bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Smoking on Clinical Results Following the Rotator Cuff and Biceps Tendon Complex Arthroscopic Surgery
Authors: Zabrzyński Jan , Huri Gazi , Gagat Maciej , Łapaj Łukasz , Yataganbaba Alper , Szwedowski Dawid , Askin Mehmet , Paczesny Łukasz
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this study was to investigate the association of smoking and functional outcomes after arthroscopic treatment of complex shoulder injuries: rotator cuff tears (RCTs) with biceps tendon (LHBT) tears. This retrospective case-control study has been conducted on a cohort of patients who underwent shoulder arthroscopy between 2015 and 2017 due to complex injury treatment. The outcomes were assessed using the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Score (ASES), the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) Shoulder Score, need for non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) consumption and the visual analog scale (VAS). Complications and changes in smoking status were also noted. A cohort of 59 patients underwent shoulder arthroscopy, due to complex LHBT pathology and RCTs, and were enrolled in the final follow-up examination; with mean duration of 26.03 months. According to smoking status, 27 of patients were classified as smokers, and the remaining 32 were non-smokers. In the examined cohort, 36 patients underwent the LHBT tenotomy and 23 tenodesis. We observed a relationship between smoking status and distribution of various RCTs (p < 0.0001). The mean postoperative ASES and UCLA scores were 80.81 and 30.18 in the smoker’s group and 84.06 and 30.93 in the non-smoker’s group, respectively. There were no statistically significant differences in pre/postoperative ASES and postoperative UCLA scores between smokers and non-smokers (p > 0.05). The VAS was significantly lower in the non-smokers’ group (p = 0.0021). Multi-tendon injuries of the shoulder are a serious challenge for surgeons, and to obtain an excellent functional outcome, we need to limit the negative risk factors, including smoking. Furthermore, there is a significant association between smoking and the occurrence of massive rotator cuff tears, and the pain level measured by the VAS. Simultaneous surgical treatment of RC and LHBT lesions in the smoker population allowed us to obtain the functional outcomes approximated to non-smokers in the long-term follow-up. Of course, we cannot assert that smoking is the real cause of all complications, however, we may assume that this is a very important, negative factor in shoulder arthroscopy.
The Effect of a Comprehensive, Interdisciplinary Medication Review on Quality of Life and Medication Use in Community Dwelling Older People with Polypharmacy
Authors: Bosch-Lenders Donna , Jansen Jesse , Stoffers Henri E. J. H. (Jelle) , Winkens Bjorn , Aretz Karin , Twellaar Mascha , Schols Jos M. G. A. , van der Kuy Paul-Hugo M. , Knottnerus J. André , van den Akker Marjan
Published: February 2021

Background: We conducted a comprehensive medication review at the patients’ home, using data from electronic patient records, and with input from relevant specialists, general practitioners and pharmacists formulated and implemented recommendations to optimize medication use in patients aged 60+ years with polypharmacy. We evaluated the effect of this medication review on quality of life (QoL) and medication use. Methods: Cluster randomized controlled trial (stepped wedge), randomly assigning general practices to one of three consecutive steps. Patients received usual care until the intervention was implemented. Primary outcome was QoL (SF-36 and EQ-5D); secondary outcomes were medication changes, medication adherence and (instrumental) activities of daily living (ADL, iADL) which were measured at baseline, and around 6- and 12-months post intervention. Results: Twenty-four general practices included 360 women and 410 men with an average age of 75 years (SD 7.5). A positive effect on SF-36 mental health (estimated mean was stable in the intervention, but decreased in the control condition with −6.1, p = 0.009,) was found with a reduced number of medications at follow-up compared to the control condition. No significant effects were found on other QoL subscales, ADL, iADL or medication adherence. Conclusion: The medication review prevented decrease of mental health (SF36), with no significant effects on other outcome measures, apart from a reduction in the number of prescribed medications.
A New Rectus and Sartorius Sparing Approach for Periacetabular Osteotomy in Patients with Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip
Authors: Löchel Jannis , Janz Viktor , Perka Carsten , Hofer Andre , Zimmerer Alexander , Wassilew Georgi I.
Published: February 2021

