bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a conceptual model of childhood asthma to inform asthma prevention policies
Authors: Adibi Amin , Turvey Stuart E , Lee Tae Yoon , Sears Malcolm R , Becker Allen B , Mandhane Piush J , Moraes Theo J , Subbarao Padmaja , Sadatsafavi Mohsen
Published: November 2021

Background

There is no definitive cure for asthma, as prevention remains a major goal. Decision analytic models are routinely used to evaluate the value-for-money proposition of interventions. Following best practice standards in decision-analytic modelling, the objective of this study was to solicit expert opinion to develop a concept map for a policy model for primary prevention of asthma.

Methods

We reviewed currently available decision analytic models for asthma prevention. A steering committee of economic modellers, allergists and respirologists was then convened to draft a conceptual model of paediatric asthma. A modified Delphi method was followed to define the context of the problem at hand (evaluation of asthma prevention strategies) and develop the concept map of the model.

Results

Consensus was achieved after three rounds of discussions, followed by concealed voting. In the final conceptual model, asthma diagnosis was based on three domains of lung function, atopy and their symptoms. The panel recommended several markers for each domain. These domains were in turn affected by several risk factors. The panel clustered all risk factors under three groups of ‘patient characteristic’, ‘family history’ and ‘environmental factors’. To be capable of modelling the interplay among risk factors, the panel recommended the use of microsimulation, with an open-population approach that would enable modelling phased implementation and gradual and incomplete uptake of the intervention.

Conclusions

Economic evaluation of childhood interventions for preventing asthma will require modelling of several codependent risk factors and multiple domains that affect the diagnosis. The conceptual model can inform the development and validation of a policy model for childhood asthma prevention.
Improving the early identification of COVID-19 pneumonia: a narrative review
Authors: Goyal Daniel , Inada-Kim Matthew , Mansab Fatam , Iqbal Amir , McKinstry Brian , Naasan Adeeb P , Millar Colin , Thomas Stephen , Bhatti Sohail , Lasserson Daniel , Burke Derek
Published: November 2021

Delayed presentation of COVID-19 pneumonia increases the risk of mortality and need for high-intensity healthcare. Conversely, early identification of COVID-19 pneumonia grants an opportunity to intervene early and thus prevent more complicated, protracted and less successful hospital admissions. To improve the earlier detection of COVID-19 pneumonia in the community we provide a narrative review of current evidence examining the clinical parameters associated with early disease progression. Through an evolving literature review, we examined: the symptoms that may suggest COVID-19 progression; the timing of deterioration; the utility of basic observations, clinical examination and chest X-ray; the value of postexertion oxygen saturations; and the use of CRP to monitor disease progression. We go on to discuss the challenges in monitoring the COVID-19 patient in the community and discuss thresholds for further assessment. Confusion, persistent fever and shortness of breath were identified as worrying symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 disease progression necessitating urgent clinical contact. Importantly, a significant proportion of COVID-19 pneumonia patients appear not to suffer dyspnoea despite severe disease. Patients with this asymptomatic hypoxia seem to have a poorer prognosis. Such patients may present with other signs of hypoxia: severe fatigue, exertional fatigue and/or altered mental status. We found duration of symptoms to be largely unhelpful in determining risk, with evidence of deterioration at any point in the disease. Basic clinical parameters (pulse, respiratory rate, blood pressure, temperature and oxygen saturations (SpO2)) are likely of high value in detecting the deteriorating community COVID-19 patient and/or COVID-19 mimickers/complications (eg, sepsis, bacterial pneumonia and pulmonary embolism). Of these, SpO2carried the greatest utility in detecting COVID-19 progression. CRP is an early biochemical parameter predictive of disease progression and used appropriately is likely to contribute to the early identification of COVID-19 pneumonia. Identifying progressive COVID-19 in the community is feasible using basic clinical questions and measurements. As such, if we are to limit the mortality, morbidity and the need for complicated, protracted admissions, monitoring community COVID-19 cases for signs of deterioration to facilitate early intervention is a viable strategy.
Personalised risk prediction following emergency department assessment for syncope
Authors: Thiruganasambandamoorthy Venkatesh , Yan Justin W , Rowe Brian H , Mercier Éric , Le Sage Natalie , Hegdekar Mona , Finlayson Anne , Huang Paul , Mohammad Hassan , Mukarram Muhammad , Nguyen Phuong Anh (Iris) , Syed Shahbaz , McRae Andrew D , Nemnom Marie-Joe , Taljaard Monica , Silviotti Marco LA
Published: November 2021

Background

Published risk tools do not provide possible management options for syncope in the emergency department (ED). Using the 30-day observed risk estimates based on the Canadian Syncope Risk Score (CSRS), we developed personalised risk prediction to guide management decisions.

Methods

We pooled previously reported data from two large cohort studies, the CSRS derivation and validation cohorts, that prospectively enrolled adults (≥16 years) with syncope at 11 Canadian EDs between 2010 and 2018. Using this larger cohort, we calculated the CSRS calibration and discrimination, and determined with greater precision than in previous studies the 30-day risk of adjudicated serious outcomes not identified during the index ED evaluation depending on the CSRS and the risk category. Based on these findings, we developed an on-line calculator and pictorial decision aids.

