bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early postoperative infection following lamellar keratoplasty: a review
Authors: Das Shilpa , Chaurasia Sunita , Sharma Savitri , Das Sujata
Published: May 2021

With the growing popularity of lamellar keratoplasty for selective replacement of diseased corneal tissue, it is important to understand the risk of developing an infection after the procedure. Although lesser than that postpenetrating keratoplasty, the reports on post lamellar keratoplasty infectious keratitis are not negligible. Trends of acute infections arising within 2 months of surgery are a subject of interest. Most of these infections are reported post Descemet’s stripping endothelial keratoplasty with a preponderance of Candida species. A donor to host transmission of infection is not uncommon. Among the Candida cases, about 80% seem to occur due to a donor to host transmission. Infections presenting as or progressing to endophthalmitis lead to a poor visual outcome. Strict aseptic measures and protocols during corneal tissue harvesting, tissue processing, tissue storage and surgery are essential to prevent occurrence of these infections. After the infection has occurred, determining the aetiology and drug susceptibility through microbiological testing is vital. This helps to guide treatment protocols and hence determines final outcome of these cases. Most cases require some form of surgical management for resolution of infection, most often a graft removal and therapeutic keratoplasty. Secondary surgical interventions are performed to restore graft clarity and achieve a good final visual outcome.
Cost-effectiveness of empagliflozin versus canagliflozin, dapagliflozin, or standard of care in patients with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease
Authors: Reifsnider Odette S , Kansal Anuraag R , Gandhi Pranav K , Cragin Lael , Brand Sarah B , Pfarr Egon , Fahrbach Kyle , Ustyugova Anastasia
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Empagliflozin, a sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitor, is approved in the USA to reduce risk of cardiovascular (CV) death in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and established CV disease, based on EMPA-REG OUTCOME (Empagliflozin Cardiovascular Outcome Event Trial in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients) trial results. Empagliflozin reduced major adverse CV event (MACE) by 14%, CV death by 38%, and hospitalization for heart failure (HHF) by 35% vs placebo, each on top of standard of care (SoC). SGLT-2 inhibitors canagliflozin and dapagliflozin have also been compared with placebo, all on top of SoC, in CV outcome trials. In the CANVAS (Canagliflozin Cardiovascular Assessment Study) Program, canagliflozin reduced MACE by 14% and HHF by 33%. Dapagliflozin reduced HHF by 27% in the DECLARE-TIMI 58 trial (Multicenter Trial to Evaluate the Effect of Dapagliflozin on the Incidence of Cardiovascular Events). This analysis estimated the cost-effectiveness of empagliflozin versus canagliflozin, dapagliflozin, or SoC, in US adults with T2DM and established CV disease.

Research design and methods

Individual patient-level discrete-event simulation was conducted to predict time-to-event for CV and renal outcomes, and specific adverse events over patients’ lifetimes. Occurrence of events in EMPA-REG OUTCOME was estimated based on event-free survival curves with time-dependent covariates. An HR for canagliflozin or dapagliflozin versus empagliflozin on each clinical event was estimated from published CANVAS, DECLARE-TIMI 58, and EMPA-REG OUTCOME data using indirect treatment comparison. Public sources provided US costs and utilities.

Results

The model predicted longer survival for empagliflozin versus canagliflozin, dapagliflozin, and SoC mainly due to direct reduction in CV death. Empagliflozin dominated canagliflozin, yielding more quality-adjusted life years (QALYs; 0.38) at a lower cost (−US$306). Compared with dapagliflozin and SoC, empagliflozin yielded 0.50 and 0.84 incremental QALYs at US$1517 and US$27 539 incremental costs, yielding incremental cost-effectiveness ratios of US$3054/QALY and US$32 848/QALY, respectively.

Conclusions

Empagliflozin was projected to dominate canagliflozin and be highly cost-effective compared with dapagliflozin and SoC using US healthcare costs.
Systematic depression and anxiety screening for patients and caregivers: implementation and process improvement in a cystic fibrosis clinic
Authors: Goetz Danielle Marie , Frederick Carla , Savant Adrienne , Cogswell Alex , Fries Lynne , Roach Christine , Shea Nicole , Borowitz Drucy , Smith Beth
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Depression and anxiety are common. Rates are significantly higher in cystic fibrosis (CF), and impact health outcomes. Screening is recommended, but is difficult to implement/sustain annually in a busy CF centre. The aim was to develop an acceptable model for depression and anxiety screening in adolescents/adults with CF and their caregivers that could be sustained and shared.

Methods

Quality improvement methodology with plan-do-study-act cycles, flow diagrams, review of data monthly with our designated ‘Mental Health Team’ and caregiver satisfaction surveys, were used to begin screening in clinics and to improve the process. We then piloted our process at a larger paediatric CF centre.

Results

Prior to 2013, screening was not performed at our CF centre. After the first quarter of depression screening, 88% of adolescents and 69% of adults with CF were screened. The process was refined. By the second year, 99% of patients were screened. Anxiety screening began in year three; 97%–99% of patients were screened for both anxiety and depression in years 3–5. Annual caregiver screening rates were >95%. Screening was changed from Patient Health Questionnaire-2 (PHQ-2) to PHQ-9 due to better sensitivity in caregivers, and expanded to patients. Anxiety screening began in year 3 with the Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7 questionnaire. Patients and caregivers reported acceptance of screening. At the larger paediatric centre used as a pilot, 89.6% of patients were screened in year 1. Feedback included recommendations to improve tracking/follow-up of positive screens.

