bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance Testing of a Large-Format X-ray Reflection Grating Prototype for a Suborbital Rocket Payload
Authors: Donovan Benjamin D. , McEntaffer Randall L. , DeRoo Casey T. , Tutt James H. , Grisé Fabien , Eichfeld Chad M. , Gall Oren Z. , Burwitz Vadim , Hartner Gisela , Pelliciari Carlo , Caria Marlis-Madeleine La
Published: October 2020

The soft X-ray grating spectrometer on board the Off-plane Grating Rocket Experiment (OGRE) hopes to achieve the highest resolution soft X-ray spectrum of an astrophysical object when it is launched via suborbital rocket. Paramount to the success of the spectrometer are the performance of the [Formula: see text] reflection gratings populating its reflection grating assembly. To test current grating fabrication capabilities, a grating prototype for the payload was fabricated via electron-beam lithography at The Pennsylvania State University’s Materials Research Institute and was subsequently tested for performance at Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics’ PANTER X-ray Test Facility. Bayesian modeling of the resulting data via Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) sampling indicated that the grating achieved the OGRE single-grating resolution requirement of [Formula: see text] at the 94% confidence level. The resulting [Formula: see text] posterior probability distribution suggests that this confidence level is likely a conservative estimate though, since only a finite [Formula: see text] parameter space was sampled and the model could not constrain the upper bound of [Formula: see text] to less than infinity. Raytrace simulations of the tested system found that the observed data can be reproduced with a grating performing at [Formula: see text]. It is therefore postulated that the behavior of the obtained [Formula: see text] posterior probability distribution can be explained by a finite measurement limit of the system and not a finite limit on [Formula: see text]. Implications of these results and improvements to the test setup are discussed.
Computational Studies of 3D-QSAR on a Highly Active Series of Naturally Occurring Nonnucleoside Inhibitors of HIV-1 RT (NNRTI)
Authors: Hussain Waqar , Majeed Arshia , Akhtar Ammara , Rasool Nouman
Published: October 2020

HIV is one of the deadliest viruses in the history of mankind, it is the root cause of Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) around the world. Despite the fact that the antiviral therapy used against HIV-1 infection is effective, there is also rapidly growing cases of drug resistance in the infected patient along with different severe side effects. Therefore, it is of dire and immediate need to find novel inhibitors against HIV-1 Reverse Transcriptase (RT). In this study, the potential of naturally occurring compounds extracted from plants has been studied with the help of Three-Dimensional-Quantitative Structure–Activity Relationships (3D-QSAR) analysis. A total of 20 compounds, retrieved from a ZINC database, were analyzed with the help of 3D-QSAR to identify a potential inhibitor of HIV-1 RT. By evaluation of seven models generated with the help of MIF analysis and 3D-QSAR modeling, compound 3 (ZINC ID: ZINC20759448) was observed to outperform others by showing optimal results in QSAR studies. This compound has also been biologically validated by a recently reported previous study. Thus, this compound can be used as a potential drug against infection caused by HIV-1, specifically AIDS.
Automatic Deep Inference of Procedural Cities from Global-scale Spatial Data
Authors: Zhang Xiaowei , Shehata Aly , Benes Bedrich , Aliaga Daniel
Published: October 2020

Recent advances in big spatial data acquisition and deep learning allow novel algorithms that were not possible several years ago. We introduce a novel inverse procedural modeling algorithm for urban areas that addresses the problem of spatial data quality and uncertainty. Our method is fully automatic and produces a 3D approximation of an urban area given satellite imagery and global-scale data, including road network, population, and elevation data. By analyzing the values and the distribution of urban data, e.g., parcels, buildings, population, and elevation, we construct a procedural approximation of a city at a large-scale. Our approach has three main components: (1) procedural model generation to create parcel and building geometries, (2) parcel area estimation that trains neural networks to provide initial parcel sizes for a segmented satellite image of a city block, and (3) an optional optimization that can use partial knowledge of overall average building footprint area and building counts to improve results.

We demonstrate and evaluate our approach on cities around the globe with widely different structures and automatically yield procedural models with up to 91,000 buildings, and spanning up to 150 km
2
. We obtain both a spatial arrangement of parcels and buildings similar to ground truth and a distribution of building sizes similar to ground truth, hence yielding a statistically similar synthetic urban space. We produce procedural models at multiple scales, and with less than 1% error in parcel and building areas in the best case as compared to ground truth and 5.8% error on average for tested cities.
Mechanical Frequency Tuning by Sensory Hair Cells, the Receptors and Amplifiers of the Inner Ear
Authors: Martin Pascal , Hudspeth A.J.
Published: October 2020

