bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Special Issue on Machine Accuracy Evaluation
Authors: Ibaraki Soichi , Archenti Andreas
Published: May 2020

The accuracy of a three-dimensional (3D) positioning system can ultimately be evaluated via measurement of a 3D vector between command and actual end-effector positions at arbitrary points over the entire workspace. This is a simple, yet challenging, metrological problem. The motion accuracy of a machine tool is traditionally evaluated on an axis-to-axis basis, with every error motion of every axis being independently measured as part of a one-dimensional measurement process in a different setup. Toward the ultimate goal of 3D position measurement over the entire workspace, research efforts have offered several new, practical measurement technologies.

This special issue covers the technical and academic efforts regarding the evaluation of machine tool accuracy. The papers in this special issue clarify the latest research frontiers regarding machine tool accuracy from a metrological viewpoint. In the first paper, by Montavon et al., error calibration technologies and their management are reviewed within the Internet of production concept. Long-term accuracy monitoring and management are clearly among the most crucial technical challenges faced regarding machine tools, and the work by Xing et al. is related to them. Ibaraki et al. presented machining tests to evaluate the thermal distortion of a machine tool. Peukert et al. studied the dynamic interaction between machine tools and their foundations. Various 3D measurement schemes for determining machine error motions have been investigated by many researchers, and some have been implemented in industrial applications. Kenno et al. and Florussen et al. investigated 3D measurement using the R-test for five-axis machines. Miller et al. studied simultaneous measurement of six-degree-of-freedom error motions of a linear axis. Nagao et al. presented an error calibration method for a parallel kinematic machine tool.

The editors appreciate the contributions of all the authors, as well as the work of the reviewers. We are confident that this special issue will further encourage research and engineering work for improving the accuracy and performance of machine tools.
Dynamic Interaction Between Precision Machine Tools and Their Foundations
Authors: Peukert Bernd W. ,   Manufacturing and Metrology Systems Division, Department of Production Engineering, KTH Royal Institute of Technology 68 Brinellvägen, Stockholm 10044, Sweden, Archenti Andreas
Published: May 2020

The manufacturing accuracy of modern machine tools strongly depends on the placement of the machine tool structure on the factory’s foundation. Civil engineering knows a variety of foundation types and factory planners must carefully consider local circumstances such as the size and the properties of the regional subsoil as well as the individual requirements of machine tools. Two of the major reasons for the effect of the foundation onto the machining accuracy are the added stiffness and the increased mass from the installation site’s foundation. A change of these characteristics greatly affects the dynamic characteristics of the overall machine tool and therefore also the machining dynamics. Although some general rules and guidelines exist for the design of foundations, their dynamic interaction with the supported precision machine tool structures is not well understood yet. This paper presents a series of measurements on two different types of machine tool foundations and highlights the characteristic differences in their dynamic interaction. It also proposes a novel approach to validate the conclusions with the use of foundation and machine tool scale models. These results can serve factory planners of precision targeting shop floors as a valuable guide for deciding on a suitable foundation for lowering the individual machine tool vibrations and/or reducing the dynamic interaction between closely located machine tools.
Simultaneous Constant Velocity Measurement of the Motion Errors of Linear Axes
Authors: Miller Jonathan , Fletcher Simon , Longstaff Andrew , Parkinson Simon ,   Machine Tool Technologies Ltd. 1H Ribble Court, 1 Meadway, Shuttleworth Mead Business Park, Padiham BB12 7NG, United Kingdom,   Centre for Precision Technologies (CPT), University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, United Kingdom
Published: May 2020

The current standard for machine tool calibration supports the use of quasi-static measurement techniques. When measuring the six degrees of freedom motion errors, the measurements are typically taken consecutively. This introduces uncertainty when comparing the results due to machine deformation during individual measurements. Furthermore, quasi-static measurement techniques are known to be time consuming, a problem that is exacerbated as each degree of freedom must be measured separately. Additionally, the spatial resolution between the selected target positions can have an impact on calibration quality. In the following paper, the benefits of measuring the six motion errors simultaneously while the axis under test is traversing at a nominally constant velocity are presented. Firstly, the motivation for simultaneous continuous capture is presented. Secondly, continuous motion measurements are compared with quasi-static measurements for the six degrees of freedom motion errors showing sub-micrometer and sub-arcsecond correlation. The full effect of a ball screw pitch error is shown which can be missed using traditional quasi-static measurement techniques. Finally, wavelet analysis is performed for further spatial diagnostics along with correlation coefficients calculated to quantify the linear dependency between the six error motions.
Machining Time Reduction by Tool Path Modification to Eliminate Air Cutting Motion for End Milling Operation
Authors: Nishida Isamu ,   Kobe University 1-1 Rokko-dai, Nada-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 657-8501, Japan, Shirase Keiichi
Published: May 2020

