bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of gearshift processes in an automatic transmission at low vehicle speeds
Authors: Korendyasev George , Salamandra Konstantin , Tyves Leonid
Published: November 2019

The increase in the number of speeds in automatic transmissions of vehicles leads to a convergence of gear speeds between adjacent gears. At low vehicle speeds, periodic changes in external driving conditions (for example, hilly or winding sections of roads) can lead to loop shifting between adjacent gears. To simulate this process, a dynamic transmission model is proposed, which can be used in the development of shift control systems and for calibration of the engine and automatic transmission at various operating modes and vehicle conditions.
Sound radiation of simply supported rectangular plate using finite element method
Authors: Kulshreshtha Akshaj , Yadav Shivam , Singh Baij Nath , Ranjan Vinayak
Published: November 2019

In this paper sound radiation of simply supported rectangular plate has been reported. The novelty in this research paper is a new method is prescribed for sound radiation calculation. The phenomenon of uncoupled structural acoustics have been followed such that structure is the critical part in structural vibration using modal analysis and harmonic response calculation for frequency range of interest 0 to 200 Hz, but in harmonic acoustic analysis the structure does not takes part in physics point of view but is used for only for transferring the normal velocity from wetted surface of the structure to the interface acoustic medium i.e. air. Sound Radiation parameters like Sound Pressure Level, Sound Power Level and Sound Radiation efficiency has been reported. Upon comparing the results with that from I. Zaman’s literature, it is found that the results are quite varying due to the fact the speed of sound in air as taken in literature is unjustified. So true simulation using correct data has been carried out in this paper and sound radiation results has been reported for frequency range of interest 0 to 200 Hz. It is found that the maximum sound pressure level is 72 dB and maximum sound power level is 78 dB which is suitable for noiseless environment.
Modelling and simulation on behaviours of mild steel
Authors: Kumar Ravi , Singh N. K.
Published: November 2019

The objective of the paper is to simulate the behaviours of mild steel at different strain rates (1-1500s-1) under tension and compression by using finite element analysis code in ANSYS. Numerical simulation are done using Cowper-Symonds (C-S) and Johnson-Cook (J-C) material models to represent the flow stresses of mild steel. The simulated results have good agreement with the predicted results of the above material models.
Numerical simulation of vortex induced vibrations on a circular cylinder at different Reynold’s number
Authors: Yadav Shivam , Kulshreshtha Akshaj , Singh Baij Nath
Published: November 2019

This research investigates the effect of vortex induced vibrations on flow past a circular cylinder for two-dimensional unsteady incompressible flow at different Reynold’s number. The pressure bases steady solver is used for computation along with standard k-ε turbulence model. The change in the lift and drag coefficient with respect to increase in Reynolds number is studied and contours of vorticity are plotted. The pressure distribution on the fixed cylinder for different Reynolds number is also presented. It is found that drag coefficient reduces with the increasing Re and lift coefficient increases up to Reynold’s number 104. Moreover, the pressure difference on the fixed cylinder increases with the increasing Reynold’s number.
Assessment of foot trajectories and ground reaction force in a trans-femoral amputee with Jaipur Knee and 3R20 knee joints
Authors: Agarwal Shubham , Mishra Pawan , Ranjan Vinayak , Souguny Sabyasachi
Published: November 2019

In developing countries like India, unilateral transfemoral amputees encounter with the challenge to select and evaluate the knee joint performance. This study aims to evaluate the response of knee joint on vertical ground reaction forces (vGRFs), walking speed, range of motion (ROM) of joints like hip, knee and ankle joints in first two weeks and enhanced response. Movements of different joints were recorded through VICON motion analysis system. Vertical ground reaction forces were captured through AMTI strain gauzed force plate. It has been observed that in two weeks normalized speed increases 0.41 to 0.49 with 3R20. Range of motion of joints was observed with interesting fact that in general with 3R20, joints angle their respective ROM were more than Jaipur Knee but in same cases in second half of gait cycle Jaipur Knee responded better than 3R20 knee joint.
Simulation analysis and experimental verification on body-in-white static stiffness of a certain commercial vehicle
Authors: Fang Ding , Kefei Wang
Published: November 2019

The body-in-white simulation model of a certain commercial vehicle was established to make a numerical analysis of the vehicle body static stiffness in this research. Meanwhile, the effectiveness of the simulation model was verified using the physical test of body-in-white static stiffness. Research results showed that the error of body-in-white static stiffness test and simulation analysis was within the range of ±10 %, which could reduce the test cost and guarantee the test precision. The research findings do provide a better application value and references for vehicle engineering developers.
Assessing energy performance and critical issues of a large wastewater treatment plant through full-scale data benchmarking
Authors: di Cicco Maria Rosa , Spagnuolo Antonio , Masiello Antonio , Vetromile Carmela , Nappa Mariano , Corbo Gaetano , Lubritto Carmine
Published: November 2019

