bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antihypertensive drug effects according to the pretreatment self-measured home blood pressure: the HOMED-BP study
Authors: Sano Hikari , Hara Azusa , Asayama Kei , Miyazaki Seiko , Kikuya Masahiro , Imai Yutaka , Ohkubo Takayoshi
Published: December 2020

Objectives

To clarify whether or not the antihypertensive drug effect is proportional to the baseline pretreatment self-measured home blood pressure (HBP) in accordance with the law of initial value (Wilder’s law).

Design

A post-hoc analysis of a multicentre clinical trial.

Setting

Outpatients across Japan with mild-to-moderate essential hypertension.

Participants

Among 3518 randomised participants, 2423 who self-measured HBP during the pretreatment drug-free period (10–28 days after starting fixed-dose antihypertensive monotherapy) with a mean 7.0 years follow-up were eligible.

Main outcome measures

We analysed individual HBP readings during pretreatment and monotherapy.

Results

The day-to-day HBP during both the pretreatment period and monotherapy period remains almost the same throughout each period; the results were consistent, regardless of the pretreatment HBP. Following monotherapy, the reduction in the HBP increased by 2.2 mm Hg (95% CI: 1.8 to 2.5 mm Hg) per 10 mm Hg pretreatment HBP increase, up to 11.0 mm Hg (95% CI: 9.9 to 12.0 mm Hg) among patients with an HBP ≥165 mm Hg during pretreatment. Among the 1005 patients receiving low-dose monotherapy (defined daily dose: 0.5 units), the reduction peaked at 8.9–9.1 mm Hg in those with pretreatment HBP 155–164 mm Hg and ≥165 mm Hg (p=0.88).

Conclusions

According to Wilder’s law, the HBP reduction due to fixed-dose monotherapy was proportional to the pretreatment HBP without any regression to the mean phenomenon. With low-dose antihypertensive drugs, however, the HBP reduction peaked in patients with a high pretreatment HBP, indicating the need for such patients to receive a sufficient amount of antihypertensive drug medication at the initial treatment.

Trial registration

UMIN Clinical Trial Registry (http://www.umin.ac.jp/ctr), Unique identifier: C000000137.
Does digital health technology improve physicians’ job satisfaction and work–life balance? A cross-sectional national survey and regression analysis using an instrumental variable
Authors: Zaresani Arezou , Scott Anthony
Published: December 2020

Objectives

To examine the association between physicians’ use of digital health technology and their job satisfaction and work–life balance.

Design

A cross-sectional nationally representative survey of physicians and probit regression models were used to examine the association between using digital health technology and the probability of reporting high job satisfaction and a good work–life balance. Models included a rich set of covariates, including physicians’ personality traits, and instrumental variable analysis was used to control for bias from unobservable confounders and reverse causality.

Setting

Clinical practice settings in Australia, including physicians working in primary care, hospitals, outpatient settings, and physicians working in the public and private sectors.

Participants

Respondents to wave 11 (2018–2019) of the Medicine in Australia: Balancing Employment and Life (MABEL) longitudinal survey of doctors. The analysis sample included a broadly nationally representative sample of 7043 physicians, including general practitioners, specialists and physicians in training.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The proportion of respondents who used any digital health technology; proportion answered ‘moderately satisfied’ or ‘very satisfied’ to the statement on job satisfaction: ‘Taking everything into account, how do you feel about your work’; proportion agreeing or strongly agreeing to the statement on work–life balance: ‘The balance between my personal and professional commitments is about right.’

Results

Physicians with positive beliefs about the effectiveness of using digital health technology were 3.8 percentage points (95% CI 2.7 to 5.0) more likely to use digital health technology compared with those who did not. Physicians with colleagues who already used digital health technology were also 4.1 percentage points (95% CI 2.6 to 5.6) more likely to use digital health technology. The availability of IT support and lack of privacy concerns increased the probability of using digital health technology by 1.6 percentage points (95% CI 1.0 to 2.3) and 0.5 percentage points (95% CI 0.1 to 1.0). Physicians who used digital health technology were 14.2 percentage points (95% CI −1.3 to 29.7) and 20.3 percentage points (95% CI 2.4 to 38.1) more likely to report respectively higher job satisfaction and good work–life balance, compared with the physicians who did not use it.

Conclusions

Findings suggested digital health technology served more as a work resource than work demand for physicians who used it.
Acute food insecurity and short-term coping strategies of urban and rural households of Bangladesh during the lockdown period of COVID-19 pandemic of 2020: report of a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Das Subhasish , Rasul Md. Golam , Hossain Md Shabab , Khan Ar-Rafi , Alam Md Ashraful , Ahmed Tahmeed , Clemens John D
Published: December 2020

Introduction

We conducted a cross-sectional survey to assess the extent and to identify the determinants of food insecurity and coping strategies in urban and rural households of Bangladesh during the month-long, COVID-19 lockdown period.

Setting

Selected urban and rural areas of Bangladesh.

Participants

106 urban and 106 rural households.

Outcome variables and method

Household food insecurity status and the types of coping strategies were the outcome variables for the analyses. Multinomial logistic regression analyses were done to identify the determinants.