Results

8233 patients were included of whom 295 (3.6%, 95% CI 3.2% to 4.0%) experienced 30-day serious outcomes. The calibration slope was 1.0, and the area under the curve was 0.88 (95% CI 0.87 to 0.91). The observed risk increased from 0.3% (95% CI 0.2% to 0.5%) in the very-low-risk group (CSRS −3 to –2) to 42.7% (95% CI 35.0% to 50.7%), in the very-high-risk (CSRS≥+6) group (Cochrane-Armitage trend test p<0.001). Among the very-low and low-risk patients (score −3 to 0), ≤1.0% had any serious outcome, there was one death due to sepsis and none suffered a ventricular arrhythmia. Among the medium-risk patients (score +1 to+3), 7.8% had serious outcomes, with <1% death, and a serious outcome was present in >20% of high/very-high-risk patients (score +4 to+11) including 4%–6% deaths. The online calculator and the pictorial aids can be found at:https://teamvenk.com/csrs

Conclusions

30-day observed risk estimates from a large cohort of patients can be obtained for management decision-making. Our work suggests very-low-risk and low-risk patients may be discharged, discussion with patients regarding investigations and disposition are needed for medium-risk patients, and high-risk patients should be hospitalised. The online calculator, accompanied by pictorial decision aids for the CSRS, may assist in discussion with patients.
COVID-19 rapid diagnostics: practice review
Authors: Reynard Charles , Allen Joy A , Shinkins Bethany , Prestwich Graham , Goves Johnathan , Davies Kerrie , Body Richard
Published: November 2021

Point-of-care tests for SARS-CoV-2 could enable rapid rule-in and/or rule-out of COVID-19, allowing rapid and accurate patient cohorting and potentially reducing the risk of nosocomial transmission. As COVID-19 begins to circulate with other more common respiratory viruses, there is a need for rapid diagnostics to help clinicians test for multiple potential causative organisms simultaneously.

However, the different technologies available have strengths and weaknesses that must be understood to ensure that they are used to the benefit of the patient and healthcare system. Device performance is related to the deployed context, and the diagnostic characteristics may be affected by user experience.

This practice review is written by members of the UK’s COVID-19 National Diagnostic Research and Evaluation programme. We discuss relative merits and test characteristics of various commercially available technologies. We do not advocate for any given test, and our coverage of commercially supplied tests is not intended to be exhaustive.
Alcohol-impaired driving among adults—USA, 2014–2018
Authors: Barry Vaughn , Schumacher Amy , Sauber-Schatz Erin
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Alcohol-impaired driving (AID) crashes accounted for 10 511 deaths in the USA in 2018, or 29% of all motor vehicle-related crash deaths. This study describes self-reported AID in the USA during 2014, 2016 and 2018 and determines AID-related demographic and behavioural characteristics.

Methods

Data were from the nationally representative Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. Adults were asked ‘During the past 30 days, how many times have you driven when you have had perhaps too much to drink?’ AID prevalence, episode counts and rates per 1000 population were estimated using annualised individual AID episodes and weighted survey population estimates. Results were stratified by characteristics including gender, binge drinking, seatbelt use and healthcare engagement.

Results

Nationally, 1.7% of adults engaged in AID during the preceding 30 days in 2014, 2.1% in 2016 and 1.7% in 2018. Estimated annual number of AID episodes varied across year (2014: 111 million, 2016: 186 million, 2018: 147 million) and represented 3.7 million, 4.9 million and 4.0 million adults, respectively. Corresponding yearly episode rates (95% CIs) were 452 (412–492) in 2014, 741 (676–806) in 2016 and 574 (491–657) in 2018 per 1000 population. Among those reporting AID in 2018, 80% were men, 86% reported binge drinking, 47% did not always use seatbelts and 60% saw physicians for routine check-ups within the past year.

Conclusions

Although AID episodes declined from 2016 to 2018, AID was still prevalent and more common among men and those who binge drink. Most reporting AID received routine healthcare. Proven AID-reducing strategies exist.
Lessons learnt from multifaceted diagnostic approaches to the first 150 families in Victoria’s Undiagnosed Diseases Program
Authors: Cloney Thomas , Gallacher Lyndon , Pais Lynn S , Tan Natalie B , Yeung Alison , Stark Zornitza , Brown Natasha J , McGillivray George , Delatycki Martin B , de Silva Michelle G , Downie Lilian , Stutterd Chloe A , Elliott Justine , Compton Alison G , Lovgren Alysia , Oertel Ralph , Francis David , Bell Katrina M , Sadedin Simon , Lim Sze Chern , Helman Guy , Simons Cas , Macarthur Daniel G , Thorburn David R , O'Donnell-Luria Anne H , Christodoulou John , White Susan M , Tan Tiong Yang
Published: November 2021

Background

Clinical exome sequencing typically achieves diagnostic yields of 30%–57.5% in individuals with monogenic rare diseases. Undiagnosed diseases programmes implement strategies to improve diagnostic outcomes for these individuals.

Aim

We share the lessons learnt from the first 3 years of the Undiagnosed Diseases Program-Victoria, an Australian programme embedded within a clinical genetics service in the state of Victoria with a focus on paediatric rare diseases.

