bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inequalities in excess premature mortality in England during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional analysis of cumulative excess mortality by area deprivation and ethnicity
Authors: Barnard Sharmani , Fryers Paul , Fitzpatrick Justine , Fox Sebastian , Waller Zachary , Baker Allan , Burton Paul , Newton John , Doyle Yvonne , Goldblatt Peter
Published: December 2021

Objectives

To examine magnitude of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on inequalities in premature mortality in England by deprivation and ethnicity.

Design

A statistical model to estimate increased mortality in population subgroups during the COVID-19 pandemic by comparing observed with expected mortality in each group based on trends over the previous 5 years.

Setting

Information on deaths registered in England since 2015 was used, including age, sex, area of residence and cause of death. Ethnicity was obtained from Hospital Episode Statistics records linked to death data.

Participants

Population study of England, including all 569 824 deaths from all causes registered between 21 March 2020 and 26 February 2021.

Main outcome measures

Excess mortality in each subgroup over and above the number expected based on trends in mortality in that group over the previous 5 years.

Results

The gradient in excess mortality by area deprivation was greater in the under 75s (the most deprived areas had 1.25 times as many deaths as expected, least deprived 1.14) than in all ages (most deprived had 1.24 times as many deaths as expected, least deprived 1.20). Among the black and Asian groups, all area deprivation quintiles had significantly larger excesses than white groups in the most deprived quintiles and there were no clear gradients across quintiles. Among the white group, only those in the most deprived quintile had more excess deaths than deaths directly involving COVID-19.

Conclusion

The COVID-19 pandemic has widened inequalities in premature mortality by area deprivation. Among those under 75, the direct and indirect effects of the pandemic on deaths have disproportionately impacted ethnic minority groups irrespective of area deprivation, and the white group the most deprived areas. Statistics limited to deaths directly involving COVID-19 understate the pandemic’s impact on inequalities by area deprivation and ethnic group at younger ages.
Multistakeholder perspectives on the strengthening and embedding of mandatory continuing medical education in Georgia: a qualitative study
Authors: Ruadze Ekaterine , Cherkezishvili Ekaterine , Roma Elisa , Walsh Kieran , Gabunia Tamar , Gamkrelidze Amiran
Published: December 2021

Objective

Continuing medical education (CME) is a vital component of health systems. Setting up a CME system is a complex task, requiring involvement of stakeholders including educators, learners, institutions and policy makers. The aim of the study was to conduct qualitative research involving multiple stakeholders to explore the perceived effectiveness and shortcomings of the CME system in Georgia, its place in the health system and potential means of improving it.

Design

This is a qualitative study. All data were collected using semistructured individual interviews. The questions were derived from the relevant literature. Data analysis was conducted using comparative strategy.

Participants

We interviewed individuals from CME providers, medical establishments, the professional development board (PDB), and the Regulatory Agency for Medical and Pharmaceutical Activities. We thus interviewed 23 people (11 people from CME providers, 8 people from medical establishments, 3 PDB members and 1 person from Legal Entity under Public Law Regulatory Agency for Medical and Pharmaceutical Activities).

Results

Georgia has had experience of mandatory CME in the past, which had been criticised for its poor quality and bureaucratic processes. CME is viewed as an essential developmental process for medical professionals, the outcome of which is to deliver high-quality medical care. Our interviewees identified a clear need for high-quality CME courses. However, significant challenges that need to be overcome include financial barriers, doctors’ attitudes to CME, a lack of CME courses in all medical specialties and relatively weak professional associations.

Conclusion

CME is widely recognised as an essential pillar in providing quality medical care. Establishing high-quality CME requires a strategic and holistic approach. In order to ensure the sustainable and effective implementation of the CME process, we need to take into account stakeholders’ interests and expectations, the socioeconomic status and development of the country, and past experiences of all relevant individuals and organisations.
Factors associated with the timely initiation of antenatal care: findings from a cross-sectional study in Northern Bangladesh
Authors: Sarker Bidhan Krishna , Rahman Tawhidur , Rahman Tanjina , Rahman Musfikur
Published: December 2021

Objective

This paper explored the factors that influence the timely initiation of antenatal care (ANC) in Bangladesh.

Design

This was a cross-sectional survey.

Setting

This study conducted in two rural subdistricts and one urban area from three Northern districts of Bangladesh from August to November 2016.

Participants

Women who had a live birth in the last 1 year prior to data collection were enrolled for this study. In each study area, around 900 women were interviewed, and finally, we completed 2731 interviews.

Primary outcome measures

The primary outcome was timely first ANC from a Medically Trained Provider (MTP).

Results

About 43% of pregnancies were detected at their earliest time. The majority of participants (82%) received at least one ANC from an MTP. Only 11% received timely first ANC from an MTP as per the WHO FANC model. The women who detected pregnancy earlier were more likely (adj.OR 1.99, 95% CI 1.31 to 3.01) to receive the timely first ANC. The urban women were more likely (adj.OR 1.78, 95% CI 1.13 to 2.80) to receive the timely first ANC from an MTP than those of the rural women. Besides, their husbands’ educational status (adj.OR 1.61, 95% CI 1.0 to 2.60) was significantly associated with the timely first ANC.