Results

We found that around 90% of the households were suffering from different grades of food insecurity. Severe food insecurity was higher in urban (42%) than rural (15%) households. The rural households with mild/moderate food insecurity adopted either financial (27%) or both financial and food compromised (32%) coping strategies, but 61% of urban mild/moderate food insecure households applied both forms of coping strategies. Similarly, nearly 90% of severely food insecure households implemented both types of coping strategies. Living in poorest households was significantly associated (p value <0.05) with mild/moderate (regression coefficient, β: 15.13, 95% CI 14.43 to 15.82), and severe food insecurity (β: 16.28, 95% CI 15.58 to 16.97). The statistically significant (p <0.05) determinants of both food compromised and financial coping strategies were living in urban areas (β: 1.8, 95% CI 0.44 to 3.09), living in poorest (β: 2.7, 95% CI 1 to 4.45), poorer (β: 2.6, 95% CI 0.75 to 4.4) and even in the richer (β: 1.6, 95% CI 0.2 to 2.9) households and age of the respondent (β: 0.1, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.21).

Conclusion

Both urban and rural households suffered from moderate to severe food insecurity during the month-long lockdown period in Bangladesh. But, poorest, poorer and even the richer households adopted different coping strategies that might result in long-term economic and nutritional consequences.
Social, financial and psychological stress during an emerging pandemic: observations from a population survey in the acute phase of COVID-19
Authors: Robillard Rebecca , Saad Mysa , Edwards Jodi , Solomonova Elizaveta , Pennestri Marie-Hélène , Daros Alexander , Veissière Samuel Paul Louis , Quilty Lena , Dion Karianne , Nixon Ashley , Phillips Jennifer , Bhatla Raj , Spilg Edward , Godbout Roger , Yazji Bashour , Rushton Cynda , Gifford Wendy A , Gautam Mamta , Boafo Addo , Swartz Rick , Kendzerska Tetyana
Published: December 2020

Introduction

The negative impacts of COVID-19 have rippled through every facet of society. Understanding the multidimensional impacts of this pandemic is crucial to identify the most critical needs and to inform targeted interventions. This population survey study aimed to investigate the acute phase of the COVID-19 outbreak in terms of perceived threats and concerns, occupational and financial impacts, social impacts and stress between 3 April and 15 May 2020.

Methods

6040 participants are included in this report. A multivariate linear regression model was used to identify factors associated with stress changes (as measured by the Cohen’s Perceived Stress Scale (PSS)) relative to pre-outbreak retrospective estimates.

Results

On average, PSS scores increased from low stress levels before the outbreak to moderate stress levels during the outbreak (p<0.001). The independent factors associated with stress worsening were: having a mental disorder, female sex, having underage children, heavier alcohol consumption, working with the general public, shorter sleep duration, younger age, less time elapsed since the start of the outbreak, lower stress before the outbreak, worse symptoms that could be linked to COVID-19, lower coping skills, worse obsessive–compulsive symptoms related to germs and contamination, personalities loading on extraversion, conscientiousness and neuroticism, left wing political views, worse family relationships and spending less time exercising and doing artistic activities.

Conclusion

Cross-sectional analyses showed a significant increase from low to moderate stress during the COVID-19 outbreak. Identified modifiable factors associated with increased stress may be informative for intervention development.

Trial registration number

NCT04369690; Results.
Testing the efficacy of a hospital-based violence intervention programme: protocol and design
Authors: St. Vil Christopher , Hall Erin C , Sheppard Mildred , Williams Mallory
Published: December 2020

Introduction

Hospital-based violence intervention programmes (HBVIPs) are a promising strategy to reduce trauma recidivism and promote safety among victims of violent injury. While previous studies have demonstrated cost-effectiveness and positive impact on the lives of victims, there are a number of key limitations in the study designs of this evidence base. This study seeks to address the methodological shortcomings of previous research, determine the efficacy of HBVIPs using a randomised control study design, and provide a better understanding of successful service allocation within an HBVIP.

Methods and analysis

The current study is 1 of 12 demonstration projects being implemented around the country with the purpose of bolstering the ability to provide effective, culturally appropriate and trauma-informed services for boys and men harmed by violence. We propose a randomised control trial in which male victims of violence receive one of two interventions: treatment as usual versus enhanced services. The purpose is to determine which intervention leads to reductions in trauma recidivism over the period of 1 year from contact with the programme. Differences will also be monitored on measures of mental health, quality of life and attitudes towards violence. Analyses employed will include Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression with death and recidivism being the outcomes of interest.

