bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of the measurement uncertainty on the monitoring of thermal comfort through AI predictive algorithms
Authors: Morresi Nicole , Casaccia Sara , Arnesano Marco , Revel Gian Marco
Published: January 2022

This paper presents an approach to assess the measurement uncertainty of human thermal comfort by using an innovative method that comprises a heterogeneous set of data, made by physiological and environmental quantities, and artificial intelligence algorithms, using Monte Carlo method (MCM). The dataset is made up of heart rate variability (HRV) features, air temperature, air velocity and relative humidity. Firstly, MCM is applied to compute the measurement uncertainty of the HRV features: results have shown that among 13 participants, there are uncertainty values in the measurement of HRV features that ranges from ±0.01% to ±0.7 %, suggesting that the uncertainty can be generalized among different subjects. Secondly, MCM is applied by perturbing the input parameters of random forest (RF) and convolutional neural network (CNN) algorithm, trained to measure human thermal comfort. Results show that environmental quantities produce different uncertainty on the thermal comfort: RF has the highest uncertainty due to the air temperature (14 %), while CNN has the highest uncertainty when relative humidity is perturbed (10.5 %). A sensitivity analysis also shows that air velocity is the parameter that causes a higher deviation of thermal comfort
Measurements for non-intrusive load monitoring through machine learning approaches
Authors: Bucci Giovanni , Ciancetta Fabrizio , Fiorucci Edoardo , Mari Simone , Fioravanti Andrea
Published: January 2022

The topic of non-intrusive load monitoring (NILM) has seen a significant increase in research interest over the past decade, which has led to a significant increase in the performance of these systems. Nowadays, NILM systems are used in numerous applications, in particular by energy companies that provide users with an advanced management service of different consumption. These systems are mainly based on artificial intelligence algorithms that allow the disaggregation of energy by processing the absorbed power signal over more or less long time intervals (generally from fractions of an hour up to 24 h). Less attention was paid to the search for solutions that allow non-intrusive monitoring of the load in (almost) real time, that is, systems that make it possible to determine the variations in loads in extremely short times (seconds or fractions of a second). This paper proposes possible approaches for non-intrusive load monitoring systems operating in real time, analysing them from the point of view of measurement. The measurement and post-processing techniques used are illustrated and the results discussed. In addition, the work discusses the use of the results obtained to train machine learning algorithms that allow you to convert the measurement results into useful information for the user.
Indicators of reproducibility and suitability for assessing the quality of production services
Authors: Vasilevskyi Oleksandr , Koval Maryna , Kravets Svetlana
Published: January 2022

A technique is proposed for estimating the probability of the possible appearance of defective products or the inconsistency of the production service on the basis of indexes of suitability and reproducibility of the production process.

The index of reproduction is recommended to be calculated on the basis of the standard deviation, which can be established by the average span of the control map and the limits of the tolerance field. At the same time, the production process must necessarily be in a state of statistical controllability. The suitability index cannot be calculated on the basis of the control card characteristics, but it is evaluated solely on the basis of the total of the standard deviation, which is calculated by the Bessel formula and the tolerance limits. The production process does not need to be statistically controllable. Conclusions on the suitability or insufficiency of the products (production services) are based on the value of the indexes of reproduction and suitability, which can take values less than or greater than one. On the basis of these indexes of obtained values, the probability of production appearance or characteristics of the production process, that does not match the established requirements, is established.
The Impact of Femoral Component Cementation on Fracture and Mortality Risk in Elective Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Edelstein Adam I. , Hume Eric L. , Pezzin Liliana E. , McGinley Emily L. , Dillingham Timothy R.
Published: January 2022

Background:

Complications following elective total hip arthroplasty (THA) are rare but potentially devastating. The impact of femoral component cementation on the risk of periprosthetic femoral fractures and early perioperative death has not been studied in a nationally representative population in the United States.

Methods:

Elective primary THAs performed with or without cement among elderly patients were identified from Medicare claims from 2017 to 2018. We performed separate nested case-control analyses matched 1:2 on age, sex, race/ethnicity, comorbidities, payment model, census division of facility, and exposure time and compared fixation mode between (1) groups with and without 90-day periprosthetic femoral fracture and (2) groups with and without 30-day mortality.

Results:

A total of 118,675 THAs were included. The 90-day periprosthetic femoral fracture rate was 2.0%, and the 30-day mortality rate was 0.18%. Cases were successfully matched. The risk of periprosthetic femoral fracture was significantly lower among female patients with cement fixation compared with matched controls with cementless fixation (OR = 0.83; 95% CI, 0.69 to 1.00; p = 0.05); this finding was not evident among male patients (p = 0.94). In contrast, the 30-day mortality risk was higher among male patients with cement fixation compared with matched controls with cementless fixation (OR = 2.09; 95% CI, 1.12 to 3.87; p = 0.02). The association between cement usage and mortality among female patients almost reached significance (OR = 1.74; 95% CI, 0.98 to 3.11; p = 0.06).

