bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ricci cosmology in light of astronomical data
Authors: Caroli Roberto , Da̧browski Mariusz P. , Salzano Vincenzo
Published: October 2021

Recently, a new cosmological framework, dubbed Ricci cosmology, has been proposed. Such a framework has emerged from the study of relativistic dynamics of fluids out of equilibrium in a curved background and is characterised by the presence of deviations from the equilibrium pressure in the energy–momentum tensor which are due to linear terms in the Ricci scalar and the Ricci tensor. The coefficients in front of such terms are called the second order transport coefficients and they parametrise the fluid response to the pressure terms arising from the spacetime curvature. Under the preliminary assumption that the second order transport coefficients are constant, we find the simplest solution of Ricci cosmology in which the presence of pressure terms causes a departure from the perfect fluid redshift scaling for matter components filling the Universe. In order to test the viability of this solution, we make four different ansätze on the transport coefficients, giving rise to four different cases of our model. On the physical ground of the second law of thermodynamics for fluids with non-equilibrium pressure, we find some theoretical bounds (priors) on the parameters of the models. Our main concern is then the check of each of the case against the standard set of cosmological data in order to obtain the observational bounds on the second order transport coefficients. We find those bounds also realising that Ricci cosmology model is compatible with $$\Lambda $$
Λ
CDM cosmology for all the ansätze.
Polynomial inflation and dark matter
Authors: Bernal Nicolás , Xu Yong
Published: October 2021

We present a minimal UV complete framework to embed inflation and dark matter by extending the standard model with a singlet real scalar field (the inflaton) and a singlet fermionic field acting as dark matter. The inflaton features the most general renormalizable polynomial up to quartic order, which is flat due to the existence of a perturbed inflection-point, comfortably fitting CMB measurements. We also analyze (p)reheating by considering the Higgs production via inflaton decay. In the early universe, dark matter can be generated by the mediation of gravitons or inflatons. However, the production via the direct decay of the inflatons dominates, making viable a large range of dark matter masses, from $${\mathcal {O}}(10^{-5})$$

O
(

10

-
5

)

 GeV to $${\mathcal {O}}(10^{11})$$

O
(

10
11

)

 GeV.
CO-MOVEMENT OF STEADY-STATE GOVERNMENT DEBT AND HOUSEHOLD DEBT
Authors: LEE INSOOK
Published: October 2021

To understand whether and how movements of government debt and household debt are related, stationary equilibrium government debt and household debt are characterized in a politico-economic model where office-seeking policymakers decide government debt and individual voters can borrow facing uninsurable idiosyncratic income shocks. An increase in uninsurable income risk unconditionally raises stationary equilibrium government debt and aggregate household debt together, while an increase in household-loan collateral value or population aging conditionally does so, entailing positive correlations between these two debts’ movements. In contrast, an increase in interest rate conditionally causes these two debts to move in the opposite directions.
A New Structure of 8-Bit 60 MS/s SAR-ADC Using a Reduced Switching Capacitor-DAC Array
Authors: Prathiba G. , Santhi M.
Published: October 2021

This paper presents an analysis of the Reduced Switching Capacitor Digital-to-Analog Converter (RSC-DAC)-based low power Successive Approximation Register Analog to Digital Converter (SAR-ADC). The proposed structure involves the Low voltage Static D-Latch Comparator (LSD-LC) with pre-amplifier operators in two modes (Normal and Hold), the RSC-DAC switching energy, reduced by 93% contrast to the standard Charge Redistribution Switching Capacitor DAC (CRSC-DAC) method, and the Successive Approximation Register (SAR) control logic. The LSD-LC with pre-amplifier consists of a latch circuit and a pre-amplifier. The pre-amplifier is often used to eliminate the DC offset voltage and kickback noise without substantially weakening the Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) to drive the main circuit while the latch is needed for comparison. The linearity parameters such as Integral Nonlinearity, Differential Nonlinearity and effect of parasitic capacitances of the RSC-DAC are analyzed and improved by the new approach named as Adaptive Random Code Generation (ARCG) Technique. The above overall design is implemented in 250-nm CMOS design of the TANNER-EDA tool, consuming 1.74-mW power at 60[Formula: see text]MS/s. The proposed structure has an INL and a DNL, respectively, of +0.18/[Formula: see text] LSB and +0.11/[Formula: see text]0.05 LSB.
AIR FLOW CONTROL VALVE DEVELOPMENT WITH REINFORCED OPERATING PARAMETERS
Authors: OZBAKIS YUSUF , ERZINCANLI FEHMI
Published: October 2021

