bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Removal of nitrate in raw water using a vertical roughing filter with an external carbon source
Authors: Mohobane Lekhooa , Mutsvangwa Crispen , Asante Yaw Owusu
Published: July 2022

High nitrate concentration in water endangers health to both humans and livestock. The aim of this research was to investigate the efficacy of a roughing filter enhanced by an external carbon source in removing nitrate in raw water. Two upward vertical roughing filters in series were used—a vertical roughing filter with ethanol as a carbon source (VRFwt) and a vertical roughing filter without a carbon source (VRFwo). The average nitrate removal efficiency in a VRFwt was 88%, 70% and 83%, at carbon:nitrogen ratios (C/N ratio) of 1.05, 1.08 and 1.1, respectively. The average chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiency in the VRFwt was 75%, 43% and 46% at C/N ratios of 1.05, 1.08 and 1.1, respectively. The total average reduction of dissolved oxygen (DO) in the VRFwt at C/N ratios of 1.05, 1.08 and 1.1 was 42%, 54% and 51%, respectively, while the drop in the VRFwo was 17%, 18% and 17%. The VRFwt showed a high potential for removing nitrate in raw water. Therefore, when the VRFwt is applied at large scale, it would improve access to water sources that were previously declared unacceptable by many water utilities due to excessive nitrate concentrations.
Within‐island diversification in the land snail genus Formosana (Gastropoda, Clausiliidae) in Taiwan
Authors: Hwang Chung‐Chi , Ger Mang‐Jye , Wu Shu‐Ping
Published: July 2022

The morphology‐based species delimitation of the land snail genus Formosana (Clausiliidae) was questioned, due to the high intraspecific variability and interspecific similarity of morphological characters. The systematics of Formosana from Taiwan are revised using molecular, morphological, and anatomical data. Phylogenies were constructed based on four mitochondrial and nuclear markers, by means of maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference analyses. Twelve valid and endemic species and subspecies were recognised from Taiwan, six of which are newly described herein: Formosana nanaoensis sp. n., Formosana hsuehshanensis sp. n., Formosana lilongshanensis sp. n., Formosana katipulensis sp. n., Formosana kaluluanensis sp. n., and Formosana tianchihensis sp. n. In addition, three nominal species are maintained as synonyms of earlier described species. A congener from China is transferred to the genus Formosanella as a new combination, Formosanella friniana com. n. The variability in morphological characteristics, and resulting difficulties for their taxonomic implication are critically discussed. Divergence time estimation and ancestral range reconstructions indicate that the Taiwanese Formosana most likely colonised in eastern Taiwan, approximately 4.7 million years ago in the Early Pliocene, and then differentiated into four major clades. The speciation events mainly occurred during the Late Pliocene and the Early Pleistocene. The biogeography and diversification of Formosana in Taiwan are discussed, in light of the concept of palaeoislands.
Host-Associated Rhizobial Fitness: Dependence on Nitrogen, Density, Community Complexity, and Legume Genotype
Authors: Burghardt Liana T. , Epstein Brendan , Hoge Michelle , Trujillo Diana I. , Tiffin Peter
Published: July 2022

Legume crops establish beneficial associations with rhizobial bacteria that perform biological nitrogen fixation, providing nitrogen to plants without the economic and greenhouse gas emission costs of chemical nitrogen inputs. Here, we examine the influence of three environmental factors that vary in agricultural fields on strain relative fitness in nodules.
Draft Genome Sequence of Pseudomonas sp. Strain MWU13-2517, Isolated from a Wild Cranberry Bog in Provincetown, MA
Authors: Yaeger Jordan , Soby Scott
Published: July 2022

Pseudomonas
spp. are dominant in many soils, but little is known about how they interact with other members of the soil microbiome.
Pseudomonas
sp. strain MWU13-2516, isolated from a wild cranberry bog in Massachusetts, has predicted genes for hemolysins, usually associated with pathogens, and type 6 secretion systems.
Increased Presence of Antibodies against Type I Interferons and Human Endogenous Retrovirus W in Intensive Care Unit COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Simula Elena Rita , Manca Maria Antonietta , Noli Marta , Jasemi Somaye , Ruberto Stefano , Uzzau Sergio , Rubino Salvatore , Manca Pietro , Sechi Leonardo A.
Published: July 2022

In this work, we report the increased presence of IFN autoantibodies in correlation with HERV-W-env autoantibodies in ICU COVID-19 patients. The novelty of the results is in the association of these IFN autoantibodies with autoantibodies against HERV-W-env, a protein recently discovered to be overexpressed in lymphocytes of COVID-19 patients and correlated with severe disease and pneumonia.
’We are trying to live in a normal way, but nothing is normal about us anymore…’: a qualitative study of women’s lived experiences of healthcare in opposition-controlled areas of Syria
Authors: Alhaffar Mervat , Hamid Aseel , Douedari Yazan , Howard Natasha
Published: July 2022

Introduction

The Syrian conflict, which has included mass killings, displacement, infrastructure destruction and illegal targeting of health facilities and staff mainly by the Syrian government and allies, is in its 10th year. This study explored the lived experiences of women within healthcare, both as health workers and service users, in Syrian opposition-controlled areas (OCAs).