Conclusions:

In elderly patients managed with THA, cemented stems were associated with lower rates of periprosthetic femoral fracture among female patients but not male patients. The association between cemented stems and higher rates of 30-day mortality was significant for male patients and almost reached significance for female patients, although the absolute rates of mortality were very low. For surgeons who can competently perform THA with cement, our data support the use of a cemented stem to avoid periprosthetic femoral fracture in elderly female patients.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
La educación virtual en odontología
Authors: Aguilar Gálvez Denisse Pilar Carmen
Published: January 2022

La enseñanza de la odontología tradicional, en todas sus especialidades, se ha basado siempre en el traspaso del conocimiento de manera presencial, es decir, un tutor enseña cómo realizar el procedimiento y el alumno repite lo indicado. Del mismo modo, a lo largo de los años se ha llevado a cabo la enseñanza del diagnóstico basado en signos y síntomas identificados de manera presencial, es decir, con el paciente frente a los clínicos. Sin embargo, desde el año 1998, se ha presentado una tendencia a la simulación de este proceso de aprendizaje.
Design of Optimal Real Time Emulators for Steam and Wind Turbines for Avoiding Risky Severe Conditions
Authors: El-Zoghby helmy , Ramadan Haitham S. , Alhelou Hassan Haes
Published: January 2022

Modern energy infrastructures may face critical impacts on distributed generation and microgrids in presence of renewable and conventional energy sources. Fast restorations for these networks through proposing convenient proactive protection systems become mandatory for securing energy particularly after severe faults. This paper deals with presenting a descriptive modelling and comprehensive analysis of both steam and wind turbines using optimal real time emulators with unique testbench. Based on the dynamics of each turbine, both emulators are performed using 4kW, 180V, 1500r.p.m separately exited DC motor coupled to 2kW, 380V, 50Hz, 1500r.p.m three-phase synchronous generator. For real-time interface implementation, the mathematical models of steam and wind turbines are realized using LabVIEWTM software. The characterization and verification of both emulated steam and wind turbines are examined at different normal operating conditions in terms of steam valve position and wind speed, respectively. To regulate the current for both systems despite their diverse dynamics, a simple industrial proportional-integral (PI) controller is considered. Unlike other artificial intelligence-based controllers, the offline-controller gains are scheduled using genetic algorithm (GA) via MatlabTM software to ensure the due fast response to cope with unexpected faults. The experimental validity of both emulators is tested at the most severe abnormal operating conditions. The three-phase short circuit is considered at the generator terminals with different fault periods until reaching out-of-step conditions. From numerical analysis and experimental results, the characterization of both emulated steam and wind turbines explicitly mimics their real large-scale turbines in normal conditions. The emulators’ fast responses using the proposed GA-PI control approach are verified. Besides, the experimental dynamic behavior convergence and interoperability between the emulated and real systems for both steam and wind turbines are validated under severe conditions. The practical results confirm the fast-nature performance of the GA in avoid risky instability conditions.
Effect of Integrating Maternal and Child Health Services, Nutrition and Family Planning Services on Postpartum Family Planning Uptake at 6 Months Post-partum in Burkina Faso, Cote d’Ivoire and Niger: Protocol of a Longitudinal Quasi-experimental Study
Authors: KPEBO DENISE , Coulibaly Abou , Yameogo Maurice , Bijou Sujata , Ramatoulaye Lazoumar , Tougri Halima , N’dour Marguerite , Kouanda Seni
Published: January 2022

Background : Although several interventions integrating maternal, neonatal, child health and nutrition with family planning have been implemented and tested, there is still limited evidence on their effectiveness to guide program efforts and policy action,on health services integration. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of a service delivery model integrating maternal and child health services, nutrition and family planning services, compared with the general standard of care in Burkina Faso, Cote d'Ivoire, and Niger. Methods: This is a quasi experimental study with one intervention group and one control group of 3-4 health facilities in each country. Each facility was matched to a control facility of the same level of care and that had similar coverage on selected reproductive health indicators such as family planning and post-partum family planning. The study participants are pregnant women (with a 6 months pregnancy at maximum) coming for their first antenatal care visit. They will be followed up to 6 months after childbirth, and will be interviewed at each antenatal visit and also during visits for infant vaccines.The analyzes will be carried out by intention to treat, using generalized linear models (binomial log or log Poisson) to assess the effect of the intervention on the ratio of contraceptive use prevalence between the two groups of the study at a significance level of 5%, while taking into account the cluster effect and adjusting for potential confounding factors (socio-demographic characteristics of women, unevenly distributed at inclusion). Discussion :This longitudinal study, with the provision of family planning services integrated into the whole maternal care continuum, a sufficiently long observation time and repeated measurements, will make it possible to better appreciate the timeline and the factors influencing women's decision-making on the use of post-partum family planning services. The results will help in increasing the body of knowledge regarding the impact of maternal and child health services integration on the utilization of post-partum family planning, taking into account the specific context of sub-Saharan Africa French speaking countries where such information is very needed.
Application of Nature Inspired Soft Computing Techniques for Gene Selection: A Novel Frame Work for Classification of Cancer.
Authors: Aziz Rabia Musheer
Published: January 2022

