWe developed and presented two methods, one using inertial measurement units (IMUs) and using virtual reality (Vive) sensors, that practically estimate wrist position with respect to the shoulder. We then assessed the estimation accuracies of each method during a 3D reaching task by using a Vicon motion capture system. We also demonstrated each methods ability to track two kinematic metrics, sweep area and smoothness, in chronic stroke survivors. We computed Pearson correlation coefficients when appropriate.ResultsCompared to a traditional optical system, both systems tracked with high accuracy during 3D reaching, with mean absolute errors of 1.00 ± 0.80 cm and 1.09 ± 0.51 cm for the IMU and Vive, respectively. Furthermore, both methods’ estimated kinematics highly agreed with each other (p < 0.01).ConclusionsThese methods may be useful for developing kinematic metrics to evaluate stroke rehabilitation outcomes in both laboratory and clinical environments.Trial RegistrationThe clinical trial (ClinicalTrial.gov ID: NCT03401762) was registered on January 17, 2018 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03401762) and posted on January 1, 2018. The trial is scheduled to be completed by August 2023. The trial was updated on December 2, 2020 and is currently recruiting.
Indications and Outcomes of Emergency Obstetric Hysterectomy; a 5-Year Review at the Bafoussam Regional Hospital, Cameroon
Authors: Mbakwa Mbakwa Rickeins , Tendongfor Nicholas , Ngunyi Yannick Lechedem , Ngek Ekongefeyin Sintieh Nchinda , Alemkia Frank , Egbe Thomas Obinchemti
Published: March 2021

Background: Emergency Obstetric Hysterectomy (EOH) is removal of the uterus due to life threatening conditions within the puerperium. This life saving intervention is associated with life threatening complications. In our setting, little is known on EOH. Objectives: To determine the prevalence, indications and outcomes of emergency obstetric hysterectomy while comparing both postpartum hysterectomy and caesarean hysterectomy. Methods: A 5-year hospital-based retrospective cohort study of medical records of patients who underwent emergency obstetric hysterectomies was carried out at the Bafoussam Regional Hospital (BRH) from 1 st January 2015 to 31 st December 2019. Cases were classified as caesarean hysterectomy (CH) or postpartum hysterectomy (PH). Epidemiological data, indications, and complications of EOH were collected and analyzed in EPI-INFO 7.2.2.1. The chi-squared test was used to compare the two groups, and bivariate analysis was used to identify indicators of adverse outcomes of EOH. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05 Results: There were 30 cases of emergency obstetric hysterectomy (24 caesarean hysterectomies and 6 postpartum hysterectomies), giving a prevalence rate of 3.75 per 1000 deliveries. The most common indication for CH, was intractable postpartum haemorrhage and uterine rupture (33.33% each), while abnormal placentation (50%) was commonly indicated for PH. Anaemia (both groups) (p=0.013) and sepsis (PH group only, 33.33%) (p=0.03) were the most statistically significant complications of EOH respectively. Absence of blood transfusion prior to surgery (p=0.013) and prolonged surgery lasting 2 or more hours (p=0.04), were significantly associated with a negative clinical outcome. Conclusion: The prevalence of EOH is high. There were no differences in the sociodemographic profile, risk factors and indications of both groups. PH group was more likely to develop sepsis as complication. Lack of blood transfusion prior to surgery and prolonged surgeries were significantly associated to complication. Meticulous care and timely recognition of negative prognostic factors of delivery as well as those of EOH will help improve maternal outcomes of pregnancy.
Analysis of Computational Complexity and Processing Time Evaluation of the Protocol Stack in 5G New Radio
Authors:   Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics (TUSUR), Kryukov Ya. V. , Pokamestov D. A. ,   Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics (TUSUR), Rogozhnikov E. V. ,   Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics (TUSUR), Novichkov S. A. ,   Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech), Lakontsev D. V. ,   Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)
Published: March 2021

Currently, an active deployment of radio access networks for mobile communication systems 5G New Radio is being observed. The architecture of networks is developing rapidly, where significant part of the functions is performed in a virtual cloud space of a personal computer. The computing power of a personal computer must be sufficient to execute network protocols in real time. To reduce the cost of deploying 5G NR networks, the configuration of each remote computer must be optimally matched to the scale of a particular network. Therefore, an urgent direction of research is the assessment of the execution time of the 5G NR protocol stack on various configurations of computers and the development of a mathematical model for data analysis, approximation of dependencies and making recommendations. In this paper, the authors provide an overview of the main 5G NR network architectures, as well as a description of the methods and tools that can be used to estimate the computational complexity of the 5G NR protocol stack. The final section provides an analysis of the computational complexity of the protocol stack, obtained during the experiments by colleagues in partner institutions.
Fuzzy Coordinated Control of an Electric Drive System of a Four-Wheel Mobile Robot
Authors:   St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, Meshkovskiy E. O. , Kurmashev A. D. ,   St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, Frolov V. Ya. ,   St. Petersburg Polytechnic University
Published: March 2021

