bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Hystero-salpingography and Hysterosalpingo-Contrast Sonography for tubal patency testing: technical success, pain perception, side effects and complications
Authors: Maxim Anita Roxana , Gligor Ovidiu Horia , Badea Radu Ion
Published: March 2021

Aims: The aim of this study was to compare technical success and tolerability between hysterosalpingography (HSG) and hysterosalpingo-contrast ultrasonography (HyCoUs) as a first-line evaluation method in a single fertility center. Material and methods: The study included 56 infertile women: 27 patients underwent HSG and 29 patients underwent HyCoUs. Pain perception was measured by means of an 11-point visual analog scale (VAS) and the Stacy score. Side-effects, technical aspects, complications and variable correlations were documented. Results: The median VAS scale was 5 (4;6) for HSG and 1 (1;2) for HyCoUs. The median Stacy score was 2 (1;3) for HSG and 1 (0;1) for HyCoUs. The difference in pain perception was statistically significant for both pain scores (p<0.001). All patients undergoing HyCoUs reported a visual analog (VAS) pain score of <5 and 59.3% of patients undergoing an HSG reported a score of >5. Increased pain scores showed a statistically significant association with duration and total volume of substance infused. The type of procedure and volume infused were independently associated with the VAS scale. In the HSG group, 14.8% (4) of patients reported a vagal effect (p<0.001), one patient requiring hospitalization. No vagal effects were reported following HyCoUs and the method was technically successful in 100% (29) of cases. HSG was successful in 88.9% (24) of cases. Conclusions: HyCoUs is a well-tolerated procedure with reduced frequency of adverse effects. Low pain perception is strongly correlated with a low volume infused. It is non-invasive and efficient in rendering good quality images.
Superior Physiological Adaptations After a Microcycle of Short Intervals Versus Long Intervals in Cyclists
Authors: Rønnestad Bent R. , Øfsteng Sjur J. , Zambolin Fabio , Raastad Truls , Hammarström Daniel
Published: March 2021

Purpose: To compare the effects of a 1-week high-intensity aerobic-training shock microcycle composed of either 5 short-interval sessions (SI; n = 9, 5 series with 12 × 30-s work intervals interspersed with 15-s recovery and 3-min recovery between series) or 5 long-interval sessions (LI; n = 8, 6 series of 5-min work intervals with 2.5-min recovery between series) on indicators of endurance performance in well-trained cyclists. Methods: Before and following 6 days with standardized training loads after the 1-week high-intensity aerobic-training shock microcycle, both groups were tested in physiological determinants of endurance performance. Results: From pretraining to posttraining, SI achieved a larger improvement than LI in maximal oxygen uptake (5.7%; 95% confidence interval, 1.3–10.3; P = .015) and power output at a blood lactate concentration of 4 mmol·L−1 (3.8%; 95% confidence interval, 0.2–7.4; P = .038). There were no group differences in changes of fractional use of maximal oxygen uptake at a workload corresponding to a blood lactate concentration of 4 mmol·L−1, gross efficiency, or the 1-minute peak power output from the maximal-oxygen-uptake test. Conclusion: The SI protocol may induce superior changes in indicators of endurance performance compared with the LI protocol, indicating that SI can be a good strategy during a 1-week high-intensity aerobic-training shock microcycle in well-trained cyclists.
From the Playing Fields of Rugby and Eton: The Transnational Origins of American Rugby and the Making of American Football
Authors: Burns Adam
Published: March 2021

Some studies date the origins of US intercollegiate football—and, by extension, the modern game of American football—back to a soccer-style game played between Princeton and Rutgers universities in 1869. This article joins with others to argue that such a narrative is misleading and goes further to clarify the significance of two “international” fixtures in 1873 and 1874, which had a formative and lasting impact on football in the United States. These games, contested between alumni from England’s Eton College and students at Yale University, and between students at Canada’s McGill University and Harvard University, combined to revolutionize the American football code. Between 1875 and 1880, previous soccer-style versions of US intercollegiate football were replaced with an imported, if somewhat modified, version of rugby football. It was the “American rugby” that arose as a result of these transnational exchanges that is the true ancestor of the gridiron game of today.
Immune cell control of nutrient absorption
Authors: Talbot Jhimmy , Littman Dan R.
Published: March 2021

Intestinal γδ T cells regulate a gut epithelial cell program for dietary sugar uptake
Sensor Domain of Histidine Kinase VxrA of Vibrio cholerae: Hairpin-Swapped Dimer and Its Conformational Change
Authors: Tan Kemin , Teschler Jennifer K. , Wu Ruiying , Jedrzejczak Robert P. , Zhou Min , Shuvalova Ludmilla A. , Endres Michael J. , Welk Lucas F. , Kwon Keehwan , Anderson Wayne F. , Satchell Karla J. F. , Yildiz Fitnat H. , Joachimiak Andrzej
Published: March 2021

V. cholerae
has a dynamic life cycle, which requires rapid adaptation to changing external conditions. Two-component signal transduction (TCS) systems allow
V. cholerae
to sense and respond to these environmental changes.
Heterogeneous Catalyst Based on Phosphine-Containing Organic Polymer for Hydroformylation of Octene-1
Authors: Gorbunov D. N. , Nenasheva M. V. , Matsukevich R. P. , Terenina M. V. , Kardasheva Yu. S. , Karakhanov E. A.
Published: March 2021