A modified Artificial Bee Colony (ABC) metaheuristics optimization technique is applied for cancer classification, that reduces the classifier's prediction errors and allows for faster convergence by selecting informative genes. Cuckoo search (CS) algorithm was used in the onlooker bee phase (exploitation phase)of ABC to boost performance by maintaining the balance between exploration and exploitation of ABC. Tuned the modified ABC algorithm by using Naïve Bayes (NB) classifiers to improve the further accuracy of the model. Independent Component Analysis (ICA) is used for dimensionality reduction. In the first step, the reduced dataset is optimized by using Modified ABC and after that, in the second step, the optimized dataset is used to train the NB classifier. Extensive experiments were performed for comprehensive comparative analysis of the proposed algorithm with well-known metaheuristic algorithms, namely Genetic Algorithm (GA) when used with the same framework for the classification of six high-dimensional cancer datasets. The comparison results showed that the proposed model with the CS algorithm achieves the highest performance as maximum classification accuracy with less count of selected genes. This shows the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm which is validated using ANOVA for cancer classification.
Beliefs in Misinformation and Conspiracy Theories About COVID- 19: a Triangular Relationship Between Analytic Thinking, Depressive States, and Misperception
Authors: Delmastro Marco , Paciello Marinella
Published: January 2022

Beliefs about misinformation and conspiracy theories are often associated with a state of mind. With the spread of the pandemic there has been an outbreak of depression cases among the population. In this paper, we attempt to test the relationship between affective states and beliefs in misinformation about COVID-19 during the early phase of the pandemic. We do this through a survey carried out on a random and representative sample of the Italian population that allows us to go and verify the co-evolution of many factors: i.e., beliefs in misinformation, symptoms of depression, perceptions and misperceptions about COVID-19, ways in which citizens got informed about the pandemic, and sociodemographic characteristics (e.g., age, gender, education). The results show that the relationship between affective state and beliefs in misinformation exists but is more complex than hypothesized.
The Electronic Waste Management Crisis- A Situation Analysis of Zambia
Authors: NALWAMBA DAIZY SHOMA
Published: January 2022

Globally, the technological era has seemingly increased the environmental burden of many Low income countries in the management of electronic waste. An increase in the use of electrical and electronic equipment potentially relates to an increase in e-waste in the environment. Poorly managed ewaste degrades the environment in various ways such as through percolation of toxicants into the soils and leaching into aquatic systems. As Zambia steadily develops, the use of EEEs is a major threat in the increased amounts of e-waste thus placing more demand on environmental institutions as well as wellestablished and sustainable e-waste management systems. Environmental issues are complex and diverse, in this view; waste management is an integral part of a sustainable environment thus making effective electronic waste management categorically fundamental. This study employed a mixed method approach (concurrent nested) to assess the effectiveness of electronic waste management facilities in Lusaka. In this study, the inclusion and exclusion criteria were used so as to select the participants by use of questionnaires and interviews. This study showed that in Zambia, e-waste has not been given the same attention as other waste types. The knowledge base of electrical and electronic equipment users is very shallow as this study indicated that most EEE consumers have little or no knowledge of the toxic components of electronic waste. Further, available environmental institutions do not currently have the capacity to quantify e-waste that is generated in the country. Moreover, the e-waste that is appropriately disposed of is exported to neighboring countries recycling. The study concluded that Zambia lacks the needed expertise and facilities to adequately handle e-waste. However, information obtained from EEE users and e-waste generators clearly indicated that inasmuch as there could be efforts by environmental institutions to manage e-waste, there hasn’t been local authority effort to specifically handle e-waste or rather sensitize the users of EEEs on e-waste issues. The study thus recommended the following; creation of e-waste black market, further Studies, Laws to prohibit dumping of e-waste, Promotion of E-waste education amongst EEE users, Promotion of E-waste education amongst EEE users, Repurpose old devices before purchasing new ones.
Biocompatibility Evaluation of PEO-treated Magnesium Alloy Implants Placed in Rabbit Femur Condyle Notches and Paravertebral Muscles
Authors: Kim Seong Ryoung , Lee Keon Mo , Kim Jin Hong , Choi Young Jin , Park Han Ick , Jung Hwa Chul , Roh Hyung Jin , Han Jee Hye Lo , Kim Joon Rae , Lee Bu-Kyu
Published: January 2022