We recognize sounds by analyzing their frequency content. Different frequency components evoke distinct mechanical waves that each travel within the hearing organ, or cochlea, to a frequency-specific place. These signals are detected by hair cells, the ear's sensory receptors, in response to vibrations of mechanically sensitive antennas termed hair bundles. An active process enhances the sensitivity, sharpens the frequency tuning, and broadens the dynamic range of hair cells through several mechanisms, including active hair-bundle motility. A dynamic interplay between negative stiffness mediated by ion channels’ gating forces and delayed force feedback owing to myosin motors and channel reclosure by calcium ions brings the hair bundle to the vicinity of an oscillatory instability—a Hopf bifurcation. Operation near a Hopf bifurcation provides nonlinear generic features that are characteristic of hearing. Multiple gradients at molecular, cellular, and supercellular scales tune hair cells to characteristic frequencies that cover our auditory range.
The Classification of South American Languages
Authors: Michael Lev
Published: October 2020

With some 108 independent genealogical units, South America is the linguistically most diverse region of our planet and presents a particular challenge to linguists seeking to understand the genealogical relationships among human languages. Recent years have seen a resurgence of interest in the internal classification of South American language families, and this article provides a critical overview of research in this very active area, focusing on the seven largest language families of the continent: Arawakan, Cariban, Jê, Panoan, Quechuan, Tukanoan, and Tupian. The strengths and weaknesses of major classification proposals are examined, and directions for future research discussed. Several long-distance relationship proposals that South Americanists are actively debating, including Tupi-Cariban, Pano-Takanan, Quechumaran, TuKaJê, and Macro-Jê, are also examined.
Shifty Attitudes: Indexical Shift Versus Perspectival Anaphora
Authors: Sundaresan Sandhya
Published: October 2020

In cases of indexical shift, so-called indexical pronouns like I, you, here, and now refer to the speaker, addressee, location, and time of some context other than the utterance context. In cases of perspectival anaphora, an anaphor tracks the perspective of some individual other than the utterance speaker [or addressee(s)]. Thus, both phenomena involve referential obviation of a pronoun or anaphor from the utterance context. Such obviation also occurs under strikingly similar grammatical conditions—for instance, in the scope of an attitude predicate (e.g., say, think, perceive). In this review, I introduce the core properties of both phenomena and show that they actually stand in a subset–superset relation. The availability of indexical shift in a given environment entails that of perspectival anaphora, but not vice-versa. I describe a plausible way to make sense of these insights within a unified model of attitude shift, which in turn helps chart out clear avenues for future research.
Advances in Human Lung Transplantation
Authors: Swaminathan Aparna C. , Todd Jamie L. , Palmer Scott M.
Published: October 2020

Lung transplantation improves survival and quality of life in patients with advanced pulmonary disease. Over the past several decades, the volume of lung transplants has grown substantially, with increasing transplantation of older and acutely ill individuals facilitated by improved utilization and preservation of available donor organs. Other advances include improvements in the diagnosis and mechanistic understanding of frequent post-transplant complications, such as primary graft dysfunction, acute rejection, and chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD). CLAD occurs as a result of the host immune response to the allograft and is the principal factor limiting long-term survival after lung transplantation. Two distinct clinical phenotypes of CLAD have emerged, bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome and restrictive allograft syndrome, and this distinction has enabled further understanding of underlying immune mechanisms. Building on these advances, ongoing studies are exploring novel approaches to diagnose, prevent, and treat CLAD. Such studies are necessary to improve long-term outcomes for lung transplant recipients.
Review—The Design, Performance and Continuing Development of Electrochemical Reactors for Clean Electrosynthesis
Authors: Perry Samuel C. , Ponce de León Carlos , Walsh Frank C.
Published: October 2020

A critical review of classical and improved electrodes, electrocatalysts and reactors is provided. The principles governing the selection of electrochemical flow reactor or progression of a particular design for laboratory or pilot scale are reviewed integrating the principles of electrochemistry and electrochemical engineering with practical aspects. The required performance, ease of assembly, maintenance schedule and scale-up plans must be incorporated. Reactor designs can be enhanced by decorating their surfaces with nanostructured electrocatalysts. The simple parallel plate geometry design, often in modular, filter-press format, occupies a prominent position, both in the laboratory and in industry and may incorporates porous, 3D or structured electrode surfaces and bipolar electrical connections considering the reaction environment, especially potential- and current-distributions, uniformity of flow, mass transport rates, electrode activity, side reactions and current leakage. Specialised electrode geometries include capillary gap and thin film cells, rotating cylinder electrodes, 3-D porous electrodes, fluidised bed electrodes and bipolar trickle tower reactors. Applications span inorganic, organic electrosynthesis and environmental remediation. Recent developments in cell design: 3D printing, nanostructured, templating 3D porous electrodes, microchannel flow, combinatorial electrocatalyst studies, bioelectrodes and computational modelling. Figures of merit describing electrochemical reactor performance and their use are illustrated. Future research and development needs are suggested.
How Do COVID-19 Inpatients in the Denver Metropolitan Area Measure Up?
Authors: Watts Paula J. , Wojcik Trevor , Baker-Sparr Christina , Kelly Jason L. , Sharma Surit , Scherbak Dmitriy
Published: October 2020

