bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polyphenols-loaded electrospun nanofibers in bone tissue engineering and regeneration
Authors: Raja Iruthayapandi Selestin , Preeth Desingh Raj , Vedhanayagam Mohan , Hyon Suong-Hyu , Lim Dohyung , Kim Bongju , Rajalakshmi Subramaniyam , Han Dong-Wook
Published: September 2021

Bone is a complex structure with unique cellular and molecular process in its formation. Bone tissue regeneration is a well-organized and routine process at the cellular and molecular level in humans through the activation of biochemical pathways and protein expression. Though many forms of biomaterials have been applied for bone tissue regeneration, electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds have attracted more attention among researchers with their physicochemical properties such as tensile strength, porosity, and biocompatibility. When drugs, antibiotics, or functional nanoparticles are taken as additives to the nanofiber, its efficacy towards the application gets increased. Polyphenol is a versatile green/phytochemical small molecule playing a vital role in several biomedical applications, including bone tissue regeneration. When polyphenols are incorporated as additives to the nanofibrous scaffold, their combined properties enhance cell attachment, proliferation, and differentiation in bone tissue defect. The present review describes bone biology encompassing the composition and function of bone tissue cells and exemplifies the series of biological processes associated with bone tissue regeneration. We have highlighted the molecular mechanism of bioactive polyphenols involved in bone tissue regeneration and specified the advantage of electrospun nanofiber as a wound healing scaffold. As the polyphenols contribute to wound healing with their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, we have compiled a list of polyphenols studied, thus far, for bone tissue regeneration along with their in vitro and in vivo experimental biological results and salient observations. Finally, we have elaborated on the importance of polyphenol-loaded electrospun nanofiber in bone tissue regeneration and discussed the possible challenges and future directions in this field.
A feasibility evaluation of Discovery Group: determining the acceptability and potential outcomes of a patient-led research group in a secure mental health inpatient setting
Authors: Aboaja Anne , Atewogboye Oluwatosin , Arslan Mudassar , Parry-Newton Lucia , Wilson Lindsey
Published: September 2021

Background

Patient and public involvement and engagement (PPIE) is recognised as an essential part of health research. In addition to providing an opportunity for patients to shape health research and acquire research skills, in the inpatient mental health setting, PPIE may have additional value in providing meaningful activity and enhancing recovery, as defined using connectedness, hope, identity, meaning and empowerment (CHIME) principles. However, there have been challenges in applying PPIE principles in secure mental health inpatient settings. An eight -session PPIE programme (“Discovery Group”) was designed to support patient-led research in a secure mental health hospital. This feasibility study aims to evaluate the acceptability of the programme from the perspective of patients and identify potential outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective single-arm post-programme evaluation of Discovery Group was undertaken. Participants attended an evaluation workshop where they were interviewed individually to complete an acceptability questionnaire designed using the domains of the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability. Participants also completed an outcomes questionnaire,
which included CHIME-based recovery items, and were invited to share their ideas for programme improvement on posters. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively. Direct content analysis was applied to qualitative data.

Results

In our sample, eight participants attended at least one session of the discovery group with one patient attending all sessions. Most of the participants felt positive about taking part in the group and expressed interest in joining another group in future. All participants experienced some burden from the effort required during group sessions, but a low level of opportunity cost in terms of the extent to which they perceived they had to forfeit benefits to participate in the programme.. Some described the group as effective in helping them learn about research. Of the five CHIME recovery domains, only connectedness was reported as a benefit of the group. The participants valued the opportunity to use their time well and demonstrate that they were undertaking purposeful activity as part of their rehabilitation and recovery.