Background: periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) is known as the gold standard surgical treatment in young adults with symptomatic hip dysplasia. With the aim of reducing soft tissue trauma, we developed a new rectus and sartorius sparing (RASS) approach. We hypothesized that this new PAO technique was equal regarding acetabular reorientation, complication rate, and short-term clinical outcome parameters, compared to our conventional, rectus sparing (RS) approach. Patients and Methods: we retrospectively assessed all PAO procedures performed by a single surgeon between 2016 and 2019 (n = 239 hips in 217 patients). The cases in which the new RASS technique were used (n = 48) were compared to the RS cases for acetabular orientation parameters, surgical time, perioperative reduction of hemoglobin level, and length of hospital stay (LOHS). Inclusion criteria were a lateral center-edge angle (LCEA) <25° and osteoarthritis Tönnis grade ≤1. Patients with acetabular retroversion or additional femoral osteotomy were excluded. Results: the mean patient age at the time of surgery was 29 years (14 to 50, SD ± 8.5). Females accounted for 79.5% in this series. The mean preoperative LCEA were 16° (7 to 24°, SD ± 4.4) and 15° (0 to 23°, SD ± 6) in the RASS and the RS group, respectively (p = 0.96). The mean preoperative acetabular index (AI) angles were 14° (2 to 25°, SD ± 4) and 14° (7 to 29°, SD ± 4.3), respectively (p = 0.67). The mean postoperative LCEA were significantly improved to 31° (25 to 37°, SD ± 3.5, p < 0.001) and 30.2° (20 to 38°, SD ± 4, p < 0.001), respectively. The mean postoperative AI angles improved to 2.8° (−3 to 13°, SD ± 3.3, p < 0.001) and 3° (−2 to 15°, SD ± 3.3, p < 0.001), respectively. There were no significant differences between the RASS and the RS group for surgical time, perioperative reduction in hemoglobin level, and LOHS. No blood transfusions were necessary perioperatively in either group. No major perioperative complication occurred in either group. We observed one surgical site infection (SSI) requiring superficial debridement in the RS group. Conclusion: the RASS approach for PAO showed to be a safe procedure with equivalent acetabular reorientation and equivalent clinical outcome parameters compared to the RS approach. Additionally, patients have fewer postoperative restrictions in mobilization with the RASS approach.
Assessment of Lymph Node Involvement with PET-CT in Advanced Epithelial Ovarian Cancer. A FRANCOGYN Group Study
Authors: Tardieu Antoine , Ouldamer Lobna , Margueritte François , Rossard Lauranne , Lacorre Aymeline , Bourdel Nicolas , Lades Guillaume , Sallée Camille , Monteil Jacques , Gauthier Tristan
Published: February 2021

The objective of our study is to evaluate the diagnostic performance of positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET-CT) for the assessment of lymph node involvement in advanced epithelial ovarian, fallopian tubal or peritoneal cancer (EOC). This was a retrospective, bicentric study. We included all patients over 18 years of age with a histological diagnosis of advanced EOC who had undergone PET-CT at the time of diagnosis or prior to cytoreduction surgery with pelvic or para-aortic lymphadenectomy. We included 145 patients with primary advanced EOC. The performance of PET-CT was calculated from the data of 63 patients. The sensitivity of PET-CT for preoperative lymph node evaluation was 26.7%, specificity was 90.9%, PPV was 72.7%, and NPV was 57.7%. The accuracy rate was 60.3%, and the false-negative rate was 34.9%. In the case of primary cytoreduction (n = 16), the sensitivity of PET-CT was 50%, specificity was 87.5%, PPV was 80%, and NPV was 63.6%. The accuracy rate was 68.8%, and the false negative rate was 25%. After neoadjuvant chemotherapy (n = 47), the sensitivity of PET-CT was 18.2%, specificity was 92%, PPV was 66.7%, and NPV was 56.1%. The accuracy rate was 57.5%, and the false negative rate was 38.3%. Due to its high specificity, the performance of a preoperative PET-CT scan could contribute to the de-escalation and reduction of lymphadenectomy in the surgical management of advanced EOC in a significant number of patients free of lymph node metastases.
Implant Placement Following Crestal Sinus Lift with Sequential Drills and Osteotomes: Five Years after Final Loading Results from a Retrospective Study
Authors: Lumbau Aurea Immacolata , Meloni Silvio Mario , Tallarico Marco , Melis Luca , Spano Giovanni , Baldoni Edoardo , Koshovari Alba , Pisano Milena
Published: February 2021

The aim of this retrospective study was to clinically evaluate the five-year outcomes of implants placed following a combined approach to the sinus, consisting of sequential drills and osteotomes. Medical records of patients with implants placed in combination with crestal sinus lift using sequential drills and osteotomes, with a residual alveolar bone crest between 4 to 8 mm, and a follow-up of at least five years after final loading, were evaluated. Outcomes were implant and prosthetic survival and success rates, any complication, and marginal bone loss. Data from 96 patients (53 women and 43 men; mean age 54.7 years; range 23–79 years) were collected. A total of 105 single implants were analyzed. After five years of function, two implants were lost and two prostheses failed. No major biological or prosthetic complications occurred. At the five-year examination, the marginal bone loss was 1.24 ± 0.28 mm. Within the limitations of this retrospective study it can be concluded that implants placed following a combined approach to the sinus consisting of sequential drills and osteotomes seem to be a viable option for the treatment of posterior atrophic edentulous maxilla.
Personal Heart Health Monitoring Based on 1D Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Nannavecchia Antonella , Girardi Francesco , Fina Pio Raffaele , Scalera Michele , Dimauro Giovanni
Published: February 2021

The automated detection of suspicious anomalies in electrocardiogram (ECG) recordings allows frequent personal heart health monitoring and can drastically reduce the number of ECGs that need to be manually examined by the cardiologists, excluding those classified as normal, facilitating healthcare decision-making and reducing a considerable amount of time and money. In this paper, we present a system able to automatically detect the suspect of cardiac pathologies in ECG signals from personal monitoring devices, with the aim to alert the patient to send the ECG to the medical specialist for a correct diagnosis and a proper therapy. The main contributes of this work are: (a) the implementation of a binary classifier based on a 1D-CNN architecture for detecting the suspect of anomalies in ECGs, regardless of the kind of cardiac pathology; (b) the analysis was carried out on 21 classes of different cardiac pathologies classified as anomalous; and (c) the possibility to classify anomalies even in ECG segments containing, at the same time, more than one class of cardiac pathologies. Moreover, 1D-CNN based architectures can allow an implementation of the system on cheap smart devices with low computational complexity. The system was tested on the ECG signals from the MIT-BIH ECG Arrhythmia Database for the MLII derivation. Two different experiments were carried out, showing remarkable performance compared to other similar systems. The best result showed high accuracy and recall, computed in terms of ECG segments and even higher accuracy and recall in terms of patients alerted, therefore considering the detection of anomalies with respect to entire ECG recordings.
Finite Element Analysis of the Effect of Currents on the Dynamics of a Moored Flexible Cylindrical Net Cage
Authors: Liu Zhongchi , Mohapatra Sarat Chandra , Guedes Soares C.
Published: February 2021

