Frequent Mode Research Articles

Most frequent mode for intra‐mode coding in video coding

The emerging versatile video coding (VVC) standard currently adopts 67 intra-prediction modes in order to improve the intra-prediction performance. The most probable mode (MPM) is used in video coding to encode the prediction mode efficiently based on the modes of the neighbouring blocks. Due to an increase in the number of intra-modes and increase in the resolution of the input sequence, it is necessary to efficiently encode the intra-mode of the current block. This Letter proposes an efficient intra-mode coding method extending MPM called most frequent mode (MFM), which exploits the number of occurrences of the modes in the neighbouring blocks. The proposed MFM derives the most frequent intra-mode. Then the derived MFM is signaled by a flag with a higher priority than MPM. Experimental results show that, compared to the test model of VVC (VTM), the proposed method gives up to 0.48% Bjotegaard-Delta-rate savings for the all-intra-configuration.

Extracellular signal-regulated kinase 5 increases radioresistance of lung cancer cells by enhancing the DNA damage response

Radiotherapy is a frequent mode of cancer treatment, although the development of radioresistance limits its effectiveness. Extensive investigations indicate the diversity of the mechanisms underlying radioresistance. Here, we aimed to explore the effects of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 5 (ERK5) on lung cancer radioresistance and the associated mechanisms. Our data showed that ERK5 is activated during solid lung cancer development, and ectopic expression of ERK5 promoted cell proliferation and G2/M cell cycle transition. In addition, we found that ERK5 is a potential regulator of radiosensitivity in lung cancer cells. Mechanistic investigations revealed that ERK5 could trigger IR-induced activation of Chk1, which has been implicated in DNA repair and cell cycle arrest in response to DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs). Subsequently, ERK5 knockdown or pharmacological inhibition selectively inhibited colony formation of lung cancer cells and enhanced IR-induced G2/M arrest and apoptosis. In vivo, ERK5 knockdown strongly radiosensitized A549 and LLC tumor xenografts to inhibition, with a higher apoptotic response and reduced tumor neovascularization. Taken together, our data indicate that ERK5 is a novel potential target for the treatment of lung cancer, and its expression might be used as a biomarker to predict radiosensitivity in NSCLC patients.

Bonding Interaction and Shrinkage Stress of Low-viscosity Bulk Fill Resin Composites With High-viscosity Bulk Fill or Conventional Resin Composites

To analyze the shrinkage stress, bonding interaction, and failure modes between different low-viscosity bulk fill resin composites and conventional resin composites produced by the same manufacturer or a high-viscosity bulk fill resin composite used to restore the occlusal layer in posterior teeth. Three low-viscosity bulk fill resin composites were associated with the conventional resin composites made by the same manufacturers or with a high-viscosity bulk fill resin composite, resulting in six groups (n=10). The bonding interaction between resin composites was tested by assessing the microshear bond strength (μSBS). The samples were thermocycled and were tested with 1-mm/min crosshead speed, and the failure mode was evaluated. The post-gel shrinkage (Shr) of all the resin composites was measured using a strain gauge (n=10). The modulus of elasticity (E) and the hardness (KHN) were measured using the Knoop hardness test. Two-dimensional finite element models were created for analyzing the stress caused by shrinkage and contact loading. The μSBS, Shr, E, and KHN data were analyzed using the Student t-test and one-way analysis of variance. The failure mode data were subjected to chi-square analysis (α=0.05). The stress distribution was analyzed qualitatively. No significant difference was verified for μSBS between low-viscosity bulk fill resin composites and conventional or high-viscosity bulk fill composites in terms of restoring the occlusal layer (p=0.349). Cohesive failure of the low-viscosity bulk fill resin composites was the most frequent failure mode. The Shr, E, and KHN varied between low-viscosity and high-viscosity resin composites. The use of high-viscosity bulk fill resin composites on the occlusal layer reduced the stress at the enamel interface on the occlusal surface. The use of high-viscosity bulk fill resin composites as an occlusal layer for low-viscosity bulk fill resin composites to restore the posterior teeth can be a viable alternative, as it shows a similar bonding interaction to conventional resin composites as well as lower shrinkage stress at the enamel margin.