Recent research has shown that particles in the air and harmful gases in the environment increase the risk of various respiratory diseases and mortality rates. For effective ventilation, particles and harmful gases in the environment must be captured before they are released into the environment. Air flow control valves (AFCVs) play an active role in the capture of particles and harmful gases in the environment with central ventilation system. In the study, an innovative AFCV, which is the most critical part of central ventilation systems, has been developed. Performance criteria in the innovative AFCV design have been the capture rate, the flow rate and turbulence intensity. In this study, six valves are designed as an alternative to the current valve. The designed valves were mounted on the central ventilation system hood and numerical analysis was performed. ANSYS Fluent software was used for the analysis. The best and worst valves were determined as a result of numerical analysis. Prototypes of the determined valves were created and experimental verification tests were carried out. Again, numerical analyses simulating the experimental tests were performed with these two valves. The experimental test results and numerical analysis results were compared. As a result, due to the innovative AFCV design, the air flow and the capture speed have been increased and the turbulence intensity has been reduced.
Simultaneous Multi-Objective Optimal Sizing of Energy Dissipative Steel Cushions for Transversal Loading
Authors: Güllü Ahmet , Körpeoğlu Seda Göktepe
Published: October 2021

Current practice in structural engineering requires dissipating some part of seismic energy by sacrificial elements rather than structural members and/or joints. As an easy-to-produce and plug-and-play damper with stable hysteretic loops and large displacement capacity, steel cushion (SC) is a significant device to improve the seismic performance of the structures. It was stated in the previous studies that SC is less effective in the transversal direction. Hence, the efficiency of the damper is improved by optimal sizing through intelligent optimization techniques in this study. The complex optimization problem could be converted to a relatively simple mathematical problem since closed-form equations of the damper are exist in the literature. The optimal sizing problem was solved using two distinct methods namely the [Formula: see text]-constraint method and the elitist non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA-II). The employed optimization methods were verified by each other as almost similar geometric ratios were obtained. The efficiency of the optimization is evaluated through finite element analysis (FEA). It is shown that the optimally sized SC is superior in terms of energy dissipation.
A Review on Natural Disaster Detection in Social Media and Satellite Imagery Using Machine Learning and Deep Learning
Authors: Kaur Swapandeep , Gupta Sheifali , Singh Swati , Arora Tanvi
Published: October 2021

A disaster is a devastating incident that causes a serious disruption of the functions of a community. It leads to loss of human life and environmental and financial losses. Natural disasters cause damage and privation that could last for months and even years. Immediate steps need to be taken and social media platforms like Twitter help to provide relief to the affected public. However, it is difficult to analyze high-volume data obtained from social media posts. Therefore, the efficiency and accuracy of useful data extracted from the enormous posts related to disaster are low. Satellite imagery is gaining popularity because of its ability to cover large temporal and spatial areas. But, both the social media and satellite imagery require the use of automated methods to avoid the errors caused by humans. Deep learning and machine learning have become extremely popular for text and image classification tasks. In this paper, a review has been done on natural disaster detection through information obtained from social media and satellite images using deep learning and machine learning.
Japan-Southeast Asia Relations Amid US-China Competition in East Asia
Authors: SINGH Bhubhindar
Published: October 2021

Japan has emerged as a critical strategic actor in East Asia amidst intensifying US-China structural competition since 2010. Southeast Asia/ASEAN is an important dimension of Japan’s foreign policy expansion. This paper argues that Japan’s foreign policy is driven by the aim of becoming an alternative source of strategic stability in Southeast Asia/ASEAN as opposed to the United States and China. This is explained by analysing Japan’s foreign policy in regional balance of power and ASEAN-led multilateralism.
The Biden Administration’s China and Taiwan Policies: Connecting the Dots
Authors: COPPER John F
Published: October 2021

US China and US Taiwan policies in the first half-year plus of the Biden administration saw relations with China deteriorate and improve with Taiwan. This furthered trends of the Trump presidency and appeared to push the United States closer to a war with China. The author also looks at the power relationship between the two countries and President Biden’s desperate efforts to gather allies against China, making it a struggle between democracy and authoritarianism.
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization: An Emerging Venue for China’s New Diplomacy
Authors: Yazdani Enayatollah
Published: October 2021

China’s increasing strategic investment and continued diplomatic outreach has indicated that it aims to play a larger leadership role in global affairs in the years to come. To project its global power, Beijing has not only tried to bolster its position in existing regional and global institutions, such as the International Monetary Fund and World Bank, but also launched its own initiatives, programs, and projects to reinforce and reform the current international order. The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) stands out as the only grouping whose inception, expansion, and functioning best showcase China’s rise and ambitions in the region and the larger world. Indeed, the SCO is a key platform for Beijing’s efforts to play such a role; it is a multilateral mechanism that has long provided an effective means for achieving China’s regional and international goals and interests. Yet, internal tensions between member states may pose new challenges, which will be a major test of the SCO’s resilience and capacity in the years to come.
Identification of best discrimination surface by mixed-integer semi-definite programming for support vector machine
Authors: Tanaka Katsuhiro , Yamamoto Rei
Published: October 2021

This paper proposes two improvements to the support vector machine (SVM): (i) extension to a semi-positive definite quadratic surface, which improves the discrimination accuracy; (ii) addition of a variable selection constraint. However, this model is formulated as a mixed-integer semi-definite programming (MISDP) problem, and it cannot be solved easily. Therefore, we propose a heuristic algorithm for solving the MISDP problem efficiently and show its effectiveness by using corporate credit rating data.
On the microstructure and tensile properties of Inconel 718 alloy fabricated by selective laser melting and conventional casting
Authors: He Minglin , Ni Yong , Wang Shuai
Published: October 2021