Methods

We enrolled families who remained without a diagnosis after clinical genomic (panel, exome or genome) sequencing between 2016 and 2018. We used family-based exome sequencing (family ES), family-based genome sequencing (family GS), RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and high-resolution chromosomal microarray (CMA) with research-based analysis.

Results

In 150 families, we achieved a diagnosis or strong candidate in 64 (42.7%) (37 in known genes with a consistent phenotype, 3 in known genes with a novel phenotype and 24 in novel disease genes). Fifty-four diagnoses or strong candidates were made by family ES, six by family GS with RNA-seq, two by high-resolution CMA and two by data reanalysis.

Conclusion

We share our lessons learnt from the programme. Flexible implementation of multiple strategies allowed for scalability and response to the availability of new technologies. Broad implementation of family ES with research-based analysis showed promising yields post a negative clinical singleton ES. RNA-seq offered multiple benefits in family ES-negative populations. International data sharing strategies were critical in facilitating collaborations to establish novel disease–gene associations. Finally, the integrated approach of a multiskilled, multidisciplinary team was fundamental to having diverse perspectives and strategic decision-making.
Bi-allelic loss-of-function variants inKIF21Acause severe fetal akinesia with arthrogryposis multiplex
Authors: Falb Ruth J , Müller Amelie J , Klein Wolfram , Grimmel Mona , Grasshoff Ute , Spranger Stephanie , Stöbe Petra , Gauck Darja , Kuechler Alma , Dikow Nicola , Schwaibold Eva M C , Schmidt Christoph , Averdunk Luisa , Buchert Rebecca , Heinrich Tilman , Prodan Natalia , Park Joohyun , Kehrer Martin , Sturm Marc , Kelemen Olga , Hartmann Silke , Horn Denise , Emmerich Dirk , Hirt Nina , Neumann Armin , Kristiansen Glen , Gembruch Ulrich , Haen Susanne , Siebert Reiner , Hentze Sabine , Hoopmann Markus , Ossowski Stephan , Waldmüller Stephan , Beck-Wödl Stefanie , Gläser Dieter , Tekesin Ismail , Distelmaier Felix , Riess Olaf , Kagan Karl-Oliver , Dufke Andreas , Haack Tobias B
Published: November 2021

Background

Fetal akinesia (FA) results in variable clinical presentations and has been associated with more than 166 different disease loci. However, the underlying molecular cause remains unclear in many individuals. We aimed to further define the set of genes involved.

Methods

We performed in-depth clinical characterisation and exome sequencing on a cohort of 23 FA index cases sharing arthrogryposis as a common feature.

Results

We identified likely pathogenic or pathogenic variants in 12 different established disease genes explaining the disease phenotype in 13 index cases and report 12 novel variants. In the unsolved families, a search for recessive-type variants affecting the same gene was performed; and in five affected fetuses of two unrelated families, a homozygous loss-of-function variant in thekinesin family member 21Agene (KIF21A) was found.

Conclusion

Our study underlines the broad locus heterogeneity of FA with well-established and atypical genotype–phenotype associations. We describeKIF21Aas a new factor implicated in the pathogenesis of severe neurogenic FA sequence with arthrogryposis of multiple joints, pulmonary hypoplasia and facial dysmorphisms. This hypothesis is further corroborated by a recent report on overlapping phenotypes observed in Kif21a null piglets.
‘Living in a Material World’:Frankensteinand new materialism
Authors: Hall Jasmine Yong
Published: November 2021

This paper uses concepts from Karen Barad’s theories from quantum physics and other theoretical approaches from new materialism to show howFrankensteincan be used to introduce this new framework and to challenge an older one based on dualism, representationalism and individualism. A new ethical understanding of the message of the text emerges from this reading—one that rethinks the prohibitions against ‘playing God’ or creating the unnatural and relies instead on an ethics of care.
Sexual exposure and sexual behaviour in the interval between gonorrhoea treatment and test of cure: a cross-sectional cohort study
Authors: Ayinde Oluseyi , Ross Jonathan D C
Published: November 2021

Objectives

We explored sexual contact in the interval between the treatment for gonorrhoea and attending for a test of cure (ToC) and identified factors associated with sexual contact in this period.

Methods

Multivariable analysis of demographic, behavioural and clinical data with self-reported sexual contact prior to attending for a gonorrhoea ToC evaluation among participants recruited into the ‘Gentamicin for the Treatment of Gonorrhoea’ trial in England, between October 2014 and November 2016. Associations with sexual contact were expressed as prevalence ratios (PR) and their corresponding 95% CI.

Results

The median time to ToC was 15 days (interquartile range 14–20 days). 197/540 (37%) participants reported sexual contact in the time between treatment and ToC. Of these, 173/197 (88%) participants reported inconsistent condom use, including with previous partners (133/197 (68%)). A history of gonorrhoea (adjusted PR (aPR) 1.32 (1.03 to 1.69)) or syphilis (aPR 1.19 (1.08 to 1.32)), being in regular (aPR 1.71 (1.41 to 2.09)) sexual relationships, high number of partners in the last 3 months (aPR 1.77 (1.25 to 2.51))—‘more than 5 partners’ vs ‘0 to 1 partner’, and attending for a ToC more than 14 days after treatment (aPR 1.40 (1.08 to 1. 81)) were associated with reporting sexual contact before the ToC appointment. However, age (aPR (1.00 (0.99 to 1.01)) and presenting with specific symptoms at baseline (aPR 1.17 (0.95 to 1.44)) were not associated with sexual contact by the ToC attendance.