Background: Magnesium alloys have been receiving much attention for use in biodegradable metal implants because of their excellent mechanical properties and biocompatibility. However, their rapid breakdown and low bioactivity can cause the implant to lose mechanical integrity before the bone is completely healed. Moreover, hydrogen gas released during degradation can significantly delay the tissue regeneration process. To solve the instability of magnesium alloys, Zn and Ca can be added to improve the mechanical properties and biocompatibility. One other way to improve the mechanical properties of Mg is plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO), which provides a dense, thick ceramic-like coating on the Mg surface. In this study, high-purity Mg was selected as the control, and Mg-1wt%Zn-0.1wt%Ca alloy and PEO-treated Mg-1wt%Zn-0.1wt%Ca alloy were selected as the test materials; the results of radiographic and histological analyses of their biocompatibility are reported herein. Materials and method: Nineteen New Zealand white rabbits were used in the study. Rod-bars (Ø2.7x13.6mm) were placed on both paravertebral muscles, and cannulated screws (Ø2.7x10mm) were placed on both femur condyle notches. Each animal was implanted in all four sites. X-rays were taken at 0, 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks, micro-CT, and live-CT were taken at 4, 8, and 12 weeks. At weeks 4, 8, and 12, individuals representing each group were selected and sacrificed to prepare specimens for histopathological examination. Result: The results confirm that in vivo, Mg-1wt%Zn-0.1wt%Ca alloy had higher corrosion resistance than high-purity Mg and safely degraded over time without causing possible side effects (foreign body or inflammatory reactions, etc.). In addition, PEO treatment of Mg-1wt%Zn-0.1wt%Ca alloy had a positive effect on fracture recovery by increasing the bonding area with bone. Conclusion: Our results suggest that PEO treatment of Mg-1wt%Zn-0.1wt%Ca alloy can be a promising biomaterials in the field of various clinical situations such as orthopedic and maxillofacial surgerys.
Modified Tectonic Corneoscleral Graft For Management of Devastating Corneoscleral Infections
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyu , Qi Xiaolin , Wang Miaolin , Gao Hua
Published: January 2022

Purpose To analyze the clinical results and the efficacy of modified tectonic corneoscleral graft (TCG) in patients with devastating corneoscleral infections.Methods Twenty-five eyes from 25 patients who underwent modified TCG were enrolled. The recurrence, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), ocular surface stability, postoperative complications and graft survival condition were recorded.Results Among 25 patients, 19 cases were fungal infection and 6 cases were bacterial. The rate of recurrence was 8% with Pythium Insidiosum as a corresponding pathogen. The rate of monocular blindness declined from 100% to 57%. Changes in BCVA from preoperative to postoperative values were significant ( Z=4.22, P＜0.001). The survival of ocular surface stability was 73.6% and 43.9% at 1 and 3 years after surgery, respectively. Within the mean follow-up period of 17.5 ± 8.9 months, 21eyes (84.0%) had a stable ocular surface. The incidence rate of immune rejection was 36%. Corneal epithelial defects occurred in 7 patients and choroidal detachment occurred in 3 patients. No elevation of intraocular pressure was detected.Conclusions The modified TCG is effective in eradicating infection, salvaging the eyeball and saving some useful vision for devastating corneoscleral infections. Regular application of tacrolimus, timely addition of glucocorticoid and good compliance may decrease the postoperative course challenging.
Reasonable Layout of High Drainage Roadways for Jiaojiazhai Mine
Authors: Hu Dongjie , Li Zongxiang
Published: January 2022

To ensure that the gas concentration at the top corner does not exceed the limit, a reasonable level of the high drainage roadway layout in Jiaojiazhai Mine should be determined. In this work, based on the actual conditions of the working face, an SF6 tracer gas was used to test the connectivity between the high drainage roadway and the working face. A discrete element analysis program was used to simulate the deformation law of the overlying strata in the goaf, and a corresponding caving control program for the surrounding rock was written based on the obtained parameters and “O” ring theory. A fluid simulation software was used to simulate and analyze five goaf models with different high drainage roadway layouts (10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 m). The gas drainage data for two layers (10 m and 20 m) of the high drainage roadway were measured. The results showed that the height of the caving zone in the goaf is approximately 20 m, and when the high drainage roadway is arranged along the roof (when the layout layer height is 10 m), the roadway will be directly connected to the working face, thus pumping fresh air to the working face. The gas extraction effect of the 20 m stratum was better than those of the other strata. The simulation results of the gas extraction were consistent with the measured data. The proposed scheme was practically applied, and its effect was found to be evident, thus solving the problem of high gas concentration at the top corner and increasing the mine output.
A Novel Coq8a Mutation in a Case with Juvenile Onset Coq10d4: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Dedeoglu Özge , Tükün Ajlan , Laleli Yahya
Published: January 2022

Primary coenzyme Q10 deficiency-4 (COQ10D4) is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by childhood-onset of cerebellar ataxia and exercise intolerance. Molecular pathology responsible for clinical findings is mitochondrial respiratory chain dysfunction. The main clinical manifestation involves early onset exercise intolerance, progressive cerebellar ataxia and movement disorders. Some affected individuals develop seizures and have mild mental impairment, indicating variable severity. COQ8A gene mutations are responsible for this disease. Here we present a patient with tremor and cerebellar atrophy in which we detected a new mutation in the COQ8A gene. The patient's clinical findings were compatible with juvenile onset COQ10D4. Therefore, we reviewed the clinical, laboratory and genetic findings of 11 juvenile-onset COQ10D4 patients reported to date, as well as the patient's presentation.
Candidate microRNA Biomarkers in Lupus Nephritis: A Meta-Analysis of Profiling Studies in Kidney, Blood and Urine Samples
Authors: Roointan Amir , Gholaminejad Alieh , Shojaie Behrokh , Hudkins Kelly , Gheisari Yousof
Published: January 2022