A phosphine-containing porous polymer (TPDB), and a rhodium catalyst based on
it, were synthesized. Proceeding from the relevant TEM, NMR, IR spectroscopy,
and XPS data obtained, it was assumed that both the Rh(I) complexes and the
Rh(0) nanoparticles that are stabilized in the polymer pores act as the
catalyst’s active phase. The size of the nanoparticles (2–6 nm) is consistent
with that of the polymer pores. The catalyst was tested in a model reaction of
octene-1 hydroformylation at 2.0 MPa (CO : H2 = 1 : 1) in
the temperature range of 60–120°C. It was demonstrated that the catalyst can be
used repeatedly, and its activity remains constant from the third cycle of its
use (aldehyde yield about 30% for 5 h, n/iso 2.5).
The Delay in Cavity Formation in the Intrusive Mode of Coalescence of a Freely Falling Drop with a Target Liquid
Authors: Chashechkin Yu. D. , Ilinykh A. Yu.
Published: March 2021

The dynamics of a cavity formed in the intrusive mode of coalescence of a freely falling drop flowing smoothly into a liquid have been traced for the first time by the methods of photo and video registration. The cavity begins to form when the bottom part of the drop submerges, when the fluid coalescence line contracts to the center of the flow, and, simultaneously with the annihilation of the drop surface, the surface of the target liquid is restored. In this case, the orientation of ligaments (thin trickles), formed in the vicinity of the contact line changes. At the initial phase, they are directed outward and distribute the transmitted momentum and energy of the drop over the entire surface of the intrusion. Retraction of the coalescence line holds the transmitted energy and momentum of the drop in the contact patch. If the kinetic energy of the falling drop noticeably exceeds the potential surface energy, the cavity begins to form at the initial contact of the fluids and deepens in the course of the entire coalescence process, capturing the drop matter.
Spontaneous pneumothorax as a clinical manifestation of neurofibromatosis type 1
Authors: Lorentzen Tine , Madsen Hanne , Lausten-Thomsen Marie Josée Zareh , Bygum Anette
Published: March 2021

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a genetic disorder affecting the skin, nervous system, eyes and bones. Pulmonary involvement is unknown to many physicians. Yet, patients may be affected by lung bullae and cysts, which represent an increased risk for secondary spontaneous pneumothorax (SSP). We present a 56-year-old patient with a pathogenic variant of theNF1gene, who suffered from NF1 with lung manifestations and recurrent SSP. It is essential to identify the patients having an increased risk of developing SSP as preventive surgery seem to decrease the risk of new events. Pneumothorax can be a clinical manifestation of NF1 but is not yet widely acknowledged as such.
Methodological issues in economic evaluations of emergency transport systems in low-income and middle-income countries
Authors: Lilford Richard , Nepogodiev Dmitri , Chilton Peter J , Watson Samuel I , Erlangga Darius , Diggle Peter , Girling Alan J , Sculpher Mark
Published: March 2021

A recent systematic review identified few papers on the economic evaluation of systems for emergency transport of acutely ill or injured patients. In addition, we found no articles dealing with the methodological challenges posed by such studies in low-income or middle-income countries. We therefore carried out an analysis of issues that are of particular salience to this important topic. This is an intellectual study in which we develop models, identify their limitations, suggest potential extensions to the models and discuss priorities for empirical studies to populate models. First, we develop a general model to calculate changes in survival contingent on the reduced time to treatment that an emergency transport system is designed to achieve. Second, we develop a model to estimate transfer times over an area that will be served by a proposed transfer system. Third, we discuss difficulties in obtaining parameters with which to populate the models. Fourth, we discuss costs, both direct and indirect, of an emergency transfer service. Fifth, we discuss the issue that outcomes other than survival should be considered and that the effects of a service are a weighted sum over all the conditions and severities for which the service caters. Lastly, based on the above work, we identify priorities for research. To our knowledge, this is the first study to identify and frame issues in the health economics of acute transfer systems and to develop models to calculate survival rates from basic parameters, such as time delay/survival relationships, that vary by intervention type and context.
Is studying medicine good for your health? Long-term health outcomes of a cohort of clinical medicine graduates in England and Wales in the ONS Longitudinal Study
Authors: Shelton Nicola , Duke-Williams Oliver , van der Erve Laura , Britton Jack , Xun Wei
Published: March 2021

Objective

To quantify the potential protective effect on health associated with study of a clinical medicine degree.

Design

Prospective population-based cohort data collected at census and linked over time: cohort born before 1976 and survived to 2011. Subgroup analysis on those who reported having a degree at 1991 census.

Setting

England and Wales population-based, including institutions.

Participants

159 116 men and 174 062 women; 13 390 men with degrees and 8143 women with degrees.

Main outcome measure

Self-reported general health in 2011 based on logistic regression analysis.