Conclusions

Development and implementation of a stepwise process for depression and anxiety screening was successful in a paediatric/adult CF clinic, due to constant re-evaluation by an engaged team with feedback from patients via survey. A systematic approach at a busy CF centre can serve as a model to implement screening in a clinic.
mHOMR: a prospective observational study of an automated mortality prediction model to identify patients with unmet palliative needs
Authors: Wegier Pete , Kurahashi Allison , Saunders Stephanie , Lokuge Bhadra , Steinberg Leah , Myers Jeff , Koo Ellen , van Walraven Carl , Downar James
Published: May 2021

Objective

Identification of patients with shortened life expectancy is a major obstacle to delivering palliative/end-of-life care. We previously developed the modified Hospitalised-patient One-year Mortality Risk (mHOMR) model for the automated identification of patients with an elevated 1-year mortality risk. Our goal was to investigate whether patients identified by mHOMR at high risk for mortality in the next year also have unmet palliative needs.

Method

We conducted a prospective observational study at two quaternary healthcare facilities in Toronto, Canada, with patients admitted to general internal medicine service and identified by mHOMR to have an expected 1-year mortality risk of 10% or more. We measured patients’ unmet palliative needs—a severe uncontrolled symptom on the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale or readiness to engage in advance care planning (ACP) based on Sudore’s ACP Engagement Survey.

Results

Of 518 patients identified by mHOMR, 403 (78%) patients consented to participate; 87% of those had either a severe uncontrolled symptom or readiness to engage in ACP, and 44% had both. Patients represented frailty (38%), cancer (28%) and organ failure (28%) trajectories were admitted for a median of 6 days, and 94% survived to discharge.

Conclusions

A large majority of hospitalised patients identified by mHOMR have unmet palliative needs, regardless of disease, and are identified early enough in their disease course that they may benefit from a palliative approach to their care. Adoption of such a model could improve the timely introduction of a palliative approach for patients, especially those with non-cancer illness.
Palliative care for homeless and vulnerably housed people: scoping review and thematic synthesis
Authors: James Richard , Flemming Kate , Hodson Melanie , Oxley Tammy
Published: May 2021

Introduction

People who are homeless or vulnerably housed are subject to disproportionately high risks of physical and mental illness and are further disadvantaged by difficulties in access to services. Research has been conducted examining a wide range of issues in relation to end-of-life care for homeless and vulnerably housed people, however, a contemporary scoping review of this literature is lacking.

Objectives

To understand the provision of palliative care for people who are homeless or vulnerably housed from the perspective of, and for the benefit of, all those who should be involved in its provision.

Design

Scoping review with thematic synthesis of qualitative and quantitative literature.

Data sources

MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Social Policy and Practice and CINAHL databases were searched, from inception to May 2020. Citation chasing and manual searching of grey literature were also employed.

Results

Sixty-four studies, involving 2117 homeless and vulnerably housed people were included, with wide variation in methodology, population and perspective. The thematic synthesis identified three themes around: experiences, beliefs and wishes; relationships; and end-of-life care.

Conclusion

Discussion highlighted gaps in the evidence base, especially around people experiencing different types of homelessness. Existing evidence advocates for service providers to offer needs-based and non-judgemental care, for organisations to use existing assets in co-producing services, and for researchers to address gaps in the evidence base, and to work with providers in transforming existing knowledge into evaluable action.
Accessing tens-to-hundreds femtoseconds nuclear state lifetimes with low-energy binary heavy-ion reactions
Authors: Ciemała M. , Ziliani S. , Crespi F. C. L. , Leoni S. , Fornal B. , Maj A. , Bednarczyk P. , Benzoni G. , Bracco A. , Boiano C. , Bottoni S. , Brambilla S. , Bast M. , Beckers M. , Braunroth T. , Camera F. , Cieplicka-Oryńczak N. , Clément E. , Coelli S. , Dorvaux O. , Erturk S. , De France G. , Fransen C. , Goldkuhle A. , Grębosz J. , Harakeh M. N. , Iskra Ł. W. , Jacquot B. , Karpov A. , Kicińska-Habior M. , Kim Y.-H. , Kmiecik M. , Lemasson A. , Lenzi S. M. , Lewitowicz M. , Li H. , Matea I. , Mazurek K. , Michelagnoli C. , Matejska-Minda M. , Million B. , Müller-Gatermann C. , Nanal V. , Napiorkowski P. , Napoli D. R. , Palit R. , Rejmund M. , Schmitt Ch. , Stanoiu M. , Stefan I. , Vardaci E. , Wasilewska B. , Wieland O. , Ziębliński M. , Zielińska M.
Published: May 2021

