Objective:Pediatric patients undergoing day surgery often experience significant anxiety,which can negatively impact both the child and their parents.Addressing this anxiety is crucial to ensure a smooth surgical expe...Objective:Pediatric patients undergoing day surgery often experience significant anxiety,which can negatively impact both the child and their parents.Addressing this anxiety is crucial to ensure a smooth surgical experience and recovery.This mini review aims to evaluate the impact of preoperative anxiety in children,identify contributing factors,and explore effective strategies to manage this anxiety during day surgery.Methods:A literature review was conducted,focusing on studies that assess anxiety levels in pediatric patients before day surgery and the interventions designed to alleviate this anxiety.The review included both psychological and procedural strategies.Results:Preoperative anxiety in children can be influenced by a variety of factors,including age,previous medical experiences,parental anxiety,and the hospital environment.Untreated anxiety may lead to increased postoperative pain,behavioral changes,and extended recovery times.Several strategies,including psychological preparation,family centered approaches,and the involvement of child life specialists,have been shown to effectively reduce anxiety.Conclusions:Managing anxiety in pediatric day surgery is vital to improving both surgical outcomes and the overall experience for children and their families.Healthcare professionals can play a key role in reducing anxiety through targeted interventions and supportive care.展开更多
The accuracy of the statistical learning model depends on the learning technique used which in turn depends on the dataset’s values.In most research studies,the existence of missing values(MVs)is a vital problem.In a...The accuracy of the statistical learning model depends on the learning technique used which in turn depends on the dataset’s values.In most research studies,the existence of missing values(MVs)is a vital problem.In addition,any dataset with MVs cannot be used for further analysis or with any data driven tool especially when the percentage of MVs are high.In this paper,the authors propose a novel algorithm for dealing with MVs depending on the feature selec-tion(FS)of similarity classifier with fuzzy entropy measure.The proposed algo-rithm imputes MVs in cumulative order.The candidate feature to be manipulated is selected using similarity classifier with Parkash’s fuzzy entropy measure.The predictive model to predict MVs within the candidate feature is the Bayesian Ridge Regression(BRR)technique.Furthermore,any imputed features will be incorporated within the BRR equation to impute the MVs in the next chosen incomplete feature.The proposed algorithm was compared against some practical state-of-the-art imputation methods by conducting an experiment on four medical datasets which were gathered from several databases repository with MVs gener-ated from the three missingness mechanisms.The evaluation metrics of mean abso-lute error(MAE),root mean square error(RMSE)and coefficient of determination(R2 score)were used to measure the performance.The results exhibited that perfor-mance vary depending on the size of the dataset,amount of MVs and the missing-ness mechanism type.Moreover,compared to other methods,the results showed that the proposed method gives better accuracy and less error in most cases.展开更多
Moments and cumulants are commonly used to characterize the probability distribution or observed data set. The use of the moment method of parameter estimation is also common in the construction of an appropriate para...Moments and cumulants are commonly used to characterize the probability distribution or observed data set. The use of the moment method of parameter estimation is also common in the construction of an appropriate parametric distribution for a certain data set. The moment method does not always produce satisfactory results. It is difficult to determine exactly what information concerning the shape of the distribution is expressed by its moments of the third and higher order. In the case of small samples in particular, numerical values of sample moments can be very different from the corresponding values of theoretical moments of the relevant probability distribution from which the random sample comes. Parameter estimations of the probability distribution made by the moment method are often considerably less accurate than those obtained using other methods, particularly in the case of small samples. The present paper deals with an alternative approach to the construction of an appropriate parametric distribution for the considered data set using order statistics.展开更多
Data are critically important to good decision-making. In an increasingly complex economy, conventional data collecting schemes are no longer sufficient. To deal with the challenge of maintaining its statistics releva...Data are critically important to good decision-making. In an increasingly complex economy, conventional data collecting schemes are no longer sufficient. To deal with the challenge of maintaining its statistics relevant to the users in an ever-shifting environment, the Banco de Portugal decided to explore the largely unused statistical potential of the available micro-databases and to integrate the existing administrative and survey data, thus enhancing the basic information infrastructure while protecting confidentiality. This presentation will address the benefits and problems to be dealt with when two or more data-sources are to be integrated.展开更多
Developing nations, like Nigeria, whose financial systems and infrastructural base are not yet fully developed face data rendition challenges which may hamper the representativeness of their interest rate statistics.A...Developing nations, like Nigeria, whose financial systems and infrastructural base are not yet fully developed face data rendition challenges which may hamper the representativeness of their interest rate statistics.A critical component of any credible interest rate data compilation framework relates to the sampling procedure.In Nigeria, no work has been done with regards to employing alternatives sampling techniques in the computation of interest rate statistics largely because of the small number of deposit money banks in the country. Leveraging on existing literature and established statistical methods, the study examines two sampling techniques for generating credible and reliable interest rates in Nigeria. The current interest rate compilation framework in the country is presented and alternative sampling procedures were explored with a view to investigating their appropriateness for Nigeria＇s interest rate computation. The interest rates generated based on the current population-based compilation method is compared with those of the alternative approaches. This paper recommends the use of purposive sampling method that covers Deposit Money Banks （DMBs） which account for about 70.0 per cent of the banking sector total assets as an appropriatealternative.展开更多