Results

Male graduates had 92% higher odds of having good or very good health than male non-graduates after adjustment for age and socioeconomic position (CI 1.82 to 2.03). Female graduates had 85% higher odds of having good or very good health than female non-graduates after adjustment for age and socioeconomic position (CI 1.73 to 1.98). Male clinical medicine graduates had 45% higher odds of having good or very good health than male humanities graduates after adjustment for age and socioeconomic position (CI 1.09 to 1.92). Male physical sciences graduates also had higher odds of having good or very good health than male humanities graduates after adjustment for age and socioeconomic position, but life sciences and social science graduates did not. There were no significant differences by degree subject for women.

Conclusions

Male graduates in clinical medicine have higher odds of good self-reported health. Knowledge of medicine may confer a health advantage for men above that of other degrees.
Impact of a Pozzi tenaculum forceps use on the success rate of intrauterine insemination (IUI) : protocol for a randomised control trial
Authors: Dufour Stephanie , Viau Mathieu , Côté Maxime , Lefebvre Jessica , Maheux-Lacroix Sarah , Bergeron Marie-Ève
Published: March 2021

Introduction

A therapeutic option frequently proposed for infertility is to proceed first with intrauterine insemination (IUI) cycles. Little is known on the effect of uterine contractions on IUI success rates. We postulated that uterine contractions may help with sperm migration in the women’s genital tract. Our objective is to compare the efficacy of IUI when performed with and without a tenaculum forceps on the cervix.

Methods and analysis

We are conducting a randomised controlled trial with women aged 18–40 years old, diagnosed with primary or secondary infertility due to endometriosis, mild to moderate male factor, unexplained infertility or ovulatory dysfunction, receiving IUI treatments. On the day of their IUI, women will receive standard care treatment plus or minus the planned use of a Pozzi tenaculum forceps on the cervix. Each of the 800 women will be randomised only once for their first three IUI. They will be randomised in one of the following sequences: tenaculum—no tenaculum—tenaculum or, no tenaculum—tenaculum—no tenaculum. We will compare the live birth rate (primary outcome) and the clinical pregnancy rate (secondary outcome) after IUI treatment. We also plan on assessing global satisfaction of women, pain levels felt during IUI and discrepancies in primary and secondary outcomes in interventions performed by attendings compared with trainees.

Ethics and dissemination

This research project was approved by the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec’s ethics review board (no 2018–4084). Pozzi tenaculum application is associated with mild pain, estimated at 33 on a Visual Analogue Scale ranging from 0 to 100. We plan on publishing an article to present our findings in a peer-reviewed journal as well as presenting the research abstract at conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT03435809.
Metro and elderly health in Hong Kong: protocol for a natural experiment study in a high-density city
Authors: Sun Guibo , Du Yao , Ni Michael Y , Zhao Jianting , Webster Chris
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Public transport accessible to older people may offer a transformative solution to achieving healthy ageing. However, the evidence to support such transport infrastructure modifications is unclear. Previous studies on public transport use and elderly health were mostly observational studies using cross-sectional data. Few studies have examined the before-and-after effects of a new metro, for example, to see if it leads to improved elderly health.

Methods and analysis

We use a new metro line in Hong Kong as a natural experiment to examine the impact of the metro-led public transport intervention on elderly health. In Hong Kong, more than 90% of daily travels are made by public transport. The public transport modifications consist of the new metro line with eight stations and changes in the walking environment and bus services around the stations. We will look at the before-and-after differences in public transport use and health outcomes between elderly participants living in treatment neighbourhoods (400 m walking buffered areas of the new metro stations) and in control groups (living in comparable areas but unaffected by the new metro). Questionnaire-based baseline data were collected in 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic, while some qualitative interviews are ongoing. Amid the pandemic, we conducted a quick telephone-based survey of COVID-19’s potential impact on public transport use behaviours of our elderly cohort in September 2020. Note there is no lockdown in Hong Kong until the writing of the paper (January 2021). After the new metro opens, we will conduct a follow-up survey, tentatively in late 2022. We aim to investigate if the new metro and the associated changes in the built environment have any effects on public transport use behaviours, physical activity and wider health outcomes among the elderly (eg, social inclusion, quality of life, subjective well-being).

Ethics and dissemination

The Human Research Ethics Committee of the University of Hong Kong reviewed and approved the study procedures and materials (reference number: EA1710040). Results will be communicated through scientific papers and research reports.
Effect of COVID-19 lockdown on hospital admissions and mortality in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: interrupted time series analysis
Authors: McIntosh Amy , Bachmann Max , Siedner Mark J , Gareta Dickman , Seeley Janet , Herbst Kobus
Published: March 2021

Objective

To assess the effect of lockdown during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic on daily all-cause admissions, and by age and diagnosis subgroups, and the odds of all-cause mortality in a hospital in rural KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).

Design

Observational cohort.

Setting

Referral hospital for 17 primary care clinics in uMkhanyakude District.

Participants

Data collected by the Africa Health Research Institute on all admissions from 1 January to 20 October: 5848 patients contributed to 6173 admissions.

Exposure

Five levels of national lockdown in South Africa from 27 March 2020, with restrictions decreasing from levels 5 to 1, respectively.

Outcome measures

Changes and trends in daily all-cause admissions and risk of in-hospital mortality before and at each stage of lockdown, estimated by Poisson and logistic interrupted time series regression, with stratification for age, sex and diagnosis.