A novel Monte Carlo technique has been developed to determine lifetimes of excited states in the tens-to-hundreds femtoseconds range in products of low-energy heavy-ion binary reactions, with complex velocity distributions. The method is based on a detailed study of Doppler-broadened $$\gamma $$
γ
-ray lineshapes. Its relevance is demonstrated in connection with the $$^{18}\text {O}(7.0\, \text {MeV/u})+\,^{181}\text {Ta}$$

18

O

(
7.0

MeV/u
)

+

181

Ta

experiment, performed at GANIL with the AGATA+VAMOS+PARIS setup, to study neutron-rich O, C, N, ... nuclei. Excited states in $$^{17}\text {O}$$

17

O

and $$^{19}\text {O}$$

19

O

, with known lifetimes, are used to validate the method over the $$\sim 20{-}400\,\text {fs}$$

∼
20
-
400

fs

lifetime-sensitivity range. Emphasis is given to the unprecedented position resolution provided by $$\gamma $$
γ
-tracking arrays, which turns out to be essential for reaching the required accuracy in Doppler-shift correction. The technique is anticipated to be an important tool for lifetime investigations in exotic neutron-rich nuclei, produced with intense ISOL-type beams.
Fragmentation of charmed quark to double-charmed hadrons
Authors: Baranov S. P. , Kopeliovich B. Z.
Published: May 2021

We consider the production of hadrons containing two charmed quarks in pp and ee collisions. We perform a numerical comparison of the fragmentation approach with the full calculation at $${{{\mathcal {O}}}}(\alpha _s^4)$$

O
(

α
s
4

)

. We conclude that the non-fragmentation contributions remain important up to transverse momenta as large as about 40 GeV, thus making questionable the applicability of the fragmentation approximation at smaller transverse momenta.
Energy and SLA-driven MapReduce Job Scheduling Framework for Cloud-based Cyber-Physical Systems
Authors: Kaur Kuljeet , Garg Sahil , Kaddoum Georges , Kumar Neeraj
Published: May 2021

Energy consumption minimization of cloud data centers (DCs) has attracted much attention from the research community in the recent years; particularly due to the increasing dependence of emerging Cyber-Physical Systems on them. An effective way to improve the energy efficiency of DCs is by using efficient job scheduling strategies. However, the most challenging issue in selection of efficient job scheduling strategy is to ensure service-level agreement (SLA) bindings of the scheduled tasks. Hence, an energy-aware and SLA-driven job scheduling framework based on MapReduce is presented in this article. The primary aim of the proposed framework is to explore task-to-slot/container mapping problem as a special case of energy-aware scheduling in deadline-constrained scenario. Thus, this problem can be viewed as a complex multi-objective problem comprised of different constraints. To address this problem efficiently, it is segregated into three major subproblems (SPs), namely, deadline segregation, map and reduce phase energy-aware scheduling. These SPs are individually formulated using Integer Linear Programming. To solve these SPs effectively, heuristics based on Greedy strategy along with classical Hungarian algorithm for serial and serial-parallel systems are used. Moreover, the proposed scheme also explores the potential of splitting Map/Reduce phase(s) into multiple stages to achieve higher energy reductions. This is achieved by leveraging the concepts of classical Greedy approach and priority queues. The proposed scheme has been validated using real-time data traces acquired from OpenCloud. Moreover, the performance of the proposed scheme is compared with the existing schemes using different evaluation metrics, namely, number of stages, total energy consumption, total makespan, and SLA violated. The results obtained prove the efficacy of the proposed scheme in comparison to the other schemes under different workload scenarios.
DataOps for Cyber-Physical Systems Governance: The Airport Passenger Flow Case
Authors: Garriga Martin , Aarns Koen , Tsigkanos Christos , Tamburri Damian A. , Heuvel Wjan Van Den
Published: May 2021

Recent advancements in information technology have ushered a new wave of systems integrating Internet technology with sensing, wireless communication, and computational resources over existing infrastructures. As a result, myriad complex, non-traditional Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS) have emerged, characterized by interaction among people, physical facilities, and embedded sensors and computers, all generating vast amounts of complex data. Such a case is encountered within a contemporary airport hall setting: passengers roaming, information systems governing various functions, and data being generated and processed by cameras, phones, sensors, and other Internet of Things technology. This setting has considerable potential of contributing to goals entertained by the CPS operators, such as airlines, airport operators/owners, technicians, users, and more. We model the airport setting as an instance of such a complex, data-intensive CPS where multiple actors and data sources interact, and generalize a methodology to support it and other similar systems. Furthermore, this article instantiates the methodology and pipeline for predictive analytics for passenger flow, as a characteristic manifestation of such systems requiring a tailored approach. Our methodology also draws from DataOps principles, using multi-modal and real-life data to predict the underlying distribution of the passenger flow on a flight-level basis (improving existing day-level predictions), anticipating when and how the passengers enter the airport and move through the check-in and baggage drop-off process. This allows to plan airport resources more efficiently while improving customer experience by avoiding passenger clumping at check-in and security. We demonstrate results obtained over a case from a major international airport in the Netherlands, improving up to 60% upon predictions of daily passenger flow currently in place.
Deletion of Cdh16 Ksp-cadherin leads to a developmental delay in the ability to maximally concentrate urine in mouse
Authors: Thomson R. B. , Dynia D. W. , Burlein S. , Thomson B. R. , Booth C. J. , Knauf F. , Wang T. , Aronson P. S.
Published: May 2021

