bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Mechanism for Hydrogen Embrittlement in Martensitic Steel Based on Hydrogen Dilation
Authors: McGuire Michael F , Matway Roy J
Published: February 2022

Martensitic steels are used at a wide range of strength levels in environments which expose them to hydrogen or water vapor over a large range of partial pressures and temperatures. Hydrogen can cause catastrophic failures under many seemingly benign conditions. The effect of hydrogen on the dimension stability of high strength martensitic steels under such conditions has been poorly understood, and existing models do not seem to adequately account for it. Experiments were conducted to measure the variation in volume due to the uptake of hydrogen of such steels under near-ambient conditions, and the results were compared to theoretical estimates derived from the density of defects acting as hydrogen traps. Based on these results a new model for hydrogen embrittlement was developed. The hydrogen lattice dilation (HLD) model isolates volume expansion as a primary driver of hydrogen embrittlement. It provides and distinguishes two modes of failure acceleration: the fast, brittle, stress-intensity independent cracking under higher static crack loading, and a slower, highly stress-intensity dependent tearing mode at lower stress intensity. The relationship between the two is explained, as is how hydrogen absorption by defects accounts for the crack threshold and crack velocity of each.
Descending Control of Nociception in Insects?
Authors: Gibbons Matilda , Sarlak Sajedeh , Chittka Lars
Published: February 2022

Modulation of nociception allows animals to prioritise their survival by adapting their behaviour in different contexts. In mammals, this is executed by neurons from the brain, and is referred to as the descending control of nociception. Whether insects have this control, or have the neural circuits underpinning it, has not been clarified. Here, we review evidence supporting descending control of nociception control in insects, and consider which neuronal sub-types and brain areas may be involved.
The Multi-Level Model for Quarks and Leptons as the Symbiosis of Segal’s Chronometry with the Standard Model
Authors: Levichev Alexander , Palyanov Andrey
Published: February 2022

The Multi-Level Model (=MLM) was suggested by A. Levichev as a description of quarks and gluons. The review recalls MLM-terminology while MLM-findings (for quarks and leptons) are compared to the experimental data as accepted by the Standard Model (=SM). MLM is based on Segal’s compact space-time U(2) and on the sequence of embeddings: U(2) into U(3), U(2) into U(4), etc. These groups were called the levels (of matter): U(2) - the 0th (that is, our mundane world), U(3) - the 1st, U(4) - the 2nd, etc. Such a convention matches the SM-quarks' generations list. Each SM-quark is viewed either as a sunken proton, or as a captured proton. The MLM-proton is elementary and indestructible (hence no need for confinement). For MLM-quarks, in terms of the notion of a ruling group, flavor and color are defined mathematically. The number of colors (and of flavors) is level-dependent. For levels U(3) through U(6) the correspondence with the SM-quarks is established. Three new quarks and two new leptons are predicted. The SM-puzzle of quark and lepton generations is solved. Using the Han-Nambu scheme, the notion of the quark’s electric charge is expressed in terms of color charges. The original part of the review suggests studying the proton’s properties (like mass, shape and inner pressure) on the ba-sis of its wave function.
Assay for Evaluating the Abundance of Vibrio Cholerae and Its O1 Serogroup Subpopulation Directly from Water Without DNA Extraction
Authors: Nasreen Tania , Hussain Nora A.S. , Ho Jia Yee , Aw Vanessa Zie Jie , Alam Munirul , Yanow Stephanie K , Boucher Yann Felix
Published: February 2022

Cholera is a severe diarrheal disease caused by Vibrio cholerae, a natural inhabitant of brackish water. Effective control of cholera outbreaks depends on prompt detection of the pathogen from clinical specimens and tracking its source in the environment. Although the epidemiology of chol-era is well studied, rapid detection of V. cholerae remains a challenge, and data on its abundance in environmental sources are limited. Here, we describe a sensitive molecular quantification as-say by qPCR, which can be used on-site in low resource settings directly on water without the need for DNA extraction. This newly optimized method exhibited 100% specificity for total V. cholerae as well as V. cholerae O1 and allowed detection of as few as three target genome copies per reaction. The limit of detection is as low as 5 × 10E3 genome copies/L of water after concentrat-ing biomass from the sample. The ability to perform qPCR directly on water samples, portable features of the equipment, stability of the reagents at 4°C and user-friendly online software facili-tate fast quantitative analysis of V. cholerae. These characteristics make this assay extremely use-ful for field research in resource-poor settings and could support continuous monitoring in cholera endemic areas.
Tandem Recurrence Relations for Coefficients of Logarithmic Frobenius Series Solutions about Regular Singular Points
Authors: Van Der Toorn Ramses
Published: February 2022