The wastewater sector accounts for 25% of the global energy demand in the water sector. Since this consumption is expected to increase in the forthcoming years, energy optimization strategies are needed. A truly effective planning of energy improvement measures requires a detailed knowledge of a system, which can only be achieved through energy audit and real-time monitoring. In order to improve the identification of critical issues related to the use of energy resources within a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP), the paper shows the results of a monitoring campaign performed on a large WWTP in southern Italy. Data obtained for the audit cover a 4-year timeframe (2014–2017). Energy–environmental performance has been evaluated through the benchmarking of: system variables, specific consumptions, and operational indicators. Moreover, by using a real-time data measurement and acquisition system it has been possible to evaluate the real performance of the most energy-intensive apparatus of the plant (a turbo-blower), over a period of 8 months. The main results indicate that (a) the plant is mainly affected by a massive capture of infiltrations, working in conditions close to the maximum hydraulic capacity, (b) real-time energy measurements are necessary to accurately characterize plant consumptions and adequately assess their critical aspects.
The Problem of the Best Constitution in Aristotle's "Politics"
Authors: Danilova Valeriia Iurevna
Published: November 2019

In the paper the proper constitutions of Aristotle's "Politics" are compared. The author concludes that Aristotle preferred aristocracy and polity which are much alike. Being a realist Aristotle knew that aristocracy and polity were rear in practice and not suitable for all the nations.
Modern Art in the Context of Mass Culture
Authors: Karateeva Alexandra Gennadievna , Adametskaya Tatyana Nikolaevna
Published: November 2019

The primary purpose of this article is to analyze the state of contemporary art in the context of mass culture: the phenomena of mass and elite art are characterized, the relationships between and mutual influences of various factors of mass art are determined, and the significance of the commercial aspect in the development of contemporary art is revealed.
Models of Space in Fiction and Folklore
Authors: Sokolova Galina Aleksandrovna
Published: November 2019

The article deals with one of the philosophical concepts of “space”, provides definitions of this concept, gives a brief overview of the word’s origin, and lists the main characteristics of space. Particular attention is paid to the issue of literary space. Several models of space structure are demonstrated, and some features of the Russian and the German linguistic worldviews are described.
Law of Regulation in the Field of Construction
Authors: Dutikov Maksim Pavlovich
Published: November 2019

The article deals with the system of legal acts regulating construction activities in the Russian Federation. The system of civil contracts used in the construction industry is determined.
Association between genetic determinants of clopidogel metabolism and clinical cardiovascular risk indicators in Buryat patients
Authors: Zelenskaya E. , Nikolaev K. , Donirova O. , Altayev V. , Protasov K. , Voronina E. , Lifshits G.
Published: November 2019

Background. In some patients, the metabolism of clopidogrel is altered because of the presence of polymorphic variants rs4244285 (* 2), rs4986893 (* 3) and rs12248560 (* 17) in the CYP2C19 gene. There is also evidence of decreased efficacy of clopidogrel in individuals with the T/T genotype in the variant rs2305948 of the VEGFR-2 gene. Nevertheless, this medication is used widely in Russia due to the availability of generic anticoagulants.Aim. To assess the prevalence of the following polymorphic variants of CYP2C19: rs4244285 (* 2), rs4986893 (* 3) and rs12248560 (* 17); assess the prevalence of the rs2305948 variant of VEGFR-2, and determine cardiovascular risk factors in patients of Buryat nationality.Methods. The study included 113 patients of Buryat nationality who underwent coronary stent placement due to acute coronary syndrome. Patients were stratified by the presence of the following alleles: CYP2C19 * 2, *3, *17 and VEGFR-2 rs2305948. The following laboratory parameters were measured for all patients: blood glucose, lipid spectrum, creatinine, and glomerular filtration rate. The severity of coronary atherosclerosis was evaluated.Results. The frequencies of the alleles and halotypes (CYP2C19 * 2, * 3 and *17) were determined. An association between the carriage of the C/C genotype in rs2305948 and a <60 ml/min/1.73 m2 decrease in glomerular filtration rate (χ2 = 4.185, p = 0.032) were found. Additionally, the C/C genotype in rs2305948 was associated with higher blood pressure (χ2 = 12.593, p = 0.001). For men, we identified a positive correlation between the rs2305948 C/C allele and the number of significant coronary stenoses (R = 0.227, p < 0.05).Conclusion. Among Buryat patients with acute coronary syndrome and percutaneous coronary intervention, the CYP2C19*2,*3 polymorphic variants were associated with a 46.0% decrease in the metabolic rate for clopidogrel. Furthermore, we identified several associations between the C/C genotype in the rs2305948 variant of VEGFR-2 with a number of cardiovascular risk factors.
Received 2 September 2019. Revised 24 October 2019. Accepted 30 October 2019.
Funding: The study did not have sponsorship.
Conflict of interest: Authors declare no conflict of interest.
Author contributionsConception and study design: V.D. Altayev, K.V. Protasov, G.I. LifshitsData collection and analysis: Е.М. Zelenskaya, K.Y. Nikolaev, O.S. Donirova, V.D. Altayev, K.V. Protasov, E.N. Voronina, G.I. LifshitsDrafting the article: Е.М. ZelenskayaCritical revision of the article: Е.М. ZelenskayaFinal approval of the version to be published: Е.М. Zelenskaya, K.Y. Nikolaev, O.S. Donirova, V.D. Altayev, K.V. Protasov, E.N. Voronina, G.I. Lifshits
Possibilities of single-photon emission computed tomography for the assessment of cardiac global and regional sympathetic activity in patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Minin S. , Nikitin N. , Pokushalov E. , Romanov A.
Published: November 2019