Ethics and dissemination

Study procedures have been approved by the Institutional Review Boards of the University at Buffalo and four hospitals. Results will be submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
Melatonin inhibits vascular endothelial cell pyroptosis by improving mitochondrial function via up-regulation and demethylation of UQCRC1
Authors: Zeng Junfa , Tao Jun , Xia Linzhen , Zeng Zhaolin , Chen Jiaojiao , Wang Zuo , Meng Jun , Liu Lushan
Published: December 2020

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that involves cell death and endothelial dysfunction. Melatonin is an endocrine hormone with anti-inflammatory and anti-AS effects. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms for the anti-AS effects of melatonin are unknown. A previous study has shown that pyroptosis plays a detrimental role in the development of AS, therefore, this study was designed to investigate the anti-pyroptotic effects and potential mechanisms of melatonin in atherosclerotic endothelium. Our results show that melatonin attenuated the expression of genes related to pyroptosis, including NLRP3, caspase-1, and IL-1β, in human umbilical vein endothelial cells treated with oxidized low-density lipoprotein. Furthermore, melatonin up-regulated the expression of ten-eleven translocation 2 (TET2), inhibited the methylation of ubiquinol-cytochrome c reductase core protein 1 (UQCRC1), and reduced pyroptosis. The up-regulation of UQCRC1 by melatonin improved mitochondrial function, thereby inhibiting oxidative stress and endothelial cell pyroptosis. Collectively, our results indicate that melatonin prevents endothelial cell pyroptosis by up-regulating TET2 to inhibit the methylation of UQCRC1 and improving mitochondrial function.
Introducing the inverse hoop conjecture for black holes
Authors: Hod Shahar
Published: December 2020

It is conjectured that stationary black holes are characterized by the inverse hoop relation $${\mathcal {A}}\le {\mathcal {C}}^2/\pi $$

A
≤

C

2

/
π

, where $${\mathcal {A}}$$
A
and $${\mathcal {C}}$$
C
are respectively the black-hole surface area and the circumference length of the smallest ring that can engulf the black-hole horizon in every direction. We explicitly prove that generic Kerr–Newman–(anti)-de Sitter black holes conform to this conjectured area-circumference relation.
ASSESSING THE POTENTIAL INFLUENCE OF DIFFERENT WALKING STRATEGIES ON PLANTAR PRESSURE DISTRIBUTION TRIGGERED BY A PORTABLE BIOFEEDBACK-BASED GAIT TRAINING DEVICE
Authors: YING JI-MING , CHEN WEN-MING , WANG DUO-JIN , WANG ZE-SHENG
Published: December 2020

Plantar pressure refers to the interfacial contact pressure between the foot and the supporting surface during daily locomotor activities. Information derived from plantar pressure measures is essential in gait and posture research for diagnosing patho-mechanics associated with the musculoskeletal diseases. In particular, it is compulsory to reduce the abnormally high plantar pressure in people with diabetes for the prevention and treatment of foot ulcerations in this population. In this study, a portable biofeedback-based gait training device is developed to advocate able-bodied subjects to adopt different movement patterns in walking to manipulate the plantar pressure distribution under the foot. Through the simultaneous detection of the plantar pressure pattern and the kinematics of the lower extremity joints, it was revealed that the unloading effects for the plantar site in particular to the lateral forefoot subareas were more abundant through biofeedback-assisted gait alterations than the self-awareness control for gait adjustment. In addition, the corresponding relationship between joint coordination and pressure redistribution pattern was obtained, which could potentially be used in gait retraining interventions to correct abnormal plantar pressure patterns in people with diabetes.
DESIGN AND CHARACTERIZATION OF A MINIATURE THREE-AXIAL MEMS FORCE SENSOR
Authors: LI JING , ZHANG ZE , DUAN BIAO , SUN HUANYU , ZHANG YANLONG , YANG LIN , DAI MENG
Published: December 2020

This paper reports the design, fabrication and calibration results of a miniature cross-shaped three-axial piezoresistive force sensor, which can simultaneously detect three force components in orthogonal directions. MEMS technology was used to fabricate the sensor structure and deposit a phosphosilicate layer on the silicon wafer to form piezoresistive resistors. Using the finite element simulation, the developed sensor performance characteristics, such as linearity, repeatability, sensitivity, and hysteresis, are analyzed for different arrangements of eight piezoresistors on the silicon beam surface. The sensor performance was experimentally validated by monitoring the voltage variation of Wheatstone bridge when a load-bearing rigid rod was loaded in three different directions by a set of weights. Calibration results exhibited linear output responses with the maximum linearity of 0.98 and small crosstalk below 7%. The MEMS sensor repeatability was tested with a commercial stepper motor by measuring a step function-varying profile force was applied to the sensor. Further optimization of the sensor design for sensing six degrees of freedom movement is envisaged with its sensitivity enhancement by the silicon substrate reduction.
The Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome in Ethiopian Population: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Ambachew Sintayehu , Endalamaw Aklilu , Worede Abebaw , Tegegne Yalewayker , Melku Mulugeta , Biadgo Belete
Published: December 2020

