bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A survey on the readiness of Industry 4.0 adoption in the manufacturing sectors
Authors: Nimawat Dheeraj , Gidwani Bhagwan Das
Published: April 2021

In developed countries, the majority of manufacturing companies are moving to Industry 4.0 to stay competitive. But as far as concerning the developing countries there should be need of proper knowledge about the Industry 4.0. The findings of the survey are presented in this article for evaluating the readiness of manufacturing industries in Indian perspective to adopt Industry 4.0 innovations. Also, readiness factors were validated based on the benefits realized by manufacturing industries as a result of implementing Industry 4.0 technologies through the development of hypotheses. Besides, this survey is the first to examine Industry 4.0 adoption status in Indian manufacturing industries. According to the findings, readiness factors have a significant relationship with the benefits achieved through the implementation of Industry 4.0, and research agenda for the future are discussed.
Early post-ischemic glucose metabolism is dependent on function of TLR2: a study using [18F]FDG PET-CT in a mouse model of cardiac arrest and cardiopulmonary resuscitation
Authors: Bajorat Rika , Kurth Jens , Stenzel Jan , Vollmar Brigitte , Krause Bernd J. , Reuter Daniel A. , Schuerholz Tobias , Bergt Stefan
Published: April 2021

Purpose: An ischemic brain injury caused by cardiac arrest (CA) and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) affects cerebral function and presumably also brain glucose metabolism. The majority of patients who survive CA suffer from cognitive deficits and physical disabilities. Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) plays a cruical role in inflammatory response in ischemia and reperfusion (I/R). Since deficiency of TLR2 was associated with increased survival after CA-CPR, in this study glucose metabolism was measured using non-invasive [18F]FDG PET-CT imaging before and early after CA-CPR in a mouse model comparing wild type (WT) and TLR2-deficient (TLR2-/-) mice. Methods: Two PET-CT scans using [18F]FDG tracer were carried out to measure dynamic glucose metabolism before and early after CPR. To achieve this, anesthetized and ventilated adult female WT and TLR2-/- mice were scanned in PET-CT. After recovery from the baseline scan, the same animals underwent 10-minute CA followed by CPR and approximately 90 min after CA measurements of [18F]FDG uptake were started. The [18F]FDG standardized uptake values (SUVs) were calculated using PMOD-Software on fused FDG-PET-CT images with the included 3D Mirrione-Mouse-Brain-Atlas. Results: The absolute SUV of glucose in the whole brain of WT mice was increased after CA-CPR. In contrast, the absolute glucose SUV in the whole brain of TLR2-/- mice was not significantly different between basal and measurements after CA-CPR. In comparison, basal measurements of both mouse strains show a significant difference in the whole brain absolute glucose SUVs, whereby TLR2-/- mice revealed 34.6% higher values. The altered mouse strains presented a different pattern in glucose uptake under normal and ischemic conditions. Conclusion: There is evidence that the post-ischemic differences in glucose metabolism were associated with the function of TLR2 and that PET-CT imaging could be useful as an additional methodology in assessing diagnosis and prognosis during post-cardiac arrest care. Further studies are needed.
Efficient Placement of Splitters in Optical WDM Network
Authors: Dafeur Abdelhakim , Cousin Bernard , Ziani Rezki
Published: April 2021

In this paper, we investigate the splitter placement problem in an optical WDM network. The goal is to select a given number of MC nodes in the network such that the overall link cost of a multicast session is minimized. We present an exact formulation in integer linear programming ( ILP ) to find a set of trees that connects a source to a set of destination nodes. Then, four algorithms based on network topology metrics are proposed to select a given number of MC nodes in the network such that the overall link cost of a multicast session is minimized. The efficiency of the proposed algorithms is verified by simulation results.
Supporting Resilience and the Management of Grief and Loss: de Souza Program for Health Professionals
Authors: Esplen Mary Jane , Wong Jiahui , Vachon Mary , Leung Yvonne , Bakirci Sarah
Published: April 2021

Health professionals in cancer care often face the challenge of stressful work environment, along with the impacts of providing care to those suffering from a life- threatening illness. Prevalence rates of compassion fatigue (CF) are moderate to high, yet health professionals have little knowledge on the topic. Purpose: The objective of this study was to evaluate an educational program on knowledge of CF and strategies to support the management of grief and loss in practice. Methods: A six-week program consisting of weekly video-conferencing sessions, case-based learning and an online community of practice was evaluated. Program content included personal, organization and team-related risk and protective factors associated with CF, and strategies to mitigate against CF. Participants prepared personal plans. A standardized grief tool (RGEI) was given at baseline and pre and post surveys assessed confidence and knowledge and satisfaction. Results: 189 health professionals completed the program (90% nurses). Patient loss in practices was high (58.8% >10 deaths annually; 12.2% >50). The program demonstrated significant improvement in confidence and knowledge across several domains (p < 0.05), including the use of grief assessment tools, risk factors for CF, and strategies to mitigate against CF. Personal plans varied from individual, team or organizational level strategies. Satisfaction ratings were high. Conclusion: The results show benefit associated with an educational program that aims to improve knowledge of CF and assisted health care providers to develop personal plans/ strategies towards resilience. Further research is needed to assess longer term follow up and with designs that include a control group.
Ultra-wide bandgap semiconductor behavior of NaCaF3 fluoro-perovskite with external static isotropic pressure and its impact on optical properties: First-principles computation
Authors: Gillani Syed Sajid Ali , Fatima Nisar , Shakil M. , Kiran R. , Tahir M. B. , Jawad A. , Ahmad Riaz
Published: April 2021