Aim. To evaluate global and regional sympathetic activity in patients with atrial fibrillation using 123I-metaiodbenzylguanidine (123I-MIBG) scintigraphy before and after catheter ablation.
Methods. A total of 45 patients with paroxysmal and persistent atrial fibrillation (mean age, 55 ± 10 years; 44% women) followed up till catheter ablation were included in the study. All study participants underwent 123I-MIBG scintigraphy within 1–2 days before and 5–7 days after catheter ablation. The global myocardial sympathetic activity was estimated by calculating the ratio of 123I-MIBG uptake in the heart and mediastinum in the early and delayed phases (H/Me and H/Md), as well as the 123I-MIBG wash out rate in 4 h (WR). Regional sympathetic activity was estimated by semiquantitative analysis of the 123I-MIBG uptake in the myocardium of the left ventricle.
Results. Baseline 123I-MIBG scintigraphy showed the difference between paroxysmal and persistent atrial fibrillation patients in WR only (19.2 ± 6.4 and 23.9 ± 7.2, respectively; p = 0.03). A statistically significant decrease of H/Md in average of 0.1 (95% confidence interval, 0.02–0.2; p = 0.02) was found in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, and a decrease of WR in average of 3.7% (95% confidence interval, −7% to −0.4%; p = 0.03) after catheter ablation. No statistically significant changes of H/Md and WR were found in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation after catheter ablation. The analysis of regional 123I-MIBG uptake in the left ventricular myocardium did not show any statistically significant changes in the regional sympathetic activity after catheter ablation compared with that at baseline.
Conclusion. The differences in WR only were found between patients with paroxysmal and persistent atrial fibrillation. Significant changes in myocardial sympathetic activity after catheter ablation were found only in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, a finding that may be associated with a large number of active sympathetic nerve endings in the myocardium compared with patients with persistent atrial fibrillation.
 
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02914860
 
Received 23 April 2019. Accepted 26 May 2019.
 
Conflict of interest: Authors declare no conflict of interest.
 
Funding: The study is a part of a research project supported of a grant of the Russian Science Foundation No. 17-75-20118.
Developing a High-performance Liquid Chromatography Method for Simultaneous Determination of Loratadine and its Metabolite Desloratadine in Human Plasma
Authors: Sebaiy Mahmoud M. , Ziedan Noha I.
Published: November 2019

Background:

Allergic diseases are considered as the major burden on public health with increased prevalence
globally. Histamine H1-receptor antagonists are the foremost commonly used drugs in the treatment of allergic
disorders. The target drug in this study, loratadine, belongs to this class of drugs and its biometabolite desloratadine
which is also a non-sedating H1 receptor antagonist with anti-histaminic activity being 2.5 to 4 times greater than
loratadine. This study aimed to develop and validate a novel isocratic Reversed-phase High-Performance Liquid
Chromatography (RP-HPLC) method for rapid and simultaneous separation and determination of loratadine and its
metabolite, desloratadine in human plasma.

Methods:

The drug extraction method from plasma was based on protein precipitation technique. The separation was
carried out on a Thermo Scientific BDS Hypersil C18 column (5μm, 250 x 4.60 mm) in a mobile phase of MeOH:
0.025M KH2PO4 adjusted to pH 3.50 using orthophosphoric acid (85: 15, v/v) at an ambient temperature. The flow
rate was maintained at 1 mL/min and maximum absorption was measured using the PDA detector at 248 nm.

Results:

The retention times of loratadine and desloratadine in plasma samples were recorded to be 4.10 and 5.08
minutes, respectively, indicating a short analysis time. Limits of detection were found to be 1.80 and 1.97 ng/mL for
loratadine and desloratadine, respectively, showing a high degree of sensitivity of the method. The method was then
validated according to FDA guidelines for the determination of the two analytes in human plasma.

Conclusion:

The results obtained indicate that the proposed method is rapid, sensitive in the nanogram range, accurate,
selective, robust and reproducible compared to other reported methods.
Why considering “health literacy” level is important for Family Physicians?
Authors: KENDİR Candan , VEGA İsabella Vanorio , KARTAL Mehtap
Published: November 2019

Family physicians are challenged with complicated cases every day, on some occasions; these circumstances get more difficult as a result of lack of compliance or poor communication between the patients and health care providers. Today, it is know that health literacy level of the individuals affect how patients interact with their care provider and their compliance to the treatment.Low health literacy levels are not exclusive to a particular region on the globe; reports show that 30% of the European has inadequate literacy level, and 64.6% in Turkey have low or problematic health literacy. Family physicians have a crucial role in identifying patients with low health literacy level and improve it to adequate level. Even though the limited time, work overload are some possible barriers for family physicians, a number of easy-to-use methods are developed to overcome some of these problems in primary care. Red flags have been identified to help family physicians to quickly identify the patients with low health literacy level. After that, in order to provide better communication, following strategies can be used are use of plain language, teach-back, ask me three questions, chunk and check, visual aids & written materials. Increasing health literacy can improve the health and well-being of the population and can also decrease the necessary time with patients to solve problems and prevent unnecessary repetitive attendance to primary health care services.