This study presents the design of a modified attributed control chart based on a double sampling(DS)np chart applied in combination with generalized multiple dependent state(GMDS)sampling to monitor the mean life of t...This study presents the design of a modified attributed control chart based on a double sampling(DS)np chart applied in combination with generalized multiple dependent state(GMDS)sampling to monitor the mean life of the product based on the time truncated life test employing theWeibull distribution.The control chart developed supports the examination of the mean lifespan variation for a particular product in the process of manufacturing.Three control limit levels are used:the warning control limit,inner control limit,and outer control limit.Together,they enhance the capability for variation detection.A genetic algorithm can be used for optimization during the in-control process,whereby the optimal parameters can be established for the proposed control chart.The control chart performance is assessed using the average run length,while the influence of the model parameters upon the control chart solution is assessed via sensitivity analysis based on an orthogonal experimental design withmultiple linear regression.A comparative study was conducted based on the out-of-control average run length,in which the developed control chart offered greater sensitivity in the detection of process shifts while making use of smaller samples on average than is the case for existing control charts.Finally,to exhibit the utility of the developed control chart,this paper presents its application using simulated data with parameters drawn from the real set of data.展开更多
Introduction: Anemia in people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) is a major health problem. Although anemia often responds to combination antiretroviral therapy, many patients remain anemic despite trea...Introduction: Anemia in people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) is a major health problem. Although anemia often responds to combination antiretroviral therapy, many patients remain anemic despite treatment, and such persistent anemia continues to adversely affect prognosis, regardless of drug response. Scientists have identified some of the factors involved. However, the mechanisms put in place have not been effective in overcoming them. Examples include the withdrawal of zidovudine from antiretroviral treatment lines, iron and folate supplementation, etc. Anemia is still a major concern in HIV-positive patients. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of anemia and its associated factors among PLHIV followed up at the outpatient treatment centre (CTA) of the Panzi General Reference Hospital (HGR) in South Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Method: We conducted a cross-sectional, comparative study of 276 HIV-infected adults on antiretroviral therapy (ART) followed up at the CTA of Panzi HGR. Socio-demographic and nutritional parameters were collected using a survey questionnaire, and clinical assessment and nutritional status were performed at the centre. Hemoglobin, seric albumin and viral load determinations were performed at the HGRP laboratory. We constructed univariate and multivariate logistic regression models to assess factors associated with anemia in people living with HIV/AIDS. Results: We found a prevalence of anemia of 39.4%, including 4.1% severe anemia, 17.7% moderate anemia and 17.5% mild anemia. After multivariate adjustment, the factors associated with anemia in our PLHIV were: moderate undernutrition (aOR = 1.26;95% CI: 1.50 - 4.20;p = 0.001), severe undernutrition (aOR = 115.4;95% CI: 2.04 - 164.52;p = 0.021), hypoalbuminemia (aOR = 2.11;95% CI: 1.87 - 5.10;p = 0.004) and the lower degree of dietary diversity (aOR = 1.56;95% CI: 1.10 - 4.32;p = 0.034). Conclusion: The prevalence of anemia in PLHIV on ART is high. This greatly affects quality of life and increases the need for care. Early detection tools and management algorithms are essential in the follow-up of PLWHIV.展开更多
Stock market and cryptocurrency forecasting is very important to investors as they aspire to achieve even the slightest improvement to their buy-or-hold strategies so that they may increase profitability.However,obtai...Stock market and cryptocurrency forecasting is very important to investors as they aspire to achieve even the slightest improvement to their buy-or-hold strategies so that they may increase profitability.However,obtaining accurate and reliable predictions is challenging,noting that accuracy does not equate to reliability,especially when financial time-series forecasting is applied owing to its complex and chaotic tendencies.To mitigate this complexity,this study provides a comprehensive method for forecasting financial time series based on tactical input–output feature mapping techniques using machine learning(ML)models.During the prediction process,selecting the relevant indicators is vital to obtaining the desired results.In the financial field,limited attention has been paid to this problem with ML solutions.We investigate the use of feature selection with annealing(FSA)for the first time in this field,and we apply the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator(Lasso)method to select the features from more than 1000 candidates obtained from 26 technical classifiers with different periods and lags.Boruta(BOR)feature selection,a wrapper method,is used as a baseline for comparison.Logistic regression(LR),extreme gradient boosting(XGBoost),and long short-term memory are then applied to the selected features for forecasting purposes using 10 different financial datasets containing cryptocurrencies and stocks.The dependent variables consisted of daily logarithmic returns and trends.The mean-squared error for regression,area under the receiver operating characteristic curve,and classification accuracy were used to evaluate model performance,and the statistical significance of the forecasting results was tested using paired t-tests.Experiments indicate that the FSA algorithm increased the performance of ML models,regardless of problem type.The FSA hybrid models showed better performance and outperformed the other BOR models on seven of the 10 datasets for regression and classification.FSA-based models also outperformed Lasso-based models on six of the 10 datasets for regression and four of the 10 datasets for classification.None of the hybrid BOR models outperformed the hybrid FSA models.Lasso-based models,excluding the LR type,were comparable to the best models for six of the 10 datasets for classification.Detailed experimental analysis indicates that the proposed methodology can forecast returns and their movements efficiently and accurately,providing the field with a useful tool for investors.展开更多
The article published in World Journalof Pediatrics entitled as"Introducing PRIDE:Development and Validation of a Developmental Delay Screening Tool in a Community Population"by Wu et al.[1]presents an innov...The article published in World Journalof Pediatrics entitled as"Introducing PRIDE:Development and Validation of a Developmental Delay Screening Tool in a Community Population"by Wu et al.[1]presents an innovative use of item response theory to develop and validate the Parent-Reported Indicator of Developmental Evaluation for Chinese Children(PRIDE)tool.展开更多
This study is to determine age-specific prostate-specific antigen （PSA） distributions in Chinese men without prostate cancer （PC） and to recommend reference ranges for this population after comparison with other s...This study is to determine age-specific prostate-specific antigen （PSA） distributions in Chinese men without prostate cancer （PC） and to recommend reference ranges for this population after comparison with other studies. From September 2003 to December 2006, 9 374 adult men aged from 18 to 96 years agreed to participate in the study. After all cases of PC were excluded, 8 422 adult men participated in statistical analysis and were divided into five age groups. Simple descriptive statistical analyses were carried out and quartiles and 95th percentiles were calculated for each age group. The age-specific PSA reference ranges are as follows： 4049 years, 2.15 ng mLl; 50-59 years, 3.20 ng mLl; 60-9 years, 4.10 ng mL^-1; 70-79 years, 5.37 ng mL^-1. The results indicate that the ethnic differences in PSA levels are obvious. The currently adopted Oesterling＇s age-specific PSA reference ranges are not appropriate for Chinese men. The reference ranges of this study should be more suitable to Chinese men.展开更多