A comprehensive theoretical study to investigate the outcomes of externally applied static isotropic pressure (0 GPa - 50 GPa) on electronic, optical and structural properties of NaCaF3, using density functional theory (DFT) based CASTEP (Cambridge Serial Total Energy Package) code with ultra-soft pseudo-potential USP plane wave and Perdew Burke Ernzerhof (PBE) exchange-correlation functional of Generalized Gradient Approximation (GGA), is reported. The electronic bandgap shows the increasing trend 4.773 eV - 6.203 eV (direct bandgap) with increasing external pressure. The increase in bandgap is significant up to 20 GPa as compared to higher external pressures. The mystery of increasing band gap is nicely decoded by total density of states (TDOS) and elemental partial density of states (EPDOS). Optical properties have been calculated to analyze the impact of increment in band gap on them. We observed that highest peak of energy loss function L(w) shows the blue shift which confirms the increment of band gap. At zero photon energy, for 0 GPa, the static refractive index n(w) has value of 1.4456. After applying external pressure, there is a slight increase in n(w) which favors the semiconducting behavior of ternary compound. The energy points at which the absorption peak is maxima, the refractive index has lowest value.
Improved bit error rate evaluation of M-ary DPPM modulation using an aperture averaging for FSO systems impaired by interchannel crosstalk and ASE noise
Authors: Elsayed Ebrahim E.
Published: April 2021

The performance evaluation of free-space optical (FSO) communication system using the digital pulse position modulation (DPPM) and on-off keying non-return-to-zero (OOK-NRZ) approach are investigated in this paper. The impact of atmospheric turbulence, scintillation and amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) noise has been taken into account. To reduce the turbulence-induced scintillation and optical power penalty, the use aperture averaging has been proposed in this paper. To evaluate the bit-error rate (BER) performance in the presence the atmospheric turbulence and amplified spontaneous emission (ASE), the use of the moment generation function techniques are explained with the modified Chernoff bound that is more accurate and an appropriate from Chernoff bound. Such a system, which could provide a power efficient, a low cost, excessive flexibility and reliable or considered a massive solution in the bandwidth provision for future access networks, and together for higher data rate. The BER, are given for an optically preamplified DPPM FSO communication system impaired by pointing error and atmospheric turbulence combined, in addition to the ASE noise arising from the optical amplification. The gamma–gamma distribution model is used to characterize the whole range of turbulence conditions. The results reveal the superiority of DPPM with improved receiver sensitivity (at a binary data rate 2.5 Gbps and at typical FSO BER of 10-9) of about 10 dB – 11 dB for coding level (M) of 5 and optical link length (for turbulent interaction) of 2000 m more than an equivalent optically preamplified OOK-NRZ approach, depending on the leve of turbulence.
Restoring Drying Lakes with Treated Agricultural Effluents under a Carbon-based Payments for Ecosystem Services Incentive
Authors: ranjan ram
Published: April 2021

Wetlands store a significant proportion of terrestrial carbon, however, when degraded and dry, they can become net carbon emitters. Climatic stressors, such as rising temperature and reduced precipitation, further exacerbate carbon release risks. This study explores incentivizing adoption of constructed wetlands (CW) on agricultural farms for treating effluents and releasing into drying lakes. A payment for ecosystem services (PES) framework is developed to analyze land use allocation decisions of farmers towards adopting CWs on their private farms. Release of treated agricultural wastewater helps a drying lake remain wet under a warming climate preventing release of carbon stored in its soils. Results indicate that PES payments equaling 10,000 to 20,000 INR (150–300 US dollars) per mega litre (ML) can be effective in incentivizing adoption of CWs on farms in India, and their benefits to drying lakes can be significant. Specifically, life of lakes can be prolonged to more than 100 years under such PES based schemes besides resulting in substantial carbon storage in soils. Such PES schemes can be a cost-effective way to not only protect and conserve lakes for their biodiversity and livelihood benefits but also from a carbon mitigation perspective. Results further show that when a social planner allocates land between farming and CW, incorporating the carbon sequestration benefits of lakes and when facing a risk of abrupt and permanent drying of lakes, their adoption rate is higher compared to that of the farmers. When extrapolated, carbon benefits from such PES programs for the entire country could be nearly 15 trillion USD over the next 100 years.
Cybersecurity Threats Detection In IoT Using Krill Based Deep Neural Network Stacked Auto Encoders
Authors: Rana Pragati , Chauhan Sanjeev , Patil B P
Published: April 2021