Methods

We chose a qualitative study design, with 20 in-depth interviews conducted remotely over WhatsApp and Messenger with purposively sampled Syrian women (ie, 15 health workers, 5 service users). We analysed data using interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Results

Anxiety, fear and horror affected women’s everyday work and wellness. Excess workload and insecurity were major challenges for women health workers, who also had household and caring responsibilities. Coping mechanisms included: (1) normalising death; (2) acceptance of God’s will; and (3) focusing on controllable issues such as health services provision while accepting the reality of insecurity and death. Conflict contributed to changing social norms and expectations, and women became key actors in healthcare provision, though this did not translate directly into greater decision-making authority. Structural biases (eg, lack of maternity leave) and gender-based violence (eg, increased harassment and child marriage) inordinately affected women.

Conclusion

This is a first effort to amplify women’s voices in health policy and systems research on the Syrian conflict. Women have become key healthcare providers in OCAs but remain under-represented in decision making. While the conflict-related social transformation, increasing the role of—and demand for—women health workers could be viewed positively for women’s empowerment, the reality is complex and long-term implications are unclear.
Salt restriction and risk of adverse outcomes in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Li Jiayong , Zhen Zhe , Huang Peisen , Dong Yu-Gang , Liu Chen , Liang Weihao
Published: July 2022

Background

The optimal salt restriction in patients with heart failure (HF), especially patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), remains controversial.

Objective

To investigate the associations of cooking salt restriction with risks of clinical outcomes in patients with HFpEF.

Methods

Cox proportional hazards model and subdistribution hazards model were used in this secondary analysis in 1713 participants with HFpEF from the Americas in the TOPCAT trial. Cooking salt score was the sum of self-reported salt added during homemade food preparation. The primary endpoint was a composite of cardiovascular death, HF hospitalisation and aborted cardiac arrest, and secondary outcomes were all-cause death, cardiovascular death and HF hospitalisation.

Results

Compared with patients with cooking salt score 0, patients with cooking salt score >0 had significantly lower risks of the primary endpoint (HR=0.760, 95% CI 0.638 to 0.906, p=0.002) and HF hospitalisation (HR=0.737, 95% CI 0.603 to 0.900, p=0.003), but not all-cause (HR=0.838, 95% CI 0.684 to 1.027, p=0.088) or cardiovascular death (HR=0.782, 95% CI 0.598 to 1.020, p=0.071). Sensitivity analyses using propensity score matching baseline characteristics and in patients who prepared meals mostly at home yielded similar results. Subgroup analysis suggested that the association between overstrict salt restriction and poor outcomes was more predominant in patients aged ≤70 years and of non-white race.

Conclusion

Overstrict cooking salt intake restriction was associated with worse prognosis in patients with HFpEF, and the association seemed to be more predominant in younger and non-white patients. Clinicians should be prudent when giving salt restriction advice to patients with HFpEF.
Preinduced reovirus-specific T-cell immunity enhances the anticancer efficacy of reovirus therapy
Authors: Groeneveldt Christianne , Kinderman Priscilla , van Stigt Thans Jordi J C , Labrie Camilla , Griffioen Lisa , Sluijter Marjolein , van den Wollenberg Diana J M , Hoeben Rob C , den Haan Joke M M , van der Burg Sjoerd H , van Hall Thorbald , van Montfoort Nadine
Published: July 2022

Background

Many solid tumors do not respond to immunotherapy due to their immunologically cold tumor microenvironment (TME). We and others found that oncolytic viruses (OVs), including reovirus type 3 Dearing, can enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy by recruiting CD8+T cells to the TME. A significant part of the incoming CD8+T cells is directed toward reovirus itself, which may be detrimental to the efficacy of OVs. However, here we aim to exploit these incoming virus-specific T cells as anticancer effector cells.

Methods

We performed an in-depth characterization of the reovirus-induced T-cell response in immune-competent mice bearing pancreatic KPC3 tumors. The immunodominant CD8+T-cell epitope of reovirus was identified using epitope prediction algorithms and peptide arrays, and the quantity and quality of reovirus-specific T cells after reovirus administration were assessed using high-dimensional flow cytometry. A synthetic long peptide (SLP)-based vaccination strategy was designed to enhance the intratumoral frequency of reovirus-specific CD8+T cells.

Results

Reovirus administration did not induce tumor-specific T cells but rather induced high frequencies of reovirus-specific CD8+T cells directed to the immunodominant epitope. Priming of reovirus-specific T cells required a low-frequent population of cross-presenting dendritic cells which was absent inBatf3-/-mice. While intratumoral and intravenous reovirus administration induced equal systemic frequencies of reovirus-specific T cells, reovirus-specific T cells were highly enriched in the TME exclusively after intratumoral administration. Here, they displayed characteristics of potent effector cells with high expression of KLRG1, suggesting they may be responsive against local reovirus-infected cells. To exploit these reovirus-specific T cells as anticancer effector cells, we designed an SLP-based vaccination strategy to induce a strong T-cell response before virotherapy. These high frequencies of circulating reovirus-specific T cells were reactivated on intratumoral reovirus administration and significantly delayed tumor growth.

Conclusions

These findings provide proof of concept that OV-specific T cells, despite not being tumor-specific, can be exploited as potent effector cells for anticancer treatment when primed before virotherapy. This is an attractive strategy for low-immunogenic tumors lacking tumor-specific T cells.
Cost-effectiveness of motivational counselling and text reminders in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: results based on a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Sørensen Jan , Esbensen Bente Appel , Aadahl Mette , Hetland Merete Lund , Thomsen Tanja
Published: July 2022

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of an individually tailored intervention consisting of motivational counselling and text message reminders to reduce sedentary behaviour in comparison with usual lifestyle in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

RA patients (n=150) were randomised to the intervention or control group. Costs of the intervention and healthcare utilisation during a 22-month follow-up period were reported. Outcomes were objectively measured as 24 hours/7 days sitting time and self-reported Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) and EQ-5D scores at baseline, and 16 weeks, 10 and 22 months after baseline. Cost-effectiveness was reported as incremental cost-effectiveness ratios and statistical uncertainty presented as cost-effectiveness acceptability curves.