AIM： To assess whether the effectiveness of a combination of transarterial chemoembolization （TACE） and percutaneous ethanol injection （PEI） in the treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma （HCC） is su...AIM： To assess whether the effectiveness of a combination of transarterial chemoembolization （TACE） and percutaneous ethanol injection （PEI） in the treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma （HCC） is superior to TACE alone a randomized controlled trial was performed. METHODS： The effect of combination therapy on longterm survival rates and duration of hospitalization was evaluated in 52 previously untreated HCCs, randomly allocated to TACE-PEI （27 pts） or TACE alone （25 pts）. RESULTS： The cumulative survival rate of the TACE group was 75.8% at 6 mo, 62.9% at 12 mo, and 18.0% at 24 mo and of the TACE-PEI group 76.9%, 61.5%, and 38.7%, respectively. Comparison of overall survival in both groups showed no statistically significant difference. Regarding the patients with HCCs Okuda stage I （n = 26）, the median survival of the TACE-PEI group was significantly longer （〉24 mo, median not yet reached in the study period） compared to the TACE group （18.4 mo [range 11.6-21.7 mo]; P = 0.04）. TACE-PEI reduced the relative risk for mortality to 0.4 （95% CI 0.15-0.96） compared to patients who received TACE alone. Median survival in patients with HCCs Okuda stage Ⅱ or Ⅲ was 5.0 mo in the TACE group （1.7 rno-not defined） compared to 10.4 mo in the TACE-PEI group. CONCLUSION： The combination TACE-PEI improved survival time compared to TACE alone. Our study revealed a statistically significant improved survival in HCCs Okuda stage I. Side effects were minor and the combination therapy did not prolong duration of hospitalization considerably.展开更多
Objective:To detect the anticandidal activity of nine toothpastes containing sodium fluoride, sodium monofluorophosphate and herbal extracts as an active ingredients against 45 oral and non oral Candida albicans(C.alb...Objective:To detect the anticandidal activity of nine toothpastes containing sodium fluoride, sodium monofluorophosphate and herbal extracts as an active ingredients against 45 oral and non oral Candida albicans(C.albicans) isolates.Methods:The antifungal activity of these toothpaste formulations was determined using a standard agar well diffusion method.Statistical analysis was performed using a statistical package,SPSS windows version 15,by applying mean values using one-way ANOVA with post-hoc least square differences(LSD) method.A P value of less than 0.05 was considered significant.Results:All toothpastes studied in our experiments were effective in inhibiting the growth of all C.albicans isolates.The highest anticandidal activity was obtained from toothpaste that containing both herbal extracts and sodium fluoride as active ingredients, while the lowest activity was obtained from toothpaste containing sodium monofluorophosphate as an active ingredient.Antifungal activity of Parodontax toothpaste showed a significant difference(P<0.001) against C.albicans isolates compared to toothpastes containing sodium fluoride or herbal products.Conclusions:In the present study,it has been demonstrated that toothpaste containing both herbal extracts and sodium fluoride as active ingredients are more effective in control of C.albicans,while toothpaste that containing monofluorophosphate as an active ingredient is less effective against C.albicans.Some herbal toothpaste formulations studied in our experiments,appear to be equally effective as the fluoride dental formulations and it can be used as an alternative to conventional formulations for individuals who have an interest in naturally-based products.Our results may provide invaluable information for dental professionals.展开更多
Objective:Yes associated protein 1(YAP1)is a member of the Hippo pathway,acting as a transcriptional coactivator.To elucidate the role of YAP1 and phosphorylated(p)YAP1 in prostate cancer(PCa)tumorigenesis,we investig...Objective:Yes associated protein 1(YAP1)is a member of the Hippo pathway,acting as a transcriptional coactivator.To elucidate the role of YAP1 and phosphorylated(p)YAP1 in prostate cancer(PCa)tumorigenesis,we investigated their expression in clinical samples of PCa and cell lines.Methods:Fifty-four tumor,adjacent nontumor,and prostate intraepithelial neoplasia(PIN)tissues from patients with PCa after radical prostatectomy were selected from a retrospective cohort and studied using immunohistochemistry(IHC).Protein and m RNA expression levels of YAP1 were evaluated by Western blot analysis and quantitative real-time reverse transcription PCR,respectively,in cancer cell lines.Publicly available gene expression datasets were downloaded to analyze YAP1 m RNA and protein levels in PCa tissue samples.Results:IHC analysis of PCa tissues revealed that YAP1 staining intensities were moderate to weak in the nucleus and cytoplasm of tumor cells,whereas adjacent normal epithelia showed strong staining.We observed that benign prostates were characterized by higher expression levels of both nuclear(P=0.004)and cytosolic(P=0.005)YAP1.p YAP1 staining was weak in the cytoplasm and absent in the nucleus of all the tissues investigated.YAP1 expression was an indicator of extraprostatic extension(EPE).The level of YAP1 was negatively correlated with the level of the androgen receptor(AR)in The Cancer Genome Atlas dataset and Western blot analysis of cell lines.Conclusions:Our study suggested that YAP1 expression is heterogeneous in PCa tissue samples;therefore,YAP1 might play different roles in different aspects of PCa progression.This might involve AR–YAP1 interplay in PCa.展开更多
This study is to assess the potential factors that could affect the serum prostate-specific antigen （PSA） level in healthy younger men. We evaluated the associations of age, body mass index （BMI） and serum lipid p...This study is to assess the potential factors that could affect the serum prostate-specific antigen （PSA） level in healthy younger men. We evaluated the associations of age, body mass index （BMI） and serum lipid profile with serum PSA level in 6774 Chinese men （aged 20-49 years） who received a routine health examination. Eligible men were classified into 10-year age groups, BMI was categorized as underweight （〈18.5）, normal （18.5-22.9）, overweight （23.0-24.9）, obese （25.0-29,9） and very obese （〉30） according to the redefined World Health Organization （WHO） criteria for the Asia-Pacific region. PSA levels were compared among groups as well, In multiple linear regression analysis, PSA was positively correlated with age （P〈0.0001）. Negative correlations existed between PSA and BMI （P〈0.0001） and triglyceride level （P=0.01）. No relationship could be found between PSA and serum cholesterol （P=0.711） or high-density lipoprotein （HDL; P =0.665）. In addition, we found that serum PSA levels increased with age and decreased with BMI. Our study demonstrates that age, BMI and triglyceride levels influence the PSA level in men 〈50 years of age.展开更多