Lupus nephritis (LN) is a kidney disease caused by systemic lupus erythematosus in which kidneys are attacked by the immune system. MiRNAs participate in the pathogenesis of LN as modulatory effectors in immune responses and nephrogenesis pathways. Despite the large number of miRNAs that are expressed deferentially, identifying the most suitable biomarker candidate for LN is challenging. The aim of this study was to introduce a consensus panel of potential miRNA biomarkers by performing a meta-analysis of miRNA profiles in the kidney, blood, and urine samples of LN patients. A comprehensive literature review approach was considered to find LN-related miRNA expression profiles. After including the 41 eligible studies and performing the data extraction, meta-analysis was done based on the vote-counting rank strategy and as well as meta-analysis of p-value. The result of the meta-analysis was three lists of consensus miRNAs with altered expression profiles in the various tissue samples of LN patients. Of the 13 studies on kidney tissue, the meta-miRNAs were let-7a, miR-198, let-7e, miR-145, and miR-26a. In addition, meta-miRNAs of miR-199a, miR-21, miR-423, miR-1260b, miR-589, miR-150, miR-155, miR-146a, and miR-183 from 21 studies on blood samples, and miR-146a, miR-204, miR-30c, miR-3201, and miR-1273e from 11 studies on urine samples can be considered as non-invasive biomarker panels for LN. The meta-miRNAs and their related genes were subjected to functional enrichment analyses and network construction. Functional enrichment analysis confirmed the involvement of their target genes in nephropathy-related signaling pathways. Network construction showed miR-145-5p in blood and miR-155-5p in kidney, the best hob miRNAs as candidate drug targets. In conclusion using a meta-analysis approach, our study proposes three meta-miRNA panels that could be the target of further research to assess their potential as biomarkers / therapeutic targets in LN disease.
Assessment of Quality of Ground Water Body of Neelangarai and Triplicane Area in Chennai, Tamil Nadu in The Post Inundation Circumstances
Authors: Rajendran A , Mansiya C. , Shanmuganathan M.
Published: January 2022

Although flood hit the entire part of Chennai, Tamil nadu some three years ago, the quality of water is still found to be worse because of major inundation in these areas. The current inspection deals with the physico-chemical analysis of the ground water samples collected from ten locations in Neelangarai and Triplicane area in Chennai, Tamil Nadu and assessed using Heber Water Quality Index (HWQI) in the post tsunami circumstances. The factors examined were pH, fecal coliform, total dissolved solids (TDS), dissolved oxygen (DO), temperature biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and turbidity. In addition to these parameters, pointers like electrical conductivity and salinity were also taken into consideration. The over all HWQI outcomes for all the trials in Neelangarai area were determined between 65.02 and 72.25 and Triplicane area was 66.64 - 70.71, which suggest that all the samples are medium to good in quality and could used for human consumption.
The Promising Application of a New Ulnar Nerve Compound Muscle Action Potential Measurement Montage in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Zhang Yixuan , Ma Jingyue , Zhang Shuo , Yu Zhou , Fan Dongsheng
Published: January 2022

Objective

Detecting peripheral nerve damage by electrophysiology examination accurately and sensitively is important for the follow-up evaluation of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis(ALS). In this study, we applied a new proximal E2 electrode in the ulnar motor nerve conduction study with E1 on abductor digiti minimi(ADM), and investigated its effect on the compound muscle action potential(CMAP) of the ulnar nerve.
Methods

We included 64 ALS patients and 64 age- and sex- matched controls. Patients characteristics were collected for phenotype, symptom duration and site of onset. The revised ALS Functional Rating Scale(ALSFRS-R) was evaluated at the time of administration to assess the severity of ALS. The ulnar nerve CMAP was recorded using an E1 electrode on the muscle belly and an E2 electrode on distal tendon(traditional montage, CMAP-dE2) and proximal tendon(new montage, CMAP-pE2) respectively.
Results

The waveform of CMAP-pE2 was steadier presenting a uniform unilobed pattern. In the controls, there were no significant differences between the amplitudes of CMAP-dE2 and CMAP-pE2(p=0.96). In ALS patients, the amplitude of CMAP-pE2 was significantly lower than that of CMAP-dE2(p<0.01), especially for patients with ADM spontaneous activity and muscular atrophy. Using the new method, the damaged axons were more likely to be stratified into more severe decreased levels. Furthermore, the decline of CMAP-pE2 was significantly correlated with ALSFRS-R(p<0.01).
Conclusions

The new electrode configuration in the ulnar nerve conduction test could reflect the degree of axonal injury much more sensitively after the presence of ulnar nerve degeneration and was more suitable for the evaluation of disease progression.
Multi-Seam Tracking With a Portable Robotic Welding System in Unstructured Environments
Authors: Yu Shuangfei , Guan Yisheng , Yang Zhi , Liu Chutian , Hu Jiacheng , Hong Jie , Zhu Haifei , Zhang Tao
Published: January 2022