We enhance Frobenius' method for solving linear ordinary differential equations about regular singular points. Key to Frobenius' approach is the exploration of the derivative with respect to a single parameter; this parameter is introduced through the powers of generalized power series. Extending this approach, we discover that tandem recurrence relations can be derived. These relations render coefficients for series occurring in logarithmic solutions. The method applies to the, practically important, exceptional cases in which the roots of the indicial equation are equal, or differ by a non-zero integer. We demonstrate the method on Bessel's equation and derive previously unknown tandem recurrence relations for coefficients of solutions of the second kind, for Bessel equations of all integer and half-integer order.
Analisis Bibliometrik Menggunakan Vosviewer Terhadap Trend Riset Matematika Terapan Di Google Scholar
Authors: Karim Arifin
Published: February 2022

Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk meningkatkan kemampuan penalaran matematis siswa melalui model Problem Based Learning. Metode penelitian ini adalah Penelitian Tindakan Kelas (PTK). Penelitian ini dilakukan selama tiga siklus dan dilakukan kepada 36 siswa dengan memilih 6 siswa yang digunakan sebagai subjek penelitian. Analisis data dilakukan dengan mendeskripsikan data kuantitatif dan kualitatif yang diperoleh selama proses tindakan pembelajaran. Penelitian ini menunjukkan hasil kemampuan penalaran matematis siswa dapat meningkat melalui penerapan model Problem Based Learning. Peningkatan terlihat dari peningkatan setiap Subjek Penelitian (SP), nilai rata-rata tes akhir kemampuan penalaran matematis siswa yang masuk dalam kategori sangat baik, dan jumlah siswa yang telah dapat meraih kategori baik. Nilai rata-rata tes akhir kemampuan penalaran matematis siswa kelas VII-1 SMPN 176 pada siklus 1 adalah 68,17, meningkat pada siklus 2 menjadi 78,59 dan meningkat kembali pada siklus 3 menjadi 84,95 yang telah masuk kategori sangat baik. Berdasarkan data yang diperoleh, jumlah siswa yang mendapatkan nilai tes akhir siklus melampaui kategori baik mengalami peningkatan. Pencapaian peningkatan jumlah siswa tersebut diraih dengan rata-rata yang telah meraih kategori baik pada siklus 1 yaitu sebanyak 25% siswa dan siklus 2 sebanyak 58% siswa serta kategori sangat baik pada siklus 3 sebanyak 75% siswa.
Kemampuan Representasi Matematis Siswa dalam Memecahkan Masalah Relasi dan Fungsi Kelas VIII SMP
Authors: Iffa Dini Sofiatul , Subarinah Sri , Baidowi Baidowi , Sripatmi Sripatmi
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to knowing and describe students' mathematical representation skills in solving relational and function problems for class VIII in academic year 2021/2022. The research method used was descriptive research with a qualitative approach. The instruments used were mathematical representation ability tests and interview. The research subjects were students VIII C with 30 students who were given a mathematical representation ability test grouped into high, medium, and low categories based on their mathematical ability. From each category, 2 students were selected to be interviewed further. In general, from the test results, students with high mathematical representation abilities have been able to achieve indicators of mathematical representation abilities with an achievement percentage of 82.63% which is very good. Students with moderate mathematical representation skills with an achievement percentage of 51.26%, which is sufficient. and students with low mathematical representation skills with an achievement percentage of 25.95%, which is less. From the results of interviews, students with high mathematical mathematical representation abilities were able to explain the answers to the test results very well. Students with moderate mathematical representation skills are quite able to explain their answers well. Students with low mathematical representation ability are able to explain the answer but the explanation given is less detailed.
Disparities of COVID-19 and HIV Occurrence Based on Neighborhood Infection Incidence in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Authors: Goldstein Neal D. , Webster Jessica L. , Robinson Lucy F. , Welles Seth L.
Published: February 2022

Objectives. To evaluate the occurrence of HIV and COVID-19 infections in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, through July 2020 and identify ecological correlates driving racial disparities in infection incidence.

Methods. For each zip code tabulation area, we created citywide comparison Z-score measures of COVID-19 cases, new cases of HIV, and the difference between the scores. Choropleth maps were used to identify areas that were similar or dissimilar in terms of disease patterning, and weighted linear regression models helped identify independent ecological predictors of these patterns.

Results. Relative to COVID-19, HIV represented a greater burden in Center City Philadelphia, whereas COVID-19 was more apparent in Northeast Philadelphia. Areas with a greater proportion of Black or African American residents were overrepresented in terms of both diseases.

Conclusions. Although race is a shared nominal upstream factor that conveys increased risk for both infections, an understanding of separate structural, demographic, and economic risk factors that drive the overrepresentation of COVID-19 cases in racial/ethnic communities across Philadelphia is critical.

Public Health Implications. Difference-based measures are useful in identifying areas that are underrepresented or overrepresented with respect to disease occurrence and may be able to elucidate effective or ineffective mitigation strategies. (Am J Public Health. 2022;112(3):408–416. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2021.306538 )
Racial/Ethnic Segregation and Access to COVID-19 Testing: Spatial Distribution of COVID-19 Testing Sites in the Four Largest Highly Segregated Cities in the United States
Authors: Asabor Emmanuella Ngozi , Warren Joshua L. , Cohen Ted
Published: February 2022

Objectives. To quantify the relationship between the segregation of Black, Indigenous, and Latinx communities and COVID-19 testing sites in populous US cities.