Conclusion

Apart from sociodemographic factors, early pregnancy detection was strongly associated with the timely first ANC visit. Timely initiation of ANC is an opportunity to adhere to all the WHO recommended timely ANC visits for a pregnant woman. The findings suggest maternal, neonatal, and child health programmes to focus on the early detection of pregnancy to ensure universal ANC coverage and its timeliness.
Adequacy and timeliness of antenatal care visits among Ethiopian women: a community-based panel study
Authors: Shiferaw Kasiye , Mengistie Bezatu , Gobena Tesfaye , Dheresa Merga , Seme Assefa
Published: December 2021

Objectives

The purposes of the study are; (A) to identify whether Ethiopian women’s antenatal care (ANC) visits are adequate and timely and (B) to explore factors that determine these.

Design

Panel study design.

Setting

Ethiopia.

Participants

A total of 2855 women nested within 217 enumeration areas.

Primary outcome measures

Adequacy and timeliness of ANC visits.

Results

Of all the 2855 respondents, 65% had made an ANC visit once, while 26.8% initiated ANC visits in a timely way and 43.3% attended adequate ANC visits. Rural residence (adjusted OR (AOR)=0.55, 95% CI: 0.36 to 0.84), attending higher level of education (AOR=2.64, 95% CI: 1.47 to 4.77), being multipara (AOR=0.53, 95% CI: 0.32 to 0.89) and encouragement by partners to attend clinic for ANC (AOR=1.98, 95% CI: 1.14 to 3.44) were significantly associated with timeliness of ANC visit. Similarly, residing in rural areas (AOR=0.20, 95% CI: 0.12 to 0.35), attending higher level of education (AOR=2.96, 95% CI: 1.38 to 6.15), encouragement by partners to attend clinic for ANC (AOR=2.11, 95% CI: 1.31 to 3.40) and timeliness of ANC visit (AOR=4.59, 95% CI: 2.93 to 7.21) were significantly associated with adequacy of ANC visits.

Conclusions

A quarter of the pregnant women started ANC visits during the first trimester and nearly half attended adequate ANC visits with wider disparities across regions of their origin and their background characteristics. Concerted efforts on tailored interventions for rural residents, female education and partner involvement are recommended for early and adequate ANC visit(s).
Using quality improvement methodology and tools to reduce patient wait time in a paediatric subspecialty rheumatology clinic
Authors: Garay Bayardo , Erlanson Denise , Binstadt Bryce A , Correll Colleen K , Fitzsimmons Nora , Hobday Patricia M , Hudson Allison , Mahmud Shawn , Riskalla Mona M , Kramer Sara , Xiong Sheng , Vehe Richard K , Bullock Danielle R
Published: December 2021

Our paediatric rheumatology clinic has experienced inefficient patient flow. Our aim was to reduce mean wait time and minimise variation for patients. Baseline data showed that most waiting occurs after a patient has been roomed, while waiting for the physician. Wait time was not associated with a patient’s age, time of day, day of the week or individual physician. We implemented a checkout sheet and staggered start times. After a series of plan–do–study–act cycles, we observed an initial 26% reduction in the variation of wait time and a final 17% reduction in the mean wait time. There was no impact on patient–physician contact time. Overall, we demonstrate how process improvement methodology and tools were used to reduce patient wait time in our clinic, adding to the body of literature on process improvement in an ambulatory setting.
Plant exposure to glyphosate-based herbicides and how this might alter plant physiological and structural processes
Authors: Freitas-Silva Larisse de , Araújo Hugo Humberto , Meireles Camila Santos , Silva Luzimar Campos da
Published: December 2021

Chemical weed control is essential to ensure high levels of productivity in agricultural areas, and glyphosate-based herbicides (GBHs) are the most widely used herbicides on a global scale. Glyphosate-based herbicides inhibit the 5-enolpyruvyl-shikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS) enzyme, which impairs the shikimate pathway and often leads to plant death. However, indirect effects of GBHs on plant physiology can also lead to plant death. The objectives of this review are to discuss the biochemical, physiological, and structural changes that GBH application produces in plant species, in addition to inhibiting EPSPS (EC 2.5.1.19), and to reveal how these changes contribute to plant death. We conclude that GBHs promote plant death not only through EPSPS inhibition but also through biochemical, physiological, and structural changes. Some changes are recurrent and can be used as biomarkers of GBH sensitivity, which can contribute to future works that monitor the presence of these herbicides in plant communities near agricultural areas.
Spectral triples on irreversible C∗-dynamical systems
Authors: Aiello Valeriano , Guido Daniele , Isola Tommaso
Published: December 2021