In this work, we investigated the microstructure and tensile properties of Inconel 718 alloy processed by selective laser melting (SLM) and conventional casting technique using multiscale characterization methods. Results indicated that a columnar grain structure containing cellular structure units with submicron size was the major feature in the as-printed Inconel 718 alloy. At the cellular structure boundaries, the high-density dislocation tangles, segregation of Nb/Mo atoms and nano-sized Laves phases were found. Meanwhile, we also observed dislocation pile-ups and stacking faults in the interior of the cellular structure. In contrast, in the as-cast Inconel 718 alloy, both the grains and Laves phases were much coarser. Discrete dislocations, dislocation tangles and [Formula: see text]” precipitates were locally observed in the grains. Tensile results showed the as-printed Inconel 718 alloy had a higher strength and a lower elongation in comparison with those in the as-cast alloy. Based on the experimental results, the formation mechanism of the cellular structure was discussed.
Japan–India Relations Beyond Coping with China in the Indo-Pacific Region
Authors: TAKENORI HORIMOTO
Published: October 2021

The Indo-Pacific region is said to be the center of the 21st century, unlike the Asia-Pacific in the 20th century. In the region, China is emerging rapidly in terms of economic strength, defense capability, and international presence. The US and other concerned countries are striving to cope with the new development. It looks that the US manages to somehow retain its Pax Americana as in the latter half of the last century. China which dreams to head for Pax Sinica has been implementing various measures including removing unfavorable circumstances to promote its dream. At the moment, it is hard to make prompt predictions on how these two Pax would be going. The key question would be ways to deal with China. Typical policies now under implementation are engaging policy represented by the RCEP and balancing policy by the Quad. These two policies have a timeline of short-term policy and middle-term policy. Perhaps, contents of the policies would be finalized depending upon China’s economic development as one of the major factors. To bring about peace and stability of the region, in tandem with them, it might be necessary to bring about a regional order of the Indo-Pacific where it has been lacking. The close relations of Japan and India could be utilized for such a purpose also. Although COVID-19 is afflicting the whole region, it is hoped that the pandemic could be overcome by vaccines and other measures in the near future. It is the right time now to ponder over the future direction of the Indo-Pacific region before it is too late.
Rock properties and rock-controlled landforms
Authors: Duszyński Filip , Ford Derek C. , Goudie Andrew S. , Migoń Piotr
Published: October 2021

Rock properties are a crucial control of landform development. The purpose of this chapter is to examine the progress that was made in studying rock properties in general and then to discuss developments in the study of landforms in three main rock types: granite, limestone and sandstone. From the mid-1960s onwards, geomorphology witnessed an increasing concern with the quantification of rock properties and their relationship to landforms and landscape evolution. Japanese geomorphologists led in this endeavour. Studies crossed a range of scales from those of a large size that were susceptible to field measurements to those of small size that involved laboratory studies. Among the basic characteristics of rocks that have been studied are fracturing and jointing, rock mass strength, hardness as determined by the Schmidt Hammer, resistance as determined by laboratory simulations, slaking susceptibility, porosity, water absorption capacity, water content and permeability, and petrological thin-section analyses. The investigation of forms and processes in granite, limestone and sandstone areas has shown the value of combined geological and geographical approaches, and the increasing internationalization of studies.
Civilization-Saving Science for the Twenty-First Century
Authors: McNutt Marcia K.
Published: October 2021

Geoscientists have generally been at the leading edge of predicting the challenges society faces from hazards both natural and anthropomorphic. As geoscientists, we have been less successful in devising the solutions to those problems to ensure a habitable planet for ourselves and future generations because often the solutions lie in creating novel partnerships with other researchers, including engineers, biologists, and social scientists. These sorts of transdisciplinary partnerships have been leading to radical advances in human health, under the banner of convergence science. Application of these principles of convergence science offers significant promise for addressing challenges such as climate change mitigation and adaptation, environmental health, protecting ecosystem services, and advancing sustainability science. To apply this approach rigorously, however, will involve a culture change in the geosciences in terms of how students are educated, how researchers are rewarded, and how projects are funded. ▪ Geoscientists need to work collaboratively with life, physical, and social scientists, as well as engineers, to solve the problems of our time. ▪ Universities need to address financial, procedural, educational, and cultural impediments to the conduct of convergence research. ▪ Adopting a solutions orientation to major environmental issues could help attract a more diverse geoscience workforce. ▪ Climate change mitigation would benefit from partnerships between geoscientists and social scientists to make the right behavior easy. ▪ The current course of Earth science education, research, and partnerships is inadequate to address sustainability. ▪ Ensuring environmental health requires collaboration between experts in health, environment, infrastructure, and economics.
Percolation-Induced Negative Permittivity in Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube/Polyimide Metacomposites
Authors: Song Xiaoting , Wei Zaixin , Shi Guangyue , Fan Guohua , Liu Yao , Fan Runhua
Published: October 2021