Methods. We mapped testing sites as of June 2020 in New York City; Chicago, Illinois; Los Angeles, California; and Houston, Texas; we applied Bayesian methods to estimate the association between testing site location and the proportion of the population that is Black, Latinx, or Indigenous per block group, the smallest unit for which the US Census collects sociodemographic data.

Results. In New York City, Chicago, and Houston, the expected number of testing sites decreased by 1.29%, 3.05%, and 1.06%, respectively, for each percentage point increase in the Black population. In Chicago, Houston, and Los Angeles, testing sites decreased by 5.64%, 1.95%, and 1.69%, respectively, for each percentage point increase in the Latinx population.

Conclusions. In the largest highly segregated US cities, neighborhoods with more Black and Latinx residents had fewer COVID-19 testing sites, likely limiting these communities’ participation in the early response to COVID-19.

Public Health Implications. In light of conversations on the ethics of racial vaccine prioritization, authorities should consider structural barriers to COVID-19 control efforts. (Am J Public Health. 2022;112(3):518–526. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2021.306558 )
Mental Health and Protective Factors for Transgender and Gender-Diverse Youths Who Trade Sex: A Minnesota Statewide School-Based Study, 2019
Authors: Nic Rider G. , McMorris Barbara J. , Brown Camille , Eisenberg Marla E. , Gower Amy L. , Johnston-Goodstar Katie , Filoteo Montana , Singerhouse Emily , Martin Lauren
Published: February 2022

Objectives. To describe the prevalence of sex trading by gender and by associations with mental health concerns and protective factors.

Methods. We used data from 9th and 11th graders who completed the 2019 Minnesota Student Survey. The analytic sample (n = 67 806) included transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) youths and cisgender youths who reported trading sex. Data on 7 mental health measures and 4 school-related and health care–related protective factors were collected.

Results. The prevalence of sex trading (5.9%) was 5 times higher among TGD students than cisgender students (1.2%). In addition, the prevalence of all mental health concerns was high among TGD students who traded sex (e.g., 75.9% reported a lifetime suicide attempt, as compared with 45.9% of cisgender students who traded sex). Fewer statistical differences were found across protective factors. When TGD students who traded sex were compared according to sex assigned at birth, no statistically significant differences were found.

Conclusions. Our findings support strong calls for increased competence regarding gender and sex trading or exploitation in clinical and school-based settings to decrease health disparities among TGD youths.

Public Health Implications. In this study, we have presented unique prevalence estimates of mental health disparities among TGD students in the United States who trade sex. Our results indicate that TGD students who trade sex are at risk for mental health symptoms and that sensitivity to both gender and sex trading or exploitation will be critical to meeting the needs of this group in clinical as well as school-based settings.
Teaching electromagnetism using interactive-invention instructional strategy and the learning outcome of secondary school students
Authors: Ukoh Edidiong Enyeneokpon
Published: February 2022

Electromagnetism is an important aspect of physics in Nigerian secondary school curriculum and has been identified as one of the difficult topics to learn by the students. There seem to be very little research on how to make the learning of electromagnetism easy and enjoyable. Therefore, this study determined the effect of teaching electromagnetism using interactive-invention instructional strategy on senior secondary II (SSII) physics students learning outcome. Pretest posttest control group quasi-experimental research design was employed with 125 SSII students from three randomly selected schools. Intact classes were used and two experimental groups were taught using interactive-invention instructional strategy: group I students worked individually and group II students worked in groups of five and control group was taught conventionally. Two research instruments were used to gather data for the study, namely physics achievement worksheets and in-class interview guide. Students in the experimental groups demonstrated better understanding of the concepts more than those in the control group.  In-class interview was carried out at the end of the treatment and all the students in the experimental groups reported that they enjoyed learning the concepts because they had opportunity for hands-on activities and they will prefer that electromagnetic concepts be taught using instructional materials they could manipulate to observe what happens by themselves. It was recommended that teachers use this strategy where hands-on activity-based was emphasized to enhance easy learning of electromagnetism.
Concept understanding profile of high school students on doppler effect and sound intensity levels
Authors: Silaban Yohansen Frando Hadinata , Jumadi Jumadi
Published: February 2022

