bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protocol for an RCT on cognitive bias modification for alcohol use disorders in a religion-based rehabilitation program
Authors: Seesink Henk-Jan , Schaap-Jonker Hanneke , Ostafin Brian , Lokman John C , Wiers Reinout W
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Alcohol-related cues trigger relapse in patients with alcohol use disorders (AUDs). These cues may automatically activate motivational approach tendencies. Through computerised cognitive bias modification (CBM), the tendencies of patients with AUD to approach alcohol can be reduced. The present protocol describes a training intervention with approach bias modification (ApBM) incorporating religion-related stimuli as an alternative to alcohol to improve the effectiveness of CBM in a religion-based rehabilitation centre. AUD is often related to patients’ religious attitudes in this treatment context. The religion-adapted ApBM, therefore, combines training in avoidance of alcohol-related motivational cues and an approach to religion-based motivational cues. This combination’s effectiveness will be compared with a standard ApBM and to a sham ApBM.

Methods and analysis

Using a double-blind multiarm parallel randomised controlled trial procedure (ratio 1:1:1), 120 patients with AUD will be randomised into 1 of 3 conditions (religion-adapted ApBM, standard ApBM or sham ApBM) with personalised stimuli. The interventions are delivered over 4 consecutive days during an inpatient detoxification programme in addition to treatment as usual. Assessments occur before the start of the training and after the fourth training session, with follow-up assessments after 1 and 4 months. A multivariate analysis of variance will be used with the primary outcomes, the percentage of days abstinent and meaning in life 4-month follow-up. Secondary outcomes include differences in reported training satisfaction and symptoms of AUD.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been reviewed and approved by the Medical Research Ethics Committee Academic Medical Center Amsterdam (Reference number: 2020_251). Further, study results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at international conferences.

Trial registration number

NL75499.018.20.
ExploriNg DUrable Remission with Rituximab in ANCA-associatEd vasculitis (ENDURRANCE trial): protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Dirikgil Ebru , van Leeuwen Jolijn R , Dam Laura S van , Bredewold Obbo W , Ray Argho , Jonker Jacqueline T , Soonawala Darius , Remmelts Hilde H F , van Dam Bastiaan , Bos Willem Jan , van Kooten Cees , Rotmans Joris , Rabelink Ton , Teng Y K Onno
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Both rituximab (RTX) and cyclophosphamide (CYC) are effectively used in combination with steroids as remission induction therapy for patients with antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV). Several studies have shown that the effect on achieving (clinical) remission, frequency and severity of relapses is equivalent for both therapies, but there is accumulating data that the long-term safety profile of RTX might outperform CYC. Combination of RTX with low-dose CYC (LD-CYC) has been investigated in only a few uncontrolled cohort studies, in which clinical remission and a favourable immunological state with low relapse rates was quickly achieved. In this randomised controlled trial, we aim to investigate whether the combination treatment (RTX+LD CYC) is superior in comparison to standard care with RTX only.

Methods and analysis

This study is an open-label, multicentre, 1:1 randomised, prospective study for patients with AAV with generalised disease, defined as involvement of major organs, that is, kidneys, lungs, heart and nervous system. In total, 100 patients will be randomised 1:1 to receive either remission induction therapy with standard of care (RTX) or combination treatment (RTX+LD CYC) in addition to steroids and both arms are followed by maintenance with RTX retreatments (tailored to B-cell and ANCA status). Our primary outcome is the number of retreatments needed to maintain clinical remission over 2 years. Secondary outcomes are relevant clinical endpoints, safety, quality of life and immunological responses.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has received approval of the Medical Ethics Committee of the Leiden University Medical Center (P18.216, NL67515.058.18, date: 7 March 2019). The results of this trial (positive and negative) will be submitted for publication in relevant peer-reviewed publications and the key findings presented at national and international conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT03942887.
Evaluation of patient STress level caused by radiological Investigations in early Postoperative phase After CRANIOtomy (IPAST-CRANIO): protocol of a Swiss prospective cohort study
Authors: Tosic Lazar , Thoma Marco , Voglis Stefanos , Hofer Anna Sophie , Bektas Delal , Pangalu Athina , Regli Luca , Germans Menno R
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Postoperative imaging after neurosurgical interventions is usually performed in the first 72 hours after surgery to provide an accurate assessment of postoperative resection status. Patient frequently report that early postoperative examination after craniotomy for tumour and vascular procedures is associated with distress, exertion, nausea and pain. Delayed postoperative imaging (between 36 and 72 hours postoperatively) may have an advantage regarding psychological and physical stress compared with early imaging. The goal of this study is to evaluate and determine the optimal time frame for postoperative imaging with MRI and CT in terms of medical and neuroradiological implications and patient’s subjective stress level.

