bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
General University Course Timetabling Mathematical Model to a Malaysian Public University Problem
Authors: Mohd Zaulir Zahidah , Abdul Aziz Nurul Liyana , Aizam Nur Aidya Hanum
Published: March 2022

University course timetabling is a well-known management problem amongst researchers, thus the rich body of literature. However, published articles are mainly on improved solution approaches leads to presentation on different constraints used and ignoring human preferences. This however, limits the model application to other universities. The research aims to bridge the gap by acknowledging these varieties of demands. In the process of generating our mathematical model, we have gone through meticulously researches that have been carried out in the past years to determine the demands of individuals involved directly with the timetable. The varieties of demands were clarified from a survey conducted. An improvised UCTP model was developed, which involves a superset of constraints that also includes the users’ preferences. However, we will extensively discuss on the list of requirements obtained from the survey and demonstrate the requirements that were found acceptable to be considered in a general mathematical model. To verify the compatibility of our mathematical model, we illustrate with real data from a university in Malaysia. The experimental result confirms the applicability of our mathematical model towards real problem. We expect that this model could be in favor of solving other university course timetabling problem with slight modifications.
Dynamical System Analysis of the Prey-predator Interactions involving Prey Refuge and Herd Behaviors in Preys
Authors: Abdul Manaf Zati Iwani , Mohd Mohd Hafiz
Published: March 2022

By employing a prey refuge mechanism, more preys can be protected from predation. Prey species are also better protected from predation when they congregate in herds. However, what if the prey refuge and herd behavior mechanisms were combined in a system? To investigate this phenomenon, we consider two different prey-predator systems with prey refuge capacity. The first system is a simple prey-predator with prey refuge, whereas the second system considers prey refuge and prey herd behavior mechanisms. Using these models, we explore how different prey refuge strategies affect species interactions in both systems. To accomplish this, we use theoretical techniques (e.g., computing steady states and performing the stability analysis) and numerical bifurcation analysis to demonstrate various dynamical behaviors of these two prey-predator systems. Once prey refuge is treated as a bifurcation parameter, we observe the occurrence of supercritical Hopf and transcritical bifurcations in both systems. Furthermore, we explore the dynamic effects of prey refuge and predator handling time on species population interactions: our findings reveal that using both prey refuge and herd behavior as escape strategies; it is possible to dilute the predation pressure and ensure species biodiversity.
Bibliometric Analysis of Publications of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia
Authors: Md Yusop Abdul Hakim , Chew Teong Han , Md Sairan Fadzlin , Nur Hadi
Published: March 2022

This study analyses the scholarly publications of Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) in conjunction with 50 years of UTM establishment. A bibliometric analysis is performed to analyse the UTM’s publication and research trends over the 50 years, especially during the post-research university (RU) period, publications impacts, subject area expertise and publications performance in comparison to other RU. Based on the analysis, engineering and computer science are the most prominent fields among the research fields in UTM in terms of a number of publications and citations thus far. Among the top 10 fields in UTM, materials science, chemical engineering, energy and chemistry areas are seen to have a high potential to further excel in citation provided that the publication numbers of these fields are further increased. The publications output for some UTM fields can still be considered low despite having a reasonable number of authors and talents. UTM is the top university in the number of publications from 2015 till 2020 in four fields, namely engineering, computer science, materials science, and chemical engineering, compared to other RU.
Design Strategies of Flame-Retardant Additives for Lithium Ion Electrolyte
Authors: Gao Zhenhai , Rao Shun , Zhang Tianyao , Li Weifeng , Yang Xiao , Chen Yupeng , Zheng Yadan , Ding Yuhang , Dong Tingyue , Li Songyu
Published: March 2022

As the energy density of lithium-ion batteries continues to increase, battery safety issues characterized by thermal runaway have become increasingly severe. Battery safety issues have severely restricted the large-scale application of power batteries. Among them, the flammable liquid organic electrolyte is one of the main reasons for the safety hazards of battery thermal runaway. This article reviews the flame-retardant mechanism and research progress of phosphorus-based flame-retardant additives, nitrogen-based flame-retardant additives, and halogen-based flame-retardant additives. The design strategies of conventional flame-retardant additives and intelligent flame-retardant additives in lithium-ion batteries are summarized. Finally, a development direction and research prospects of flame-retardant additives in lithium-ion battery electrolytes are prospected.
A Robust Pseudo-Three-Dimensional Computational Fluid Dynamic Approach for Industrial Applications
Authors: Xu Sichang , Ryzer Eugene , Rankin Gary W.
Published: March 2022

Two-dimensional instead of three-dimensional computational fluid dynamic solutions of flow problems are quite often used in industry to facilitate short design turn-around times with varying degrees of success. A simple and robust approach for improving the accuracy of two-dimensional computational fluid dynamics solutions for problems involving internal flow passages in industrial applications is presented. The technique utilizes an approximation to the shearing stresses that act in the fully three-dimensional case but are ignored in the traditional two-dimensional approximation. Although the technique does not fully account for all the three-dimensional effects in such flows, it gives a reasonable estimate of the operation of devices with internal flows, even those involving transients. The usefulness and accuracy of the method are demonstrated through the application of the method to predict the performance of a supersonic fluidic oscillator for industrial design purposes. This brief provides industrial designers with a simple and robust tool for improving the accuracy of their computational fluid dynamic simulations.
Three-Dimensional Effects on Slamming Loads on a Free-Falling Bow-Flare Cylinder Into Calm Water
Authors: Wang Shan , Soares C. Guedes
Published: March 2022