BACKGROUND Acute liver failure(ALF)can be a primary presentation of Wilson disease(WD).Mortality rates are high in WD with ALF(WDALF).Predictions of mortality in WDALF vary by model and are sometimes contradictory,per...BACKGROUND Acute liver failure(ALF)can be a primary presentation of Wilson disease(WD).Mortality rates are high in WD with ALF(WDALF).Predictions of mortality in WDALF vary by model and are sometimes contradictory,perhaps because few patients are studied or WD diagnoses are questionable.AIM To determine the outcomes among well-documented WDALF patients and assess mortality model performance in this cohort.METHODS We reviewed the medical records of our pediatric WDALF patients(n=41 over 6-years-old,single-center retrospective study)and compared seven prognostic models(King’s College Hospital Criteria,model for end-stage liver disease/pediatric end-stage liver disease scoring systems,Liver Injury Unit[LIU]using prothrombin time[PT]or international normalized ratio[INR],admission LIU using PT or INR,and Devarbhavi model)with one another.RESULTS Among the 41 Han Chinese patients with ALF,WD was established by demonstrating ATP7B variants in 36.In 5 others,Kayser-Fleischer rings and Coombs-negative hemolytic anemia permitted diagnosis.Three died during hospitalization and three underwent liver transplantation(LT)within 1 mo of presentation and survived(7.3%each);35(85.4%)survived without LT when given enteral D-penicillamine and zinc-salt therapy with or without urgent plasmapheresis.Parameters significantly correlated with mortality included encephalopathy,coagulopathy,and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase activity,bilirubin,ammonia,and serum sodium levels.Area under the receiver operating curves varied among seven prognostic models from 0.981 to 0.748 with positive predictive values from 0.214 to 0.429.CONCLUSION WDALF children can survive and recover without LT when given D-penicillamine and Zn with or without plasmapheresis,even after enlisting for LT.展开更多
Background:Fuzheng Huayu tablet is a traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)used for the treatment of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis.However,whether the combination with Fuzheng Huayu tablet could affect the antiviral efflcac...Background:Fuzheng Huayu tablet is a traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)used for the treatment of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis.However,whether the combination with Fuzheng Huayu tablet could affect the antiviral efflcacy of nucleos(t)ide remains a concern.The objective of this trial was to explore the impact of Fuzheng Huayu tablet on antiviral effect of entecavir in patients with hepatitis B cirrhosis.Methods:A prospective,randomized control trial was conducted.Patients with compensated hepatitis B cirrhosis were randomly divided into the treatment group(entecavir capsule plus Fuzheng Huayu tablet)and the control group(entecavir capsule plus simulant of Fuzheng Huayu),and followed up for 48 weeks.The dynamic changes of HBV DNA load,the rate of serological conversion of HBeAg,liver function,renal function and liver stiffness measurement(LSM)were monitored.The general clinical data and adverse events were also recorded.Results:There was no significant difference in the rate of virological response and cumulative virological response between the treatment group and the control group(P>0.05).After 48 weeks of treatment,the HBeAg seroconversion rate,biochemical response rate and LSM value were 21.05%and 4.76%(P=0.164),86.96%and 65.96%(P=0.017),9.5 kpa and 10.6 kpa(P=0.827)in the treatment group and the control group,respectively.No serious adverse events related to the study therapy occurred during the trial.Conclusions:The antiviral entecavir combined with Fuzheng Huayu tablet did not affect the antiviral efflcacy of entecavir,but could improve the rate of biochemical response,and had a tendency to improve the rate of serological conversion of HBeAg and liver fibrosis in patients with hepatitis B cirrhosis.Fuzheng Huayu tablet is clinically safe for patients with hepatitis B cirrhosis.展开更多
Gastric cancer surgical management differs between Eastern Asia and Western countries. Extended lymphadenectomy (D2) is the standard of care in Japan and South Korea since decades, while the majority of United States ...Gastric cancer surgical management differs between Eastern Asia and Western countries. Extended lymphadenectomy (D2) is the standard of care in Japan and South Korea since decades, while the majority of United States patients receive at most a limited lymphadenectomy (D1). United States and Northern Europe are considered the scientific leaders in medicine and evidence-based procedures are the cornerstone of their clinical practice. However, surgeons in Eastern Asia are more experienced, as there are more new cases of gastric cancer in Japan (107898 in 2012) than in the entire European Union (81592), or in South Korea (31269) than in the entire United States (21155). For quite a long time evidence-based medicine (EBM) did not solve the question whether D2 improves long-term prognosis with respect to D1. Indeed, eastern surgeons were reluctant to perform D1 even in the frame of a clinical trial, as their patients had a very good prognosis after D2. Evidence-based surgical indications provided by Western trials were questioned, as surgical procedures could not be properly standardized. In the present study we analyzed indications about the optimal extension of lymphadenectomy in gastric cancer according to current scientific literature (2008-2012) and surgical guidelines. We searched PubMed for papers using the key words “lymphadenectomy or D1 or D2” AND “gastric cancer” from 2008 to 2012. Moreover, we reviewed national guidelines for gastric cancer management. The support to D2 lymphadenectomy increased progressively from 2008 to 2012: since 2010 papers supporting D2 have achieved a higher overall impact factor than the other papers. Till 2011, D2 was the procedure of choice according to experts’ opinion, while three meta-analyses found no survival advantage after D2 with respect to D1. In 2012-2013, however, two meta-analyses reported that D2 improves prognosis with respect to D1. D2 lymphadenectomy was proposed as the standard of care for advanced gastric cancer by Japanese National Guidelines since 1981 and was adopted as the standard procedure by the Italian Research Group for Gastric Cancer since the Nineties. D2 is now indicated as the standard of surgical treatment with curative intent by the German, British and ESMO-ESSO-ESTRO guidelines. At variance American NCCN guidelines recommend a D1<sup>+</sup> or a modified D2 lymph node dissection. In conclusion, D2 lymphadenectomy, originally developed by Eastern surgeons, is now becoming the procedure of choice also in the West. In gastric cancer surgery EBM is lagging behind national guidelines, rather than preceding and orienting them. To eliminate this lag, EBM should value to a larger extent Eastern Asian literature and should evaluate not only the quality of the study design but also the quality of surgical procedures.展开更多