A method to uniquely calculate the tool path and to modify the tool path during air cutting motion to reduce the machining time is proposed. This study presents a contour line model, in which the product model is minutely divided on a plane along an axial direction, and the contour line of the cross-section of the product is superimposed. A method is then proposed to calculate the tool position according to the degree of interference between the product surface and the tool. Furthermore, this study proposes a technique to reduce the machining time by tool path modification during air cutting motion. This is determined by the geometric relationship between the product surface and the tool, and not based on cutting simulations. A cutting experiment was conducted to validate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Based on the results, it was confirmed that the difference in machining time between the tool path with modification and the tool path without modification was large. Moreover, the machining time was significantly reduced by the tool path modification. The results showed that the proposed method has good potential to perform customized manufacturing, and to realize both high productivity and reliability in machining operation.
Investigation of Temperature-Induced Errors in XCT Metrology
Authors: Katić Marko ,   Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, University of Zagreb 5 Ivana Lučića, Zagreb 10000, Croatia, Ferdelji Nenad , Šestan Danijel
Published: May 2020

The presented research shows the time dependent temperature distribution and thermal time constant within a typical industrial X-ray computed tomography (XCT) system used for dimensional metrology. Temperature effects can significantly affect measurement results of XCT scans either by directly changing the dimensions of the measurement object, or by indirectly changing the geometry of XCT scanner. In either case, the effect is not known well enough to be used for correction of measurement results or estimation of measurement uncertainty. In order to determine these effects, traceable temperature measurements were performed with a custom measurement system designed for this application. The influence of temperature fluctuations on length errors was determined by correlation of the measured temperature fluctuations with measurement deviations of a reference standard in repeated CT scans at different X-ray power levels. After experimental determination of X-ray focal spot displacement due to thermal expansion, a simple mathematical model of X-ray source displacement as a function of its temperature was developed and validated for a selected X-ray power level.
COVID-19 Orthopaedic Safe Care Toolset
Authors: Mi Bobin , Xiong Yuan , Lin Ze , Panayi Adriana C. , Chen Lang , Liu Guohui
Published: May 2020

The SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2) was reported in Wuhan, Hubei Province, People’s Republic of China, and, subsequently, in other provinces and regions across the People’s Republic of China and >212 countries. COVID-19, the disease caused by this coronavirus, was declared a worldwide pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO). The incidence of patients with fracture who are also positive for COVID-19 is on the rise. The diagnosis and management of such patients can be complicated as their clinical characteristics are heterogeneous. Furthermore, a surgical procedure can be particularly challenging given that the use of high-speed devices results in aerosol generation. In this study, we develop and propose globally applicable guidelines to fill this knowledge gap and we identify and propose the necessary protective strategies for medical personnel in an orthopaedic emergency department and in the inpatient wards. We also introduce diagnostic criteria, surgical complication management, and follow-up strategies for infected patients. These guidelines may be helpful to decrease the infection rate of orthopaedic trauma personnel and to provide diagnosis and treatment therapy for patients with fracture and COVID-19.
« The Bishop’s Candlesticks » : une certaine tradition de la réception hollywoodienne des Misérables
Authors: Szabo Fabrice
Published: May 2020

Lorsqu’il s’agit d’évoquer les adaptations des Misérables, l’énoncé le plus évident et le plus attendu est le suivant : c’est le destin de Jean Valjean. Pourtant il existe une toute première tradition cinématographique dans laquelle Les Misérables, c’est l’histoire des «Chandeliers de l’Evêque». Dans cet article, nous allons essayer de retrouver cette tradition, d’exhumer quelques films-jalons, en commençant par l’une des toutes premières adaptations du roman réalisée par Albert Capellani en 1906 ou encore celle de Lewis Milestone en 1953. L’essentiel de notre analyse se concentrera sur ce film dont l’originalité tient au fait qu’il propose une lecture conservatrice -au sens nord-américain du terme- du roman et qu’il constitue l’avatar le plus tardif de la tradition des «Chandeliers de l’Evêque».
Hidroterapia y actividad física terapéutica en el medio acuático
Authors: Salar Andreu Cristina
Published: May 2020

El agua es el medio donde el desarrollo evolutivo se ve favorecido desde la edad temprana (Moreno & Borges, 2009; Pansu, 2010; Penik, 2011). Desarrollar la competencia acuática se ha convertido en uno de los objetivos importantes a tratar desde la más tierna infancia, y sus efectos en el organismo desde la infancia hasta la edad adulta han sido demostrados desde hace décadas (Diem, 1978, 1982; Parker & Blanksby, 1997).
Si a estos beneficios se le añade el carácter terapéutico del medio, permite contemplar este recurso dentro de las áreas de la atención temprana, la pediatría, la neurología, las afecciones musculo-esqueléticas, el deporte, el suelo pélvico, etc. y en cualquier área donde la prevención y el tratamiento de la salud pueda ser abordado.
 
La Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS, 2002), define el término salud como “el estado completo de bienestar físico, mental y social y no la mera ausencia de enfermedad”. De ahí que afirmar que las prácticas acuáticas son beneficiosas, es confirmar la necesidad de que estas actividades formen parte de las experiencias que todo ser humano debiera tener en su vida, tanto en los procesos de salud como de enfermedad (Diem, Bresges & Hellmich, 1978; Fouace, 1979; Zuoziené, Akelyté & Zuoza, 2014)...
Bioinformatic screening for candidate biomarkers and their prognostic values in endometrial cancer
Authors: Li Yaowei , Li Li
Published: May 2020

Background:Endometrial cancer is a common gynecological cancer with annually increasing incidence worldwide. However, the biomarkers that provide prognosis and progression for this disease remain elusive.Methods:We analysed endometrial cancers mRNA and miRNA expression data from Gene Expression Omnibus, and searched for differentially expressed candidates, and subsequently validated them with the data from the Cancer Genome Atlas. The Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were performed using the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID). A protein-protein interaction network was constructed by STRING and visualized using Cytoscape. The prognostic values of the identified hub genes were measured with OncoLnc. In addition, miRecords was used to predict target genes of differentially expressed miRNAs, and finally a miRNA-mRNA regulatory network was constructed.Results:Two eligible human endometrial cancer datasets (GSE17025 and GSE25405) were selected for the study. A total of 520 differentially expressed mRNAs and 30 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified. These mRNAs were mainly enriched in cell cycle, skeletal system development, vasculature development, oocyte maturation, and oocyte meiosis signalling pathways. A total of 160 pairs of differentially expressed miRNAs and mRNAs, including 22 differentially expressed miRNAs and 71 overlapping differentially expressed mRNAs, were validated in endometrial cancer samples using starBase v2.0 project. The prognosis analysis revealed that Cyclin E1 (CCNE1, one of the 82 hub genes, which correlated with hsa-miR-195 and hsa-miR-424) was significantly linked to a worse overall survival in endometrial cancer patients.Conclusions:The hub genes and differentially expressed miRNAs identified in this study might be used as prognostic biomarkers for endometrial cancer and molecular targets for its treatment.
Applicability of logistic regression with sum-to-zero constraint parameterization in risk assessment for parotid malignancy
Authors: Cayetano Shari Messinger , Lo Kaming , Fundakowski Christopher , Sargi Zoukaa
Published: May 2020

The authors have withdrawn this preprint due to author disagreement.
The significance of the FTO gene on weight gain and body composition in young Swedish women with severe anorexia nervosa: a three-year follow-up study
Authors: Author) Anna Svedlund(New Corresponding , Tubic Bojan , Author) Anders Elfvin(Former Corresponding , Magnusson Per , Swolin-Eide Diana
Published: May 2020

The authors have withdrawn this preprint due to author disagreement.
The effect of treatment with a non-invasive foot worn biomechanical device on subjective and objective measures in patients with knee osteoarthritis- A retrospective analysis on a UK population
Authors: Miles Christopher , Greene Andrew
Published: May 2020

Background: Osteoarthritis is a major cause of pain and disability worldwide, therefore ways of treating this condition are paramount to a successful health system. The purpose of the study was to investigate the changes in spatial-temporal gait parameters and clinical measurements following treatment with a non-invasive foot-worn biomechanical device on patients with knee osteoarthritis within the UK. Methods: A retrospective analysis was carried out on 455 patients with knee osteoarthritis. All patients were evaluated using a computerized gait test and two self-assessment questionnaires (WOMAC and SF-36) at baseline and after 3 and 6 months of treatment. The biomechanical device is a shoe-like device with convex pods under the sole that have the capability of changing foot centre of pressure and training neuromuscular control. The device was individually calibrated for each patient to minimise symptoms whilst walking and train neuromuscular control. Patients used the device for short periods during activities of daily living. Repeated measures statistical analyses were performed to compare differences over time.Results: After 6 months of treatment significant improvements were seen in all gait parameters (p<0.01). Specifically, gait velocity, step length and single limb support of the more symptomatic knee improved by 13%, 7.8% and 3%, respectively. These were supported by significant improvements in pain, function and quality of life (48.6%, 45.7% and 22% respectively; p<0.001). A sub-group analysis revealed no baseline differences between those who were recommended joint replacement and those who were not. Both groups improved significantly over time (p<0.05 for all).Conclusions: Our results suggest that the personalised biomechanical treatment can improve gait patterns, pain, function and quality of life. It may provide an additional solution to managing UK patients suffering from knee osteoarthritis but needs to be tested in a controlled setting first.
Physicochemical and microbiological dynamics in composting of organic waste using a new bioreactor model
Authors: Gaspar Suelen , Assis Lucas , Carvalho carla , Ferreira Gustavo , Schwan Rosane , Pasqual Moacir , DORIA JOYCE
Published: May 2020

Background

It is important to use renewable resources to minimize the environmental risks and the composting is one of the most sustainable methods for the management of organic waste.
Methods

The objective of this work was to evaluate the physicochemical dynamics of microorganisms and to study cultivable microorganisms during the composting process of organic residues in a new model of bioreactor. The formulation of a possible cocktail of microorganisms selected for use as a compound accelerator will be further investigated. In addition, the use of two inoculants (non-commercial inoculum (NCI)) and commercial inoculum (CI)) and a control without inoculant during the composting process will be analyzed to evaluate its efficiency. Composting was performed by mixing organic waste from the garden waste and University Restaurant, obtaining an ideal C/N ratio of 30:1. The composting process was carried out in 1 m3 composters with controlled temperature and aeration.
Results