Given a spectral triple on a [Formula: see text]-algebra [Formula: see text] together with a unital injective endomorphism [Formula: see text], the problem of defining a suitable crossed product [Formula: see text]-algebra endowed with a spectral triple is addressed. The proposed construction is mainly based on the works of Cuntz and [A. Hawkins, A. Skalski, S. White and J. Zacharias, On spectral triples on crossed products arising from equicontinuous actions, Math. Scand. 113(2) (2013) 262–291], and on our previous papers [V. Aiello, D. Guido and T. Isola, Spectral triples for noncommutative solenoidal spaces from self-coverings, J. Math. Anal. Appl. 448(2) (2017) 1378–1412; V. Aiello, D. Guido and T. Isola, A spectral triple for a solenoid based on the Sierpinski gasket, SIGMA Symmetry Integrability Geom. Methods Appl. 17(20) (2021) 21]. The embedding of [Formula: see text] in [Formula: see text] can be considered as the dual form of a covering projection between noncommutative spaces. A main assumption is the expansiveness of the endomorphism, which takes the form of the local isometricity of the covering projection, and is expressed via the compatibility of the Lip-norms on [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text].
Equivariant K-stability under finite group action
Authors: Liu Yuchen , Zhu Ziwen
Published: December 2021

We show that [Formula: see text]-equivariant K-semistability (respectively, [Formula: see text]-equivariant K-polystability) implies K-semistability (respectively, K-polystability) for log Fano pairs with klt singularities when [Formula: see text] is a finite group.
Higgs mode in (2 + 1)-dimensional O(2) model
Authors: Yang Ji-Chong , Shi Yu
Published: December 2021

In this paper, we investigate the spectral functions of the Higgs mode in [Formula: see text] model, which can be experimentally realized in a two-dimensional Bose gas. Zero temperature limit is considered. Our calculation fully includes the 2-loop contributions. Peaks show up in the spectral functions of both the longitudinal and the scalar susceptibilities. Thus, this model cannot explain the disappearance of the response at the weak interaction limit. Neither it can explain the similarity between the longitudinal and the scalar susceptibilities in the visibility of the Higgs mode. A possible lower peak at about [Formula: see text] is also noted.
Identifying non-pseudo-alternating knots by using the free factor property of minimal genus Seifert surfaces
Authors: Himeno Keisuke , Teragaito Masakazu
Published: December 2021

Pseudo-alternating knots and links are defined constructively via their Seifert surfaces. By performing Murasugi sums of primitive flat surfaces, such a knot or link is obtained as the boundary of the resulting surface. Conversely, it is hard to determine whether a given knot or link is pseudo-alternating or not. A major difficulty is the lack of criteria to recognize whether a given Seifert surface is decomposable as a Murasugi sum.

In this paper, we propose a new idea to identify non-pseudo-alternating knots. Combining with the uniqueness of minimal genus Seifert surface obtained through sutured manifold theory, we demonstrate that two infinite classes of pretzel knots are not pseudo-alternating.
The Stackelberg Games of Water Extraction with Myopic Agents
Authors: Jean-Marie Alain , Tidball Mabel , Bucarey López Víctor
Published: December 2021

We consider a discrete-time, infinite-horizon dynamic game of groundwater extraction. A Water Agency charges an extraction cost to water users and controls the marginal extraction cost so that it depends not only on the level of groundwater but also on total water extraction (through a parameter [Formula: see text] that represents the degree of strategic interactions between water users) and on rainfall (through parameter [Formula: see text]). The water users are selfish and myopic, and the goal of the agency is to give them incentives so as to improve their total discounted welfare. We look at this problem in several situations. In the first situation, the parameters [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are considered to be fixed over time. The first result shows that when the Water Agency is patient (the discount factor tends to 1), the optimal marginal extraction cost asks for strategic interactions between agents. The contrary holds for a discount factor near 0. In a second situation, we look at the dynamic Stackelberg game where the Agency decides at each time what cost parameter they must announce. We study theoretically and numerically the solution to this problem. Simulations illustrate the possibility that threshold policies are good candidates for optimal policies.
A study of a family of monomial ideals
Authors: Hoffman J. William , Wang Haohao
Published: December 2021

In this paper, we study a family of rational monomial parametrizations. We investigate a few structural properties related to the corresponding monomial ideal J generated by the parametrization. We first find the implicit equation of the closure of the image of the parametrization. Then we provide a minimal graded free resolution of the monomial ideal J, and describe the minimal graded free resolution of the symmetric algebra of J. Finally, we provide a method to compute the defining equations of the Rees algebra of J using three moving planes that follow the parametrization.
EFFECT OF LEADERSHIP ON BMI AND COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE OF SMES
Authors: KAFETZOPOULOS DIMITRIOS , GOTZAMANI KATERINA
Published: December 2021

This study investigated the relationships between transformational leadership (TL), entrepreneurial leadership (EL), business model innovation (BMI) and competitive advantage, as well as the role of environmental uncertainty in these relationships. The importance of BMI and leadership style for the firms and the gaps identified in literature motivated the need for this paper. Previous literature has not fully explained in detail the antecedents of BMI or how BMI improves competitive advantage of organisations. Thus, an empirical model was used to analyse data gathered from a survey of 474 small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from several sectors in Greece. The findings reveal the contribution of leadership styles on BMI, the direct contribution of TL and EL on competitive advantage, as well as the contribution of BMI in competitive advantage in all responding SMEs, those SMEs with low scores of business environmental uncertainty and those SMEs with high scores of business environmental uncertainty.
New Optical Method for the Sucrose Solution Measurement Based on Fano Resonance
Authors: Zhu Jun , Ren Yihong
Published: December 2021