Aile hekimleri her gün karmaşık olgular ile karşılaşmakta olup, bazı durumlarda, hasta uyumsuzluğu veya hasta-hekim iletişim yetersizliği nedeniyle bu durum daha da zorlaşmaktadır. Bugün, sağlık okuryazarlığının hastaların hekimleri ile iletişimlerini ve tedaviye uyumlarını nasıl etkilediği bilinmektedir. Düşük sağlıkokuryazarlığı herhangi bir bölgeyle sınırlı olmamakla birlikte, raporlar Avrupa halkının %30’unun yetersiz seviyeye sahip olduğunu, Türk halkının da %64,6’sının düşük veya sınırlı sağlık okuryazarlığı düzeyine sahip olduğunu göstermektedir.
Aile hekimler sağlık okuryazarlık düzeyi düşük hastaları belirlemede ve düşük düzeyleri yeterli sağlık okuryazarlık seviyesine taşımada önemli bir role sahiptir. Kısıtlı zaman ve yoğun iş yükü aile hekimleri için olası engeller olsa da bazı kullanımı kolay teknikler bu sorunların üstesinden gelmek üzere birinci basamak için geliştirilmiştir. Kırmızı bayrak işaretleri hekimlerin sağlık okuryazarlığı düşük hastaları hızlıca belirlemeleri için tanımlanmıştır. Bunun ardından, daha sağlıklı bir iletişim için, yalın dil kullanımı, öğrenileni geri anlatma metodu, bana üç soru sor yöntemi, bilgiyi ver ve kontrol et metodu ve görsel ve yazılı materyal kullanımı gibi stratejiler uygulanabilir. Sağlık okuryazarlığı toplumun sağlık ve iyilik halini geliştirdiği gibi, hastanın problemini çözmekiçin gereken süreyi kısaltıp, gereksiz tekrarlayan birinci basamak başvurularını da önleyebilir.
Key Considerations For Integrating Sacubitril/Valsartan Into Chronic Heart Failure Management
Authors: Lillyblad Matthew P.
Published: November 2019

Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction remains a prevalent clinical syndrome associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Despite significant advances in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction pharmacotherapy, 5-year mortality remains 50%. Sacubitril/valsartan is a first-in-class angiotensin-receptor-neprilysin inhibitor, Food and Drug Administration–approved to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization for heart failure in patients with chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Sacubitril/valsartan is recognized as a significant therapeutic advancement and endorsed by national guidelines, yet adoption into clinical practice has lagged across the United States. Recommendations for use differ greatly between the Prospective Comparison of Angiotensin-Receptor-Neprilysin Inhibitor with Angiotensin-Converting-Enzyme Inhibitor to Determine Impact on Global Mortality and Morbidity in Heart Failure clinical trial, international guidelines, and the Food and Drug Administration-approved labeling, which can lead to uncertainty with prescribing. It is essential to establish an evidence-based, pragmatic approach to patient selection and management of sacubitril-valsartan facilitate integration into clinical practice. This review summarizes the pharmacology of sacubitril/valsartan, its known benefits and risks, and important considerations for incorporating sacubitril/valsartan into chronic heart failure management.
A Chatbot Versus Physicians to Provide Information for Patients With Breast Cancer: Blind, Randomized Controlled Noninferiority Trial
Authors: Bibault Jean-Emmanuel , Chaix Benjamin , Guillemassé Arthur , Cousin Sophie , Escande Alexandre , Perrin Morgane , Pienkowski Arthur , Delamon Guillaume , Nectoux Pierre , Brouard Benoît
Published: November 2019

Background

The data regarding the use of conversational agents in oncology are scarce.

Objective

The aim of this study was to verify whether an artificial conversational agent was able to provide answers to patients with breast cancer with a level of satisfaction similar to the answers given by a group of physicians.

Methods

This study is a blind, noninferiority randomized controlled trial that compared the information given by the chatbot, Vik, with that given by a multidisciplinary group of physicians to patients with breast cancer. Patients were women with breast cancer in treatment or in remission. The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Group information questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-INFO25) was adapted and used to compare the quality of the information provided to patients by the physician or the chatbot. The primary outcome was to show that the answers given by the Vik chatbot to common questions asked by patients with breast cancer about their therapy management are at least as satisfying as answers given by a multidisciplinary medical committee by comparing the success rate in each group (defined by a score above 3). The secondary objective was to compare the average scores obtained by the chatbot and physicians for each INFO25 item.

Results

A total of 142 patients were included and randomized into two groups of 71. They were all female with a mean age of 42 years (SD 19). The success rates (as defined by a score >3) was 69% (49/71) in the chatbot group versus 64% (46/71) in the physicians group. The binomial test showed the noninferiority (P<.001) of the chatbot’s answers.