Background. The metabolic syndrome is a clustering of hyperglycemia/insulin resistance, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and obesity which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke, and all-cause mortality. The burden of metabolic syndrome is emerging alarmingly in low- and middle-income countries such as Ethiopia; however, there is lack of comprehensive estimation. This study aimed to determine the pooled prevalence of metabolic syndrome in Ethiopia. Methods. This systematic review and meta-analysis included original articles of observational studies published in the English language. Searches were carried out in PubMed, Google Scholar, and Africa Journals from conception to August 2020. A random-effects model was used to estimate the pooled prevalence of metabolic syndrome in Ethiopia. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic. Subgroup analysis was also conducted based on sex/gender and study subjects. Egger’s test was used to assess publication bias. Results. Electronic and gray literature search retrieved 942 potentially relevant papers. After removing duplicates and screening with eligibility criteria, twenty-eight cross-sectional studies were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of metabolic syndrome in Ethiopia was found to be 34.89% (95% CI: 26.77, 43.01) and 27.92% (95% CI: 21.32, 34.51) by using NCEP/ATP III and IDF criteria, respectively. The weighted pooled prevalence of metabolic syndrome was higher in females 36.74% (95% CI: 20.72, 52.75) and 34.09% (95% CI: 26.68, 41.50) compared to males 22.22% (95% CI: 14.89, 29.56) and 24.82% (95% CI: 18.34, 31.31) by using IDF and NCEP/ATP III criteria, respectively. Subgroup analysis based on the study subjects using NCEP/ATP III showed that the weighted pooled prevalence was 63.78%(95% CI: 56.17, 71.40), 44.55% (95% CI: 30.71, 52.38), 23.09% (95% CI: 19.74, 26.45), 20.83% (95% CI: 18.64, 23.01), and 18.45% (95% CI: 13.89, 23.01) among type 2 diabetes patients, hypertensive patients, psychiatric patients, HIV patients on HAART, and working adults, respectively. The most frequent metabolic syndrome components were low HDL-C 51.0% (95% CI: 42.4, 59.7) and hypertriglyceridemia 39.7% (95% CI: 32.8, 46.6). Conclusions. The findings revealed an emerging high prevalence of metabolic syndrome in Ethiopia. Therefore, early intervention is required for the primary prevention of the occurrence of metabolic syndrome and the further reduction of the morbidity and mortality related to it.
Signal Reconstruction Based on Probabilistic Dictionary Learning Combined with Group Sparse Representation Clustering
Authors: Liang Bin , Liu Shuxing
Published: December 2020

In order to make full use of nonlocal and local similarity and improve the efficiency and adaptability of the NPB-DL algorithm, this paper proposes a signal reconstruction algorithm based on dictionary learning algorithm combined with structure similarity clustering. Nonparametric Bayesian for Dirichlet process is firstly introduced into the prior probability modeling of clustering labels, and then, Dirichlet prior distribution is applied to the prior probability of cluster labels so as to ensure the analyticity and conjugation of the probability model. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm is not only superior to other comparison algorithms in numerical evaluation indicators but also closer to the original image in terms of visual effects.
Risk Identification and Responses of Tunnel Construction Management during the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Wang Zhimin , Liu Zixiao , Liu Junyan
Published: December 2020

The COVID‐19 pandemic has brought about significant influences to the world, including tunnel construction. Based on the analysis of 12 tunnel construction projects, this paper identifies the specific risk factors related to the COVID‐19 pandemic, e.g., men, materials, machines, methods, social environment, and political epidemic prevention pressure. Among these risk factors, worker availability, site accessibility, shortage of construction materials, and inadequate epidemic prevention materials caused by the lockdown policy are the most fundamental challenges encountered by the projects. Social panic and epidemic prevention policy requirements are key issues needed to be addressed before the resumption of construction work. The special circumstances caused by the COVID‐19 pandemic called for flexible project management and coordination skills to raise suitable and effective response strategies, while local governments make substantial contributions in solving the difficulties. Although these measures have resulted in higher project costs, their effectiveness in catching up with project schedules is worthy of recognition. The findings of this study enrich the risk categories of tunnel construction and the risk response strategies from the perspective of a global pandemic. It implies that future construction schemes including design, budget, supply chain, and project management should consider the possible influence of an epidemic.
User Acceptance of Internet of Vehicles Services: Empirical Findings of Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) and Fuzzy Sets Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA)
Authors: Liang Yikai , Zhang Guijie , Xu Feng , Wang Weijie
Published: December 2020

Recently, IoV-based services and vehicles have come to the forefront as part of the growing market for the automobile industry. Since IoV-based services and vehicles were introduced, they have been expected to grow rapidly. However, contrary to optimistic expectations for future market growth, the IoV-based services and vehicles market has appeared to hit a roadblock and remains at an early market stage. Therefore, research of the determinants leading to consumers’ intention to accept and purchase IoV-based services and vehicles is significant for either academics or practitioners. Drawing upon the extended unified theory of acceptance and use of technology acceptance model (UTAUT2), the perceived risk theory, and the initial trust model, we developed an integrated conceptual model and explored what and how various determinant antecedent conditions fit together on consumer intention to accept IoV-based services and vehicles. The proposed model and hypotheses were assessed by both symmetric (partial least square structural equation modeling, PLS-SEM) and asymmetric (fsQCA) approaches using online survey datasets with 362 Chinese consumers. The findings suggest that PLS-SEM and fsQCA are complementary analytical techniques providing comparable results. PLS-SEM results indicate that performance expectancy, price value, habit, and initial trust have significant effects on behavioral intention to accept IoV services. Despite other determinants, e.g., effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, hedonic motivation, and perceived risk, have no significant effect. FsQCA results reveal twelve different configurations of determinants resulting in a high level of behavioral intention to accept IoV services, and eight causal paths equifinally leading to the negation of behavioral intention to accept IoV services. These findings suggest that several conditions that were not significant in PLS-SEM are sufficient conditions when combined with other conditions. This study enriches relevant research studies on IoV-based services acceptance and provides relevant insights and marketing suggestions for incentivizing consumers to accept the IoV-based services.
Expression of Toll‐Like Receptors in the Animal Model of Bladder Outlet Obstruction
Authors: Niemczyk Grzegorz , Fus Lukasz , Czarzasta Katarzyna , Jesion Anika , Radziszewski Piotr , Gornicka Barbara , Cudnoch-Jedrzejewska Agnieszka
Published: December 2020