Results

The intervention cost was estimated at €387 per participant. The mean incremental 22-month healthcare cost was €−1165 (95% bootstrap CI −5613 to 3283). An incremental 20%-point of the participants (CI 10.4% to 29.6%) reduced their daily sitting time more than 50 min and 36%-point reported better HAQ scores (change>0.22). The time-weighted health utilities (quality-adjusted life years (QALYs)) increased by 0.10 (CI 0.02 to 0.18) and 0.11 (CI 0.04 to 0.19) for EQ-5D index and EQ-VAS, respectively. The intervention dominated usual lifestyle by offering better outcomes and lower costs. With a threshold value of €30 000/QALY the intervention has a probability of 95% of being cost-effective.

Conclusion

This protocolised cost-effectiveness analysis showed that an individually tailored intervention aimed at reducing sedentary behaviour in patients with RA is improving participants’ 22-month health status and reducing healthcare costs. These results suggest that the intervention should be implemented in routine rheumatology care.

Trial registration number

NCT01969604.Trial registration number
Femtoscopic study on $$DD^*$$ and $$D\bar{D}^*$$ interactions for $$T_{cc}$$ and X(3872)
Authors: Kamiya Yuki , Hyodo Tetsuo , Ohnishi Akira
Published: July 2022

We investigate $$DD^*$$

D

D
∗

and $$D\bar{D}^*$$

D

D

¯

∗

momentum correlations in high-energy collisions to elucidate the nature of $$T_{cc}$$

T

cc

and X(3872) exotic hadrons. Single range Gaussian potentials with the channel couplings to the isospin partners are constructed based on the empirical data within the pure hadronic-molecule picture. The momentum correlation functions of the $$D^0D^{*+}$$

D
0

D

∗
+

, $$D^+D^{*0}$$

D
+

D

∗
0

, $$D^0\bar{D}^{*0}$$

D
0

D

¯

∗
0

, and $$D^+D^{*-}$$

D
+

D

∗
-

pairs are computed with including the coupled-channel effects. We discuss how the nature of the exotic states are reflected in the behaviors of the correlation results.
A central limit theorem for star-generators of S∞, which relates to traceless CCR-GUE matrices
Authors: Campbell Jacob , Köstler Claus , Nica Alexandru
Published: July 2022

We prove a limit theorem concerning the sequence of star-generators of [Formula: see text], where the expectation functional is provided by a character of [Formula: see text] with weights [Formula: see text] in the Thoma classification. The limit law turns out to be the law of a “traceless CCR-GUE” matrix, an analogue of the traceless GUE where the off-diagonal entries [Formula: see text] satisfy the commutation relation [Formula: see text]. The special case [Formula: see text] yields the law of a bona fide traceless GUE matrix, and we retrieve a result of Köstler and Nica from 2021, which in turn extended a result of Biane from 1995.
DOES DIGITAL INCLUSIVE FINANCE PROMOTE ENTREPRENEURSHIP? EVIDENCE FROM CHINESE CITIES
Authors: GAO YUQIANG , LU YUCHEN , WANG JUNRONG
Published: July 2022

There is a significant interest among policymakers and academics about whether or not digital inclusive finance (DIF) has achieved its intended effect in promoting entrepreneurship in China. This paper addresses this question from both the theoretical and empirical perspectives. Based on the panel data of 284 prefecture-level cities from 2011 to 2019 in China, this paper empirically explores the influence and mechanism of DIF on urban entrepreneurship by employing the fixed effect model and the interactive fixed effects model. The results show that the aggregate index of DIF, coverage breadth index (CBI), usage depth index (UDI) and digitization-level index (DLI) of DIF do significantly promote entrepreneurship. Moreover, further tests of robustness and endogenous treatment also have proved incentive effect. DIF can promote entrepreneurship through three mechanisms: increasing government infrastructure investment, stimulating resident consumption and motivating enterprise innovation. Heterogeneity analysis shows that the effect of DIF in promoting entrepreneurship is more obvious in medium-sized enterprises, the western regions and regions with low levels of entrepreneurship. Therefore, the government needs to vigorously accelerate the development of DIF and create a good external environment for entrepreneurship. DIF policies should be regionally differentiated to more effectively achieve the entrepreneurial targets.
Constraints on cosmological parameters in light of the scalar–tensor theory of gravity and swampland conjectures
Authors: Gashti S. Noori , Sadeghi J.
Published: July 2022

In this paper, we study various cosmological parameters and quantities in scalar–tensor gravity (STG) from inflation and swampland conjecture. Therefore, by selecting different models as power-law, exponential, and logarithmic in the framework of scalar–tensor theory, we obtain potential, tensor-to-scalar ratio, and the scalar spectral index. Next, we examine new constraints and compare the corresponding results with the latest observable data. Here, we take advantage of the obtained results and determine the compatibility or incompatibility of the corresponding model with the swampland conjectures.
ATLDesigner: ATL Model Checking Using An Attribute Grammar
Authors: Stoica Laura F. , Stoica Florin
Published: July 2022