A numerical model associated with wave–current interactions with a moored flexible cylindrical cage was developed based on the finite element method. An analytical model was formulated under the linearised wave theory and small structural response, and a semi-analytical solution was obtained using the Fourier Bessel series solution and least squares approximation method, along with a matching technique. The numerical results from the finite element analysis of the horizontal displacements for different design parameters under a uniform current were compared with the analytical model solutions. It was seen that they had a good level of agreement with their results. The effects of different current speeds and time on the cage shapes were analysed from the finite element results. Further, the mooring forces on the flexible cage for different values of the cage height and cage radius were also presented. The comparison of the results indicated that the numerical model results could be used with confidence in the design of a flexible cylindrical net cage for applications to offshore aquacultures.
Formation Control and Obstacle Avoidance Algorithm of a Multi-USV System Based on Virtual Structure and Artificial Potential Field
Authors: Yan Xun , Jiang Dapeng , Miao Runlong , Li Yulong
Published: February 2021

This paper proposes a formation generation algorithm and formation obstacle avoidance strategy for multiple unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). The proposed formation generation algorithm implements an approach combining a virtual structure and artificial potential field (VSAPF), which provides a high accuracy of formation shape keeping and flexibility of formation shape change. To solve the obstacle avoidance problem of the multi-USV system, an improved dynamic window approach is applied to the formation reference point, which considers the movement ability of the USV. By applying this method, the USV formation can avoid obstacles while maintaining its shape. The combination of the virtual structure and artificial potential field has the advantage of less calculations, so that it can ensure the real-time performance of the algorithm and convenience for deployment on an actual USV. Various simulation results for a group of USVs are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms.
Framework for Climate Change Adaptation of Agriculture and Forestry in Mediterranean Climate Regions
Authors: Vizinho André , Avelar David , Branquinho Cristina , Capela Lourenço Tiago , Carvalho Silvia , Nunes Alice , Sucena-Paiva Leonor , Oliveira Hugo , Fonseca Ana Lúcia , Duarte Santos Filipe , Roxo Maria José , Penha-Lopes Gil
Published: February 2021

Planning the adaptation of agriculture and forestry landscapes to climate change remains challenging due to the need for integrating substantial amounts of information. This information ranges from climate scenarios, geographical site information, socio-economic data and several possible adaptation measures. Thus, there is an urgent need to have a framework that is capable of organizing adaptation strategies and measures in the agriculture and forestry sectors in Mediterranean climatic regions. Additionally, this framework should provide a cause effect relation with climate vulnerability to adequately support the development of adaptation planning at municipal and local (farm) level. In this context, we propose to test and evaluate a framework for climate adaptation of the agriculture and forestry sectors, based on the local causal-effect relation between adaptation strategies and measures and the level of vulnerability reduction achieved for Mediterranean areas. The framework was developed based on the combination of the DPSIR (Driving forces, Pressures, State, Impacts, Responses) and Vulnerability frameworks and reviewed 162 practical adaptation measures, further organized into strategies, complemented by a set of efficacy indicators. The framework was tested with 70 stakeholders in six stakeholder workshops for the planning of two farms and one municipal climate adaptation study, that are now in actual implementation and monitoring. The framework is composed by a set of eight adaptation strategies in which adaptation measures are clustered and assessed using efficacy indicators. In the evaluation of the adaptation framework, 96% of stakeholders considered its content as good or very good and 89% considered the final outcomes as good or very good. Finally, the framework was also used to assess and compare the adaptation strategies and measures presented in the climate adaptation plans of the three case studies. On average, 52.2% of the adaptation measures selected by the three case studies are dedicated to Ecosystem Resilience, 30.9% to Adaptive Capacity, 9.1% to Microclimates, 7.4% to Protection, and 0.3% to Mitigation strategies. This framework was considered effective in supporting adaptation planning at farm and municipal levels and useful to assess and compare adaptation plans in the frame of vulnerability reduction. Future studies can further contribute to support adaptation planning in these sectors by using, developing and streamlining this framework to additional and different socio-ecological contexts.
GIS-Based Landslide Susceptibility Mapping for Land Use Planning and Risk Assessment
Authors: Roccati Anna , Paliaga Guido , Luino Fabio , Faccini Francesco , Turconi Laura
Published: February 2021