Three-dimensional effects on slamming load predictions of a ship section are investigated numerically using the unsteady incompressible Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equations and volume of fluid (VOF) method, which are implemented in interDyMFoam solver in open-source library OpenFOAM. A convergence and uncertainty study is performed considering different resolutions and constant Courant (CFL) number following updated ITTC guidelines. The numerical solutions are validated through comparisons of slamming loads and motions between the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and the available experimental values. The slamming force and slamming pressures on a 2D ship section and the 3D model are compared and discussed. Three-dimensional effects on the sectional force and the pressures are quantified both in transverse and longitudinal directions of the body considering various entry velocities. Comparing with 2D simulations, the 3D models provide lower predictions on slamming loads. The results show that the three-dimensional effects on the maximum slamming force coefficient are about 25%, while the effects on pressures differ from locations and entry velocities, ranging from 11% to 29%.
Using a Portable Pressure-Sensing Walkway to Detect Age-Related Alternations in Foot Integrated Pressure During Multiple Obstacle Negotiation
Authors: Lin Tangdi , Siu Ka-Chun , Volkman Kathleen , Chien Jung Hung
Published: March 2022

Multiple obstacle avoidance induces a higher potential of falls among older adults. This study attempted to add other important measurements by investigating the pressure-related gait parameters when stepping over multiple obstacles on a portable pressure-sensing walkway. Twenty-six young and 26 older participants were recruited in this study. A portable pressure-sensing Zeno walkway and cyclogram intersection point analysis method was introduced to collect both spatial–temporal and pressure-related gait parameters. Older adults significantly reduced foot integrated pressure of the leading leg when stepping over the second obstacle compared with young adults (p = .0078). A significantly larger cyclogram intersection point shift in medial–lateral direction was found in older adults than in young adults (p = .024) when stepping over the second obstacle, especially in the lateral direction. The results of this study showed that a pressure-sensing walking combined with cyclogram intersection point method could detect foot pressure distribution differences caused by aging.
The inhibitory coreceptor CD22 restores B cell signaling by developmentally regulating

Cd45
−/−

immunodeficient B cells
Authors: Akatsu Chizuru , Alborzian Deh Sheikh Amin , Matsubara Naoko , Takematsu Hiromu , Schweizer Astrid , Abdu-Allah Hajjaj H. M. , Tedder Thomas F. , Nitschke Lars , Ishida Hideharu , Tsubata Takeshi
Published: March 2022

The protein tyrosine phosphatase CD45 plays a crucial role in B cell antigen receptor (BCR) signaling by activating Src family kinases.

Cd45
−/−

mice show altered B cell development and a phenotype likely due to reduced steady-state signaling; however,

Cd45
−/−

B cells show relatively normal BCR ligation–induced signaling. In our investigation of how BCR signaling was restored in

Cd45
−/−

cells, we found that the coreceptor CD22 switched from an inhibitory to a stimulatory function in these cells. We disrupted the ability of CD22 to interact with its ligands in

Cd45
−/−

B cells by generating

Cd45
−/−
St6galI
−/−

mice, which cannot synthesize the glycan ligand of CD22, or by treating

Cd45
−/−

B cells in vitro with the sialoside GSC718, which inhibits ligand binding to CD22. BCR ligation–induced signaling was reduced by ST6GalI deficiency, but not by GSC718 treatment, suggesting that CD22 restored BCR ligation–induced signaling in

Cd45
−/−

mature B cells by altering cellular phenotypes during development. CD22 was required for the increase in the surface amount of IgM-BCR on

Cd45
−/−

B cells, which augmented signaling. Because B cell survival depends on steady-state BCR signaling, IgM-BCR abundance was likely increased by the selective survival of IgM-BCR
hi

Cd45
−/−

B cells because of CD22-mediated signaling under conditions of substantially reduced steady-state signaling. Because the amount of surface IgM-BCR is increased on B cells from patients with other BCR signaling deficiencies, including X-linked agammaglobulinemia, our findings suggest that CD22 may contribute to the partial restoration of B cell function in these patients.
Biosensor-Coupled
In Vivo
Mutagenesis and Omics Analysis Reveals Reduced Lysine and Arginine Synthesis To Improve Malonyl-Coenzyme A Flux in
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Qiu Chenxi , Huang Mingtao , Hou Yishan , Tao Huilin , Zhao Jianzhi , Shen Yu , Bao Xiaoming , Qi Qingsheng , Hou Jin
Published: March 2022

Malonyl-CoA is a key precursor for the production a variety of value-added chemicals. Although rational engineering has been performed to improve the synthesis of malonyl-CoA in
S. cerevisiae
, due to the complexity of the metabolism there is a need for evolving strains and analyzing new mechanism to improve malonyl-CoA flux.
Microbial Consortiums of Putative Degraders of Low-Density Polyethylene-Associated Compounds in the Ocean
Authors: Pinto Maria , Zhao Zihao , Klun Katja , Libowitzky Eugen , Herndl Gerhard J.
Published: March 2022

Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) is one of the most used plastics worldwide, and a large portion of it ends up in the ocean. Very little is known about its fate in the ocean and whether it can be biodegraded by microorganisms.
Multicenter Genomic Analysis of Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae from Bacteremia in China
Authors: Cienfuegos-Gallet Astrid V. , Zhou Ying , Ai Wenxiu , Kreiswirth Barry N. , Yu Fangyou , Chen Liang
Published: March 2022

K. pneumoniae
is one of the most frequent Gram-negative bacilli isolated from bloodstream infections worldwide and recent studies have shown an increased rate of carbapenem resistance in China. Among carbapenem-resistant
K. pneumoniae
(CRKP) diverse clones have been reported, especially the high-risk clone ST11, which also exhibited a multidrug resistant phenotype.
Timing of mass redeposition of sponge spicules from the peri-Tethyan shelf into the deep Carpathian Basin and their relation to mid-Cretaceous global sea level changes
Authors: Bąk Marta , Bąk Krzysztof , Górny Zbigniew
Published: March 2022

Extensive Albian–Cenomanian sponge growth on the European peri-Tethyan shelves depended on sea level fluctuations that caused significant shoreline shifts and forced facies migration across shelves and partial redeposition of sponge spicules by gravitational currents into deep basins. Such phenomena played important roles in accumulation in the Carpathian Basins, a part of the western Tethys Ocean along the southern slopes of the European platform. Spiculitic deposits formed thick bodies in the mid-Cretaceous flysch of the Silesian nappe. This study reports new, detailed biostratigraphic and chemostratigraphic (δ13Corg) data from a reference section in the Outer Carpathians that were used to date this paleoceanographic phenomenon. A high-resolution analysis of a continuous, 46.5-m-long sedimentary deep-water succession exposed in the Silesian nappe reveals that biogenic input of numerous sponge spicules occurred from latest Albian through middle Cenomanian time, controlled by third-order sea level oscillations. Chemostratigraphic data with biostratigraphic control mark carbon isotope excursions that are characteristic of the mid-Cretaceous (Albian–Cenomanian boundary interval containing oceanic anoxic event (OAE)1d, mid-Cenomanian event (MCE) Ia, MCE Ib, and MCE II) and allow precise determination of the beginning and termination of mass sponge spicule redeposition. The onset of redeposition corresponds to the top of OAE1d, which records a global regressive event (KAl8). The mass redeposition of biogenic material ended between MCE Ib and MCE II during the KCe3 eustatic event. The stratigraphic data indicate that mass redeposition of spiculitic deposits lasted ca. 4.5 Ma, with an average sedimentation rate of ~5 mm kyr–1. Precisely determining the duration of mass redeposition of spicule-bearing material into the Silesian Basin enables their correlation with deposits in epicontinental basins.
Kinematics and 40Ar/39Ar geochronology of the Lincang-Inthanon tectonic belt: Implication for Cenozoic tectonic extrusion of SE Asia
Authors: Wang Yang , Wang Yuejun , Zhang Peizhen , Zhang Jinjiang , Zhang Bo , Zhang Yuzhi , Zhou Renjie , Seagren Erin G. , Qian Xin , Li Zhangjun
Published: March 2022

The Lincang-Inthanon tectonic belt is a major tectonic boundary within the southeastern Tibetan Plateau and Indo-China Peninsula, which are typical examples of tectonic extrusion in SE Asia. The Lincang strain zone, Lancang-Gengma fault, and Inthanon metamorphic complex make up this nearly N–S-striking tectonic belt, which separates the Baoshan–Shan Thai and Simao-Indochina terranes. New petrographic, structural, and mica 40Ar/39Ar geochronological studies were conducted to reveal their deformation styles and constrain the timing of their tectonic evolution. W–E-directed compression related to the subduction of the Paleotethyan Ocean with subsequent continental collision and sinistral ductile shearing in the early Oligocene are recorded along the Lincang strain zone. The Lancang-Gengma fault zone switched from sinistral shearing to dextral motion in the late Cenozoic and shows a deformation history similar to that of the parallel Red River fault. The Inthanon metamorphic complex may have experienced crustal shortening in the early Cenozoic, followed by sinistral transtension in the early Miocene. The Lincang-Inthanon tectonic belt shows many lithological, tectonic evolutionary, and metamorphic similarities with the Gaoligong, Chongshan, and Ailaoshan–Red River shear zones. Therefore, the sinistral shearing along the Lincang-Inthanon tectonic belt and the Chongshan shear zone in the north, which may have initiated since the early Oligocene, played an important role in adjusting differential extrusion and rotation of the Baoshan–Shan Thai and Simao-Indochina terranes. Our results delineate the regional tectonic framework and provide insights into the characteristics and geodynamics of intracontinental deformation in the eastern India-Eurasia oblique convergence zone.
Extensive use of on-pack promotional claims on commercial baby foods in the UK
Authors: Garcia Ada Lizbeth , Menon Rebekah , Parrett Alison
Published: March 2022

Objective

To explore and categorise the nature of promotional claims on packaging of commercial baby foods (CBFs).