In this paper, we use attribute grammars as a formal approach for model checkers development. Our aim is to design an Alternating-Time Temporal Logic (ATL) model checker from a context-free grammar which generates the language of the ATL formulae. An attribute grammar may be informally defined as a context-free grammar which is extended with a set of attributes and a collection of semantic rules. We provide a formal definition for an attribute grammar used as input for Another Tool for Language Recognition (ANTLR) to generate an ATL model checker. The original implementation of the model-checking algorithm is based on Relational Databases and Web Services. Several database systems and Web Services technologies were used for evaluating the system performance in verification of large ATL models.
EFFECTS OF CERVICAL TRACTION AND INFRARED THERAPY ON PAIN INTENSITY AND NECK DISABILITY INDEX AMONG PEOPLE WITH CERVICAL SPONDYLOSIS: A CROSS-OVER COHORT STUDY
Authors: Igwe Augustine Asiduba , Onyeso Ogochukwu Kelechi , Ezema Charles Ikechukwu , Eyichukwu Gabriel Okey , Ejim Emmanuel Chukwudi , Egwuonwu Victor A. , Onwujekwe Obinna , Amaeze Amaeze Augustine , Okoye Goddy Chuba
Published: July 2022

Objective: To investigate the effects of six-week cervical traction and infrared therapy on neck pain intensity (PI) and neck disability index (NDI) among individuals with cervical spondylosis.

Methods: This study was a non-randomized cross-over cohort design. A total of 40 participants (men=20, and women=20) who were purposively selected, received a six-week infrared therapy, observed a one-week washout period, and then six-week concurrent infrared therapy and cervical traction. The PI and NDI were measured at baseline, after infrared therapy, the washout period, and infrared plus cervical traction. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of variance (RM ANOVA), Friedman’s ANOVA, independent samples t-test, and Kendall’s tau correlation test.

Result: The mean age of the participants was 40±8.60 years. Infrared therapy plus cervical traction significantly reduced PI: [Formula: see text]2(3)=102.06, [Formula: see text], and NDI: F (1, 39) = 222.56, [Formula: see text], relative to infrared therapy alone. Specifically, the minimum clinically important difference (MCID) for PI was 2.2, while infrared alone reduced the PI by 1.0 (Z = 4.633, [Formula: see text]), infrared therapy plus cervical traction reduced PI by 6.0 (Z = 7.405, [Formula: see text]). The MCID for NDI was 8.50, while infrared alone reduced the NDI by 1.05 (t = 30.087, [Formula: see text]), infrared therapy plus cervical traction reduced NDI by 15.83 ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]).

Conclusion: Concurrent infrared and cervical traction significantly reduced PI and NDI among patients with cervical spondylosis more than lone infrared therapy.
DISTAL TIBIA SOLITARY OSTEOCHONDROMA-A CASE SERIES
Authors: Bishnoi Ramniwas , Jain Hemant , Bharwani Nandlal , Chouhan Jayesh , Choudhary Pradeep , Bhati Mahesh
Published: July 2022

Introduction: Distal tibia involvement is very rare and it merely accounts for around 4% of all the excised lesions. (Mirra, 1989) Distal tibia osteochondromas mainly present pain, deformity like varus/valgus around ankle joint, pathologic fractures of surrounding structures and for the above-mentioned problems, surgical excision has to be considered as a possible option. (Ismail et al., 2008).

Methods: We conducted a prospective study from 1st June 2018 to 1st June 2021 including five patients (4 males and 1 female) with distal tibia osteochondroma. In our study, surgical excision was performed in all the cases. Pre-operative and at final follow-up ‘AOFAS-AHFS score’ and ‘VAS score’ were evaluated.

Results: All five patients had good functional outcome at final follow-up, mean AOFAS-AHFS score improved from 61.2±5.4 to 85±3.39, and mean VAS score improved from 7.2±0.83 to 0.8±0.44 at final follow-up and found no difficulty in daily routine activities. All patients had complete ROM at final follow-up.

Conclusion: Distal tibia osteochondroma has good functional outcome and less complications, if managed properly.
Efficient trace-free decomposition of symmetric tensors of arbitrary rank
Authors: Toth Viktor T. , Turyshev Slava G.
Published: July 2022

Symmetric trace-free tensors are used in many areas of physics, including electromagnetism, relativistic celestial mechanics and geodesy, as well as in the study of gravitational radiation and gravitational lensing. Their use allows integration of the relevant wave propagation equations to arbitrary order. We present an improved iterative method for the trace-free decomposition of symmetric tensors of arbitrary rank. The method can be used both in coordinate-free symbolic derivations using a computer algebra system and in numerical modeling. We obtain a closed-form representation of the trace-free decomposition in arbitrary dimensions. To demonstrate the results, we compute the coordinate combinations representing the symmetric trace-free (STF) mass multipole moments for rank 5 through 8, not readily available in the literature.
Effect of Polymer Structure on the Size and Shape of Metal and Metal Oxide Nanopowder: An HR-TEM Approach
Authors: Meenarathi B. , Thamizhlarasan A. , Kannammal L. , Eunice S. Luna , Jancirani A. , Ranchani A. Amala Jeya , Anbarasan R.
Published: July 2022