Landslide susceptibility mapping is essential for a suitable land use managing and risk assessment. In this work a GIS-based approach has been proposed to map landslide susceptibility in the Portofino promontory, a Mediterranean area that is periodically hit by intense rain events that induce often shallow landslides. Based on over 110 years landslides inventory and experts’ judgements, a semi-quantitative analytical hierarchy process (AHP) method has been applied to assess the role of nine landslide conditioning factors, which include both natural and anthropogenic elements. A separated subset of landslide data has been used to validate the map. Our findings reveal that areas where possible future landslides may occur are larger than those identified in the actual official map adopted in land use and risk management. The way the new map has been compiled seems more oriented towards the possible future landslide scenario, rather than weighting with higher importance the existing landslides as in the current model. The paper provides a useful decision support tool to implement risk mitigation strategies and to better apply land use planning. Allowing to modify factors in order to local features, the proposed methodology may be adopted in different conditions or geographical context featured by rainfall induced landslide risk.
Migration of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) from PEX-a Pipes into the Drinking Water during the First Five Years of Use
Authors: Pelto-Huikko Aino , Ahonen Merja , Ruismäki Mia , Kaunisto Tuija , Latva Martti
Published: February 2021

A brand-new office building in Rauma, Finland, was used to study the first five years of PEX-a drinking water pipes in normal use. Both pipe material and water samples from hot and cold-water pipelines were analyzed. Migration of volatile organic compounds (VOC) from the PEX-a pipes into the drinking water was observed to decrease rapidly during the first months. Deterioration of the PEX-a material was observed to take place due to the wearing down of organic antioxidants added into the PEX-a material during the manufacturing of the pipes. Tert-butyl alcohol (TBA) concentrations were high during the first months after commissioning of use. The stagnation time of the drinking water in contact with the PEX-a material before the actual water sample was taken had a major impact on analyzed migration of organic compounds. Hence, the amount of organic compounds able to migrate from materials into the drinking water will increase when the stagnation time increases. In this study, the water samples were taken after overnight stagnation, whereas in normal use it is advisable to run water properly before drinking it. Instructions will be needed for the average user to avoid harmful health effects.
Optical, Structural, and Dielectric Properties of Composites Based on Thermoplastic Polymers of the Polyolefin and Polyurethane Type and BaTiO3 Nanoparticles
Authors: Baibarac M. , Nila A. , Smaranda I. , Stroe M. , Stingescu L. , Cristea M. , Cercel R. C. , Lorinczi A. , Ganea P. , Mercioniu I. , Ciobanu R. , Schreiner C. , Garcia R. G. , Bartha C.
Published: February 2021

In this work, new films containing composite materials based on blends of thermoplastic polymers of the polyurethane (TPU) and polyolefin (TPO) type, in the absence and presence of BaTiO3 nanoparticles (NPs) with the size smaller 100 nm, were prepared. The vibrational properties of the free films depending on the weight ratio of the two thermoplastic polymers were studied. Our results demonstrate that these films are optically active, with strong, broad, and adjustable photoluminescence by varying the amount of TPU. The crystalline structure of BaTiO3 and the influence of thermoplastic polymers on the crystallization process of these inorganic NPs were determined by X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies. The vibrational changes induced in the thermoplastic polymer’s matrix of the BaTiO3 NPs were showcased by Raman scattering and FTIR spectroscopy. The incorporation of BaTiO3 NPs in the matrix of thermoplastic elastomers revealed the shift dependence of the photoluminescence (PL) band depending on the BaTiO3 NP concentration, which was capable of covering a wide visible spectral range. The dependencies of the dielectric relaxation phenomena with the weight of BaTiO3 NPs in thermoplastic polymers blends were also demonstrated.
Structural and Photoluminescence Investigations of Tb3+/Eu3+ Co-Doped Silicate Sol-Gel Glass-Ceramics Containing CaF2 Nanocrystals
Authors: Pawlik Natalia , Szpikowska-Sroka Barbara , Goryczka Tomasz , Pisarska Joanna , Pisarski Wojciech A.
Published: February 2021

In this work, the series of Tb3+/Eu3+ co-doped xerogels and derivative glass-ceramics containing CaF2 nanocrystals were prepared and characterized. The in situ formation of fluoride crystals was verified by an X-ray diffraction technique (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The studies of the Tb3+/Eu3+ energy transfer (ET) process were performed based on excitation and emission spectra along with luminescence decay analysis. According to emission spectra recorded under near-ultraviolet (NUV) excitation (351 nm, 7F6 → 5L9 transition of Tb3+), the mutual coexistence of the 5D4 → 7FJ (J = 6–3) (Tb3+) and the 5D0 → 7FJ (J = 0–4) (Eu3+) luminescence bands was clearly observed. The co-doping also resulted in gradual shortening of a lifetime from the 5D4 state of Tb3+ ions, and the ET efficiencies were varied from ηET = 11.9% (Tb3+:Eu3+ = 1:0.5) to ηET = 22.9% (Tb3+:Eu3+ = 1:2) for xerogels, and from ηET = 25.7% (Tb3+:Eu3+ = 1:0.5) up to ηET = 67.4% (Tb3+:Eu3+ = 1:2) for glass-ceramics. Performed decay analysis from the 5D0 (Eu3+) and the 5D4 (Tb3+) state revealed a correlation with the change in Tb3+–Eu3+ and Eu3+–Eu3+ interionic distances resulting from both the variable Tb3+:Eu3+ molar ratio and their partial segregation in CaF2 nanophase.
Development and Research of Crosshead-Free Piston Hybrid Power Machine
Authors: Shcherba Viktor , Shalay Viktor , Nosov Evgeniy , Pavlyuchenko Evgeniy , Tegzhanov Ablai-Khan
Published: February 2021

