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There is still no established therapeutic solution for postoperative Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) after cataract surgery, in spite of progress in surgical techniques. Diquafosol tetrasodium (DQS), a recently developed ophthalmic solution, has been reported to be effective in DES, but no study evaluated post-cataract surgery lipid layer thickness (LLT) changes in healthy patients who used DQS postoperatively. We randomly divided participants into two groups; the DQS group was treated six times daily with DQS after cataract surgery, and the sodium hyaluronate (HA) group was treated with HA in the same way. Throughout study period, the DQS group showed significantly higher tear break up time (TBUT) and LLT than HA group. In multivariate analysis, better preoperative TBUT, Schirmer’s I test score, ocular surface disease index (OSDI) score, and LLT were significantly associated with improved postoperative outcomes in each parameter. Also, the postoperative use of DQS served as an independent parameter of better TBUT, OSDI score, and LLT in postoperative 15 weeks. Treatment with 3% DQS following cataract surgery showed more improvement in TBUT and LLT, compared with 0.1% HA. Improving TBUT and LLT preoperatively and using 3% DQS postoperatively, could be a reliable choice for managing DES after cataract surgery.Trial Registration: ISRCTN registry with ISRCTN 18755487.

Objective The aim of the present study was to compare the obstetric history and both two- and tri-dimensional ultrasound parameters according to different cervical lengths. Methods The present cross-sectional study analyzed 248 midtrimester pregnant women according to cervical length and compared the data with the obstetric history and 2D/3D ultrasound parameters. Patients were divided into 3 groups according to cervical length: The Short Cervix group for cervical lengths ≥ 15mm and< 25mm(n= 68), the Very Short Cervix group for cervical lengths< 15mm (n = 18) and the Control group, composed of 162 pregnant women with uterine cervical lengths ≥ 25mm. Results When analyzing the obstetric history of only non-nulliparous patients, a significant association between the presence of a short cervix in the current pregnancy and at least one previous preterm birth was reported (p = 0.021). Cervical length and volume were positively correlated (Pearson coefficient = 0.587, p < 0.0001). The flow index (FI) parameter of cervical vascularization was significantly different between the Control and Very Short Cervix groups. However, after linear regression, in the presence of volume information, we found no association between the groups and FI. Uterine artery Doppler was also not related to cervical shortening. Conclusion The present study showed a significant association between the presence of a short cervix in the current pregnancy and at least one previous preterm birth. None of the vascularization indexes correlate with cervical length as an independent parameter. Uterine artery Doppler findings do not correlate with cervical length. Resumo Objetivo O objetivo do presente estudo foi comparar a história obstétrica e os parâmetros bi- e tridimensionais ultrassonográficos de acordo com os diferentes comprimentos cervicais. Métodos O presente estudo transversal analisou 248 gestantes no segundo trimestre de acordo com o comprimento cervical e comparou os dados com a história obstétrica e os parâmetros ultrassonográficos 2D/3D. As pacientes foram divididas em 3 grupos de acordo com o comprimento do colo uterino: grupo Colo Curto para comprimentos cervicais ≥ 15mm e < 25mm (n = 68), grupo Colo Muito Curto para comprimentos cervicais < 15mm (n = 18) e grupo Controle, composto por 162 gestantes com comprimento cervical uterino ≥ 25 mm. Resultados Ao analisar a história obstétrica apenas de pacientes não nulíparas, foi relatadauma associação significativa entre a presença de colo uterino curto na gravidez atual e pelo menos um episódio de parto prematuro anterior (p = 0,021). Comprimento e volume do colo uterino foram correlacionados positivamente (coeficiente de Pearson = 0,587, p < 0,0001). O parâmetro índice de fluxo (IF) da vascularização cervical foi significativamente diferente entre os grupos Controle e Colo Muito Curto. Entretanto, após regressão linear, na presença de informações de volume, não encontramos associação entre os grupos e o parâmetro IF. Também não foi encontrada relação entre o Doppler da artéria uterina e o encurtamento cervical. Conclusão O presente estudo mostrou uma associação significativa entre a presença de colo uterino curto na gravidez atual e pelo menos um episódio de parto prematuro anterior. Nenhum dos índices de vascularização se correlaciona com o comprimento cervical como parâmetro independente, assim como o Doppler da artéria uterina também não está relacionado ao comprimento do colo uterino.

The particular characteristics of contents generated by computers and the frequent scene change in screen content videos make the exiting R- $\lambda $ model in the rate control be not suitable to encode screen content videos. A novel rate control scheme designed for screen content videos coding (SCC) is proposed in this paper. Text blocks, screen image blocks and nature image blocks in screen content videos can result in different bitrate-distortion (R-D) relationships. A content-based rate control method is put forward at Coding Tree Unit (CTU) level for this reason. Three independent parameter update modes are adopted for three different types of CTUs according to their corresponding R-D relationship. Furthermore, frequent scene change in screen content videos needs a novel bit allocation scheme for precise rate control. In view of this, the frames in the screen content videos are classified into scene changed frames and scene unchanged frames. Different bit allocation methods are adopted for different types of frames on the basis of inter frame and intra frame complexity. Besides, a region level bit allocation algorithm considering the inter frame continuity and the numbers of different types of CTUs is added between frame level and CTU level bit allocation schemes. Experimental results show that our proposed rate control algorithm respectively achieves 0.88 dB BDPSNR and 1.54 dB BDPSNR increase under the Low Delay coding structure on average, compared with the default rate control algorithm with hierarchical and non-hierarchical bit allocation in the HEVC-SCC.