A metal and metal oxide quantum dot (QD) was synthesized by a simultaneous oxidative reduction method. Aniline was polymerized both in the presence and absence of o-toluidine (OT) as a co-monomer and in the presence of peroxomonosulfate (PMS) as a free radical initiator in N-methyl pyrrolidone (NMP) medium at 0–5∘C for 3 h under vigorous stirring condition. The metal or metal oxide bulk powder was used as source material for the generation of QD. At the end of the reaction a dark green colored polymer was formed, filtered and dried at 110∘C for overnight. The dried polymer was subjected to HR-TEM analysis. The size and shape of the crystals formed were noted and compared with the literature reports.
Sharp remainder of the Poincaré inequality for Baouendi–Grushin vector fields
Authors: Suragan Durvudkhan , Yessirkegenov Nurgissa
Published: July 2022

In this note, we establish a sharp remainder formula for the Poincaré inequality for the Baouendi–Grushin vector fields. We give a simple proof for it without using the variational principle. As an application, we obtain a blow-up result for solutions to the Dirichlet initial-boundary value problem for the Baouendi–Grushin heat operator.
Hardware Implementation of Attitude Estimation Methods Using Multiple GPS Receivers
Authors: Dhahbane Djamel , Sakhi Samir , Nemra Abdelkrim
Published: July 2022

This paper deals with the attitude estimation issue for navigation of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). We propose a new multi-GPS sensor fusion, based on Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) and Smooth Variable Structure Filter (SVSF), using an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) and three GPS receivers. Two methods; the Direct Computing Method (DCM) and the Least Square Method (LSM) are used to estimate the full attitude of the UAV. Performance and robustness are tested with numerical simulation. Experimental validation is carried out on fixed-wing aircraft to evaluate the capabilities of the proposed approaches in attitude estimation. Through this framework, it is proven that subdegrees order of estimation error can be guaranteed when real dynamic situations are applied to the aircraft.
Multi-Purpose, Multi-Step Deep Learning Framework for Network-Level Traffic Flow Prediction
Authors: Shoman Maged , Amo-Boateng Mark , Adu-Gyamfi Yaw
Published: July 2022

This study proposes a data fusion and deep learning (DL) framework that learns high-level traffic features from network-level images to predict large-scale, multi-route, speed and volume of connected vehicles (CVs). We present a scalable and parallel method of processing statewide CVs’ trajectory data that leads to real-time insights on the micro-scale in time and space (two-dimensional (2D) arrays) on graphics processing unit (GPUs) using the Nvidia rapids framework and dask parallel cluster, which provided a 50× speed-up in the data extraction, transform and load (ETL). A UNet model is then applied to perform feature extraction and multi-route speed and volume channels over a multi-step prediction horizon. The accuracy and robustness of the proposed model are evaluated by taking different road types, times of day and image snippets and comparing the model to benchmarks: Convolutional Long–Short-Term Memory (ConvLSTM) and a historical average (HA). The results show that the proposed model outperforms benchmarks with an average improvement of 15% over ConvLSTM and 65% over the HA. Comparing the image snippets from each prediction model to the actual image shows that image textures were highly similar in UNet to the benchmark models used. UNet’s dominance in performing image predictions was also evident in multi-step forecasting, where the increase in errors was relatively minimal over longer prediction horizons.
Toward Efficient and Adaptive Design of Video Detection System with Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Mao Jiachen , Yang Qing , Li Ang , Nixon Kent W. , Li Hai , Chen Yiran
Published: July 2022

In the past decade, Deep Neural Networks (DNNs), e.g., Convolutional Neural Networks, achieved human-level performance in vision tasks such as object classification and detection. However, DNNs are known to be computationally expensive and thus hard to be deployed in real-time and edge applications. Many previous works have focused on DNN model compression to obtain smaller parameter sizes and consequently, less computational cost. Such methods, however, often introduce noticeable accuracy degradation. In this work, we optimize a state-of-the-art DNN-based video detection framework—Deep Feature Flow (DFF) from the cloud end using three proposed ideas. First, we propose Asynchronous DFF (ADFF) to asynchronously execute the neural networks. Second, we propose a Video-based Dynamic Scheduling (VDS) method that decides the detection frequency based on the magnitude of movement between video frames. Last, we propose Spatial Sparsity Inference, which only performs the inference on part of the video frame and thus reduces the computation cost. According to our experimental results, ADFF can reduce the bottleneck latency from 89 to 19 ms. VDS increases the detection accuracy by 0.6% mAP without increasing computation cost. And SSI further saves 0.2 ms with a 0.6% mAP degradation of detection accuracy.
A Novel Approach for Classification in Resource-Constrained Environments
Authors: Kumar Arun , Wang Zhijie , Srivastava Abhishek
Published: July 2022

Internet of Things’ (IoT) deployments are increasingly dependent upon learning algorithms to analyse collected data, draw conclusions, and take decisions. The norm is to deploy such learning algorithms on the cloud and have IoT nodes interact with the cloud. While this is effective, it is rather wasteful in terms of energy expended and temporal latency. In this article, the endeavour is to develop a technique that facilitates classification, an important learning algorithm, within the extremely resource constrained environments of IoT nodes. The approach comprises selecting a small number of representative data points, called prototypes, from a large dataset and deploying these prototypes over IoT nodes. The prototypes are selected in a manner that they appropriately represent the complete dataset and are able to correctly classify new, incoming data. The novelty lies in the manner of prototype selection for a cluster that not only considers the location of datapoints of its own cluster but also that of datapoints in neighboring clusters. The efficacy of the approach is validated using standard datasets and compared with state-of-the-art classification techniques used in constrained environments. A real world deployment of the technique is done over an Arduino Uno-based IoT node and shown to be effective.
In vitro airway models from mice, rhesus macaques, and humans maintain species differences in xenobiotic metabolism and cellular responses to naphthalene
Authors: Kelty Jacklyn , Kovalchuk Nataliia , Uwimana Eric , Yin Lei , Ding Xinxin , Van Winkle Laura
Published: July 2022