Materials with negative permittivity have attracted increasing attention with the development of metamaterials. Here, polyimide/multi-walled carbon nanotube (PI/MWCNT) percolating composites have been fabricated, and, interestingly, the Drude-type negative permittivity behavior is achieved as MWCNT content reached percolation threshold, which is attributed to the plasmonic state of delocalized electrons within the interconnected MWCNTs. In addition, conductivity of composites increases abruptly by almost three orders of magnitudes when MWCNT content reached 1 wt%. Meanwhile, the conduction mechanism changed, suggesting the electrical properties are related to percolation of composites. Moreover, reactance is discussed based on equivalent circuit analysis and the composite with negative permittivity shows inductive character. This work explored the regulation mechanism of negative permittivity in kHz regions and the obtained epsilon-negative metacomposites are promising for applications like electromagnetic shielding and wearable cloaks, etc.
The influence of sex and maturation on carotid and vertebral artery hemodynamics and associations with free-living (in)activity in 6–17-year-olds
Authors: Tallon Christine M. , Smith Kurt J. , Nowak-Flück Daniela , Koziol Alyssa V. , Rieger Mathew G. , Lutes Lesley D. , Green Daniel J. , Tremblay Mark S. , Ainslie Philip N. , McManus Ali M.
Published: October 2021

Cerebral blood flow is known to change with age; however, assessing these age-related changes is complex and requires consideration of pubertal status. This, to our knowledge, is the first study to investigate the influence of sex and maturation on resting cervical artery hemodynamics and subsequently explore associations with physical activity and sedentary behavior in healthy children and adolescents. Our findings suggest that habitual sedentary behavior may influence cervical artery hemodynamics in youth, independent of physical activity, maturation, and sex.
The Design of a Track Monitoring System for Sports Injury Rehabilitation Training
Authors: Li Wang , Cheng Xin , Cai Xian Feng
Published: October 2021

To realize the remote monitoring design in the process of rehabilitation training for athletes after an injury using computer technology, using Visual Studio 2010 development platform, and using ASP as the development language, NET as the development framework, the injury rehabilitation of injured athletes for dynamic monitoring of information management system, and its functions, system architecture and other detailed design. This article identified six laboratory workers outside the sample as experimental subjects. The experimental subjects’ blood oxygen flow, degree, and rate were measured in the normal condition, and the pulse wave was recorded. Then, the upper and lower limbs rehabilitation training robot developed by the laboratory was used for about 15 minutes of rehabilitation training with 3-gear difficulty. The results show that the data measured by the system are the same as the data measured by the Lu Yue brand finger clip type YX301 blood oxygen saturation detector and meet the design requirements. Conclusion. The monitoring accuracy of the system is high, the resistance signal waveform is basically consistent with the actual waveform, and the monitoring effect is good.
Histological Changes Observed in Placentas Exposed to Medication-Assisted Treatment
Authors: Staszewski Cara , Herrera Kimberly M. , Kertowidjojo Elizabeth , Ly Victoria , Iovino Nicole , Garretto Diana , Kaplan Cynthia , Persad Malini D. , Garry David J.
Published: October 2021

Introduction. To compare the effects of medication-assisted treatment on the placenta in pregnant women with opioid use disorder and uncomplicated pregnancies. Methods. This is a case-controlled study of pregnant women utilizing medication-assisted treatment, buprenorphine or methadone, which were matched to healthy uncomplicated controls by gestational age. Placental evaluations and neonatal outcomes were evaluated. Data analysis performed standard statistics and relative risk analysis with a

p
<
0.05

considered significant. Results. There were 143 women who met the inclusion criteria: 103 utilizing MAT, 41 buprenorphine and 62 methadone, and 40 uncomplicated matched healthy controls. The incidence of delayed villous maturation was 36% in the medication-assisted group compared with 10% in controls (RR 3.6: 95% CI 1.37-9.43;

p
<
0.01

). The placental weight was greater (

541
±
117

 g versus

491
±
117

 g;

p
=
0.02

), and the fetoplacental weight ratio was lower (

5.70
±
1.1

versus

7.13
±
1.4

;

p
<
0.01

) in the medication-exposed pregnancies compared with controls. The mean birth weight of the MAT newborns was significantly lower than that of the healthy controls (

3018
±
536

 g versus

3380
±
492

 g;

p
<
0.01

). When evaluating the subgroups of the MAT newborns, the birth weight of the methadone-exposed newborns (

2886
±
514

 g) was significantly lower than that of the buprenorphine-exposed newborns (

3218
±
512

 g;

p
<
0.01

). Conclusion. Medication-exposed pregnancies have a greater incidence of delayed villous maturation, a larger placental size, and a decreased fetoplacental weight ratio compared to the healthy controls. Larger long-term follow-up studies to evaluate outcomes with the presence of delayed villous maturation are needed.
Recanalization Treatment of Acute Ischemic Stroke Caused by Large-Artery Occlusion in the Elderly: A Comparative Analysis of “the Elderly” and “the Very Elderly”
Authors: Wang Qi , Zhang Yi-Qun , Qiu Han-Cheng , Yao Yin-Dan , Liu Ao-Fei , Li Chen , Jiang Wei-Jian
Published: October 2021