Summary: Backgrounds & aims: Nutritional status of patients with chronic liver disease has been gaining prominence since it is directly associated to morbidity and mortality. However, there is still no consensus on the best method for nutritional assessment given the great variability of body composition and the several stages of the disease. The objective was to compare different methods of nutritional evaluation of subjects with chronic viral hepatitis (CVH), including handgrip strength (HGS) and adductor pollicis muscle thickness (APMT), as well as their influence factors. Methods: This cross-sectional study enrolled sixty-nine non-cirrhotic patients with CVH by B or C viruses. Subjects were evaluated and classified through subjective global assessment (SGA), anthropometry, HGS and APMT. Each parameter was compared between gender by chi-square test, and by T test within the categories of SGA. Finally, simple correlation and multivariate linear regression were performed to obtain the strength of association of the collected variables and HGS. Results: According to the SGA, one-third were considered at nutritional risk (SGA-B). Nutritional risk was found in 59.4%, 65.2% and 88% based on HGS, mid-arm muscle circumference (MAMC) and APMT, respectively. The dominant APMT obtained a mean of 17.2 ± 5.4 mm vs 16.2 ± 4.6 mm of the non-dominant hand. On the other hand, the dominant HGS had a mean of 27.3 ± 11.2 vs 24.2 ± 11.0 of the non-dominant HGS. APMT and HGS values for any limb were significantly higher in males, but below thresholds patterns described for any gender. The HGS of both hands were correlated with sex, age, weight, height, MAMC, tricipital skinfold and APMT (p

To provide normal values for physiological patellofemoral tracking in a representative group of healthy individuals, as well as sex differences, using real-time 3T-magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and to test for the reliability of the presented technique.One hundred knees of healthy individuals with no history of patellofemoral symptoms were scanned with dynamic MRI sequences, during repetitive cycles of flexion (40°) and full extension. Within a 30-seconds time-frame, three simultaneous, transverse slices were acquired. Dynamic mediolateral patellar translation (dMPT) and dynamic patellar tilt (dPT) were measured on two occasions by two independent examiners. Common radiological parameters were measured using static MRI, and correlations were calculated.100 knees (53 right, 47 left; age: 26.7 ± 4.4 years; BMI: 22.5 ± 3.1) of 57 individuals (27 females, 30 males) were included. Mean height was 170.1 ± 7.7 cm in women and 181.8 ± 6.4 cm in men. Average patella diameter was 37.9 ± 2.7 (95% CI 37.1-38.7) mm in women and 42.4 ± 3.2 (95% CI 41.5-43.3) mm in men. In females, the patellar diameters and intercondylar distances were significantly smaller than in males (P.001). Radiological parameters for patellar maltracking were within the normal range. During the range of motion, mean dMPT was 1.7 ± 2.4 (95% CI .9-2.5) mm in females and 1.8 ± 2.7 (95% CI 1.1-2.6) mm in males (P = .766). Mean dPT was 1.3 ± 2.9° (95% CI .4-2.1°) in females and -0.2 ± 3.8° (95% CI -1.2-.9°) in males (P = .036). Neither dMPT nor dPT was correlated with height, BMI, or patellar diameter. Intercondylar distance correlated weakly with dPT (r = -.241; P = .041). Intra- and interrater reliability were excellent for dMPT and dPT.Dynamic mediolateral patellar translation is a size- and sex-independent parameter for proximal patellar tracking. In healthy individuals without patellofemoral abnormalities normal dMPT proximal to the trochlea groove was 1.7 ± 2.5 (1.2-2.2) mm, independent of size or sex. Normal dPT showed a dependency on sex and was 1.3 ± 2.9 (.4-2.1)° in women and -0.2 ± 3.8 (-1.2-0.9)° in men.Level II, diagnostic study.

Estimating flow resistance is essential for the hydraulic analysis of a river and the evaluation of conveyance in a specific flow condition. Under bed-load transport conditions, the resista...

Parameter estimation is crucial for phase retrieval in Fourier ptychographic microscopy. We cast this task as object detection problem in frequency space, thus permitting the use of a neural network that performs with unprecedented accuracy.

Background: To investigate the relationship between ureteral wall thickness (UWT) and other variables of patients who underwent extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) in the primary treatment of the ureteral stone above the iliac crest level. Material and methods: A total of 147 patients aged 18 years and older, who underwent SWL in our clinic between December 2016 and December 2019 for the treatment of ureteral stones above the iliac crest level and had a non-contrast-enhanced abdominal computed tomography (NCCT) scans before the procedure were included in the clinical study. The results were evaluated at three months after SWL. The absence of residual fragments was considered as stone-free status, and the existence of any size residual fragment was considered as treatment failure. Results: In our study, the mean age of the patients was 42.4 ± 12.8 years, and the stone-free rate was 92.5%. The median transverse stone size was 7.5 mm (min 2.8 - max 15), and the median UWT was 4.2 mm (1 - 8.7). In the multivariate analysis, UWT (p = 0.002) and multiple stone presence (p = 0.027) were found to be independent factors affecting stone-free status. In the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, the optimal threshold value for UWT was determined as 5.25 mm. Conclusions: We found that UWT was the most important independent variable associated with increased failure in SWL treatment. The presence of multiple stones was another independent factor that increased failure rates. Using SWL technology through experience accumulated with the mechanical hardware of the machine, we can select patients who are more suitable for this treatment and improve treatment outcomes.

Background To develop a radiomics signature for predicting overall survival (OS)/progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with medulloblastoma (MB), and to investigate the incremental prognostic value and biological pathways of the radiomics patterns. Methods A radiomics signature was constructed based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) from a training cohort (n = 83), and evaluated on a testing cohort (n = 83). Key pathways associated with the signature were identified by RNA-seq (GSE151519). Prognostic value of pathway genes was assessed in a public GSE85218 cohort. Findings The radiomics-clinicomolecular signature predicted OS (C-index 0.762) and PFS (C-index 0.697) better than either the radiomics signature (C-index: OS: 0.649; PFS: 0.593) or the clinicomolecular signature (C-index: OS: 0.725; PFS: 0.691) alone, with a better calibration and classification accuracy (net reclassification improvement: OS: 0.298, P = 0.022; PFS: 0.252, P = 0.026). Nine pathways were significantly correlated with the radiomics signature. Average expression value of pathway genes achieved significant risk stratification in GSE85218 cohort (log-rank P = 0.016). Interpretation This study demonstrated radiomics signature, which associated with dysregulated pathways, was an independent parameter conferring incremental value over clinicomolecular factors in survival predictions for MB patients. Funding A full list of funding bodies that contributed to this study can be found in the Acknowledgements section.

Robot arm manipulation with reinforcement learning is an active research area. Immitation learning from human is one of the most curious till date to researchers. Demonstration video based learning becomes a challenge when the view angle becomes an independent parameter. Using third person view of some similar task and robot’s third person view, many complex actions can be trained using time coherence property of similar features from TCN (Time Contrastive Network). Learning and controlling a manipulator using its dynamics very difficult and time consuming process. So in this paper we are using kinematic model based PID control for model based arm control. Model free control is implemented based on novel Reward based Random Exploration (RRE) algorithm. This model based and model free updates are memorized and uses it to complete the task.