Results

Daily admissions decreased during level 5 lockdown for infants (incidence rate ratio (IRR) compared with prelockdown 0.63, 95% CI 0.44 to 0.90), children aged 1–5 years old (IRR 0.43, 95% CI 028 to 0.65) and respiratory diagnoses (IRR 0.57, 95% CI 0.36 to 0.90). From level 4 to level 3, total admissions increased (IRR 1.17, 95% CI 1.06 to 1.28), as well as for men >19 years (IRR 1.50, 95% CI 1.17 to 1.92) and respiratory diagnoses (IRR 4.26, 95% CI 2.36 to 7.70). Among patients admitted to hospital, the odds of death decreased during level 5 compared with prelockdown (adjusted OR 0.48, 95% CI 0.28 to 0.83) and then increased in later stages.

Conclusions

Level 5 lockdown is likely to have prevented the most vulnerable population, children under 5 years and those more severely ill from accessing hospital care in rural KZN, as reflected by the drop in admissions and odds of mortality. Subsequent increases in admissions and in odds of death in the hospital could be due to improved and delayed access to hospital as restrictions were eased.
Efficacy of one time per day, single-inhaler indacaterol/glycopyrronium/mometasone in patients with inadequately controlled asthma: post hoc analysis of IRIDIUM study in Asian population
Authors: Sagara Hironori , Barbier Nathalie , Ishii Tsuyoshi , Yoshisue Hajime , Nikolaev Ivan , Hosoe Motoi , Gon Yasuhiro
Published: March 2021

Background and objective

The 52-week IRIDIUM study demonstrated the efficacy of indacaterol acetate/glycopyrronium bromide/mometasone furoate (IND/GLY/MF) versus IND/MF and salmeterol xinafoate/fluticasone propionate (SAL/FLU) in patients with symptomatic asthma, despite long-acting β2-agonist/inhaled corticosteroids (LABA/ICS) medium-dose or high-dose, predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) <80% and at least one exacerbation in the previous year. Here, we present data from a post hoc analysis of the IRIDIUM study in the Asian subpopulation.

Methods

This post hoc analysis evaluated improvements in lung function, asthma control and reduction in asthma exacerbations with IND/GLY/MF medium- (150/50/80 µg) and high-dose (150/50/160 µg) versus IND/MF medium- (150/160 µg) and high-dose (150/320 µg), all one time per day and SAL/FLU high-dose (50/500 µg) two times per day, in Asian patients from the IRIDIUM study.

Results

In total, 258 patients (IND/GLY/MF medium-dose, 52; IND/GLY/MF high-dose, 52; IND/MF medium-dose, 51; IND/MF high-dose, 51; SAL/FLU high-dose, 52) were included. IND/GLY/MF medium- and high-dose showed greater improvement in trough FEV1at week 26 versus respective doses of IND/MF (Δ, 100 mL and 101 mL; both p<0.05, respectively), and SAL/FLU high-dose (Δ, 125 mL; p=0.0189, and 136 mL; p=0.0118, respectively), which were maintained over 52 weeks. Both doses of IND/GLY/MF showed greater improvement in morning and evening peak expiratory flow versus respective doses of IND/MF and SAL/FLU high-dose at week 52. The changes in Asthma Control Questionnaire-7 scores from baseline were comparable in all treatment groups. IND/GLY/MF medium- and high-dose showed greater reductions in severe (34%, 69%), moderate or severe (18%, 54%) and all exacerbations (21%, 34%) compared with SAL/FLU high-dose over 52 weeks.

Conclusion

One time per day, single-inhaler IND/GLY/MF improved lung function, reduced asthma exacerbations and provided comparable asthma control versus IND/MF and SAL/FLU in Asian patients with inadequately controlled asthma despite LABA/ICS. The results of this analysis were consistent with the overall population in the IRIDIUM study.
GD2 redirected CAR T and activated NK-cell-mediated secretion of IFNγ overcomes MYCN-dependent IDO1 inhibition, contributing to neuroblastoma cell immune escape
Authors: Caforio Matteo , Sorino Cristina , Caruana Ignazio , Weber Gerrit , Camera Antonio , Cifaldi Loredana , De Angelis Biagio , Del Bufalo Francesca , Vitale Alessia , Goffredo Bianca Maria , De Vito Rita , Fruci Doriana , Quintarelli Concetta , Fanciulli Maurizio , Locatelli Franco , Folgiero Valentina
Published: March 2021