Plants used by the rural community of Bananal, Mato Grosso, Brazil: Aspects of popular knowledge

Studies in rural communities are important to maintain popular knowledge between generations, as well as to identify new species for pharmaceutical production. Thus, the objectives of this study were to determine which plant species the rural community of Bananal, Mato Grosso, Brazil, uses by calculating the levels of fidelity and concordance regarding species uses among residents and to determine if there is a relationship between the number of known useful plants and levels of education, age, and residence time. Ethnobotanical data was collected from residents of the community through semi-structured interviews in January/December/2016. Species diversity was calculated using Shannon-Wiener, Level of Fidelity (LF), Correction Factor, and the Percentage of Agreement regarding the Main Uses (AMU). Statistical tests were performed using generalized linear models (GLM) in the R environment. The plant use indications were grouped according to the International Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD 10). We found 152 species belonging to 130 genera and 67 families. The most frequently used plant parts were leaves, and decoction was the most frequent preparation mode. Strychnos pseudoquina was the species with the highest amount of use indications. The diversity index was 4.5 nats/ind-1. The body system with the most citations was the code XVIII of ICD 10, corresponding to the species: alfavaca, mentraste, terramicina, angelim, fedegoso. Medicinal species with AMU values higher than 25% were: Strychnos pseudoquina, Plectranthus barbatus, Citrus sinensis cv. pera, Cymbopogon citratus. There was a relationship between the number of useful plants and the residence time of the participants. The Bananal community revealed high species richness and the relationship of knowledge showed that the older the residents and the longer their residence time in the community, the more knowledge they acquired.

Evaluation of Filtration-backwash Modes on Membrane Fouling Control for Activated Sludge Suspensions Treatment

This study focused on the effects of three different filtration-backwash modes on membrane fouling control for various sludge suspensions treatment. A relatively slow flux decline profile showed that more frequent and shorter backwashing mode (Mode 1) had a less fouling tendency. Moreover, this mode possessed higher capacity to remove the reversible fouling with higher hydraulic cleaning efficiency (HCE) and lower hydraulically irreversible fouling index (HIFI). Typically, when fed with higher carbon-to-nitrogen ratio suspension (SBR6), the HCE value of Mode 1 was over twice as high as that of Mode 3 (less frequent and longer backwashing).

Understanding lifetimes and failure modes of defective washing machines and dishwashers

The available literature on average lifetimes and failure modes of household appliances is mainly based on results of surveys conducted among end-users, but very little precise information can be found on specific failure modes and repair rates.The main objective of this study is to provide quantitative data about frequent failures and average service lifetimes of two household appliances, through the analysis of repair services performed by professional repair operators.We based our analysis on available datasets provided by a representative independent repair centre based in Europe, and we focused on the failures most frequently occurring and the potential repair or discard of the appliances. A database of about 11,000 diagnoses on defective washing machines and dishwashers was analysed, and frequent failure modes and repair rates were identified. The analysis was supported by a tailored visualisation of results.Concerning washing machines, recurring failures diagnosed by the repair operator regarded the electronics, shock absorbers and bearings, doors, carbon brushes and pumps. While the highest repair rates (repaired devices over total diagnosed devices with a specific failure mode) were observed for doors, carbon brushes and removal of foreign objects, the lowest rates were observed for bearings, drums and tubs, circulation pumps and electronics. Regarding dishwashers, recurring failures involved pumps, electronics, aquastop and valves, foreign objects and doors. The lowest repair rates, however, were again observed for circulation pumps and electronics. We also observed that the average service lifetime of an appliance not repaired by repair centre operators is 12.6 years for washing machines and 12 years for dishwashers.This work brings important knowledge on lifetimes and failure modes of defective washing machines and dishwashers, concerning in particular weak and critical components, but also age of appliances to be repaired. Based on the exercise on the two appliances, we discuss a possible classification scheme for repair services of household appliances, including both information retrieved by professional repair operators and information retrieved through interviews with end-users.

The effect of individualization of fiberglass posts using bulk-fill resin-based composites on cementation: an in vitro study.