The thermophilic phase for all treatments was reached by the second day. Mature compost was obtained after an average of 120 days and composting in all treatments showed an increase in the availability of P and micronutrients. During composting, the population of bacteria and actinobacteria were higher than those of yeasts and filamentous fungi.
Conclusions

Increased composting efficiency was observed when starter cultures were used, the treatments presented advantages such as greater mineralization of P-available and micronutrients as Mn and Zn, in terms of the quality of the final product in comparison to the control treatment.
The Doctor’s Heart: A Qualitative Study Exploring Physicians’ Views on Their Professional Performance in Light of Excellence, Humanistic Practice and Accountability
Authors: Goor Myra van den , Boerebach Benjamin , Bindels Elisa , Heineman Maas Jan , Lombarts Kiki
Published: May 2020

Background In a field as high-stakes as health care, professional values have long been recognized as an essential mediating force for good medical practice. In the current era of changing market forces, anchoring these values in the professional performance of daily practice can be challenging. In this study we explored how physicians reflect upon their own professional performance and whether they feel they are performing to their best ability in light of excellence, humanistic practice and accountability. Methods We conducted a thematic analysis of written reflections from 786 hospital-based physicians, representing 35 specialties and 18 hospitals. Results When reflecting on their professional performance, physicians differentiated between (i) their calling for being a doctor, (ii) the translation of this calling into daily practice, and (iii) threats to their performance. Reflecting on humanistic practice triggered thoughts about the essence of being a physician in terms of calling, meaning and purpose. Physicians described concrete actions regarding pursuit of excellence and accountability. Furthermore, they suggested that their ability to perform optimally was put under pressure, mainly by heavy workloads and collaboration issues. This pressure negatively affected their calling for being a doctor and hampered the ability to be a humanistic practitioner. Conclusions In this large inventory of reflections, humanistic practice was recognized as the core value of being a physician. However, physicians feel high performance and the ability to act as a humanistic practitioner is hindered by heavy workloads and collaboration issues. Decreasing the clinical burden and reinforcing humanistic and relational aspects of care could foster an environment where physicians can perform optimally.
Clinical outcomes of Percutaneous Endoscopic Debridement and Drainage combined with Percutaneous Pedicle Screw Fixation for the treatment of Infective Spondylodiscitis
Authors: Liu Jingsong , Liu Daqian , An Gang , Guan Ying , Shi Xu , Wan Ran , Fan Yiming , Wang YanSong
Published: May 2020

Background: The morbidity of infectious spondylitis is increasing year by year in the elderly. Due to difficulties in coping with open surgery, we aim at presenting a treatment method for infectious spinal inflammation by the combination of Percutaneous Endoscopic Discectomy and Drainage (PEDD) and Percutaneous Pedicle Screw Fixation (PPSF) which obtained satisfactory outcomes in this study.Method: We have retrospectively analyzed 33 patients who had suffered from lumbar infectious spondylitis and undergone PEDD combined with the PPSF treatment. Biopsy specimen was taken from each of them during their operation and the specimen was submitted without delay for microculture. The dynamic change of patient clinical symptoms and their satisfaction degree were assessed by careful physical examination, regular serologic test, imaging study, Odom’s criteria, Frankel score, and visual analog scale (VAS).Result: Among the 33 patients, 22 (66.7%) had excellent symptom relief and the remaining 11 (33.3%) had good symptom relief after PEDD treatment according to Odom’s criteria. Additionally, PPSF was performed on 5 patients in the second stage, and yielded satisfactory result. There were no severe surgery-related complications. The microculture from 24 patients（72.7%）obtained from the operation were positive.Conclusion: PEDD and PPSF were under the influence of local anesthesia, which had lower requirements of patients’ general condition comparing to the traditional open surgery. In addition, PEDD obtained higher positive rate of microorganisms cultured comparing to other minimally invasive methods. PPSF was performed at the second stage to alleviate pain and further improve vertebral stability.
Accuracy of acetabular cup implantation, as a function of body mass index and soft-tissue thickness, with a mechanical intraoperative support device: A retrospective observational study
Authors: Suzuki Hayato , Imai Norio , Hirano Yuki , Endo Naoto
Published: May 2020

Background

HipCOMPASS, a mechanical intraoperative support device used in total hip arthroplasty (THA), improves the cup-alignment accuracy. However, alignment accuracy in obese patients has not been examined. We aimed to compare the cup-alignment accuracy, using HipCOMPASS, between patients with and without obesity.
Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 448 consecutive patients who underwent primary THA using HipCOMPASS. We measured the soft-tissue thickness of the anterior-superior iliac spine (ASIS) and pubic symphysis using preoperative computed tomography (CT) images and the difference in cup angle pre- and postoperatively based on the cup-alignment error on CT. We used Pearson coefficients to determine the correlation of body mass index (BMI) and soft-tissue thickness with cup-alignment error. We created receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves to determine the cutoff value for statistically significant cup-alignment error factors in radiographic inclination and anteversion of ≥ 5°.
Results