This article considers the development and research of a new design of crosshead-free piston hybrid power machine. After verification of a system of simplifying assumptions based on the fundamental laws of energy, mass, and motion conservation, as well as using the equation of state, mathematical models of the work processes of the compressor section, pump section, and liquid flow in a groove seal have been developed. In accordance with the patent for the invention, a prototype of a crosshead-free piston hybrid power machine (PHPM) was developed; it was equipped with the necessary measuring equipment and a stand for studying the prototype. Using the developed mathematical model, the physical picture of the ongoing work processes in the compressor and pump sections is considered, taking into account their interaction through a groove seal. Using the developed plan, a set of experimental studies was carried out with the main operational parameters of the crosshead-free PHPM: operating processes, temperature of the cylinder–piston group and integral parameters (supply coefficient of the compressor section, volumetric efficiency of the pump section, etc.). As a result of numerical and experimental studies, it was determined that this PHPM design has better cooling of the compressor section (decrease in temperature of the valve plate is from 10 to 15 K; decrease in temperature of intake air is from 6 to 8 K, as well as there is increase in compressor and pump section efficiency up to 5%).
Multi-Objective Two-Stage Stochastic Programming Model for a Proposed Casualty Transportation System in Large-Scale Disasters: A Case Study
Authors: Caglayan Nadide , Satoglu Sule Itir
Published: February 2021

Disaster management is a process that includes mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery stages. Operational strategies covering all stages must be developed in order to alleviate the negative effects of the disasters. In this study, we aimed at minimizing the number of casualties that could not be transported to the hospitals after the disaster, the number of additional ambulances required in the response stage, and the total transportation time. Besides, we assumed that a data-driven decision support tool is employed to track casualties and up-to-date hospital capacities, so as to direct the ambulances to the available hospitals. For this purpose, a multi-objective two-stage stochastic programming model was developed. The model was applied to a district in Istanbul city of Turkey, for a major earthquake. Accordingly, the model was developed with a holistic perspective with multiple objectives, periods and locations. The developed multi-objective stochastic programming model was solved using an improved version of the augmented ε-constraint (AUGMECON2) method. Hence, the Pareto optimal solutions set has been obtained and compared with the best solution achieved according to the objective of total transportation time, to see the effect of the ambulance direction decisions based on hospital capacity availability. All of the decisions examined in these comparisons were evaluated in terms of effectiveness and equity. Finally, managerial implication strategies were presented to contribute decision-makers according to the results obtained. Results showed that without implementing a data-driven decision support tool, equity in casualty transportation cannot be achieved among the demand points.
A Neural Network-Based Approach for Approximating Arbitrary Roots of Polynomials
Authors: Freitas Diogo , Guerreiro Lopes Luiz , Morgado-Dias Fernando
Published: February 2021

Finding arbitrary roots of polynomials is a fundamental problem in various areas of science and engineering. A myriad of methods was suggested to address this problem, such as the sequential Newton’s method and the Durand–Kerner (D–K) simultaneous iterative method. The sequential iterative methods, on the one hand, need to use a deflation procedure in order to compute approximations to all the roots of a given polynomial, which can produce inaccurate results due to the accumulation of rounding errors. On the other hand, the simultaneous iterative methods require good initial guesses to converge. However, Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) are widely known by their capacity to find complex mappings between the dependent and independent variables. In view of this, this paper aims to determine, based on comparative results, whether ANNs can be used to compute approximations to the real and complex roots of a given polynomial, as an alternative to simultaneous iterative algorithms like the D–K method. Although the results are very encouraging and demonstrate the viability and potentiality of the suggested approach, the ANNs were not able to surpass the accuracy of the D–K method. The results indicated, however, that the use of the approximations computed by the ANNs as the initial guesses for the D–K method can be beneficial to the accuracy of this method.
Volatility Forecasting for High-Frequency Financial Data Based on Web Search Index and Deep Learning Model
Authors: Lei Bolin , Zhang Boyu , Song Yuping
Published: February 2021

The existing index system for volatility forecasting only focuses on asset return series or historical volatility, and the prediction model cannot effectively describe the highly complex and nonlinear characteristics of the stock market. In this study, we construct an investor attention factor through a Baidu search index of antecedent keywords, and then combine other trading information such as the trading volume, trend indicator, quote change rate, etc., as input indicators, and finally employ the deep learning model via temporal convolutional networks (TCN) to forecast the volatility under high-frequency financial data. We found that the prediction accuracy of the TCN model with investor attention is better than those of the TCN model without investor attention, the traditional econometric model as the generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedasticity (GARCH), the heterogeneous autoregressive model of realized volatility (HAR-RV), autoregressive fractionally integrated moving average (ARFIMA) models, and the long short-term memory (LSTM) model with investor attention. Compared with the traditional econometric models, the multi-step prediction results for the TCN model remain robust. Our findings provide a more accurate and robust method for volatility forecasting for big data and enrich the index system of volatility forecasting.
Differential Evolution under Fixed Point Arithmetic and FP16 Numbers
Authors: de la Fraga Luis Gerardo
Published: February 2021