Conclusions

Discovery Group is a tool to overcome barriers to effective PPIE in research in a secure inpatient mental health setting. The programme has a high level of acceptability among participants and offered several potential outcomes which require testing through further study.
Closing the gap between 19F and 18F chemistry
Authors: Ajenjo Javier , Destro Gianluca , Cornelissen Bart , Gouverneur Véronique
Published: September 2021

Positron emission tomography (PET) has become an invaluable tool for drug discovery and diagnosis. The positron-emitting radionuclide fluorine-18 is frequently used in PET radiopharmaceuticals due to its advantageous characteristics; hence, methods streamlining access to 18F-labelled radiotracers can make a direct impact in medicine. For many years, access to 18F-labelled radiotracers was limited by the paucity of methodologies available, and the poor diversity of precursors amenable to 18F-incorporation. During the last two decades, 18F-radiochemistry has progressed at a fast pace with the appearance of numerous methodologies for late-stage 18F-incorporation onto complex molecules from a range of readily available precursors including those that do not require pre-functionalisation. Key to these advances is the inclusion of new activation modes to facilitate 18F-incorporation. Specifically, new advances in late-stage 19F-fluorination under transition metal catalysis, photoredox catalysis, and organocatalysis combined with the availability of novel 18F-labelled fluorination reagents have enabled the invention of novel processes for 18F-incorporation onto complex (bio)molecules. This review describes these major breakthroughs with a focus on methodologies for C–18F bond formation. This reinvigorated interest in 18F-radiochemistry that we have witnessed in recent years has made a direct impact on 19F-chemistry with many laboratories refocusing their efforts on the development of methods using nucleophilic fluoride instead of fluorination reagents derived from molecular fluorine gas.
3D printed composite model of pelvic osteochondroma and nerve roots
Authors: Fox Olivia , Kanawati Andrew
Published: September 2021

Background

3D-printing has become increasingly utilized in the preoperative planning of clinical orthopaedics. Surgical treatment of bone tumours within the pelvis is challenging due to the complex 3D bone structure geometry, as well as the proximity of vital structures. We present a unique case where a composite bone and nerve model of the lower lumbar spine, pelvis and accompanying nerve roots was created using 3D-printing. The 3D-printed model created an accurate reconstruction of the pelvic tumour and traversing nerves for preoperative planning and allowed for efficient and safe surgery.

Case presentation

We present a unique case where a composite bone and nerve model of the lower lumbar spine, pelvis and accompanying nerve roots was created using 3D-printing. The bony pelvis and spine model was created using the CT, whereas the nerve roots were derived from the MRI and printed in an elastic material. 3D-printed model created an accurate reconstruction of the pelvic tumour and traversing nerves for preoperative planning and allowed for efficient and safe surgery. Pelvic tumour surgery is inherently dangerous due to the delicate nature of the surrounding anatomy. The composite model enabled the surgeon to very carefully navigate the anatomy with a focused resection and extreme care knowing the exact proximity of the L3 and L4 nerve roots.

Conclusion

The patient had complete resection of this tumour, no neurological complication and full resolution of his symptoms due to careful, preoperative planning with the use of the composite 3D model.
The protective role of statins in COVID-19 patients: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Umakanthan Srikanth , Senthil Sanjum , John Stanley , Madhavan Mahesh K. , Das Jessica , Patil Sonal , Rameshwaram Ragunath , Cintham Ananya , Subramaniam Venkatesh , Yogi Madhusudan , Bansal Abhishek , Achutham Sumesh , Shekar Chandini , Murthy Vijay , Selvaraj Robbin
Published: September 2021

Background

To evaluate and determine the protective role of statins in COVID-19 patients.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study conducted across five hospitals in India. Patients diagnosed with COVID-19 and hospitalized with existing and valid medical documentation were included.

Results

This study comprised 3252 COVID-19 patients, of whom 1048 (32.2%) were on statins, with 52.4% being males. The comorbidity prevalence of hypertension was 75%, followed by diabetes 62.51% and coronary artery disease being 47.5%. At the time of hospitalization, statin users had a higher incidence of dyspnea, cough, and fatigue (95.8, 93.3, and 92.7%). The laboratory results revealed a lower mean of WBC count (7.8 × 103/μL), D-dimer (2.4 μg/mL), and C-reactive protein (103 mg/L) among statin users. They also had lower mortality rates (17.1%), a lesser requirement for mechanical ventilation (20%), and hemodialysis (5.4%).