There were significant correlations between the absolute value of radiographic anteversion difference and BMI (r = 0.205), ASIS thickness (r = 0.419), and pubic symphysis thickness (r = 0.434). The absolute value of radiographic inclination difference was significantly correlated with ASIS (r = 0.257) and pubic symphysis thickness (r = 0.202). The ROC curve showed a pubic symphysis thickness of 37.2 mm for a ≥ 5° implantation error in both radiographic inclination and anteversion simultaneously. The cup-alignment error for HipCOMPASS was large in patients whose pubic symphysis thickness was ≥ 37.2 mm on preoperative CT.
Conclusion

We recommend using methods other than HipCOMPASS, including computed tomography-based navigation systems, in obese patients.
A novel technique of treating anterior cruciate ligament injury: combining the ACL reconstruction and repair.
Authors: Yang Yuan , Chen Kang , Feng Wenzhe , Zhu Weimin , Lai Yuxiao
Published: May 2020

Background

To illustrate a novel technique of treating anterior cruciate ligament injury.
Methods

If the ACL stump is strong enough and of good quality, we combine the ACL reconstruction and repair together.
Results

It is assumed that this will be better for the knee biomechanics in contrast to the simple reconstruction. This technique may also save the graft. That means we can only harvest one tendon gracilis or semitendinosus to satisfy the need of the knee stability.
Conclusions

This technique of combining the reconstruction and repair protects the knee proprioceptive feelings, accelerate the revascularization and strengthen the reconstructed ACL. This technique may also save the ligament graft and avoid the complications of the donor site. We are looking forward to comparing the outcomes of this technique to the outcomes of simple ACL reconstruction.
Febuxostat Reduces Muscle Wasting in Tumor-bearing Mice via Inhibition of Reacrive Oxygen Species Generation
Authors: Tsukamoto Tadashi , Tsujii Masaya , Odake Kazuya , Iino Takahiro , Nakamura Tomoki , Matsumine Akihiko , Sudo Akihiro
Published: May 2020

Background

To analyze the effects of the administration of febuxostat, a selective xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitor, on both in vitro and in vivo models of the waste of skeletal muscles, due to LM8 osteosarcoma cells.
Methods

C2C12 myotubes were incubated in the conditioned medium of LM8 osteosarcoma cells. At the same time, febuxostat was added at a concentration of 3 µM and 30 µM, and reactive oxygen species(ROS) was measured using 2’,7’-dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCF-DA) at 2 h and 24 h after exposure. Furthermore, an in vivo study was performed on male C3H mice (5 weeks old) that were subcutaneously injected with LM8 osteosarcoma cells on their backs. Febuxostat was administrated in the drinking water at a concentration of 5 µg/ml (group F5), and 25 µg/ml (group F25). In addition, tumor-bearing mice without febuxostat (group TB) and control mice (group C) were established. At 4 weeks after the inoculation of tumor cells, body weight, wet weights of the gastrocnemius muscles, XO activity, 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine(8-OHdG), and expression of TNF-α and IL-6 were evaluated and compared among the 4 groups.
Results

ROS generation was clearly observed in C2C12 myotubes following incubation in the conditioned medium of LM8 osteosarcoma cells. ROS generation was significantly inhibited by febuxostat administration. Furthermore, LM8-bearing mice showed significant loss of body weight and wet weight of the gastrocnemius muscles, in which XO activity, 8-OHdG, and expression of IL-6 were significantly increased compared to those in mice without injections of the tumor cells. Further, febuxostat administration not only significantly improved the body weight and wet weight of the skeletal muscles, but also reduced markers of oxidative stress and expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Febuxostat did not show anti-tumor effects, including inhibition of lung metastasis and improved overall survival.
Conclusion

Febuxostat, which is clinically used for treatment of hyperuricemia, is effective against the waste of the skeletal muscles induced by LM8 osteosarcoma cells.
The diagnostic accuracy of CT based “Banner cloud sign” for dural ossification in patients with thoracic ossification of the ligamentum flavum: a prospective, blinded, diagnostic accuracy study protocol
Authors: Chen Guanghui , Zhang Baoliang , Tao Liyuan , Chen Zhongqiang , Sun Chuiguo
Published: May 2020

Background

Ossification of the ligamentum flavum (OLF) is the most common cause of thoracic spinal stenosis, and responds poorly to conservative treatment, making surgery the only effective method. The existence of dural ossification (DO) makes surgery challenging and increases the risk of intra-/post-operative complications. To date, several methods have been proposed to identify DO, but either the diagnostic accuracy is low or the feasibility is poor. Therefore, the aim of this study is to propose a new imaging sign (Banner cloud sign, BCs), evaluate its diagnostic accuracy in the diagnosis of DO, and provide reliable evidence-based data for its application in clinical practice.
Methods