Methods and analysis

Data will be prospectively collected from all patients aged 18–80 years who receive postoperative MRI or CT imaging following a craniotomy for resection of a cerebral tumour (benign and malignant) or vascular surgery. Participants have to complete questionnaires containing visual analogue scores (VAS) for headache and nausea, Body Part Discomfort score and a single question addressing subjective preference of timing of postoperative imaging after craniotomy. The primary endpoint of the study is the difference in subjective stress due to imaging studies after craniotomy, measured just before and after postoperative MRI or CT with the above-mentioned instruments. Subjective stress is defined as a combination of the scores VAS pain, VAS nausea and 0.5* Body Part Discomfort core.

This study determines whether proper timing of postoperative imaging can improve patient satisfaction and reduce pain, stress and discomfort caused by postoperative imaging. Factors causing additional postoperative stress are likely responsible for delayed recovery of neurosurgical patients.

Ethics and dissemination

The institutional review board (Kantonale Ethikkommission Zürich) approved this study on 4 August 2020 under case number BASEC 2020–01590. The authors are planning to publish the data of this study in a peer-reviewed paper. After database closure, the data will be exported to the local data repository (Zurich Open Repository and Archive) of the University of Zurich. The sponsor (LR) and the project leader (MR.G) will make the final decision on the publication of the results. The data that support the findings of this study are available on request from the corresponding author LT. The data are not publicly available due to privacy/ethical restrictions.

Trial registration number

NCT05112575; ClinicalTrials.gov.
Erector Spinae Plane Blocks for the Early Analgesia of Rib Fractures in Trauma (ESPEAR): protocol for a multicentre pilot randomised controlled trial with feasibility and embedded qualitative assessment
Authors: Hewson David W , Nightingale Jessica , Ogollah Reuben , Ollivere Benjamin J , Costa Matthew L , Craxford Simon , Bates Peter , Bedforth Nigel M
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Patients with rib fractures commonly experience significant acute pain and are at risk of hypoxia, retained secretions, respiratory failure and death. Effective analgesia improves these outcomes. There is widespread variation in analgesic treatments given to patients including oral, intravenous and epidural routes of administration. Erector spinae plane (ESP) blockade, a novel regional analgesic technique, may be effective, but high-quality evidence is lacking.

Methods and analysis

To determine if a definitive trial of ESP blockade in rib fractures is possible, we are conducting a multicentre, randomised controlled pilot study with feasibility and qualitative assessment. Fifty adult patients with rib fractures will be randomised in a 1:1 ratio to ESP blockade with multimodal analgesia or placebo ESP blockade with multimodal analgesia. Participants and outcome assessors will be blinded. The primary feasibility outcomes are recruitment rate, retention rate and trial acceptability assessed by interview.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the Oxford B Research Ethics Committee on 22 February 2022 (REC reference: 22/SC/0005). All participants will provide written consent. Trial results will be reported via peer review and to grant funders.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN49307616.
Randomised clinical trial of a manual therapy programme to reduce the evolution time of axillary web syndrome in women affected by breast cancer: study protocol
Authors: González Rubino Jesús Baltasar , Vinolo-Gil Maria Jesus , García Muñoz Cristina , Martín-Valero Rocío
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Breast cancer is the most common malignant tumour in women, with more than 2 million new cases annually worldwide. One of the most frequent and well-known surgical and post-actinic sequelae is post-mastectomy lymphoedema. The axillary web syndrome is another sequela that limits the functionality of the patient and delays the protocol time of administering cancer treatments; and in many cases, this sequela is misdiagnosed. This surgical sequela usually disappears spontaneously after the third month of appearance, but this implies a long period of discomfort and limitations for the patient, at the same time, it may delay the application of radiotherapy within the indicated protocol deadline (due to a need for body posture).

Methods and analysis

With the present quasi-experimental study, we intend to show the application of physiotherapy and stretching from the beginning of the appearance of the axillary cord, in a controlled and scheduled way by the physiotherapist. It is possible to reduce the time in which the lymphatic thrombus is present and, therefore, recover functionality and mobility, reduce pain and be able to apply treatments within the established deadline. We intend to apply this therapy into the intervention group and compare thrombus evolution time with the control group.

Ethics and dissemination

This trial has the approval of the Andalucía Ethics Committee (PEIBA code 1909-N1-21, reg. number 171.21).

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov Registry (NCT05115799).
‘What’s next?’ The journey from hospital to community engagement from the perspectives of adults following severe acquired brain injury: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Currie Suzanne , Douglas Jacinta , Winkler Di
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Community integration and social participation remain a challenge for many individuals following acquired brain injury (ABI) and the transition from hospital to home is a complex journey. It is important to conceptualise this transition from the perspective of people with ABI, to inform future research with the overall aim of improving the experience of community re-engagement and maintaining important relationships within social networks.