Rock slope hazard assessment is an important part of risk analysis for open pit mines.The main parameters that can lead to rock slope failures are the parameters traditionally used in geomechanical classifications,the...Rock slope hazard assessment is an important part of risk analysis for open pit mines.The main parameters that can lead to rock slope failures are the parameters traditionally used in geomechanical classifications,the slope geometrical parameters and external factors like rainfall and blasting.This paper presents a methodology for a hazard assessment system for open pit mine slopes based on 88 cases collated around the world using principal components analysis,discriminant analysis and confidence ellipses.The historical cases used in this study included copper,gold,iron,diamond,lead and zinc,platinum and claystone mines.The variables used in the assessment methodology are uniaxial compressive strength of intact rock;spacing,persistence,opening,roughness,infilling and orientation of the main discontinuity set;weathering of the rock mass;groundwater;blasting method;and height and inclination of the pit.While principal component analysis was used to quantify the data,the discriminant analysis was used to establish a rule to classify new slopes about its stability condition.To provide a practical hazard assessment system,confidence ellipses were used to propose a hazard graph and generate the HAS-Q.The discriminant rule developed in this research has a high discrimination capacity with an error rate of 11.36%.展开更多
文摘Objective:Pediatric patients undergoing day surgery often experience significant anxiety,which can negatively impact both the child and their parents.Addressing this anxiety is crucial to ensure a smooth surgical experience and recovery.This mini review aims to evaluate the impact of preoperative anxiety in children,identify contributing factors,and explore effective strategies to manage this anxiety during day surgery.Methods:A literature review was conducted,focusing on studies that assess anxiety levels in pediatric patients before day surgery and the interventions designed to alleviate this anxiety.The review included both psychological and procedural strategies.Results:Preoperative anxiety in children can be influenced by a variety of factors,including age,previous medical experiences,parental anxiety,and the hospital environment.Untreated anxiety may lead to increased postoperative pain,behavioral changes,and extended recovery times.Several strategies,including psychological preparation,family centered approaches,and the involvement of child life specialists,have been shown to effectively reduce anxiety.Conclusions:Managing anxiety in pediatric day surgery is vital to improving both surgical outcomes and the overall experience for children and their families.Healthcare professionals can play a key role in reducing anxiety through targeted interventions and supportive care.
基金funded by the Deanship of Scientific Research(DSR)at King Abdulaziz University(KAU)Jeddah,Saudi Arabia,under grant No.(PH:13-130-1442).
文摘The accuracy of the statistical learning model depends on the learning technique used which in turn depends on the dataset’s values.In most research studies,the existence of missing values(MVs)is a vital problem.In addition,any dataset with MVs cannot be used for further analysis or with any data driven tool especially when the percentage of MVs are high.In this paper,the authors propose a novel algorithm for dealing with MVs depending on the feature selec-tion(FS)of similarity classifier with fuzzy entropy measure.The proposed algo-rithm imputes MVs in cumulative order.The candidate feature to be manipulated is selected using similarity classifier with Parkash’s fuzzy entropy measure.The predictive model to predict MVs within the candidate feature is the Bayesian Ridge Regression(BRR)technique.Furthermore,any imputed features will be incorporated within the BRR equation to impute the MVs in the next chosen incomplete feature.The proposed algorithm was compared against some practical state-of-the-art imputation methods by conducting an experiment on four medical datasets which were gathered from several databases repository with MVs gener-ated from the three missingness mechanisms.The evaluation metrics of mean abso-lute error(MAE),root mean square error(RMSE)and coefficient of determination(R2 score)were used to measure the performance.The results exhibited that perfor-mance vary depending on the size of the dataset,amount of MVs and the missing-ness mechanism type.Moreover,compared to other methods,the results showed that the proposed method gives better accuracy and less error in most cases.
文摘Moments and cumulants are commonly used to characterize the probability distribution or observed data set. The use of the moment method of parameter estimation is also common in the construction of an appropriate parametric distribution for a certain data set. The moment method does not always produce satisfactory results. It is difficult to determine exactly what information concerning the shape of the distribution is expressed by its moments of the third and higher order. In the case of small samples in particular, numerical values of sample moments can be very different from the corresponding values of theoretical moments of the relevant probability distribution from which the random sample comes. Parameter estimations of the probability distribution made by the moment method are often considerably less accurate than those obtained using other methods, particularly in the case of small samples. The present paper deals with an alternative approach to the construction of an appropriate parametric distribution for the considered data set using order statistics.
文摘Data are critically important to good decision-making. In an increasingly complex economy, conventional data collecting schemes are no longer sufficient. To deal with the challenge of maintaining its statistics relevant to the users in an ever-shifting environment, the Banco de Portugal decided to explore the largely unused statistical potential of the available micro-databases and to integrate the existing administrative and survey data, thus enhancing the basic information infrastructure while protecting confidentiality. This presentation will address the benefits and problems to be dealt with when two or more data-sources are to be integrated.
文摘Developing nations, like Nigeria, whose financial systems and infrastructural base are not yet fully developed face data rendition challenges which may hamper the representativeness of their interest rate statistics.A critical component of any credible interest rate data compilation framework relates to the sampling procedure.In Nigeria, no work has been done with regards to employing alternatives sampling techniques in the computation of interest rate statistics largely because of the small number of deposit money banks in the country. Leveraging on existing literature and established statistical methods, the study examines two sampling techniques for generating credible and reliable interest rates in Nigeria. The current interest rate compilation framework in the country is presented and alternative sampling procedures were explored with a view to investigating their appropriateness for Nigeria＇s interest rate computation. The interest rates generated based on the current population-based compilation method is compared with those of the alternative approaches. This paper recommends the use of purposive sampling method that covers Deposit Money Banks （DMBs） which account for about 70.0 per cent of the banking sector total assets as an appropriatealternative.
基金the Science,Research and Innovation Promotion Funding(TSRI)(Grant No.FRB660012/0168)managed under Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi(FRB66E0646O.4).