Conclusion

Sexual activity after receiving treatment for gonorrhoea and prior to a ToC evaluation was common. This was associated with previous infection history and specific behavioural characteristics. Knowledge of these factors can help guide safe sex counselling at the time of treatment.
Weed emergence and seedbank after three years of repetitive shallow cultivation in a muck soil field
Authors: Simard Marie-Josée , Nurse Robert E. , Minville Audrey-Kim , Maheux Lydia , Laforest Martin , Obeid Kristen
Published: November 2021

Frequent cultivation is often used to control weeds in crops such as lettuce. The efficacy of this technique on weed populations has been evaluated, but the effect on weed emergence and seedbanks is less documented. Studies in mineral soil indicate that soil disturbance can increase both weed emergence and seed persistence depending on where seeds are redistributed in the soil profile. Evaluations done in muck soil are scarce. This study evaluated the effect of two and four repetitive shallow (3.4 to 7.1 cm deep) cultivations on weed emergence and the weed seedbank in muck soil. Cultivation treatments (0, 2, and 4 cultivations using a inter-row rototiller) were done in lettuce plots from 2017 to 2019. Weed density was evaluated by species before each cultivation date and after crop harvest. Viable seedbanks were evaluated by collecting soil samples before and after each growing season and placing them in greenhouse flats. Statistical analyses were based on mixed models. Results showed that shallow cultivation modified the emergence patterns of weeds but did not reduce total emergence during the subsequent years or viable seedbanks. After two seasons without seed inputs, total emergence was reduced by 46.6% and the seedbank was reduced by 31.7% regardless of the cultivation treatment. However, the seedbank of the very abundant common purslane (Portulaca oleracea) remained high.
Generalized exponential rational function for distinct types solutions to the conformable resonant Schrödinger’s equation
Authors: Eslami M. , Neirameh A.
Published: November 2021

The generalized exponential rational function method, which is one of the strong methods for solving nonlinear evolution equations, is applied to the conformable resonant nonlinear Schrödinger’s equation in this study. This equation plays a significant role in nonlinear fiber optics. It also has many important applications in photonic crystal fibers. The procedure implemented in this paper can be recommended in solving other equations in the field. All calculations and graphing are performed using powerful symbolic computational packages in Mathematica software. All calculations and graphing are performed using powerful symbolic computational packages in Mathematica software.
An averaging principle for neutral stochastic fractional order differential equations with variable delays driven by Lévy noise
Authors: Shen Guangjun , Wu Jiang-Lun , Xiao Ruidong , Yin Xiuwei
Published: November 2021

In this paper, we establish an averaging principle for neutral stochastic fractional differential equations with non-Lipschitz coefficients and with variable delays, driven by Lévy noise. Our result shows that the solutions of the equations concerned can be approximated by the solutions of averaged neutral stochastic fractional differential equations in the sense of convergence in mean square. As an application, we present an example with numerical simulations to explore the established averaging principle.
AUGMENTED REALITY NAVIGATION FRAMEWORK FOR TOTAL HIP ARTHROPLASTY SURGERY
Authors: ZHANG RIWEI , SHEN JUN , LIU QUANQUAN , QI YONG , WU XIAODONG , CAI SHUTING , GUO JING , XIONG XIAO MING
Published: November 2021

In a total hip arthroplasty surgery, correctly implanting the artificial acetabulum and the femoral head is essential for a successful treatment. An augmented reality (AR) navigation framework is proposed in this paper to provide accurate surgical guidance in a total hip arthroplasty procedure. The AR framework consists of three parts: (1) preoperative surgical planning to generate virtual information for AR; (2) computer vision-based tracking for the real-time localization of both acetabular cup positioner and bony landmarks during surgery; (3) registration of a virtual object onto a real-world operative field to properly overlay the preoperative surgical planning data onto a three-dimensional (3D)-printed pelvis model. The cost-effective framework is designed with our clinical partner based on real surgical conditions. The bony landmarks are automatically detected and used for the registration between virtual and real objects. The AR performance is evaluated with a pelvis model, and it presents mean errors of 2.2[Formula: see text]mm and 0.8∘ in position and orientation, respectively, between real and virtual spaces. These small errors are within the tolerance of positive surgical outcomes.
Supersingular j-invariants and the class number of ℚ(−p)
Authors: Xiao Guanju , Luo Lixia , Deng Yingpu
Published: November 2021

Let [Formula: see text] be a prime. Let [Formula: see text] be the discriminant of an imaginary quadratic order. Assume that [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. We compute the number of [Formula: see text]-roots of the class polynomials [Formula: see text]. Suppose [Formula: see text], we prove that two class polynomials [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] have a common root in [Formula: see text] if and only if [Formula: see text] is a perfect square. Furthermore, any three class polynomials do not have a common root in [Formula: see text]. As an application, we propose a deterministic algorithm for computing the class number of [Formula: see text].
Total i̇rregulari̇ty of fractal graphs
Authors: Berberler Zeynep Nihan
Published: November 2021