We propose a new method to determine the concentration of a sucrose solution based on Fano resonance, demonstrate that the [Formula: see text]-shaped resonator and rectangular resonator structures can realize the Fano resonance, observe higher sensitivity up to 2142 nm/RIU, and use the structure to measure the concentration of a sucrose solution. This work shows that the Fano resonance wavelength removed to longer wavelengths as the concentration of the solution increased, and the resolution of solution concentration is [Formula: see text], which can be used for measuring the concentration of solutions other than sucrose. This research is an important first step towards creating the industrial application of photon properties to extend photon polariton applications throughout the infrared.
Spatial Heterogeneity of China’s Environmental Regulation on Industrial Pollution: Evidence from a Top–Down Environmental Enforcement Action
Authors: LI Yuhong
Published: December 2021

To obtain precise information about enterprises’ pollution control and take corresponding environmental protection measures is the key to preventing and controlling industrial pollution. Taking the lead–acid battery industry as an example, this paper employs data from the Environmental Enforcement Action to analyze the urban–rural and inter-provincial distributions of pollution-intensive enterprises and to quantitatively verify the spatial differences in China’s environmental regulation on industrial pollution. The study finds that lead–acid battery manufacturing enterprises are mainly located in rural areas instead of urban areas; most pollution-intensive firms located in industrial parks, especially those approved by governments below the provincial level. The multivariate logistic model analysis finds that environmental regulation in urban districts is more strict than that in towns and villages, while the suburban areas are the laxest; environmental regulation in national-level development zones is more strict than that in provincial-level development zones, while zones below the provincial level are the laxest. In general, the environmental regulation is stricter in urban areas than in rural areas, and stricter in clustered space than in scattered space, while most inter-provincial environmental regulations have no significant differences. Local governments should effectively allocate conventional environmental law enforcement resources and shift the focus of law enforcement downwards to parks below the provincial level, and on suburbs and townships.
Complexity of Shift Bribery in Committee Elections
Authors: Bredereck Robert , Faliszewski Piotr , Niedermeier Rolf , Talmon Nimrod
Published: December 2021

Given an election, a preferred candidate 
p
, and a budget, the S
HIFT
B
RIBERY
problem asks whether 
p
can win the election after shifting 
p
higher in some voters’ preference orders. Of course, shifting comes at a price (depending on the voter and on the extent of the shift) and one must not exceed the given budget. We study the (parameterized) computational complexity of S
HIFT
B
RIBERY
for multiwinner voting rules where winning the election means to be part of some winning committee. We focus on the well-established SNTV, Bloc,
k
-Borda, and Chamberlin-Courant rules, as well as on approximate variants of the Chamberlin-Courant rule. We show that S
HIFT
B
RIBERY
tends to be harder in the multiwinner setting than in the single-winner one by showing settings where S
HIFT
B
RIBERY
is computationally easy in the single-winner cases, but is hard (and hard to approximate) in the multiwinner ones.
The Almond (Prunus dulcis): Chemical Properties, Utilization, and Valorization of Coproducts
Authors: Tomishima Haruka , Luo Kathleen , Mitchell Alyson E.
Published: December 2021

Almonds ( Prunus dulcis) are one of the most consumed tree-nuts worldwide, with commercial production in arid environments such as California, Spain, and Australia. The high consumption of almonds is partly due to their versatile usage in products such as gluten-free flour and dairy alternatives as well as them being a source of protein in vegetarian diets. They contain high concentrations of health-promoting compounds such as Vitamin E and have demonstrated benefits for reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and improving vascular health. In addition, almonds are the least allergenic tree nut and contain minute quantities of cyanogenic glycosides. Production has increased significantly in the past two decades with 3.12 billion pounds of kernel meat produced in California alone in 2020 ( USDA 2021 ), leading to a new emphasis on the valorization of the coproducts (e.g., hulls, shells, skins, and blanch water). This article presents a review of the chemical composition of almond kernels (e.g., macro and micronutrients, phenolic compounds, cyanogenic glycosides, and allergens) and the current research exploring the valorization of almond coproducts.
A remote laboratory course on experimental human physiology using wearable technology
Authors: Mayerhofer Patrick , Carter James , Donelan J. Maxwell
Published: December 2021