Background. Inpatient data for COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) afflicted inpatients remain sparse. Data are needed to create accurate projections for resource consumption as the pandemic continues. Published reports of inpatient data have come from China, Italy, Singapore, and both the East and West coasts of the United States. Objective. The objective is to present our inpatient experience with COVID-19. Design, Setting, and Participants. This is a retrospective study of 681 patients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 from six hospitals in the Denver metropolitan area admitted between February 18 and April 30, 2020. Clinical outcomes of patients discharged or expired by April 30, 2020, were analyzed. Main Outcomes. We compiled patient demographics, length of stay, number of patients transferred to or admitted to the ICU, ICU length of stay, mechanical ventilation requirements, and mortality rates. Results. Of the 890 patients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19, 681 had discharged and were included in this analysis. We observed 100% survival of the 0–18 age group (n = 2), 97% survival of the 19–30 age group, 95% survival of the 31–64 age group, 79% survival of the 65–84 age group, and 75% survival of the 85 and older age group. Our total inpatient mortality was 13% (91 patients), rising to 29% (59 patients) for those requiring ICU care. Conclusions. Compared to similar reports from other metropolitan areas, our analysis of discharged or expired COVID-19 patients from six major hospitals in the Denver metropolitan area revealed a lower mortality. This includes the subset of patients admitted to the ICU regardless of the need for intubation. A lower ICU length of stay was also observed.
Rotationplasty for Unplanned Fixation of Pathological Fracture Distal Femoral Osteosarcoma
Authors: Hongsaprabhas Chindanai , Chenboonthai Wittavat , Suvaraksakul Phoomchai , Charoenlap Chris
Published: October 2020

Introduction. Rotationplasty had been reported as a salvage procedure for many decades. However, this procedure has not been used for unplanned fixation for pathological fracture of osteosarcoma. Therefore, this is the first case report of rotationplasty for this particular indication. Case Presentation. We report a case of a 22-year-old Thai female patient who sustained a supracondylar fracture at the distal femur and underwent a surgical treatment by open reduction and internal fixation with a distal femoral locking plate and screws. Follow-up radiographic imaging revealed that there were abnormal osteolytic lesions, and conventional high-grade osteosarcoma was diagnosed by a pathological study. There were no distant metastases from Computed Tomography (CT) scan or Technitium-99m bone scintography. After discussing with the patient for treatment options, rotationplasty was chosen for her definitive treatment after 3 courses of neoadjuvant chemotherapy. All of the contaminated tissues were removed during the surgery. The neurovascular bundles were preserved. A standard rotationplasty type A-1 according to the Winkelmann Classification was performed. Postoperative imaging showed satisfactory outcomes, and the wound healed uneventfully. The patient was able to move her ankle as a knee, and external prosthetic fitting was made. Adjuvant chemotherapy was given after a free margin with good tumor necrosis which was achieved as shown in the pathological study. At the patient’s 3-year follow-up visit, she has stable size of lung nodules. She can walk with external prosthesis, limping slightly. Her new knee could move as expected, and she was satisfied with the result of the treatment. Conclusion. Rotationplasty for unplanned fixation of pathological fracture is a complex procedure. Patients often do not select this type of treatment because of the cosmetic acceptance even though it yields a good functional result. Therefore, awareness of the pathological fracture should initially be taken into account to prevent inappropriate fixation which could result in an unnecessary amputation.
Comparison of Fluid Pressure Wave between Biot Theory and Storativity Equation
Authors: Li Guangquan , Liu Kui , Li Xiang
Published: October 2020

Compressibilities of pore fluid and rock skeleton affect pressure profile and flow velocity of fluid in aquifers. Storativity equation is often used to characterize such effects. The equation suffers from a disadvantage that at infinite large frequency, the predicted velocity of fluid pressure wave is infinitely large, which is unrealistic because any physical processes need certain amounts of time. In this paper, Biot theory is employed to investigate the problem. It is shown that the key equations of Biot theory can be simplified to storativity equation, based on low-frequency assumption. Using Berea sandstone as an example, we compare phase velocity and the quality factor between Biot theory and storativity equation. The results reveal that Biot theory is more accurate in yielding a bounded wave velocity. At frequency lower than 100 kHz, Biot theory yields a wave velocity 8 percent higher than storativity equation does. Apparent permeability measured by fluid pressure wave (such as Oscillatory Hydraulic Tomography) may be 14 percent higher than real permeability measured by steady flow experiments. If skeleton is rigid, Biot theory at very high frequencies or with very high permeabilities will yield the same velocity as sound wave in pure water. The findings help us for better understanding of the physical processes of pore fluid and the limitations of storativity equation.
Evaluation and Treatment of Vascular Cognitive Impairment by Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Authors: Cantone Mariagiovanna , Lanza Giuseppe , Fisicaro Francesco , Pennisi Manuela , Bella Rita , Di Lazzaro Vincenzo , Di Pino Giovanni
Published: October 2020