The Internet of things (IoT) has concerned much significance for some manufacturing sectors including clinical fields, co-ordinations following, savvy urban communities, and automobiles. Anyway as a worldview, it is sensitive to different sorts of cyber-attacks. Customary very good quality security resolutions for guarantee an IoT structure are not reasonable. This deduces clever organization-based security plans as AI arrangements ought to be made. In this work, we propose Cyber Security Threats recognition in IoT utilizing Krill Based Deep Neural Network Stacked Auto Encoders (KDNN-SAE). In our proposed approach, first, the information pre-processing measure was acted in the underlying development before isolating the dataset into two segments: preparing and test. At that point, flow-based features are extracted from the pre-processed information. By then, the properties to be utilized by the algorithms are chosen in the attribute determination utilizing the Genetic Algorithm (GA). At last, our methodology completes with the execution of the machine learning algorithm KDNN-SAE. The exploratory results show that the introduced method beats the existing techniques to different execution measures.
Nonlinear vibration analysis of the nanobeams subjected to magneto-electro-thermo loading based on a novel HSDT
Authors: Mohammadi Reza
Published: April 2021

In this paper, the nonlinear vibration analysis of the nanobeams subjected to magneto-electro-thermo loading based on a novel HSDT is studied. Nonlocal elasticity theory is applied to consider the small scale effect. The nonlinear equations of motion are derived using Hamilton’s principle. First, a Galerkin-based numerical technique is applied to reduce the nonlinear governing equation into a set of Duffing-type time-dependent differential equations. Afterward, the analytical solutions are derived based on the method of multiple scales (MMS) and perturbation technique. All of the mechanical properties of the beam are temperature dependent. The impacts of the several variables are investigated on the nonlinear frequency ratio of the nanobeams. The results illustrate that when maximum deflection is smaller/ greater than 0.2, its impact on the nonlinear frequency ratio will decrease/increase.
Kallikrein-related peptidases in triple negative breast cancer: prognostic value of quantitatively assessed KLK8, KLK10 and KLK11 mRNA expression
Authors: Liu Yueyang , Preis Sarah , Xiaocong Geng , Gong Weiwei , Kiechle Marion , Dreyer Tobias , Magdolen Viktor , Dorn Julia
Published: April 2021

Background. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a breast cancer subtype with poor prognosis and limited targeted therapy options. Multiple KLKs have been described to play key roles in carcinogenesis and metastasis of breast cancer. Purpose. In the present study, the clinical significance of KLK8, KLK10, and KLK11 mRNA expression in tumor tissue of TNBC patients was investigated. Methods. The mRNA expression levels of KLK8, 10, and 11 were quantified by quantitative PCR and their prognostic values were analyzed in a large, well-characterized TNBC cohort (n = 123). Results. Significantly positive correlations were observed between all three KLK mRNA levels indicating coordinate expression of these proteases in TNBC. In univariate analyses, both elevated KLK8, KLK10 as well as all combinations of the three factors (KLK8 + KLK10, KLK8 + KLK11, KLK10 + KLK11, KLK8 + KLK10 + KLK11) were significantly associated with shortened disease-free survival (DFS), while high mRNA levels of KLK11, as well as KLK10 + KLK11 were significantly associated with shortened overall survival (OS). In multivariate Cox regression analyses, KLK10 and all combined factors remained unfavorable independent predictive markers for DFS, while high KLK11 mRNA expression represented an unfavorable independent predictor for OS. Conclusions. Increased KLK8, KLK10, and KLK11 mRNA expression levels are associated with unfavorable prognosis in triple-negative breast cancer. The combination of KLK8 + KLK10 + KLK11 may represent a stronger prognostic biomarker for DFS than KLK8, KLK10, KLK11 alone, or other combinations thereof, whereas KLK11 mRNA expression is an independent prognostic biomarker for OS in TNBC patients.
Development of Multi-channel Electro-conductive Nanofibrous Conduits for Peripheral Nerve Regeneration
Authors: Nazeri Niloofar , Derakhshan Mohammad Ali , Mansoori Korosh , Ghanbari Hossein
Published: April 2021

Multichannel structures in the design of nerve conduits offer potential advantages for regeneration of damaged nerves due to their bio-mimicking architecture. However, lack of biochemical cues and electrical stimulation could hamper satisfactory nerve regeneration. The aim of this study was to simultaneously evaluate the effects of topographical, biological and electrical cues on sciatic nerve regeneration in a rat model. Accordingly, a series of multichannel nanofibrous nerve conduit was made using longitudinally-aligned laminin-coated electrospun PLGA/CNT nanofibers (NF, mean diameter: 455 ± 362 nm) in the lumen and randomly-oriented PCL NF (mean diameter: 340 ± 200 nm) on the outer surface. In vitro studies revealed that both materials were nontoxic to Schwann cells and able to promote cell attachment and proliferation. To determine the influence of topographical, biological and electrical cues on nerve regeneration, either of hollow PCL conduits, PLGA NF-embedded, PLGA/CNT NF-embedded or laminin-coated PLGA/CNT NF-embedded PCL conduits were implanted in rats. A new surgery method was utilized and results were compared with an autograft. After animal treatments, motor and sensory tests showed significant improvement in the rats treated with NF-embedded PCL conduits. H&E images obtained from cross-sectional and, longitudinal-sections of the regenerated nerves demonstrated the formation of regenerative nerve fibers and also, angiogenesis in laminin-coated PLGA/CNT NF-embedded PCL conduits. Results suggested that these conduits have the potential for clinical application to reconstruct peripheral nerve defects.
The Interplay of Macrofauna Functional Groups Shapes Nitrogen Cycling in Oligotrophic Estuarine Sediments
Authors: Zilius Mindaugas , Daunys Darius , Bartoli Marco , Marzocchi Ugo , Bonaglia Stefano , Cardini Ulisse , Castaldelli Giuseppe
Published: April 2021