Methods and analysis

The methodology outlined by Arksey and O’Malley and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis: extension for Scoping Reviews will be used to guide the review. A comprehensive electronic database search will be conducted in MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, Embase and PsychINFO. The search will aim to locate only published, qualitative or mixed methods studies and will be limited to citations published in English, from January 2014 to the date of final search completion. Quality assessment using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme will be completed and reported.

Data extraction will include participant and study characteristics.

Finally, qualitative data from each citation, including participant quotes, will be extracted and thematic analysis will be completed to support conceptualisation of community participation from those who have experienced the transition to the community following discharge from hospital. Three individuals with lived experiences of ABI will be engaged as paid consultants to review and comment on the findings of the review.

Ethics and dissemination

It is intended that the findings from this review will be made available to relevant stakeholders through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations. This scoping review does not require an ethics application.
Conceptualisation and psychometric evaluation of positive psychological outcome measures used in adolescents and young adults living with HIV: a mixed scoping and systematic review protocol
Authors: Dambi Jermaine M , Cowan Frances M , Martin Faith , Sibanda Sharon , Simms Victoria , Willis Nicola , Bernays Sarah , Mavhu Webster
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Sub-Saharan Africa bears the greatest burden of HIV. Concomitant mental disorders are common, necessitating the integration of mental healthcare into routine HIV care. Consequently, it is necessary to holistically evaluate the mental health of adolescents and young adults living with HIV (AYALHIV, 10–24 years old) by measuring negative and positive psychological constructs (eg, anxiety and self-acceptance, respectively). There has been a proliferation of positive psychological outcome measures, but the evidence of their psychometric robustness is fragmented. This review, therefore, seeks to (1) identify positive psychological outcomes used in AYALHIV in sub-Saharan Africa and map the constructs onto corresponding measures and (2) critically appraise the psychometrics of the identified outcomes

Methods and analysis

This mixed review will be done in two parts. First, a scoping review will identify positive psychological outcomes and map them onto corresponding outcome measures. Subsequently, we will systematically evaluate the psychometric properties of the outcomes identified from the scoping review. Independent and blinded reviewers will search articles in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Africa-Wide Information, CINAHL, PsychINFO and Google Scholar from inception through 30 September 2022. Thereafter, separate independent reviewers will screen the retrieved articles. We will apply a narrative synthesis to map the key constructs emerging from the scoping review. For the systematic review, the risk of bias across studies will be evaluated using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) checklist. The quality of the psychometric properties will be rated using the COSMIN checklist and qualitatively synthesised using the modified Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation checklist.

Ethics and dissemination

No ethical approvals are needed. The mixed-review outputs will collectively inform the development, implementation and evaluation of bespoke interventions for AYALHIV. Review outcomes will be disseminated in a peer-reviewed journal, on social media and through policy briefs.

PROSPERO registration

CRD42022325172.
Distributed Clustering Approach by Apache Pyspark Based on SEER for Clinical Data
Authors: Ramesh R. , Judy M. V.
Published: September 2022

Data clustering is a thoroughly studied data mining issue. As the amount of information being analyzed grows exponentially, there are several problems with clustering diagnostic large datasets like the monitoring, microbiology, and end results (SEER) carcinoma feature sets. These traditional clustering methods are severely constrained in terms of speed, productivity, and adaptability. This paper summarizes the most modern distributed clustering algorithms, organized according to the computing platforms used to process vast volumes of data. The purpose of this work was to offer an optimized distributed clustering strategy for reducing the algorithm’s total execution time. We obtained, preprocessed, and analyzed clinical SEER data on liver cancer, respiratory cancer, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-related lymphoma, and lung cancer for large-scale data clustering analysis. Three major contributions and their effects were covered in this paper: To begin, three current Pyspark distributed clustering algorithms were evaluated on SEER clinical data using a simulated New York cancer dataset. Second, systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) model inference was done and described using three SEER cancer datasets. Third, employing lung cancer data, we suggested an optimized distributed bisecting [Formula: see text]-means method. We have shown the outcomes of our suggested optimized distributed clustering technique, demonstrating the performance enhancement.
GAAT: Group Adaptive Adversarial Training to Improve the Trade-Off Between Robustness and Accuracy
Authors: Qian Yaguan , Liang Xiaoyu , Kang Ming , Wang Bin , Gu Zhaoquan , Wang Xing , Wu Chunming
Published: September 2022

Adversarial training is by far one of the most effective methods to improve the robustness of deep neural networks against adversarial examples. However, the trade-off between robustness and accuracy is still a challenge in adversarial training. Previous methods used adversarial examples with a fixed perturbation budget or specific perturbation budgets for each example, which is inefficient in improving the trade-off and lacks the ability to control the trade-off flexibly. In this paper, we show that the largest element of logit, [Formula: see text], can roughly represent the minimum distance between an example and its neighboring decision boundary. Thus, we propose group adaptive adversarial training (GAAT) that divides the training dataset into several groups based on [Formula: see text] and develops a binary search algorithm to determine the group perturbation budgets for each group. Using the group perturbation budgets to perform adversarial training can fine-tune the trade-off between robustness and accuracy. Extensive experiments conducted on CIFAR-10 and ImageNet-30 show that our GAAT can achieve a more perfect trade-off than TRADES, MMA, and MART.
DECODING OF HEART–BRAIN RELATION BY COMPLEXITY-BASED ANALYSIS OF HEART RATE VARIABILITY (HRV) AND ELECTROENCEPHALOGRAM (EEG) SIGNALS
Authors: BABINI MOHAMMAD HOSSEIN , KULISH VLADIMIR V. , KREJCAR ONDREJ , NAMAZI HAMIDREZA
Published: September 2022