ObjectivesThis study evaluated the bond strength of various fiberglass post cementation techniques using different resin-based composites.Materials and MethodsThe roots from a total of 100 bovine incisors were randomly assigned to 5 treatment groups: G1, post + Scotchbond Multi-Purpose (SBMP) + RelyX ARC luting agent; G2, relined post (Filtek Z250) + SBMP + RelyX ARC; G3, individualized post (Filtek Z250) + SBMP; G4, individualized post (Filtek Bulk-Fill) + SBMP; G5, individualized post (Filtek Bulk-Fill Flow) + SBMP. The samples were subjected to the push-out (n = 10) and pull-out (n = 10) bond strength tests. Data from the push-out bond strength test were analyzed using 2-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with the Bonferroni post hoc test, and data from the pull-out bond strength test were analyzed using 1-way ANOVA.ResultsThe data for push-out bond strength presented higher values for G2 and G5, mainly in the cervical and middle thirds, and the data from the apical third showed a lower mean push-out bond strength in all groups. No significant difference was noted for pull-out bond strength among all groups. The most frequent failure modes observed were adhesive failure between dentine and resin and mixed failure.ConclusionsFiberglass post cementation using restorative and flowable bulk-fill composites with the individualization technique may be a promising alternative to existing methods of post cementation.

The effect of office bleaching on the color and bond strength of resin restorations

Bleaching may affect the bond strength of existing composite fillings and may weaken it. Hence, the aim of this study was to find the best method of in-office bleaching with the least effect on microshear bond strength (MSBS) of existing composite resin fillings to tooth structure. In this in vitro study, Class V cavities were prepared on buccal surface of 50 extracted third human sound molars. The cavities in 25 teeth had enamel axial walls, Group E, which were divided into five subgroups of E1 through E5 and in 25 teeth had dentin axial walls, Group D, which were divided into five subgroups of D1 through D5. Cavities were treated with Single Bond 2 adhesive system and restored with composite resin (Z250). The corresponding subgroups received similar bleaching methods and materials; 1 - not bleached, 2 - hydrogen peroxide (HP) 25%, 3 - HP + ultraviolet light, 4 - HP + light-emitting diode-curing device, and 5 - HP + diode laser. Teeth colors were monitored before and after bleaching, and MSBS test and failure modes were examined. Results were analyzed with one-way ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests. P < 0.05 was considered significant. One-way ANOVA did not show differences in MSBS of enamel subgroups but showed significant differences in dentin subgroups (P < 0.00). Adhesive fracture in all of the subgroups was the most frequent mode of failure. Kruskal-Wallis test showed that laser was the most effective instrument to change ΔE. Diode laser was the best method for tooth bleaching because lowering the shear bond strength between composite resin and enamel was minimum and also had the most ΔE in tooth bleaching.

Traditional usage of medicinal plants among the local communities of Peshawar valley, Pakistan

Peshawar has a miscellaneous range of population that consequently brought their traditional knowledge of plants to the valley. Aims of the study were to report and document the traditional knowledge of medicinal plants resources of the Peshawar valley. The main objective of the study was to assess and document the ethnobotanical uses of medicinal plants in the study area. Data collection was carried out from March 2017 to December 2017. About 250 informants of different ages were interviewed; most of them were aged people between 60 and 70 years. The interviews were conducted using structured questioner composed of various questions about the ethnomedicinal uses of plants. The data was quantitatively analyzed using quantitative indices like frequency citation FC, use value (UV), use report (UR), relative frequency citation (RFC) Fidelity level (FL) and Jaccard index (JI). A comparison with previous ethnomedicinal studies in order to report some novel uses. A total of 71 plants species belonging to 59 genera and 31 families were being used for various ailment treatments. Out of 31 families, Asteraceae and Amaranthaceae (7 species each) were found the dominant families. Regarding plant habit, herbs 63% were the leading growth form. Leaves were the most frequently used part of the plant in the preparation of medicines. The most frequent mode of preparation was decoction while the oral route of administration was the preferred mode of administration. A review of the active compounds of the reported plants was also documented to authenticate the data. Medicinal plants for high ranked diseases to be to screen for further ethnopharmacological and phytochemical studies. The medicinal flora of the valley is facing improper collection, overgrazing, browsing, deforestation, industrialization, construction of roads and buildings. Therefore proper conservation strategies may be adapted to promote the sustainable use of medicinal plants.