We aimed to investigate the correlation between neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and pathologic complete response (pCR) and survival outcomes in human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative breast cancer patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The baseline NLR was evaluated in non-metastatic, HER2-negative breast cancer patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Baseline NLR was calculated as absolute neutrophil per lymphocyte count from pre-treatment blood samples. Any value ≥ 2.74 was considered to be a high NLR. In the 1,097 patients studied, 272 (24.4%) had high NLR and 825 (75.6%) had low NLR. The high NLR was an independent factor for pCR (OR 0.595; 95% CIs 0.398–0.890; P = 0.011). Furthermore, high NLR was a significant independent parameter affecting DFS (HR 2.298; 95% CIs 1.691–3.124; P P = 0.010). Regardless of the baseline NLR, survival outcomes were excellent in patients who achieved pCR, but high NLR was associated with worse survival for patients with residual invasive disease. Our study showed that NLR was predictive for treatment response and a prognostic factor in patients with HER2-negative breast cancer who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Moreover, we identified that high NLR was associated with poor survival outcomes in patients who did not achieve pCR.

To illustrate tumor contour irregularity on preoperative imaging with a practical method and further determine its value in predicting disease-free survival (DFS) in patients with pRCC (papillary renal cell carcinoma). We performed a retrospective single-institution review of 267 Chinese pRCC patients between March 2009 and May 2019. Contour irregularity on cross-section was classified into smooth but distorted margin, unsmooth and sharply nodular margin, and blurred margin. Then, the ratio of the cross-section numbers of irregularity and the total tumor was defined as the contour irregular degree (CID). Cox regression and Kaplan-Meier analysis were performed to analyze the impact of CID on DFS. Then, the prognostic performance of CID was compared with pRCC risk stratification published by Leibovich et al. The median follow-up was 45 months (IQR: 23–69), in which 27 (10%) patients had metastasis or recurrence. Observed DFS rates were 95%, 90%, and 88% at 1, 3, and 5 years. The CID was an independent prognostic factor of DFS (HR = 1.048, 95% CI = 1.029–1.068, p < 0.001). The Kaplan-Meier plot showed that high-risk patients (CID ≥ 50%) tended to have a significantly shorter DFS (p < 0.001). The CID and Leibovich’s pRCC model for DFS prediction had a C-index of 0.934 (95% CI = 0.907–0.961) and 0.833 (95% CI = 0.739–0.927) respectively. With our standard and practical method, the CID can be a reliable imaging marker for DFS prediction in patients with pRCC. • The updated contour irregularity was an independent parameter for predicting disease-free survival in patients with pRCC. • High-risk pRCC patients (contour irregular degree ≥ 50%) tended to have a shorter disease-free survival. • Tumor contour irregularity in pRCC risk stratification outperformed Leibovich’s model from our cohort.

This paper presents elaborated optimization process for lobed petals of a novel affordable setup capable of climbing staircases. Completely innovative method of specifically built wheels is already presented by the authors in their previous research paper. This setup uses driving wheels similar to lobe cam. The outline of each cam is conjugate to the staircase. Number of petals was an independent parameter. So it was important to select suitable number of petals for the projected setup. Standard process of ‘Design of Experiments’ is adopted for deciding the appropriate number of petals. Last section presents results of the study.

A combined technology between Iron-carbon micro-electrolysis (ICME) and H2O2 using scrap iron and granular active carbon was extensively investigated and optimized (three main independent parameters chosen) for chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal of landfill leachate reverse osmosis (RO) concentration by batch experiments. A regression quadratic equation was developed to model the outcome using central composite design (CCD) coupled with response surface methodology. A global optimization method–the convex optimization was applied to determine the optimal parameters. Under optimal parameters determined as C/Fe (Surface area) of 717143.8, H2O2 concentration of 1687.6 mg/L and pH of 3.8, the corresponding COD removal efficiency was up to 86.9%. Consequently, the COD in the effluent was less than 300 mg/L. The treated water can meet the level B standards of Wastewater Quality Standards for Discharge to Municipal Sewers (CJ 343—2010).

Interferometric SAR is sensitive to earth surface undulation. The accuracy of interferometric parameters plays a significant role in precise digital elevation model (DEM). The interferometric calibration is to obtain high-precision global DEM by calculating the interferometric parameters using ground control points (GCPs). However, interferometric parameters are always calculated jointly, making them difficult to decompose precisely. In this paper, we propose an interferometric calibration method based on independent parameter decomposition (IPD). Firstly, the parameters related to the interferometric SAR measurement are determined based on the three-dimensional reconstruction model. Secondly, the sensitivity of interferometric parameters is quantitatively analyzed after the geometric parameters are completely decomposed. Finally, each interferometric parameter is calculated based on IPD and interferometric calibration model is established. We take Weinan of Shanxi province as an example and choose 4 TerraDEM-X image pairs to carry out interferometric calibration experiment. The results show that the elevation accuracy of all SAR images is better than 2.54 m after interferometric calibration. Furthermore, the proposed method can obtain the accuracy of DEM products better than 2.43 m in the flat area and 6.97 m in the mountainous area, which can prove the correctness and effectiveness of the proposed IPD based interferometric calibration method. The results provide a technical basis for topographic mapping of 1 : 50000 and even larger scale in the flat area and mountainous area.

A Master equation has been previously obtained which allows the analytic integration of a fairly large family of functions provided that they possess simple properties. Here, the properties of this Master equation are explored, by extending its applicability to a general range of an independent parameter. Examples are given for various values of the parameter using Riemann's Zeta function as a template to demonstrate the utility of the equation. The template is then extended to the derivation of various sum rules among the zeros of the Zeta function as an example of how similar rules can be obtained for other functions., Comment: 22 pages, 2 figures

We show for the first time that a magnetic field can act as an independent parameter to accelerate the Kirkendall effect in a liquid reaction system. By taking silicon-based nanospheres as a model, it was demonstrated that a magnetic field could efficiently reduce the time of the Kirkendall effect processes at relatively low reaction temperatures. The hollow structure of the product obtained after 5 h under a magnetic field of 1 T is the same as that obtained after 24 h without a magnetic field.