The purpose of this study is to map the profile of high school students' conceptual understanding in physics subjects with the Doppler effect and sound intensity levels, and to show the causes of misconceptions in high school students from the results of the Certainty of Response Index (CRI) method applied. The research method is descriptive quantitative with data analysis techniques in the form of descriptive statistics. The data collection technique used is an ordinary multiple choice test instrument equipped with a confidence level scale using the model CRI (Certainty of Response Index). This confidence scale is used as data for understanding students' concepts in answering questions that are analyzed statistically. The research subjects were 66 high school students in class XI who were randomly selected and had received lessons on sound waves. The test results showed that there were misconceptions in each item with the largest percentage of 45.45% in item number 3 and the smallest 12.12% in item number 2. Other responses in the form of lucky guess and not knowing the concept were also found with varying percentages. The misconceptions encountered occurred in the use of signs for the speed of the observer and the speed of the source, the relationship between distance and number of sound sources at the level of sound intensity, and the relationship between sound magnitudes. The results of this concept understanding profile are expected to be information for teachers to be able to overcome students' misconceptions and arrange appropriate learning strategies during the learning process.
Introducing “Physics of music” to students using free software
Authors: Pothiyodath Nishanth , Murkoth Udayanandan Kandoth
Published: February 2022

Many  consider physics to be a highly mathematical oriented  subject to study. To break this opinion and also to generate a deep interest in  physics, a course on ‘Physics of Music’ can  be introduced at any level of a curriculum. We present a simple and practical way of introducing this topic even for school level students. Teachers, along with students, can visualise and feel physics all time throughout the course.
Project-based inquiry-science: An innovative learning for thinking, teaching and assessing science-physics
Authors: Lestari Nurita Apridiana , Hariyono Eko , Dwikoranto Dwikoranto , Prahani Binar Kurnia , Deta Utama Alan
Published: February 2022

Project-based Inquiry Science (PjBI-Science) is one of the embodiments of innovative learning designed for students to have abilities like scientists and to experience various investigative methodologies, which include experimentation, modelling, simulation, and data analysis in the fields of earth science, life science, and physical sciences. Not only beneficial for students, but PjBI-Science also facilitates teachers to be able to design detailed learning processes and conduct assessments according to students' thinking skills and abilities, both individually and in groups. This study aims to identify the characteristics and find the benefits of implementing PjBI-Science learning. The research method used is a systematic review with a meta-aggregation method that summarizes the results of research related to PjBI-Science qualitatively. Based on the literature review results to identify the characteristics of the implementation of PjBi-Science, conclusions were obtained regarding the benefits of implementing learning. For students, it can improve the quality of abilities in the natural science field and accommodate the learning needs to optimize thinking skills, while for teachers, it can holistically provide alternative teaching styles in an innovative way and conduct an effective assessment of the activities and cognitive abilities of students.
Semiautomatic Algorithm to Map Tectonic Faults and Measure Scarp Height from Topography Applied to the Volcanic Tablelands and the Hurricane Fault, Western US
Authors: Scott Chelsea P. , Giampietro Tiziano , Brigham Cassandra , Leclerc Frédérique , Manighetti Isabelle , Arrowsmith J Ramon , Laó-Dávila Daniel A. , Mattéo Lionel
Published: February 2022

Observations of fault geometry and cumulative slip distribution serve as critical constraints on fault behavior over temporal scales ranging from a single earthquake to a fault’s complete history. The increasing availability of high-resolution topography (at least one observation per square meter) from air- and spaceborne platforms facilitates measuring geometric properties along faults over a range of spatial scales. However, manually mapping faults and measuring slip or scarp height is time-intensive, limiting the use of rich topography datasets. To substantially decrease the time required to analyze fault systems, we developed a novel approach for systematically mapping dip-slip faults and measuring scarp height. Our MATLAB algorithm detects fault scarps from topography by identifying regions of steep relief given length and slope parameters calibrated from a manually drawn fault map. We applied our algorithm to well-preserved normal faults in the Volcanic Tablelands of eastern California using four datasets: (1) structure-from-motion topography from a small uncrewed aerial system (sUAS; 20 cm resolution), (2) airborne laser scanning (25 cm), (3) Pléiades stereosatellite imagery (50 cm), and SRTM (30 m) topography. The algorithm and manually mapped fault trace architectures are consistent for primary faults, although can differ for secondary faults. On average, the scarp height profiles are asymmetric, suggesting fault lateral propagation and along-strike variations in the fault’s mechanical properties. We applied our algorithm to Arizona and Utah with a specific focus on the normal Hurricane fault where the algorithm mapped faults and other prominent topographic features well. This analysis demonstrates that the algorithm can be applied in a variety of geomorphic and tectonic settings.
Determining the nutrient content, relative feed value, and in vitro digestibility value of some legume forage plants
Authors: Gürsoy Esra
Published: February 2022

The purpose of this study was to determine the feed values of some legume forage plants growing in a natural environment. The plant materials used in the study were as follows: Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), varigated alfalfa (Medicago varia), bird vetch (Vicia cracca), mountain vetch (Vicia alpestris), mountain clover (Trifolium montanum), kura clover (Trifolium ambiguum), three-headed clover (Trifolium trichocephalum), purple crownvetch (Coronilla varia), and bird’s foot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus). The feeds were examined in terms of nutrient content, relative feed value, true dry matter digestibility, true organic matter digestibility, true neutral detergent fiber digestibility, and relative feed quality. The legume forage plants were found to be significantly different from each other in terms of nutrient contents (P<0.05). The mountain clover was found to have the highest contents of crude protein and crude fat among the legume forage plants examined in this study, while the alfalfa was found to have more contents of dry matter and NDF than the other legume forage plants. On the other hand, the dry matter intake was found to be the highest in the three-headed clover, the dry matter digestibility and relative feed value were found to be the highest in the purple crownvetch, and the relative feed quality was found to be the highest in the mountain vetch. The nutrient contents, relative feed values, and relative feed quality values of the forage plants showed that they could be used in animal feeding.
Adaptive Mobility Target Tracking with Metaheuristic Aided Target Movement Prediction Scheme in Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Narasapuram Ramadevi , S Subramanyam M V , C Shoba Bindu
Published: February 2022