Objective. To assess whether the effectiveness and safety of recanalization therapy for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) caused by large-artery occlusion (LAO) differ between patients aged 60–79 years and patients aged ≥80 years. Methods. We analyzed prospective data of patients with LAO (≥60 years) who underwent recanalization therapy at the Department of Vascular Neurosurgery, New Era Stroke Care and Research Institute, PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, from November 2013 to July 2017. The data were compared between elderly patients (60–79 years) and very elderly patients (≥80 years). The effectiveness of recanalization therapy was evaluated using the 90-day modified Rankin scale (mRS) score, while safety was assessed by the rates of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (SICH) and mortality within 30 days. Results. A total of 151 patients with AIS induced by LAO were included in this study. Seventy-three patients (48.3% [73/151]) had an overall favorable outcome (mRS score 0–2) after treatment. A higher proportion of patients in the elderly group showed a favorable outcome compared with the very elderly group (58.6% [34/58] vs. 41.6% [39/93], respectively;

P
=
0.046

). The incidence of SICH (12.7% vs. 16.13%, respectively;

P
=
0.561

) and mortality (10.3% vs. 7.5%, respectively;

P
=
0.548

) within 30 days was not significantly different between the two groups. Conclusion. Recanalization treatment of LAO is more effective in elderly patients compared with very elderly patients, while the safety of recanalization treatment is comparable between these two groups.
Knockdown of DIAPH3 Inhibits the Proliferation of Cervical Cancer Cells through Inactivating mTOR Signaling Pathway
Authors: Wan Linling , Zhu Jiamin , Wu Qunying
Published: October 2021

Cervical cancer (CC) ranks fourth for both incidence and mortality among females in worldwide. Therefore, it is urgent to explore new therapeutic and diagnostic targets for cervical cancer. Diaphanous-related formin 3 (DIAPH3) has been identified to play crucial roles in many malignant tumors. But its function and potential mechanism in CC remain largely unknown. In our study, DIAPH3 was frequently upregulated in CC tissue samples and increased expression of DIAPH3 was associated with poor overall survival according to several databases. Through in vitro and in vivo experiments, we found that decreased expression levels of DIAPH3 significantly inhibited the progression of CC. The GSEA analysis and western blot assay indicated that DIAPH3 was associated with the mTOR signaling pathway. The univariate and multivariate Cox analysis indicated that DIAPH3 was an independent prognosis risk factor in TCGA-CESC. And we confirmed that DIAPH3 expression was clearly related to tumor immune infiltrating cells (TIICs) by the analysis of CIBERSORT and TIMER databases. Taken together, we revealed that DIAPH3 plays as an oncogene through mTOR signaling pathway and DIAPH3 might be a potential prognostic biomarker in CC.
Research and Implementation of the Sports Analysis System Based on 3D Image Technology
Authors: Wang Hongwei , Gao Jie , Liu Jingjing
Published: October 2021

On the basis of existing research, this paper analyzes the algorithms and technologies of 3D image‐based sports models in depth and proposes a fusion depth map in view of some of the shortcomings of the current hot spot sports model methods based on 3D images. We use the 3D space to collect the depth image, remove the background from the depth map, recover the 3D motion model from it, and then build the 3D model database. In this paper, based on the characteristics of continuity in space and smoothness in time of a rigid body moving target, a reasonable rigid body target motion hypothesis is proposed, and a three‐dimensional motion model of a rigid body target based on the center of rotation of the moving target and corresponding motion is designed to solve the equation with parameters. In the case of unknown motion law, shape, structure, and size of the moving target, this algorithm can achieve accurate measurement of the three‐dimensional rigid body motion target’s self‐rotation center and related motion parameters. In the process of motion parameter calculation, the least square algorithm is used to process the feature point data, thereby reducing the influence of noise interference on the motion detection result and correctly completing the motion detection task. The paper gives the measurement uncertainty of the stereo vision motion measurement system through simulated and real experiments. We extract the human body motion trajectory according to the depth map and establish a motion trajectory database. For using the recognition algorithm of the sports model based on the 3D image, we input a set of depth map action sequences. After the above process, the 3D motion model is obtained and matched with the model in the 3D motion model database, and the sequence with the smallest distance is calculated. The corresponding motion trajectory is taken as the result of motion capture, and the efficiency of this system is verified through experiments.
Anomaly Detection Collaborating Adaptive CEEMDAN Feature Exploitation with Intelligent Optimizing Classification for IIoT Sparse Data
Authors: Zhao Jianming , Zeng Peng , Wan Ming , Xu Xinlu , Li Jinfang , Jiang Qimei
Published: October 2021

IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) has gained considerable attention and has been increasingly applied due to its ubiquitous sensing and communication. However, the sparse characteristic of sensing data in distributed IIoT networks may bring out tremendous challenges to implement the security protection measures. Based on the design of centralized data gathering and forwarding, this paper proposes a novel anomaly detection approach for IIoT sparse data, which can successfully collaborate the adaptive CEEMDAN (Complete Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition with Adaptive Noise) feature exploitation with one intelligent optimizing classification. Furthermore, in the adaptive CEEMDAN feature exploitation, the CEEMDAN energy entropy based on adaptive IMF (Intrinsic Mode Function) selection is designed to extract the sensing features from IIoT sparse data; in the intelligent optimizing classification, one effective OCSVM (One‐Class Support Vector Machine) classifier optimized by the IABC (Improved Artificial Bee Colony) swarm intelligence algorithm is introduced to detect various abnormal sensing features. The experimental results show that, not only does the CEEMDAN energy entropy based on adaptive IMF selection accurately describe the change of industrial production by analyzing the probability distribution and energy distribution of sparse sensing data, but also the proposed IABC‐OCSVM classifier has higher detection efficiency compared with the OCSVM classifiers optimized by other swarm intelligence algorithms.
Artificial Intelligence‐Assisted Visual Sensing Technology under Duodenoscopy of Gallbladder Stones
Authors: Li Dongyan , Du Bin , Shen Youhui , Ge Lin
Published: October 2021

Objective. This study is aimed at exploring the application effect of duodenoscopy assisted by visual sensing technology based on convolutional neural network (CNN) segmentation algorithm in the diagnosis and treatment of gallbladder stones, so as to provide safer and more effective treatment methods for patients with gallstones. Methods. 188 patients with gallstones and choledocholithiasis who were admitted to our hospital from January 2016 to April 2021 were selected as the research objects. Based on whether the patients were willing to use AI‐assisted visual sensing technology during the treatment process, all patients were divided into two groups, namely, the AI group and the conventional group. Various surgical indicators of patients in two groups were compared. Results. The precision, recall, and mean intersection ratio of the M‐Unet‐based segmentation algorithm were 94.56%, 96.56%, and 98.92%, respectively. In the AI group, the operation time (2.74 ± 0.45 h), postoperative drainage tube placement time (4.31 ± 1.15 d), time required for recovery of gastrointestinal function (1.74 ± 0.54 d), time required to get out of bed (1.14 ± 0.55 h), and time spent in hospital (9.94 ± 1.45 d) were all shorter compared with those in the conventional group, which were 3.21 ± 0.32 h, 12.14 ± 2.98 d, 2.89 ± 0.67 d, 2.09 ± 0.87 h, and 14.14 ± 1.15 h, showing statistical differences (P < 0.05); the intraoperative blood loss (79.74 ± 6.45 mL) and residual status of stones (0%) in the AI group were much lower than those in the conventional group (P < 0.05). In addition, the incidence of complications (10.26%) and the indicators of postoperative gallbladder function of patients in the AI group were lower greatly than those in the conventional group (P < 0.05). Conclusion. The visual sensing technology assisted by the CNN algorithm showed a good effect on image processing, and endoscopic technology can effectively improve the treatment effect of gallbladder stones combined with choledocholithiasis with the aid of this technology. Therefore, the conclusion in this study proved that visual sensing technology based on intelligent algorithms showed a good future in the medical field.
Alpha-
F
-Convex Contraction Mappings in
b
-Metric Space and a Related Fixed Point Theorem
Authors: Geleta Kitila Wirtu , Tola Kidane Koyas , Teweldemedhin Solomon Gebregiorgis
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we establish fixed point theorems for

α

-

F

-convex contraction mappings in

b

-metric space and prove the existence and uniqueness of fixed points for such mappings. Our result extends and generalizes comparable results in the existing literature. Finally, we provide an example in support of our main finding.
Microbial Safety of Milk from Vending Machines in the Informal Settlements of Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Holi Kevin W. , Njue Lucy G. , Abong’ George O.
Published: October 2021

The microbial quality of milk is an important parameter in determining its safety. Processes such as pasteurization are meant to ensure milk is safe for consumption; however, postpasteurization activities could lead to milk contamination, hence threatening the health of consumers. This study sought to determine the microbial safety of milk obtained from vending machines that were located in Nairobi’s informal settlements of Kibra and Dagoretti North. 37 milk samples were collected both from the storage tanks and vending machines located in the study area using a cross-sectional design and tested for microbial safety. Data were then recorded in datasheets and analyzed using frequencies and t-test with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences software. Milk samples tested had acceptable levels of pH with a mean of 6.75; however, the pH of samples from the vending machines was lower than that of samples from the storage tanks. Milk samples from the vending machines had high levels of total viable count (Log 4.7028 cfu/mL) with 81% of the samples having counts beyond the acceptable standard. High levels of Staphylococcus aureus (Log 2.5485 cfu/mL) were also detected in 51% of the samples. Escherichia coli was detected in 27% of the milk samples from the vending machines, while Salmonella spp. was not detected. There was a significant increase in the number of total viable counts (P≤0.001), Staphylococcus aureus (P≤0.007), and Escherichia coli (P≤0.015) in milk samples from the vending machines compared to samples from the storage tanks. Study findings show that milk from the vending machines in the selected informal settlements of Nairobi is highly contaminated and can pose a health risk to consumers if taken without any further heat treatment. Milk vending machine handlers should be trained on practices that safeguard the quality and safety of milk. Public awareness should also be created on the general safety of milk from vending machines to protect consumers from potential health risks resulting from drinking contaminated milk.
Barrier Solutions of Elliptic Differential Equations in Musielak-Orlicz-Sobolev Spaces
Authors: Dong Ge , Fang Xiaochun
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we study the solution set of the following Dirichlet boundary equation:

−
div

a

1

x
,
u
,
D
u

+

a

0

x
,
u

=
f

x
,
u
,
D
u

in Musielak-Orlicz-Sobolev spaces, where

a

1

:
Ω
×
ℝ
×

ℝ

N

⟶

ℝ

N

,

a

0

:
Ω
×
ℝ
⟶
ℝ

, and

f

:

Ω

×

ℝ

×

ℝ

N

⟶

ℝ

are all Carathéodory functions. Both

a

1

and

f

depend on the solution

u

and its gradient

D
u

. By using a linear functional analysis method, we provide sufficient conditions which ensure that the solution set of the equation is nonempty, and it possesses a greatest element and a smallest element with respect to the ordering “≤,” which are called barrier solutions.
Relationships between Cognitive Function and Odor Identification, Balance Capability, and Muscle Strength in Middle-Aged Persons with and without Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Midorikawa Manabu , Suzuki Hiroaki , Suzuki Yasuhiro , Yamauchi Kazuyoshi , Sato Hiroyuki , Nemoto Kiyotaka , Sugano Yoko , Iwasaki Hitoshi , Sekiya Motohiro , Yatoh Shigeru , Yahagi Naoya , Hada Yasushi , Arai Tetsuaki , Shimano Hitoshi
Published: October 2021

Aim. We investigated the relationship between cognitive function and olfactory and physical functions in middle-aged persons with and without type 2 diabetes (T2D) to examine the potential of olfactory and physical functions as biomarkers for early cognitive impairment. Methods. Enrolled were 70 T2D patients (age 40 to <65 y) and 81 age-matched control participants without diabetes. Cognitive function was assessed by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Trail Making Test parts A and B (TMT-A/-B), Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology Self-Report (QIDS), and Starkstein Apathy Scale (SAS). Multiple linear regression analyses were performed. Results. Odor identification was an independent determinant shown in the results of the TMT-A in the entire participant group and was independently associated with the MoCA and TMT-B in the T2D group. Balance capability assessed with a stabilometer was independently associated with all cognitive function tests except for QISD and SAS in the entire participant group and the T2D group and was independently associated with TMT-A in the control group. Knee extension strength was independently associated with the SAS in the entire participant group and the T2D group. Conclusions. Odor identification, balance capability, and knee extension strength were potential markers for cognitive decline in middle-aged persons with T2D.
Effectiveness of Physical Activity Interventions among Rural Cancer Survivors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mama Scherezade K. , Lopez-Olivo Maria A. , Bhuiyan Nishat , Leach Heather J.
Published: October 2021

This review estimated the effectiveness of behavior change interventions to increase physical activity (PA) among rural adult cancer survivors. PubMed Medline, CINAHL, and PsychINFO were systematically searched through July 2020. Two independent investigators screened citations to identify studies to increase PA in adults residing in rural areas who had received any cancer diagnosis. Meta-analyses were conducted to assess proportion of participants achieving PA goal, paired mean difference (MD) in aerobic PA and strength training, and retention from baseline to post-intervention. Seven studies met inclusion criteria encompassing a total of 722 participants (591 in intervention and 131 controls). Overall quality of evidence was low to medium. The pooled proportion of participants achieving PA goals (150–225 min/wk) was 39% [95% confidence interval (CI), 18%–62%]. The mean time spent engaging in aerobic PA increased from baseline to post-intervention (range, 6–52 weeks) by 97.7 min/wk (95% CI, 75.0–120.4), and the MD in time spent on strength training was 12.2 min/wk (95% CI, −8.3–32.8). The pooled retention rate was 82% (95% CI, 69%–92%) at 6 to 78 weeks. Because of the modest intervention effects, low quality of evidence, and small number of studies, further rigorously designed behavior change interventions, including randomized controlled trials with long-term follow up, are needed to confirm efficacy for increasing PA in rural cancer survivors and to test innovative implementation strategies to enhance reach and effectiveness.
Nasobiliary Drain Diverted through a Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy Tube: A Novel Approach to Nasobiliary Drainage
Authors: Pantzaris Nikolaos Dimitrios , Lord Tim , Sotheran Robyn , Hutchinson John , Millson Charles
Published: October 2021

Intractable pruritus is a common, debilitating symptom and a well-defined entity occurring in chronic cholestatic disorders. Treatment options include cholestyramine, rifampicin, naltrexone, gabapentin, and sertraline, as well as more interventional measures, such as plasmapheresis, extracorporeal albumin dialysis, nasobiliary drains (NBDs), and UVB phototherapy in patients who fail to respond to medical therapy. Despite the limited data, NBD seems to be a highly effective treatment in the relief of refractory cholestatic pruritus. In this article, we present the case of a 73-year-old woman with primary biliary cholangitis and intractable pruritus, refractory to medical treatment. The patient had a complete resolution of her symptoms following an NBD placement, in which, with a novel approach, the nasal end was redirected and exited through a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy port, significantly improving her quality of life.
Retropharyngeal Abscess in a Fourteen-Month-Old Child Presenting with Dysphagia and Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Case Report
Authors: Alkhadem Zahar , Lutfi Lubna , Ali Doha , Mohammed Asma Anan , Hamadi Iyad Said
Published: October 2021