Since the brain controls heart activations, there should be a correlation between their activities in different conditions. This study investigates the correlation between heart and brain responses to olfactory stimulation. We employed fractal theory and sample entropy to evaluate the complexity of EEG signals and Heart Rate Variability (HRV) in the form of R–R time series. We applied four different pleasant odors with different molecular complexities to 13 participants and analyzed their EEG and ECG signals. The results demonstrated that the complexities of HRV and EEG signals are strongly correlated; a bigger alteration in the complexity of olfactory stimuli is mapped to a bigger alteration in the complexity of HRV and EEG signals. This investigation can be similarly done to examine the correlation between various organs and the brain by quantifying the complexity of their signals versus brain signals.
Hidden malware ratchets up cybersecurity risks
Authors: Greengard Samuel
Published: September 2022

Cybercriminals could be hiding malware payloads in places where commercial cybersecurity software is unable to detect it.
Data platforms and network effects
Authors: Cusumano Michael A.
Published: September 2022

How data-network effects create opportunities and inflate expectations.
Walk a mile in their shoes
Authors: Butler Jenna , Yeh Catherine
Published: September 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic through the lens of four tech workers.
Indoor Air Pollution and Health: Bridging Perspectives from Developing and Developed Countries
Authors: Pillarisetti Ajay , Ye Wenlu , Chowdhury Sourangsu
Published: September 2022

Much of the global population spends most of their time indoors; however, air pollution measurement, a proxy of exposure, occurs primarily outdoors. This fundamental disconnect between where the people are and where the measurements are made likely leads to misestimation of the true burden of air pollution on human health, which is already substantial, with exposure leading to approximately 6.7 million deaths yearly. In this review, we describe the two disparate but linked fields commonly referred to as indoor air pollution and household air pollution. Both fields focus on the measurement and characterization of exposures and subsequent health effects that occur primarily in the indoor environment. The former tends to focus on issues in the developed world, whereas the latter focuses on issues in low- and middle-income countries reliant on solid fuels, like wood, dung, coal, and crop residues, for basic household energy needs. Both lead to substantial exposures to air pollutants that are damaging to human health. We describe and contrast both contexts and provide potential topics for conversation between the disciplines.
Genetic ablation of the preptin-coding portion of Igf2 impairs pancreatic function in female mice
Authors: Buckels E.J. , Hsu H.-L. , Buchanan C.M. , Matthews B.G. , Lee K.L.
Published: September 2022

This is the first study to describe a model in which the preptin-coding portion of the Igf2 gene has been genetically ablated in mice. The mice do not show reduced size at birth associated with Igf2 knockout suggesting that IGF2 functionality is maintained, yet we demonstrate a change in the processing of mature Igf2. Female knockout mice have diminished glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, whereas the insulin response in males is not different to wild type.
Pericardial Tamponade following Asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Diagnostic Journey
Authors: Birner Christian , Gasche Matthias , Voisard Rainer , Neumann Christian
Published: September 2022

Background. Pericardial tamponade is a known life-threatening condition rarely reported in COVID-19 but has not been reported following asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection. Its pathomechanism is still elusive. Case Summary. We report the case of a 66-year-old man with progressive shortness of breath and leg swelling due to new-onset heart failure and pericardial tamponade following asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection. Ultrasound-guided placement of a pericardial drainage led to significant improvement of symptoms and revealed an exudative effusion. Throughout the diagnostic process, we were confronted with a systemic inflammatory syndrome suspicion of an induced autoimmune condition. After steroid pulse therapy and oral anticoagulation for subclavian vein thrombosis, the patient was discharged and followed in our outpatient clinic. Discussion. Patients with asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection are at risk for developing life-threatening complications. Induced autoimmune conditions could be a potential explanation for late-onset pericardial tamponade in this population. A multimodal imaging approach is crucial in the diagnosis and characterization of cardiac inflammation. An interdisciplinary approach is essential. Awareness of uncommon cardiac complications following a SARS-CoV-2 infection is crucial for the initial assessment and the appropriate treatment of these patients.
Study on Personalized Recommendation Algorithm of Online Educational Resources Based on Knowledge Association
Authors: Xu Ziqian , Jiang Sheng
Published: September 2022