Ksp-cadherin (cadherin-16) is an atypical member of the cadherin superfamily of cell adhesion molecules that is ubiquitously expressed on the basolateral membrane of epithelial cells lining the nephron and the collecting system. Using knockout mice, we found that Ksp-cadherin is in fact not required for kidney development despite its high and specific expression along the nephron. However, its absence leads to a developmental delay in maximal urinary concentrating ability.
Sensitivity Enhancement of Heterocore Macrobend Fiber Optics by Adding a ZnO Film
Authors: Mohd Arif Noor Azie Azura , Berhanuddin Dilla Duryha , Ehsan Abang Annuar
Published: May 2021

Optical fibers with high sensitivity are in demand due to their great potential in sensor application. Semiconductors, such as ZnO, are good materials. Using them as a second cladding offers opportunities in realizing next-generation multimaterial fiber optics. COMSOL Multiphysics is used to simulate heterocore macrobend fiber optics with the same curvature radius but different values of refractive index and thickness of ZnO films. The optimum thickness of ZnO films is identified by determining the loss of optical fibers. Macrobend heterocore fiber optics by adding ZnO thin film has been established by simulating and interpreting the relationship in terms of transmission and refractive index in the evanescent field. These results will provide a reliable fundamental to guide the performance in practice.
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Presented as Atypical Ocular Toxoplasmosis
Authors: Khalili Pour Elias , Riazi-Esfahani Hamid , Ebrahimiadib Nazanin , Esteghamati Violet Zaker , Zarei Mohammad
Published: May 2021

Background. The aim is to report an atypical presentation of ocular toxoplasmosis which led to the diagnosis of Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Case Report. The 38-year-old woman was referred with metamorphopsia and reduced vision in the right eye over the past 3 weeks. Slit-lamp examination revealed granulomatous keratic precipitates (KPs), 2+ cells in the anterior chamber, and posterior synechiae. Fundus examination was remarkable for a white patch surrounding a scar, inferonasal to the optic disc with fibrous bands emanating from the lesion, and the retina around this region was detached with considerable extension towards the periphery, while no breaks could be appreciated. She mentioned anorexia and losing 10 kg in the past three months, and signs of anemia like paleness of face skin, bed nails, and bilateral angular cheilitis were observed on systemic evaluation. The results of the patient’s complete blood count revealed anemia and leukopenia and CD4 lymphocytes: 79 cells/μL. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) for HIV antibodies came back positive which was later confirmed with the Western blot test. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed multiple ring-enhancing lesions in both cerebral cortices. The patient underwent antitoxoplasmosis and anti-HIV treatment and serous retinal detachment completely resolved. Conclusion. This report highlights the fact that sometimes, the eyes are the site of the first presentation of a systemic life-threatening condition and emphasizes the role of ophthalmologists in such cases. In cases of atypical presentation, appropriate laboratory tests and CNS imaging should be requested. Systemic treatment with antitoxoplasmosis regimens and highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) is mandatory in AIDS patients with ocular toxoplasmosis.
[Retracted] Role of 5‐Hydroxytryptamine and Intestinal Flora on Depressive‐Like Behavior Induced by Lead Exposure in Rats
Authors: Chen Xiaojun , Meng Shujuan , Li Shuang , Zhang Lijin , Wu Lei , Zhu Hao , Zhang Yanshu
Published: May 2021

Objective. To investigate the effects of 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT) and intestinal flora on depression‐like behavior induced by lead exposure in rats. Methods. 30 healthy SPF adult male SD rats were randomly divided into control group and lead exposure group. The depression‐like behavior of rats was detected. The blood, striatum, and intestinal tissue were collected. The lead content was detected by ICP‐MS. The mRNA expressions of ChgA, TPH1, 5‐HT, and 5‐HT3R were tested by qRT‐PCR. The content of 5HT was checked by HPLC‐ECD. The content of 5‐HT3R was detected by ELISA. The protein expressions of 5‐HT, 5‐HT3R, ChgA, and TPH were gauged by immunohistochemistry. Fecal samples were collected, and the composition of intestinal flora in experimental rats was analyzed by 16 s RNA metagene sequencing. Results. Lead exposure can greatly cause depression. The content of 5‐HT in blood and striatum in the lead exposure group decreased, and the expression levels of 5‐HT, 5‐HT3 R, ChgA, and TPH in the intestine decreased distinctly. Compared with the control group, the distribution of a‐polymorphism related indexes Simpson, Chao1, Shannon, and ACE in rats with depressive‐like behavior after lead exposure was significantly increased; in the lead exposure group, there were 61 different operational taxonomic units (OUTs) in intestinal flora at the family level. Based on linear discriminant analysis, it was found that the key bacteria were Lactobacillaceae and Bifidobacteriaceae, and their abundance decreased evidently in the lead exposure group. Conclusion. Lead exposure improves depressive‐like behavior by affecting intestinal flora and regulating neurotransmitter 5‐HT through the intestinal‐brain axis.
A Novel Input Variable Selection and Structure Optimization Algorithm for Multilayer Perceptron-Based Soft Sensors
Authors: Wang Hongxun , Sui Lin , Zhang Mengyan , Zhang Fangfang , Ma Fengying , Sun Kai
Published: May 2021