Setting

UK

Methodology

An online survey of CBFs (for infants up to 12+ months) in 7 UK supermarkets and Amazon in 2020. On-pack promotions were classified as marketing, composition, health, and nutrient claims using the WHO Nutrient Profile Model draft for infants and young children, and European Union regulation on health and nutrition claims.

Main outcome measure

Distribution and proportion of claim types, and association between product characteristics and claim types.

Results

A total of 6265 promotional claims were identified on 724 products. Marketing (99%, n=720), composition (97%, n=705) and nutrient claims (85%, n=616) were found on the majority of CBFs, compared with health claims (6%, n=41). The median (Q1, Q3) number of total claims per product was 9 (7, 10), marketing 5 (3, 6), composition 2 (1, 2), nutrient 2 (1, 2), and 0 (0, 0) health. Marketing claims were mainly texture (84%, n=609, eg, super smooth) and taste related (70%, n=511, eg, first tastes). The main composition claim was organic (63%, n=457) while nutrient claims were mainly around ‘no added’ or ‘less’ sugar (58%, n=422) and salt (57%, n=417). Baby led weaning claims (BLW) (eg, encourages self-feeding) were found on 72% of snacks, with a significantly higher (p<0.01) number of BLW claims on snacks (99%, n=209) compared with other product types.

Conclusion

Promotional claims on CBF packaging are extensively used and, for the most part, unregulated. CBFs are promoted using ‘healthy halo’ connotations that might confuse parents. Regulations on their use should be implemented to avoid inappropriate marketing.
Tolosa-Hunt syndrome presenting with features of a trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias and pituitary enlargement
Authors: Sim Nicholas Keyi , Liew Sze Yii , Warren Daniel J , Hassan Ahamad
Published: March 2022

Tolosa-Hunt syndrome is understood as a steroid-responsive, relapsing-remitting, unilateral headache disorder associated with ipsilateral cranial neuropathies, of a probable granulomatous aetiology. The diagnosis is made clinically from the history and examination, supported by appropriate imaging. Here the authors report a case of Tolosa-Hunt syndrome with a headache phenotype mimicking a trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias (hemicrania continua), and serial MRI studies showing a stable enlarged pituitary. Due to her initial lack of clinical signs, she was diagnosed with chronic migraine, revised to hemicrania continua based on indomethacin response, then revised back to chronic migraine. Her final diagnosis was achieved after she developed a left cavernous sinus syndrome 4 years into her disease course. This case shows that Tolosa-Hunt syndrome may present with a non-side-locked headache and delayed development of clinical signs. Clinicians should also maintain a high degree of suspicion when faced with incidental MRI findings.
Urinary schistosomiasis: a case of late presentation
Authors: Grech Marc , Busuttil Gerald , Gauci Carla Doreen , Milic Miljan
Published: March 2022

A man in his early 20s, originally from north-central Africa, presented with a high incidental serum creatinine level. A non-contrast CT scan was taken which was suggestive of urinary schistosomiasis. The diagnosis was confirmed on obtaining biopsies from the bladder. Due to bilateral hydronephrosis, an attempt at bilateral renal decompression was made. This failed to improve renal function. He eventually underwent a right nephrectomy. He is in end-stage renal failure, undergoing long-term dialysis, and has been placed on the waiting list for renal transplant.
Oligometastasis to the testes from oesophageal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Rupasinghe Sukitha Namal , Stephens Nathan
Published: March 2022

Upper gastrointestinal tumours can metastasise to many viscera including the female reproductive system (Krukenberg tumour). However, spread to the male genitalia is extremely rare. We report the case of a man in his 70s who underwent oesophagogastrectomy for oesophagogastric junctional (OGJ) cancer with a complete response to neoadjuvant treatment who presented 4 months after completing treatment with a solitary testicular metastases.
Rare early presentation of bilateral compressive optic neuropathy with complete vision loss from nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Kong Yongyao , Ng Gee Jin
Published: March 2022

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is very rarely associated with bilateral vision loss, and only in advanced disease. We report a case of bilateral severe compressive optic neuropathy as a first presentation from massive nasopharyngeal carcinoma with poor visual outcome despite corticosteroid, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Red flag symptoms and signs of mass lesions in the posterior nasal space should be investigated and treated promptly to prevent devastating visual and prognostic consequences.
Impact of the DREAMS Partnership on social support and general self-efficacy among adolescent girls and young women: causal analysis of population-based cohorts in Kenya and South Africa
Authors: Gourlay Annabelle , Floyd Sian , Magut Faith , Mulwa Sarah , Mthiyane Nondumiso , Wambiya Elvis , Otieno Moses , Kamire Vivienne , Osindo Jane , Chimbindi Natsayi , Ziraba Abdhalah , Kwaro Daniel , Shahmanesh Maryam , Birdthistle Isolde
Published: March 2022

Introduction

The Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-free, Mentored and Safe (DREAMS) Partnership aimed to influence psychosocial processes that promote empowerment among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW), and reduce HIV incidence. We estimated the impact of DREAMS on aspects of AGYW’s collective and individual agency (specifically, social support and self-efficacy), in three settings where DREAMS was implemented from 2016 until at least end 2018.