This will be a prospective, blinded, diagnostic accuracy study to assess and compare the accuracy of BCs in the diagnosis of DO with other radiologic signs (Tram track sign (TTs) and Comma sign (Cs)). A total of 120 patients who were diagnosed with OLF and underwent decompression in Peking University Third Hospital from January 2018 to June 2019 will be enrolled. Patients’ medical records and imaging data will be retrieved from the hospital database server. An observational group consisting of six spine surgeons of different seniority and two epidemiological researchers will read patients’ images to determine whether there are typical imaging signs and thus the presence of DO. Surgical records will be reviewed to confirm the presence of DO, and the results will serve as the reference standard for estimating accuracy. The primary outcome of the study is to determine the accuracy of BCs for DO diagnosis, and the secondary outcome is to compare the sensitivity, specificity, area under the ROC curve and inter-observer reliability of each imaging sign. The time taken and level of confidence in DO diagnosis of each observer will also be compared.
Discussion

This study represents the first large investigation of the diagnostic value of “BCs”, “TTs” and “Cs” in the diagnosis of DO, and will provide convincing evidence about their clinical application.
Trial registration:

Registered on 29 February 2020. Trial number is ChiCTR2000030380
French Adaptation of the Activity Impairment Assessment Score in Order to Assess the Activity Impairment of Women Presenting with Acute Uncomplicated Cystitis in Primary Care: Translation and Psychometric Validation.
Authors: VINCENT Yves-Marie , Duhart Mélanie , Su Alain Chen Yen , Micoulau-Franchi Jean-Arthur , Conort Guillaume
Published: May 2020

PurposeThe Activity Impairment Assessment (AIA) is a 5 items questionnaire exploring the impact of acute cystitis on daily activities. It’s a self-administrated tool easy to use in primary care studies. The purpose of this study is to translate and validate a French version of the AIA: the AIA-fr.MethodsWe use a forward-backward translation before to analyze the psychometric properties of the French version. We proceeded to a quantitative, prospective, observational multicentric study. King Health Questionnaire and Ditrovie scale were used to determine convergent and divergent validity. Following an inclusion visit, each file was completed by the patient on day 0, 3 and 5.ResultsFifty-two files were received by the investigator of which two empty files. In the end, 50 files were included in the study. There was a 100% response rate for the AIA-fr on days 0, 3 and 5. Cronbach’s alpha was calculated at 0.87 with a 95% confidence interval between 0.78 and 0.92. We found that this coefficient was not improved by removing one of the items (Cronbach’s alpha 0.81–0.87). There is a negative correlation (p = 0.01 Rs = − 0.35) between the total AIA-fr score and the number of days between symptom onset and consultation (day 0). This implies that the higher the AIA-fr score the sooner women will seek medical care.ConclusionsThe French version of the AIA is a psychometrically acceptable self-report questionnaire for measuring the impact of acute cystitis on daily activities. It’s the first French tool evaluating this impact.
Relationship between Serum Bilirubin Level and the Prevalence of Lung Cancer in Smokers
Authors: Liu Weilin , Fu Tian , Wei Le , Liu Chun , Li Mohan
Published: May 2020

Background

The correlation between serum bilirubin level and multiple respiratory system diseases including lung cancer has been reported. We aimed to explore the relationship between serum bilirubin level and the prevalence of lung cancer among smokers in China.
Methods

We designed a retrospective case-control study and enrolled 266 lung cancer patients and 266 matched controls from The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University from February 2011 to May 2017. Data including diagnosis, serum bilirubin levels and smoking history were collected, which consistently showed significant differential in cases and controls.
Results

Lower total and indirect bilirubin level is correlated with smoking but they can be recuperating after cessation. The average bilirubin level in lung cancer patients was lower than matched controls. Low indirect bilirubin level within normal range is the risk factor of lung cancer in smokers (OR = 2.710). Of note, smokers whose serum bilirubin lower than 7.88 µmol / L has a higher risk of lung cancer in Chinese adults.
Conclusions

Serum indirect bilirubin level would be a screening predictor to identify higher risk smokers of lung cancer.
Prediction of potential prognostic biomarkers in metastatic prostate cancer based on a competing endogenous RNA regulatory network
Authors: Luo Liang , Tao Wen , He Tao , li liao-yuan
Published: May 2020

Background

Recently, studies on competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks were becoming prevalent, and circular RNAs (circRNA) have crucial implications for the development and progression of carcinoma. However, studies relevant to metastatic prostate cancer (mPCa) are scanty.
Methods

RNA-Seq data was obtained from MiOncoCirc database and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). Differential expression patterns of RNAs were examined using R packages. Circular RNA Interactome, miRTarBase, miRDB and TargetScan were applied to predicting the corresponding relation between circRNAs, miRNAs and mRNAs. The Gene Ontology (GO) annotations were performed to present related GO terms, and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) tools were applied for pathway annotations. Moreover, survival analysis was conducted for hub genes.
Results

We found 820 circRNAs, 81 miRNAs and 179 mRNAs, which were distinguishingly expressed between primary prostate cancer (PCa) and mPCa samples. A ceRNA network including 45 circRNAs, 24 miRNAs and 56 mRNAs was constructed. Besides, the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was built up, and 10 hub genes were selected by using CytoHubba application. Among the 10 hub genes, survival analysis showed ITGA1, LMOD1, MYH11, MYLK, SORBS1 and TGFBR3 were significantly connected with disease-free survival (DFS).
Conclusion