A novel optimization algorithm for multilayer perceptron- (MLP-) based soft sensors is proposed in this paper. The proposed approach integrates input variable selection and hidden layer optimization on MLP into a constrained optimization problem. The nonnegative garrote (NNG) is implemented to perform the shrinkage of input variables and optimization of hidden layer simultaneously. The optimal garrote parameter of NNG is determined by combining cross-validation with Hannan-Quinn information criterion. The performance of the algorithm is demonstrated by an artificial dataset and the practical application of the desulfurization process in a thermal power plant. Comparative results demonstrated that the developed algorithm could build simpler and more accurate models than other state-of-the-art soft sensor algorithms.
Effect of the Fabrication Technique on Compressive Properties of Cu‐PTFE Composites
Authors: Tang Xuezhi , Wang Zhijun , Yin Jianping , Yi Jianya
Published: May 2021

In this paper, the effect of manufacturing methods on the compressive properties of Cu‐PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) composites was investigated. Two types of specimens were prepared through different manufacturing methods (extrusion forming and hot‐press sintering). The specimens were tested using an electrohydraulic press and split‐Hopkinson pressure bars for quasi‐static loading and dynamic impact, respectively. The specific fracture processes were recorded by using a high‐speed camera, and the failure microstructures of the specimens were analysed by SEM. According to the results, hot‐press sintered specimens have consistently higher strength and toughness under dynamic compression than the extruded specimens, while the mechanical properties of hot‐press sintered specimens are inferior to those of extruded specimens under quasi‐static compression. The failure of extruded specimens is primarily caused by the elastic mismatch between the PTFE matrix and Cu particles, as well as the polymerisation of plastic pores, which leads to particle pullout. However, the cracks in the hot‐press sintered specimens were caused by the shear deformation and interface sliding of the PTFE matrix, which led to matrix tearing.
Investigations on the Mechanical Properties of Natural Fiber Granulated Composite Using Hybrid Additive Manufacturing: A Novel Approach
Authors: Anandkumar R. , Ramesh Babu S. , Sathyamurthy Ravishankar
Published: May 2021

In this work, experiments on mechanical properties such as tensile, flexural, effects, and stiffness testing are performed on natural fiber granulated composites (NFGC) manufactured using a hybrid additive manufacturing technique. The natural fiber granulated composites are prepared using the powdered form of sugarcane, jute, ramie, banana, pineapple fiber, and seashell powder with a volume fraction of 0.8. In the hybrid additive manufacturing technique, the fused deposited modeling (FDM) machine is modified by combining with the shape deposition modeling (SDM) to print the specimens layer by layer, and the influence of the number of layers on the mechanical properties is analyzed. The results concluded that increasing the number of layers from 6 to 12 improved the mechanical properties such as tensile strength, flexural strength, impact strength, and hardness values by 40.84, 50.04, 21.55, and 20.55%, respectively. Further, a novel technique can be utilized for developing the composites in replacement with conventional methods.
Rock Burst Mechanism under Coupling Action of Working Face Square and Regional Tectonic Stress
Authors: Zhu Sitao , Ge Decheng , Jiang Fuxing , Wang Cunwen , Li Dong , Shang Xiaoguang , Zhang Baoliang , Wang Zhaoyi
Published: May 2021

With the development of faults in many coalfields, many large faults will form a relatively independent area, forming regional tectonic stress concentration. Under the influence of mining, it is easy to induce fault activation, produce mine tremor, and then induce rock burst. Through field investigation, theoretical analysis, numerical simulation, and engineering verification, the overburden movement model of No. 3504 working face square and fault activation in Liangbaosi Coal Mine was established. The stress variation and energy release law of working face advance and fault area were analyzed, and the mechanism of rock burst under the coupling action of working face square and regional tectonic stress was revealed. The results show that the regional stress adjustment and fault activation are caused by the large‐scale overall movement of overburden during the working face square, and there is a peak value of elastic energy release during the fault activation, which is easy to produce large energy mine earthquake. The energy level of the daily maximum energy event is higher than that of the initial mining stage in the square period, and the location of on‐site large energy microseismic event is basically consistent with the predicted fault strike. The study provides a theoretical basis for the prevention and control of rock burst during the working face square under the condition of regional tectonic stress.
Nanotechnology in the Treatment of Diabetic Complications: A Comprehensive Narrative Review
Authors: He Yujing , Al-Mureish Abdulrahman , Wu Na
Published: May 2021

In today’s society, the prevention and treatment of diabetes mellitus and its subsequent complications have brought trouble to human beings. Complications caused by diabetes bring not only physical and mental pain to patients but also a heavy economic burden to families. And once diabetic complications occur, they are often irreversible and very difficult. At present, some studies suggest that nanotechnology can treat some diabetic complications. This paper reviews the application of nanotechnology in the repair of diabetic segmental bone injury, the healing of diabetic skin ulcers, the therapeutic effect, and improvement strategies and deficiencies of nanotechnology in diabetic complications.
Simulation Experiment of TSR Promotes Cracking of Coal Generation H2S
Authors: Deng Qigen , Du Yinsheng , Yang Yanjie , Zhao Fajun
Published: May 2021