Mobile Target Tracking is one of the most important applications in Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs), particularly for surveillance purposes. The tracking accuracy is highly dependent on distance estimation or localization, and so far more works has been done in this aspect. This paper proposes a new energy-saving target tracking scheme with two phases: (i) Mobility Target Tracking and (ii) Target Movement Prediction. At first, the target tracking is attained by Extended Kalman Filter. Following this, the target movement is predicted with the aid of input factors such as Angle of Arrival (AoA) and Received Signal Strength (RSS), thereby the mobile node's optimal movement is predicted. This scenario is considered as the optimization crisis as the prediction of optimal node movement is one of most significant problems in WSN. In order to make the optimal prediction more precise, a new hybrid algorithm named Lion Mutated-Crow Search Algorithm (LM-CS) is introduced. The proposed algorithm combines the concept of Lion Algorithm (LA) and Cuckoo Search algorithm (CS), respectively. To the end, the performance of proposed work is evaluated over other models with respect to convergence analysis, error analysis and so on.
Evaluate the Effectiveness of Four Alternative Approaches for the Classical Cough Test During the Urodynamic Study in the Context of the COVID-19 Global Epidemic Situation
Authors: Zeng Xiao , Liu Shuang , Shen SiHong , Shen Hong , Luo DeYi
Published: February 2022

Objective
To evaluate the four different alternatives to the classical cough test during a urodynamic study in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Materials and Methods
Patients who needed to undergo a urodynamic study (UDS) at the West China Hospital of Sichuan University between April 2021 and May 2021 were randomly selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. During the UDS process, we used four alternative methods to the “cough test”: 1) quickly pressing the bladder area, 2) performing the Valsalva maneuver, 3) performing the Kegel maneuver, and 4) letting the patient close their mouth while doing cough test. The "cough" waveform data were obtained and compared with the classical cough test.
Results
120 patients (89 men, 31 women) were included in the study. There was no statistical difference between the cough waveform induced by the Valsalva maneuver compared with the classical cough test (P=0.150), no statistical difference between cough with closing mouth and classical cough test(P=0.255), no significant difference between pressing quickly on the bladder area and classical method(P=0.087), and there was a significant difference between the data obtained by the Kegel maneuver and the classical method (P<0.05). The average "cough" amplitude obtained was 73.14 ± 22.48 cm H2O, 66.17 ± 17.12 cm H2O, 82.93 ± 18.95 cm H2O, 26.50 ± 8.68 cm H2O, and 68.90 ± 20.32 cm H2O by the classical cough test, by quickly pressing the bladder area, by the Valsalva maneuver, by the Kegel maneuver, and by coughing with a closed mouth, respectively.
Conclusion
Quickly pressing the bladder area, performing the Valsalva maneuver, and letting the patient close their mouth while doing the cough test can all provide effective cough waveforms and amplitudes.
Trial registration:
No.2021–183.
Feasibility of Assessing Bone Mineral Density Based on Hydroxyapatite-(iodine) Image Analysis in Contrast-Enhanced Dual-Energy Spectral CT Imaging
Authors: Zhao Mingyue , Liu Yijun , Liu Lei , Zhang Zijing , Li Jianying , Wei Wei
Published: February 2022

Background. To explore the feasibility of using hydroxyapatite (HAP) measurement based on the material decomposition in dual-energy spectral CT imaging to evaluate bone mineral density (BMD).Methods. 247 patients (aged 16 to 97 years, 156 males and 91 females) who underwent both unenhanced and contrast-enhanced (arterial-, venous- and delayed-) phase abdominal dual-energy spectral CT were retrospectively collected. Patients were divided into four groups according to their ages: group A (<30years, n=40), group B (30-49years, n=90), group C (50-69years, n=73) and group D (≥70years, n=44). HAP densities of trabecular bone of the third lumbar vertebrae in four phases were measured on the HAP material decomposition images using HAP-Iodine as the basis material pair and recorded. HAP as function of age was established and measurements in four phases were statistically compared using that in unenhanced phase as the reference standard.Results. No statistical difference was found in HAP value among different imaging phases (P>0.05). The HAP value was positively correlated with age in group A (r=0.393, P<0.05) and negatively correlated with age in groups B, C and D (r=-0.298, -0.361, -0.361, P<0.05), and overall high negative correlation with age for patients ≥30years (r=-0.775, P<0.05).Conclusions. The HAP measurement is not affected by contrast agent and stable in different imaging phases in dual-energy spectral CT, enabling a phase-independent HAP measurement. HAP has correlation with age which may be used to reflect the change of vertebral BMD, providing a reference for evaluating BMD according to the linear regression equation.
Comparison of Post-operative Bleeding Incidence in Laser Hemorrhoidoplasty with and without Hemorrhoidal Artery Ligation: A Double-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lim Shu Yu , Rajandram Retnagowri , Roslani April Camilla
Published: February 2022