Stator Winding Fault Thermal Signature Monitoring and Analysis by In Situ FBG Sensors

Winding short circuit faults are recognized as one of most frequent electric machine failure modes. Effective on-line diagnosis of these is vital, but remains a challenging task, in particular, at incipient fault stage. This paper reports a novel technique for on-line detection of incipient stator short circuit faults in random wound electrical machines based on in situ monitoring of windings thermal signature using electrically nonconductive and electromagnetic interference immune fiber-Bragg grating (FBG) temperature sensors. The presented method employs distributed thermal monitoring, based on the FBG multiplexing feature, in a variety of points within windings, in proximity to thermal hot spots of interest that arise from fault. The ability of the proposed method to enable fault diagnosis through identification of fault-induced localized thermal excitation is validated in steady-state and transient operating conditions on a purpose built inverter driven induction machine test facility. The results demonstrate the capability of unambiguous detection of inter-turn faults, including a single shorted turn. Furthermore, the winding thermal and electrical characteristics at the onset of inter-turn fault are examined and correlated, enabling better understanding of fault diagnostic requirements.

Genome and Transcriptome Sequencing of the Astaxanthin-Producing Green Microalga, Haematococcus pluvialis.

Haematococcus pluvialis is a freshwater species of Chlorophyta, family Haematococcaceae. It is well known for its capacity to synthesize high amounts of astaxanthin, which is a strong antioxidant that has been utilized in aquaculture and cosmetics. To improve astaxanthin yield and to establish genetic resources for H. pluvialis, we performed whole-genome sequencing, assembly, and annotation of this green microalga. A total of 83.1 Gb of raw reads were sequenced. After filtering the raw reads, we subsequently generated a draft assembly with a genome size of 669.0 Mb, a scaffold N50 of 288.6 kb, and predicted 18,545 genes. We also established a robust phylogenetic tree from 14 representative algae species. With additional transcriptome data, we revealed some novel potential genes that are involved in the synthesis, accumulation, and regulation of astaxanthin production. In addition, we generated an isoform-level reference transcriptome set of 18,483 transcripts with high confidence. Alternative splicing analysis demonstrated that intron retention is the most frequent mode. In summary, we report the first draft genome of H. pluvialis. These genomic resources along with transcriptomic data provide a solid foundation for the discovery of the genetic basis for theoretical and commercial astaxanthin enrichment.

Cultural and Transnational Influences on the Use of Information Communication Technologies in Adult Long-Distance Family Relationships: An Extension of Media Multiplexity Theory

ABSTRACTGeographically dispersed family members utilize frequent and diverse modes of communication to maintain their relationships. In transnational families separated by national boarders, family members may face constraints on channel selection due to cultural and/or structural factors. We draw from media multiplexity theory (MMT) and the cultural dimensions model to examine how transnationalism, societal individualism-collectivism (I-C), family allocentrism, and relational closeness influence the use of information communication technologies (ICTs) to maintain long-distance family relationships (LDFRs). Whereas results of the analysis provide cross-cultural support for MMT’s predictions regarding closeness and ICT frequency, the analysis reveals little support for MMT’s predictions regarding closeness and ICT variety. This study extends MMT by including culture in the study of relational closeness and ICT use, highlights the importance of family allocentrism when applying MMT to LDFRs, and demonstrates how transnational families can have frequent communication to maintain close, long-distance ties despite limited channel variety. Keywords: Culture, Immigrants, Information Communication Technologies, Long Distance Families, Relational ClosenessThis work was supported by the Humanities Center Faculty Fellowship program at Wayne State University.