Thermochemical sulfate reduction (TSR) is one of the main contributors to the formation of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in coal seam strata. Four reaction systems (coal, coal+water, coal+water and MgSO4, and coal+water and MgSO4 and AlCl3) were selected and simulated from 250°C to 600°C with eight temperature steps using a high-temperature and high-pressure reaction device, and the evolution characteristics of the gaseous products of hydrocarbons (methane, C2-5) and nonhydrocarbon gases (CO2, H2, and H2S) were studied. Thermal simulation experiments showed that the TSR led to the reduction of heavy hydrocarbons, and the presence of salts accelerated the evolution of hydrocarbons; SO42-, Al3+, and Mg2+ had a certain promoting effect on the TSR, which increased the total amount of alkane gas, H2S, and CO2 production. Improving the salinity of the reaction system can promote the occurrence of TSR, and water plays a key role in hydrocarbon generation evolution and the TSR.
User Interface Designs of an Educational Mobile Application: A Study of Qiraat Teaching and Learning
Authors: Mohd Zaki Zulkifly , Ishak Syahidatul Fitriah , Mohamad Khairul Anuar
Published: May 2021

This paper reports a summative evaluation conducted for the educational mobile application called “Qiraat Sab’ah.” The prototype was developed using the Rapid Application Development (RAD) and User Experience (UX) methodologies. The prototype was improved further based on the formative evaluation feedback gathered from students, lecturers, and the public who wish to learn Qiraat through the mobile application. The summative evaluation was focused on the value and usability of the application if it is being used in a real environment. A total of 50 participants were involved in this evaluation. The result shows that most of the participants provide positive feedback on usability. One of the major highlights from the participants is that the application can be used as a supplementary teaching and learning tool for people who wish to learn Qiraat anytime and anywhere. However, further areas of expansion are needed such as including all chapters (surahs) in the Quran and tajweed indicators to the verses before it can be used for real.
Improved Dynamic Optimized Kernel Partial Least Squares for Nonlinear Process Fault Detection
Authors: Said Maroua , Taouali Okba
Published: May 2021

We suggest in this article a dynamic reduced algorithm in order to enhance the monitoring abilities of nonlinear processes. Dynamic fault detection using data-driven methods is among the key technologies, which shows its ability to improve the performance of dynamic systems. Among the data-driven techniques, we find the kernel partial least squares (KPLS) which is presented as an interesting method for fault detection and monitoring in industrial systems. The dynamic reduced KPLS method is proposed for the fault detection procedure in order to use the advantages of the reduced KPLS models in online mode. Furthermore, the suggested method is developed to monitor the time-varying dynamic system and also update the model of reduced reference. The reduced model is used to minimize the computational cost and time and also to choose a reduced set of kernel functions. Indeed, the dynamic reduced KPLS allows adaptation of the reduced model, observation by observation, without the risk of losing or deleting important information. For each observation, the update of the model is available if and only if a further normal observation that contains new pertinent information is present. The general principle is to take only the normal and the important new observation in the feature space. Then the reduced set is built for the fault detection in the online phase based on a quadratic prediction error chart. Thereafter, the Tennessee Eastman process and air quality are used to precise the performances of the suggested methods. The simulation results of the dynamic reduced KPLS method are compared with the standard one.
MiR-6869-5p Induces M2 Polarization by Regulating PTPRO in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Wang Pingping , Ma Zhenzhi , Wang Zengyan , Wang Ximei , Zhao Guifeng , Wang Zengfang
Published: May 2021

The role of microRNA (miRNA) in gestational diabetes mellitus has been widely investigated during the last decade. However, the altering effect of miR-6869-5p on immunity and placental microenvironment in gestational diabetes mellitus is largely unknown. In our study, the expression of miR-6869-5p was documented to be significantly decreased in placenta-derived mononuclear macrophages, which was also negatively related to PTPRO. Besides, PTPRO was negatively regulated by miR-6869-5p in placenta-derived mononuclear macrophages. In vitro, miR-6869-5p inhibited macrophage proliferation demonstrated by EdU and CCK-8 experiments. The inflammatory response in macrophages was also significantly inhibited by miR-6869-5p, which could regulate PTPRO as a target documented by luciferase reporter assay. Moreover, miR-6869-5p promoted M2 macrophage polarization and thus restrain inflammation. Accordingly, miR-6869-5p is involved in maintaining placental microenvironment balance by preventing from inflammation and inducing M2 macrophages in gestational diabetes mellitus.
An Optimization Approach for Mining of Process Models with Infrequent Behaviors Integrating Data Flow and Control Flow
Authors: Wang Li-li , Fang Xian-wen , Asare Esther , Huan Fang
Published: May 2021