In order to overcome the problems of low accuracy, low recommendation efficiency, and low user satisfaction of educational resources recommendation algorithm, this paper proposes a personalized recommendation algorithm for online educational resources based on knowledge association. Firstly, online education resources are collected according to association rules. Secondly, firefly algorithm is used to classify online education resources. Then, the vector space function is constructed to filter the classified online education resources. Finally, the correlation between knowledge points is calculated by knowledge association theory, and the knowledge with the highest user interest is selected as the target recommendation resource to realize the personalized recommendation of online education resources. The resource recommendation accuracy of this method can reach 97%, the recommendation time is less than 5.0 s, and users are more satisfied with it, indicating that its recommendation effect is good.
Effects of Earthquake on Behavior Characteristics of Fault Gouge in Time-History Analysis of Slope
Authors: Moon Seong-Woo , Kim Hyeong-Sin , Seo Yong-Seok
Published: September 2022

A time-history analysis, based on the finite element method, was performed to identify the behavior of a slope containing fault gouge during earthquakes. Input seismic waves were obtained from earthquake data measured in Korea, with five earthquakes (M3.0, M3.9, M5.1, M5.4, and M5.8) to analyse the magnitude effects. The acceleration effects indicate approximately 50%–110% residual shear strain depending on the acceleration fluctuation within the coda wave section after the maximum acceleration was reached. This indicates that the permanent deformation due to the earthquake will remain because the ground is an elastic-plastic material. The magnitude effects also indicate that both the maximum shear stress and strain increase simultaneously as the magnitude increases and as the maximum acceleration tends to increase with increasing magnitude. However, both the cumulative and maximum accelerations should be considered when assessing slope stability since both the maximum shear stress and strain are affected by these two accelerations. Analysis of the presence or absence of fault gouge indicates that the shear strain could be concentrated on fault gouge, which is easily deformed or destroyed by shear strain.
Performance Appraisal and Automatic Scoring System for College Counselors Based on Kmeans Clustering
Authors: Wang Zhichao , Tian Qing
Published: September 2022

The optimal solution is output as the result to the Kmeans algorithm as the initial clustering center, and the proposed linear distance model is used to complete the clustering. Combined with the theory of target management, focusing on the job requirements and responsibilities of the counselors, the counselors’ performance appraisal objectives were determined, the counselor performance appraisal system was established, and the first-level indicators and the second-level indicators and their weights were determined by using Del Illegal and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). This paper constructs a performance appraisal system for local undergraduate college counselors based on management by objectives, and has carried out a pilot implementation in a college. The behavior anchoring method is used to determine the scoring standards of each index, which solves the problem of inconsistent scoring standards for different assessment subjects in the past. In the assessment results, the assessment results of the three dimensions are independently evaluated by category. This paper has a certain practical significance and reference value for the optimization research of the counselor’s performance appraisal scheme under the background of institutional reform in a university.
Design and Implementation of a Medical Question and Answer System Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Hu Yun , Han Guokai , Liu Xintang , Li Hui , Xing Libao , Gu Yong , Zhou Zuojian , Li Haining
Published: September 2022

Medical services play a pivotal role in people’s lives and in the national economy. Although the number of healthcare facilities is currently growing every year, there are still major problems in terms of access and pressure on the flow of people. Therefore, there is an urgent need for complementary medical services to alleviate the flow of patients and their psychological burden and to enable them to receive timely medical advice. This article designs and implements a medical Q&A system based on deep learning. We took a retrieval-based approach, using crawler technology that has been manually reviewed to build the Q&A database, and the Seq2Seq algorithm and the TF-IDF model to build the answer generation model. The medical question and answer system developed enable effective Q&A and relevant medical advice to be given. The algorithm proposed in this paper can quickly provide users with accurate answers compared to conventional search methods in real datasets.
Fuzzy Ideals in Pseudo-Hoop Algebras
Authors: Alemayehu Teferi Getachew
Published: September 2022

In this study, fuzzy ideals in pseudo-hoop algebras are presented. Also, we investigate fuzzy congruences relations on pseudo-hoop algebras induced by fuzzy ideals. By using fuzzy ideals, we create the fuzzy quotient pseudo-hoop algebras and identify and demonstrate the one-to-one relationship between the set of all normal fuzzy ideals of a pseudo-hoop algebra

H

with conditions

p
  
D
N

and the set of all fuzzy congruences relation on

H

. Additionally, we investigate the relationship between fuzzy ideals and fuzzy filters in pseudo-hoop algebras by considering the set of complement elements of pseudo-hoop algebras. Lastly, we study fuzzy prime ideals and fuzzy

⊙

-prime ideals and their relation.
Long-Term Elevated Siglec-10 in Cerebral Spinal Fluid Heralds Better Prognosis for Patients with Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Gao Sen , Liu Xun-Zhi , Wu Ling-Yun , Peng Zheng , Chen Xiang-Xin , Wang Han , Lu Yue , Zhuang Zong , Tan Qian , Hang Chun-Hua , Li Wei
Published: September 2022