Conclusion

This observation study elaborates on the beneficial effects of statins in COVID-19 patients. However, the inferences from this study should be viewed with caution due to the impending effect of confounding factors on its statistical results.
Planktonic flora and fauna of Opa Reservoir wetlands, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
Authors: Adebayo Aderonke Tolulope , Adewole Henry Adefisayo , Akindele Emmanuel Olusegun , Olaleye Victor Folorunso
Published: September 2021

Background

Wetlands are transition zones between aquatic and terrestrial environments of Opa Reservoir Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, threatened by increase in agricultural practices and urbanization within the catchment area. A critical appraisal of the current ecological integrity of the wetlands using planktonic composition and community structure which are formidable to sustaining wetlands is essential, hence this study.

Result

A total of 104 plankton species comprises of 68 species of phytoplankton and 36 species of zooplankton were recorded from the wetlands. In each sampled location and during the sampling period, Bacillariophyta had the highest occurrence among the phytoplankton, while Rotifera recorded the highest occurrence among the zooplankton. Generally, Synedra ulna and copepod (cyclopoid) Nauplius, respectively, were the most common phytoplankton and zooplankton recorded during the period of study. Analyses also showed that the phytoplankton had a higher species occurrence and abundance (65.3% and 98.18%, respectively) than the zooplankton (34.6% and 1.82%, respectively). Diversity indices (Shannon–Wiener, Margalef, and Simpson) analyses of both plankton groups revealed that the wetlands were generally polluted.

Conclusion

The study concluded that the ability of the wetlands to support and maintain a balanced adaptive community of plankton with species composition and diversity is being eroded due to anthropogenic activities in the wetland areas. This could have some ecological and socioeconomic implications considering the fact that they are intrinsically a part of the adjoining reservoir which provides many ecosystem services.
The future of Swiss hydropower: how to distribute the risk and the profits?
Authors: Kosch Mirjam , Betz Regina , Geissmann Thomas , Schillinger Moritz , Weigt Hannes
Published: September 2021

Low electricity prices put economic pressure on hydropower companies. A more flexible water fee design can counteract this pressure and support hydropower companies during times when market revenues are low. However, this comes at the cost of lower revenues for resource owners. Using a sample of cost data for 62 companies and revenue data derived from an electricity market model, we have quantified this trade-off for the case of Switzerland. We found that electricity market price developments dominate changes in water fees and that for the profitability of hydropower, electricity prices are more important than water fee levels. However, with electricity prices of around CHF 40 per MWh, water fees can make the difference between profit and loss. Therefore, while flexible water fee regimes shift the market risk from producers to resource owners to some extent, the extent of this risk shift depends on the detailed design of the flexible regime.
Efficacy and safety of hydro-mechanical defragmentation in intermediate- and high-risk pulmonary embolism
Authors: Hassan Ayman K. M. , Ahmed Heba , Ahmed Yousef , Elfadl Abd-Elazim Abo , Omar Amany
Published: September 2021

Background

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is the third most common acute cardiovascular syndrome. Percutaneous catheter directed hydro-mechanical defragmentation (HMD) is one of the recommended treatment options for PE in patients with contraindications to thrombolytic therapy or failed systemic thrombolysis (ST). We aimed to identify the safety and outcomes of catheter directed HMD in patients with high-risk PE. This nonrandomized controlled trial enrolled all patients with confirmed diagnoses of high- and intermediate-high-risk PE from October 2019 till January 2021. Fifty patients were included and divided into two groups by the PE response team according to the presence or absence of a contraindication for ST. Group B (ST) consists of 25 patients and group A (HMD) of 25 patients who cannot receive ST.