The effects of single macrofauna species on benthic nitrogen (N) cycling has been extensively studied, whereas the effect of macrofauna communities on N-related processes remains poorly explored. In this study, we characterized benthic N-cycling in bioturbated sediments of an oligotrophic northern Baltic waters (Öre estuary). Solute fluxes and N transformations (N2 fixation, denitrification and DNRA) were measured in sediments and in macrofauna-bacteria holobionts to partition the role of three dominant macrofauna taxa (Limnecola balthica, Marenzelleria sp. and Monoporeia affinis) in shaping N-cycling, and to disentangle the contribution of different functional groups within the community. In the studied area, benthic macrofauna comprised a low diversity community with extremely high local dominance of three macrofauna taxa, which are widespread and dominant in the Baltic. The biomass of these three taxa in the benthic community explained up to 30% of variation in measured biogeochemical processes, confirming their role in ecosystem functioning. The results also show that these taxa significantly contributed to the benthic metabolism and N-cycling (direct effect) as well as reworked sediments with positive feedback to dissimilative nitrate reduction (indirect effect). Taken together, these functions promoted a re-use of nutrient at the benthic level, limiting net losses (e.g. denitrification) and effluxes to bottom water. Finally, the detection of multiple N transformations in dominating macrofauna holobionts suggested a community-associated active and versatile microbiome, which alternatively contributes to the biogeochemical processes. The present study highlights hidden and interactive effects among microbes and macrofauna, which should be considered in analysing benthic functioning.
Numerical simulation of Gate shape effect on Self-Heating in nano-MOSFET Transistors with high-k dielectric
Authors: Belkheria Maissa , Echouchene Fraj , Bajahzar Abdullah , belmabrouk hafedh
Published: April 2021

The aim of the present work is to investigate numerically the self-heating effect (SHE) in MOSFET transistors based on high-k material taking into account the deformation of the gate under the SHE. The SHE inside the MOSFET transistor is calculated using the electrothermal model based on heat transfer equation coupled with semiconductor equations. The electrothermal model have been solved in 2D-dimension using the finite element method. The high-k dielectric HfO2 have been used as gate oxide. Several gate shapes have been used to analyze their impact on SHE. It is observed that the reduction of equivalent oxide thickness (EOT) reduces the SHE in the MOSFET transistor based in high-k dielectric material. the temperature peak increases quadratically with drain voltage for all MOSFET structures. A decrease in self-heating effect is achieved using the square gate shape.
Chitosan Depolymerization: A Simple and Promising Chemical Process for the Preparation of Bioactive Varying Molecular Weight Derivatives
Authors: Affes Sawsan , Maalej Hana , Aranaz Inmaculada , Acosta Niuris , Heras Ángeles , Nasri Moncef
Published: April 2021

In order to improve functional and biological properties of shrimp chitosan and to facilitate its utilization, chitosan derivatives were prepared by chemical depolymerization using hydrochloric acid (6 M) during 2 h. The obtained chitosan depolymerization products (CDP) were characterized in terms of molecular weight (Mw), acetylation (AD) and polymerization (DP) degrees, solubility, viscosity and crystallinity, and analyzed by FTIR spectroscopy. High Mw-CDP varying from 396 to 94 kDa and low Mw-CDP (< 4.4 kDa), with a DP up to 6 determined by MALDI-TOF, were withdrawn at different hydrolysis time and then desalted on chromatography Sephadex G-25 column. It is clearly demonstrated that the viscosity, the AD and the crystallinity decreased upon depolymerization, especially in low Mw-CDP. While, solubility in water and acetic acid were highly improved. FTIR analysis showed similar spectra of chitosan and CDP. The antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant properties of CDP were investigated and demonstrated that they were related to its Mw. Indeed, as compared to chitosan, high Mw derivatives, especially C120, possess higher antibacterial and antifungal potentials. While, low Mw-CDP, especially H120, exhibited the highest antioxidant properties. Interestingly, the used chemical depolymerization process seems to be an efficient, simple and easy method to produce bioactive chitosan derivatives with attractive characteristics to be applied in an industrial scale, especially as functional-food components.
An Independent Three-Dimensional (3D) Dose Verification System for Elekta Unity MR-Linac Online Plans
Authors: Lee Danny , Pavord Daniel , Oh Seungjong , Sohn Jason
Published: April 2021