Conclusions

This is the first study that assessed an artificial conversational agent used to inform patients with cancer. The EORTC INFO25 scores from the chatbot were found to be noninferior to the scores of the physicians. Artificial conversational agents may save patients with minor health concerns from a visit to the doctor. This could allow clinicians to spend more time to treat patients who need a consultation the most.

Trial Registration

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03556813, https://tinyurl.com/rgtlehq
A Web-Based Program for Cannabis Use and Psychotic Experiences in Young People (Keep It Real): Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Hides Leanne , Baker Amanda , Norberg Melissa , Copeland Jan , Quinn Catherine , Walter Zoe , Leung Janni , Stoyanov Stoyan R , Kavanagh David
Published: November 2019

Background

Young Australians (16-25 years) have the highest rates of past-month cannabis use in the world. Cannabis use increases the risk of alcohol and other drug disorders and depressive disorders, and has a robust dose-response association with psychotic experiences (PEs) and disorders. PEs are subthreshold positive psychotic symptoms, including delusions and hallucinations, which increase the risk of substance use, depressive or anxiety disorders, and psychotic disorders. Access to effective web-based early interventions targeting both cannabis use and PEs could reduce such risk in young people.

Objective

The objective of this study is to determine the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of the Keep it Real web-based program compared to an information-only control website among young cannabis users (16-25 years) with PEs.

Methods

Participants are recruited online, and consenting individuals meeting inclusion criteria (aged 16-25 years, who have used cannabis in the past month and experienced PEs in the past 3 months) are automatically randomized to either the Keep it Real web-based program (n=249) or an information-only control website (n=249). Both websites are self-guided (fully automated). The baseline and follow-up assessments at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months are self-completed online. Primary outcome measures are weekly cannabis use, PEs, and the relative cost-effectiveness for quality-adjusted life years. Secondary outcomes include other substance use and related problems, PE-related distress, cannabis intoxication experiences, severity of cannabis dependence, depression/anxiety symptoms, suicidality, and mental well-being and functioning.

Results

Recruitment commenced in February 2019, and the results are expected to be submitted for publication in mid-2021.

Conclusions

This study protocol describes a large randomized controlled trial of a new web-based program for young cannabis users experiencing PEs. If effective, the accessibility and scalability of Keep it Real could help reduce growing public health concerns about the significant social, economic, and health impacts of cannabis use.

Trial Registration

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12618001107213; https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=374800

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/15803
The “Preparation for Shared Decision-Making” Tool for Women With Advanced Breast Cancer: Qualitative Validation Study
Authors: Masi Domitilla , Gomez-Rexrode Amalia Elvira , Bardin Rina , Seidman Joshua
Published: November 2019

Background

The range of decisions and considerations that women with advanced breast cancer (ABC) face can be overwhelming and difficult to manage. Research shows that most patients prefer a shared decision-making (SDM) approach as it provides them with the opportunity to be actively involved in their treatment decisions. The current engagement of these patients in their clinical decisions is suboptimal. Moreover, implementing SDM into routine clinical care can be challenging as patients may not always feel adequately prepared or may not expect to be involved in the decision-making process.

Objective

Avalere Health developed the Preparation for Shared Decision-Making (PFSDM) tool to help patients with ABC feel prepared to communicate with their clinicians and engage in decision making aligned with their preferences. The goal of this study was to validate the tool for its acceptability and usability among this patient population.

Methods

We interviewed a diverse group of women with ABC (N=30). Interviews were audiorecorded, transcribed, and double coded by using NVivo. We assessed 8 themes to understand the acceptability and usability of the tool.

Results

Interviewees expressed that the tool was acceptable for preparing patients for decision making and would be useful for helping patients know what to expect in their care journey. Interviewees also provided useful comments to improve the tool.

Conclusions

This validation study confirms the acceptability and usability of the PFSDM tool for women with ABC. Future research should assess the feasibility of the tool’s implementation in the clinical workflow and its impact on patient outcomes.
A Chatbot Versus Physicians to Provide Information for Patients With Breast Cancer: Blind, Randomized Controlled Noninferiority Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Bibault Jean-Emmanuel , Chaix Benjamin , Guillemassé Arthur , Cousin Sophie , Escande Alexandre , Perrin Morgane , Pienkowski Arthur , Delamon Guillaume , Nectoux Pierre , Brouard Benoît
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

The data regarding the use of conversational agents in oncology are scarce.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to verify whether an artificial conversational agent was able to provide answers to patients with breast cancer with a level of satisfaction similar to the answers given by a group of physicians.

METHODS

This study is a blind, noninferiority randomized controlled trial that compared the information given by the chatbot, Vik, with that given by a multidisciplinary group of physicians to patients with breast cancer. Patients were women with breast cancer in treatment or in remission. The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Group information questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-INFO25) was adapted and used to compare the quality of the information provided to patients by the physician or the chatbot. The primary outcome was to show that the answers given by the Vik chatbot to common questions asked by patients with breast cancer about their therapy management are at least as satisfying as answers given by a multidisciplinary medical committee by comparing the success rate in each group (defined by a score above 3). The secondary objective was to compare the average scores obtained by the chatbot and physicians for each INFO25 item.