Results

The two groups were comparable regarding baseline clinical characteristics with mean age 51 ± 13 years. In group A, systolic blood pressure (BP) and oxygen saturation increased after 24 h (p = 0.002) and 48 h (p < 0.001) compared to pre-HMD procedure. Mean pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) and respiratory rate (RR) decreased after 48 h and at 30 days (p < 0.001) compared to pre-HMD procedure. The increase in systolic BP and oxygen saturation were significantly higher in HMD group compared with ST group after 48 h and at 30 days (p < 0.007). The decrease in PASP and RR was significantly higher in HMD group compared to ST group after 48 h and at 30 days (p < 0.001). Mortality rate at 30 days was 20% in HMD group compared to 32% in ST group.

Conclusions

Catheter directed HMD for high-risk and intermediate-high-risk PE is safe and effective with acceptable mortality

Trial registration Clinical trial ID: NCT04099186.
Palatal petechiae: an uncommon oral adverse effect of COVID-19 vaccine
Authors: Sayare Bhawna , Bhardwaj Vinay Kumar , Sharma Deepak
Published: September 2021

Background

The authors present an unusual, unreported oral adverse effect of COVID-19 vaccine as palatal petechiae lesions.

Case presentation

COVID-19 disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 has become a global health crisis and has caused millions of deaths worldwide. Vaccination programs have been initiated in many countries for COVID-19 prevention. The ChAdOx-nCoV-19 vaccine has been shown to provide a robust immune response in various clinical trials. It is well tolerated by recipients and has been associated with minor adverse effects. The COVISHIELD (ChAdOx-nCoV-19) vaccine developed by AstraZeneca/Oxford University is approved by the Government of India to be administered in a phased manner. We present the case of twin subjects who suffered various adverse effects after receiving the COVISHIELD vaccine; one of the twins presented with palatal petechiae lesions presumably caused by the vaccine. The lesions were self-limiting and required no treatment.

Conclusion

Oral lesions reported first time in our case should be correlated with similar lesions found post-COVID vaccines globally. There is a further need to ascertain a high level of scientific evidence and explore the biological plausibility underlying oral complications and COVID vaccinations.
Impact of air pollution and smoking on COVID-19: a review
Authors: Vijayakumar Vijaytha , Sabu A. , Haridas M.
Published: September 2021

Background

The 21st century already witnessed many deadly epidemics and pandemics. The major ones were respiratory tract infections like SARS (2003), H1N1 (2009), MERS (2012) and the most recent pandemic COVID-19 (2019). The COVID-19 story begins when pneumonia of unknown cause was reported in the WHO country office of China at the end of 2019. SARS-CoV-2 is the causative agent that enters the host through the receptor ACE2, a component of the renin–angiotensin system.

Main body of the abstract

Symptoms of COVID-19 varies from patient to patient. It is all about the immunity and health status of the individual that decides the severity of the disease. The review focuses on the significant and often prevailing factors, those that influence the lung function. The factors that compromise the lung functions which may prepare the ground for severe COVID-19 infection are interestingly looked into. Focus was more on air pollution and cigarette smoke.

Short conclusion

The fact that the forested areas across the world show very low COVID-19 infection rate suggests that we are in need of the “Clean Air” on the fiftieth anniversary of World Earth Day. As many policies are implemented worldwide to protect from SARS-CoV-2, one simple remedy that we forgot was clean air can save lives. SARS-CoV-2 infects our lungs, and air pollution makes us more susceptible. In this crucial situation, the focus is only on the main threat; all other conditions are only in words to console the situation.
Hyperglycemic Emergencies Associated With COVID-19 Vaccination: A Case Series and Discussion
Authors: Lee Hanna J , Sajan Alen , Tomer Yaron
Published: September 2021

Context

Hyperglycemic emergencies such as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome (HHS) and new-onset diabetes mellitus (DM) have been reported in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections. Hyperglycemia is a predictor of poor prognosis in COVID-19 disease.