Methods

Research cohorts of ~1500 AGYW aged 13–22 were randomly selected from demographic platforms in Kenya (Nairobi; Gem) and South Africa (uMkhanyakude) and followed up from 2017 to 2019. Social support was based on questions about female networks and access to safe places to meet with peers; general self-efficacy was measured using a scale previously validated in other settings. We conducted multivariable logistic regression, and estimated the causal effect of invitation to DREAMS on each outcome in 2018 and 2019 by comparing counter-factual scenarios in which all, vs no, AGYW were DREAMS invitees.

Results

In Nairobi, Gem and uMkhanyakude, respectively, 74%, 57% and 53% were invited to DREAMS by 2018. Social support was higher among DREAMS invitees versus non-invitees (eg, adjusted OR 2.0 (95% CI 1.6 to 2.6), Gem, 2018). In 2018, DREAMS increased social support in all settings and age groups, for example, from 28% if none were DREAMS invitees to 43% if all were invitees (+15% (95% CI 10% to 20%)) in Gem. Effects were strongest in Kenya, but weakened in 2019, particularly among older AGYW. In uMkhanyakude, DREAMS invitees had greater self-efficacy compared with non-invitees in 2018 (+9% (95% CI 3% to 13%), 2018) but less so in 2019. In Kenyan settings, there was weak evidence for impact on self-efficacy among younger AGYW in Gem (+6% (95% CI 0% to 13%)) and older AGYW in Nairobi (+9% (95% CI −3% to +20%)) in 2019.

Conclusions

DREAMS impacted on social support and, less consistently, on self-efficacy. Weakening effects over time may reflect changes in access to safe spaces and social networks as AGYW age and change circumstances, and withdrawal of DREAMS from uMkhanyakude in 2018, highlighting the importance of programme sustainability and improving programming for older participants.
Primary care micro-teams: a protocol for an international systematic review to describe and examine the opportunities and challenges of implementation for patients and healthcare professionals
Authors: Coombs Charles Richard Harvey , Cohen Tanya , Duddy Claire , Mahtani Kamal Ram , Roberts Nia , Saini Aman , Foster Alexander Staddon , Park Sophie
Published: March 2022

Introduction

There has been a recent trend towards creating larger primary care practices with the assumption that interdisciplinary teams can deliver improved and more cost-effective services to patients with better accessibility. Micro-teams have been proposed to mitigate some of the potential challenges with practice expansion, including continuity of care. We aim to review the available literature to improve understanding of how micro-teams are described and the opportunities which primary care micro-teams can provide for practice staff and patients and limitations to their introduction and implementation. Our review asks: how is micro-team implementation described? What are the experiences of healthcare professionals and patients concerning micro-teams in primary care? What are the reported implications of micro-teams for patient care?

Methods and analysis

CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Embase, MEDLINE and Scopus will be searched for studies in English. Grey literature will be sourced from Google Scholar, government websites, CCG websites, general practice directives and strategies with advice from stakeholders. Included studies will give evidence regarding the implementation of micro-teams. Data will be synthesised using framework analysis. We will use iterative stakeholder and public and patient participation to embed the perspectives of those whom micro-teams could impact. Included studies will be quality assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. The quality assessment will not be used to exclude any evidence but rather to develop a narrative discussion evaluating included literature.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval will not be necessary for this systematic review as there will only be a secondary analysis of data already available in scientific databases and the grey literature. This protocol has been submitted for registration to be made available on a review database (PROSPERO). Findings will be disseminated widely through peer-reviewed publication and in various media, for example, conferences, congresses or symposia.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42021225367.
Predictors of mortality in acute ischemic stroke treated with endovascular thrombectomy despite successful reperfusion: subgroup analysis of a multicentre randomised clinical trial
Authors: Li Hao , Huang Jinbo , Ye Shisheng , Chen Hai , Yuan Li , Liao Geng , Du Weijie , Li Chaomao , Fang Ling , Liu Sheng , Yang Pengfei , Zhang Yongwei , Xing Pengfei , Zhang Xiaoxi , Ye Xiaofei , Peng Ya , Cao Jie , Zhang Liyong , Yang Zhi , Liu Jianmin
Published: March 2022

Objectives

We sought to determine the predictors of 90-day mortality despite successful reperfusion.

Design

Subgroup analysis of a multicentre randomised clinical trial (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03469206).

Setting

This study used data from the Direct Intra-arterial thrombectomy in order to Revascularize AIS patients with large vessel occlusion Efficiently in Chinese Tertiary hospitals: a Multicenter randomized clinical Trial (DIRECT-MT).

Participants

622 patients enrolled in DIRECT-MT.

Results

Overall successful reperfusion rate was 82.0% (510/622), and 18.5% (115/622) of patients died within 90 days. Univariate analysis identified increased risks of mortality for age ≥70 years, history of diabetes mellitus, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score on admission ≥17, NIHSS score after thrombectomy (24±6 hours) ≥11, Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography Score (ASPECTS) <9, glucose level at hospital arrival ≥130 mg/dL, location of internal carotid artery occlusion, embolisation into a new territory, symptomatic intracranial haemorrhage (ICH) and a decreased risk of mortality for smoking. In multivariable analysis, smoking (OR 0.38; 95% CI 0.17 to 0.83; p=0.015), NIHSS score on admission ≥17 (OR 3.14; 95% CI 1.77 to 5.55; p<0.001), glucose level at hospital arrival ≥130 mg/dL (OR 2.54; 95% CI 1.51 to 4.27; p<0.001), symptomatic ICH (OR 11.70; 95% CI 4.74 to 28.89; p<0.001) and NIHSS score after thrombectomy (24±6 hours) ≥11 (OR 12.04; 95% CI 5.09 to 28.46; p<0.001) were significant independent predictors of 90-day mortality.