The irregularity of a simple undirected graph [Formula: see text] is defined as [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] denotes the degree of a vertex [Formula: see text]. The total irregularity of a graph as a new measure of graph irregularity is defined as [Formula: see text]. In this paper, the irregularity and the total irregularity of fractal graphs and the derived graphs from a class of fractal graphs are investigated. Exact formulae are presented for the computation of the irregularity and total irregularity of fractal-type graphs in terms of the parameters of the underlying graphs.
Typealike
Authors: Chhibber Nalin , Surale Hemant Bhaskar , Matulic Fabrice , Vogel Daniel
Published: November 2021

We propose a style of hand postures to trigger commands on a laptop. The key idea is to perform hand-postures while keeping the hands on, beside, or below the keyboard, to align with natural laptop usage. 36 hand-posture variations are explored considering three resting locations, left or right hand, open or closed hand, and three wrist rotation angles. A 30-participant formative study measures posture preferences and generates a dataset of nearly 350K images under different lighting conditions and backgrounds. A deep learning recognizer achieves over 97% accuracy when classifying all 36 postures with 2 additional non-posture classes for typing and non-typing. A second experiment with 20 participants validates the recognizer under real-time usage and compares posture invocation time with keyboard shortcuts. Results find low error rates and fast formation time, indicating postures are close to current typing and pointing postures. Finally, practical use case demonstrations are presented, and further extensions discussed.
Playful Engagement for Public Spaces
Authors: Araake Koichi , Kono Michinari , Iwata Eiji , Sasaki Norio
Published: November 2021

Designing embodied playfulness has been explored as a method for problem-solving. However, when thinking about deploying such an approach in public space activities, we often face many limitations regarding safety and ambiance, especially for bodily movements and behavior. To explore and address the challenges of deploying playfulness with restrained bodily movements in public spaces, we present a case study of an escalator augmented with auditory and visual feedback. An escalator in a public shopping mall has many limitations that require careful consideration in the design to maintain safety and avoid mistakes. We describe the challenges of our design strategy in order to complete the installation of a public escalator over five days. The results show that our approach significantly encouraged people to use the escalator, and also improved their manner of using it. Our work presents a successful method of treating the balance of social limitations and enjoyment that can affect human behavior in positive ways.
The MADE-Axis
Authors: Smiley Jim , Lee Benjamin , Tandon Siddhant , Cordeil Maxime , Besançon Lonni , Knibbe Jarrod , Jenny Bernhard , Dwyer Tim
Published: November 2021

Tangible controls-especially sliders and rotary knobs-have been explored in a wide range of interactive applications for desktop and immersive environments. Studies have shown that they support greater precision and provide proprioceptive benefits, such as support for eyes-free interaction. However, such controls tend to be expressly designed for specific applications. We draw inspiration from a bespoke controller for immersive data visualisation, but decompose this design into a simple, wireless, composable unit featuring two actuated sliders and a rotary encoder. Through these controller units, we explore the interaction opportunities around actuated sliders; supporting precise selection, infinite scrolling, adaptive data representations, and rich haptic feedback; all within a mode-less interaction space. We demonstrate the controllers' use for simple, ad hoc desktop interaction,before moving on to more complex, multi-dimensional interactions in VR and AR. We show that the flexibility and composability of these actuated controllers provides an emergent design space which covers the range of interactive dynamics for visual analysis. In a user study involving pairs performing collaborative visual analysis tasks in mixed-reality, our participants were able to easily compose rich visualisations, make insights and discuss their findings.
Study on the Iterative Compensation Method for Continuous Varying Curvature Free Bending
Authors: Zhai Ruixue , Fu Pengcheng , Ma Rui , Zhao Jun , Ge Cuiyun
Published: November 2021

The parts formed by the bending process not only have high precision of appearance dimension but also have good performance. In recent years, enterprises have put forward higher requirements for the forming process and product quality. Therefore, a new method for iterative compensation of bending springback with certain generality is proposed for continuous curvature bending. The purpose of this study is to take curvature as an iterative parameter and make the shape size reach the expected value through the finite compensation. On the basis of establishing this iterative compensation mechanism, the convergence of curvature iteration in the general free bending process is proved. The reliability of the proposed iterative compensation method in the bending process engineering application is verified by combining simulation with experiment. The two materials of 304 stainless steel and ST12 cold rolled steel were studied, and the two-dimensional plane stress-strain model Abaqus cantilever beam was established by using finite element software. The bending forming simulation was carried out based on the above iterative compensation mechanism. Finally, through the bending experiments of four models, the feasibility of the iterative compensation mechanism of curvature in the continuous curvature plane bending process is verified, and different models are selected to clarify that the method has the characteristics of generality, that is, it will greatly improve the flexibility of the bending process in industrial applications without the limitation of material types and mechanical models.
Single Shot Multibox Detector Automatic Polyp Detection Network Based on Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Images
Authors: Chen Xiaoling , Zhang Kuiling , Lin Shuying , Dai Kai Feng , Yun Yang
Published: November 2021