Purpose: To investigate the effectiveness of hemorrhoidal artery ligation supplementation in reducing the incidence of post laser hemorrhoidoplasty bleeding.Method: This was a double-blind, randomized controlled trial comparing post-operative bleeding incidence in patients undergoing laser hemorrhoidoplasty (LHP) only versus LHP with hemorrhoidal artery ligation (HAL). Outcome measures included post-operative bleeding and its severity (i.e. verbal rating scale and Clavien-Dindo classification), presence of perianal swelling and pain score (visual analog score) at 1-day, 1-week and 6-weeks post-operatively. Statistical tests were performed and a value of P<0.05 was considered significant. Results: Seventy-six patients were randomized. There was no difference in median operating time. The bleeding incidence was highest at 1-week post-operatively (17.1%), and decreased to 1.3% at 6-weeks. There was no significant difference in bleeding incidence between both groups at any of the measured timepoints (P>0.05). Severity of bleeding and incidence of post-operative perianal swelling were similar in both groups (P>0.05). There was no difference in median pain scores. Conclusion: Supplementation of HAL to LHP does not reduce the post-operative bleeding incidence. LHP is sufficient as a stand-alone procedure for treating haemorrhoids.Trial Registration:National Registration Number is NMRR-15-1112-24065 (IIR). The trial start date was 1st January 2015 with the ClinicalTrials.gov identifier and registration number as NCT04667169.
Radiomics combined with clinical characteristics predicted the progression-free survival time in first-line targeted therapy for advanced non-small cell lung cancer with EGFR mutation
Authors: Zhu Jianman , Sun Lei , Wang Linjing , Zhou Tongchong , Yuan Yawei , Zhen Xin , Liao Zhiwei
Published: February 2022

Objective:This study was to explore the most appropriate radiomics modeling method to predict the progression-free survival of EGFR-TKI treatment in advanced non-small cell lung cancer with EGFR mutations. Different machine learning methods may vary considerably and the selection of a proper model is essential for accurate treatment outcome prediction. Our study were established 176 discrimination models constructed with 22 feature selection methods and 8 classifiers. The predictive performance of each model was evaluated using the AUC, ACC,sensitivity and specificity,where the optimal model was identified. Results:There were totally 107 radiomics features and 7 clinical features obtained from each patient. After feature selection, the top-ten most relevant features were fed to train 176 models.Significant performance variations were observed in the established models, with the best performance achieved by the logistic regression model using gini-index feature selection (AUC=0.797, ACC=0.722, sensitivity=0.758, specificity=0.693).The median R-score was 0.518 (IQR,0.023-0.987), and the patients were divided into high-risk and low-risk groups based on this cut-off value. The KM survival curves of the two groups demonstrated evident stratification results (p=0.000).
Retroperitoneal Nephrometry Scoring System (RETRO) for Minimal-Invasive Partial Nephrectomy
Authors: Ye Sunyi , Zhu Lixian , Wang Ping , Sun Xinxing , Xu Xin , Zhao Feng , Yao Xiaolin , Huang Qiang , Dai Yun , Xia Dan , Wang Shuo
Published: February 2022

Objective
To propose a standardized scoring system of renal tumors suitable for partial nephrectomy based on mini-invasiveness and retroperitoneal approach.
Patients and Methods:
One-hundred and five patients in retroperitoneal group and 17 in transperitoneal group were prospectively enrolled from January 2017 to December 2018. Robot-assisted laparoscopic partial nephrectomy performed by one surgeon. Perioperative characteristics of all patients were collected: age, gender, BMI, preoperative blood test and imaging results, operation time (the time period starts from the skin incision to the final skin closure), estimated blood lost, clamping time, complications within 30 days, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, pathology. An algorithm was extracted, and it was used to predict the risk of complications.
Results
Symptoms, ASA score and RETRO score were significantly correlated to postoperative complications, excluding tumor size, ischemia time and operation time. Adjusted RETRO points were an independent factor to predict complication rate (p=0.006). Limitation was that it did not analyze the relationship between the RETRO score and the long-term outcomes.
Conclusions
The RETRO score simplifies the risk evaluation of partial nephrectomy for patients with renal tumor, especially benefits those surgeries performed under robot-assisted laparoscope via retroperitoneal approach. The new RETRO score system that we developed is a selection criterion to perform surgery via different approach, and an accurate system to evaluate the complexity during partial nephrectomy.
Differences in canopy cover estimations from ALS data and their effect on fire predictions
Authors: Taneja Ritu , Wallace Luke , Reinke Karin , Hilton James , Jones Simon
Published: February 2022