In this work, the differential evolution algorithm behavior under a fixed point arithmetic is analyzed also using half-precision floating point (FP) numbers of 16 bits, and these last numbers are known as FP16. In this paper, it is considered that it is important to analyze differential evolution (DE) in these circumstances with the goal of reducing its consumption power, storage size of the variables, and improve its speed behavior. All these aspects become important if one needs to design a dedicated hardware, as an embedded DE within a circuit chip, that performs optimization. With these conditions DE is tested using three common multimodal benchmark functions: Rosenbrock, Rastrigin, and Ackley, in 10 dimensions. Results are obtained in software by simulating all numbers using C programming language.
Marine Antimicrobial Peptide TP4 Exerts Anticancer Effects on Human Synovial Sarcoma Cells via Calcium Overload, Reactive Oxygen Species Production and Mitochondrial Hyperpolarization
Authors: Su Bor-Chyuan , Hung Giun-Yi , Tu Yun-Chieh , Yeh Wei-Chen , Lin Meng-Chieh , Chen Jyh-Yih
Published: February 2021

Synovial sarcoma is a rare but aggressive soft-tissue sarcoma associated with translocation t(X;18). Metastasis occurs in approximately 50% of all patients, and curative outcomes are difficult to achieve in this group. Since the efficacies of current therapeutic approaches for metastatic synovial sarcoma remain limited, new therapeutic agents are urgently needed. Tilapia piscidin 4 (TP4), a marine antimicrobial peptide, is known to exhibit multiple biological functions, including anti-bacterial, wound-healing, immunomodulatory, and anticancer activities. In the present study, we assessed the anticancer activity of TP4 in human synovial sarcoma cells and determined the underlying mechanisms. We first demonstrated that TP4 can induce necrotic cell death in human synovial sarcoma AsKa-SS and SW982 cells lines. In addition, we saw that TP4 initiates reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and downregulates antioxidant proteins, such as uncoupling protein-2, superoxide dismutase (SOD)-1, and SOD-2. Moreover, TP4-induced mitochondrial hyperpolarization is followed by elevation of mitochondrial ROS. Calcium overload is also triggered by TP4, and cell death can be attenuated by a necrosis inhibitor, ROS scavenger or calcium chelator. In our experiments, TP4 displayed strong anticancer activity in human synovial sarcoma cells by disrupting oxidative status, promoting mitochondrial hyperpolarization and causing calcium overload.
Advances in Design by Metallic Materials: Synthesis, Characterization, Simulation and Applications
Authors: Fragassa Cristiano
Published: February 2021

Metals have exerted a significant influence throughout the history of mankind, so much so that the different periods of development have often been marked with the name of some material: bronze age and iron age [...]
The Increased Expression of Regulator of G-Protein Signaling 2 (RGS2) Inhibits Insulin-Induced Akt Phosphorylation and Is Associated with Uncontrolled Glycemia in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Vazquez-Jimenez J. Gustavo , Corpus-Navarro M. Stephanie , Rodriguez-Chavez J. Miguel , Jaramillo-Ramirez Hiram J. , Hernandez-Aranda Judith , Galindo-Hernandez Octavio , Machado-Contreras J. Rene , Trejo-Trejo Marina , Guerrero-Hernandez Agustin , Olivares-Reyes J. Alberto
Published: February 2021

Experimental evidence in mice models has demonstrated that a high regulator of G-protein signaling 2 (RSG2) protein levels precede an insulin resistance state. In the same context, a diet rich in saturated fatty acids induces an increase in RGS2 protein expression, which has been associated with decreased basal metabolism in mice; however, the above has not yet been analyzed in humans. For this reason, in the present study, we examined the association between RGS2 expression and insulin resistance state. The incubation with palmitic acid (PA), which inhibits insulin-mediated Akt Ser473 phosphorylation, resulted in the increased RGS2 expression in human umbilical vein endothelial-CS (HUVEC-CS) cells. The RGS2 overexpression without PA was enough to inhibit insulin-mediated Akt Ser473 phosphorylation in HUVEC-CS cells. Remarkably, the platelet RGS2 expression levels were higher in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients than in healthy donors. Moreover, an unbiased principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that RGS2 expression level positively correlated with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and negatively with age and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) in T2DM patients. Furthermore, PCA showed that healthy subjects segregated from T2DM patients by having lower levels of HbA1c and RGS2. These results demonstrate that RGS2 overexpression leads to decreased insulin signaling in a human endothelial cell line and is associated with poorly controlled diabetes.
Reconstruction of Hydrothermal Processes in the Cyprus Type Fe-Cu-Zn Deposits of the Italian Northern Apennines: Results of Combined Fluid Inclusion Microthermometry, SEM-CL Imaging and Trace Element Analyses by LA-ICP-MS
Authors: B. Kiss Gabriella , Bendő Zsolt , Garuti Giorgio , Zaccarini Federica , Király Edit , Molnár Ferenc
Published: February 2021