To help educators deliver their physiology laboratory courses remotely, we developed an inexpensive, customizable hardware kit along with freely available teaching resources. We based the course design on four principles that should allow students to conduct insightful experiments on different physiological systems. First, the experimental setup should not be constrained to laboratory environments. Second, students should be able to take this course without prior coding and electronics experience. Third, the hardware kit should be relatively inexpensive, and all other resources should be freely available. Fourth, all resources should be customizable for educators. The hardware kit consists of commercially available electronic components, with a microcontroller as its hub (Arduino friendly). All measurement systems can be assembled without soldering. The hardware kit is cost-effective (approximately the cost of a textbook) and can be customized depending upon instructional needs. All software is freely available, and we share all necessary codes in open-access online repositories for simple use and customizability. All lab manuals and additional video tutorials are also freely available online and customizable. In our particular course, we have weekly asynchronous physiology lectures and one synchronous laboratory session, where students can get help with their equipment. In this article, we only focus on the novel and open-source laboratory part of the course. The laboratory includes four units [data acquisition, ECG, electromyography (EMG), activity classification] and one final project. It is our intent that these resources will allow other educators to rapidly implement their own remote physiology laboratories or to extend our work into other pedagogical applications of wearable technology.
Exercise reduces the protein abundance of TXNIP and its interacting partner REDD1 in skeletal muscle: potential role for a PKA-mediated mechanism
Authors: Chaves Alec B. , Miranda Edwin R. , Mey Jacob T. , Blackburn Brian K. , Fuller Kelly N. Z. , Stearns Blaise , Ludlow Andrew , Williamson David L. , Houmard Joseph A. , Haus Jacob M.
Published: December 2021

Aerobic exercise is an effective tool in the prevention and treatment of several chronic metabolic diseases. However, the mechanisms through which these benefits are conferred have yet to be fully elucidated. Our data reveal a novel effect of aerobic exercise on reducing the protein expression of molecular targets that negatively impact redox and insulin/growth signaling in skeletal muscle. These findings contribute to the expanding repository of molecular signatures provoked by aerobic exercise.
Resistance-exercise training attenuates LPS-induced astrocyte remodeling and neuroinflammatory cytokine expression in female Wistar rats
Authors: Kelty Taylor J. , Mao Xuansong , Kerr Nathan R. , Childs Thomas E. , Ruegsegger Gregory N. , Booth Frank W.
Published: December 2021

To further elucidate the known cognitive health benefits from resistance-exercise training, we tested if resistance-exercise training in rats would attenuate lipopolysaccharide-induced neuroinflammation. Our data demonstrated that resistance training had an anti-inflammatory effect in the brain as LPS-induced neuroinflammatory cytokine expression and reactive astrocytic remodeling were reduced in the dentate gyrus after 3 wk of progressive ladder climbing.
The effect of local passive heating on skeletal muscle histamine concentration: implications for exercise-induced histamine release
Authors: Mangum Joshua E. , Needham Karen Wiedenfeld , Sieck Dylan C. , Ely Matthew R. , Larson Emily A. , Peck Mairin C. , Minson Christopher T. , Halliwill John R.
Published: December 2021

The “exercise signal” that triggers histamine release within active skeletal muscle during aerobic exercise is unknown. By mimicking the magnitude and time course of increasing skeletal muscle temperature observed during aerobic exercise, we demonstrate that part of the exercise-induced rise in histamine is explained by a thermal effect, with in vitro experiments suggesting this is most likely via de novo histamine formation. This thermal effect may be important in generating positive adaptations to exercise training.
Medical Image Three-Dimensional Simulation Technology in Hospital Clinical Practice
Authors: Wang Pengyuan , Li Jie
Published: December 2021

We performed three-dimensional reconstruction of facial CT scan images of patients with mandibular angle hypertrophy to explore the related factors of mandibular angle hypertrophy. At the same time, the article uses the results of three-dimensional reconstruction to simulate the clinical operation and obtain the final operation method. It was found that all patients were able to obtain the proper surgical plan from the three-dimensional reconstructed images and can get the hypertrophy factor of the mandibular angle. For this reason, we conclude that computer reconstruction simulation technology can obtain the tissue changes before and after osteotomy of mandibular angle hypertrophy and get the cause of hypertrophy. Three-dimensional reconstruction simulation technology is the best auxiliary diagnosis plan for the selection of mandibular angle surgery.
Effect of Electromyographic Biofeedback Therapy on Muscle Strength Recovery in Children with Guillain–Barré Syndrome
Authors: Liu Qianqian , Xue Jianhua , Zhao Pingping , Ling Yue , Liu Suzhe , Du Yakun , Han Ning , Liu Mingxia , Di Wei
Published: December 2021

GBS, as an immune-mediated acute inflammatory peripheral neuropathy (Tan and Halpin et al.), with the characteristics of acute onset and rapid progression, is mainly manifested with damages in nerve root and peripheral nerve. The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of electromyographic biofeedback therapy on muscle strength recovery in children with Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS). A total of 62 GBS children patients admitted to our hospital from June 2014 to December 2018 were selected and divided into control group (n = 30) and experimental group (n = 32) according to the order of admission. The children patients in the control group received physical therapy combined with occupational therapy (PT + OT), while based on the treatment in the control group, the experimental group children patients were treated with electromyographic biofeedback therapy. After that, the recovery of nerve and muscle at different time points, muscle strength score, gross motor function measure (GMFM) score, and Barthel index (BI) score of the children patients before and after treatment were compared between the two groups. There were no significant differences in the recovery of nerve and muscle of the children patients between the two groups at T0 and T1 (