Immune escape mechanisms employed by neuroblastoma (NB) cells include secretion of immunosuppressive factors disrupting effective antitumor immunity. The use of cellular therapy to treat solid tumors needs to be implemented. Killing activity of anti-GD2 Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) T or natural killer (NK) cells against target NB cells was assessed through coculture experiments and quantified by FACS analysis. ELISA assay was used to quantify interferon-γ (IFNγ) secreted by NK and CAR T cells. Real Time PCR and Western Blot were performed to analyze gene and protein levels modifications. Transcriptional study was performed by chromatin immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter assays on experiments of mutagenesis on the promoter sequence. NB tissue sample were analyzed by IHC and Real Time PCR to perform correlation study. We demonstrate that Indoleamine-pyrrole 2,3-dioxygenase1 (IDO1), due to its ability to convert tryptophan into kynurenines, is involved in NB resistance to activity of immune cells. In NB, IDO1 is able to inhibit the anti-tumor effect displayed by of both anti-GD2 CAR (GD2.CAR) T-cell and NK cells, mainly by impairing their IFNγ production. Furthermore, inhibition of MYCN expression in NB results into accumulation of IDO1 and consequently of kynurenines, which negatively affect the immune surveillance. Inverse correlation between IDO1 and MYCN expression has been observed in a wide cohort of NB samples. This finding was supported by the identification of a transcriptional repressive role of MYCN on IDO1 promoter. The evidence of IDO1 involvement in NB immune escape and its ability to impair NK and GD2.CAR T-cell activity contribute to clarify one of the possible mechanisms responsible for the limited efficacy of these immunotherapeutic approaches. A combined therapy of NK or GD2.CAR T-cells with IDO1 inhibitors, a class of compounds already in phase I/II clinical studies, could represent a new and still unexplored strategy capable to improve long-term efficacy of these immunotherapeutic approaches.
Human CD141+dendritic cells (cDC1) are impaired in patients with advanced melanoma but can be targeted to enhance anti-PD-1 in a humanized mouse model
Authors: Lee Yoke Seng , O'Brien Liam J , Walpole Carina M , Pearson Frances E , Leal-Rojas Ingrid M , Masterman Kelly-Anne , Atkinson Victoria , Barbour Andrew , Radford Kristen J
Published: March 2021

Background

The conventional type 1 dendritic cell subset (cDC1) is indispensable for tumor immune responses and the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapies in animal models but little is known about the role of the human CD141+DC cDC1 equivalent in patients with melanoma.

Methods

We developed a flow cytometry assay to quantify and characterize human blood DC subsets in healthy donors and patients with stage 3 and stage 4 metastatic melanoma. To examine whether harnessing CD141+DCs could improve responses to ICIs in human melanoma, we developed a humanized mouse model by engrafting immunodeficient NSG-SGM3 mice with human CD34+hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) from umbilical cord blood followed by transplantation of a human melanoma cell line and treatment with anti-programmed cell death protein-1 (anti-PD-1).

Results

Blood CD141+DC numbers were significantly reduced in patients with stage 4 melanoma compared with healthy controls. Moreover, CD141+DCs in patients with melanoma were selectively impaired in their ability to upregulate CD83 expression after stimulation with toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) and TLR7/8 agonists ex vivo. Although DC numbers did not correlate with responses to anti-PD-1 and/or anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) ICIs, their numbers and capacity to upregulate CD83 declined further during treatment in non-responding patients. Treatment with anti-PD-1 was ineffective at controlling tumor growth in humanized mice but efficacy was enhanced by indirectly expanding and activating DCs in vivo withfms-like tyrosine kinase-3 ligand (Flt3L) and a TLR3 agonist. Moreover, intratumoral injections of CD141+DCs resulted in reduced tumor growth when combined with anti-PD-1 treatment.

Conclusions

These data illustrate quantitative and qualitative impairments in circulating CD141+DCs in patients with advanced melanoma and that increasing CD141+DC number and function is an attractive strategy to enhance immunogenicity and response rates to ICIs.
Incidence and predictors of prosthesis–patient mismatch after TAVI using SAPIEN 3 in Asian: differences between the newer and older balloon-expandable valve
Authors: Miyasaka Masaki , Tada Norio , Taguri Masataka , Kato Shigeaki , Enta Yusuke , Hata Masaki , Watanabe Yusuke , Naganuma Toru , Yamawaki Masahiro , Yamanaka Futoshi , Shirai Shinichi , Ueno Hiroshi , Mizutani Kazuki , Tabata Minoru , Takagi Kensuke , Yamamoto Masanori , Hayashida Kentaro
Published: March 2021

Background

The balloon-expandable SAPIEN 3 (S3) is superior to the older-generation balloon-expandable SAPIEN XT (XT) in a lower incidence of paravalvular aortic regurgitation, lower complication rates and better survival in transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). However, prosthesis–patient mismatch (PPM) more frequently occurs in S3 than XT. Further, little information is available on PPM after TAVI using S3 in Asians. This study aims to determine the incidence and predictors of PPM in S3 by focusing on the difference between S3 and XT using data from a Japanese multicentre registry.

Methods

From the Optimised transCathEter vAlvular iNtervention-TAVI (OCEAN-TAVI) registry, 2134 patients undergoing TAVI using S3 or XT were included. PPM was defined as moderate if ≧0.65 but ≦0.85 cm2/m2or severe if <0.65 cm2/m2at the indexed effective orifice area by postprocedural echocardiography.

Results

The incidence of moderate and severe PPM in S3 was 13.3% and 1.3%, respectively. The 20 mm transcatheter heart valve (THV) was more frequently used in S3 than XT (7.4% vs 2.4%, p<0.0001). PPM was more frequently observed in S3 than XT (14.7% vs 8.8%, p<0.0001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed S3 predicted PPM (OR 1.92 (95% CI 1.35 to 2.74), p=0.0003). The mutual predictors for PPM between S3 and XT were younger age, larger body surface area, smaller aortic valve area, no balloon postdilatation and the use of 20 mm and 23 mm THV. When comparing 23 mm, 26 mm and 29 mm S3, the ORs of 20 mm S3 were 5.67 (95% CI 2.88 to 11.12), 19.24 (95% CI 8.13 to 46.86) and 51.03 (95% CI 12.28 to 280.77), respectively.