Bipolar lophotrichous Helicobacter suis combine extended and wrapped flagella bundles to exhibit multiple modes of motility

The swimming strategies of unipolar flagellated bacteria are well known but little is known about how bipolar bacteria swim. Here we examine the motility of Helicobacter suis, a bipolar gastric-ulcer-causing bacterium that infects pigs and humans. Phase-contrast microscopy of unlabeled bacteria reveals flagella bundles in two conformations, extended away from the body (E) or flipped backwards and wrapped (W) around the body. We captured videos of the transition between these two states and observed three different swimming modes in broth: with one bundle rotating wrapped around the body and the other extended (EW), both extended (EE), and both wrapped (WW). Only EW and WW modes were seen in porcine gastric mucin. The EW mode displayed ballistic trajectories while the other two displayed superdiffusive random walk trajectories with slower swimming speeds. Separation into these two categories was also observed by tracking the mean square displacement of thousands of trajectories at lower magnification. Using the Method of Regularized Stokeslets we numerically calculate the swimming dynamics of these three different swimming modes and obtain good qualitative agreement with the measurements, including the decreased speed of the less frequent modes. Our results suggest that the extended bundle dominates the swimming dynamics.

Does the cement mantle thickness influence the glenoid loosening in anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty? An experimental study

BackgroundGlenoid component loosening is the most frequent failure mode. Few data are available on the effect of thickness of cement on glenoid loosening. The purpose of this study is to determine if the cement mantle thickness influences the mode and localization of loosening. Our hypotheses are: 1) failure is caused by traction stresses generated within the cement mantle and 2) a thicker cement mantle amplifies the rocking horse effect. MethodsUsing bone substitute, an experimental protocol was designed to compare loosening of a keeled glenoid prosthesis in axial traction and off-centered-load, to recreate the rocking-horse effect (1.000.000 cycles). Different standardized mantle of cement between the back of the glenoid and the foam were tested (0–1 – 2–3 mm). The displacement of the polyethylene was assessed with an LVDT (Linear Variable Differential Transformer) gauge when the prosthetic humeral head loaded the opposite part of the implant. ResultsThe loosening took place within the keel of the implant, and at the polyethylene–cement interface in traction if there was cement at the back of the polyethylene. For cycling loading, we observed a loosening at this interface, with associated fracture of the cement, only for cement 2 and 3 mm thick. ConclusionThis experimental study suggests that the cement mantle should be as thin as possible between the back of the implant and the sub-chondral bone but should be optimized around the keel of the implant. Level of evidenceBasic Science Study.

Does a Self-etching Ceramic Primer Improve Bonding to Lithium Disilicate Ceramics? Bond Strengths and FESEM Analyses.

To compare the effect of hydrofluoric acid (HF) vs self-etching ceramic primer on resin cement microshear bond strength (μSBS) and ultramorphology of lithium disilicate (LD) ceramic. LD (IPS e.max CAD, Ivoclar Vivadent) blocks (14×4×2 mm3) were polished to 1200 grit and assigned to nine groups (n=5): CON: control, no LD surface treatment; IVO: 5.0% HF (IPS Ceramic Etching Gel, Ivoclar Vivadent); VIT: 5.0% HF (Vita Ceramics Etch, VITA Zahnfabrik); FGM: 5.0% HF (Condac Porcelana, FGM); ULT: 9.0% HF (Porcelain Etch, Ultradent); PRM: 9.6% HF (Premier Porcelain Etch Gel, Premier); BIS: 9.5% HF (Porcelain Etchant, Bisco Inc); DEN: 10.0% HF (Condicionador de Porcelanas, Dentsply Brazil); and MEP: self-etching ceramic primer (Monobond Etch & Prime, Ivoclar Vivadent). For all HF groups and control, an MDP-containing silane solution (MB+, Monobond Plus, Ivoclar Vivadent) was applied on rinsing the HF gel and air drying. Three transparent matrices for each specimen were filled with light-cured resin cement (Variolink Veneer, Ivoclar Vivadent). After storage in water for 48 hours at 37°C, specimens were tested in shear mode to measure μSBS. Mode of failure was analyzed at 50×. Statistical analysis included one-way analysis of variance and the Duncan post hoc test (α=0.05). Thirty-six additional LD specimens were assigned to the same experimental groups (n=4) and observed under a field-emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) at magnifications ranging from 10,000× to 100,000×. IVO resulted in statistically higher mean μSBS than all the other groups. MEP resulted in statistically lower μSBS than all HF groups. The failure mode for MEP was predominantly adhesive. The most frequent failure mode for the HF groups was mixed. CON resulted in 100% pretesting failures. For FESEM, no retentive pattern was observed for CON specimens. MEP resulted in the least pronounced etching pattern, few areas around crystals exhibited a slight increase in retention pattern compared to the control group. All HF gels created microporosities on the LD surface with distinct etching patterns. VIT and DEN resulted in an LD ultramorphology that suggested overetching. HF etching followed by a silane solution resulted in higher bond strengths than a self-etching ceramic primer. Some HF gels may cause overetching of the LD intaglio surface.