P

 > 0.05), and the recovery of nerve and muscle of the children patients in the experimental group was significantly better than that in the control group at T2, T3, and T4 (P < 0.001); the muscle strength score, GMFM score, and BI score of the children patients in the experimental group were significantly better than those in the control group after treatment (

P

 < 0.001). The application of electromyographic biofeedback therapy for the treatment of GBS can effectively relieve clinical symptoms, promote rapid recovery, and improve treatment efficacy in children patients, which is worthy of application and promotion.
Posterior Dynamic Stabilization with Limited Rediscectomy for Recurrent Lumbar Disc Herniation
Authors: Luo Lei , Zhao Chen , Li Pei , Liu Liehua , Zhou Qiang , Luo Fei , Liang Lichuan
Published: December 2021

Objective. Recurrent lumbar disc herniation (RLDH) is the most common cause of sciatica after primary discectomy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of transpedicular dynamic stabilization (TDS) combined with limited rediscectomy in the treatment of single-level RLDH. Methods. We retrospectively evaluated a consecutive series of 24 middle-aged patients who underwent TDS (Dynesys system) combined with limited rediscectomy (i.e., removing only extruded or loose disc fragments) for single-level Carragee type II and type IV RLDH between April 2012 and September 2017. Clinical results were evaluated with visual analog scale (VAS) for leg and low back pain, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores, and complications. Imaging data include lumbar segment motion and intervertebral height. Results. The mean follow-up period was 38 months. The VAS and ODI scores were significantly improved at the last follow-up. The average range of motion (ROM) at the stabilized segment was 6.4° before surgery and 4.2° at the last follow-up, with a 78.6% mean preservation (

P

 < 0.05). Intervertebral height at the stabilized segment decreased slightly after surgery (

P

 < 0.05). However, there was no further decline at the last follow-up. There were no cases of reherniation, screw loosening, or segmental instability. Conclusions. TDS combined with limited rediscectomy resulted in an effective procedure in middle-aged patients with Carragee type II and type IV RLDH. It was able to stabilize the operated segment with partial motion preservation. Moreover, it could maintain disc height and decrease the risk of recurrence in patients with a large posterior annular defect.
Study of the Catalytic Activity of the Compounds Hydrotalcite Type Treated by Microwave in the Self-Condensation of Acetone
Authors: Houssaini Jamal , Naciri Bennani Mohammed , Ziyat Hamid , Arhzaf Said , Qabaqous O. , Amhoud Abdellatid
Published: December 2021

The self-condensation reaction of acetone, producing diacetone alcohol (DAA), is of great industrial importance. It was used to study the catalytic activity of Mg-Al catalysts synthesized by the coprecipitation method. For this purpose, we synthesized Mg-Al based hydrotalcite with a molar ratio of 3, obtained either after conventional heating or after microwave irradiation with of 100 W for three minutes. Structural and chemical properties of the obtained catalysts were characterized, using different techniques: X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), equipped with energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), and specific surface area of the catalysts were determined by the methylene blue (MB) adsorption method. Also, these catalysts were tested in the self-condensation reaction of acetone at 273 K in the liquid phase without solvent, a reaction which requires very high catalytic activity. The microwave treatment improves the catalyst activity, and the conversion of acetone to diacetone alcohol increases from 13.2 to 18.3% after 8 h of reaction. Moreover, the microwave-treated hydrotalcite catalyst, calcined at 723 K and rehydrated under a flow of N2, is the most active and gives conversion of acetone of 52% under the same reaction conditions.
Numerical Simulation of Mechanical Characteristics of Roadway Surrounding Rock under Dynamic and Static Loading
Authors: Jia Ce , Li Sheng , Fan Chaojun , Tang Jinbao
Published: December 2021

Mechanical characteristics of roadway surrounding rock under different stress wave disturbances are the key to design roadway supporting scheme. In this study, the 2802 transportation roadway in Zhangcun Coal Mine is selected as the engineering background. The distribution of stress, displacement, and plastic zone in surrounding rock under the impact of different stress waves is studied. Results show that the stress and displacement of the roof, floor, and coal walls present fluctuating change with time during the stress wave loading process. With the increase of disturbing intensity of stress wave, the resistance ability for stress wave disturbance of the roof is lower than that of the floor, while the resistance ability of two sides is the same. The volume of plastic zone in roadway surrounding rock was calculated by the self‐compiled FISH code. The relationship between the plastic zone volume and the stress wave disturbing intensity in different states is explored. The cubic polynomial relationship between the volume and the disturbing intensity in the state of shear_past and tension_past is obtained. Under the simulated condition, the disturbing intensity of stress wave has the greatest influence on the increase of shear_past volume when it equals 11 MPa. While the disturbing intensity of stress wave has the greatest influence on the increase of tension_past volume, it equals 7 MPa. Meanwhile, the relation between stress wave disturbing intensity and surrounding rock stress and displacement is obtained respectively. The achievements provide a theoretical base for roadway surrounding rock support under dynamic and static loading.
Deep Learning in the Classification of Stage of Liver Fibrosis in Chronic Hepatitis B with Magnetic Resonance ADC Images
Authors: Zhu Ziquan , Lv Daoyan , Zhang Xin , Wang Shui-Hua , Zhu Guijuan
Published: December 2021

Liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis B is the pathological repair response of the liver to chronic injury, which is a key step in the development of various chronic liver diseases to cirrhosis and an important link affecting the prognosis of chronic liver diseases. The further development of liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis B can lead to the disorder of hepatic lobule structure, nodular regeneration of hepatocytes, formation of a pseudolobular structure, namely, cirrhosis, clinical manifestations of liver dysfunction, and portal hypertension. So far, the diagnosis of liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis B has been made manually by doctors. However, this is very subjective and boring for doctors. Doctors are likely to be interfered with by external factors, such as fatigue and lack of sleep. This paper proposed a 5-layer deep convolution neural network structure for the automatic classification of liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis B. In the 5-layer deep convolution neural network structure, there were three convolution layers and two fully connected layers, and each convolution layer was connected with a pooling layer. 123 ADC images were collected, and the following results were obtained: the accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, precision, F1, MCC, and FMI were 88.13% ± 1.47%, 81.45% ± 3.69%, 91.12% ± 1.72%, 80.49% ± 2.94%, 80.90% ± 2.39%, 72.36% ± 3.39%, and 80.94% ± 2.37%, respectively.
Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infections and Associated Risk Factors among Pregnant Women Attending Prenatal Care in the Northwestern Ethiopia
Authors: Alula Gebre Ayanaw , Munshea Abaineh , Nibret Endalkachew
Published: December 2021

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are the common health problems in developing countries with low socioeconomic and poor living conditions. IPIs affect millions of pregnant women worldwide and may lead to adverse maternal and fetal effects. The present study was aimed at determining the prevalence and associated risk factors of IPIs among pregnant women in Ethiopia. A hospital‐based cross‐sectional study involving 384 pregnant women was conducted from November 2018 to March 2019. Relevant information on potential risk factors associated with IPIs was gathered using a semistructured questionnaire. Stool samples were collected and examined using wet mount and formol‐ether concentration techniques. Logistic regression was used to evaluate the possible association between dependent and independent variables. The overall prevalence of IPIs was 36.7%. Seven species of parasites were identified. The most prevalent intestinal protozoan parasite identified was Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (9.6%) followed by Giardia intestinalis (8.9%). The predominant helminth parasite identified was Ascaris lumbricoides (8.6%), followed by hookworm (5.2%), Taenia spp. (3.6%), Strongyloides stercoralis (1.3%), and Schistosoma mansoni (1.04%). Six pregnant women (1.56%) had infection by two parasite species. The odds of IPIs were higher among illiterates (AOR = 4.63), lowest monthly income earners (AOR = 3.49), primigravida (pregnant for the first time) (AOR = 2.04), those who used unboiled well/stream/river water for drinking (AOR = 14.55), ate soil (AOR = 2.32), and consumed raw vegetables (AOR = 1.91). The prevalence of IPIs in the study subjects was substantially high. Thus, screening of the women for IPIs and providing health education during their antenatal care (ANC) visit are recommended to prevent possible adverse maternal and fetal effects resulting from these infections.
Prognostic Analysis of Different Metastatic Patterns in Invasive Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasm: A Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Database Analysis
Authors: Zhou Chen , Liu Zhiqiang , Zhou Yingke , Ren Dianyun , Liu Kun , Qin Gengdu , Zhang Huan , Liang Xueyi , Gou Shanmiao , Wu Heshui
Published: December 2021

Objective. To evaluate the impacts of different metastatic patterns on the prognosis of patients with invasive intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN). Materials and Methods. All patients who were diagnosed with invasive IPMN in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results SEER database (2010–2015) were included in this study. They were grouped according to different metastatic patterns. Kaplan–Meier analysis and log-rank test were used for the comparison of their survival rates. The hazard ratio (HR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was analyzed using the Cox proportional-hazards model. Results. A total of 2264 cases were included in this study. The most common metastatic site was the liver. The patients with the nonorgan metastasis demonstrated the best survival outcomes, while those with multiple metastases showed the worst survival outcomes. As compared to the patients with isolated liver metastasis, those with isolated lung and other organ metastases showed better overall survival rates and tumor-specific survival rates. The patients with liver, lung, multiple, and other organ metastases or of age >60 years were the independent predictors of poor prognosis. Conclusions. The patients with isolated lung and other organ metastases demonstrated better survival outcomes as compared to those with isolated liver metastasis. The patients with nonorgan metastasis demonstrated the best survival outcomes, while those with multiple metastases showed the worst survival outcomes. Further studies are needed to determine a highly selected subset of patients, who might benefit from surgery or chemotherapy.
Retinal Occlusive Vasculitis in a Patient with Hyperimmunoglobulin E Syndrome
Authors: Farvardin Mohsen , Jalalpour Mohammad Hassan , Khalili Mohammad Reza , Mahmoudinezhad Golnoush , Mosavat Fereshteh , Aleyasin Soheila , Jahanbani-Ardakani Hamidreza
Published: December 2021