The translational value of high-throughput toxicity testing will depend on pharmacokinetic validation. Yet, popular in vitro airway epithelia models were optimized for structure and mucociliary function without considering the bioactivation or detoxification capabilities of lung-specific enzymes. This study evaluated xenobiotic metabolism maintenance within differentiated air-liquid interface (ALI) airway epithelial cell cultures (human bronchial; human, rhesus, and mouse tracheal), isolated airway epithelial cells (human, rhesus, and mouse tracheal; rhesus bronchial), and ex vivo microdissected airways (rhesus and mouse) by measuring gene expression, glutathione content, and naphthalene metabolism. Glutathione levels and detoxification gene transcripts were measured after 1-h exposure to 80 µM naphthalene (a bioactivated toxicant) or reactive naphthoquinone metabolites. Glutathione and glutathione-related enzyme transcript levels were maintained in ALI cultures from all species relative to source tissues, while cytochrome P450 monooxygenase gene expression declined. Notable species differences among the models included a 40-fold lower total glutathione content for mouse ALI trachea cells relative to human and rhesus; a higher rate of naphthalene metabolism in mouse ALI cultures for naphthalene-glutathione formation (100-fold over rhesus) and naphthalene-dihydrodiol production (10-fold over human); and opposite effects of 1,2-naphthoquinone exposure in some models—glutathione was depleted in rhesus tissue but rose in mouse ALI samples. The responses of an immortalized bronchial cell line to naphthalene and naphthoquinones were inconsistent with those of human ALI cultures. These findings of preserved species differences and the altered balance of phase I and phase II xenobiotic metabolism among the characterized in vitro models should be considered for future pulmonary toxicity testing.
Challenges and Countermeasures of Arab Immigrants and International Trade in the Era of Big Data
Authors: Huang Yi , Shao Miao
Published: July 2022

In recent years, the development of intelligent iteration technology and the use of big data processing technology have set off an upsurge, and the analysis and application of artificial intelligence algorithms have been paid more and more attention. In order to face the challenges of Arab migration and international trade, this paper constructs the basic structure of the Arab migration action imitation model. In this paper, a simulated servo clustering algorithm based on big data and intelligent iteration is used. Then, through the analysis of pseudo servo clustering algorithm, an optimization model is established, and a big data analysis system is formed. This paper focuses on the wide application of big data statistics to solve the construction of Arab immigration and entrepreneurship data system. This paper studies and applies the big data statistics and intelligent iterative algorithm of Arab immigration behavior, focuses on the annual ladder degree of Arab immigrants, and constructs a pseudo servo cluster system based on Intelligent iterative algorithm. Finally, the simulation experiment verifies whether the clustering model can accurately retrieve the behavior of Arab immigrants in China. The era of big data provides good development opportunities for Arab immigrants and international trade, but it also faces severe challenges. The study provides a reference for strengthening the analysis of international trade, and puts forward perfect countermeasures in combination with the actual situation, so as to improve the efficiency of international trade management and promote the better implementation of international trade.
N6‐Methyladenosine Reader YTHDF2 Enhances Non‐Small‐Cell Lung Cancer Cell Proliferation and Metastasis through Mediating circ_SFMBT2 Degradation
Authors: Xu Jing , Shang Yan , Qin Xiong , Gai Yun , Cai Feng , Xiao Hua , Zhou Chen , Fu Youhui , Ge Xiahui
Published: July 2022

Objective. circ_SFMBT2 was reported to facilitate malignant progression in various cancers, but its function in non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has not been fully uncovered. This study aimed to investigate the effects of N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) methylation of circ_SFMBT2 (circ_0017628) on non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and its underlying mechanisms. Methods. Paired tumor and noncancerous tissues from NSCLC patients were surgically collected from January 2020 to March 2021 in our hospital. The levels of circ_SFMBT2 and LATS2 in NSCLC and human bronchial epithelial cells were assayed with qRT‐PCR. Overexpression or silencing of circ_SFMBT2, LATS2, or YTHDF2 was performed in the NSCLC cells. CCK‐8, colony‐forming, and transwell assays were performed to analyze cell proliferation, viability, and migration, respectively. Meanwhile, the expression of MMP‐9, E‐cadherin, vimentin, and the Hippo/YAP pathway components was examined by western blotting. The m6A enrichment in circ_SFMBT2 was verified using methylated RNA immunoprecipitation, and interaction between circ_SFMBT2 and YTHDF2 was assessed by RNA pull‐down and immunoprecipitation assays. Results. Both circ_SFMBT2 and LATS2 were lowly expressed in NSCLC cells and tissues. A positive correlation of circ_SFMBT2 with LATS2 was identified, and circ_SFMBT2 was localized predominantly in the cytoplasm. circ_SFMBT2 overexpression negatively regulated cell proliferation, viability, migration, and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition while promoting the Hippo/YAP pathway activation. Notably, knockdown of LATS2 effectively abrogated the inhibitory effects of circ_SFMBT2 overexpression on NSCLC cell malignancies. Besides, m6A was specifically enriched in circ_SFMBT2, and circ_SFMBT2 could bind to YTHDF2. Silencing of YTHDF2 led to an increase in circ_SFMBT2 expression while inhibiting the malignancy of cancer cells. Conclusion. Our results showed that YTHDF2 could facilitate NSCLC cell proliferation and metastasis via the Hippo/YAP pathway activation by mediating circ_SFMBT2 degradation.
Visual Aggregation of Spatial Recognition Scientific Computations in the Financial Service Sector Based on the Random Forest Graph Model
Authors: Zheng Xiaowei , Yang Yaliu
Published: July 2022