Objectives

The objective of this work is to describe a case series of HHS and/or DKA likely triggered by the COVID-19 vaccine. The aim is to alert physicians of the potential hyperglycemic complications from the COVID-19 vaccination and to provide further insight into the underlying mechanism of the bidirectional relationship between SARS-CoV-2 and DM.

Case Descriptions

All 3 patients developed HHS and/or DKA within 2 to 10 days of the COVID-19 vaccination. PCR testing for SARS-CoV-2 was negative and other clinical precipitating factors were excluded. Two patients had a history of type 2 DM (T2DM) with pre-admission HbA1c levels of 7.0% to 7.5% while 1 patient was newly diagnosed with T2DM during the hospitalization. They were each treated with insulin infusion and were discharged on subcutaneous insulin therapy. Due to the rapid resolution of the hyperglycemia, insulin was discontinued in all patients within 8 weeks and they remain well-controlled on oral DM medications.

Conclusion

Severe hyperglycemia including HHS and DKA may be triggered by COVID-19 vaccination. Early evaluation and screening of patients with hyperglycemic symptoms after COVID-19 vaccination is recommended. The vaccine-induced hyperglycemia may provide further insight into the underlying pathogenesis caused by the SARS-CoV-2 infection itself. The underlying robust inflammatory response and “cytokine storm” may be the primary precipitant.
Dental amalgam: a practical guide
Authors: Mackenzie Louis
Published: September 2021

Historically, dental amalgam is the world's most commonly used restorative material. Its use is declining due to patient and professional demand for tooth-coloured restorations that are adhesive and promote minimally invasive tooth preparation techniques. Significant reduction has also resulted from environmental concerns relating to dental amalgam's ~50% mercury content. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the status of dental amalgam including its advantages and disadvantages, amalgam safety, regulations and legislation and a comparison with alternative restorative materials. As the undergraduate teaching of amalgam procedures has progressively declined, this paper also provides an illustrated step-by-step revision guide to the materials, equipment and clinical techniques that will optimize the restoration of challenging, complex cavities, where amalgam is still considered by many to be the material of choice.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Amalgam remains an excellent restorative material for long-lasting restorations in large/complex cavities and where moisture control presents challenges.
Bonding to dentine: an update on universal adhesives
Authors: Burke FJ Trevor , Mackenzie Louis
Published: September 2021

The ability to successfully bond restorations to dentine is central to minimally invasive restorative dentistry. While dentine bonding agents have gone through a variety of ‘generations’, it is the purpose of this article to describe the latest clinical and laboratory research on universal adhesives. Results from the latest laboratory and clinical research indicates that universal adhesives are a step forward in the quest for the ultimate bond to tooth substance and ease of use of the adhesive. The wide variety of studies that indicates the effectiveness of universal adhesives are discussed, along with research that indicates that selective enamel etching is a beneficial procedure when using these materials.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Universal adhesives appear to hold promise in the quest for a reliable bond to dentine.
Conventional glass-ionomer cements: a guide for practitioners
Authors: Mylonas Petros , Zhang Jing , Banerjee Avijit
Published: September 2021

Glass-polyalkenoate cements, also known as glass-ionomer cements (GICs), are one of the most commonly used bio-interactive restorative dental materials, having been available since the 1970s. With the promotion of minimally invasive operative dentistry (MID), and the reduction in the use of dental amalgam worldwide, the popularity of these materials has grown significantly in recent years. This article outlines the basics and clinical importance of GIC material science, and provides an overview of their use in restorative dentistry.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: GICs are versatile dental biomaterials that require correct case selection, material handling and placement technique to ensure optimal clinical success.
Hydraulic cements for various applications in endodontics: Part 2
Authors: Bonsor Stephen J , Camilleri Josette
Published: September 2021