Conclusions

The incidence of PPM after TAVI using S3 was 14.6% overall in this Asian population. PPM was more frequently observed in S3 than XT. A considerable number of patients were treated by the 20 mm S3 in an Asian cohort. The 20 mm THV was identified as a strong predictor for PPM.
Appropriate Choice of Damping Rate and Frequency Margin for Improvement of the Piezoelectric Sensor Measurement Accuracy
Authors: Ghemari Zine , Salah Saad , Defdaf Mabrouk
Published: March 2021

In industrial installations, the piezoelectric sensor plays a very important role in the monitoring of electromechanical systems and the detection of their early defects. Modeling is the mathematical presentation of the operating principle of the piezoelectric sensor, it allows to transform this principle to equations, these equations allow to improve the performances of this sensor and to propose new designs. In this work, the effects of piezoelectric materials are explained and the piezoelectric sensor is described. The physical behavior of the sensor is modeled and extracted a formula relates the accuracy as a function of relative movement (vibratory displacement). The model developed is validated by simulation and by experimental tests and the appropriate choice of the damping rate makes it possible to improve the parameters of the piezoelectric sensor and to progress the vibratory analysis technique.
Yukon Flats Basin Tectono-Sedimentary Element, East-Central Alaska
Authors: Stanley Richard G.
Published: March 2021

Yukon Flats is a vast and remote lowland that straddles the Arctic Circle, and is located along the Yukon River in east-central Alaska. Seismic reflection and gravity data indicate that low-density sedimentary strata beneath Yukon Flats are as thick as 8 km and are underlain by Jurassic–Devonian oceanic rocks of the Angayucham–Tozitna terrane. On the basis of shallow core-hole penetrations and by analogy with nearby outcrops, the low-density strata are thought to consist of fluvial and lacustrine deposits of Neogene, Paleogene and, possibly, Late Cretaceous age. No deep petroleum exploration wells have been drilled in Yukon Flats, but a coalbed methane test reached a total depth of nearly 700 m and found small amounts of microbial methane. Geochemical data from outcrops and shallow core holes suggest that potential source rocks include non-marine coal, mudstone and shale, whereas potential reservoirs include non-marine sandstone and conglomerate. Numerous potential structural and stratigraphic traps are evident on seismic profiles. The United States Geological Survey estimates that undiscovered, technically recoverable, oil resources in the Yukon Flats Basin Tectono-Sedimentary Element range from 0 to almost 600 MMbo, and that undiscovered, technically recoverable, gas resources range from 0 to almost 15 Tcf.
South Chukchi–Hope Composite Tectono-Sedimentary Element, Chukchi Sea
Authors: Skaryatin Mikhail V. , Bulgakova Ekaterina A. , Verzhbitskiy Vladimir E. , Malyshev Nikolay A. , Obmetko Viktor V. , Borodulin Alexey A. , Ikhsanov Bulat I.
Published: March 2021

The South Chukchi–Hope Composite Tectono-Sedimentary Element (CTSE) rests on the Neocomian folded basement formed as a result of the South Anyui palaeo-ocean closure. The interpretation of 2D seismic data, as well as results of onshore structural field studies and dating of post-kinematic granite plutons, suggest post-collisional extensional/transtensional regimes potentially driving development of the South Chukchi–Hope Basin. The orogenic collapse occurred during the Aptian–Albian, and was followed by continued polyphase extensional/transtensional regime during the Late Cretaceous and Cenozoic. Depositional environments in the basin were most likely to have been non-marine in the Cretaceous and Early Tertiary, and marine from the Late Oligocene (?)–Miocene onwards. Three onshore wells in the adjacent depocentres penetrated Tertiary sediments and have had gas shows from two sites. Geochemical surveys registered anomalies of thermogenic and biogenic methane, and in some instances higher molecular ethane–penthane gases in sea-bottom sediments above gas chimneys observed on seismic lines. The CTSE is characterized by a very high present-day thermal gradient of up to 48°C km
−1
recorded in the Alaskan wells and was previously considered to be gas prone.
A method to determine the relative importance of geological parameters that control the hydraulic erodibility of rock
Authors: Boumaiza Lamine , Saeidi Ali , Quirion Marco
Published: March 2021

The most common methods used to evaluate the potential hydraulic erosion of rock are index-based methods, which correlate the force of flowing water and the capacity of a rock to resist erosion. This capacity is evaluated using erodibility indices, which combine a set of specific geological parameters. Nonetheless, there exists no clear consensus in regard to the relative importance assigned to the geological parameters. Our study proposes (i) a review of the existing index-based methods used to evaluate the hydraulic erodibility of rock and (ii) a method to determine the relative importance of the geological parameters governing the erodibility of rock. The developed approach relies on a large dataset of case studies providing details of unlined spillways subjected to erosion. We demonstrate that the analysed geological parameters can be classified according to their relative importance – from highest to lowest – as follows: (1) joint shear strength, (2) nature of the potentially eroding surface, (3) rock block volume, (4) joint opening, (5) rock block's shape and orientation relative to flow direction and (6) the rock mass deformation module. This ordering of the relative importance of the geological parameters agrees largely with previously established orderings that were based on field observations.
Lane Compression
Authors: Ko Yousun , Chadwick Alex , Bates Daniel , Mullins Robert
Published: March 2021