PurposeTo implement an independent 3D dose verification system with RayStation (RaySearch, Stockholm, Sweden) for online adaptive radiotherapy on Elekta Unity MR-Linac (MRL). MethodsPlan quality of simple-single-field and intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) plans were investigated in a comparison of (1) Monte-Carlo calculated data using MRL Monaco with high magnetic field (1.5 T) and (2) Collapsed-Cone calculated data using RayStation. The dose quality of RayStation plans, compared to corresponding Monaco plans, was (1) visually inspected in percentage depth-dose curves, inline and crossline profiles, and (2) quantified in 3D gamma-passing-rates. Processing time was measured to evaluate the practical efficacy of our system using 5 prostate IMRT plans.ResultsCompared to Monaco simple-single-field plans as ground truth, RayStation simple-single-field plans achieved an average 95.7% and 98.5% in 2%/2mm and 3%/3mm of 3D gamma criteria, respectively. Gantry angle dependency in simple-single-field plans was <2% in both 2%/2mm and 3%/3mm, and field size dependency was <5% in 2%/2mm and <2% in 3%/3mm. Compared to Monaco IMRT plans, RayStation IMRT plans achieved an average 95.1% (3%/3mm). The entire processing time of the independent 3D dose verification system was an average approximately 200 s. ConclusionsThis was the study to implement an independent 3D dose verification process using RayStation with an in-house 3D gamma analysis software. This led to an average 95% plan quality in 3%/3mm gamma criteria and added an average 200 s throughout the entire verification processes. These results demonstrate that this approach can be applicable and efficient for online quality assurance for MRL online adaptive radiotherapy planning.
The insect somatostatin pathway gates vitellogenesis progression during reproductive maturation and the post-mating response
Authors: Zhang Chen , Pérez Crisalejandra Rivera , Noriega Fernando , Kim Young Joon
Published: April 2021

Oogenesis is closely linked with reproductive maturation and mating status in females. In the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster, vitellogenesis (yolk accumulation) is an important control point for oogenesis. Vitellogenesis begins upon eclosion and continues through the process of sexual maturation. Upon reaching sexual maturity, vitellogenesis is placed on hold until it is induced again by a mating signal. In flies, this mating signal is sex peptide (SP), a seminal substance that triggers robust egg-laying activity. However, the neural mechanisms that gate vitellogenesis in response to developmental and reproductive signals remain unclear. Here, we have identified a pair of thoracic ganglion neurons that produce the neuropeptide allatostatin C (AstC-mTh). AstC inhibits the biogenesis of juvenile hormone (JH), a key endocrine stimulator of vitellogenesis. Our genetic evidence indicates that AstC-mTh neurons gate both the initiation of vitellogenesis that occurs post-eclosion and its re-initiation post-mating. During sexual maturation, which takes place shortly after eclosion, AstC-mTh neurons are activated by excitatory inputs from SP abdominal ganglion (SAG) neurons. In mature virgin females, high sustained activity of SAG neurons seems to shut off vitellogenesis via continuous activation of the AstC-mTh neurons. Upon mating, however, SP inhibits SAG neurons, leading to AstC-mTh neuronal activation. As a result, the inhibition of the CA maintained by the AstC neurons is lifted. This permit both JH biosynthesis and the progression of vitellogenesis in mated females. Our work has uncovered a central neural circuit that gates the progression of oogenesis during sexual maturation and the post-mating response.
Implementing advance care planning in dementia care: results and insights from a pilot interventional trial
Authors: Bosisio Francesca , Sterie Anca , Truchard Eve Rubli , Jox Ralf J.
Published: April 2021

Background: Advance care planning (ACP) is particularly appropriate for persons with dementia (PWD) since it fosters conversation about dementia-specific illness scenarios, addresses inconsistencies between advance directives and patients’ observed behaviour, emphasises prospective and relational autonomy, and may be generally consistent to elderly’s decision-making needs. However, despite the evidence of its benefits, ACP is yet to become widely used among PWD. In this paper, we present results regarding the feasibility and acceptability of a pilot intervention designed to foster ACP among PWD and their relative and explore future outcome measures in prevision of a randomized controlled trial. Methods: In order to assess pre-post variations, we used qualitative interviews and four psychometric scales: Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Questionnaire of Psychological Autonomy, Decisional conflict scale, and Zarit burden scale. We added two visual analog scales for perceived control over and perceived involvement in healthcare decisions, as well as two hypothetic scenarios to test concordance between PWD’s and surrogate’s decisions.Results: Five main challenges in terms of feasibility were 1) to locate eligible patients, 2) to tailor recruitment procedures to recruitment locations, 3) to adapt inclusion criteria to meet clinical routines, 4) to engage PWD and their relatives in ACP, and 5) to choose outcome criteria that do not burden PWD. Alongside with those expected challenges, we discuss substantial unanticipated gatekeeping by the research ethics committee and healthcare professionals. Despite the setbacks, the intervention was well received by PWD and their relatives that expressed satisfaction with the procedure, especially in regard to the opportunity to discuss a sensitive topic with the help of a facilitator. Relatives’ perceived control over healthcare decisions increased, as well as concordance between PWD’s preferences and relatives’ decision. Conclusion: Misconceptions about dementia and ACP, both in the patient, relatives, and healthcare providers, combined with structural institutional challenges, have the power to impede research and implementation of ACP in dementia care. For this reason, we advocate for a systemic approach of ACP and for the use of ACP tools and research adapted to PWD cognitive capacities.Trial registration: This trial was registered in the database clinicaltrial.gov with the number NCT03615027
Sugeno Fuzzy Model Free Reinforced Transformation Based Data Processing for Healthcare Sources in IoT Environment
Authors: Veerappan Sellam , Natarajan Kannan , Gopu Arunkumar , Sekaran Ramesh , Ramachandran Manikandan , Bhaskar Vidhyacharan
Published: April 2021