Purpose. In order to resolve the situation of high missed diagnosis rate and high misdiagnosis rate of the pathological analysis of the gastrointestinal endoscopic images by experts, we propose an automatic polyp detection algorithm based on Single Shot Multibox Detector (SSD). Method. In the paper, SSD is based on VGG-16, the fully connected layer is changed to a convolutional layer, and four convolutional layers with successively decreasing scales are added as a new network structure. In order to verify the practicability, it is not only compared with manual polyp detection but also with Mask R-CNN. Results. Multiple experimental results show that the mean Average Precision (mAP) of the SSD network is 95.74%, which is 12.4% higher than the manual detection and 5.7% higher than the Mask R-CNN. When detecting a single frame of image, the detection speed of SSD is 8.41 times that of manual detection. Conclusion. Based on the traditional pattern recognition algorithm and the target detection algorithm using deep learning, we select a variety of algorithms to identify and classify polyps to achieve efficient detection results. Our research demonstrates that deep learning has a lot of room for development in the field of gastrointestinal image recognition.
Novel Multidimensional Collaborative Filtering Algorithm Based on Improved Item Rating Prediction
Authors: Li Tongyan , Li Yingxiang , Yi-Ping Phoebe Chen
Published: November 2021

Current data has the characteristics of complexity and low information density, which can be called the information sparse data. However, a large amount of data makes it difficult to analyse sparse data with traditional collaborative filtering recommendation algorithms, which may lead to low accuracy. Meanwhile, the complexity of data means that the recommended environment is affected by multiple dimensional factors. In order to solve these problems efficiently, our paper proposes a multidimensional collaborative filtering algorithm based on improved item rating prediction. The algorithm considers a variety of factors that affect user ratings; then, it uses the penalty to account for users’ popularity to calculate the degree of similarity between users and cross-iterative bi-clustering for the user scoring matrix to take into account changes in user’s preferences and improves on the traditional item rating prediction algorithm, which considers user ratings according to multidimensional factors. In this algorithm, the introduction of systematic error factors based on statistical learning improves the accuracy of rating prediction, and the multidimensional method can solve data sparsity problems, enabling the strongest relevant dimension influencing factors with association rules to be found. The experiment results show that the proposed algorithm has the advantages of smaller recommendation error and higher recommendation accuracy.
Frequency Analysis for Functionally Graded Material Cylindrical Shells: A Significant Case Study
Authors: Anwar Rabia , Ghamkhar Madiha , Khan Muhammad Imran , Safdar Rabia , Iqbal Muhammad Zafar , Jamshed Wasim , Karatas Akgül Esra , Prakash M.
Published: November 2021

Cylindrical shells play an important role for the construction of functionally graded materials (FGMs). Functionally graded materials are valuable in order to develop durable materials. They are made of two or more materials such as nickel, stainless steel, zirconia, and alumina. They are extremely beneficial for the manufacturing of structural elements. Functionally graded materials are broadly used in several fields such as chemistry, biomedicine, optics, and electronics. In the present research, vibrations of natural frequencies are investigated for different layered cylindrical shells, those constructed from FGMs. The behavior of shell vibration is based on different parameters of geometrical material. The problem of the shell is expressed from the constitutive relations of strain and stress with displacement, as well as it is adopted from Love’s shell theory. Vibrations of natural frequencies (NFs) are calculated for simply supported-simply supported (SS-SS) and clamped-free (C-F) edge conditions. The Rayleigh–Ritz technique is employed to obtain the shell frequency equation. The shell equation is solved by MATLAB software.
Association of Incidence between Pancreatic Adipose Infiltration and Metabolic Syndrome: A Literature Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Ying , Li Jing , Xu Youqing
Published: November 2021

Objective. To investigate association of incidence between pancreatic adipose infiltration and metabolic syndrome (METS). Methods. We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases up to July 2021. We compared incidence rate of METS between adults with and without pancreatic adipose infiltration, along with their clinical features, such as fasting blood glucose (FBG), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and hypertension (HTN). Cross-sectional study, cohort study, and case control study were included. Two investigators independently completed study selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment. Results. Eleven eligible studies that involved 17,127 patients were included, including 8 cross-sectional studies, 2 cohort studies, and 1 case control study. There was a trend of increasing in incidence rate of METS (

OR
=
2.66

, 95% CI: 1.89-3.75) of adults with pancreatic adipose infiltration when compared to those without the disease. There was a trend of increasing in HTN (

OR
=
1.68

, 95% CI: 1.32-2.13) and levels of FBG (

SMD
=
0.54

, 95% CI: 0.35-0.72) and TG (

SMD
=
0.39

, 95% CI: 0.25-0.53) of adults with pancreatic adipose infiltration, while there was a trend of decreasing in HDL level (

SMD
=
−
0.29

, 95% CI: -0.43~ -0.15). Conclusion. There was an association of incidence between pancreatic adipose infiltration and METS. Indicators of clinical features related to pancreatic adipose infiltration were more likely to arise, such as FBG and TG levels and HTN, but HDL level tended to decrease.
Geometric Mechanics on Warped Product Semi-Slant Submanifold of Generalized Complex Space Forms
Authors: Li Yanlin , Alkhaldi Ali H. , Ali Akram
Published: November 2021

In this study, we develop a general inequality for warped product semi-slant submanifolds of type