Quartz from the stockwork zone of various Cyprus type volcanogenic massive sulfide deposits (Boccassuolo, Reppia, Campegli, Bargone and Vigonzano) from the unmetamorphosed, Jurassic Northern Apennine ophiolites was studied in order to provide details on the submarine hydrothermal conditions and the characteristics for ore formation. Our detailed SEM-CL investigation of quartz contributed to a robust characterization and interpretation of primary fluid inclusions and microthermometry data. SEM-CL imaging was also useful for reconstructing the consecutive steps of quartz precipitation. The determination of trace element contents according to growth zoning in quartz by LA-ICP-MS constrained the compositional variations of parent fluids during the hydrothermal activity. A continuously cooling fluid regime characterized each studied volcanogenic massive sulfide (VMS) occurrence although the minimum formation temperatures were different (Bargone: 110–270 °C; Boccassuolo: 60–360 °C; Campegli: 110–225 °C; Reppia: 50–205 °C; Vigonzano: 260–330 °C), the range of temperature most probably depends on the original position of sampling in relation to the centers of the hydrothermal systems. Compositional changes are reflected by variations in the methane content (0.13–0.33 mol/kg) and salinity (2.6–9.3 NaCl equiv. wt. %) in the fluid inclusions of quartz and calcite as well as a changeable Al content (11–1526 ppm) in quartz. This study demonstrates that the combined use of SEM-CL imaging and LA-ICP-MS analyses, coupled with fluid inclusion microthermometry, can constrain the different fluid conditions of ore forming and the barren stages of evolving submarine hydrothermal systems.
Effect of Ceria Addition to Na2O-ZrO2 Catalytic Mixtures on Lignin Waste Ex-Situ Pyrolysis
Authors: Yeardley Adam , Bagnato Giuseppe , Sanna Aimaro
Published: February 2021

Waste lignin is a potential source of renewable fuels and other chemical precursors under catalytic pyrolysis. For this purpose, four mixed metal oxide catalytic mixtures (Cat) derived from Na2CO3, CeO2 and ZrO2 were synthesised in varying compositions and utilised in a fixed bed reactor for catalytic vapour upgrading of Etek lignin pyrolysis products at 600 °C. The catalytic mixtures were analysed and characterised using XRD analysis, whilst pyrolysis products were analysed for distribution of products using FTIR, GC-MS and EA. Substantial phenolic content (20 wt%) was obtained when using equimolar catalytic mixture A (Cat_A), however the majority of these phenols were guaiacol derivatives, suggesting the catalytic mixture employed did not favour deep demethoxylation. Despite this, addition of 40–50% ceria to NaZrO2 resulted in a remarkable reduction of coke to 4 wt%, compared to ~9 wt% of NaZrO2. CeO2 content higher than 50% favoured the increase in conversion of the holo-cellulose fraction, enriching the bio-oil in aldehydes, ketones and cyclopentanones. Of the catalytic mixtures studied, equimolar metal oxides content (Cat_A) appears to showcase the optimal characteristics for phenolics production and coking reduction.
Tannin-Mordant Coloration with Matcha (camelia sinensis) and Iron(II)-Lactate on Human Hair Tresses
Authors: Sargsyan Lusine , Hippe Thomas , Manneck Hartmut , Vill Volkmar
Published: February 2021

The aim of this work was to optimize our natural hair dyeing system which we described in our previous work and to compare with other dyeing systems. Therefore, we investigated concentration limits of matcha and mordant and compared this new dyeing method with commercial permanent systems on the market. Completely unpigmented hair tresses were dyed with matcha powder (camelia sinensis) and iron(II)-lactate. To investigate the wash fastness and concentration limits, the differently dyed hair tresses were spectrophotometrically measured. The comparison of the damage potential for which cysteic acid is an indicator was measured by NIR. The concentration of matcha and mordant are responsible for the intensity of the color results. The higher the matcha or the mordant concentration, the darker the color results of the dyed hair tresses. Hair damage of matcha mordant dyeing is comparable with results of commercial permanent hair coloration systems. Moreover, the results of wash fastness of matcha mordant dyed hair tresses is comparable and even better by tendency to permanent colored hair tresses.
Recent Developments in Small-Molecule Ligands of Medicinal Relevance for Harnessing the Anticancer Potential of G-Quadruplexes
Authors: Savva Loukiani , Georgiades Savvas N.
Published: February 2021

G-quadruplexes, a family of tetraplex helical nucleic acid topologies, have emerged in recent years as novel targets, with untapped potential for anticancer research. Their potential stems from the fact that G-quadruplexes occur in functionally-important regions of the human genome, such as the telomere tandem sequences, several proto-oncogene promoters, other regulatory regions and sequences of DNA (e.g., rDNA), as well as in mRNAs encoding for proteins with roles in tumorigenesis. Modulation of G-quadruplexes, via interaction with high-affinity ligands, leads to their stabilization, with numerous observed anticancer effects. Despite the fact that only a few lead compounds for G-quadruplex modulation have progressed to clinical trials so far, recent advancements in the field now create conditions that foster further development of drug candidates. This review highlights biological processes through which G-quadruplexes can exert their anticancer effects and describes, via selected case studies, progress of the last few years on the development of efficient and drug-like G-quadruplex-targeted ligands, intended to harness the anticancer potential offered by G-quadruplexes. The review finally provides a critical discussion of perceived challenges and limitations that have previously hampered the progression of G-quadruplex-targeted lead compounds to clinical trials, concluding with an optimistic future outlook.
Photostable and Uniform CH3NH3PbI3 Perovskite Film Prepared via Stoichiometric Modification and Solvent Engineering
Authors: Hong Daocheng , Xie Mingyi , Tian Yuxi
Published: February 2021