Introduction. Bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) occurs in more than 20 percent of the adult population and may lead to changes in the structure and function of the bladder. The main objective of the study was to evaluate the expression of Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR 4) and Toll‐like receptor 9 (TLR 9) in the animal model of BOO as potential triggers of the inflammation phase in the bladder. In addition, the modulating effect of alpha‐1 adrenergic antagonist (tamsulosin) on TLR 4 and TLR 9 expression and inflammatory markers was assessed. Material and Methods. Thirty‐two male, 9‐week‐old Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: SOP—sham‐operated rats with a placebo (water); SOB—sham‐operated rats with an alpha‐1 adrenergic antagonist; BOOP—rats with BOO and a placebo; and BOOB—rats with BOO and an alpha‐1 adrenergic antagonist. The rats were given a placebo or alpha‐1 adrenergic antagonist for 15 days. Next, urine and the bladder were collected from the rats for histopathological and biochemical study. Results. Histopathological analysis showed chronic inflammation without acute inflammation in the bladder. TLR 4 showed positive cytoplasmic reactivity in the urothelium and the smooth muscles of the bladder. TLR 9 showed positive cytoplasmic reactivity only in the urothelium. BOO caused an increase in TLR 4 and TLR 9 expression. Furthermore, treatment with an alpha‐1 adrenergic antagonist had no significant effect on TLR 4 and TLR 9 expression in rats with BOO. BOO caused a significant increase in urine concentration of interleukin 6 (IL‐6), while alpha‐1 antagonist reduced the urine concentration of IL‐6 and the concentration of interleukin 18 (IL‐18). Conclusions. The results suggest the participation of TLR 4 and TLR 9 receptors in the induction of inflammation in the bladder, which is the first phase in the development of pathophysiological changes in BOO.
Systemic Use of Arnica Montana for the Reduction of Postsurgical Sequels following Extraction of Impacted Mandibular 3rd Molars: A Pilot Study
Authors: Mawardi Hani , Ghazalh Shaima , Shehatah Ahmad , Abdelwahid Amnah , Aljohani Amin , Felemban Osama , Almazrooa Soulafa , Elbadawi Lena , Shawky Hazem
Published: December 2020

Background. Postsurgical sequels (PSS) are a group of complications commonly encountered following invasive dental surgical procedures such as bone grafting procedures, external sinus grafting, and 3rd molar extractions. These include pain, intraoral and extraoral bruising, and edema. The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical efficacy of arnica montana (AM) in the management of PSS following extraction of impacted mandibular 3rd molars. The investigators null hypothesis includes no significant role of AM in reducing PSS following dental extraction. Materials and Methods. The investigators implemented a case‐control pilot study enrolling twenty‐three patients with impacted mandibular 3rd molars. These patients were allocated to AM or control group. Baseline clinical measurements were collected and included: (1) length of the surgical procedure, (2) pain score, (3) maximum mouth opening, and (4) facial measurements to evaluate edema levels. Subjects in active group received systemic AM tablets following the manufacturer instructions. All study subjects were followed up on Days 2, 4, and 7. Data was analyzed for statistical significance. Results. A total of 30 impacted mandibular 3rd molars were extracted, in which 22 completed with AM. There were 16 females, and the average age was 26 years. On Day 2, subjects in the AM group reported significantly lower VAS compared to control group (3.09 ± 2.22 versus 4.75 ± 1.28). In addition, bleeding, extraoral bruising, edema, and decrease in maximum mouth opening were significantly less reported in the AM group. Conclusions. This study describes the potential benefit of AM in reducing PSS following dental extractions.
Robust State Estimation for a Nonlinear Hybrid Model of the Alternating Activated Sludge Process Using Filtered High-Gain Observers
Authors: Boudagga Afef , Dimassi Habib , Hadj-Said Salim , M’Sahli Faouzi
Published: December 2020

In this paper, a robust state estimation method based on a filtered high-gain observer is developed for the alternating activated sludge process (AASP) considered as a nonlinear hybrid system. Indeed, we assume that the biodegradable substrate and the ammonia concentrations in the AASP model are unmeasured due to the high cost of their sensors whose maintenance is also very expensive. The observer design is based on the association of the classical high-gain observer and the idea of the application of linear filters on the observation error to deal with measurement noise. It is shown through a Lyapunov analysis that the designed observer ensures the estimation of the unmeasured states (the biodegradable substrate and the ammonia concentrations) based on the measured dissolved oxygen and nitrate concentrations subject to noise. A comparison with the classical high-gain observer is performed via numerical simulations in order to show the robustness of the suggested estimation approach against Gaussian measurement noise.
Inguinal Lymph Node Dissection for Advanced Stages of Plantar Melanoma in a Low-Income Country
Authors: Somé Ollo Roland , Diallo Malick , Konkobo Damien , Yabré Nassirou , Konségré Valentin , Konaté Issouf , Ka Sidy
Published: December 2020