REM sleep is known to be closely associated with behavioral problems in children. Our previous study showed that children with decreased REM sleep (REM 10%) suffered from severe sleep-disordered breathing (SDB). In this study we explored the characteristics of behavioral problems in children with SDB and decreased REM sleep.A total of 223 children were enrolled in the study. Sleep was evaluated by Polysomnography (PSG). Behavioral problems were assessed by a Chinese version of Child Behavior Checklist (parent-reported). Parameters of SDB and behavioral problem scores (internalizing, externalizing, and total scores) were compared between the children with decreased REM (REM 10%) and those with REM ≥ 10% before and after controlling overweight/obesity and obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS). Parameters of SDB were also compared between the normal behavior group and the abnormal behavior group. The correlation between the behavioral problems and the sleep parameters was analyzed.The children with decreased REM sleep (10%) had more severe externalizing and total behavioral problems, even when controlled for overweight/obesity. The abnormal behavior group had significantly shorter total sleep time and REM sleep compared to the normal behavior group.Children with SDB and decreased REM sleep showed more severe behavioral problems, especially the externalizing behavioral problems. The behavioral problems can be aggravated by insufficient total sleep. Decreased REM sleep in children may be an independent parameter that is associated with the behavioral problems in children with SDB.

A series of low carbon steel specimens is investigated in the frame of a chain of magnetic non-destructive measurements on round robin samples, organized by the Universal Network for Magnetic Non-Destructive Evaluation. The samples have been plastically deformed by cold rolling to five consecutive stages of deformation. They were examined by several different nondestructive magnetic methods and the results were compared with each other and with the destructive mechanical measurements of Vickers hardness and ductile-brittle transition temperature. Very well correlated and qualitatively very similar relations between the magnetic and mechanical parameters were found in all cases, and for all the methods. Difference between the results of different measurements was found only in the sensitivity of the measurement with respect to the independent parameter, which is a promising message for the potential practical applications and possible future standardization of magnetic nondestructive methods.

Irregular interdigitated morphology is prevalent in biological sutures in nature. Suture complexity index has long been recognized as the most important morphological parameter to govern the mechanical properties of biological sutures. However, the suture complexity index alone does not reflect all aspects of suture morphology. The goal of this investigation was to determine that besides suture complexity index, whether the degree of morphological irregularity of biological sutures has influences on the mechanical properties, and if there is any, how to quantify these influences. To explore these issues, theoretical and finite element (FE) suture models with the same suture complexity index but different levels of morphological irregularity were developed. The quasi-static stiffness, strength for damage initiation and post-failure process of irregular sutures were studied. It was shown that for the same suture complexity index, when the level of morphological irregularity increases, the overall strain to failure will increase while tensile stiffness is retained; also, the total energy to fracture increases with a sacrifice in strength to damage initiation. These results reveal that morphological irregularity is another important independent parameter to govern and balance the mechanical properties of biological sutures. Therefore, from the mechanics point of view, the prevalence of irregular suture morphology in nature is a merit, not a defect.

A comprehensive database of the polyaxial compressive strength of eight sandstones has been compiled from the literature. An experimental study has also been conducted on local sandstone to add up to the database. A correlation-based analysis has been performed to find out the influence of each independent parameter namely uniaxial compressive strength (UCS, σci), minor principal stress (σ3), and intermediate principal stress (σ2) on the strength of sandstone, i.e., the major principal stress at failure (σ1). Additionally, a feed-forward back-propagating neural network (FFBPNN) has been proposed as a new polyaxial strength model to predict the strength of intact sandstone under polyaxial states of stresses. The database on polyaxial strength of 192 experiments on nine different sandstones has been randomly divided into a training set and a testing set. Three input parameters corresponding to the independent parameters (σci, σ3, σ2) and one output parameter corresponding to the dependent parameter (σ1) are considered. The accuracy of the proposed ANN based polyaxial strength model has been compared with five other conventional polyaxial criteria: modified Wiebols and Cook criterion (MWC), Mogi-Coulomb criterion (MC), modified Lade criterion (ML), 3D version of Hoek-Brown criterion (3DHB) and modified Mohr–Coulomb criterion (MMC). It is found that the ANN based failure model gives the best result amongst all the considered polyaxial strength criteria, for the testing dataset.

Subsurface geological formation properties often involve some degree of uncertainty. Thus, for most conditions, uncertainty quantification and data assimilation are necessary for predicting subsurface flow. The surrogate model based method is one common type of uncertainty quantification method, in which a surrogate model is constructed for approximating the relationship between model output and model input. Based on the prediction ability, the constructed surrogate model can be utilized for performing data assimilation. In this work, we develop an algorithm for implementing an iterative ensemble smoother (ES) using the surrogate model. We first derive an iterative ES scheme using a regular routine. In order to utilize surrogate models, we then borrow the idea of Chen and Oliver (2013) to modify the Hessian, and further develop an independent parameter based iterative ES formula. Finally, we establish the algorithm for the implementation of iterative ES using surrogate models. Two surrogate models, the PCE surrogate and the interpolation surrogate, are introduced for illustration. The performances of the proposed algorithm are tested by synthetic cases. The results show that satisfactory data assimilation results can be obtained by using surrogate models that have sufficient accuracy.

We show that double sums of the form $$\displaystyle \sum _{i,j=-n} ^{n} |i^sj^t(i^k-j^k)^\beta | \binom {2n} {n+i} \binom {2n} {n+j} $$ can always be expressed in terms of a linear combination of just four functions, namely \(\binom {4n}{2n}\), \({\binom {2n}n}^2\), \(4^n\binom {2n}n\), and 16n, with coefficients that are rational in n. We provide two different proofs: one is algorithmic and uses the second author’s computer algebra package Sigma; the second is based on complex contour integrals. In many instances, these results are extended to double sums of the above form where \(\binom {2n}{n+j}\) is replaced by \(\binom {2m}{m+j}\) with independent parameter m.