Solution-processed organometal halide perovskites (OMHPs) have been widely used in optoelectronic devices, and have exhibited brilliant performance. One of their generally recognized advantages is their easy fabrication procedure. However, such a procedure also brings uncertainty about the opto-electric properties of the final samples and devices, including morphology, stability, coverage ratio, and defect concentration. Normally, one needs to find a balanced condition, because there is a competitive relation between these parameters. In this work, we fabricated CH3NH3PbI3 films by carefully changing the ratio of the PbI2 to CH3NH3I, and found that the stoichiometric and solvent engineering not only determined the photoluminescence efficiency and defects in the materials, but also affected the photostability, morphology, and coverage ratio. Combining solvent engineering and the substitution of PbI2 by Pb(Ac)2, we obtained an optimized fabrication condition, providing uniform CH3NH3PbI3 films with both high photoluminescence efficiency and high photostability under either I-rich or Pb-rich conditions. These results provide an optimized fabrication procedure for CH3NH3PbI3 and other OMHP films, which is crucial for the performance of perovskite-based solar cells and light emitting devices.
Recrystallization of CsPbBr3 Nanoparticles in Fluoropolymer Nonwoven Mats for Down- and Up-Conversion of Light
Authors: Neplokh Vladimir , Markina Daria I. , Baeva Maria , Pavlov Anton M. , Kirilenko Demid A. , Mukhin Ivan S. , Pushkarev Anatoly P. , Makarov Sergey V. , Serdobintsev Alexey A.
Published: February 2021

Inorganic halides perovskite CsPbX3 (X = Cl, Br, and I or mixed halide systems Cl/Br and Br/I) nanoparticles are efficient light-conversion objects that have attracted significant attention due to their broadband tunability over the entire visible spectral range of 410–700 nm and high quantum yield of up to 95%. Here, we demonstrate a new method of recrystallization of CsPbBr3 nanoparticles inside the electrospun fluoropolymer fibers. We have synthesized nonwoven tetrafluoroethylene mats embedding CsPbBr3 nanoparticles using inexpensive commercial precursors and syringe electrospinning equipment. The fabricated nonwoven mat samples demonstrated both down-conversion of UV light to 506 nm and up-conversion of IR femtosecond laser radiation to 513 nm green photoluminescence characterized by narrow emission line-widths of 35 nm. Nanoparticle formation inside nonwoven fibers was confirmed by TEM imaging and water stability tests controlled by fluorimetry measurements. The combination of enhanced optical properties of CsPbBr3 nanoparticles and mechanical stability and environmental robustness of highly deformable nonwoven fluoropolymer mats is appealing for flexible optoelectronic applications, while the industry-friendly fabrication method is attractive for commercial implementations.
Trends in Diet Quality and Related Sociodemographic, Health, and Occupational Characteristics among Workers in Spain: Results from Three Consecutive National Health Surveys (2006–2017)
Authors: Portero de la Cruz Silvia , Cebrino Jesús
Published: February 2021

Poor dietary practices are commonly reported in working populations from different economic sectors, resulting in increased absenteeism and a decrease in productivity. The aims of this study were to describe the frequency of food consumption and diet quality in workers aged ≥16 years from 2006 to 2017 in Spain and to evaluate the factors associated with diet quality. A nationwide cross-sectional study was carried out among workers using data from the Spanish National Health Surveys in 2006 (n = 11,068), 2011 (n = 7497) and 2017 (n = 8890). Sociodemographic, occupational, and health-related variables were used as well as diet quality data. A multiple linear regression was performed to determine the characteristics related to overall diet quality. The percentage of workers who consumed vegetables, at most, once or twice per week decreased from 2006 to 2017 (p < 0.001). A lower diet quality score was related to the consumption of tobacco and alcohol and being aged ≥25 years old, while a higher diet quality score was linked to being a woman, having Spanish nationality, receiving optimal perceived social support, being physically active in one’s main occupation, doing leisure-time physical activity, and the type of contract.
Effects of Postpartum Fatigue and Depressive Cognitions on Life Satisfaction and Quality of Life in Arab Postpartum Women: The Intervening Role of Resourcefulness
Authors: Badr Hanan A. , Zauszniewski Jaclene A. , Quinn Griffin Mary , Burant Christopher J. , Przeworski Amy , Almutairi Wedad M. , Alsharif Fatmah H.
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this study is to explore the relationships among postpartum fatigue (PPF), depressive cognitions, resourcefulness, quality of life, and life satisfaction in Arab postpartum mothers. A conceptual framework is used in this study based on the middle range theory of resourcefulness, which Zauszniewski developed in 2006. The study is a cross-sectional descriptive design with 123 postpartum women who had given birth within the past six months. used WhatsApp and Facebook for recruitment. developed the self-administered online survey in Qualtrics and collected data from 6 January 2017, to 6 February 2017. Correlation analysis is used to address the research aim and used the P value of 0.05 to determine the significance of the results. There were significant correlations among depressive cognitions and resourcefulness, life satisfaction, and quality of life; there were also significant correlations between PPF and life satisfaction, as well as among resourcefulness, quality of life, and life satisfaction. The results of this study emphasized the importance of assessing depressive symptoms and PPF in mothers early in the postpartum period. The results may contribute to designing future intervention studies aimed toward decreasing the risk of mothers with PPF developing more serious depressive symptoms.