Conclusions

Symptomatic ICH and high post-thrombectomy NIHSS score are strong predictor of 90-day mortality in acute ischaemic stroke treated with mechanical thrombectomy despite successful reperfusion, as well as high NIHSS score and high glucose level at hospital arrival. However, further studies need to be performed to confirm the association between smoking and mortality.
Risk factors associated with gall bladder cancer in high incidence areas in India: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Dutta Eliza K , Lewis Melissa Glenda , Albert Sandra
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Gall bladder cancer (GBC) is a lethal form of malignancy of the gastrointestinal tract with a unique geographical distribution. Cases are aggregated in the river basins of Ganga-Brahmaputra, in the north, east and north-east India, collectively termed as the ‘high-risk’ zone for GBC. Although some studies report high prevalence of typhoid infection linking with high burden of GBC in these regions, there is no systematic review of the factors associated with GBC in the high incidence areas. To address this gap, we are conducting a systematic review to identify and organise the factors associated with GBC in the high-risk zone of India.

Methods and analysis

A systematic review of all observational studies that report a quantitative relationship between at least one risk factor for GBC among adults (>18 years) in the high-risk zone in India will be conducted. The databases PubMed-MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, Web of Science, Scopus, OpenGrey and Google Scholar published in English and after 1990 will be searched. This review will follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses recommendations. The primary outcome is GBC. If data permit, meta-analysis will be performed. Two independent reviewers will independently screen the articles, extract the data and assess the methodological quality of the studies.

Ethics and dissemination

As this will be a systematic review without human participants’ involvement, there will be no requirement for ethics approval. Findings will be disseminated widely through peer-reviewed publication and media, for example, conferences and symposia.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42021256673.
Associating school doctor interventions with the benefit of the health check: an observational study
Authors: Nikander Kirsi , Kosola Silja , Vahlberg Tero , Kaila Minna , Hermanson Elina
Published: March 2022

Background

The benefits of school doctor interventions conducted at routine general health checks remain insufficiently studied. This study explored the associations of school doctor interventions with the doctor-evaluated and parent-evaluated benefits of routine health checks.

Methods

Between August 2017 and August 2018, we recruited a random sample of 1341 children from grades 1 and 5 from 21 Finnish elementary schools in 4 municipalities. Doctors routinely examined all children, who were accompanied by parents. The doctor-reported interventions were categorised into six groups: instructions and/or significant discussions, prescriptions, laboratory tests and/or medical imaging, scheduling of follow-up appointments, referrals to other professionals and referrals to specialised care. Doctors evaluated the benefit of the appointment using predetermined criteria, and parents provided their subjective perceptions of benefit. Interventions and reported benefit were compared using multilevel logistic regression.

Results

Doctors reported 52% and parents 87% of the appointments with interventions beneficial. All interventions were independently associated with doctor-evaluated benefit (ORs: 1.91–17.26). Receiving any intervention during the appointment was associated with parent-evaluated benefit (OR: 3.25, 95% CI 2.22 to 4.75). In analyses of different interventions, instructions and/or significant discussions (OR: 1.71, 95% CI 1.20 to 2.44), prescriptions (OR: 7.44, 95% CI 2.32 to 23.91) and laboratory tests and/or medical imaging (OR: 3.38, 95% CI 1.34 to 8.55) were associated with parent-evaluated benefit. Scheduled follow-up appointments and referrals to other professionals showed no significant association with parent-evaluated benefit.

Conclusions

Doctors and parents valued the appointments with interventions. Parents especially appreciated immediate help and testing from the doctor.

Trial registration number

NCT03178331.
Training on a virtual reality cricothyroidotomy simulator improves skills and transfers to a simulated procedure
Authors: Sankaranarayanan Ganesh , Odlozil Coleman A , Hasan Salman S , Shabbir Rehma , Qi Di , Turkseven Melih , De Suvranu , Funk Geoffrey , Weddle Rebecca J
Published: March 2022

Objective

The virtual airway skills trainer (VAST) is a virtual reality simulator for training in cricothyroidotomy (CCT). The goal of the study is to test the effectiveness of training and transfer of skills of the VAST-CCT.

Methods

Two groups, control (no training) and simulation (2 weeks of proficiency-based training), participated in this study. Subjects in the control condition did not receive any training on the task whereas those in the simulation received a proficiency-based training on the task during a period of 2 weeks. Two weeks post-training, both groups performed CCT on the TraumaMan to demonstrate the transfer of skills.

Results

A total of (n=20) subjects participated in the study. The simulation group performed better than the control group at both the post-test (p<0.001) and retention test (p<0.001) on the simulator. The cumulative sum analysis showed that all subjects in the simulation group reached proficiency with acceptable failure rate within the 2 weeks of training. On the transfer test, the simulation group performed better on skin cut (p<0.001), intubation (p<0.001) and total score (p<0.001) than the control group.