Retropharyngeal abscess is a relatively uncommon midline deep neck space infection that extends from the base of the skull to the posterior mediastinum, situated between the buccopharyngeal and alar fascias. In this case report, we present a 14-month-old previously healthy female patient who had a high-grade fever for 7 days, associated with neck stiffness and restriction of neck movements to the right side. Her parents noticed decreased oral intake associated with dysphagia, muffled quality of voice, and obstructive sleep apnea. However, the patient had no clinical signs of mechanical obstruction on examination. A contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan of the neck showed a large retropharyngeal septated fluid collection measuring 8 × 3 × 6 cm, which was categorized as a large retropharyngeal abscess that was complicated by descending mediastinitis. The patient was taken immediately to the operation theater for incision and drainage under general anesthesia, after which she was started on intravenous antibiotics.
Sinonasal Inverted Papilloma Associated with Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma
Authors: Takada Yohei , Asako Mikiya , Kawachi Risaki , Takada Tomoko , Iwai Hiroshi
Published: October 2021

Inverted papilloma is the most common benign tumor of the paranasal sinuses with the possibility of malignant transformation. On the one hand, adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is a rare malignant neoplasm that arises from the secretory glands. Sinonasal ACC accounts for 10%–25% of all head and neck ACC. This neoplasm is defined by its distinctive histologic appearance. Surgical resection, whenever possible, is the mainstay therapy. An association between inverted papilloma and malignancy is controversial. A synchronous carcinoma has been established at diagnosis in 3.3%–11% of cases, and the risk of metachronous carcinoma is <3%. We report a case of an 84-year-old female affected with sinonasal inverted papilloma associated with synchronous ACC. She had right nasal obstruction due to the rapid growth of the tumor. She was referred to our department for further workup. A frozen biopsy revealed part of the tumor as ACC. The tumor was consistent with preoperative imaging, and surgical findings also showed infiltration into the orbit. There was no consent for radical surgery with orbital exenteration and adjuvant chemoradiotherapy in consideration of her advanced age. This is the first case report of the association between sinonasal inverted papilloma and ACC within our retrieval capability.
Prevalence of Overweight and Obesity in Type 2 Diabetic Patients Visiting PHC in the Dubai Health Authority
Authors: Bawady Noorah , Aldafrawy Ola , ElZobair Elham Mohamed , Suliman Wafaa , Alzaabi Amal , Ahmed Suad Hashim
Published: October 2021

Background: Diabetes is a highly prevalent global and local major health problem according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and will double by 2045. A strong relationship between obesity and type 2 diabetes has been found. Both are leading causes of cardiovascular disease and death; thus, understanding the prevalence of obesity in type 2 diabetes is crucial for planning obesity management and preventing complications. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of obesity and overweight among people with type 2 diabetes attending primary healthcare centers (PHC) in the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). Methods: The study sample consisted of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients who attended family medicine clinics in primary healthcare centers in DHA. All cases with type 2 diabetes attending family clinics for their periodic health checkup screening were included in the study. Patients <18 years old, pregnant, and/or those with cancer and/or chronic kidney disease were excluded. Results: Our study sample had 9,198 type 2 diabetes mellitus cases with 51.6% males, 69.7% United Arab Emirates nationals, 7.9% who exercised regularly, and 1.8% who followed a healthy diet. Obesity and overweight cases were 49.5% and 35.5%, respectively. Conclusion: Without an aggressive obesity management approach, control of diabetes is difficult. The prevalence of obesity and overweight among people with type 2 diabetes is high. Obesity and overweight cases were 49.5% and 35.5%, respectively, among diabetic patients attending PHC. Over 50% (55%) of UAE nationals were obese, while 31.8% were overweight, suggesting that active interventions to control weight gain would be appropriate.
Da América para a Europa: uma história decolonial da Praça Maior a partir da Cidade do México
Authors: Salvat Ana Paula dos Santos
Published: October 2021

A historiografia eurocêntrica apresenta a Praça Maior como uma criação espanhola transferida para a América como centro de um modelo urbano de cidade colonial baseado na ortogonalidade e no ordenamento. Modelos urbanos com praças grandes e centralizadas são encontrados em diversas culturas em diferentes períodos históricos, mas raramente mencionam-se as experiências dos povos ameríndios no desenvolvimento de suas arquiteturas e de seus projetos urbanos, bem como suas permanências a partir da colonização. Em uma proposta de leitura urbana transcultural e transdisciplinar, apresenta-se a formação da Praça Maior da Cidade do México, tanto pela permanência dos elementos do centro de México-Tenochtitlan, os quais estão inseridos em uma longa tradição urbana mesoamericana, quanto pelas transformações castelhanas, constituídas por experiências ibéricas anteriores. Demonstra-se, assim, que o modelo da Praça Maior mexicana contribuiu com mudanças urbanas na Europa a partir da Praça Maior de Valladolid no século XVI.