文摘This study presents the design of a modified attributed control chart based on a double sampling(DS)np chart applied in combination with generalized multiple dependent state(GMDS)sampling to monitor the mean life of the product based on the time truncated life test employing theWeibull distribution.The control chart developed supports the examination of the mean lifespan variation for a particular product in the process of manufacturing.Three control limit levels are used:the warning control limit,inner control limit,and outer control limit.Together,they enhance the capability for variation detection.A genetic algorithm can be used for optimization during the in-control process,whereby the optimal parameters can be established for the proposed control chart.The control chart performance is assessed using the average run length,while the influence of the model parameters upon the control chart solution is assessed via sensitivity analysis based on an orthogonal experimental design withmultiple linear regression.A comparative study was conducted based on the out-of-control average run length,in which the developed control chart offered greater sensitivity in the detection of process shifts while making use of smaller samples on average than is the case for existing control charts.Finally,to exhibit the utility of the developed control chart,this paper presents its application using simulated data with parameters drawn from the real set of data.
文摘Introduction: Anemia in people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) is a major health problem. Although anemia often responds to combination antiretroviral therapy, many patients remain anemic despite treatment, and such persistent anemia continues to adversely affect prognosis, regardless of drug response. Scientists have identified some of the factors involved. However, the mechanisms put in place have not been effective in overcoming them. Examples include the withdrawal of zidovudine from antiretroviral treatment lines, iron and folate supplementation, etc. Anemia is still a major concern in HIV-positive patients. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of anemia and its associated factors among PLHIV followed up at the outpatient treatment centre (CTA) of the Panzi General Reference Hospital (HGR) in South Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Method: We conducted a cross-sectional, comparative study of 276 HIV-infected adults on antiretroviral therapy (ART) followed up at the CTA of Panzi HGR. Socio-demographic and nutritional parameters were collected using a survey questionnaire, and clinical assessment and nutritional status were performed at the centre. Hemoglobin, seric albumin and viral load determinations were performed at the HGRP laboratory. We constructed univariate and multivariate logistic regression models to assess factors associated with anemia in people living with HIV/AIDS. Results: We found a prevalence of anemia of 39.4%, including 4.1% severe anemia, 17.7% moderate anemia and 17.5% mild anemia. After multivariate adjustment, the factors associated with anemia in our PLHIV were: moderate undernutrition (aOR = 1.26;95% CI: 1.50 - 4.20;p = 0.001), severe undernutrition (aOR = 115.4;95% CI: 2.04 - 164.52;p = 0.021), hypoalbuminemia (aOR = 2.11;95% CI: 1.87 - 5.10;p = 0.004) and the lower degree of dietary diversity (aOR = 1.56;95% CI: 1.10 - 4.32;p = 0.034). Conclusion: The prevalence of anemia in PLHIV on ART is high. This greatly affects quality of life and increases the need for care. Early detection tools and management algorithms are essential in the follow-up of PLWHIV.
基金supported by THE SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNOLOGICAL RESEARCH COUNCIL OF TURKIYE.
文摘Stock market and cryptocurrency forecasting is very important to investors as they aspire to achieve even the slightest improvement to their buy-or-hold strategies so that they may increase profitability.However,obtaining accurate and reliable predictions is challenging,noting that accuracy does not equate to reliability,especially when financial time-series forecasting is applied owing to its complex and chaotic tendencies.To mitigate this complexity,this study provides a comprehensive method for forecasting financial time series based on tactical input–output feature mapping techniques using machine learning(ML)models.During the prediction process,selecting the relevant indicators is vital to obtaining the desired results.In the financial field,limited attention has been paid to this problem with ML solutions.We investigate the use of feature selection with annealing(FSA)for the first time in this field,and we apply the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator(Lasso)method to select the features from more than 1000 candidates obtained from 26 technical classifiers with different periods and lags.Boruta(BOR)feature selection,a wrapper method,is used as a baseline for comparison.Logistic regression(LR),extreme gradient boosting(XGBoost),and long short-term memory are then applied to the selected features for forecasting purposes using 10 different financial datasets containing cryptocurrencies and stocks.The dependent variables consisted of daily logarithmic returns and trends.The mean-squared error for regression,area under the receiver operating characteristic curve,and classification accuracy were used to evaluate model performance,and the statistical significance of the forecasting results was tested using paired t-tests.Experiments indicate that the FSA algorithm increased the performance of ML models,regardless of problem type.The FSA hybrid models showed better performance and outperformed the other BOR models on seven of the 10 datasets for regression and classification.FSA-based models also outperformed Lasso-based models on six of the 10 datasets for regression and four of the 10 datasets for classification.None of the hybrid BOR models outperformed the hybrid FSA models.Lasso-based models,excluding the LR type,were comparable to the best models for six of the 10 datasets for classification.Detailed experimental analysis indicates that the proposed methodology can forecast returns and their movements efficiently and accurately,providing the field with a useful tool for investors.
文摘The article published in World Journalof Pediatrics entitled as"Introducing PRIDE:Development and Validation of a Developmental Delay Screening Tool in a Community Population"by Wu et al.[1]presents an innovative use of item response theory to develop and validate the Parent-Reported Indicator of Developmental Evaluation for Chinese Children(PRIDE)tool.
文摘This study is to determine age-specific prostate-specific antigen （PSA） distributions in Chinese men without prostate cancer （PC） and to recommend reference ranges for this population after comparison with other studies. From September 2003 to December 2006, 9 374 adult men aged from 18 to 96 years agreed to participate in the study. After all cases of PC were excluded, 8 422 adult men participated in statistical analysis and were divided into five age groups. Simple descriptive statistical analyses were carried out and quartiles and 95th percentiles were calculated for each age group. The age-specific PSA reference ranges are as follows： 4049 years, 2.15 ng mLl; 50-59 years, 3.20 ng mLl; 60-9 years, 4.10 ng mL^-1; 70-79 years, 5.37 ng mL^-1. The results indicate that the ethnic differences in PSA levels are obvious. The currently adopted Oesterling＇s age-specific PSA reference ranges are not appropriate for Chinese men. The reference ranges of this study should be more suitable to Chinese men.