The presence of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is usually accompanied by excessive inflammatory response leading to damage of the central nervous system, and the sialic acid-binding Ig-like lectin 10 (Siglec-10) is a recognized factor being able to modify the inflammatory reaction. To investigate the potential role of Siglec-10 in aSAH, we collected the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of control (

n
=
11

) and aSAH (

n
=
14

) patients at separate times and measured the Siglec-10 concentration utilizing the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and evaluated the alterations of GOS and GCS during the disease process. In accordance with the STROBE statement, results showed that Siglec-10 in CSF rose quickly in response aSAH attack and then fell back to a slightly higher range above baseline, while it remained at relative high concentration and last longer in several severely injured patients. In general, higher Siglec-10 expression over a longer period usually indicated a better clinical prognosis. This prospective cohort study suggested that Siglec-10 could possibly be used as a biomarker for predicting prognosis of aSAH due to its ability to balance aSAH-induced nonsterile inflammation. Additionally, these findings might provide novel therapeutic perspectives for aSAH and other inflammation-related diseases.
Defect Size Evaluation of Cylindrical Roller Bearings with Compound Faults on the Inner and Outer Races
Authors: Chen Lihai , Tan Ao , Yang Lixiu , Pang Xiaoxu , Qiu Ming
Published: September 2022

Faults in cylindrical roller bearings are one of the main contributors to major faults in rotating machinery. The development of bearing fault diagnosis technologies is key to measuring the performance, status, and risk of failure of rolling-element bearings and has attracted extensive attention from industry and academia. When faults arise, they are often not a single fault but a compound fault, such as the simultaneous failure of the inner and outer races. In this paper, a method for evaluating the size of compound faults on the inner and outer races of cylindrical roller bearings is proposed. The dynamic modeling method developed by Gupta is employed to create a dynamic model for compound faults on the inner and outer rings of rolling bearings that allows the time domain signal of the vibration responses of compound faults on the inner and outer races to be obtained. Adopting an improved continuous harmonic wavelet packet decomposition method for the decomposition and reconstruction of the compound fault signal, we arrive at the corresponding single-point fault signal. The relationship between defect size and key metrics of the vibration, such as root mean square acceleration (RMS), peak, crest factor (CF), kurtosis, and level crossing rate (LCR), is investigated. The results show that there is a strong linear correlation between LCR and defect size, which can be used to evaluate the size of the defect. Experimental data for cylindrical roller bearings with compound faults on the inner and outer races are examined to verify the results.
Compressive Toughness Loss Rate and Softening Characteristic Analysis of Pasture Fiber-Rubber Powder Concrete
Authors: Wang Lei , Wang Hailong , Yang Hong
Published: September 2022

To develop the utilization of pasture fibers and waste tire rubber powder, the effect of different blending levels of modified pasture fibers (2 kg/m3, 3 kg/m3, and 4 kg/m3) on the loss rate of compressive toughness and softening characteristics of rubber powder concrete was studied. In addition, RapidAir457 system imaging analysis and microscopic electron microscope photo analysis were carried out to analyze the distribution pattern of modified pasture fibers and rubber powder in concrete. The results show that the peak load of concrete is higher than other pasture fiber dosing test groups when 3 kg/m3 is incorporated in 20 mesh and 60 mesh rubber powder. With the increase of pasture fiber content, the compressive toughness loss of MC60 group and MC80 group increased first and then decreased. The softening curve analysis showed that MC-3 was more capable of absorbing damage energy in the strain range of 0.0005–0.0009 than the MC-2 group. According to the RapidAir457 system imaging analysis, the pasture fibers form a web-like organization inside the concrete when the pasture fiber is mixed at 3 kg/m3.
Dynamic Task Offloading for NOMA-Enabled Mobile Edge Computing with Heterogeneous Networks
Authors: Li Kaixin , Xu Jiajie , Xing Hua , Chen Ying , Huang Jiwei
Published: September 2022

With the rapid development of the Internet of Things (IoT), more and more computation-intensive tasks are generated by IoT devices. Due to their own limitations, IoT devices cannot process all tasks locally, and some tasks need to be offloaded to edge servers for processing. In addition, nonorthogonal multiple access (NOMA) technology allows multiple IoT devices to share the same frequency resource. IoT devices can use NOMA technology to transmit data to increase the data transmission rate. In this article, we study the problem of NOMA-enabled dynamic task offloading in heterogeneous networks. We formulate a stochastic optimization problem to minimize system energy consumption. Using stochastic optimization techniques, we transform this problem into a deterministic optimization problem and decompose it into five sub-problems to solve. At the same time, we propose a NOMA-enabled dynamic task offloading (NDTO) algorithm. Then, we mathematically analyze the performance of the NDTO algorithm. We conduct a series of parameter analysis experiments and comparative experiments, and the results verify the performance of the NDTO algorithm.
Optimal Facial Feature Based Emotional Recognition Using Deep Learning Algorithm
Authors: Kumar Arora Tarun , Kumar Chaubey Pavan , Shree Raman Manju , Kumar Bhupendra , Nagesh Yagnam , Anjani P. K. , Ahmed Hamed M. S. , Hashmi Arshad , Balamuralitharan S. , Debtera Baru
Published: September 2022