Most welding manufacturing of the heavy industry, such as shipbuilding and construction, is carried out in an unstructured workspace. The term Unstructured indicates the production environment is irregular, changeable and without model. In this case, the changeable workpiece position, workpiece shape, environmental background, and environmental illumination should be carefully considered. Because of such complicated characteristics, the welding is currently being relied on the manual operation, resulting in high cost, low efficiency and quality. This work proposes a portable robotic welding system and a novel seam tracking method. Compared to existing methods, it can cope with more complex general spatial curve weld. Firstly, the tracking pose of the robot is modeled by a proposed dual-sequence tracking strategy. On this basis, the working parameters can be adjusted to avoid robot-workpiece collision around the workpiece corners during the tracking process. By associating the forward direction of the welding torch with the viewpoint direction of the camera, it solves the problem that the weld feature points are prone to be lost in the tracking process by conventional methods. Point cloud registration is adopted to globally locate the multi-segment welds in the workpiece, since the system deployment location is not fixed. Various experiments on single or multiple welds under different environmental conditions show that even if the robot is deployed in different positions, it can reach the starting point of the weld smoothly and accurately track along the welds.
MicroRNA-124 Attenuates PTSD-like Behaviors and Reduces the Level of Inflammatory Cytokines by Downregulating the Expression of TRAF6 in the Hippocampus of Rats Following Single-prolonged Stress
Authors: Chen Yao , Tong Lei , Nie Peng-Yin , Chen Yu-Lu , Ji Lili
Published: January 2022

BackgroundMicroRNA-124-3p (miR-124) plays an important role in neuroprotective functions in various neurological disorders, but whether miR-124 participates in the pathological progression of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) remains poorly understood. MethodsIn the present study, we evaluated the level of neuroinflammation in the hippocampus of rats exposed to single-prolonged stress (SPS) by western blot and immunofluorescence staining, while the effect of miR-124 on PTSD-like behaviors was evaluated by behavioral test. ResultsOur results demonstrated that the level of miR-124 in the hippocampus of rats exposed to SPS was downregulated and that the upregulation of miR-124 could alleviate the PTSD-like behaviors of SPS rats. This effect of miR-124 might be achieved through TNF receptor-associated Factor 6 (TRAF6), which is a target gene of miR-124 and plays an important role in the immune and inflammatory reaction by regulating nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB). Furthermore, we found that miR-124 not only decreased the level of proinflammatory cytokines but also increased the expression levels of synaptic proteins (PSD95 and synapsin I) and regulated the morphology of neurons. ConclusionThese results suggested that miR-124 might attenuate PTSD-like behaviors and decrease the level of proinflammatory cytokines by downregulating the expression of TRAF6 in the hippocampus of rats exposed to SPS.
Dynamic Mechanism of Epilepsy Generation and Propagation After Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Yu Yangyang , Li Jiajia , Yuan Zhixuan , Fan Yongchen , Wu Ying
Published: January 2022

Epilepsy is the second largest neurological disease which seriously threatens human life and health. The one important reason of inducing epilepsy is ischemic stroke which causes insufficient oxygen supply from blood vessels to neurons. However, few studies focus on the underlying mechanism of the generation and propagation of epilepsy after ischemic stroke by utilizing modeling methods. To explore the mechanism, this paper establishes a coupled network model consisting of neurons and astrocytes, and introduces a blood vessel to simulate the condition of ischemic stroke. First we study the effect of the degree of vascular blockage on the generation of epilepsy. The results demonstrate that the important reason of epilepsy after ischemic stroke is the disruption of ion concentration gradient. Then we study three factors that influence the epileptic propagation after ischemic stroke: massive glutamate release, excessive receptor activation and high extracellular potassium concentration. The results demonstrate that massive glutamate acting on postsynaptic neurons and the excessive activation of glutamate receptors on postsynaptic neurons promote the epileptic propagation in neuronal population, and massive glutamate acting on astrocytes and excessive activation of metabotropic glutamate receptors on presynaptic neurons inhibit the epileptic propagation, and the potassium uptake by astrocytes suppresses the epileptic propagation. The results are consistent with the experimental phenomena. The simulation results also shed light on the fact that astrocytes have neuroprotective effect. Our results on the generation and propagation of epilepsy after ischemic stroke could offer theoretical guidelines for the treatment of epilepsy after ischemic stroke.
Impaired Brain Activity in Patients With Persistent Atrial Fibrillation Assessed by Near-infrared Spectroscopy and Its Changes After Catheter Ablation
Authors: Yoshihisa Akiomi , Kono Soichi , Kaneshiro Takashi , Ichijo Yasuhiro , Misaka Tomofumi , Yamada Shinya , Oikawa Masayoshi , Miura Itaru , Yabe Hirooki , Takeishi Yasuchika
Published: January 2022