The circRNA-mediated ceRNA network provides potential prognostic biomarkers for metastatic prostate cancer .
Mathematical study for the phase-based transmissibility of a novel COVID-19 Coronavirus
Authors: HAJJI Miled EL , SAYARI Sayed , ZAGHDANI Abdelhamid
Published: May 2020

In this paper, a mathematical dynamical system modeling a SEIRW model of infectious disease transmission for a transmissibility of a novel COVID-19 Coronavirus is studied. A qualitative analysis such as the local and global stability of equilibrium points is carried out.It is proved that if $\R \leq 1$, then the disease-free equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable and if $\R > 1$, then the disease-persistence equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable.
COVID-19 is a risk factor for severe liver damage for patients with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy: a case report
Authors: Ai Ling , Wei Jia , Wang Shaofang , Tan Xi , Yan Li , Liu Shangkun , Yang Liu , Luo Ailin , Xu Hui
Published: May 2020

Background: Patients with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) may present with slight liver damage. In the global outbreak, the number of pregnant women infected with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is increasing. For the pregnant patients with ICP, COVID-19 may cause severe liver damage.Case presentation: A 31-year-old pregnant woman was admitted with fever and respiratory symptoms to Tongji Hospital in Wuhan amid the outbreak of COVID-19. Her chest CT scan showed an infection with viral pneumonia as multiple ground glass opacities in both lungs were spotted. Laboratory tests revealed increased white blood cell (WBC) count and decreased lymphocyte count. The levels of serum total bile acid (TBA) were highly elvated. So were the indices of liver function, including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total bilirubin (TBIL), direct bilirubin (DBIL), alkaline phosphatase (AKP), 𝛄-glutamyltranspeptidase (𝛄-GT), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). The patient was later diagnosed of COVID-19 with comorbid ICP, presenting severe liver damage. Through timely termination of pregnancy and effective treatments, the prognoses of the patient and the fetus were well improved.Conclusions: This case highlights that COVID-19 may be a risk factor of severe liver damage for patients with ICP.Timely termination of pregnancy and effective symptomatic treatments are helpful to improve the progonosis.
Structural modeling of the impact of bank nonperforming loans on the banking sector: the Ukrainian experience
Authors: Bondarenko Eugenia , Zhuravka Olena , O. Aiyedogbon John , Emmanuel Sunday Ologunla , Andrieieva Vita
Published: May 2020

The paper aims to develop scientific and methodological approach to assessing the interaction of nonperforming loans of Ukrainian banking institutions, the profitability of the banking sector and its financial stability, which will allow a more detailed assessment of the directions and degree of mutual influence of these elements. To substantiate this interaction economically and mathematically, structural equation modeling was chosen. Particularly, Statistica was chosen as a software tool to assess the adequacy of the resulting model and determine the level of statistical significance of its parameters. Six key indicators were selected as a research information base, two for each subject of research: indicators of nonperforming loans in the banking sector (the volume of nonperforming loans and the ratio of problem loans excluding capital reserves), profitability indicators of the Ukrainian banking sector (assets profit and rate of return on capital), and indicators of financial stability of the Ukrainian banking sector (regulatory capital-to-risk-weighted assets ratio and liquid assets-to-total assets ratio). For calculations, statistic data of selected indicators for 2005–2019 were used. As a result of calculations, mathematical data were obtained that accurately described the interaction of nonperforming loans of Ukrainian banking institutions, the profitability of the banking sector and its financial stability. The adequacy of the model was verified based on the following criteria: main summary statistics (ICSF criterion, ICS criterion, discrepancy function, maximum residual cosine), noncentrality fit indices (noncentrality parameter, population noncentrality parameter, Steiger-Lind RMSEA index, McDonald noncentrality index, adjusted population Gamma index), other single sample indices (Akaike information criterion, Schwarz criterion), and a normal probability plot.
Estimating the Ukrainian companies’ financial potential and the probability of forced liquidation
Authors: Nusinov Volodymyr , Burkova Liudmyla , Shura Natalia
Published: May 2020

The development of a global economy is impossible without economic ups and downs, which disrupt economic stability. The growth of the crisis in Ukrainian companies is no exception. In world practice, there are many methods for estimating the possibility of companies’ bankruptcy. At the same time, there are no methodological approaches to setting up the possible commencement of company’s liquidation during its bankruptcy. The article aims to develop a methodology for estimating the possibility of company’s liquidation due to the introduction of its bankruptcy procedure and to determine the financial potential of the company based on the Ukrainian economy. Statistical surveys about the activities of Ukrainian companies were conducted. Using a discriminant analysis, a four-factor model for estimating the possibility of companies’ liquidation undergoing bankruptcy was developed. An appropriate scale has been constructed to interpret the values obtained using the collective expert estimation method. The matrix method was applied to construct matrices of pairwise comparison for the results of qualitative assessment.It has been proposed to assess the liquidation of a company by determining the conditional probability of such liquidation. A matrix of the pairwise comparison of the qualitative assessment results has been constructed for the company’s bankruptcy procedure commencement probability and that for the company’s liquidation procedure commencement. It has been substantiated that the level of the company’s financial potential is the reverse indicator of the probability value for the bankruptcy and the liquidation of that company. Matrices have been constructed that qualitatively assess probabilistic level of the financial potential both for the companies at the bankruptcy stage and for those whose bankruptcy procedure has not yet begun. The results of the testing confirm the correctness of the proposed methods and the expediency of their application.
Upper echelons’ personality traits and corporate earnings management in Nigeria
Authors: Taofiki Akinwumi Taleatu , Dorcas Titilayo Adetula , Francis Odianonsen Iyoha
Published: May 2020