Humans have traditionally found it simple to identify emotions from facial expressions, but it is far more difficult for a computer system to do the same. The social signal processing subfield of emotion recognition from facial expression is used in a wide range of contexts, particularly for human-computer interaction. Automatic emotion recognition has been the subject of numerous studies, most of which use a machine learning methodology. The recognition of simple emotions like anger, happiness, contempt, fear, sadness, and surprise, however, continues to be a difficult topic in computer vision. Deep learning has recently drawn increased attention as a solution to a variety of practical issues, including emotion recognition. In this study, we improved the convolutional neural network technique to identify 7 fundamental emotions and evaluated several preprocessing techniques to demonstrate how they affected the CNN performance. This research focuses on improving facial features and expressions based on emotional recognition. By identifying or recognising facial expressions that elicit human responses, it is possible for computers to make more accurate predictions about a person's mental state and to provide more tailored responses. As a result, we examine how a deep learning technique that employs a convolutional neural network might improve the detection of emotions based on facial features (CNN). Multiple facial expressions are included in our dataset, which consists of about 32,298 photos for testing and training. The preprocessing system aids in removing noise from the input image, and the pretraining phase aids in revealing face detection after noise removal, including feature extraction. As a result, the existing paper generates the classification of multiple facial reactions like the seven emotions of the facial acting coding system (FACS) without using the optimization technique, but our proposed paper reveals the same seven emotions of the facial acting coding system.
CD8+ Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocyte Abundance Is a Positive Prognostic Indicator in Nasopharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Shi Wei , Fijardo Mackenzie , Bruce Jeff P. , Su Jie , Xu Wei , Bell Rachel , Bissey Pierre-Antoine , Hui Angela B.Y. , Waldron John , Pugh Trevor J. , Yip Kenneth W. , Liu Fei-Fei
Published: September 2022

Purpose:

Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) are immune cell populations found within tumors, critical in the antigen-specific host immune response. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the prognostic significance of CD3+, CD4+, and CD8+ TILs in nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC).

Experimental Design:

Immune cell infiltration was quantified in NPC samples (n = 50) using RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) data based on rearranged T-cell receptor (TCR) reads and the Estimation of Stromal and Immune cells in malignant tumors using expression data (ESTIMATE) immune score tool. The differential abundances of TIL subset populations were also characterized through IHC staining of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded samples from a training cohort (n = 35), which was a subset of the RNA-seq cohort (n = 50).

Results:

In the RNA-seq cohort, patients with higher rearranged TCR reads experienced superior 5- and 10-year overall survival (OS; P < 0.001), and disease-free survival (DFS; P < 0.001). Similarly, patients with higher ESTIMATE immune scores experienced superior 5- and 10-year OS (P = 0.024) and DFS (P = 0.007). In the training cohort, high abundances of CD8+ TILs were significantly associated with improved 5- and 10-year OS (P = 0.003) and DFS (P = 0.005). These findings were corroborated in an independent validation cohort (n = 84), and combined analysis of the training and validation cohorts [n = 119 (35+84)], which further demonstrated improved 5- and 10-year survival in terms of locoregional control (P < 0.001) and distant metastasis (P = 0.03).

Conclusions:

Taken together, our study highlights the prognostic value of CD8+ TILs in NPC, and the potential of future investigations into cellular-based immunotherapies employing CD8+ lymphocytes.
Hyponatremia in Patients with Heart Failure beyond the Neurohormonal Activation Associated with Reduced Cardiac Output: A Holistic Approach
Authors: Christopoulou Eliza , Liamis George , Naka Katerina , Touloupis Panagiotis , Gkartzonikas Ilias , Florentin Matilda
Published: September 2022