In view of the current problems in the visual aggregation of the financial service industry, the random forest graph model is applied to the spatial recognition of the financial service industry’s scientific calculation visual aggregation in this paper. Based on the detailed analysis of the characteristics of the financial service industry in the past, combined with the characteristics of finance, this method is used to construct a random forest graph model, which mainly optimizes parameters from different aspects such as model structure, data characteristics, and dynamic changes of the model to obtain optimal parameter values of the random forest graph model. Finally, through the analysis of the experimental results, it can be seen that, according to the spatial state of the financial service industry, the method proposed in this paper can be used for visual aggregation analysis. This method can effectively improve the timeliness of the scientific calculation of spatial recognition in the financial service industry.
Effects of Splitting Airfoil’s Aspect Ratio on the Control of Separation and Loss Distribution in a Distortion Generator
Authors: Hassani M. , Bazazzadeh M. , Manshadi M. D.
Published: July 2022

The effects of aspect ratio (AR: opposite diameter to width) reduction on the total pressure loss distribution of horizontally arranged splitting airfoils are investigated experimentally and numerically. The array arrangement of airfoils is proposed as a novel distortion generator mechanism. The upgrade feasibility study of the single airfoil loss repeatability in combined pattern was the aim of the present research. Modification of 90° splitting airfoil as a representative of the airfoils category with

AR
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1

was a corrective approach to eliminate or delay the downstream wake axis rotation destructive effects on the combined loss predictability. The results of the modified airfoil (single and multiple arrangements) wake simulations based on hybrid turbulence model demonstrate a good agreement with wind tunnel measurements. It was observed that the aspect ratio reduction below the limiting value of “1” for selected opening angle provides the quasi-2D behavior of downstream flow structure related to

AR
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1

airfoil category along with relatively higher value of loss related to

AR
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1

category. Elimination of the side separation for modified 90° airfoil and the resulting similarity of maximum loss lobes positioning in arrangement of airfoils lead to the reduction of combined flow structure complexity and the improvement of loss predictability. It has appeared that combined loss pattern of the triple arrangement of the airfoils can be reconstructed from dual arrangement, and it can be reproduced from a single pattern in a hierarchical process. Concerning the maximum loss coefficient “values,” an overprediction of velocity recovery rate was observed in simulation results at the fully developed wake region that led to approximately 15% lower maximum loss values in comparison with the experiments.
Influence of the Driving Pressure on Mortality in ARDS Patients with or without Abdominal Obesity: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Li Shanshan , Chen Bin , Tong Chaoyang
Published: July 2022

Objective. This study sets out to explore if the relationship between the driving pressure and hospital mortality in ARDS patients is influenced by body mass index (BMI) level or the presence of abdominal obesity. Methods. Data were extracted from an online database named “Multiparameter Intelligent Monitoring in Intensive Care III.” A total of 1556 patients were included and divided into four subgroups based on both BMI level (BMI ≥30 kg/m2 or BMI ＜30 kg/m2) and abdominal assessment. Driving pressure [i.e., the difference between plateau pressure and positive end‐expiratory pressure (PEEP)] within 24 h of invasive mechanical ventilation was compared between survivors and nonsurvivors during hospitalization in each group. A logistic regression model was used for hospital mortality. Results. There were 1556 patients with mild‐to‐severe ARDS, 666 (42.80%) nonobese patients with nonabdominal obesity, 259 (16.65%) nonobese patients with abdominal obesity, 97 (6.23%) obese patients with nonabdominal obesity, and 534 (34.32%) obese patients with abdominal obesity. Driving pressure in nonobese patients with nonabdominal obesity was significantly lower in survivors (12.77 ± 4.53 cm H2O) than in nonsurvivors (14.26 ± 5.52 cm H2O, p < 0.01). On the contrary, in the other three groups, driving pressure was not significantly different between survivors and nonsurvivors. After a logistic multivariable regression analysis, in nonobese (BMI<30 kg/m2) patients with nonabdominal obesity, the driving pressure was independently associated with increased hospital mortality (OR: 1.04, 95% CI 1.00–1.09, p < 0.05) but not in the other three subgroups. Conclusion. Driving pressure is associated with increase in hospital mortality only in nonobese (BMI <30 kg/m2) patients with nonabdominal obesity.
Applying Polarimetric Target Decomposition to 2D Turntable ISAR Imagery of a Complex Vehicle
Authors: Demirci Sevket
Published: July 2022