M

n

=

N

T

n

1

×

f

N

ϑ

n

2

in a nearly Kaehler manifold and generalized complex space forms using the Gauss equation instead of the Codazzi equation. There are several applications that can be developed from this. It is also described how to classify warped product semi-slant submanifolds that satisfy the equality cases of inequalities (determined using boundary conditions). Several results for connected, compact warped product semi-slant submanifolds of nearly Kaehler manifolds are obtained, and they are derived in the context of the Hamiltonian, Dirichlet energy function, gradient Ricci curvature, and nonzero eigenvalue of the Laplacian of the warping functions.
A Deformation Prediction Model of High Arch Dams in the Initial Operation Period Based on PSR-SVM-IGWO
Authors: Li Mingjun , Pan Jiangyang , Liu Yaolai , Liu Hao , Wang Junxing , Zhao Zhou
Published: November 2021

The deformation prediction of the dam in the initial stage of operation is very important for the safety of high dams. A hybrid model integrating chaos theory, support vector machine (SVM), and an improved Grey Wolf Optimization (IGWO) algorithm is developed for deformation prediction of dam in the initial operation period. Firstly, the chaotic characteristics of the dam deformation time series will be identified, mainly using the Lyapunov exponent method, the correlation dimension method, and the Kolmogorov entropy method. Secondly, the SVM-IGWO model based on phase space reconstruction (PSR) is established for deformation forecasting of the dam in the initial operation period. Taking SVM as the core, the deformation time series is reconstructed in phase space to determine the input variables of SVM and the GWO algorithm is improved to realize the optimization of SVM parameters. Finally, take the actual monitoring displacement of Xiluodu super-high arch dam as an example. The engineering application example shows that, compared with the existing models, the prediction accuracy of the PSR-SVM-IGWO model established in this paper is improved.
Pan-cancer Analysis of Homologous Recombination Repair–associated Gene Alterations and Genome-wide Loss-of-Heterozygosity Score
Authors: Westphalen C. Benedikt , Fine Alexander D. , André Fabrice , Ganesan Shridar , Heinemann Volker , Rouleau Etienne , Turnbull Clare , Garcia Palacios Luis , Lopez Jorge-Antonio , Sokol Ethan S. , Mateo Joaquin
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

To study associations across tumor types between genome-wide loss of heterozygosity (gLOH) and alterations in homologous recombination repair (HRR)-associated genes beyond BRCA1 and BRCA2.

Experimental Design:

Genomic profiling using a targeted next-generation sequencing assay examining 324–465 genes (FoundationOne, FoundationOne Heme, and FoundationOne CDx; Foundation Medicine, Inc.) was performed in a cohort of 160,790 samples across different tumor types. Zygosity predictions and gLOH status were calculated and linked with alterations in 18 HRR-associated genes (BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, BARD1, ATR, ATRX, ATM, BAP1, RAD51B, RAD51C, RAD51D, BRIP1, NBN, CHEK1, CHEK2, FANCA, FANCC, MRE11) and other genomic features, using Fisher's exact test and Mann–Whitney U tests.

Results:

We identified a strong correlation between elevated gLOH and biallelic alterations in a core set of HRR-associated genes beyond BRCA1 and BRCA2, such as BARD1, PALB2, FANCC, RAD51C, and RAD51D (particularly in breast, ovarian, pancreatic, and prostate cancer). Monoallelic/heterozygous alterations in HRR-associated genes were not associated with elevated gLOH. gLOH was also independently associated with TP53 loss. Co-occurrence of TP53 loss and alterations in HRR-associated genes, and combined loss of TP53-PTEN or TP53-RB1, was associated with a higher gLOH than each of the events separately.

Conclusions:

Biallelic alterations in core HRR-associated genes are frequent, strongly associated with elevated gLOH, and enriched in breast, ovarian, pancreatic, and prostate cancer. This analysis could inform the design of the next generation of clinical trials examining DNA repair–targeting agents, including PARP inhibitors.
DIPG Harbors Alterations Targetable by MEK Inhibitors, with Acquired Resistance Mechanisms Overcome by Combinatorial Inhibition
Authors: Izquierdo Elisa , Carvalho Diana M. , Mackay Alan , Temelso Sara , Boult Jessica K.R. , Pericoli Giulia , Fernandez Elisabet , Das Molina , Molinari Valeria , Grabovska Yura , Rogers Rebecca F. , Ajmone-Cat Maria Antonietta , Proszek Paula Z. , Stubbs Mark , Depani Sarita , O'Hare Patricia , Yu Lu , Roumelioti Georgia , Choudhary Jyoti S. , Clarke Matthew , Fairchild Amy R. , Jacques Thomas S. , Grundy Richard G. , Howell Lisa , Picton Susan , Adamski Jenny , Wilson Shaun , Gray Juliet C. , Zebian Bassel , Marshall Lynley V. , Carceller Fernando , Grill Jacques , Vinci Maria , Robinson Simon P. , Hubank Michael , Hargrave Darren , Jones Chris
Published: November 2021

The survival of children with diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) remains dismal, with new treatments desperately needed. In a prospective biopsy-stratified clinical trial, we combined detailed molecular profiling and drug screening in newly established patient-derived models in vitro and in vivo. We identified in vitro sensitivity to MEK inhibitors in DIPGs harboring MAPK pathway alterations, but treatment of patient-derived xenograft models and a patient at relapse failed to elicit a significant response. We generated trametinib-resistant clones in a BRAFG469V model through continuous drug exposure and identified acquired mutations in MEK1/2 with sustained pathway upregulation. These cells showed hallmarks of mesenchymal transition and expression signatures overlapping with inherently trametinib-insensitive patient-derived cells, predicting sensitivity to dasatinib. Combined trametinib and dasatinib showed highly synergistic effects in vitro and on ex vivo brain slices. We highlight the MAPK pathway as a therapeutic target in DIPG and show the importance of parallel resistance modeling and combinatorial treatments for meaningful clinical translation.