Canopy cover is a primary attribute used in empirical wildfire models for certain fuel types. Accurate estimation of canopy cover is key to ensuring accurate prediction of fire spread and behaviour in these fuels. Airborne Laser Scanning (ALS) is a promising active remote sensing technology for estimating canopy cover in natural eco-systems since it can penetrate and measure the vegetation canopy. Various methods have been developed to estimate canopy cover from ALS data. However, little attention has been given to the evaluation of algorithms used to calculate canopy cover and the subsequent influence these algorithms can have on wildfire behaviour models. In this study we evaluate the effect of using different algorithms to calculate canopy cover on the performance of the Australian Mallee-heath fire spread model. ALS data was used to derive five canopy cover models. Fire spread metrics including burned area, unburned area within the fire extent, and extent of fire were compared for different model run times. The results show that these metrics are strongly influenced by choice of algorithm used to calculate canopy cover. The results from this study may provide practical guidance for the optimal selection of estimation methods in canopy cover mapping.
Factors associated with postpartum psychiatric disorders using routine administrative data
Authors: Alves Flávia Jôse Oliveira , Castro-de-Araujo Luis F. , Xavier Erika Fialho Morais , Silva Vivian Alessandra Ferreira da , Machado Daiane Borges , Barreto Maurício L.
Published: February 2022

Objective: To evaluate factors associated with postpartum psychiatric disorders and to propose a new approach for the use of routine mental health service data in BrazilMethods: We extracted data on visits to psychiatric outpatient services from the Authorization of Outpatient Procedures in Brazil (2008-2012). Generalized Additive Models for Location, Scale, and Shape (GAMLSS) with double Poisson distribution were performed, with postpartum psychiatric disorders as the dependent variable.Results: At each increment in the maternal age unit and CAPS coverage percentage, there was an increase of 1.01 (p<0.001) in the occurrence of postpartum psychiatric disorders.Conclusions: An increase in age is associated with a higher risk of presenting a postpartum psychiatric disorder. This approach provides an innovative feature to routinely analyse collected data.
The Whistleblower’s Dilemma: An Evolutionary Game Analysis of Public Health Early Warning System
Authors: Cao Feng , Zhang Ling , Wu Yihan
Published: February 2022

Background: The outbreak of a disease is presenting a serious challenge to China’s current public health emergency management system. Despite of China’s emergency preparedness is showing a good overall progress, gaps remain in the implementation of effective early warning system.Methods: In this context, a tripartite evolutionary game model composed of the local government, the whistle-blower, and the public is formulated. By using MATLAB, the dynamic evolution path of the game model is stimulated under different conditions. The stable strategies for early warning system for public health emergency are also explored. Results: The results indicate that the cost of whistleblowing, the cost of response, and the benefit of attention significantly influence strategic decisions among three parties in the process of managing public health emergency. When there is a serious risk of an outbreak, the local government tends to adopt a active response strategy in the first instance to try to reduce the loss of life and property, whilst the cost of public warning to the whistleblower may influence government’s decision-makings. When the accuracy of early warning information is questionable, the local government tends to adopt a cautious strategy to reduce the total loss to society. Nevertheless, the whistleblower may choose to give early warning signs to the public, given the potential risks to the public. As a group with limited information resources, the public’s strategic decisions are largely influenced by the actions of the local government and the whistle blowers. The whistleblower thus faces a dilemma in public health early warning system.Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of the whistleblowing in managing public health emergency. Yet our findings provide theoretical support for policy recommendations for promoting the public health emergency preparedness.
Association Between Psychological Distress at Different Points in the Treatment of Esophageal Cancer and Stress-Coping Style
Authors: Ohkura Yu , Ichikura Kanako , Shindoh Junichi , Ueno Masaki , Udagawa Harushi , Matsushima Eisuke
Published: February 2022

Background
Patients with esophageal cancer often have depressed mood and fear of metastasis and death. Esophagectomy is an invasive procedure with a high incidence of complications. The objective of this study was to examine the association between stress-coping style and psychological distress at different points in the treatment of esophageal cancer.
Methods
Of 152 consecutive patients treated for esophageal cancer at the outpatient clinic at Toranomon Hospital between April 2017 and April 2019, 102 met the eligibility criteria for this study. Questionnaires designed to identify psychological distress and stress-coping styles were longitudinally administered at 5 time points, from the initial outpatient consultation to 3 months after esophagectomy.
Results
The coping styles ‘fighting spirit’ (OR 0.836, 95% CI 0.762–0.918; p < 0.001) and ‘anxious preoccupation’ (OR 1.482, 95% CI 1.256–1.748; p < 0.001) were strongly associated with psychological distress before treatment. However, later in treatment, ‘helpless/hopeless’ (OR 1.337, 95% CI 1.099–1.626; p = 0.004) became strongly associated with psychological distress after esophagectomy. There were no relationships between psychological distress and individual patient characteristics, with the exception of ‘history of surgery’ and ‘final staging.’ The concordance index was 0.864, 0.826, 0.839, 0.830, and 0.840 at times 1–5, respectively.
Conclusions
The relationship between psychological distress and coping styles was stronger at different points in the treatment of esophageal cancer compared with that between psychological distress and individual patient characteristics. This study used prospective basic clinical data and may provide baseline information for risk stratification in psychological management and for future clinical studies in patients with esophageal cancer.
A Phylogeographic Assessment of The Greater Kudu (Tragelaphus Strepsiceros) Across South Africa
Authors: Jacobs Ruan , Coetzer Willem Gabriel , Grobler Paul
Published: February 2022