In this paper we explore fundamental problems in randomized communication complexity such as computing Set Intersection on sets of size $k$ and Equality Testing between vectors of length $k$. Saglam and Tardos and Brody et al. showed that for these types of problems, one can achieve optimal communication volume of $O(k)$ bits, with a randomized protocol that takes $O(\log^* k)$ rounds. Aside from rounds and communication volume, there is a \emph{third} parameter of interest, namely the \emph{error probability} $p_{\mathrm{err}}$. It is straightforward to show that protocols for Set Intersection or Equality Testing need to send $\Omega(k + \log p_{\mathrm{err}}^{-1})$ bits. Is it possible to simultaneously achieve optimality in all three parameters, namely $O(k + \log p_{\mathrm{err}}^{-1})$ communication and $O(\log^* k)$ rounds? In this paper we prove that there is no universally optimal algorithm, and complement the existing round-communication tradeoffs with a new tradeoff between rounds, communication, and probability of error. In particular: 1. Any protocol for solving Multiple Equality Testing in $r$ rounds with failure probability $2^{-E}$ has communication volume $\Omega(Ek^{1/r})$. 2. There exists a protocol for solving Multiple Equality Testing in $r + \log^*(k/E)$ rounds with $O(k + rEk^{1/r})$ communication, thereby essentially matching our lower bound and that of Saglam and Tardos. Our original motivation for considering $p_{\mathrm{err}}$ as an independent parameter came from the problem of enumerating triangles in distributed ($\textsf{CONGEST}$) networks having maximum degree $\Delta$. We prove that this problem can be solved in $O(\Delta/\log n + \log\log \Delta)$ time with high probability $1-1/\operatorname{poly}(n)$.

Introduction. Patellar instability (PI) is a common finding in children. Current parameters describing patellofemoral joint alignment do not account for knee size. Additionally, most parameters utilize joint-crossing tibiofemoral landmarks and are prone to errors. The aim of the present study was to develop a knee size-independent parameter that is suitable for pediatric or small knees and determines the malpositioning of the distal patellar tendon insertion solely utilizing tibial landmarks. Methods. Sixty-one pediatric knees were included in the study. The tibial tubercle posterior cruciate ligament distance (TTPCL) was measured via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The tibial head diameter (THD) was utilized as a parameter for knee size. An index was calculated for the TTPCL and THD (TTPCL/THD). One-hundred adult knees were analyzed to correlate the data with a normalized cohort. Results. The THD was significantly lower in healthy females than in males (69.3 mm ± 0.8 mm vs. 79.1 mm ± 0.7 mm; p<0.001) and therefore was chosen to serve as a knee size parameter. However, no gender differences were found for the TTPCL/THD index in the healthy adult study cohort. The TTPCL/THD was significantly higher in adult PI patients than in the control group (0.301 ± 0.007 vs. 0.270 ± 0.007; p=0.005). This finding was repeated in the PI group when the pediatric cohort was analyzed (0.316 ± 0.008 vs. 0.288 ± 0.010; p=0.033). Conclusion. The TTPCL/THD index represents a novel knee size-independent measure describing malpositioning of the distal patellar tendon insertion determined solely by tibial landmarks.

Exact Solov'ev equilibria for arbitrary plasma cross-sections are calculated using a constrained least-squares method. The boundary, with or without $X$-points, can be specified with an arbitrarily large number of constraints to ensure an accurate representation. Thus, the order of the polynomial basis functions in the homogeneous solution of the Grad-Shafranov equation becomes an independent parameter determined only by the accuracy requirements of the overall solution. Examples of exact, highly-shaped equilibria are presented., 12 pages, 3 figures v2: In Eq. 7 and in the captions for Figs. 2 and 3, the constants A and C have been switched

Background: Increase in circulating dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4) activity and levels has been reported to associate both with hyperglycemia and obesity. Here we aim to decipher the role of enhanced plasma DPP4 activity in obese type 2 diabetes (T2DM) patients. Materials and methods: Plasma DPP4 levels and activity were measured in obese and non-obese newly diagnosed T2DM patients (n = 123). Visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue DPP4 expression and activity were determined in 43 obese subjects (T2DM = 21 and non-T2DM = 22). 20 subjects undergoing Mini-Gastric Bypass (MGB) surgery were followed up over 4-6 weeks for plasma DPP4. Results: Plasma DPP4 levels and activity both were increased in T2DM patients compared to control group. However, DPP4 levels and not DPP4 activity were increased in obese T2DM patients compared to non-obese T2DM (62.49 ± 26.27 μg/ml vs. 48.4 ± 30.98 μg/ml, respectively, p = 0.028). DPP4 activity in visceral adipose tissue (VAT) from obese T2DM and obese non-T2DM groups were similar (5.05 ± 3.96 nmol/min/ml vs. 5.83 ± 4.13 nmol/min/ml respectively, p = 0.548) in spite of having increased DPP4 expression in the obese T2DM group. Moreover, in obese patients, plasma DPP4 levels and activity did not show any significant change after weight reduction and glycemic control following MGB surgery. Conclusion: Enhanced plasma DPP4 activity in T2DM occurs independently of obesity. Thus, adipose derived DPP4 may not be playing any significant role in glycemic deregulation in obese T2DM patients.

Background: To study the usefulness of transcerebellar diameter measurement ultrasonographically for the detection of gestational age in normal and intra uterine growth restricted fetuses and compare the gestation age determined by transcerebellar diameter with that determined by other parameters i.e. biparietal diameter, head circumference, abdominal circumference and femur length. Subjects and Methods: A prospective study with ultrasonographic evaluation of five hundred antenatal patients in gestational age of 14-39 weeks. The transcerebellar diameter was measured and the corresponding gestational age determined. The gestational age was also determined with other parameters such as biparietal diameter, head circumference, abdominal circumference and femur length. Transcerebellar circumference to abdominal circumference ratio was calculated. Results: There is statistically significant relationship between Transcerebellar diameter and gestational age in normal and intra uterine growth retarded pregnancies. Transcerebellar diameter showed good correlation with gestational age (correlation coefficient=0.979) in case of normal pregnancies and( correlation coefficient=0.942 )in cases of intra uterine growth retarded pregnancies Gestational age estimated by transverse cerebellar diameter measurements correlated well with gestational age estimated by biparietal diameter, head circumference, abdominal circumference and femur length. Transcerebellar circumference to abdominal circumference ratio remained fairly constant. Conclusion: Transcerebellar diameter can be used as a independent growth parameter to predict the gestational age in normal and in intrauterine growth retarded pregnancies cases. Transcerebellar diameter to abdominal circumference ratio is fairly constant throughout gestation and thus it is a useful gestational age independent parameter.