The exact relationship between cognitive functioning, cortical excitability, and synaptic plasticity in dementia is not completely understood. Vascular cognitive impairment (VCI) is deemed to be the most common cognitive disorder in the elderly since it encompasses any degree of vascular-based cognitive decline. In different cognitive disorders, including VCI, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can be exploited as a noninvasive tool able to evaluate in vivo the cortical excitability, the propension to undergo neural plastic phenomena, and the underlying transmission pathways. Overall, TMS in VCI revealed enhanced cortical excitability and synaptic plasticity that seem to correlate with the disease process and progression. In some patients, such plasticity may be considered as an adaptive response to disease progression, thus allowing the preservation of motor programming and execution. Recent findings also point out the possibility to employ TMS to predict cognitive deterioration in the so-called “brains at risk” for dementia, which may be those patients who benefit more of disease-modifying drugs and rehabilitative or neuromodulatory approaches, such as those based on repetitive TMS (rTMS). Finally, TMS can be exploited to select the responders to specific drugs in the attempt to maximize the response and to restore maladaptive plasticity. While no single TMS index owns enough specificity, a panel of TMS-derived measures can support VCI diagnosis and identify early markers of progression into dementia. This work reviews all TMS and rTMS studies on VCI. The aim is to evaluate how cortical excitability, plasticity, and connectivity interact in the pathophysiology of the impairment and to provide a translational perspective towards novel treatments of these patients. Current pitfalls and limitations of both studies and techniques are also discussed, together with possible solutions and future research agenda.
Multiple Therapy Approach for Stage 3 Coats Disease: Long-Term Follow-Up
Authors: Mastropasqua Rodolfo , D’Aloisio Rossella , Stanga Paulo Eduardo , Haynes Richard
Published: October 2020

Purpose. To assess long-term efficacy of a multiple therapy approach in the treatment and management of unilateral stage 3 Coats disease with exudative retinal detachment. Methods. 2 eyes of 2 young patients suffering from unilateral stage 3 Coats disease underwent a multiple therapy approach consisting of surgical drainage of exudative subretinal fluid + one simultaneous and up to one subsequent intravitreal injection of bevacizumab + multiple (up to 3) laser photocoagulation sessions of retinal nonperfusion areas and leaking Coats vasculature. Results. Complete reabsorption of SRF and retinal reattachment were observed in both cases over the follow-up. In no cases, we observed progression to phthisis bulbi. No bevacizumab-related complications were observed. Epiretinal membrane onset was detected in one eye at the end of follow-up. Conclusion. The management and treatment of this rare and degenerative disease in young subjects are still a challenge. The described technique is less invasive than conventional intraocular surgery and may be preferable to halt the devastating progression of the disease.
Influence of Optimization Design Based on Artificial Intelligence and Internet of Things on the Electrocardiogram Monitoring System
Authors: Yin Ming , Tang Ru , Liu Miao , Han Ke , Lv Xiao , Huang Maolin , Xu Ping , Hu Yongdeng , Ma Baobao , Gai Yanrong
Published: October 2020

With the increasing emphasis on remote electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring, a variety of wearable remote ECG monitoring systems have been developed. However, most of these systems need improvement in terms of efficiency, stability, and accuracy. In this study, the performance of an ECG monitoring system is optimized by improving various aspects of the system. These aspects include the following: the judgment, marking, and annotation of ECG reports using artificial intelligence (AI) technology; the use of Internet of Things (IoT) to connect all the devices of the system and transmit data and information; and the use of a cloud platform for the uploading, storage, calculation, and analysis of patient data. The use of AI improves the accuracy and efficiency of ECG reports and solves the problem of the shortage and uneven distribution of high-quality medical resources. IoT technology ensures the good performance of remote ECG monitoring systems in terms of instantaneity and rapidity and, thus, guarantees the maximum utilization efficiency of high-quality medical resources. Through the optimization of remote ECG monitoring systems with AI and IoT technology, the operating efficiency, accuracy of signal detection, and system stability have been greatly improved, thereby establishing an excellent health monitoring and auxiliary diagnostic platform for medical workers and patients.
A Facial Expression Recognition Method Using Improved Capsule Network Model
Authors: Zhao Yifeng , Chen Deyun
Published: October 2020

Aiming at the problem of facial expression recognition under unconstrained conditions, a facial expression recognition method based on an improved capsule network model is proposed. Firstly, the expression image is normalized by illumination based on the improved Weber face, and the key points of the face are detected by the Gaussian process regression tree. Then, the 3dmms model is introduced. The 3D face shape, which is consistent with the face in the image, is provided by iterative estimation so as to further improve the image quality of face pose standardization. In this paper, we consider that the convolution features used in facial expression recognition need to be trained from the beginning and add as many different samples as possible in the training process. Finally, this paper attempts to combine the traditional deep learning technology with capsule configuration, adds an attention layer after the primary capsule layer in the capsule network, and proposes an improved capsule structure model suitable for expression recognition. The experimental results on JAFFE and BU-3DFE datasets show that the recognition rate can reach 96.66% and 80.64%, respectively.
Phase I Study of Everolimus, Letrozole, and Trastuzumab in Patients with Hormone Receptor−positive Metastatic Breast Cancer or Other Solid Tumors
Authors: Ballhausen Alexej , Wheler Jennifer J. , Karp Daniel D. , Piha-Paul Sarina A. , Fu Siqing , Pant Shubham , Tsimberidou Apostolia M. , Hong David S. , Subbiah Vivek , Holley Veronica R. , Huang Helen J. , Brewster Abenaa M. , Koenig Kimberly B. , Ibrahim Nuhad K. , Meric-Bernstam Funda , Janku Filip
Published: October 2020

Purpose:

Doublets of everolimus with letrozole or trastuzumab have demonstrated activity against HER2-positive breast cancer, suggesting that the triple combination can have synergistic anticancer activity.