Modern computer sciences and information technologies are anticipated to bring transformative influence in part that mobile communication technologies play in society. To completely take advantage of the services bestowed by modern computer sciences and information technologies, the evidence of the economic and business case is an essential prerequisite. Existing research engulfs several transformative computing methods based on sensors area obtainable as service contain optimize resource management, data processing/storage and security provisioning. With transformative computing being on edge, real-time data must be necessitated for healthcare data analytics. The conventional cloud server cannot address the latency requirements of healthcare IoT sensors. To survive with how to handle these services, we introduce a hybrid method integrating Sugeno Fuzzy Inference (SFI) and Model-free Reinforcement Learning to enhance healthcare IoT and cloud latency. The objective is to lessen high latency between healthcare IoT devices. The proposed Sugeno Fuzzy Model-free Reinforcement Learning Data Computing (SF-MRLDC) method uses a Sugeno Fuzzy Inference model integrated with a Model-free Reinforcement Learning model data computing in a healthcare IoT data analytics environment. The simulation results of the SF-MRLDC method show that it is computationally efficient in terms of latency by ensuring better response time.
The shape of you: do people match a specific geometric figure with identity?
Authors: Manippa Valerio , Tommasi Luca
Published: April 2021

Since more than a century, psychologists have been interested in how visual information can arouse emotion. Several studies have shown that rounded figures evoke positive feelings due to their link with happy/baby-like expressions, compared with sharp angular figures, usually associated with anger and threatening objects having negative valence. However, to date, no-one has investigated the preference to associate a simple geometrical shape to one’s own identity, to a close and positive person like the best friend, or to a potentially dangerous one as a stranger. Through 2 online surveys we asked participants to associate a geometric shape, chosen among a circle, a square and a triangle, to each of three identities, namely “you” (the self), “a friend” or “a stranger”. We hypothesized that the circle would be more associated with the self, the square with the friend and the triangle with the stranger. Moreover, we investigated whether these associations are modulated by 3 personality traits: aggressivity, empathy and social fear. How predicted, we found that participants associate more often the circle with the self, the circle and the square with the best friend, whereas matched the angular shapes (both the triangle and the square) to the stranger. On the other hand, the possibility that personality traits can modulate such associations was not confirmed. The study of how people associate geometrical figures with the self or with other identities giving them an implicit socio-affective connotation, is interesting for all the disciplines interested in the automatic affective processes activated by visual stimuli.
Ancient Great Wall Building Materials Reveal Paleoenvironmental Changes in Northwestern China
Authors: Patalano Robert , Hu Jing , Leng Qing , Liu Weiguo , Wang Huanye , Roberts Patrick , Storozum Michael , Yang Lin , Yang Hong
Published: April 2021

Plant material used in the construction of segments and beacon towers of the ancient Great Wall in northwestern China contain untapped potential for revealing paleoenvironmental conditions. Here, we characterize the molecular preservation and stable carbon and nitrogen isotope compositions of common reeds (Phragmites) collected from Great Wall fascines dated to the Han Dynasty in today’s Gansu and Xinjiang provinces using a combination of chromatographic techniques and isotope analyses. Our data demonstrates that ancient reeds were harvested from local habitats that were more diverse than exist today. The isotope data also capture differential rates of environmental deterioration along the eastern margin of the Tarim Basin, leading to the intense evaporative stress on modern plants. This study demonstrates the wealth of environmental and climate information obtainable from site-specific organic building material of ancient walls, which have received considerably less attention than the iconic brick and stone masonry walls of the later Ming Dynasty.
Intrathoracic Fracture-dislocation of the Humeral Head:A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Yang Ruifeng , wang chong
Published: April 2021

BackgroundIntrathoracic displacement of a humeral head fracture is extremely rare.Only slightly more than 30 cases have been reported. Because few cases have been reported, there is no consensus on how to treat this injury. The etiology, injury mechanism, related lesions and treatment of the injury are diverse.Case presentationA 73-year-old woman presented with multiple fractures of the left ribs, bilateral lung contusions, extensive emphysema of the anterior and posterior chest wall, massive left hemopneumothorax, fracture-dislocation of the proximal humerus and intrathoracic displacement of the humeral head.The patient was sent to the operating room for emergency thoracotomy surgery. The head of the humerus was confirmed to be completely removed from the thoracic cavity during the operation. After discussion with the orthopedic surgeon, the humeral head was discarded considering avascular necrosis, and open reduction and internal fixation were not performed.Three weeks later, the orthopedic surgery team performed reverse shoulder arthroplasty.During follow-up, the patient’s shoulder was free from pain, and its range of movement (ROM) included 110° flexion, 70° abduction, 35° external rotation and 50° internal rotation.Conclusions﻿Intrathoracic displacement of the humeral head due to proximal humeral fracture is a very rare and serious trauma that requires multidisciplinary treatment. Considering the extremely high risk of humeral head necrosis, actively removing broken bone fragments of the humeral head in the early stage is recommended, and we advocate for shoulder arthroplasty for elderly patients. Detailed preoperative evaluations and individualized operation plans should be made to achieve the best effect.
Reversal of SARS-CoV2 Induced Hypoxia by Nebulized Sodium-Ibuprofen in a Compassionate Use Program
Authors: Salva Oscar , Doreski Pablo Alexis , Giler Celia Sara , Quinodoz Dario Conrado , Guzman Lucia Guadalupe , Munoz Sonia Edith , Carrillo Mariana N , Porta Daniela Josefina , Ambasch German , Coscia Esteban , Diaz Jorge Luis Tambini , Bueno German David , Fandi Jorge Oscar , Maldonado Miriam Angelica , Chiappero Leandro Eugenio Peña , Fournier Fernando , Pérez Hernan Alejandro , Quiroga Mauro Andres , Mercado Javier Agustin Sala , Picco Carlos Alberto Martínez , Argañaras Luis Alberto , Rios Nicolas Martinez , Kalayan Galia I. , Beltramo Dante Miguel , Garcia Nestor H
Published: April 2021