Over the last decade, the evolution of block backward differentiation formulas (BBDF) has involved the modifications of the formulation techniques in order to solve ordinary differential equations (ODEs). Better still, if the modified methods have the ability of computing solutions efficiently with any prescribed parameter. Therefore, this research focuses on the derivation of 2-point variable step block backward differentiation formulas (VSBBDF) that possesses independent parameter in the coefficients. In this formula, each block contains two points, which compute two approximate solutions simultaneously. Varying the value of parameter will lead to multiple choice of solutions with different level of accuracy. Since the method is derived using variable step size scheme, the strategy in controlling the step size ratio is also discussed. The capability of the derived method is demonstrated by solving initial value problem of stiff ODEs. A comparison of its performance with several existing methods is made to shed light on the superiority and shortcomings of VSBBDF with respect to independent parameter.

Coalescence modelling in liquid/liquid dispersions is a challenging task and field of investigations up to now, which becomes apparent when comparing the various existent models with their different and partly even contradictive implementation of influencing factors. In this work, systematic investigations of single drop coalescence were used to compare and validate different coalescence efficiency models regarding the important influencing parameters relative collision velocity and drop size. The impact of these parameters could be analysed independently from each other for the first time and used to identify the best modelling approach. Moreover, the numerical parameter of the coalescence efficiency model could be obtained based on single drop experiments. Using this determined parameter the simulation of drop size distributions within a lab scale stirred vessel was possible. The presented method offers the possibility of independent parameter estimation for population balance equation simulations based on single drop experiments. The application of this systematic approach allows the separate validation of submodels and reliable parameter determination by small scale investigations. On this basis a sound scale-up is possible using population balance equation simulations. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Temperature (T)-dependent optical response of gold nanoparticle (NP) dimer of radii, 5–60 nm surrounded by air medium is simulated and studied using finite element method (FEM). Temperature-dependent damping parameter from Drude-Lorentz dielectric model having contribution from different scattering mechanisms and volume expansion is taken into consideration for studying surface plasmon resonance (SPR) behavior. A red shift and band broadening of SPR is observed with increase in temperature for all sizes with significant shift for dimer of radii 40–60 nm. A size-independent parameter is extracted from the study, showing similar temperature-dependence, irrespective of dimer size, and can be used as an important parameter in temperature sensing.

The performance of ductile fracture criteria often depends on the accuracy of material constants identification. Calibration process of three uncoupled phenomenological models was analysed. All of them contain the strain hardening exponent which is related to material plasticity as one of the fracture criteria parameter. More flexibility, better approximation of the fracture locus and more convenient shape of the fracture envelope might be reached when the strain hardening exponent is considered as another independent parameter of the fracture criteria in the identification process. Results are illustrated on the example of two structural steels, AISI 316L and AISI 1045, respectively.

Morris water maze has been widely used for analysis of cognitive functions and relies on the time taken by animal to find the platform i.e. escape latency as a parameter to quantify spatial memory and learning. However, escape latency is confounded by swimming speed which is not necessarily a cognitive factor. Rather, path length may be a more appropriate and reliable parameter to assess spatial learning. This paper presents fractal dimension as a new paradigm to assess spatial memory and learning in animals. Male wistar rats were administrated with pentylenetetrazole and scopolamine to induce chronic epilepsy and dementia respectively. Fractal dimension of the random path followed by the animals on Morris water maze was analyzed and statistically compared among different experimental groups; the results suggest that fractal dimension is more reliable and accurate parameter to assess cognitive deficits compared to escape latency. Thus, the present study suggests that fractal dimensions could be used as an independent parameter to assess spatial memory and learning in animals using Morris water maze.

The decision to design a frame structure to bridge over a column lost due to accidental loading has obvious impacts on construction costs. Moreover, not all structures are potential targets of hazards likely leading to column loss events. In this context, we propose a formulation for risk-based cost-benefit analysis of design for load bridging over failed columns. The formulation combines normal with abnormal loading conditions, treating column loss probability as an independent parameter. The proposed formulation is employed in design of continuous beams, typical RC floors and regular frame structures. The study reveals the conditions for load bridging design in frame structures to be cost-effective. We show that column loss probabilities play a major role in optimal design and reinforcement decisions. The proposed formulation allows optimal design of frame structures addressing competition between failure modes. Under discretionary column removal, competition between local bending and local pancake failures is typical of regular frame buildings, as stronger beams favor pancake compression failures.

This article present a mathematical study of solar air heaters roughened with three different turbulent promoters. In this study, arc-shaped ribs, broken arc-shaped ribs, and arc shape ribs present in ‘S’ shape form are considered as turbulent promoters. In this research work, the numerical modeling of solar air heater is conducted in MATLAB. Thermal efficiency amplification factor \( (\eta_{\text{th}} /\eta_{\text{ths}}) \), effective efficiency amplification factor \( (\eta_{\text{eff}} /\eta_{\text{effs}}) \), and exergetic efficiency amplification factor \( (\eta_{\text{ex}} /\eta_{\text{exs}}) \) are considered as performance factors. The temperature rise parameter (ΔT/I) is the only independent parameter considered in this study and it varies from 0.0001 to 0.0151. Solar air heater with arc-shaped ribs roughness has higher values of thermal efficiency amplification factor \( (\eta_{\text{th}} /\eta_{\text{ths}}) \), effective efficiency amplification factor \( (\eta_{\text{eff}} /\eta_{\text{effs}}) \), and exergetic efficiency amplification factor \( (\eta_{\text{ex}} /\eta_{\text{exs}}) \) than other two turbulent promoters. Arc-shaped ribs create high heat transfer rate with least exergetic losses of all the three turbulent promoters.