Conclusions

The VAST-CCT is effective in training and skills transfer for the CCT procedure.

Level of evidence

Not applicable. Simulator validation study.
cpn60 barcode sequences accurately identify newly defined genera within the Lactobacillaceae
Authors: Shukla Ishika , Hill Janet E.
Published: March 2022

The cpn60 barcode sequence has been established as an informative target for microbial species identification. Applications of cpn60 barcode sequencing are supported by the availability of “universal” PCR primers for amplification and a curated reference database of cpn60 sequences, cpnDB. A recent reclassification of lactobacilli involving the definition of 23 new genera provided an opportunity to update cpnDB and to determine if the cpn60 barcode could be used for accurate identification of species consistent with the new framework. Analysis of 275 cpn60 sequences representing 258/269 of the validly named species in Lactobacillus, Paralactobacillus, and the 23 newer genera showed that cpn60-based sequence relationships were generally consistent with whole-genome-based phylogeny. Aligning or mapping full-length barcode sequences or a 150 bp subsequence resulted in accurate and unambiguous species identification in almost all cases. Taken together, our results show that the combination of available reference sequence data, “universal” barcode amplification primers, and the inherent sequence diversity within the cpn60 barcode makes it a useful target for the detection and identification of lactobacilli, as defined by the latest taxonomic framework.
FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT AND INNOVATION: EVIDENCE FROM CHINESE FIRMS’ PATENT FILINGS
Authors: CHEN TING , CHEN XIANMENG , LUO WENJIE , XIANG XUNYONG
Published: March 2022

One main motivation of attracting inward foreign direct investment (FDI) for emerging economies is to obtain knowledge spillovers from developed countries and promote domestic innovation. The effects of FDI on innovation include both the direct effects from FDI on targeted domestic firms and indirect effects from foreign ownership on other foreign and domestic firms’ innovation. Applying a design with a two-stage randomization procedure that allows for both direct and indirect effects of FDI on innovation and allows these two effects to vary with the share of foreign firms in a well-specified cluster, we empirically investigate the effects of inward FDI on Chinese firms’ innovation using patent filings as a proxy for innovation. Our findings indicate that the potential innovation of firm varies with the share of foreign firms in the cluster. The approach used in this paper can help researchers and policymakers to better understand the benefits of inward FDI promotion programs, agglomeration and regional policy.
Characteristics study of thin-walled circular copper tubes for impact transformation
Authors: Mo Zonglai , Guo Zhuoyu , Song Shihao , Lin Jiahui , Li Jun
Published: March 2022

An axial bulking mode of the thin-walled tube is proposed and investigated experimentally, for the purpose of transforming a pulse impact into a controllable impact. Two types of thin-walled circular copper tubes with different structures are designed based on the basic circular tubes (BCTs), namely, the uniform grooved tube (UGT) and the circumferential opening grooved tube (CGT). Then, the impact characteristics of a series of copper tubes are investigated experimentally. Results show that BCTs are compressed into two-fold forms during impact, where compression deformation occurs at the thin-walled section and a fold is formed at each thin-walled section. BGTs, UGTs, and CGTs show different performances in terms of transforming impact, and impact output via CGT can be controlled by modifying its structural parameters.
Facial Makeup Detection Using Multi-Scale Local Binary Patterns and Convolutional Neural Network Fusion
Authors: Eskandari Maryam , Sharifi Omid
Published: March 2022

This study presents a novel facial makeup detection scheme using fusion of multi-scale Local Binary Patterns (ms-LBP) texture methods and convolutional neural network (CNN) deep learning extractor. Facial makeups affect the accuracy of face recognition systems due to appearance alteration of individuals. In order to fuse the facial features, the proposed scheme first considers concatenation of extracted global histogram of a whole image using three different LBP operators. The LBP scales are used to extract and then concatenate the local histogram of overlapping and nonoverlapping blocks of images. This way utilizes the advantages of microtexton information of local primitives besides the extracted global textures. Finally, the extracted features using CNN feature extractor are combined with global and local multi-scale textures. In general, CNN deep learning extractor learns high-level discriminative characteristics of images and therefore the proposed system improves the facial makeup detection rate by involving both microtexton and discriminative information of facial images. In addition, the proposed method attempts to select the optimized subset of facial features to increase the detection performance of system by applying Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) technique after feature level fusion. The paper uses Support Vector Machine (SVM) classifier for classifying the facial vectors into makeup or no-makeup classes. The proposed scheme is then evaluated using YMU, VMU and MIW facial makeup databases with consideration of light, medium and heavy makeups on several datasets. Experimental results analysis clarifies the effectiveness of proposed facial makeup detection framework of this study.
Analyst Recommendations: Evidence on Hedge Fund Activism and Managerial Ability
Authors: Yan Yan , Yang Xiaohui
Published: March 2022

This study investigates analysts’ attitudes toward the cooperation/conflict between hedge fund activists and target firm management by examining the impact of managerial ability on analyst recommendations around hedge fund activism. We find that analysts are more likely to reiterate recommendations and less likely to downgrade recommendations for target firms with high managerial skills following the arrival of hedge fund activists. This may be because analysts recognize advantages associated with target firm management’s superior ability that enables managers to avoid costly fights with hedge fund activists. We also show that stronger managerial ability is associated with the higher analyst forecast accuracy during hedge fund intervention. Our results are robust to a cross-sectional analysis of recommendation changes after activists’ takeover. Collectively, our evidence supports the positive impact of managerial ability on analysts’ opinions within the context of hedge fund activist campaigns and sheds light on the information gathering and processing ability of financial analysts.
Corporate Investment and Stock Return Momentum
Authors: Han Ki C. , Jalal Abu , Simonyan Karen
Published: March 2022