This paper presents the construction of a fuzzy system controller of a coordinated control system of an electric drive system for a four-wheel mobile robot with two differential drive units. The structure of this system regulator, the rule base, and the expression of the relationship between its elements are shown. In the article the authors show the results of computer experiments in graphs of trajectory error for different configurations of the robot and the system controller coefficient values.
Fiber-optic Synchronization and Data Transmission Subsystem of Multichannel Phased Array
Authors:   JSC NPO «Almaz», Svetlichniy Y. A.
Published: March 2021

The article deals with the practical aspects of synchronization and data transferring in multichannel phased array systems, especially in systems with big antenna dimensions. In multichannel passed array antenna commonly used an optical analog signals distribution scheme for RF and heterodyne signals and wired interfaces for control and digital data. For modern digital antennas the data transferring and synchronization method, based on digital fiber optic channels, was presented. The schemes, constructions, and algorithms of the method are described. The method was realized as SDR system using FPGA with soft-processor core. For data transferring the 8b/10b code is used. The following result of experiment are discussed: digital optical lines are resistant to signals distortions, can transfer big data massive with minimal delay, have excellent synchronization capabilities at quite low cost.
An integrated software architecture for the pollution-based real-time control of urban drainage systems
Authors: Romero Luis , Joseph-Duran Bernat , Sun Congcong , Meseguer Jordi , Cembrano Gabriela , Guasch Ramón , Martínez Montse , Muñoz Eduard , Puig Vicenç
Published: March 2021

This paper presents a complete methodology for the development of an integrated software architecture, which can achieve a closed-loop application between the integrated real-time control (RTC) and a virtual reality simulation for the urban drainage system (UDS). Quality measurements are considered during the simulation and optimization process. Model predictive control (MPC) and rule-based control (RBC) are the two main RTC methods embedded in this architecture. The proposed integration environment allows the different software components to efficiently and effectively communicate and work in a system-wide way, as well as to execute all the necessary steps regarding input parameter management, scenario configuration and results extraction. The proposed approaches are implemented into a pilot based on the Badalona UDS (Spain). Results from different scenarios with individual control approaches and rain episodes are evaluated and discussed.
Structural and Dynamic Analysis of the Human Capital Health Component of the Socio-Economic System
Authors: Ketova K. , Vavilova D. D.
Published: March 2021

Purpose of the research.Human capital in the modern world is the primary factor in ensuring the progressive development of society. The most important component of human capital is the component of health, which affects the quality of labor resources and labor productivity in the region. The purpose of this research is to study the development trends of the health component of human capital, using the example of the socio-economic system of one of the regions of the Russian Federation – the Udmurt Republic, to study the structure and dynamics of the specified object of research.

Materials and methods.Statistical methods and techniques for studying the development of regional socio-economic processes as an information-supported element in making managerial decisions in strategic planning were used instrumental in this research. The information resource is based on official statistical data of institutions and departments of the Russian Federation and the data from periodicals, as well as using expert assessments in their information and analytical materials. The research base is the socio-economic processes of the last two decades in the Udmurt Republic. A numerical analysis of the structure and dynamics of the state of health of the population is carried out on the example of the Udmurt Republic, using primary modern data reflected in the system of state statistical accounting for the period 2000-2018.

Results.Calculations have shown that the quality of the health component of human capital in the Udmurt Republic has been declining in recent decades. The share of healthy people in the region in the working age group of the population 15-72 years old decreased from 59.8% in 2000 to 42.1% in 2018. At the same time, the proportion of people with chronic diseases increased: 33.2% in 2000 and 48.5% in 2018. In general, the share of people with disabilities in the total population of the age group 15-72 years old increased from 7.0% to 9.4%. The general level of health of the population is declining at an average annual rate of 0.4 percentage points. This situation is due to both the aging factor of the population and the general trend of deteriorating health of the population in middle ages.

Conclusion.The revealed and analyzed trends in the work of the structure and dynamics of the human capital health component of the population in socio-economic system indicate a decrease in the rate of positive influence of human capital on economic dynamics and the labor market. The analysis showed the emergence of the need to create additional conditions to reduce the level of general morbidity and disability. The results obtained indicate the need to increase the volume of funding for the health care system in order to expand the scale of involvement of the population in a healthy lifestyle, develop a preventive health care system, improve the availability and quality of medical care.
Ovarian Hyperresponse Following the Sole Administration of GnRH
Agonist
Authors: Chen Cheng , Geng Lan , Hou Zhenhui , Liu Dan , Meng Fanhua , Ma Wenmin , Xia Xi
Published: March 2021

Background :

The gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) has gained widespread popularity of achieving pituitary suppression before ovarian stimulation with exogenous gonadotropins in assisted reproductive technology protocols. However, a very small part of patients may develop ovarian hyperresponse after the sole administration of GnRHa without gonadotropins.