Background: Dr. Edward Bishop developed the original bishop score. He concluded that elective induction in multiparous women was successful with a score > 8. Calder introduced the modified bishop score in which he replaced cervical effacement with cervical length in cms. Score of 6-12 is favourable. In this study, studied the cervical effacement/ length as an independent predictor of vaginal delivery in a primigravida.Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted from May 2018 to January 2019. Total participants were divided into two groups on the basis of spontaneous labor and induced labor. Both the groups were assessed individually and collectively in terms of cervical effacement/length and modified bishop score. Study primary outcome was vaginal delivery. The results were reflected in terms of sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV. These values were compared for cervical effacement/ length as well as modified bishop score and p value calculated. Also, association between modified bishop score and cervical effacement/length was established.Results: Total number of participants included was n = 91. Those with modified bishop score > 6, 78.16% had vaginal delivery. This gave a sensitivity of 78.16%, specificity of 50%, PPV of 97.14%. Those with cervical effacement of >/=50% or cervical length of /= 50% had modified bishop score >/= 6, reflecting the association between them.Conclusions: Cervical effacement of >/= 50% or cervical length

Introduction Previous auditory experience modifies the sensitivity of the auditory cortex to the afferent activity of the auditory pathways and may influence the threshold (T) and comfort (C) levels in patients receiving a cochlear implant (CI). Literature data on this particular topic is very scarce. Objective This study aimed to evaluate the differences in T/C-levels between pre- and postlingually implanted cochlear implant patients. Methods Retrospective case review in a quaternary otologic referral centre was performed. Data on the T/C-levels have been collected in 90 consecutive CI patients divided into 2 groups. Group 1 comprised 16 prelingually deaf children implanted between 8 months and 10 years of age. Group 2 comprised 74 postlingually deaf adults (average age of 62 years). All patients were users of the Nucleus 24RECA (Freedom, Contour Advance-of-Stylet electrode) cochlear implant. All measurements were performed at the fifth implant programming session at 4–6 months after surgery, when stable T/C thresholds have already been obtained. Results The behavioural C-levels present important and statistically significant differences between the pre- and postlingually implanted patients for all electrode contacts that could reach 30 CL. For the T-levels the observed differences were smaller and statistically insignificant for most electrode contacts. Conclusions The previous auditory experience (pre- or postlingual deafness) seems to be an independent parameter influencing the T/C-levels in patients receiving a CI. Together with the electrode contact impedance and the contact position in the electrode array it can explain up to 37% of the variability in the definition of the C-levels. The fact that the stabilised C-levels measured 4–6 months postoperatively can be up to 30 CL higher in the prelingually deaf patients than in the postlingual ones results also in a much higher dynamic range observed in prelingual subjects. Therefore implant programming of the prelingual patients should be very cautious in order to avoid the risk of overstimulation.

Undrained shear strength of a soil at the liquid limit water content can be considered to be around 1.7 kPa according to several researchers. Plasticity index of soils has been defined by one school of thought as a range of water content producing a 100-fold variation in their undrained shear strength. This has led to the redefinition of the plastic limit as the water content at which undrained shear strength is 170 kPa. The undrained shear strength-water content relationship has been found to be linear in the log–log plot for a wide range of water contents beginning from around the plastic limit to near the liquid limit. Normalization of undrained shear strength—water content relationship in a log–log plot has led to the conclusion that the water content at the liquid limit and at the plastic limit, obtained by cone penetration, could also be uniquely related. This contradicts the original understanding of Atterberg limits, namely liquid and plastic limits which are two independent parameter not related at all. It is more suitable to call this value of plastic limit from cone method as PL100 to differentiate it from Casagrande’s plastic limit.

Cell metabolism is characterized by three fundamental energy demands: to sustain cell maintenance, to trigger aerobic fermentation and to achieve maximum metabolic rate. The transition to aerobic fermentation and the maximum metabolic rate are currently understood based on enzymatic cost constraints. Yet, we are lacking a theory explaining the maintenance energy demand. Here we report a physical model of cell metabolism that explains the origin of these three energy scales. Our key hypothesis is that the maintenance energy demand is rooted on the energy expended by molecular motors to fluidize the cytoplasm and counteract molecular crowding. Using this model and independent parameter estimates we make predictions for the three energy scales that are in quantitative agreement with experimental values. The model also recapitulates the dependencies of cell growth with extracellular osmolarity and temperature. This theory brings together biophysics and cell biology in a tractable model that can be applied to understand key principles of cell metabolism.

Background: It is important for achieving an uneventful gestation to have a sensitive, specific and age independent obstetric biometric parameter which stays constant throughout the gestation. Transcerebellar diameters (TCD), TCD/ abdominal circumference (AC) ratio are reliable, constant predictors to assess the gestational age and to evaluate fetal growth. Along with TCD, the morphology of the cerebellum also changes gradually with the advancing gestation. The aim of the study was to evaluate TCD and TCD/AC ratio in singleton uncomplicated pregnancy in assessing fetal gestational age and growth and to evaluate the morphological changes in the appearance of the cerebellum with advancing gestation and categorizing it into three grades system. Methods: Prospective cross sectional study carried out in 100 singletons uncomplicated pregnancy between 12-40 weeks of gestation attending antenatal ultrasound clinics of DMIMS Sawangi, Wardha. Morphology of cerebellum was studied and categorized on USG with measurement of TCD, AC, and TCD/AC ratio. Results: There was a significant linear correlation of TCD; AC with GA.TCD/AC ratio for normal fetal growth with gestational age from 12-40weeks was found to be constant with a mean of 13.75.Cerebellar grading was 27% in grade I, 40% in grade II and 33% in grade III. The median GA and TCD was 18 weeks and 17mm for grade I, 27 weeks and 27mm for grade II and 34 weeks and 42mm for grade III. Conclusions: Significant linear relation of TCD with GA indicating the reliability of this biometry in estimating gestational age and assessing fetal growth. TCD/AC ratio remains fairly constant throughout the gestation and is a sensitive gestational age independent parameter and a good predictor for fetal growth monitoring. Ultrasonography of posterior fossa demonstrated gradual morphological changes in the cerebellum.

Lead chalcogenides are traditional thermoelectric materials with decent ZT values. Lead (Pb) chalcogenides in particular are widely studied for the last few decades for medium-temperature power generation applications due to their decent ZT values at high temperature. Both PbTe and PbSe have intrinsic two valence bands contributing to high hole density of states and high Seebeck coefficients. To enhance the thermoelectric performance, nanostructuring is an effective method to reduce lattice thermal conductivity since the lattice thermal conductivity is an independent parameter among all the interdependent thermoelectric parameters. Thermoelectric materials have superior advantages from the perspective of providing clean energy by direct conversion of heat to electricity without moving parts. Therefore, it is more plausible to use a single material in a thermoelectric device to span the whole temperature range under which the device is operating. PbTe and its related alloys are one kind of the earliest studied middle-range temperature applications of thermoelectric materials.