Clinical errors: Implementing root cause analysis in an area health service

ABSTRACT Introduction: Medical errors are considered as threatening the patients’ health and well-being in healthcare and treatment systems. There are various methods offered for managing the clinical risks and ensuring the healthcare quality and patient safety. Root cause analysis (RCA) is one of these methods. So, the current research paper aims at radically analyzing seven sentinel events reported to one of the large vice-chancellorships in Medical Sciences Universities in Iran. Method: The present study is a descriptive research which has been carried out based on a qualitative-retrospective method according to the eight stages elaborated in root cause analysis of healthcare events determined by National Authority for Health. To classify the identified problems, there was made use of ‘classifying nursing errors in clinical management (NECM)’ model, error cause classification, approved by the UK National Health System and then an innovative problem-solving method was applied to determine the improvement solutions. The information about the items in RCA forms was collected after obtaining a consensus of experts’ panel views via interviews and focus group discussion sessions. Findings: For the 7 sentinel events, 30 problems related to the service or healthcare was identified. Out of the 30 identified problems, the most problem related to care problems (45.4%) and the least frequent problem related to knowledge and skill problems (14.5%). Inter alia the 406 influential causes mentioned, the most frequent cause error modes pertained to organizational factors (20.1%) and the least frequent cause error modes referred to patient-related and patient-companion related factors (6.1%). Moreover, the highest rate of interventions was taken in such areas as human resources management and implementing and monitoring suitable changes in clinical processes. Conclusion: According to the usefulness of error root cause analysis in regard to such issues as patients’ safety, the systematic evaluation of sentinel events and incidents in sectors offering healthcare and treatment services is recommended. It is evident that the success of the corrective interventions in healthcare and treatment centers depends on policy-making and corroboration of the executive and supervisory levers and it is not possible without full-scale coordination and support by the various sectors connected to the social health.

Where Are You Going, Nephrology? Considerations on Models of Care in an Evolving Discipline.

Nephrology is a complex discipline, including care of kidney disease, dialysis, and transplantation. While in Europe, about 1:10 individuals is affected by chronic kidney disease (CKD), 1:1000 lives thanks to dialysis or transplantation, whose costs are as high as 2% of all the health care budget. Nephrology has important links with surgery, bioethics, cardiovascular and internal medicine, and is, not surprisingly, in a delicate balance between specialization and comprehensiveness, development and consolidation, cost constraints, and competition with internal medicine and other specialties. This paper proposes an interpretation of the different systems of nephrology care summarising the present choices into three not mutually exclusive main models (“scientific”, “pragmatic”, “holistic”, or “comprehensive”), and hypothesizing an “ideal-utopic” prevention-based fourth one. The so-called scientific model is built around kidney transplantation and care of glomerulonephritis and immunologic diseases, which probably pose the most important challenges in our discipline, but do not mirror the most common clinical problems. Conversely, the pragmatic one is built around dialysis (the most expensive and frequent mode of renal replacement therapy) and pre-dialysis treatment, focusing attention on the most common diseases, the holistic, or comprehensive, model comprehends both, and is integrated by several subspecialties, such as interventional nephrology, obstetric nephrology, and the ideal-utopic one is based upon prevention, and early care of common diseases. Each model has strength and weakness, which are commented to enhance discussion on the crucial issue of the philosophy of care behind its practical organization. Increased reflection and research on models of nephrology care is urgently needed if we wish to rise to the challenge of providing earlier and better care for older and more complex kidney patients with acute and chronic kidney diseases, with reduced budgets.