This article presents Lane Compression, a lightweight lossless compression technique for machine learning that is based on a detailed study of the statistical properties of machine learning data. The proposed technique profiles machine learning data gathered ahead of run-time and partitions values bit-wise into different
lanes
with more distinctive statistical characteristics. Then the most appropriate compression technique is chosen for each lane out of a small number of low-cost compression techniques. Lane Compression’s compute and memory requirements are very low and yet it achieves a compression rate comparable to or better than Huffman coding. We evaluate and analyse Lane Compression on a wide range of machine learning networks for both inference and re-training. We also demonstrate the profiling prior to run-time and the ability to configure the hardware based on the profiling guarantee robust performance across different models and datasets. Hardware implementations are described and the scheme’s simplicity makes it suitable for compressing both on-chip and off-chip traffic.
Solving a Split Feasibility Problem by the Strong Convergence of Two Projection Algorithms in Hilbert Spaces
Authors: Hammad Hasanen A. , Rehman Habib ur , Gaba Yaé Ulrich
Published: March 2021

The goal of this manuscript is to establish strong convergence theorems for inertial shrinking projection and CQ algorithms to solve a split convex feasibility problem in real Hilbert spaces. Finally, numerical examples were obtained to discuss the performance and effectiveness of our algorithms and compare the proposed algorithms with the previous shrinking projection, hybrid projection, and inertial forward-backward methods.
Study on the Development Height of Overburden Water-Flowing Fracture Zone of the Working Face
Authors: Ding Ke , Wang Lianguo , Wang Wenmiao , Wang Kai , Ren Bo , Jiang Chongyang
Published: March 2021

Mining-induced fractures in underground coal mining face affect the stability of overburdens and provide preferential channels for water and material transfer in the underground environment. Therefore, to study the development of water-flowing fracture zones in overburdens of working face and goaf is of great significance for roof control, gas drainage, water resistance, disaster reduction, and efficient mining from the mining. In this study, a new method for predicting the development of overburden water-flowing fracture zone height (DHOWFFZ) was proposed based on the characteristics of overburden rock in No. 3 coal seam of Xin’an Coal Mine. First, the stope of No. 3 coal seam exhibits a rock stratum structure of mudstone and sandstone overlapping. Considering this characteristic, the overburden strata of No. 3 coal seam are divided into several “mudstone-sandstone” rock stratum groups. Furthermore, the ultimate tensile deformation of soft rock is greater than that of hard rock. It is proposed to judge the development degree of penetrating fracture in each rock stratum by adopting the elongation rate of mudstone intermediate layer. Meanwhile, the DHOWFFZ of “mudstone sandstone” composite rock stratum structure in the 3402 working face of No. 3 coal seam is calculated to be smaller than 43.1 m according to the actual situation. Finally, the DHOWFFZ in the 3402 working face was measured in the field, which verifies the rationality of the new DHOWFFZ prediction method. The research results provide new ideas for the prediction of DHOWFFZ and are helpful for future research in related fields.
The Influence of Fair Value Measurement on the Pledge of Overconfident Major Shareholders Based on Multiple Regression and Fisher Test
Authors: Wang Wei , Qu Xiao-Hui , Du Jian-Ju , Zhu Jia-Ming
Published: March 2021

Adopting fair value measurement may bring more earnings fluctuations and induce irrational psychology and radical financing behavior of managers and major shareholders. Based on behavioral corporate governance theory, using the sample of A‐share nonfinancial listed companies of China during 2015–2017, this paper empirically examines the regulatory effect of fair value measurement; that is, whether fair value measurement affects the company’s financing decisions when major shareholders have irrational psychological characteristics, i.e., overconfidence. The study found that overconfident major shareholders increase the probability of equity pledge and increase the proportion of equity pledge; further inspection found that if the level of accrued earnings management is higher, the adjustment effect of fair value measurement is also higher; when the risk of stock price collapse is higher, fair value measurement obviously increases the probability and ratio of overconfident major shareholders’ equity pledge. The above conclusions provide empirical evidence that fair value measurement has a positively regulatory effect on financing decisions of major shareholders.
Automatic Classification Algorithm for Multisearch Data Association Rules in Wireless Networks
Authors: Li Cailing , Li Wenjun
Published: March 2021

In order to realize efficient data processing in wireless network, this paper designs an automatic classification algorithm of multisearch data association rules in a wireless network. According to the algorithm, starting from the mining of multisearch data association rules, from the discretization of continuous attributes of multisearch data, generation of fuzzy classification rules, and the design of association rule classifier and other aspects, automatic classification is completed by using the mining results. Experimental results show that this algorithm has the advantages of small classification error, good real‐time performance, high coverage rate, and high feasibility.
Optimal Inflow Performance Relationship Equation for Horizontal and Deviated Wells in Low-Permeability Reservoirs
Authors: Wang Liqiang , Li Zhengke , Shao Mingji , Cui Yinghuai , Jing Wenbo , Zhang Wei , Wang Maoxian
Published: March 2021