Although the prevalence of cognitive impairment and depression is higher in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) than in the general population, the mechanism has not been fully examined and impact of catheter ablation (CA) of AF also remains unclear. Recently, the development of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) has enabled noninvasive measurements of regional cerebral blood volume and brain activity, in terms of cerebral oxyhemoglobin in the cerebral cortex. We assessed brain activities by NIRS, depressive symptoms by the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) and cognitive function by Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). We then compared the results between AF patients (paroxysmal AF n=18 and persistent AF n=14) and control subjects (n=29). Next, we also followed up persistent AF patients who kept sinus rhythm at 3 months after CA (n=8) and measured their brain activities using NIRS, CES-D and MMSE after CA to investigate the associations of changes in brain activities with changes in both CES-D and MMSE. Our results showed that 1) frontal and temporal brain activities were lower in patients with persistent AF than both in control subjects and paroxysmal AF patients (P<0.01), 2) frontal and temporal brain activities were improved in more than half of the persistent AF patients who kept sinus rhythm at 3 months after CA, especially in those who presented impaired brain activity before CA, and 3) improvement of frontal brain activity was associated with improvement of CES-D (R=-0.793, P=0.019), whereas improvement of temporal brain activity was associated with improvement of MMSE (R=0.749, P=0.033). NIRS measurement showed reduced frontal and temporal brain activities in the persistent AF patients, CA improved frontal and temporal brain activities in some of these patients, and associated with improvement of depressive state and/or improvement of cognitive function.
The Genetic Structure of Pain in Depression Patients: A Genome-Wide Association Study and Proteome-Wide Association Study
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Liu Li , Zhang Huijie , Li Chun'e , Chen Yujing , Zhang Jingxi , Pan Chuyu , Cheng Shiqiang , Yang Xuena , Meng Peilin , Yao Yao , He Dan , Jia Yumeng , Wen Yan , Zhang Feng
Published: January 2022

Background

Pain symptoms are common in the patients with depression. Comparing with the general population, the pain in depression patients has more complex biological mechanism. We aim to explore the etiological mechanism of pain in depression patients from the perspective of genetics.
Methods

Utilizing the UK Biobank samples with self-reported depression status or PHQ score ≥10, we conducted genome-wide association study (GWAS) of seven pain traits (N=1,133-58,349). The GWAS summary were then integrated with two different reference protein weights (ROS/MAP and Banner) for proteome-wide association study (PWAS) using the FUSION pipeline. Additionally, LDSC analysis was performed to explore the genetic correlation between pain traits in depression patients and common psychiatry disorders. And biological processes and functions that related to pain associated genes in depression patients were analyzed by gene set enrichment analysis.
Results

GWAS identified 3 significant genes associated with different pain traits in depression patients, including TRIOBP (PGWAS= 4.48× 10−8) for stomach or abdominal pain, SLC9A9(PGWAS= 2.77× 10−8) for multisite chronic pain (MCP) and ADGRF1 (PGWAS= 1.51× 10−8) for neck or shoulder pain. PWAS also identified multiple candidate genes associated with different pain traits in depression patients, such as TPRG1L (permutation-based PPWAS−Banner= 3.38× 10−2) and SIRPA (permutation-based PPWAS−Banner= 3.65×10−2) for MCP etc. LDSC analysis results showed that MCP was positively correlated with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (genetic correlation(rg) = 0.123, PLDSC = 0.039) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (rg = 0.217, PLDSC = 0.029).
Conclusions

We reported multiple novel candidate genes and genetic correlations for pain traits in depression patients, providing novel clues for understanding the genetic mechanisms underlying the pain in depression patients.
Effects of Vitrified Cryopreservation Duration on the IVF and Neonatal Outcomes
Authors: Mao Yuling , Yin Ping , Luo Yanfen , Qiao Jingda , Li Lei
Published: January 2022

Objective: To evaluate the impact of cryopreservation storage duration on embryo viability, implantation competence, pregnancy outcome and neonatal outcomes.Design: Retrospective study.Setting: Center for Reproductive Medicine，The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University.Patient(s): In vitro fertilization patients who had vitrified cryopreserved embryos and following the first frozen embryo transfer cycles from January 2004 to August 2019. A total of 31143 patients met the inclusion criteria and were grouped according to the storage time (20926 patients in Group 1 with storage time <3 months, 6472 patients in Group 2 with storage time between 3 and 6 months, 2237 patients in Group 3 with storage time between 6 and 12 months and 746 in Group 4 with storage time between 12 and 24 months, 762 patients in Group 5 with storage time >24 months).Intervention(s): None.Main Outcome Measure(s): In the total FET cycles, the embryo survival rate was decreased significantly with the increase of cryopreservation time, and the highest rate was 98. 63 % in the 1-3 months group, and the lowest was 71.13% in the >=731 days group (P <0. 01). The HCG positive rate (57.85%) and clinical pregnancy rate (55. 26%) in the 1-3 months group were the highest (P<0. 01). The >=731 group had the lowest sex ratio of 0.96. There were no significant differences in neonatal birth weight, neonatal height and congenital anomalies among the groups (P>0. 05).Result(s): Length of storage time had a significant effect on post-thaw survival and outcomes for IVF cycles. Conclusion(s): With the prolongation of cryopreservation time, the embryonic survival rate and pregnancy rate were decreased significantly. Short-term cryopreservation (<=3 months) can obtain higher clinical pregnancy rate. Therefore, although long-term hryopreservation of the embryo has no effect on the health of the new baby, but hryopreserved embryos should be recovery as soon as possible if condition allows.
Biomechanical Evaluation of the Mandibular First Molar After Simulated Occlusal Wear Using 3D Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Guo Ke , Sun Shoufu , Shi Yueqi , Zhang Ying , Wei Wenjia , Zhao Haoming
Published: January 2022