The first article in this two-part series described the properties and use of hydraulic cements for intra-coronal applications, mainly for vital pulp therapy and as a barrier for regenerative endodontic procedures. In Part 2, the intra-radicular and extra-radicular uses are discussed. Hydraulic cements are a unique set of materials that set in the presence of water and, when set, they are resistant to deterioration in a damp environment. The use of hydraulic cements within the root canal (root canal sealer and apical plug) and when used at the periodontal–endodontic interface (perforation repair and root-end filler) is described and illustrated with clinical cases.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Hydraulic cements are indicated for a number of procedures in endodontics and this is supported by an extensive and increasing body of evidence with respect to their efficacy.
Ceramics in dentistry: which material is appropriate for the anterior or posterior Dentition? Part 1: materials science
Authors: Win Loo Chien , Sands Peter , Bonsor Stephen J , Burke FJ Trevor
Published: September 2021

The large choice of ceramic materials for an indirect restoration has given clinicians a dilemma when choosing a suitable ceramic for restorations in anterior or posterior teeth. Focusing principally on the most commonly used materials, lithium disilicate and zirconia, the aim of Part 1 of this article is to compare the mechanical properties and aesthetics of these two materials. For strength, zirconia possesses superior physical properties when compared with lithium disilicate. However, in terms of aesthetics, lithium disilicate holds advantages. With both materials having different microstructures, the same cementation protocols cannot be used. Other contemporary ceramic materials are briefly reviewed. Part 2 reviews the latest clinical research on their clinical performance.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Awareness of which ceramic material performs optimally on anterior and posterior teeth is clinically important.
On metric dimension of plane graphs $\mathfrak{J}_{n}$, $\mathfrak{K}_{n}$ and $\mathfrak{L}_{n}$
Authors: SHARMA Sunny Kumar , SHARMA Sunny Kumar
Published: September 2021

Let $\Gamma=\Gamma(\mathbb{V},\mathbb{E})$ be a simple (i.e., multiple edges and loops and are not allowed), connected (i.e., there exists a path between every pair of vertices), and an undirected (i.e., all the edges are bidirectional) graph. Let $d_{\Gamma}(\varrho_{i},\varrho_{j})$ denotes the geodesic distance between two nodes $\varrho_{i},\varrho_{j} \in \mathbb{V}$. The problem of characterizing the classes of plane graphs with constant metric dimensions is of great interest nowadays. In this article, we characterize three classes of plane graphs (viz., $\mathfrak{J}_{n}$, $\mathfrak{K}_{n}$, and $\mathfrak{L}_{n}$) which are generated by taking n-copies of the complete bipartite graph (or a star) $K_{1,5}$, and all of these plane graphs are radially symmetrical with the constant metric dimension. We show that three vertices is a minimal requirement for the unique identification of all vertices of these three classes of plane graphs.
Involuntary Dogme restrictions: Orca and COVID-19 screen culture
Authors: Koskinen Maaret
Published: September 2021

The Swedish film Orca (2020) was both conceived and produced during COVID-19. As such, it is also about the pandemic and its own becoming. Making use of the proliferation of current screen cultures, including the split screen, writer and director Josephine Bornebusch invigorates old-fashioned ensemble acting while also putting current mediality on display.
‘Battleship Femininity’ deconstructed: Unmasking the myth of Eva Dahlbeck and Ingmar Bergman
Authors: Kobayashi Saki
Published: September 2021

The Swedish film star Eva Dahlbeck (1920–2008) is now remembered mainly for her contributions to Ingmar Bergman’s comedies in the 1950s. The epithet ‘Pansarskeppet kvinnligheten’ (‘Battleship Femininity’), allegedly given to her by the director, has integrated her stardom into the myth-making process driven by Bergman and the press. This can erroneously give him sole credit for Dahlbeck’s fame despite her already established star status. To reconsider such an auteurist misconception, this article examines Dahlbeck’s stardom from 1946 to 1956, drawing on Richard Dyer’s seminal theorization of a film star as a media construction. By analysing Dahlbeck’s star image and its relationship to three characters she plays in Bergman’s films, the article situates these films in the dynamics formed by diverse media texts and elucidates their historical and cultural context while also providing a case study of film stardom in post-war Sweden.
The Efficiency of Aggregation Methods in Ensemble Filter Feature Selection Models
Authors: Noureldien Noureldien , Mohmoud Saffa
Published: September 2021