Case report:

A 32-year-old female diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome presented for her second IVF cycle in our reproductive center. Twenty-eight days after 3.75mg triptorelin was administrated on day 2 of her menstrual cycle, bilateral ovaries were significantly enlarged and presented multiple cystic masses. The hormone profile was as follows: E2＞4870pg/ml, P 13.19ng/ml, FSH 14IU/L, and LH 10.77IU/L. The patient felt symptoms of mild ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. In the subsequent IVF treatment cycle, antagonist protocol was performed. It showed that follicles developed slowly and exogenous gonadotropins were used for 13 days. Finally, seven oocytes were obtained and only one blastocyst graded 4BC formed.

Conclusion:

Ovarian hyperstimulation following the sole administration of GnRHa can be occurred, but the mechanism is still not yet clear. Antagonist protocol may be an alternative fertility strategy, but the risk of poor embryo quality and low pregnancy rate of transplantation should be warned.
Advances in Early Detection of Colorectal Cancer: A Focus on Non-invasive Biomarkers
Authors: El Kadmiri Nadia
Published: March 2021

Background:

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer
worldwide. Currently, colonoscopy remains the gold standard diagnostic test for CRC detection.
Nonetheless, this technique is invasive and expensive. Remarkable ongoing strategies are focusing
on the development of affordable methods to diagnose CRC at earlier stages. The introduction of
suitable noninvasive, sensitive and specified diagnostic tests for early CRC detection by employing
biomarker analysis seems to be a fundamental need to reduce the numbers of unnecessary colonoscopies.
In this review, we provide an overview of single- and multi-panel biomarkers (Genomic
markers, transcriptome markers, proteomic markers, inflammatory markers, and microbiome markers)
encompassing noninvasive tests in blood and stool for early CRC detection.

Methods:

A bibliographic search using PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and EBSCOhost
databases was performed to find relevant published studies over the last 6 years. Forty-three pertinent
studies were included in this review.

Results:

The primary outcome highlights the sensitivity and specificity of single diagnostic biomarkers
studied in blood or stool. The secondary outcome reveals the sensitivity and specificity of
the biomarkers panel (combinations) in blood or stool. While some markers show better performance,
others are not suitable for screening purposes.

Conclusion:

There is a need to adjust experimental and analytical tests that can interfere with a robust
result to replace or supplement those markers that are currently in use. Nevertheless, robust
verification and validation with large clinical cohorts are needed for successful noninvasive tests
that can fulfill the role of colonoscopy.
NF-κB1 Intronic Region Polymorphisms as Risk Factor for Head and Neck Cancer in HPV-Infected Population from Pakistan
Authors: Sarwar Sumaira , Tareen Muammad Usman , Sabir Maimoona , Sultan Aneesa , Malik Salman A.
Published: March 2021

Background:

Head and neck cancer (HNC) develops due to a number of risk
factors, including infection of Human Papillomavirus (HPV). The genetic predisposition
also plays an important role in deregulating different signaling pathways including the
NF-KB pathway. Certain polymorphisms are reported to affect the NF-kB pathway
genes.

Objectives:

The present research was conducted to study the association of HPV with
NF-KB1 (p50) gene polymorphisms in HNC patients of the Pakistani population.

Methods:

Genomic DNA from HNC tumors samples was extracted using the Exgene
SV DNA extraction Kit. Allele-specific PCR and direct sequencing were done for analysis
of NF-κB1 SNPs 94ins/del (rs28362491), rs1598858 and rs4648068.

Results:

The genotypes AGrs1598858, AGrs4648068 and GGrs4648068 were associated with
significantly increased risk of head and neck cancer in studied population. Furthermore
the HNC cases with genotypes AGrs1598858 and GGrs4648068 displayed growing risk of HPV
related cancers. Promotor region SNP 94ins/del (rs28362491) was not detected in
studied population. Tobacco use, lymph nodes involvement and poorly differentiated
tumors were positively associated with HPV induced cancers.

Conclusion:

It is the first comprehensive study from Pakistan, to evaluate the
polymorphic variants of NF-κB1. Genotypes AGrs4648068, GGrs4648068, and AGrs1598858 of
NF-κB1 gene are associated with increased risk of head and neck cancers in the studied
HPV infected Pakistani population. It can be concluded that HPV infection, involvement
of lymph nodes and tobacco use can act synergetic and add up in modulating HPV
induced HNC with intronic SNPs of NF-κB1 gene in Pakistani population.