文摘AIM： To assess whether the effectiveness of a combination of transarterial chemoembolization （TACE） and percutaneous ethanol injection （PEI） in the treatment of unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma （HCC） is superior to TACE alone a randomized controlled trial was performed. METHODS： The effect of combination therapy on longterm survival rates and duration of hospitalization was evaluated in 52 previously untreated HCCs, randomly allocated to TACE-PEI （27 pts） or TACE alone （25 pts）. RESULTS： The cumulative survival rate of the TACE group was 75.8% at 6 mo, 62.9% at 12 mo, and 18.0% at 24 mo and of the TACE-PEI group 76.9%, 61.5%, and 38.7%, respectively. Comparison of overall survival in both groups showed no statistically significant difference. Regarding the patients with HCCs Okuda stage I （n = 26）, the median survival of the TACE-PEI group was significantly longer （〉24 mo, median not yet reached in the study period） compared to the TACE group （18.4 mo [range 11.6-21.7 mo]; P = 0.04）. TACE-PEI reduced the relative risk for mortality to 0.4 （95% CI 0.15-0.96） compared to patients who received TACE alone. Median survival in patients with HCCs Okuda stage Ⅱ or Ⅲ was 5.0 mo in the TACE group （1.7 rno-not defined） compared to 10.4 mo in the TACE-PEI group. CONCLUSION： The combination TACE-PEI improved survival time compared to TACE alone. Our study revealed a statistically significant improved survival in HCCs Okuda stage I. Side effects were minor and the combination therapy did not prolong duration of hospitalization considerably.
基金Supported by the Deanship of Scientific Research of Najah N.University
文摘Objective:To detect the anticandidal activity of nine toothpastes containing sodium fluoride, sodium monofluorophosphate and herbal extracts as an active ingredients against 45 oral and non oral Candida albicans(C.albicans) isolates.Methods:The antifungal activity of these toothpaste formulations was determined using a standard agar well diffusion method.Statistical analysis was performed using a statistical package,SPSS windows version 15,by applying mean values using one-way ANOVA with post-hoc least square differences(LSD) method.A P value of less than 0.05 was considered significant.Results:All toothpastes studied in our experiments were effective in inhibiting the growth of all C.albicans isolates.The highest anticandidal activity was obtained from toothpaste that containing both herbal extracts and sodium fluoride as active ingredients, while the lowest activity was obtained from toothpaste containing sodium monofluorophosphate as an active ingredient.Antifungal activity of Parodontax toothpaste showed a significant difference(P<0.001) against C.albicans isolates compared to toothpastes containing sodium fluoride or herbal products.Conclusions:In the present study,it has been demonstrated that toothpaste containing both herbal extracts and sodium fluoride as active ingredients are more effective in control of C.albicans,while toothpaste that containing monofluorophosphate as an active ingredient is less effective against C.albicans.Some herbal toothpaste formulations studied in our experiments,appear to be equally effective as the fluoride dental formulations and it can be used as an alternative to conventional formulations for individuals who have an interest in naturally-based products.Our results may provide invaluable information for dental professionals.
基金financially supported by the The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey(TUBITAK,Grant No.114S419)Istanbul Medeniyet University Scientific Research Grants(Grant No.FBA-2014-293)
文摘Objective:Yes associated protein 1(YAP1)is a member of the Hippo pathway,acting as a transcriptional coactivator.To elucidate the role of YAP1 and phosphorylated(p)YAP1 in prostate cancer(PCa)tumorigenesis,we investigated their expression in clinical samples of PCa and cell lines.Methods:Fifty-four tumor,adjacent nontumor,and prostate intraepithelial neoplasia(PIN)tissues from patients with PCa after radical prostatectomy were selected from a retrospective cohort and studied using immunohistochemistry(IHC).Protein and m RNA expression levels of YAP1 were evaluated by Western blot analysis and quantitative real-time reverse transcription PCR,respectively,in cancer cell lines.Publicly available gene expression datasets were downloaded to analyze YAP1 m RNA and protein levels in PCa tissue samples.Results:IHC analysis of PCa tissues revealed that YAP1 staining intensities were moderate to weak in the nucleus and cytoplasm of tumor cells,whereas adjacent normal epithelia showed strong staining.We observed that benign prostates were characterized by higher expression levels of both nuclear(P=0.004)and cytosolic(P=0.005)YAP1.p YAP1 staining was weak in the cytoplasm and absent in the nucleus of all the tissues investigated.YAP1 expression was an indicator of extraprostatic extension(EPE).The level of YAP1 was negatively correlated with the level of the androgen receptor(AR)in The Cancer Genome Atlas dataset and Western blot analysis of cell lines.Conclusions:Our study suggested that YAP1 expression is heterogeneous in PCa tissue samples;therefore,YAP1 might play different roles in different aspects of PCa progression.This might involve AR–YAP1 interplay in PCa.
文摘This study is to assess the potential factors that could affect the serum prostate-specific antigen （PSA） level in healthy younger men. We evaluated the associations of age, body mass index （BMI） and serum lipid profile with serum PSA level in 6774 Chinese men （aged 20-49 years） who received a routine health examination. Eligible men were classified into 10-year age groups, BMI was categorized as underweight （〈18.5）, normal （18.5-22.9）, overweight （23.0-24.9）, obese （25.0-29,9） and very obese （〉30） according to the redefined World Health Organization （WHO） criteria for the Asia-Pacific region. PSA levels were compared among groups as well, In multiple linear regression analysis, PSA was positively correlated with age （P〈0.0001）. Negative correlations existed between PSA and BMI （P〈0.0001） and triglyceride level （P=0.01）. No relationship could be found between PSA and serum cholesterol （P=0.711） or high-density lipoprotein （HDL; P =0.665）. In addition, we found that serum PSA levels increased with age and decreased with BMI. Our study demonstrates that age, BMI and triglyceride levels influence the PSA level in men 〈50 years of age.
文摘BACKGROUND Acute liver failure(ALF)can be a primary presentation of Wilson disease(WD).Mortality rates are high in WD with ALF(WDALF).Predictions of mortality in WDALF vary by model and are sometimes contradictory,perhaps because few patients are studied or WD diagnoses are questionable.AIM To determine the outcomes among well-documented WDALF patients and assess mortality model performance in this cohort.METHODS We reviewed the medical records of our pediatric WDALF patients(n=41 over 6-years-old,single-center retrospective study)and compared seven prognostic models(King’s College Hospital Criteria,model for end-stage liver disease/pediatric end-stage liver disease scoring systems,Liver Injury Unit[LIU]using prothrombin time[PT]or international normalized ratio[INR],admission LIU using PT or INR,and Devarbhavi model)with one another.RESULTS Among the 41 Han Chinese patients with ALF,WD was established by demonstrating ATP7B variants in 36.In 5 others,Kayser-Fleischer rings and Coombs-negative hemolytic anemia permitted diagnosis.Three died during hospitalization and three underwent liver transplantation(LT)within 1 mo of presentation and survived(7.3%each);35(85.4%)survived without LT when given enteral D-penicillamine and zinc-salt therapy with or without urgent plasmapheresis.Parameters significantly correlated with mortality included encephalopathy,coagulopathy,and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase activity,bilirubin,ammonia,and serum sodium levels.Area under the receiver operating curves varied among seven prognostic models from 0.981 to 0.748 with positive predictive values from 0.214 to 0.429.CONCLUSION WDALF children can survive and recover without LT when given D-penicillamine and Zn with or without plasmapheresis,even after enlisting for LT.