Study of the induction motor electric drive efficiency in transients during their acceleration

The electric drive with a squirrel-caged induction motor working in frequent start-stop modes is the object of this study. These drives have wide applications nowadays, such as in electric vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles, so improvement of their efficiency during the transients is an important task today. The one of the problems of such drives lays in the high energy consumption during the transients, especially if we talk about the acceleration of the motor. Due to the high starting currents large amount of consumed energy is dispersed as heat on the motor windings. The experimental studies carried out in this work have proved the necessity of limitations of these currents. However, such a decision will lead to the increase of the motor acceleration period which means that the starting currents, even having lesser magnitude, will last longer. This consequence will, therefore, also cause higher energy losses. So, there should be a point of the optimum – the acceleration period, during which the electric drive consumes the least possible energy. In order to determine the optimal acceleration period, the computer model of the electric drive with a squirrel-caged induction motor, controlled by a smooth start device, was developed in this paper. The smooth start device provides the possibility of evenly increasing of the voltage from zero to the rated value. The research has proven the existence of the optimal voltage increasing period, during which the motor acceleration heat losses are minimal. This optimal point depends only on the motor-drive system parameters and remains consistent for any applied load. The research results provide the possibility of improving the efficiency of the electric drives working in frequent start-stop modes due to a slight increasing of the motor acceleration period that leads to the reduction of the starting currents.

Prevalence of Celiac Disease in Patients With Iron Deficiency Anemia—A Systematic Review With Meta-analysis

Anemia is common in patients with celiac disease (CD) and a frequent mode of presentation. Guidelines recommend screening patients with iron-deficiency anemia (IDA) for CD. However, the reported prevalence of CD in patients with IDA varies. We performed a systematic review to determine the prevalence of biopsy-verified CD in patients with IDA. We performed a systematic review of articles published in PubMed Medline or EMBASE through July 2017 for the term "celiac disease" combined with "anemia" or "iron deficiency." We used fixed-effects inverse variance-weighted models to measure the pooled prevalence of CD. Meta-regression was used to assess subgroup heterogeneity. We identified 18 studies composed of 2998 patients with IDA for inclusion in our analysis. Studies originated from the United Kingdom, United States, Italy, Turkey, Iran, and Israel. The crude unweighted prevalence of CD was 4.8% (n= 143). Using a weighted pooled analysis, we found a prevalence of biopsy-confirmed CD of 3.2% (95% confidence interval = 2.6-3.9) in patients with IDA. However, heterogeneity was high (I2= 67.7%). The prevalence of CD was not significantly higher in studies with a mean participant age older or younger than 18 years or in studies with a mixed-sex vs female-predominant (≥60%) population. On meta-regression, year of publication, female proportion, age at CD testing, and prevalence in the general population were not associated with the prevalence of CD in patients with IDA. In the 8 studies fulfilling all our quality criteria, the pooled prevalence of CD was 5.5% (95% confidence interval= 4.1-6.9). In a systematic review and meta-analysis, we found that approximately 1 in 31 patients with IDA have histologic evidence of CD. This prevalence value justifies the practice of testing patients with IDA for CD.

Time location sampling in men who have sex with men in the HIV context: the importance of taking into account sampling weights and frequency of venue attendance.

Sex between men is the most frequent mode of HIV transmission in industrialised countries. Monitoring risk behaviours among men who have sex with men (MSM) is crucial, especially to understand the drivers of the epidemic. A cross-sectional survey (PREVAGAY), based on time-location sampling, was conducted in 2015 among MSM attending gay venues in 5 metropolitan cities in France. We applied the generalised weight share method (GWSM) to estimate HIV seroprevalence for the first time in this population, taking into account the frequency of venue attendance (FVA). Our objectives were to describe the implementation of the sampling design and to demonstrate the importance of taking into account sampling weights, including FVA by comparing results obtained by GWSM and by other methods which use sample weights not including FVA or no weight. We found a global prevalence of 14.3% (95% CI (12.0-16.9)) using GWSM and an unweighted prevalence of 16.4% (95% CI (14.9-17.8)). Variance in HIV prevalence estimates in each city was lower when we did not take into account either the sampling weights or the FVA. We also highlighted an association of FVA and serological status in the most of investigated cities.