RESULTS

A total of 142 patients were included and randomized into two groups of 71. They were all female with a mean age of 42 years (SD 19). The success rates (as defined by a score >3) was 69% (49/71) in the chatbot group versus 64% (46/71) in the physicians group. The binomial test showed the noninferiority (P<.001) of the chatbot’s answers.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study that assessed an artificial conversational agent used to inform patients with cancer. The EORTC INFO25 scores from the chatbot were found to be noninferior to the scores of the physicians. Artificial conversational agents may save patients with minor health concerns from a visit to the doctor. This could allow clinicians to spend more time to treat patients who need a consultation the most.

CLINICALTRIAL

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03556813, https://tinyurl.com/rgtlehq
An efficient 3D Diffie-Hellman based Two-Server password-only authenticated key exchange
Authors: K Anitha Kumari , G Sudha Sadasivam
Published: November 2019

In emerging technological world, security potentially remains as a highest challenge in the large-scale distributed systems, as it is suffering extensively with adversarial attacks due to insufficient mutual authentication. In order to address this, a state-of-art tetrahedron (3D) based two-server Password Authenticated and Key Exchange (PAKE) protocol has been formulated with formal proof of security by incorporating the elementary properties of plane geometry. The main intention of this work is, obtaining a password from the stored credentials must be infeasible when both the servers compromised together. At the outset to realize these goals, in this paper, the properties of the tetrahedron are utilized along with Diffie-Hellman (DH) key exchange algorithm to withstand against malicious attacks. A significant aspect of the proposed 3D PAKE protocol is, client side complexity has been reduced to a greater extent in terms of computation and communication. Both theoretically and practically, 3D PAKE protocol is the first demonstrable secure two-server PAKE protocol that breaks the assumptions of the Yang et al. and Yi et al. protocol that the two servers must not compromise together. Computational complexity, communication complexity, security key principles, best of all attacks happening dubiously are considered as the evaluation parameters to compare the performance of the proposed 3D PAKE protocol.
Wetting behavior and interfacial characteristic of eutectic In-Ag solders on Au thin films
Authors: Mansoor Muhammad Mansoor , Zilohu Ahnaf Usman , Mujahid Muhammad , Khan Shaheed
Published: November 2019

Soldering electrical contacts to gold thin films is a matter of consideration due to high soldering temperature, restricted wetting, excessive scavenging and low strength offered by most of the common soldering alloys. Indium alloys offer certain benefits for gold soldering justifying their increased cost. In the present study, hypo-, hyper- and eutectic In-Ag solder were prepared and investigated for compositional and structural homogeneity, soldering temperature, contact angle, spreading factor, scavenging zone and scavenging phase (i.e. AuIn2). It was found that addition of silver (~3.5%) ameliorated the above mentioned characteristics for better control of soldering practice with gold thin films besides lowering the soldering temperature.
Comparative study on natural and reactive dye for cotton coloration
Authors: Repon Md. Reazuddin , Islam M. Tauhidul , Mamun Md. Abdullah Al , Rashid Muhammad Abdur
Published: November 2019

Eco-friendly textile dyeing with natural dye is a global soaring interest for avoiding environment pollution incurred by synthetic dyes. This study attempts to compare the dyeing properties of cotton knitted fabric dyed with banana floral stem (BFS) sap and reactive dye. Natural dye i.e. BFS sap was extracted from the species of Musa sapientum by roller squeezer machine. The recipe of reactive dyeing was selected to match the exact shade with the natural dyed specimens. Conformation of the dye molecule fixation onto fiber surface was assured by FTIR-ATR spectra. Comparative analysis were carried out in response of degree of color levelness, color fastness to water, washing, perspiration, rubbing, light and effluent qualities. The economic viability of natural dyeing was also estimated. The specimens dyed with BFS sap have excellent color levelness and color durability characteristic alike reactive dye except light fastness properties. Moreover, natural dyeing costs were almost half of the reactive dyeing. Finally, this inquiry forecasts a less time, energy and water consuming, economical and ecofriendly dyeing process which could be deployed as replacement of reactive dyes with a few compromises.
Characterization of New Cellulose Fiber from the Molina (Lagenaria Siceraria) Plant
Authors: Saravanan N. , Sampath P.S.
Published: November 2019

This research explores the extraction and characterization of natural fiber from the agro-waste of Lagenaria siceraria (LS) plant stem (commonly known as bottle guard). The extracted fiber from the waste stems has high cellulose content (79.91 %) with good tensile strength (257–717 MPa) and thermal stability (withstand up to 339.1°C). The huge percentage of crystalline index (92.4%) with the crystalline size (7.2 nm) as well as low density (1.216 g/cm3) of the LS fiber renders their possibility to use as an effective reinforcement material in lightweight eco-friendly composites for various industrial applications.
Performance analysis of S-Aloha used as a random acces channel on mobile communications
Authors: Covarrubias D. , Mendez A. , Vargas C.
Published: November 2019