Background. Advanced stages of plantar acral lentiginous melanoma are common in Africa. Inguinal lymph node dissection (ILND) in these cases plays a critical role in disease-free and overall survival. Our study aims to share our experience in ILND for advanced plantar melanomas. Methods and Study Design. Four-year prospective study. Patients. We included all documented cases of advanced stage plantar melanoma with clinically detectable inguinal lymph node metastasis. Twenty-two of 27 patients identified—with mean age 56 years—underwent ILND. Studied Variables. Tumor patterns and stage, surgery, morbidity, oncologic pathology, and evolution were studied. Statistical software assessed the overall survival (OS). Results. Plantar lesions were all excised with a cancer-free margin (3 cm). ILND was performed for 22 patients with visible (n = 11), palpable (n = 7), and ulcerous (n = 4) lymphadenopathies. It was performed through an S-shaped (n = 11) or ellipse-shaped skin incision (n = 11). The tumors were AJCC stage III (n = 18) and IV (n = 2). We found high Breslow index tumor thickness (>3 mm) and an advanced Clark IV stage (n = 20). All operative wounds healed within 46 days (21–90). Wound healing was delayed by suture failure (n = 16), lymphorrhoea (n = 22), and infection (n = 18). After 29 months, three patients had complete remissions, seven had recurrences, and twelve patients had died. The overall survival (OS) at one year was 56%. In two patients with AJCC stage III disease, the OS was better (22 months). Conclusion. In low-income countries, ILND in advanced stages of plantar foot melanoma is a valuable surgical treatment option. Alongside ILND adjuvants, treatment must be available and accessible to improve survival.
Detection of Snore from OSAHS Patients Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Shen Fanlin , Cheng Siyi , Li Zhu , Yue Keqiang , Li Wenjun , Dai Lili
Published: December 2020

Obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) is extremely harmful to the human body and may cause neurological dysfunction and endocrine dysfunction, resulting in damage to multiple organs and multiple systems throughout the body and negatively affecting the cardiovascular, kidney, and mental systems. Clinically, doctors usually use standard PSG (Polysomnography) to assist diagnosis. PSG determines whether a person has apnea syndrome with multidimensional data such as brain waves, heart rate, and blood oxygen saturation. In this paper, we have presented a method of recognizing OSAHS, which is convenient for patients to monitor themselves in daily life to avoid delayed treatment. Firstly, we theoretically analyzed the difference between the snoring sounds of normal people and OSAHS patients in the time and frequency domains. Secondly, the snoring sounds related to apnea events and the nonapnea related snoring sounds were classified by deep learning, and then, the severity of OSAHS symptoms had been recognized. In the algorithm proposed in this paper, the snoring data features are extracted through the three feature extraction methods, which are MFCC, LPCC, and LPMFCC. Moreover, we adopted CNN and LSTM for classification. The experimental results show that the MFCC feature extraction method and the LSTM model have the highest accuracy rate which was 87% when it is adopted for binary-classification of snoring data. Moreover, the AHI value of the patient can be obtained by the algorithm system which can determine the severity degree of OSAHS.
Research on Collision Point Identification Based on Six-Axis Force/Torque Sensor
Authors: Wang Zhijun , Liu Lu , Yan Wenkai , He Jing , Cui Bingyan , Li Zhanxian
Published: December 2020

The collision detection algorithm of the robot body previously needed to rely on the surface geometry information of the colliding object and no deformation was allowed during the collision process. To solve this problem, a new robot body collision detection algorithm that uses the force information of the six-axis force/torque sensor at the base to self-constrain is proposed which does not rely on the geometric information of the colliding object surface, and the deformation also allows deformation during the collision. In terms of sensor data preprocessing, a gravity and dynamic force compensation algorithm for the six-axis force/torque sensor at the base is proposed to ensure that the reading of the six-axis force/torque sensor at the base always maintains the value of 0 when the robot is working. Then, the robot is considered to have collided with the outside world when the sensor reading exceeds the set threshold. And a precision factor is proposed to analyze the influence of force and collision distance on the accuracy of the algorithm. Finally, the new algorithm proposed in this paper is compared with the traditional algorithm that relies on the geometric information of the colliding body surface. The experimental results indicate that the accuracy of the collision point detection algorithm proposed in this paper is close to that of the traditional method, but it does not need to rely on the geometric information of the collision body surface, and there is no requirement for whether there is deformation during the contact process. It can be concluded that the collision distance is the most important factor affecting the accuracy of the algorithm, followed by the conclusion of the magnitude of the collision force through the calculation of the precision factor. The results show that this method can effectively detect the collision point of the machine body, and the maximum error at the farthest point of the robot is 8.712%, which lays a certain foundation for the subsequent research on human-machine collaboration in small collaborative robots.
Effects of Anticoagulants on Experimental Models of Established Chronic Liver Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Rui , Huang Xiaoquan , Jiang Yingyi , Wang Jian , Chen Shiyao
Published: December 2020