The greater kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) is widespread throughout South Africa and occurs in higher densities in the north-eastern and southern regions, with isolated populations in the Eastern Cape Province and in the Kimberley area in the Northern Cape Province. This study aimed to quantify the levels of genetic diversity and differentiation within and between individual greater kudu populations, based on neutral mitochondrial DNA regions as well as adaptive variation. A total of 116 kudu were sampled from various biomes, separated by geographic features and distance, across six South African provinces. Sampling was based on skin samples collected from taxidermists. Genetic diversity and differentiation were quantified using sequence data from the mitochondrial control region (mtDNA CR) and the Heat Shock Protein Subunit 5 (HSPA5) gene. A short tandem repeat (STR) sequences was identified at the 3’-UTR of the Bone Morphogenetic Protein 4 (BMP4) gene and used for downstream analyses. Twenty-six haplotypes were identified the CR dataset, three for the HSPA5 region, and 14 alleles were identified for the BMP4 STR. The CR phylogenetic analyses identified two distinct genetic clades representing an Eastern and Western group respectively. Molecular divergence dating identified the most recent common ancestor of the Eastern and Western South African kudu clades as older (2.237 Mya) than some well-known African antelope species. This data was further supported by the HSPA5 and BMP4 results. Environmental selective pressures, such as rainfall and ambient temperature were also identified as possible driving forces for evolution at the HSPA5 gene region. These results can provide support for future conservation management decisions to ensure the conservation of natural patterns of diversity in this majestic antelope species in South Africa.
Effects of Fitting Parameter on Device Performance and Reliability of Double-Gate n-FinFET by Using Bohm Quantum Potential (BQP) Model
Authors: MAURYA RAVINDRA KUMAR , Bhowmick Brinda
Published: February 2022

Scaling of devices has been reached a brick wall due to short channel effects (SCEs) and quantum behavior of carriers. At this level, the quantum mechanics became more powerful than classical mechanics. In this paper,3-D Bohm Quantum Potential (BQP) model has been used to evaluate the electrical characteristic of n-FinFET at 300Kfor different high-k materials as gate dielectric. In this work, the numerical tool Silvaco’s Devedit has been used to simulate the device in 3-D.The sub-threshold swing (SS) is evaluated utilizing physics based modeling and numerical simulation, indicating strong dependency of SSon the fitting parameter (α), gate dielectric materials, and physical gate length of n-FinFET. The SS value down to 46.46 mV/decade is achieved using high gate dielectric constant (TiO2, k= 80). Here, drain induced barrier lowering (DIBL), transconductance, unity gain cut-off frequency (fT), intrinsic gate delay, and off-state power dissipation etc. electrical parameters have been investigated.
Children and Rural-Urban Inequality of Health Among Elderly in China: "Convergence Phenomenon" of the Number of Children and "Action Mechanism" of the Quality of Children
Authors: Zheng Zhenhua , Chu Yusu , Liu Yang , Lu Yingchen , Liu Wanting , Sun Ning , Chen Hong
Published: February 2022

Background: There is a widespread health inequality between urban and rural elderly people in China. China's unique social culture, policy environment and family relations determine the importance of children to the health of the elderly. However, the existing research on the health inequality of urban and rural elderly in China was generally reflected in the discussion of the urban-rural dual structure and the socioeconomic status of the elderly, but ignoring the important role of children in the health of the elderly in China and that in the health inequality of urban and rural elderly in China.Methods: The data we used come from the 2014 China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey (CLASS). In total, 9745 valid samples were obtained. The statistical method used in thisstudy was the structural equation modeling method(SEM).Results: the degree of health inequality between urban and rural elderly decreases with the increase of the number of children. Children's quality, especially their economic status, played an important role in the health of the elderly, and was even significantly greater than the impact of their own socio-economic status. Conclusion: With the increase of the number of children, the health gap between urban and rural elderly in China showed a “convergence phenomenon”, and the urban-rural health inequality of the elderly and the urban-rural gap of children's economic conditions changed in the same direction. The economic conditions of children were not only an important factor affecting the health of the elderly, but also one of the important reasons for the convergence of the urban-rural health gap of the elderly with the increase of the number of children.