In transfusion medicine, the deformability of stored red blood cells (RBCs) changes during storage in blood banks. Compromised red blood cell (RBC) deformability can lower the transfusion efficiency or intensify transfusion complications such as sepsis. The controversial results in present literature are caused by the differences in the mode of RBC deformation and the metrics for indicating RBC deformability. This paper reports microfluidic mechanical measurement of stored RBCs under the physiological deformation mode (i.e., bending). Instead of using phenomenological metrics of deformation or elongation indices (DI or EI), RBCs' bending stiffness, a flow velocity independent parameter, is for the first time defined and used to evaluate the mechanical degradation of RBCs during storage. Fresh RBCs and RBCs stored up to six weeks in the blood bank were measured, revealing that the bending stiffness of RBCs increases over the storage process. RBCs stored for one week already started to show significantly higher stiffness than fresh RBCs, and stored RBC stiffness degraded faster in the last three weeks than in the first three weeks.

International audience; Flow cytometry has been used for the past 40 years to define and analyze the phenotype of lymphoid and other hematopoietic cells. Initially restricted to the analysis of a few fluorochromes, currently there are dozens of different fluorescent dyes, and up to 14-18 different dyes can be combined at a time. However, several limitations still impair the analytical capabilities. Because of the multiplicity of fluorescent probes, data analysis has become increasingly complex due to the need of large, multi-parametric compensation matrices. Moreover, mutant mouse models carrying fluorescent proteins to detect and trace specific cell types in different tissues have become available, so the analysis (by flow cytometry) of auto-fluorescent cell suspensions obtained from solid organs is required. Spectral flow cytometry, which distinguishes the shapes of emission spectra along a wide range of continuous wavelengths, addresses some of these problems. The data is analyzed with an algorithm that replaces compensation matrices and treats auto-fluorescence as an independent parameter. Thus, spectral flow cytometry should be capable of discriminating fluorochromes with similar emission peaks and can provide a multi-parametric analysis without compensation requirements.This protocol describes the spectral flow cytometry analysis, allowing for a 21-parameter (19 fluorescent probes) characterization and the management of an auto-fluorescent signal, providing high resolution in minor population detection. The results presented here show that spectral flow cytometry presents advantages in the analysis of cell populations from tissues difficult to characterize in conventional flow cytometry, such as the heart and the intestine. Spectral flow cytometry thus demonstrates the multi-parametric analytical capacity of high-performing conventional flow cytometry without the requirement for compensation and enables auto-fluorescence management.

Background: Arterial stiffness (e.g., as measured by carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV)) changes acutely with blood pressure (BP). High cfPWV at high BP could be due to structural arterial changes or acute BP effects. Various parameters have been proposed as BP-independent parameters of arterial stiffness. These rely on assumptions to simplify theoretical calculations. This study evaluates a parameter quantifying BP dependency of cfPWV through BP manipulation, avoiding assumptions and mathematical derivations. Methods: Brachial BP and cfPWV (SphygmoCor XCEL, AtCor Medical, Australia) were assessed in seated and supine position. The postural change invokes a systemic and hydrostatic BP change, thus changing cfPWV. ΔcfPWV/ΔBP was calculated. Repeatability was assessed in 25 participants (28 ± 11 years (mean ± SD), 52% female) across two visits on separate days. Cross-sectional correlation with age, gender, height, weight, seated BP, and supine cfPWV was assessed by stepwise linear regression across 135 participants (49 ± 23 years, 48% female). Results: Mean ΔcfPWV/ΔBP was 0.061 ± 0.025 m/s/mmHg. Repeatability showed a between-measurement difference of 0.005 ± 0.028 m/s/mmHg (8.2% error on mean). ΔcfPWV/ΔBP was cross-sectionally correlated with seated diastolic BP (standardised β = –0.506, p < 0.001), systolic BP (β = 0.503, p < 0.001), weight (β = –0.220, p = 0.006), and heart rate (β = 0.178, p = 0.039) (model p < 0.05, r2 = 0.264). Conclusion: ΔcfPWV/ΔBP showed fair repeatability. Notwithstanding accounting for BP, it correlated with typical long-term modifiers of arterial stiffness such as chronic elevated BP and weight. Further studies are required to validate if dividing ΔcfPWV by ΔBP, following acute intervention, creates an acceptable BP-independent arterial stiffness variable before the parameter is investigated for cardiovascular risk prediction to evaluate its clinical utility.

The paper describes the influence of forming-induced residual stresses in stainless steel SHS (Square Hollow Sections) on both the material itself and the behaviour of compressed members. The residual stress contribution to the stress–strain diagram concerning the initial modulus of elasticity and non-linearity is shown by the comparison of as-delivered and stress-relieved material. An analytical model covering the influence of residual stresses on material behaviour was developed and verified numerically. The FE study using the Abaqus software determines the influence of residual stresses in compressed members both on local and global buckling. Finally, the study on behaviour of member includes the influence of a varying degree of material non-linearity as an independent parameter representing the behaviour of various steels in long and stub columns with residual stresses.

The survival rates in endometrial cancer (EC) patients with lymph node (LN) metastasis vary greatly. Many other factors may have impact on the prognosis within this special group. The purpose of this study was to determine factors predicting the progression or death in patients with stage IIIC EC. A single tertiary center, retrospective analysis was conducted in a total of 38 consecutive patients who surgically treated for EC between January 2005 and January 2013. The primary endpoint was the determination of factors predicting the progression, recurrence, or death of any cause. The secondary endpoints were progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). The median age at diagnosis was 64 years, and the median follow-up time was 32.50 months (95 % CI 28.75–40.56). The median number of metastatic positive LNs (pelvic and/or paraaortic) was 2, and the LN ratio, expressed as the percentage of positive nodes to total LNs identified, was 6.3 %. The LN ratio (≥6.5 %) was the only independent parameter for progression or death in multiple logistic regression analysis. Patients were stratified according to the LN ratio (