Objective. The role of anticoagulants in chronic liver diseases is inconclusive. A meta-analysis was thus undertaken to evaluate treatment-related survival and antifibrotic effects in animal models of chronic liver diseases. Methods. A systematic search of the literature took place (up to November 2020), screening for preclinical studies that evaluated anticoagulant effects in animal models of chronic liver diseases. We assessed the quality of methods and the certainty of evidence. Data on outcomes were extracted and pooled into random-effects models. Results. Sixteen studies proved eligible, each assessing anticoagulant use in animals with chronic liver diseases. Generally, the pooled evidence demonstrated that the administration of anticoagulants is preventive against fibrogenesis, as indicated by METAVIR fibrosis scores (risk ratio = 0.66, 95% confidence interval: 0.47 to 0.94), portal pressure determinations (mean difference = −1.39, 95% confidence interval: −2.33 to −0.44), inflammatory activity (mean difference = −169.69, 95% confidence interval: −257.64 to −81.74), and indices of hepatic injury, specifically alanine aminotransferase (mean difference = −82.7, 95% confidence interval: −107.36 to −58.04), aspartate aminotransferase (mean difference = −186.12, 95% confidence interval: −254.90 to −117.33), albumin (mean difference = 0.59, 95% confidence interval: 0.16 to 1.01), and total bilirubin (mean difference = −0.96, 95% confidence interval: −1.46 to −0.46), and it had no impact on animal survival (risk ratio = 1.03, 95% confidence interval: 0.94 to 1.13). Conclusions. Our assessments indicate that in animal models of chronic liver diseases, anticoagulants may alleviate the degree of fibrosis evaluated by the METAVIR score system, portal pressure, inflammatory activity, and serum indices of hepatocellular injury, without impacting survival. High-quality experimental studies are still required.
PITX2 DNA-Methylation: Predictive versus Prognostic Value for Anthracycline-Based Chemotherapy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Napieralski Rudolf , Schricker Gabriele , Auer Gert , Aubele Michaela , Perkins Jonathan , Magdolen Viktor , Ulm Kurt , Hamann Moritz , Walch Axel , Weichert Wilko , Kiechle Marion , Wilhelm Olaf G.
Published: December 2020

Background: PITX2 DNA methylation has been shown to predict outcomes in high-risk breast cancer patients after anthracycline-based chemotherapy. To determine its prognostic versus predictive value, the impact of PITX2 DNA methylation on outcomes was studied in an untreated cohort vs. an anthracycline-treated triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cohort. Material and Methods: The percent DNA methylation ratio (PMR) of paired-like homeodomain transcription factor 2 (PITX2) was determined by a validated methylation-specific real-time PCR test. Patient samples of routinely collected archived formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue and clinical data from 144 TNBC patients of 2 independent cohorts (i.e., 66 untreated patients and 78 patients treated with anthracycline-based chemotherapy) were analyzed. Results: The risk of 5- and 10-year overall survival (OS) increased continuously with rising PITX2 DNA methylation in the anthracycline-treated population, but it increased only slightly during 10-year follow-up time in the untreated patient population. PITX2 DNA methylation with a PMR cutoff of 2 did not show significance for poor vs. good outcomes (OS) in the untreated patient cohort (HR = 1.55; p = 0.259). In contrast, the PITX2 PMR cutoff of 2 identified patients with poor (PMR >2) vs. good (PMR ≤2) outcomes (OS) with statistical significance in the anthracycline-treated cohort (HR = 3.96; p = 0.011). The results in the subgroup of patients who did receive anthracyclines only (no taxanes) confirmed this finding (HR = 5.71; p = 0.014). Conclusion: In this hypothesis-generating study PITX2 DNA methylation demonstrated predominantly predictive value in anthracycline treatment in TNBC patients. The risk of poor outcome (OS) correlates with increasing PITX2 DNA methylation.
Albinism in Natrix tessellata (Serpentes: Natricidae)
Authors: Papezikova Simona , Oselsky Milan , Papezik Petr , Jablonski Daniel
Published: December 2020

Albinism in Natrix tessellata (Serpentes: Natricidae). The Dice Snake, Natrix tessellata, varies in color and pattern, and has several color morphs. Except for melanism, color aberrations are quite rare in the species. Of the two published records of albinism in N. tessellata, the first, from the mid–19th century in Italy is dubious; the second is from Israel. Herein, albinism in juvenile N. tessellata from Slovakia is documented, and the occurrence of albinism in all species of European snakes is discussed.
Multimodal signaling in Boana albopunctata (Anura: Hylidae): reading visual and acoustic cues
Authors: Lourenço Andréa Rösel de , Haddad Célio F. B. , Sá Fábio P. de
Published: December 2020