Patients and Methods:

This first-in-human dose-escalation study (NCT02152943) enrolled patients with hormone receptor− positive, HER2-positive (defined by amplification, overexpression, or mutation) treatment-refractory advanced cancers to receive escalating doses (3+3 design) of daily oral letrozole (days 1–21), daily oral everolimus (days 1–21), and intravenous trastuzumab (day 1) every 21 days to determine dose-limiting toxicities (DLT) and MTD or recommended phase II dose (RP2D).

Results:

A total of 32 patients with hormone receptor−positive, HER2-positive (amplification, n = 27; overexpression, n = 1; and mutation, n = 4) advanced breast cancer (n = 26) or other cancers (n = 6) were enrolled. The most frequent grade ≥3 adverse events included hyperglycemia (n = 4), anemia (n = 3), thrombocytopenia (n = 2), and mucositis (n = 2). DLTs included grade 3 mucositis and grade 4 neutropenia, and trastuzumab given as an 8 mg/kg loading dose on day 1 of cycle 1 followed by a 6 mg/kg maintenance dose on day 1 of subsequent cycles plus 10 mg everolimus daily and 2.5 mg letrozole daily every 21 days was declared as RP2D. Five patients with breast cancer (four with HER2 amplification and one with HER2 mutation) had partial responses. HER2 amplification in circulating cell-free DNA at baseline was associated with shorter progression-free and overall survival durations (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

Everolimus, letrozole, and trastuzumab have a favorable safety profile and elicit encouraging signals of anticancer activity in patients with heavily pretreated hormone receptor- and HER2-positive advanced cancers.
Impact of Oral Myofunctional Therapy on Orofacial Myofunctional Status and Tongue Strength in Patients with Tongue Thrust
Authors: Mozzanica Francesco , Pizzorni Nicole , Scarponi Letizia , Crimi Giorgia , Schindler Antonio
Published: October 2020

Introduction: Tongue thrust is a frequent clinical condition characterized by abnormal patterns of movements and altered tongue posture on the mouth floor. It might contribute to determining alterations in the maxillofacial morphology and in the development of malocclusion. Several therapeutic options are available for treatment. In particular, the orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT) is frequently adopted even if only few studies have analyzed its efficacy using validated instruments and no information is available regarding the effect of dentition on the results obtained with OMT. Objective: To evaluate the effect of OMT through a validated instrument and explore the role of dentition on its efficacy. Methods: A total of 22 consecutive patients with tongue thrust were enrolled. According to the presence of mixed or complete dentition, the cohort of patients was divided into 2 groups. Each patient underwent OMT according to the Garliner method (10 weekly sessions of 45 min each in hospital and daily exercises at home). The efficacy of OMT was evaluated using the Orofacial Myofunctional Evaluation with Scores (OMES), a validated protocol developed for the assessment of orofacial myofunctional disorders, and the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument (IOPI) to measure the peak isometric pressure exerted by the anterior and posterior part of the tongue. Both OMES and IOPI were administered before and at the end of the treatment. Results: A significant improvement in the OMES scores was demonstrated after OMT. No significant differences between the patients with intermediate and mixed dentition obtained in both the pre- and post-treatment conditions were demonstrated in the OMES scores. Similarly, a significant increase in the peak isometric tongue pressure in both the anterior and posterior parts of the tongue was demonstrated after OMT in the groups. No differences between the two groups in both the pre- and post-treatment conditions were demonstrated in the IOPI scores. Conclusions: OMT improves orofacial motricity and tongue strength in patients with tongue thrust regardless of the type of dentition.
Effect of Extracorporeal Blood Purification on Mortality in Sepsis: A Meta-Analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis
Authors: Snow Timothy A.C. , Littlewood Shona , Corredor Carlos , Singer Mervyn , Arulkumaran Nishkantha
Published: October 2020