BackgroundSodium-ibuprofenate in hypertonic saline (NaIHS) administered directly to the lungs by nebulization and inhalation has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects with the potential to deliver these benefits to hypoxic patients. We describe a compassionate use program that offered this therapy to hospitalized COVID-19 patients.MethodsNaIHS (50 mg ibuprofen, tid) was provided in addition to standard of care to hospitalized Covid-19 patients until oxygen saturation levels of >94% were achieved on ambient air. Patients wore a containment hood to diminish aerosolization. Outcome data from participating patients treated at multiple hospitals in Argentina between April 04, 2020, through October 31, 2020 are summarized.Results383 patients were treated, including 327 not on mechanical ventilation at baseline (MV) and 56 ICU patients receiving MV. For those not on baseline MV (59±0.8 years), 64% were male, most with at least one recognized risk factor for disease severity, and mean NEWS2 score prior to treatment initiation of 7.0±0.1. The average length of stay (ALOS) was 11.5±0.3 days and length of treatment (LOT) 9.0±0.2 days. In patients on baseline MV (60.6±2.2 years), 69.9% were male, baseline mean NEWS2 Score was 8.8±0.4, ALOS 15.5±1.4 days and LOT 10.5±0.7 days. Reversal of deterioration in oxygenation and NEWS2 scores was observed acutely following initiation of therapy. Overall in-hospital mortality was 10.7% among patients not on MV at baseline, and 19.6% among patients receiving MV at baseline. No serious adverse events were considered related to ibuprofen therapy.ConclusionsTreatment of COVID-19 pneumonitis with inhalational nebulized NaIHS was associated with rapid improvement in hypoxia and vital signs, with no serious adverse events attributed to therapy. Nebulized NaIHS is worthy of further study in randomized, placebo-controlled trials.(ClinicalTrials.gov:NCT04382768).
Perspectives on Interpersonal Care Among People Who Obtain Abortions Through Clinical and Accompaniment Models in Argentina
Authors: Bercu Chiara , Fillipa Sofia , Ramirez Ana Maria , Katz Anna , Zurbriggen) Colectiva Feminista La Revuelta (Belén Grosso Ruth , Vázquez Sandra , Baum Sarah E.
Published: April 2021

Introduction:

Little is known about how people who obtain abortion services perceive quality and what aspects of interpersonal care matter to them. This qualitative study aimed to understand preferences among people seeking abortions at a reproductive health clinic and an accompaniment model of self-managed abortion in Argentina.
Study Design:

We conducted 24 in-depth interviews with people who obtained abortion care in Neuquén and Buenos Aires, Argentina. We iteratively coded transcripts using a thematic analysis approach based on interpersonal domains present in current quality of care frameworks.
Results

Participants described high-quality abortion care as feeling acompañamiento and contención from their providers – terms that imply receiving kind, caring, compassionate and emotionally supportive care throughout their abortions. They described four key elements of interpersonal interactions: attentive communication from providers and accompaniers, clear and understandable information provision, non-judgmental support, and individualized options for pain management.
Conclusions

People obtaining abortions in two distinct models of care in Argentina consistently identified receiving compassionate and supportive care throughout an abortion as a key aspect of care. The findings have implications for incorporating client perspectives in the development of care guidelines, training of providers, and monitoring and improving of services. This is particularly important as the government of Argentina prepares to expand legal access to abortion.
Alginate Hydrogels as Injectable Drug Delivery Vehicles for Optic Neuropathy Treatment
Authors: Maxwell Courtney J. , Soltisz Andrew M. , Rich Wade W. , Choi Andrew , Reilly Matthew A. , Swindle-Reilly Katelyn
Published: April 2021

Optic neuropathy is the loss of visual acuity following damage to the optic nerve (ON). Traumatic optic neuropathy (TON) occurs when the optic nerve is injured following blunt or penetrating trauma to either the head or eye. Current management options for TON include the systemic delivery of corticosteroids and surgical decompression of the optic nerve; however, neither option alleviates the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) which are responsible for downstream damage to the ON. Addressing this limitation, an injectable alginate hydrogel system was developed to act as a drug delivery vehicle for methylene blue (MB), a confirmed ROS scavenger and neuroprotective agent. This MB-loaded polymeric scaffold has the ability to be injected as a liquid and rapidly form a gel around the optic nerve following the primary injury, allowing for the prolonged release of MB. The MB-loaded alginate hydrogels demonstrated minimal cytotoxicity to human retinal pigment epithelial (ARPE-19) cells and facilitated gradual MB release over 12 days. Additionally, the MB concentrations displayed a high degree of ROS scavenging after release from the alginate hydrogels, suggesting our approach may be successful in reducing ROS levels following ON injury.
Ecological succession of fungal and bacterial communities in Antarctic mosses affected by a fairy ring disease
Authors: Rosa Luiz Henrique , Pinto Otávio Henrique Bezerra , Coelho Lívia Costa , Convey Peter , Carvalho-Silva Micheline , Rosa Carlos Augusto , Câmara Paulo EAS
Published: April 2021