Infrequent behaviors of business process refer to behaviors that occur in very exceptional cases, and their occurrence frequency is low as their required conditions are rarely fulfilled. Hence, a strong coupling relationship between infrequent behavior and data flow exists. Furthermore, some infrequent behaviors may reveal very important information about the process. Thus, not all infrequent behaviors should be disregarded as noise, and identifying infrequent but correct behaviors in the event log is vital to process mining from the perspective of data flow. Existing process mining approaches construct a process model from frequent behaviors in the event log, mostly concentrating on control flow only, without considering infrequent behavior and data flow information. In this paper, we focus on data flow to extract infrequent but correct behaviors from logs. For an infrequent trace, frequent patterns and interactive behavior profiles are combined to find out which part of the behavior in the trace occurs in low frequency. And, conditional dependency probability is used to analyze the influence strength of the data flow information on infrequent behavior. An approach for identifying effective infrequent behaviors based on the frequent pattern under data awareness is proposed correspondingly. Subsequently, an optimization approach for mining of process models with infrequent behaviors integrating data flow and control flow is also presented. The experiments on synthetic and real-life event logs show that the proposed approach can distinguish effective infrequent behaviors from noise compared with others. The proposed approaches greatly improve the fitness of the mined process model without significantly decreasing its precision.
Robust Video Hashing Based on Multidimensional Scaling and Ordinal Measures
Authors: Tang Zhenjun , Zhang Shaopeng , Chen Zhenhai , Zhang Xianquan
Published: May 2021

Multimedia hashing is a useful technology of multimedia management, e.g., multimedia search and multimedia security. This paper proposes a robust multimedia hashing for processing videos. The proposed video hashing constructs a high-dimensional matrix via gradient features in the discrete wavelet transform (DWT) domain of preprocessed video, learns low-dimensional features from high-dimensional matrix via multidimensional scaling, and calculates video hash by ordinal measures of the learned low-dimensional features. Extensive experiments on 8300 videos are performed to examine the proposed video hashing. Performance comparisons reveal that the proposed scheme is better than several state-of-the-art schemes in balancing the performances of robustness and discrimination.
Analysis of a Predator-Prey Model with Distributed Delay
Authors: Chandrasekar Gunasundari , Boulaaras Salah Mahmoud , Murugaiah Senthilkumaran , Gnanaprakasam Arul Joseph , Cherif Bahri Belkacem
Published: May 2021

In this paper, we consider a predator-prey model, where we assumed that the model to be an infected predator-free equilibrium one. The model includes a distributed delay to describe the time between the predator’s capture of the prey and its conversion to biomass for predators. When the delay is absent, the model exhibits asymptotic convergence to an equilibrium. Therefore, any nonequilibrium dynamics in the model when the delay is included can be attributed to the delay’s inclusion. We assume that the delay is distributed and model the delay using integrodifferential equations. We established the well-posedness and basic properties of solutions of the model with nonspecified delay. Then, we analyzed the local and global dynamics as the mean delay varies.
The Educational Needs of Family of Patients Discharged from the Intensive Care Units: The Viewpoints of Nurses and the Patients’ Families
Authors: Hajalizadeh Asma , Ahmadinejad Mehdi , Dehghan Mahlagha , Arab Mansoor
Published: May 2021

Introduction. Thousands of patients are admitted to the intensive care units annually, which are stressful for patients and their families. The discharged patients and their families face different challenges in the caring process of the patients. Objectives. This study aimed to determine the educational needs of the families of patients discharged directly home from the postintensive care units and to compare the views of families and nurses about these needs. Method. This was a cross-sectional study. One hundred forty nurses and 140 family members of the patients discharged from intensive care units participated in the survey by convenience sampling method. A questionnaire of sociodemographic information and a researcher-made questionnaire on the educational needs of the family of patients discharged from the postintensive care units were used for data collection. Results. The mean total score of the educational needs of the patients’ families was 31.81 and 35.33 from views of families and nurses, respectively. Nurses significantly estimated the educational needs of families more than what they did (

P
<
0.001

). The families and nurses reported the educational needs of self-care as well as nutrition and medicine at the highest level, respectively. Both groups reported the educational needs of defecation at the lowest level. Nurses estimated higher educational needs in all dimensions, except for the patient’s mental health and family self-care than families (

P
<
0.001

). Conclusion. According to the present study, the educational needs were high from the views of nurses and families. Family need assessment is essential in designing and applying instructional interventions. Given the high level of family needs, implementing educational and practical interventions is necessary to enhance their skills.
Application of Artificial Intelligence in the Process of Ecological Water Environment Governance and Its Impact on Economic Growth
Authors: Wei Ying
Published: May 2021

With the increasing pollution of the ecological water environment, the treatment of the ecological water environment has become the focus of everyone’s attention. At present, there are many research results on water environment governance, but the effect is not ideal. In order to effectively control the ecological water environment and promote sustainable economic growth, this research combines artificial intelligence algorithms and applies them to the governance process to explore its application effects and its impact on economic growth. First, the environmental sensor of the corresponding module is designed according to the water environment factor, and the data of dissolved oxygen content, water temperature, turbidity, temperature and humidity, and smoke concentration in the water environment are collected. Then the dynamic time-varying exponential smoothing prediction method is used to predict water quality, and a water quality prediction model is established. Then use support vector machine (SVM) to train the collected data samples, use the decision tree-based SVM classification method to classify the data samples, establish a water quality evaluation model, and use particle swarm optimization algorithm to optimize the evaluation model. Put the sensors and predictive evaluation models established in this research design into the governance of a certain river reach, and collect relevant data from 7 : 00 to 18 : 00 on October 11, 2019. And predict and evaluate its water quality. The experimental results show that the average absolute error of predicting dissolved oxygen content is 0.97%, and the average absolute error of predicting phosphorus content is 2.27%. This shows that the application of artificial intelligence algorithms in the process of ecological water environmental governance can effectively help collect effective information and make more accurate predictions and evaluations of water quality, thereby improving governance efficiency and promoting sustainable economic growth.
Numerical Study on the Mechanism and Application of Artificial Free Surfaces in Bedrock Blasting of Shield Tunnels
Authors: Qi Yanjun , Dou Linming , Dong Zhaoxing , Jiang Zheng , Meng Bo , Zhang Junzhong
Published: May 2021