Objective: The objective of this study was to conduct a meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis (TSA) of published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to determine whether mortality benefit exists for extracorporeal blood purification techniques in sepsis. Data Sources: A systematic search on MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for RCTs was performed. Study Selection: RCTs investigating the effect of extracorporeal blood purification device use on mortality among critically ill septic patients were selected. Data Extraction: Mortality was assessed using Mantel-Haenszel models, and I2 was used for heterogeneity. Data are presented as odds ratios (OR); 95% confidence intervals (CIs); p values; I2. Using the control event mortality proportion, we performed a TSA and calculated the required information size using an anticipated intervention effect of a 14% relative reduction in mortality. Data Synthesis: Thirty-nine RCTs were identified, with 2,729 patients. Fourteen studies used hemofiltration (n = 789), 17 used endotoxin adsorption devices (n = 1,363), 3 used nonspecific adsorption (n = 110), 2 were cytokine removal devices (n = 117), 2 used coupled plasma filtration adsorption (CPFA) (n = 207), 2 combined hemofiltration and perfusion (n = 40), and 1 used plasma exchange (n = 106). On conventional meta-analysis, hemofiltration (OR 0.56 [0.40–0.79]; p < 0.001; I2 = 0%), endotoxin removal devices (OR 0.40 [0.23–0.67], p < 0.001; I2 = 71%), and nonspecific adsorption devices (OR 0.32 [0.13–0.82]; p = 0.02; I2 = 23%) were associated with mortality benefit, but not cytokine removal (OR 0.99 [0.07–13.42], p = 0.99; I2 = 64%), CPFA (OR 0.50 [0.10–2.47]; p = 0.40; I2 = 64%), or combined hemofiltration and adsorption (OR 0.71 [0.13–3.79]; p = 0.69; I2 = 0%). TSA however revealed that based on the number of existing patients recruited for RCTs, neither hemofiltration (TSA-adjusted CI 0.29–1.10), endotoxin removal devices (CI 0.05–3.40), nor nonspecific adsorption devices (CI 0.01–14.31) were associated with mortality benefit. Conclusion: There are inadequate data at present to conclude that the use of extracorporeal blood purification techniques in sepsis is beneficial. Further adequately powered RCTs are required to confirm any potential mortality benefit, which may be most evident in patients at greatest risk of death.
MR Brain Image Segmentation Using a Fuzzy Weighted Multiview Possibility Clustering Algorithm with Low-Rank Constraints
Authors: Sun Xiaoqi , Gao Wenxi , Duan Yinong
Published: October 2020

To expand the multiview clustering abilities of traditional PCM in increasingly complex MR brain image segmentation tasks, a fuzzy weighted multiview possibility clustering algorithm with low-rank constraints (LR-FW-MVPCM) is proposed. The LR-FW-MVPCM can effectively mine both the internal
consistency and diversity of multiview data, which are two principles for constructing a multiview clustering algorithm. First, a kernel norm is introduced as a low-rank constraint of the fuzzy membership matrix among multiple perspectives. Second, to ensure the clustering accuracy of the
algorithm, the view fuzzy weighted mechanism is introduced to the framework of possibility c-means clustering, and the weights of each view are adaptively allocated during the iterative optimization process. The segmentation results of different brain tissues based on the proposed algorithm
and three other algorithms illustrate that the LR-FW-MVPCM algorithm can segment MR brain images much more effectively and ensure better segmentation performance.
CT Image Segmentation of Liver Tumor with Deep Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Zeng Yao , Dai Huanhuan
Published: October 2020

The liver is the largest substantial organ in the abdominal cavity of the human body. Its structure is complex, the incidence of vascular abundance is high, and it has been seriously ribbed, human health and life. In this study, an automatic segmentation method based on deep convolutional
neural network is proposed. Image data blocks of different sizes are extracted as training data and different network structures are designed, and features are automatically learned to obtain a segmentation structure of the tumor. Secondly, in order to further refine the segmentation boundary,
we establish a multi-region segmentation model with region mutual exclusion constraints. The model combines the image grayscale, gradient and prior probability information, and overcomes the problem that the boundary point attribution area caused by boundary blur and regional adhesion is difficult
to determine. Finally, the model is solved quickly using the time-invisible multi-phase level set. Compared with the traditional multi-organ segmentation method, this method does not require registration or model initialization. The experimental results show that the model can segment the
liver, kidney and spleen quickly and effectively, and the segmentation accuracy reaches the advanced level of current methods.
Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study of Thymus Activation Induced by Different Intensity Electrical Stimulation
Authors: Li Tao , Chen Kai , Quan Xianyue
Published: October 2020

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to observe the activation response of the hypothalamus under different intensity electrical stimulation, and to explore the role of thalamus in the pain regulation network. Ten subjects were selected as normal subjects, and 41 °C
and 51 °C were performed on the dorsal side of the right forearm of all subjects, respectively. CCHS mission-mode functional magnetic resonance (fMRI) scans (41 °C. CCHS-fMRI group and 51 °C CHS-fMRI group) were pre-processed with fMRI using SPM8. A single sample t-test
was used to compare 41 °C CCHS-fMRI group and 51 °C. The CCHS-fMRI group underwent intragroup analysis to observe the activation of brain regions under two different temperature CHS, and recorded the activation intensity of the activation region. A paired t-test was used to
explore the difference in activation between the PD group and the control group, and brain regions with statistically significant differences were analyzed. The activation intensity of the activated brain region was recorded, and the cause of the difference was analyzed. At the end of the
trial, the visual analog scale (CVAS) was used to score the pain experienced by the subject at the stimulation temperature, and then the subject was subjected to a sensory quantification test (QST), including the measurement of thermal sensation (WS) and thermal pain (HP). At the same time,
under the same intensity electrical stimulation, the activation signal of the lateral thalamus was stronger than that of the lateral thalamus, showing a contralateral advantage, while the bilateral thalamus lacked this manifestation. The thalamus should be an important component of the pain-regulating
network. This region exhibits a segregationactivated phenomenon, and each region has its own unique stimulatory response characteristics, which helps to understand the role of the thalamus in the treatment of pain information.
Comparison of Image Quality of Multiple Magnetic Resonance Imaging Sequences in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Luo Dandan , Qin Daming , Cheng Hong , Zhou Meng , Zhu Daoming , Ni Cheng
Published: October 2020