Multimodal signaling in Boana albopunctata (Anura: Hylidae): reading visual and acoustic cues. The acoustic mode of communication is important for anurans, but visual communication is beginning to be considered essential for some species, genera, and families. This study focuses on visual and acoustic signals in Boana albopunctata (Hylidae: Cophomantinae) in an attempt to increase our understanding of signaling in this nocturnal Neotropical treefrog. Visual signals were assessed to determine whether they are directed toward conspecific opponents, as has already been observed for some diurnal anurans, or associated with potential morphological asymmetries. Associations between visual and acoustic signals were explored. The results suggest that males may combine visual and acoustic signals (multimodal signaling) synergistically, thereby strengthening the efficiency of information transmission. Thus, in nocturnal anuran species, visual signals may function primarily as an alerting component and multimodal signaling may be a relevant way of communication.
Russian Preference for Red Printed Cotton from Central Asia and Industrialization
Authors: Shiotani Masachika
Published: December 2020

The industrialized countries had unfavorable natural circumstances in comparison with Asia. But, as Europe had a preference for Indian commodities, it tried to find ways to import-substitute them. As a result, Europe created science and technology, constructed the transatlantic trade system and import-substituted Indian printed cotton. As Russia also tried to import-substitute “red” printed cotton from Central Asian, it achieved its early industrialization. Thus, it can be concluded that when a certain national ongoing appreciation or preference persists for a long time (in this case, three centuries), even if circumstances are unfavorable, obstacles can eventually be overcome and the object in question obtained, even if indirectly. In the case of Russia, their preference for “red” printed cotton from Central Asia promoted the modern cotton industry.
Diversified Energy Use in Twentieth-Century Japanese Households
Authors: Shimanishi Tomoki
Published: December 2020

This article examines the popularization process of rentan and mametan (cylindrical anthracite briquettes and anthracite briquette balls) in Japanese households. It points out that the scarcity of wood and charcoal and the supply of anthracite and molasses (used as an adhesive) from Asian countries encouraged the invention and implementation of such new types of fuels in the interwar period. They were widely accepted because they did not change conventional energy use habits. The study also shows that until the diffusion of imported fluid fossil fuels such as oil and gas in the 1960s, those kinds of briquettes had been supporting the energy consumption of family units as transitional energy. In other words, while Japan was experiencing a so-called “energy revolution” from coal to oil in the industrial sector, the use of diverse energy sources continued in the household sector. These two different paths of energy consumption played a role in mitigating overall energy constraints and concurrently sustaining a high economic growth.
Characterizing the Relationship between Temperature and Soil Moisture Extremes and Their Role in the Exacerbation of Heat Waves over the Contiguous United States
Authors: Benson David O. , Dirmeyer Paul A.
Published: December 2020

Increased heat-wave frequency across the United States has led to the need for improved predictability of heat-wave events. A detailed understanding of land–atmosphere interactions and the relationship between soil moisture and temperature extremes could provide useful information for prediction. This study identifies, for many locations, a threshold of soil moisture below which there is an increase in the sensitivity of atmospheric temperature to declining soil moisture. This shift to a hypersensitive regime causes the atmosphere to be more susceptible to atmospherically driven heat-wave conditions. The soil moisture breakpoint where the regime shift occurs is estimated using segmented regression applied to observations and reanalysis data. It is shown that as the soil gets drier, there is a concomitant change in the rate of decrease in latent heat flux and increase in sensible heat flux leading to a strong positive feedback of increased air temperature near the surface, which further dries out the soil. Central, southwestern, and southeastern parts of the United States seem to have regions of clear regime shifts, while the eastern part of the United States generally does not get dry enough to reveal significant breakpoints. Sensible heat flux is seen to be a primary driver of this increased temperature sensitivity aided by the drop in latent heat flux. An investigation of flux tower sites verifies the breakpoint–flux relationships found in reanalysis data. Accurate estimation of these breakpoints can contribute to improved heat-wave prediction.
Factors Influencing Implementation of a Workplace Tobacco Cessation Intervention in India: A Qualitative Exploration
Authors: Gupte Himanshu A. , D’Costa Marina , Ramanadhan Shoba , Viswanath Kasisomayajula
Published: December 2020

Background:

Tobacco use is projected to cause more than 8 million deaths annually worldwide by 2030 and is currently linked to 1 million annual deaths in India. Very few workplaces provide tobacco cessation as a part of occupational health in India. In this study, we examined promoters and barriers to implementing an evidence-based tobacco cessation program in a workplace setting in India.

Methods:

In-depth interviews were conducted with all facilitators (two program coordinators and four counselors) of a workplace tobacco cessation intervention covering implementation efforts in five organizations, including three manufacturing units and two corporate settings.

Findings:

The identified promoters for implementation of the program were as follows: (a) workplaces that provided access to many individuals, (b) high prevalence of tobacco use that made the intervention relevant, (c) core components (awareness sessions, face-to-face counseling and 6-months follow-up) that were adaptable, (d) engagement of the management in planning and execution of the intervention, (e) employees’ support to each other to quit tobacco, (f) training the medical unit within the workplace to provide limited advice, and (g) efforts to advocate tobacco-free policies within the setting. Barriers centered around (a) lack of ownership from the workplace management, (b) schedules of counselors not matching with employees, (c) nonavailability of employees because of workload, and (d) lack of privacy for counseling.

Conclusion/Implications for Practice:

This study provided practical insights into the aspects of planning, engaging, executing and the process of implementation of a tobacco cessation intervention in a workplace setting. It provided guidance for an intervention within occupational health units in similar settings.