Significance:

We report alterations in the MAPK pathway in DIPGs to confer initial sensitivity to targeted MEK inhibition. We further identify for the first time the mechanism of resistance to single-agent targeted therapy in these tumors and suggest a novel combinatorial treatment strategy to overcome it in the clinic.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 587
Short- and Long-Term Outcomes of Single-Incision Laparoscopic Surgery for Right-Side Colon Cancer
Authors: Hata Taishi , Kawai Kenji , Naito Atsushi , Kagawa Yoshinori , Kitahara Tomohiro , Hiraki Masayuki , Shinke Go , Katsuyama Shinsuke , Katsura Yoshiteru , Ohmura Yoshiaki , Masuzawa Toru , Takeno Atsushi , Takeda Yutaka , Kato Takeshi , Murata Kohei
Published: November 2021

Introduction: There are little data concerning the long-term outcome of single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) for colon cancer. Therefore, we investigated not only the short-term outcomes but also the long-term outcomes of SILS for right-side colon cancer. Methods: We retrospectively compared short- and long-term outcomes of SILS and conventional laparoscopic surgery (CLS) for right-sided colon cancer in our institution. Intergroup differences of short-term outcomes were evaluated using χ2 or Fisher exact tests and 2-sample Student t tests. The disease-free survival rates (long-term outcome) of stage II and III patients were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared using log-rank tests. Results: There were 290 operations conducted for right-side (cecum and ascending) colorectal cancers from April 2011 to July 2018. Open surgery was performed in 12 cases from start to the operation. SILS was performed in 196 cases and CLS in 55 cases. One patient underwent intraoperative conversion from SILS to laparotomy for bleeding control. In addition, 1 port was added to SILS in 3 cases. These 4 cases were included in the analysis as the SILS group according to the principle of intent to treat. Background: Factors including age, gender, body mass index, performance status, and tumor stage were not statistically different between the SILS and CLS groups. In short-term outcomes, the number of harvested lymph nodes was not statistically different. SILS required less operating time (p < 0.001) and resulted in a reduced bleeding volume (p < 0.001). There was no statistical difference in the frequency of overall complications (p = 0.06). The disease-free survival of stage II and III patients was not statistically different between the 2 groups. Conclusions: With the proper adaptation of SILS by an experienced surgeon, the short- and long-term outcomes of SILS were not inferior to those of CLS. Therefore, SILS could be a treatment option for right-sided colon cancer.
Weeds detection efficiency through different convolutional neural networks technology
Authors: Tannouche Adil , Gaga Ahmed , Boutalline Mohammed , Belhouideg Soufiane
Published: November 2021

The preservation of the environment has become a priority and a subject that is receiving more and more attention. This is particularly important in the field of precision agriculture, where pesticide and herbicide use has become more controlled. In this study, we propose to evaluate the ability of the deep learning (DL) and convolutional neural network (CNNs) technology to detect weeds in several types of crops using a perspective and proximity images to enable localized and ultra-localized herbicide spraying in the region of Beni Mellal in Morocco. We studied the detection of weeds through six recent CNN known for their speed and precision, namely, VGGNet (16 and 19), GoogLeNet (Inception V3 and V4) and MobileNet (V1 and V2). The first experiment was performed with the CNNs architectures from scratch and the second experiment with their pre-trained versions. The results showed that Inception V4 achieved the highest precision with a rate of 99.41% and 99.51% on the mixed image sets and for its version from scratch and its pre-trained version respectively, and that MobileNet V2 was the fastest and lightest with its size of 14 MB.
Hybrid bypass technique to mitigate leakage current in the grid-tied inverter
Authors: Kamurthy Geetha , Veeranna Sreenivasappa Bhupasandra
Published: November 2021

The extensive use of fossil fuel is destroying the balance of nature that could lead to many problems in the forthcoming era. Renewable energy resources are a ray of hope to avoid possible destruction. Smart grid and distributed power generation systems are now mainly built with the help of renewable energy resources. The integration of renewable energy production system with the smart grid and distributed power generation is facing many challenges that include addressing the issue of isolation and power quality. This paper presents a new approach to address the aforementioned issues by proposing a hybrid bypass technique concept to improve the overall performance of the grid-tied inverter in solar power generation. The topology with the proposed technique is presented using traditional H5, oH5 and H6 inverter. Comparison of topologies with literature is carried out to check the feasibility of the method proposed. It is found that the leakage current of all the proposed inverters is 9 mA and total harmonic distortion is almost about 2%. The proposed topology has good efficiency, common mode and differential mode characteristics.