This paper evaluates the effects of Rayleigh fading, shadowing, and spatial distribution of the Mobile Terminals (MTs) on the operating performance of Slotted Aloha (S-Aloha) used as a Random Access Channel (RACH). This paper also evaluates the capture probability in a channel exhibiting Rayleigh fading, shadowing, and the effect of spatial distribution of the MTs. In addition, this work presents a different version of the steady-sate probabilities of the Markov chain of S-Aloha considering capture effect. This article simulates the stabilization of S-Aloha by utilizing an algorithm that dynamically controls the retransmission probabilities. Finally, this paper presents a numerical analysis of these simulations and identifies the operating of parameters that have shown to degrade system response.
Efficient circuit implementation of morlet wavelets
Authors: Meléndez-Rodrí­guez M. , Silva-Martí­nez J. , Spencer R.
Published: November 2019

A family of versatile building blocks intended for the implementation of Morlet wavelets is proposed. The circuits are compact, fully programmable, and well suited for low-voltage and low-power applications. The resulting wavelet is temperature compensated and low sensitive to process parameter variations. Using current sources can independently control the main wavelet parameters. Hspice and breadboard results demonstrate the feasibility of both the wavelet realization and proposed circuits.
Implementation of real time autocorrelation method employing the DS87C550 microcontroller
Authors: Jiménez-Cañas A. , Fernández-Castellanos C. , Castro-Castillo V. , Ruiz-Toledo A. , Sotomayor-Ortega A.
Published: November 2019

In this work, the implementation of Real Time Autocorrelation method proposed by Takeuchi and Hogaki, is exposed. The purpose is to obtain the frequency of the fetal cardiac beats, originated from a Fetal Detector, using a wide-benefits DS87C550 microcontroller. The value of frequency is showed in a LCD. The autocorrelation algorithm was simulated in a PC to know its dynamic behavior from selected signals. A criterion to carry out the recognition and the selection of the first conformed crest, was obtained. By means of this criterion, the period of the processed signal is determined. Consequently, an optimized and original algorithm was created and implemented in the microcontroller, where the value of the fetal cardiac frequency (given in pulses per minute, ppm.) is obtained each 1.2 sec. In that time, two calculated values of frequency are averaged.
ENHANCING THE SYMBOLIC ANALYSIS OF ANALOG CIRCUITS
Authors: Tlelo-Cuautle E. , Aguila-Meza J.
Published: November 2019

A new symbollc-method is introduced to enhance the calculation of symbolic expressions of analog circults. First, the analog circuit is transformed to a nullor equivalent circuit. Second, a new method is introduced to the formulation of a compact system of equations (CSES). Third, a new method is introduced to the solution of theCSES, by avoiding multiplications by zero to Improve the evaluation of determlnants. Flnally, two eXamples are given to show the usefulness of the proposed methods to calculate fully symbolic transfer functions.
Three-axis air-bearing based platform for small satellite attitude determination and control simulation
Authors: Prado J. , Bisiacchi G. , Reyes L. , Vicente E. , Contreras F. , Mesinas M. , Juárez A.
Published: November 2019

A frictionless environment simulation platform, utilized for accomplishing three-axis attitude control tests in small satellites, is introduced. It is employed to develop, improve, and carry out objective tests of sensors, actuators, and algorithms in the experimental framework. Different sensors (i.e. sun, earth, magnetometer, and an inertial measurement unit) are utilized to assess three-axis deviations. A set of three inertial wheels is used as primary actuators for attitude control, together with three mutually perpendicular magnetic coils intended for desaturation purposes, and as a backup control system. Accurate balancing, through the platform’s center of mass relocation into the geometrical center of the spherical air-bearing, significatively reduces gravitational torques, generating a virtually torque-free environment. A very practical balancing procedure was developed for equilibrating the table in the local horizontal plane, with a reduced final residual torque. A wireless monitoring system was developed for on-line and post-processing analysis; attitude data are displayed and stored, allowing properly evaluate the sensors, actuators, and algorithms. A specifically designed onboard computer and a set of microcontrollers are used to carry out attitude determination and control tasks in a distributed control scheme. The main components and subsystems of the simulation platform are described in detail.
Principal factors determination in the growth of thin films using Taguchi’s technique
Authors: Vázquez-Cerón E. R. , Barrales-Guadarrama V. R. , Rodrí­guez-Rodrí­guez E. M. , Barrales-Guadarrama R.
Published: November 2019

A methodology to improve the production and quality of deposited thin films has been developed for the PLD technique. The main purpose is the optimization of electrical and transport properties of the films through the characterization of growth parameters concerning some important characteristics of the material such as roughness, resistance, homogeneity, etc. It improves the production process of thin films, and it also decreases costs, conserving the quality at the same time. The use of interpolations and orthogonal arrangements allows to evaluate the growth parameters and to predict results eliminating the need to repeat experiments.
Dynamic fuzzy logic functor
Authors: Pérez-Silva J. L. , Garcés-Madrigal A. , Miranda-Vitela A. , Lara-Rosano. F.
Published: November 2019