Multiple myeloma is a refractory malignant disease characterized by clonal hyper proliferation of plasma cells in the bone marrow microenvironment. In recent years, its incidence has gradually increased and it is younger. Magnetic resonance imaging is a medical imaging technology that
has developed rapidly in recent years. Its application and promotion have greatly improved the level of medical services and scientific research. It has become one of the most important examination methods for myeloma. Magnetic resonance imaging has a high soft tissue resolution and has a
high detection rate for multiple myeloma. However, there are few studies on the MM magnetic resonance scanning protocol, and the initial or follow-up examination methods have not been unified. Therefore, this paper subjectively and objectively evaluates the clinical images of MM patients with
multiple sequences of magnetic resonance of different devices, and hopes to provide more advantageous examination methods for clinicians and patients. The experimental results show that magnetic resonance multisequence imaging can be ideal for clinical diagnosis and follow-up of MM patients.
The Use of Dynamic Monitoring Model of Bronchial Asthma in Monitoring and Nursing of Pulmonary Function
Authors: Yang Ling , Pan Suiyue , Smith Winni , Nwi Doree
Published: October 2020

Objective: The objective of this study is to explore the application characteristics and value of dynamic monitoring model of bronchial asthma in pulmonary volume monitoring, and to verify its effectiveness and superiority. Methods: 128 patients diagnosed with asthma are
taken as the study subjects. Spirotel and Spirobank G are used to measure the lung volume of patients. The results are analyzed from four aspects: operation accuracy, strict accuracy, relative accuracy and inaccuracy. Results: Compared with healthy adults, the average scores of anxiety
state and anxiety trait of the experimental subjects were higher (P < 0.05). 45.3% have baseline FEV1 (forced expiratory volume in one second) less than 80% of the predicted value. 74.2% of patients are treated with antiasthmatic drugs. In total, 94.2% of FEV1 values measured by
the two kinds of measuring instruments are consistent. There is no significant difference in the acceptability of the operation results of the patients at three different time points in the morning, afternoon and evening and different monitoring weeks (P < 0.05). Among them, there
are more repetitive results in the afternoon and evening. The results of the second week are more than those of the first week (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The dynamic monitoring model of bronchial asthma has a very good application value in the monitoring of pulmonary function
change indicators. It is helpful to make a scientific and reasonable nursing plan in time and promote the recovery of patients.
Study on the Relationship Between the Imaging Characteristics of Inflammatory Infection and the Expression of Serum Cytokines in Patients with Blood Tumor
Authors: Zhu Feibo , Sun Chenglong , Hong Yongwei , Li Jinhu , Zhou Yuhong
Published: October 2020

To study the relationship between the CT image characteristics of inflammatory infection in patients with blood tumor and expression of serum cytokines in patients, and provide a theoretical basis for the application of CT imaging in the diagnosis of inflammation in clinical hematologic
tumor patients in the future, 110 patients with inflammatory infection of blood tumor admitted to the hospital from October 30, 2017 to December 30, 2019 were selected as experimental group (EG), and 80 patients without infection in the general blood tumor department were selected as control
group (CG). CT imaging was performed on both groups of patients, and two senior doctors read the imaging features and recorded the infection. At the same time, with flow cytometry, levels of IL2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IFN-γ, and TNF-α in serum were detected. Cytokines
levels and CT diagnosis results were analyzed by the working characteristic curve of the subjects. Kappa was used to test the consistency of the two physicians, and Spearman correlation was used to analyze the correlation between cytokines and CT diagnosis results. The results demonstrated
that IL-6 level, IL-10 level, and TNF-α level in EG were obviously higher than those in CG (P < 0.05), and there was no obvious difference in levels of IL-2, IL-4, and IFN-γ (P > 0.05). The consistency coefficient of kappa test was 0.82. In the
EG, sensitivity (Se) and specificity (Spe) of IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, and CT diagnosis were 53.5% and 76.8%, 53.5% and 80.8%, 53.5% and 72.0%, 86.7% and 72.8%, respectively. Area under curve (AUC) was 0.686, 0.747, 0.657 and 0.859. Spearman correlation analysis (SCA) indicated obvious
positive correlation between CT diagnosis results and levels of serum cytokines IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α in both groups (P < 0.05). The results showed that the levels of IL-6, IL-10 and TNF-α in patients with inflammatory infection were obviously higher than
those in patients with common blood tumor. Se and AUC area of CT image diagnosis are the highest, which has a better diagnostic value in inflammatory infection of blood tumor patients. Moreover, it is obviously correlated with cytokines levels, including IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α,
in serum.
Human Performance Consequences of Automated Decision Aids: The Impact of Time Pressure
Authors: Rieger Tobias , Manzey Dietrich
Published: October 2020

Objective

The study addresses the impact of time pressure on human interactions with automated decision support systems (DSSs) and related performance consequences.