We investigate the link between corporate investment and the momentum effect in stock returns. We argue that the momentum effect in a firm’s stock returns tends to be generated as a result of a series of information exchanges between stock market investors and firm insiders regarding the firm’s investment opportunities. Our theoretical setup predicts that past winners (losers) are likely to increase (decrease) their net investment, and the more they invest (disinvest) the more likely they are to realize positive (negative) returns in subsequent periods. Our empirical tests using a large sample of firms in 1984–2017 provide support for our hypotheses. We further design a momentum trading strategy, which buys past winners with positive predicted changes in net investment and sells past losers with negative predicted changes in net investment, and demonstrate that this trading strategy generates superior returns compared to a simple momentum trading strategy.
Damage Identification of Frame Structure Based on Approximate Metropolis–Hastings Algorithm and Probability Density Evolution Method
Authors: Yang Y. , Ling Y. , Tan X. K. , Wang S. , Wang R. Q.
Published: March 2022

This paper proposes a new method to identify local damages in frame structures based on approximate Metropolis–Hastings (AMH) algorithm and statistical moment. By analyzing the sensitivity of different statistical moment-based damage indices, the fusion index of fourth-order displacement moment and eighth-order acceleration moment is selected. Then the local damages in frame structures are primarily evaluated by AMH algorithm, where Gibbs sampling is adopted. Finally, the uncertainty of identified local damages is analyzed by using probability density evolution method (PDEM). Numerical simulations have been conducted to compare the proposed method with other similar damage detection methods, showing that the proposed method is more time-saving due to the involvement of Gibbs sampling and more accurate in assessing the damage severity. Experimental study of a 12-story benchmark frame testing has also been carried out, further validating the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Vibration Suppression Performance of FRP Spherical-Cylindrical Shells with Porous Graphene Platelet Coating in a Thermal Environment
Authors: Zu Xudong , Gao Zhijiang , Zhao Jing , Wang Qingshan , Li Hui
Published: March 2022

In this study, the vibration suppression effect of a fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) spherical–cylindrical shell coated with the porous graphene platelet (PGP) in a thermal environment is investigated. The dynamic equilibrium equation is derived by combining the first-order shear deformation theory and the Rayleigh–Ritz approach, together with the virtual spring technology and the multi-segment partition technique. After the free and forced vibration responses of this FRP combined shell with PGP coating are solved. The model is validated by the convergence analysis and comparison of the present results and literature or finite element results for different shell structures with and without coating under various boundary conditions. Using the present model, the parametric study is conducted to explore the effects of porosity distribution type, dispersion pattern of volume fraction porosity, nanofiller weight fraction, and thickness ratio of PGP coating on the transient response. This study provides a useful model and some suggestions for better improving the vibration suppression capability of coated shell structures in a thermal environment.
Fractal Sobolev systems of functions associated with orthonormal systems of functions
Authors: Islam Md. N. , Kaish I. , Akhtar Md. N. , Navascués M. A.
Published: March 2022

This paper introduces the [Formula: see text]-fractal Sobolev system of functions corresponding to Sobolev orthonormal system of functions. An approximation-related result similar to Weierstrass theorem is derived. It is shown that the set of [Formula: see text]-fractal versions of Sobolev sums is dense and complete in the weighted Sobolev space [Formula: see text]. A Schauder basis and a Riesz basis of fractal type for the space [Formula: see text] are found. The Fourier–Sobolev expansion of an [Formula: see text]-fractal function [Formula: see text] corresponding to a certain set of interpolation points is presented. Moreover, some results on convergence of Fourier–Sobolev expansion of [Formula: see text] with respect to uniform norm and Sobolev norm are established.
Factorial Design-Based Nanocarrier Mediated Formulation of Efavirenz and Its Characterization
Authors: Chawla Ruchi , Karri Venkatanaidu , Rani Varsha , Mishra Mohini , Kumar Krishan
Published: March 2022

Efavirenz (EFV) suffers from poor aqueous solubility which results in low bioavailability of the drug. Nanocarrier-based drug delivery systems offer a suitable alternative for improving the physico-chemical properties of the drug and hence its efficacy. Nanosuspension (NS) of EFV was formulated by solvent-anti solvent precipitation method using PVP K-30 as stabilizer and sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) as the wetting agent. Multi-level factorial design was applied to select the optimal formulation which was further characterized. The optimal batch exhibited mean particle size of 305[Formula: see text]nm and polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.345. Solid-state characterization studies of the NS conducted using scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray powder diffraction, and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) revealed compatibility between the drug and the excipients and modest alteration in the crystallinity of the drug. There was progressive increase in the solubility of the drug when incorporated in NS from 17.39[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g/ml to 256[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g/ml. Further, drug release studies showed significantly better and controlled drug release pattern in comparison to the free drug due to the presence of nanosized particles in the formulation.