This is a fuzzy logical element from which we can generate all the fuzzy connectives as particular cases of it. This functor was a result of the frequency threshold dependent fuzzy logic. We will show that fuzzy logic connectives are generated by a defined group of inputs from this fuzzy functor as dependence of frequency threshold. If we apply time varying signals to the functor, we will see that the responses of the functor depend on the concordances of the input signals and the frequency threshold value. The value of the logical functor threshold can be a time dependent function in such a way that, when varying the threshold, the form that the functor takes as logical connective changes for each time dependent threshold function value in time. In this work we will define the logical functor, we will show its logical operation procedure and we will show the electronic circuit in which a functional model was implanted.
ANN analysis in a vision approach for potato inspection
Authors: Rios-Cabrera R. , Lopez-Juarez I , Sheng-Jen Hsieh
Published: November 2019

An image processing methodology for the extraction of potato properties is explained. The objective is to determine their quality evaluating physical properties and using Artificial Neural Networks (ANN’s) to find misshapen potatoes. A comparative analysis for three connectionist models (Backpropagation, Perceptron and FuzzyARTMAP), evaluating speed and stability for classifying extracted properties is presented. The methodology for image processing and pattern feature extraction is presented together with some results. These results showed that FuzzyARTMAP outperformed the other models due to its stability and convergence speed with times as low as 1 ms per pattern which demonstrates its suitability for real-time inspection. Several algorithms to determine potato defects such as greening, scab, cracks are proposed which can be affectively used for grading different quality of potatoes.
Wireless communication protocol based on EDF for wireless body sensor networks
Authors: Aquino-Santos Raúl , González Potes Apolinar , Rangel-Licea Ví­ctor , Garcí­a-Ruiz Miguel A. , Villaseñor-González L. A. , Edwards-Block Arthur
Published: November 2019

This paper presents a wireless communication protocol based on the Earliest Deadline First policy for wireless body sensor networks. This work advances a previous effort by proposing using an implicit Earliest Deadline First policy to guarantee real-time communication by optimizing network traffic flow, although this strategy may imply using the totality of bandwidth resources. The proposed protocol uses a slotted time-triggered medium access transmission control that is collision-free, even in the presence of hidden nodes. The protocol has been analytically modeled using Colored Petri Networks and Simulated in OPNET.
State variables monitoring using a class of nonlinear observer based estimator, applied to continuous bio-system
Authors: Aguilar-López Ricardo , Acevedo-Gómez Ricardo , Neria González Marí­a Isabel , Domí­nguez-Bocanegra Alma Rosa
Published: November 2019

In this work, the state estimation of key variables such as biomass and products of a sulfate reducing bacterium is predicted by using only sulfate (substrate) concentration measurements under the assumption of an unknown kinetic term. The process was developed by  ontinuous culture, where the mathematical kinetic model for the biomass, sulfate and sulfide concentrations is presented and tuned using experimental data. The design of the nonlinear state estimator takes into account an adaptive gain. The results of the proposed estimation methodology were generated via numerical simulation; they showed a satisfactory performance.
Electronic model of a dubois fuzzy integration neuron
Authors: Pérez S. J.L. , Garcés M A. , Cabiedes C. F. , Miranda V. A.
Published: November 2019

In this work, we present a fuzzy electronic neuron that has a Dubois fuzzy integration method, an activation function with a fuzzy threshold, and a fuzzy response. We generated a fuzzy sum of the input signals and a shooting threshold value defined by means of a triangular or sinusoidal membership function. We present the electronic circuits, the oscilograms of the neuron responses, the value of the fuzzy integral, and we compare their behavior with those of a conventional leaky integrator neuron.
Behavior of quantization noise for sinusoidal signals. A revision.
Authors: Pérez-Alcázar P. R. , Santos A.
Published: November 2019

This paper presents a brief revision of several studies presented in the literature about the behavior of quantization noise for sinusoidal signals and for uniform quantizers. From this revision, the conclusion is that quantization noise has been assumed to be additive and has a white spectrum, although some published studies, considering the problem either from a deterministic point of view or from a stochastic one, have shown a different noise behavior for some specific cases. Some of these cases are related with the parameters that characterize the sinusoidal signal and other with the conditions under which the process of conversion is realized. There are some cases that have not very been well considered in the previous literature and about which it is convenient to call attention. By this reason and using computer simulations with sinusoidal input signals, it is illustrated here that the quantization noise spectrum can show a discrete or complex structure depending on the relation between the sampling rate used and the frequency of the signal. Moreover, some points to consider in order to get a better description of the quantization noise are presented.
Comparative Study of Parallel Variants for a Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Laguna-Sánchez Gerardo A. , Olguí­n-Carbajal Mauricio , Cruz-Cortés Nareli , Barrón-Fernández Ricardo , Álvarez-Cedillo Jesús A.
Published: November 2019

The Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm is a well known alternative for global optimization based on a bio‐inspired heuristic. PSO has good performance, low computational complexity and few parameters. Heuristic techniques have been widely studied in the last twenty years and the scientific community is still interested in technological alternatives that accelerate these algorithms in order to apply them to bigger and more complex problems. This article presents an empirical study of some parallel variants for a PSO algorithm, implemented on a Graphic Process Unit (GPU) device with multi‐thread support and using the most recent model of parallel programming for these cases. The main idea is to show that, with the help of a multithreading GPU, it is possible to significantly improve the PSO algorithm performance by means of a simple and almost straightforward parallel programming, getting the computing power of cluster in a conventional personal computer.