During the pretreatment construction of blasting in shield tunnel bedrock, in order to reduce the impact of blasting vibration on the surrounding environment and improve the effect of rock blasting, the method of creating an artificial free surface is proposed. From the point of creating an artificial free surface, this paper numerically studies the function mechanism and parameter optimization of artificial free faces in shield tunnel bedrock blasting construction. The propagation characteristics of explosion stress waves at the interface between the rock and the artificial free face and the effect of the artificial free face on the shield tunnel bedrock blasting were analyzed. The results indicate that, as the explosion stress wave transmits to the artificial free face, a part of the stress wave is reflected back to the bedrock, increasing the energy in the bedrock that needs blasting and improving the blasting effect and utilization rate of the blasting energy. The reduction degree of the peak velocity of the surface particle is more than 50%, and the reduction degree of the peak velocity of the particle near the artificial free face is more than 77%. The existence of the artificial free face reflects the stress wave and superimposes with the original stress waves, increasing the effective stress in the blasting area, and the effective stress can be increased by 5 MPa or more. The peak vibration velocity of the surface particle decreases with an increasing diameter of the empty holes and the distance between the empty holes and the blasting holes. The parameter design value of the artificial free face is put forward: the diameter of the hole is 200 mm, the distance between the empty holes and the center of the blasting holes is 60 cm, and the depth of the empty hole is the same as the blasting hole.
Reversing Imatinib's Immunosuppressive Effects by Modulating Type I IFN Signaling
Authors: Largaespada David A.
Published: May 2021

Signal pathway inhibition is a well-validated approach for treating cancers driven by activated kinases such as KIT. However, kinase inhibitors may make tumor cells less responsive to tumor immune surveillance and less sensitive to immunotherapies. In this issue, Liu and colleagues report that, in a mouse model, inhibition of oncogenic KIT in gastrointestinal stromal tumors reduces type I interferon (IFN) production and signaling, and the effectiveness of the immune system in controlling tumor growth. They were able to partially overcome the immunosuppressive effects of KIT inhibition using agonists of the type I IFN response, pointing the way toward intelligently combining kinase inhibitors and immune modulators for therapy.

See article by Liu et al., p. 542
Galectin-1 Supports a Dangerous Liaison between Monocytes and Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Ugel Stefano , Bronte Vincenzo
Published: May 2021

In multiple myeloma, the accumulation of cells with negative immunoregulatory properties, such as monocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells (M-MDSC), has a protumoral effect. Lim and colleagues unveil a novel circuit regulating the cross-talk between M-MDSCs and cancerous plasma cells centered on the interaction between myeloma-derived galactin-1 and CD304 (neuropilin-1) on the surface of circulating M-MDSCs.

See article by Lim et al., p. 503
Two Patients with Atypical Choroidal Detachment
Authors: Fong Joseph W. , Broyles Heather V. , Atassi Nour Y. , Sallam Ahmed B. , Uwaydat Sami H.
Published: May 2021

Serous choroidal detachment that is caused by rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) may present a significant diagnostic challenge as delayed recognition and repair of the underlying RRD can severely impact the final anatomical and visual outcome. We report 2 consecutive patients with atypical choroidal detachments who were later found to have underlying RRDs. A 71-year-old female presented with a 1-week history of painful vision loss and floaters in the left eye. Examination revealed choroidal detachments in the nasal and temporal periphery and an overlying retinal detachment with shifting subretinal fluid. However, no retinal breaks were identified. An extensive laboratory workup and imaging of the orbits were unrevealing. She was treated with 80 mg oral prednisone daily for 2 weeks with subsequent resolution of the choroidals but persistence of the retinal detachment. Similarly, a 52-year-old male presented with a 3-week history of flashes and floaters followed by painful vision loss in the left eye 1 day prior to presentation. He had hand motion vision OS and the intraocular pressure was undetectable by hand-held tonometry OS. Dense brunescent cataract prevented adequate viewing of the posterior pole. B-scan ultrasonography revealed a funnel retinal detachment, with homogenous choroidal echogenicities suggestive of hemorrhagic choroidal detachment. Extensive laboratory workup was unrevealing. The patient was started on 60 mg oral prednisone and re-evaluated every 2 days, but ultrasonography revealed persistence of the choroidal detachment after 1 week. The diagnosis of RRD with an associated choroidal detachment should be considered, even in the absence of an identifiable causative retinal break.