Background: Heart failure (HF) is considered an epidemic disease with considerable morbidity, mortality, and immense healthcare costs. Electrolyte abnormalities are often encountered in patients with HF, posing a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for clinicians. Hyponatremia affects up to one-third of HF patients and represents an unfavorable prognostic factor. Summary: Low sodium levels in HF are mainly attributed to the neurohormonal activation secondary to decreased effective circulating volume. However, patients with HF often have several comorbidities which may cause or exacerbate the preexisting hyponatremia. Factors that provoke HF, such as alcohol overconsumption, may also be involved in hyponatremia development. Furthermore, drugs which are frequently prescribed to HF patients, especially diuretics, are potential culprits of hyponatremia and should always be addressed since their withdrawal may reverse hyponatremia. Despite the great prevalence and deleterious effects of hyponatremia in these patients, it is often overlooked and consequently undertreated. In this review, we present the mechanisms involved in the development of hyponatremia focusing on those besides neurohormonal activation. We also discuss the proper management of this electrolyte disorder which is frequently complex in patients with HF. Key Messages: Hyponatremia in patients with HF is not only the result of neurohormonal activation; several comorbidities and frequently used drugs should also be addressed. Hence, a holistic approach is required both for the diagnosis and optimal treatment.
A critical review of whole theory: Stationenlernen learning technique and German language learning outcomes
Authors: Wenno Eldaa Crystle , Karuna Kalvin , Serpara Henderika
Published: September 2022

This critical review aims to describe the integrity of paraphrasing the theory or references and scientific journals that become references. The contribution of this research is as a reference and input to develop the creativity of critical thinking of the quoters. The method used is listening and analyzing the journal's contents as a source of data; critically identifying the parts of the journal containing quotations, direct quotations, and paraphrasing of the theories being referenced. The results of the critical review show several weaknesses, including several quotes that are not accompanied by relevant data and references, errors in citing reference sources. In addition, quotations or paraphrases have paid attention to the integrity of meaning with several techniques, namely complete and partial paraphrasing techniques. Partial is divided into two; according to the research formulation, the theory is paraphrased and several points of the combined theory are paraphrased because they are closely related and complementary. This critical review implies that it is a follow-up study to analyze the advantages and disadvantages of a scientific article based on relevant theories, studies, and previous research results.
Academic writing centers and the teaching of academic writing at colleges: Literature review
Authors: Ginting Daniel , Barella Yusawinur
Published: September 2022

Although colleges have offered academic writing courses, many students still struggle with this writing ability. Their poor writing skills are also associated with a lack of teacher guidance The tasks given by teachers are sometimes beyond their capabilities. Students are not accustomed to writing long academic papers. As a result, they do not enjoy writing essays, and they are not confident in their writing skills. This research is intended to collect and analyze articles related to Academic Writing Courses and the teaching of academic writing at colleges. The design used is a literature review, articles are collected using search engines such as JStore, Academic One file, Sciencedirect, and Proquest. The criteria for the articles used are those published in 2008-2021. Based on the articles collected the result is that academic writing centers (AWC) does not guarantee better grades for the students. Instead, it is time to help them fulfill their needs: i) Becoming self-directed; ii) Independent writers; iii) Building the confidence of writers; and iv) Helping writers with advanced writing tasks.
Knowledge, skills, and attitudes of teachers in training critical thinking of elementary school students
Authors: Suratmi Suratmi , Sopandi Wahyu
Published: September 2022

Knowledge, skills, and attitudes of teachers in developing critical thinking skills are very much needed to train students' basic thinking skills. This descriptive quantitative study described the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of teachers in developing critical thinking skills in elementary school students. The data collection employed a questionnaire with a Likert scale. The questionnaire was distributed online using Google Form during teacher professional development training. Respondents in this study were 366 elementary school teachers spread across 23 provinces in Indonesia. The data obtained were analyzed descriptively and quantitatively. The results of this study indicated the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of teachers in developing critical thinking in elementary school students are a good category. Description knowledge, skills, and attitudes of a good teacher impact the designed learning process. However, this study only described teachers' knowledge, skills, and attitudes in developing critical thinking skills, which the basis for implementing learning in elementary schools. The application of critical thinking learning by elementary school teachers can be used for further research.
Implementation of e-commerce in improving the competitiveness of vocational secondary education student entrepreneurship products
Authors: Wahjusaputri Sintha , Nastiti Tashia Indah
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to identify problems, describe, analyze, and evaluate the use of e-commerce to increase the competitiveness of innovative and entrepreneurial products produced by students of State Vocational High School 3 South Tangerang, Banten province. This research had three main stages, namely the preparation stage, the implementation stage, and the evaluation stage. The research location was the State Vocational High School 3 South Tangerang, Banten province, Indonesia, due to the school being outstanding in the field of Motorcycle and Animation expertise. The resource persons and respondents in this study were teaching teachers and students in classes 10-12 majoring in culinary, automotive, and animation. Implementing e-commerce activities at the production unit of State Vocational High School 3 South Tangerang, has increased the image of the production unit of State Vocational High School 3 South Tangerang. This study was a descriptive qualitative with the questionnaire, interview, and practice method. This study revealed that the application of e-commerce using the Shopee seller marketplace provided significant benefits and impacts for the production unit of State Vocational High School 3 South Tangerang. When the production unit implemented e-commerce, sales turnover increases rapidly, and the number of consumers, as a means of promotion, ease of transaction did not need to meet directly with buyers and can expand the business. However, there were also several obstacles, like weak human resources, intense competition, and the emergence of plagiarism of ideas and products.