We evaluated fungal and bacterial diversity in an established moss carpet on King George Island, Antarctica, affected by ‘fairy ring’ disease using metabarcoding. These microbial communities were assessed through the main stages of the disease. A total of 127 fungal and 706 bacterial taxa were assigned. The phylum Ascomycota dominated the fungal assemblages, followed by Basidiomycota, Rozellomycota, Chytridiomycota, Mortierellomycota and Monoblepharomycota. The fungal community displayed high indices of diversity, richness and dominance, which increased from healthy through infected to dead moss samples. Bacterial diversity and richness were greatest in healthy moss and least within the infected fairy ring. Chalara sp. 1, Alpinaria sp., Helotiaceae sp. 2, Chaetothyriales sp. 1, Ascomycota sp. 1, Rozellomycota sp. and Fungi sp. were most abundant within the fairy ring samples. A range of fungal taxa were more abundant in dead rather than healthy or fairy ring moss samples. The dominant prokaryotic phyla were Actinobacteriota, Proteobacteria, Bacteroidota and Cyanobacteria. The taxon Cyanobacteriia sp., whilst consistently dominant, were less abundant in fairy ring samples. Microbacteriaceae sp. and Chloroflexi sp. were the most abundant taxa within the fairy rings. Our data confirmed the presence and abundance of a range of plant pathogenic fungi, supporting the hypothesis that the disease is linked with multiple fungal taxas. Further studies are required to characterise the interactions between plant pathogenic fungi and their host Antarctic mosses. Monitoring the dynamics of mutualist, phytopathogenic and decomposer microorganisms associated with moss carpets may provide bioindicators of moss health.
Simulation of the Thermoforming Process of Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymeric Components: Investigation of the Combined Effect of the Crosshead Speed and Material Temperature
Authors: Stamopoulos Antonios , Ilio Antoniomaria Di , Genova Luca Glauco Di
Published: April 2021

Thermoplastic based composite materials are increasingly gaining the interest of many engineering sectors, among them the automotive. Their unique features, resulted by the thermoplastic matrix characteristics, such as their recyclability and their formability have given new perspectives in their use. Among the most promising fabrication methods of thermoplastic composite components is the thermoforming process, the press forming of a heated semi-finalized composite plate. This method, although requires a quite simple working station and can be implemented in mass production, demonstrates a series of disadvantages on the quality of the product. Among them, the variation of the thickness, formation of wrinkles and overall undesired deformations are considered as defects that decrease the quality not only from the esthetical but also from the structural point of view. In the present work, a numerical analysis of the thermoforming process is conducted when applied to a box-shaped geometry. As an input for the material behavior during the process, mechanical tests are conducted at elevated temperatures. The flat and curved critical zones of the component are identified and an analysis of the effect of the temperature and the crosshead speed of the molds on the thickness distribution are examined as well as the overall residual stress field. The results indicate a strong dependency of the quality of the product by these parameters of the process.
Adult Patients’ Experience of Coercion in Intensive Care: A Scoping Review
Authors: Jöbges Susanne , Mouton-Dorey Corine , Ricou Bara , Biller-Andorno Nikola
Published: April 2021

Background The use of coercion, which can be understood in a clinical context as imposing a measure against a patient’s opposition or declared will, can occur in various forms in intensive care units (ICU). One prime example of a coercive measure in the ICU is the use of restraints, which are applied for patients` own safety and for the protection of caregivers. A scoping review was conducted to explore the empirical data available on the experiences of ICU patients with coercive measures.Main text For this scoping review, clinical databases (PubMED, EMBASE, PsychINFO, Web of Science Core Collection, CINAHL, Scopus and Cochrane Library) were searched for qualitative studies. Using the CASP criteria for qualitative studies, the review focused on empirical research that captured how ICU patients themselves experienced restraints or other forms of coercion and excluded research related to staff experiences. A total of nine studies could be retrieved that fulfilled the inclusion criteria.The review describes common themes emerging from the scarce studies on patient experiences, including communication issues, delirium, memory, and emotional reactions. In spite of their serious clinical condition and fluctuating states of consciousness, a part of the patients did have memories of their ICU stay. Statements from patients revealed feelings of compromised autonomy and dignity that came with a loss of control. Physical restraints were only one concrete manifestation of coercion as perceived by patients in the ICU setting. Conclusion To date, there are few qualitative studies focusing on patient experiences of coercive measures in the ICU. In addition to the experience of restricted physical movement, the perception of loss of control, loss of dignity and loss of autonomy suggests that restraining measures are just one element in a setting that may be perceived as coercive. Health professionals may underestimate how deeply patients are affected by the perception of coercion. Good communication that clearly explains unavoidable measures to patients can reduce the negative impacts of coercive measures. More research on patient experiences is needed in order to reach a more comprehensive understanding of how patients perceive their ICU stay and to identify opportunities for further improvement of intensive care.