After Vogel proposed a dimensionless inflow performance equation, with the rise of the horizontal well production mode, a large number of inflow performance relationship (IPR) equations have emerged. In the productivity analysis of deviated and horizontal wells, the IPR equation proposed by Cheng is mainly used. However, it is still unclear whether these inflow performance models (such as the Cheng, Klins-Majcher, Bendakhlia-Aziz, and Wiggins-Russell-Jennings types) are suitable for productivity evaluations of horizontal and deviated wells in low-permeability reservoirs. In-depth comparisons and analyses have not been carried out, which hinders improvements in the accuracy of the productivity evaluations of horizontal wells in low-permeability reservoirs. In this study, exploratory work was conducted in two areas. First, the linear flow function relationship used in previous studies was improved. Based on the experimental pressure-volume-temperature results, a power exponential flow function model was established according to different intervals greater or less than the bubble point pressure, which was introduced into the subsequent derivation of the inflow performance equation. Second, given the particularity of low-permeability reservoir percolation, considering that the reservoir is a deformation medium, and because of the existence of a threshold pressure gradient in fluid flow, the relationship between permeability and pressure was changed. The starting pressure gradient was introduced into the subsequent establishment of the inflow performance equation. Based on the above two aspects of this work, the dimensionless IPR of single-phase and oil-gas two-phase horizontal wells in a deformed medium reservoir was established by using the equivalent seepage resistance method and complex potential superposition principle. Furthermore, through regression and error analyses of the standard inflow performance data, the correlation coefficients and error distributions of six types of IPR equations applicable to deviated and horizontal wells at different inclination angles were compared. The results show that the IPR equation established in this study features good stability and accuracy and that it can fully reflect the particularity of low-permeability reservoir seepage. It provides the best choice of the IPR between inclined wells and horizontal wells in low-permeability reservoirs. The other types of IPR equations are the Wiggins-Russell-Jennings, Klins-Majcher, Vogel, Fetkovich, Bendakhlia-Aziz, and Harrison equations, listed here in order from good to poor in accuracy.
Overview of Artificial Intelligence Applications in Chinese Medicine Therapy
Authors: Feng Chuwen , Zhou Shuoyan , Qu Yuanyuan , Wang Qingyong , Bao Shengyong , Li Yang , Yang Tiansong
Published: March 2021

To evaluate the importance of AI technologies in modernizing traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) therapy, this article presents the systematic review of the relevant literature and explains the beneficial effects of AI technology on the TCM treatment outcomes from the experience of famous and veteran Chinese medicines, including acupuncture, Tui Na massage, and Qigong practitioners. This study also focuses on the urgent necessity to apply AI technologies to develop therapeutic models on the theme “treating the disease before it happens.” Furthermore, the study also discusses the major bottlenecks and future prospects for the development of intelligent TCM treatment strategies.
Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm in Numerical Simulation of Saturated Rock Slope Slip
Authors: Liu Bowen , Wang Zhenwei , Zhong Xiaoyong
Published: March 2021

With the continuous popularization and development of highway traffic in mountainous areas, the number of rock slopes is also increasing. In order to improve the stability of rock slope and reduce the harm caused by slope slip, this paper carries out numerical simulation of rock slope sliding based on particle swarm optimization algorithm. Firstly, this paper combines the differential evolution algorithm and simplex method to improve the global and local search ability of particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm and analyzes the performance of the algorithm. ABAQUS software is used to simulate rock slope sliding, the finite element method is used to analyze the stability of rock slope, and LS-DYNA program is used to simulate rockfall impact rock slope. During the numerical simulation, the improved algorithm is used to analyze all the data. Experimental data show that the improved PSO algorithm converges after nearly 100 iterations and the convergence speed and optimization accuracy are high. In the numerical simulation, the average failure probability of the left and right sides of the main section at the top, middle, and foot of the slope is 0.0820 and 0.0723, 0.0772 and 0.0492, and 0.0837 and 0.0677, respectively, indicating that the overall instability probability of the left side of the rock slope is higher than that of the right side. The rock slope with the same direction through joint is mainly affected by the joint at the toe of the slope, the rock slope with reverse through joint is mainly affected by the joint in the slope, and the sliding occurs from the middle to both ends. In addition, with the increase of the size and height of rockfall, the total energy of rock slope is also increasing, and the possibility and degree of rock slope sliding are higher. This shows that the improved particle swarm optimization algorithm can effectively analyze some factors affecting slope slip in numerical simulation of saturated rock slope slip.
Survey on H∞ Robust Control of the Solid Oxide Fuel Cell
Authors: Huo Haibo , Yang Haidong , Xu Kui , Kuang Xinghong , Xu Jingxiang
Published: March 2021

Excessive use of fuel or being underutilized will make the actual performance of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) affected by a lot, and at the same time, in order to meet the demands of DC load voltage, a controller of the SOFC that is subjected to small varying loads is proposed on the basis of H∞ control theory. For the controller design, a state-space representation of the SOFC by using small-signal linearization is derived. To evaluate the control performance, the presented H∞ controller is tested on the SOFC stack with various load disturbances. The results show that the obtained H∞ controller can mitigate the voltage oscillations and deviations and can keep fuel utilization constant at varying loads.