PURPOSE：This study aimed to investigate the biomechanical basis of vertical tooth fracture occurring in the mesial root of the mandibular first molar. METHODS：We used 3D finite elements to analyze the stress distribution and transient displacement of the mandibular first molar after occlusal surface wear and tooth tilt. Based on four degrees of wear within each of the surface wear and tooth tilt groups, eight models were established in addition to the control model. A simulated bite force of 200 N was loaded on the occlusal surface, and nonlinear finite element analysis was used to explore the biomechanical basis of vertical root fracture. RESULTS：When the distal tipping angle of the abrasion plane of the mandibular first molar increased from 5° to 15°, the angle between the instantaneous displacement contours and the long axis of the tooth decreased. Meanwhile, the mesial root was found to suffer the highest stress concentration, and the possibility of longitudinal root fracture was increased. CONCLUSION: By evaluating the biomechanical effect of tooth wear and occlusal loading, we are able to identify some clinical interventions that may prevent vertical tooth fracture.
Antigen evolution from D614, to G614, and to Delta subtype of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Zuo Peijun , Li Liping
Published: January 2022

Since 2019, the antigens from Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are keeping in evolution from initial D614, to G614, to Delta, and to Omicron. Seven of the peptides from SARS-CoV-2 are analyzed. The finding is that, the rule or route for the evolution of their antigens are exactly from “rough” status to “precise”. In this paper, we would like to show the initial data how the antigens from initial D614, conducted evolution to G614, to Delta of SARS-CoV-2. This finding can help the development of reagents for detecting the both “rough” and “precise” antigens, or even help for the development of the vaccines against SARS-CoV-2. And finally, to help the control of epidemic covid-19. According to such rule or route, the “common precise” antigens of the SARS-CoV-2 can be designed in silicon, developed in laboratory, and confirmed in animals. The way should be very tough and long.
Efficacy and safety of convalescent plasma therapy for severe COVID-19 patients：case series study and literature review
Authors: Huang Jinbao , Lan Changqing
Published: January 2022

Background
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a new acute respiratory infectious disease which can lead to multiple organ dysfunction in severe patients. However, it is still a lack of effective antiviral drugs for COVID-19. Herein we investigated the efficacy and safety of convalescent plasma (CP) in the treatment of severe COVID-19, with an attempt to explore new therapeutic method.
Methods
Clinical data of three imported severe COVID-19 patients with CP treatment, who were under quarantine and treated in a designated COVID-19 hospital from March 2020 to April 2020, were collected and analyzed.
Results
The three patients were clinically classified as severe type, including one male and two females, aged 57, 59 and 65 years old, respectively. The main underling diseases included hypertension, diabetes, sequela of cerebral infarction and postoperative thyroid adenoma. The common symptoms included cough, fever and short of breath. All the patients received antiviral drugs and other supportive treatments. Additionally, CP treatment was also administrated for them. Forty-eight to seventy-two hours after CP transfusion, all the patients improved with alleviated symptoms, elevated arterial oxygen saturation, decreased C-reactive protein and interleukin-6 markers. And the total lymphocytes, T lymphocytes (CD3+) and their subsets (CD4+, CD8+) also obviously increased. Repeated chest CTs also showed obvious absorption of lesions in bilateral lung. Only one patient had mild allergic reaction during CP infusion, but no severe adverse reactions were found.
Conclusions
The early application of CP for severe COVID-19 patients can improve the condition rapidly, and the therapy is generally effective and safe.
The Piston Effect inside a microchannel with Carbon Dioxide near Critical conditions
Authors: Manda Uday , Parahovnik Anatoly , Peles Yoav
Published: January 2022

Heat transfer near the critical condition of Carbon Dioxide due to thermo-acoustic waves in a 100-µm high microchannel was numerically studied. The temperature at a point farthest away from the heated surface was compared between computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models and a pure conduction model. The comparison revealed that the CFD model predicted a temperature increase furthest from the surface much faster than the time constant required for such increase purely by conduction. It is believed that another heat transfer process, termed the piston effect (PE), which is associated with pressure waves in the fluid, was responsible for this increase. Explicit unsteady methodology in the fluid model indicated that propagation of pressure waves due to a rapid expansion of the boundary layer and the associate change in the fluid density distribution resulted in this temperature raise. It was confirmed that natural convection wasn’t responsible for the temperature increase under quiescent conditions. In addition, it was discovered that the PE is significant for certain forced convection conditions.