Background

When humans interact with DSSs, this often results in worse performance than could be expected from the automation alone. Previous research has suggested that time pressure might make a difference by leading humans to rely more on a DSS.

Method

In two laboratory experiments, participants performed a luggage screening task either manually, supported by a highly reliable DSS, or by a low reliable DSS. Time provided for inspecting the X-rays was 4.5 s versus 9 s varied within-subjects as the time pressure manipulation. Participants in the automation conditions were either shown the automation’s advice prior (Experiment 1) or following (Experiment 2) their own inspection, before they made their final decision.

Results

In Experiment 1, time pressure compromised performance independent of whether the task was performed manually or with automation support. In Experiment 2, the negative impact of time pressure was only found in the manual but not in the two automation conditions. However, neither experiment revealed any positive impact of time pressure on overall performance, and the joint performance of human and automation was mostly worse than the performance of the automation alone.

Conclusion

Time pressure compromises the quality of decision-making. Providing a DSS can reduce this effect, but only if the automation’s advice follows the assessment of the human.

Application

The study provides suggestions for the effective implementation of DSSs in addition to supporting concerns that highly reliable DSSs are not used optimally by human operators.
An Evaluation of an Innovative Exercise to Relieve Chronic Low Back Pain in Sedentary Workers
Authors: Saiklang Pongsatorn , Puntumetakul Rungthip , Selfe James , Yeowell Gillian
Published: October 2020

Objective

The purpose of the study was to examine the effectiveness of a novel supported dynamic lumbar extension with the abdominal drawing-in maneuver (ADIM) technique on stature change, deep abdominal muscle activity, trunk muscle fatigue, and pain intensity during prolonged sitting in chronic low back pain (CLBP) participants.

Background

Prolonged sitting can cause trunk muscle fatigue from continuous contraction of deep trunk muscles in seated postures. Deficiency of activity of deep muscles can reduce muscular support of the spine, causing stress on spinal structures, which could result in pain.

Method

Thirty participants with CLBP were randomly allocated: (a) control—sitting without exercise, and (b) intervention—supported dynamic lumbar extension with the ADIM technique.

Results

Compared to the intervention condition, the control condition demonstrated significantly greater deterioration in stature change, increased levels of deep trunk muscle fatigue, and an increase in pain during prolonged sitting.

Conclusion

The supported dynamic lumbar extension with the ADIM technique appears to provide a protective effect on detrimental stature change and deep trunk muscle fatigue. In addition, it prevented an increase in pain intensity during prolonged sitting in people with CLBP.

Application

Sedentary behavior harms health, particularly affecting the lower back. Clinicians can use the intervention to induce dynamic lumbar movement, and this exercise can maintain deep trunk muscle activity during prolonged sitting, thereby helping to prevent low back pain (LBP) problems.
Medicate to Graduate: Academic Strain and Nonmedical Prescription Stimulant Use Among Graduate and Undergraduate Students
Authors: Hurst James N. , Eassey John M. , Baldwin Julie Marie , ten Bensel Tusty
Published: October 2020

The nonmedical use of prescription stimulants has been prevalent on college campuses in recent years. Previously, nonmedical prescription stimulant use (NMPSU) has been associated with increased use of other illicit substances, drug abuse, school dropout, and arrest. It is, therefore, imperative to understand the etiology of NMPSU for prevention, intervention, and harm reduction purposes. This study builds upon previous research on the role of academic strain in NMPSU by (a) considering a measure of strain that is more consistent with strain theory and (b) extending the examination to include graduate students. By utilizing an original data set of 1,121 undergraduate and graduate students at a Southern urban university, our overall results are consistent with general strain theory but mixed with respect to the role of academic strain in particular. The implications of our study for academic strain are discussed.
Two Measures of Interoceptive Sensibility and the Relationship With Introversion and Neuroticism in an Adult Population
Authors: Pearson Alison , Pfeifer Gaby
Published: October 2020

Interoception, the ability to detect internal bodily signals, is vital for an individual’s well-being and is increasingly connected to mental health disorders. Research investigating relationships between individual differences in interoception and personality types is limited, and mixed results are reported across a variety of interoceptive tasks, measures, and conceptualisations. Guided by biological theories, this study contributed further to the understanding of the relationship between interoception and personality by utilising two interoceptive measures. A sample of adults (N = 114) completed three questionnaires online questionnaire, two assessing interoceptive sensibility ( Body Perception Questionnaire, BPQ; and the Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness, MAIA) and one that assessed personality ( Eysenck Personality Inventory, EPI). Multiple regression and correlational analyses showed no significant relationship between interoceptive sensibility and introversion, whereas a predictive relationship was demonstrated between interoceptive sensibility and neuroticism. Furthermore, the BPQ and subscales of the MAIA predicted neuroticism in different directions suggesting the two measures assess different constructs and thus strengthened support for a multidimensional consideration of interoception. The results have clinical implications, including the targeting of contemplative training approaches for individuals demonstrating high interoceptive sensibility and neurotic traits to improve the mental well-being of healthy individuals and clinical populations.