基金supported by grants from the Beijing Municipal Science and Technology Project of Traditional Chinese Medicine(JJ2014-25)the Capital Funds for Health Improvement and Research(CFH-2018-2-2173 and CFH-2020-1-2171)。
文摘Background:Fuzheng Huayu tablet is a traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)used for the treatment of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis.However,whether the combination with Fuzheng Huayu tablet could affect the antiviral efflcacy of nucleos(t)ide remains a concern.The objective of this trial was to explore the impact of Fuzheng Huayu tablet on antiviral effect of entecavir in patients with hepatitis B cirrhosis.Methods:A prospective,randomized control trial was conducted.Patients with compensated hepatitis B cirrhosis were randomly divided into the treatment group(entecavir capsule plus Fuzheng Huayu tablet)and the control group(entecavir capsule plus simulant of Fuzheng Huayu),and followed up for 48 weeks.The dynamic changes of HBV DNA load,the rate of serological conversion of HBeAg,liver function,renal function and liver stiffness measurement(LSM)were monitored.The general clinical data and adverse events were also recorded.Results:There was no significant difference in the rate of virological response and cumulative virological response between the treatment group and the control group(P>0.05).After 48 weeks of treatment,the HBeAg seroconversion rate,biochemical response rate and LSM value were 21.05%and 4.76%(P=0.164),86.96%and 65.96%(P=0.017),9.5 kpa and 10.6 kpa(P=0.827)in the treatment group and the control group,respectively.No serious adverse events related to the study therapy occurred during the trial.Conclusions:The antiviral entecavir combined with Fuzheng Huayu tablet did not affect the antiviral efflcacy of entecavir,but could improve the rate of biochemical response,and had a tendency to improve the rate of serological conversion of HBeAg and liver fibrosis in patients with hepatitis B cirrhosis.Fuzheng Huayu tablet is clinically safe for patients with hepatitis B cirrhosis.
文摘Gastric cancer surgical management differs between Eastern Asia and Western countries. Extended lymphadenectomy (D2) is the standard of care in Japan and South Korea since decades, while the majority of United States patients receive at most a limited lymphadenectomy (D1). United States and Northern Europe are considered the scientific leaders in medicine and evidence-based procedures are the cornerstone of their clinical practice. However, surgeons in Eastern Asia are more experienced, as there are more new cases of gastric cancer in Japan (107898 in 2012) than in the entire European Union (81592), or in South Korea (31269) than in the entire United States (21155). For quite a long time evidence-based medicine (EBM) did not solve the question whether D2 improves long-term prognosis with respect to D1. Indeed, eastern surgeons were reluctant to perform D1 even in the frame of a clinical trial, as their patients had a very good prognosis after D2. Evidence-based surgical indications provided by Western trials were questioned, as surgical procedures could not be properly standardized. In the present study we analyzed indications about the optimal extension of lymphadenectomy in gastric cancer according to current scientific literature (2008-2012) and surgical guidelines. We searched PubMed for papers using the key words “lymphadenectomy or D1 or D2” AND “gastric cancer” from 2008 to 2012. Moreover, we reviewed national guidelines for gastric cancer management. The support to D2 lymphadenectomy increased progressively from 2008 to 2012: since 2010 papers supporting D2 have achieved a higher overall impact factor than the other papers. Till 2011, D2 was the procedure of choice according to experts’ opinion, while three meta-analyses found no survival advantage after D2 with respect to D1. In 2012-2013, however, two meta-analyses reported that D2 improves prognosis with respect to D1. D2 lymphadenectomy was proposed as the standard of care for advanced gastric cancer by Japanese National Guidelines since 1981 and was adopted as the standard procedure by the Italian Research Group for Gastric Cancer since the Nineties. D2 is now indicated as the standard of surgical treatment with curative intent by the German, British and ESMO-ESSO-ESTRO guidelines. At variance American NCCN guidelines recommend a D1<sup>+</sup> or a modified D2 lymph node dissection. In conclusion, D2 lymphadenectomy, originally developed by Eastern surgeons, is now becoming the procedure of choice also in the West. In gastric cancer surgery EBM is lagging behind national guidelines, rather than preceding and orienting them. To eliminate this lag, EBM should value to a larger extent Eastern Asian literature and should evaluate not only the quality of the study design but also the quality of surgical procedures.
基金Federal Agency for Support and Evaluation of Graduate Education (CAPES – Brazil, Grant ID 19/2016)Fondation for Research Support of Minas Gerais (FAPEMIG – Brazil)University of New South Wales (UNSW – Australia)
文摘Rock slope hazard assessment is an important part of risk analysis for open pit mines.The main parameters that can lead to rock slope failures are the parameters traditionally used in geomechanical classifications,the slope geometrical parameters and external factors like rainfall and blasting.This paper presents a methodology for a hazard assessment system for open pit mine slopes based on 88 cases collated around the world using principal components analysis,discriminant analysis and confidence ellipses.The historical cases used in this study included copper,gold,iron,diamond,lead and zinc,platinum and claystone mines.The variables used in the assessment methodology are uniaxial compressive strength of intact rock;spacing,persistence,opening,roughness,infilling and orientation of the main discontinuity set;weathering of the rock mass;groundwater;blasting method;and height and inclination of the pit.While principal component analysis was used to quantify the data,the discriminant analysis was used to establish a rule to classify new slopes about its stability condition.To provide a practical hazard assessment system,confidence ellipses were used to propose a hazard graph and generate the HAS-Q.The discriminant rule developed in this research has a high discrimination capacity with an error rate of 11.36%.