Background. Hyperimmunoglobulin E syndrome (HIES), or Job’s syndrome, is a primary immunodeficiency disorder that is characterized by an elevated level of IgE with values reaching over 2000 IU (

normal
<
200
 
IU

), eczema, and recurrent staphylococcus infection. Affected individuals are predisposed to infection, autoimmunity, and inflammation. Herein, we report a case of HIES with clinical findings of retinal occlusive vasculitis. Case Presentation. A 10-year-old boy with a known case of hyperimmunoglobulin E syndrome had exhibited loss of vision and bilateral dilated fixed pupil. Fundoscopic examination revealed peripheral retinal hemorrhaging, vascular sheathing around the retinal arteries and veins, and vascular occlusion in both eyes. A fluorescein angiography of the right eye showed hyper- and hypofluorescence in the macula and hypofluorescence in the periphery of the retina, peripheral arterial narrowing, and arterial occlusion. A fluorescein angiography of the left eye showed hyper- and hypofluorescence in the supranasal area of the optic disc. Macular optical coherence tomography of the right eye showed inner and outer retinal layer distortion. A genetic study was performed that confirmed mutations of the dedicator of cytokinesis 8 (DOCK 8). HSV polymerase chain reaction testing on aqueous humor and vitreous was negative, and finally, the patient was diagnosed with retinal occlusive vasculitis. Conclusion. Occlusive retinal vasculitis should be considered as a differential diagnosis in patients with hyperimmunoglobulin E syndrome presenting with visual loss.
TapChain: A Rule Chain Recognition Model Based on Multiple Features
Authors: Jiang Keyu , Zhang Hanyi , Zhang Weiting , Fang Liming , Ge Chunpeng , Yuan Yuan , Liu Zhe
Published: December 2021

Trigger-action programming (TAP) is an intelligent tool, which makes it easy for users to make intelligent rules for IoT devices and applications. Unfortunately, with the popularization of TAP and more and more rules, the rule chain from multiple rules appears gradually and brings more and more threats. Previous work pays more attention to the construction of the security model, but few people focus on how to accurately identify the rule chain from multiple rules. Inaccurate identification of rule chains will lead to the omission of rule chains with threats. This paper proposes a rule chain recognition model based on multiple features, TapChain, which can more accurately identify the rule chain without source code. We design a correction algorithm for TapChain to help us get the correct NLP analysis results. We extract 12 features from 5 aspects of the rules to make the recognition of the rule chain more accurate. According to the evaluation, compared with the previous work, the accuracy rate of TapChain is increased by 3.1%, the recall rate is increased by 1.4%, and the precision rate can reach 88.2%. More accurate identification of the rule chain can help to better implement the security policies and better balance security and availability. What’s more, according to the rule chain that TapChain can recognize, there is a new kind of rule chain with threats. We give the relevant case studies in the evaluation.
Prevalence and Intensity of Soil-Transmitted Helminths and Associated Factors among Adolescents and Adults in Bibugn Woreda, Northwest Ethiopia: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Goshu Abrham , Alemu Getaneh , Ayehu Animen
Published: December 2021

Background. Soil-transmitted helminths are a common public health problem in Ethiopia, affecting all age groups. However, epidemiological studies and interventions primarily target school-age children, despite the fact that 44.6 million adults live in endemic areas. Hence, data on the prevalence and intensity of soil-transmitted helminths infections and associated factors among adolescents and adults helps to expand interventions. Objective. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence and intensity of soil-transmitted helminths and associated factors among adolescents and adults in Bibugn Woreda, East Gojjam, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Bibugn Woreda from February to September 2021. Using multistage proportionate sampling technique, 641 adolescents and adults were enrolled in this study. Data on sociodemographic characteristics and factors associated with helminthic infections was collected using structured questionnaire prepared in Amharic and administered through face-to-face interview. Parasite detection in stool samples was performed using modified formol-ether concentration and Kato-Katz techniques following standard protocols. Data was entered and analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software version 25. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with soil-transmitted helminths infections.

P

value <0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results. The overall prevalence of soil-transmitted helminths infection was 20.9% (134/641). The most detected parasite was Ascaris lumbricoides (12.5%), followed by hookworm species (7.5%) and Trichuris trichiura (1.1%). Fecal egg counts revealed that 96.5% (112/116) of the infections were with light parasite intensity, while 3.5% (4/116) were with moderate parasite intensity. Family size >5 (AOR = 1.866; 95% CI: 1.221–2.853;

P
=
0.004

), absence of latrine (AOR = 3.675; 95% CI: 1.599–8.449;

P
=
0.002

), and no habit of hand washing before meal (AOR = 2.622; 95% CI: 1.073–6.405;

P
=
0.034

) were significantly associated with soil-transmitted helminths infections. Conclusion. There was moderate prevalence of soil-transmitted helminths among adolescents and adults with predominance of A. lumbricoides. Family size greater than five, absence of latrine, and no hand washing habit before meal predisposed adolescents and adults for soil-transmitted helminths. The existing school-based interventions should expand to address adolescents and adults.