The capabilities of polarimetric target decomposition in SAR-based ATR applications are investigated by using 2D turntable ISAR imagery of a T-72 tank. To characterize target’s anisotropic scattering properties, wide-angle case is considered through the employment of a distinct polarimetric analysis procedure based on angular averaging of the covariance matrix. The results of the application of the three types of coherent decomposition, that is, Pauli, Krogager, and Cameron decomposition, and one incoherent decomposition, that is, eigenvector/eigenvalue decomposition, are analyzed and compared in terms of the identification of the physical scattering mechanisms. The usefulness of the various secondary parameters, including orientation, symmetry, and entropy, is also discussed. It is found that Pauli and Krogager decomposition can be readily applied for quick discrimination between the odd- and even-bounce reflectors. For a more detailed description of scattering mechanisms, either the Cameron or eigenvector/eigenvalue decomposition can be employed since their classification images are shown to be mostly consistent with each other. The results demonstrate that the decomposition features can be effectively utilized in subsequent ATR processes.
Deep Learning-Based Artificial Neural Network-Cellular Automata Model in Constructing Landscape Gene in Shaanxi Ancient Towns under Rural Revitalization
Authors: Wei Xiameng
Published: July 2022

With the development of modern industrialization, the rational planning of land resources, especially rural settlements (RSs), has become an important part of rural revitalization. Optimizing the RS spatial layout and enhancing its evolution simulation can encourage effective land resource allocation. It helps improve rural residents’ production and living standards, alleviates the pressure of urban and rural land conflicts, and promotes the common development of urban and rural economies. This work mainly uses the ANN-CN (artificial neural network-cellular automata) model to study the cultural landscape gene construction of ancient towns in Shaanxi. First, RSs’ spatial layout and landscape pattern index (LPI) in Shaanxi are analyzed. Second, the ANN-CA model is designed using the artificial neural network (ANN). Finally, Hua Yang Ancient Town in southern Shaanxi, Feng Huo Town in Guan Zhong, and Zhong Jiao Town in Northern Shaanxi are selected as the research objects. The influencing factors of spatial layout are extracted, and the evolution extracted of spatial layout is simulated based on the ANN-CA model. The simulation experiment finds that the area change of Hua Yang Ancient Town is more obvious than that of the other two ancient towns, with a change rate of 6.98%. Although the area change rate of Feng Huo Town is 19.79%, the actual change area is less than that of Hua Yang Ancient Town. Second, comparing the simulation accuracy of the model under different parameters, we can obtain the most suitable parameter for predicting the ancient towns’ land-use type and construing landscape gene land. Specifically, for Hua Yang Ancient Town, T = 0.9 and the random disturbance parameter α = 1.0. For Zhong Jiao Town, T = 0.8 and α = 1.0. For Feng Huo Town, T = 0.9 and α = 1.0. It is hoped that this work can further carry forward Shaanxi’s traditional culture and carry out the protective development of traditional rural buildings.
English Characteristic Semantic Block Processing Based on English-Chinese Machine Translation
Authors: Yu Yuxiu
Published: July 2022

In order to solve the problem that the current English-Chinese machine translation software cannot understand the characteristics of English sentences repeatedly, a semantic block processing method for English-Chinese machine translation was proposed. In the process of the English sentence comprehension, English semantic block, which played an important role, was analyzed in detail. On the basis of this, the core content and characteristics of English semantic block were discussed. And with the help of the corresponding processing algorithms, taking verbs and business English as the research object, three kinds of semantic models were summarized. A lexical chunk database model based on English characteristic semantic block processing was proposed. The open test results showed that the matching success rate of the model for the semantic pattern database was about 90%.
Imaging Signs for Determining Surgery Timing of Acute Intestinal Obstruction
Authors: Li Zhenkai , Shi Liangliang , Zhang Jianhua , Sun Qiang , Ming Weidi , Wang Zhengming , Sun Hongzhi
Published: July 2022

We aimed to analyze the computed tomography (CT) imaging signs of bowel wall ischemia in patients with acute intestinal obstruction and construct an imaging prediction model to guide clinical treatment. The CT imaging signs of patients with acute intestinal obstruction diagnosed in our center in recent 6 years were collected for retrospective analysis. The etiology of intestinal obstruction and incidence rate of bowel wall ischemia were recorded, and the specific CT findings of bowel wall ischemia, including mesenteric edema, bowel wall thickening, and fish tooth sign, were analyzed. Among the 302 patients selected, 130 surgically treated patients were eligible for analysis. Bowel wall ischemia in acute intestinal obstruction showed an incidence rate of 14.90%, and the incidence rates of bowel wall ischemia in intra‐abdominal hernia, intussusception, incarcerated external abdominal hernia, and volvulus were about 92.30%, 50%, 35.71%, 33.33%, and 12.59%, respectively. The incidence rate of bowel wall ischemia in simple adhesive intestinal obstruction was about 12.59%, and that in malignancy‐induced intestinal obstruction was about 6.56%. Univariate analysis revealed 5 factors with statistical significance, including bowel wall thickening, mesenteric edema, bowel wall pneumatosis, ascites, and fish tooth sign. Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that fish tooth sign, bowel wall thickening, and mesenteric edema were able to predict bowel wall ischemia, and the corresponding partial regression coefficients were 2.164, 1.129, and 1.173, odds ratios (ORs) were 8.707, 3.093, and 3.232, sensitivity was 0.356, 0.400, and 0.844, and specificity was 0.859, 0.835, and 0.529, respectively. Imaging signs of bowel wall thickening, mesenteric edema, and fish tooth sign are valuable in predicting bowel wall ischemia, among which bowel wall thickening and mesenteric edema have relatively high specificity and fish tooth sign has a relatively high sensitivity. Furthermore, a fish tooth sign has the most favorable predictive value for bowel wall ischemia in acute intestinal obstruction, followed by bowel wall thickening and mesenteric edema.