Earnings management offers an opportunity to hide frauds, which are often associated with key officials of corporate entities. Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) and Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) have been implicated in fraudulent earnings management. This study aims to investigate the effect of CFOs’ personality traits on earnings management in non-listed companies facing a debt crisis in Nigeria. The study explores a survey research method involving the administration of copies of a structured questionnaire on CFOs of the sampled companies. Statistical analysis includes computation of means, linear and multiple regression analyses. The findings reveal a high level of upward corporate earnings management and a strong exhibition of narcissistic trait among the CFOs. It was further observed that CFOs’ narcissistic trait is implicated in upward earnings management during the financial crisis. Possible economic implications of these outcomes include misallocation of resources by investors and aggravation of corporate debt crisis. These outcomes have policy implications on the appointment of corporate key officials and the accounting education curriculum. Consequently, the study recommends the personality trait test for individuals to be appointed into upper echelons’ positions in corporate organizations, as well as the inclusion of Element of Psychology in the curriculum of accounting education in Nigeria.
AcknowledgmentOur sincere gratitude goes to Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria, for sponsoring the publication of this research paper as a contribution to the body of existing knowledge in corporate financial reporting in Nigeria.
ŞEMSEDDİN SAMİ’NİN KAMUS-I ARABÎ ADLI SÖZLÜĞÜNÜN SÖZLÜK BİLİMİ AÇISINDAN İNCELENMESİ
Authors: JARADAT Saleh
Published: May 2020

Kaşgarlı Mahmut ile beraber 11. yüzyılda başlayan ve bugüne kadar gelişmekte olan Türk sözlükçülük çalışmaları içerisinde Şemseddin Sami’nin çalışmaları büyük bir öneme sahip olmuştur. Şemseddin Sami’nin Türk sözlükçülüğüne getirdiği yenilikler, Kamus-ı Türkî, Kamus-ı Fransevî ve Kamus-ı Arabî gibi yazdığı sözlüklerde kendini göstermektedir. Bu çalışmada, Şemseddin Sami tarafından 1895 yılında yazımına başlanıp tamamlanamayan Kamus-ı Arabî: Arapçadan Türkçeye Mükemmel Bir Lügat adlı Kitabı tanıtılmaya çalışılmıştır. Bu çalışmada, Kamus-ı Arabî bağlamında sözlüğün türü, madde başlarının türü, maddelerin düzenlenmesi, sözlüğün parçacıl yapısındaki yazım, sesletim bilgileri, dil bilgisel bilgiler, tanım yöntemleri, maddelerin köken bilgisi, kullanım bilgisi, tanımda kullanılan örnekler ve sözlük içi göndermeler ele alınarak modern sözlük bilimi açısından incelenmiştir.
Annual runoff prediction in the source area of the Yellow River based on structure change co-integration theory
Authors: Zhang Jinping , Li Hongbin , Sun Bin , Fang Hongyuan
Published: May 2020

Aiming at revealing the co-integration under structural change in the long-run relationship between rainfall and runoff time series at Tangnaihai Hydrological Station in the source area of the Yellow River, and improving the accuracy of annual runoff prediction, co-integration theory and structure change co-integration theory are introduced respectively. The error correction models of rainfall and runoff in these two cases are constructed. The results show that reservoir construction and climate change can cause structure change in the long-run relationship between rainfall and runoff in the source area of the Yellow River. The breakpoints appeared in 1989 and 2002, in which the breakpoint in 1989 is mainly effected by reservoir construction while in 2002 it is effected by rainfall changes. Meanwhile, the error correction model with structural change shows that the impact of rainfall on runoff decreases from 1989 but increases from 2002. Finally, for the prediction of runoff in the next five years, the mean absolute percentage errors of the prediction models without and with breakpoints are 11.04% and 7.08% respectively, and this shows that the error correction model with structural change has the higher runoff prediction accuracy.
Laudacja wygłoszona 11 grudnia 2015 r. podczas uroczystości Jubileuszu Pana Profesora Jakuba Pokory przez prof. Christine Moisan-Jablonski
Authors: Moisan-Jablonski Christine
Published: May 2020

Laudacja wygłoszona 11 grudnia 2015 r. podczas uroczystości Jubileuszu Pana Profesora Jakuba Pokory przez prof. Christine Moisan-Jablonski.

The laudation made by prof. Christine Moisan-Jablonski at the Jubilee of Prof. Jakub Pokora on 11th of December 2015.