Ensemble feature selection is recommended as it proves to produce a more stable subset of features and a better classiﬁcation accuracy when compared to the individual feature selection methods. In this approach, the output of feature selection methods, called base selectors, are combined using some aggregation methods. For filter feature selection methods, a list aggregation method is needed to aggregate output ranked lists into a single list, and since many list aggregation methods have been proposed the decision on which method to use to build the optimum ensemble model is a de facto question.

      In this paper, we investigate the efficiency of four aggregation methods, namely; Min, Median, Arithmetic Mean, and Geometric Mean. The performance of aggregation methods is evaluated using five datasets from different scientific fields with a variant number of instances and features. Besides, the classifies used in the evaluation are selected from three different classes, Trees, Rules, and Bayes.

      The experimental results show that 11 out of the 15 best performance results are corresponding to ensemble models. And out of the 11 best performance ensemble models, the most efficient aggregation methods are Median (5/11), followed by Arithmetic Mean (3/11) and Min (3/11). Also, results show that as the number of features increased, the efficient aggregation method changes from Min to Median to Arithmetic Mean. This may suggest that for a very high number of features the efficient aggregation method is the Arithmetic Mean. And generally, there is no aggregation method that is the best for all cases.
Connecting Smart Homes to Healthcare Services for People with Neurodegenerative disorders.
Authors: Nour Mhamed
Published: September 2021

The objective of this research is to provide an approach for the design of what we have called ‘connected homes’ with a study case for elderly people with dementia living alone. These homes would be connected to a center of surveillance for direct and automatic view of multiple status of the day such as patient security and general health indicators (body temperature, heart rate, blood pressure etc.), detect the intake of meals, eating motivation, humor detection prevention of falls, Alcohol consumption detection, safe use of medicines and emergency situations and other Human Activity Recognition (HAR). The model may also predict situations by using past data accumulation. The model could even send alerts in case of emergency.

This service would mean that there would minimum intervention from caregivers thanks to the Artificial Intelligence.

As a case study, we proposed a new approach for the conception of connected homes for people with dementia to a central office for automatic human activity detection and help and support accordingly. Such conception includes home design concepts according to standard recommendations and the implementation of new added assistive technology tools to permit the automatic surveillance without violating the ethic requirements.

Two installation models will be proposed to consider the financial situation of the patient: a unit or appliance at the patient’s home or a home that is connected to a central office.
AI++ : Artificial Intelligence Plus Plus
Authors: Gajawada Satish , Mustafa Hassan M. H.
Published: September 2021

..
Interior and boundary regularity results for strongly nonhomogeneousp,q-fractional problems
Authors: Giacomoni Jacques , Kumar Deepak , Sreenadh Konijeti
Published: September 2021

In this article, we deal with the global regularity of weak solutions to a class of problems involving the fractional(p,q){(p,q)}-Laplacian, denoted by(-Δ)ps1+(-Δ)qs2{(-\Delta)^{s_{1}}_{p}+(-\Delta)^{s_{2}}_{q}}fors2,s1∈(0,1){s_{2},s_{1}\in(0,1)}and1<p,q<∞{1<p,q<\infty}. We establish completely new Hölder continuity results, up to the boundary, for the weak solutions to fractional(p,q){(p,q)}-problems involving singular as well as regular nonlinearities. Moreover, as applications to boundary estimates, we establish a new Hopf-type maximum principle and a strong comparison principle in both situations.
1
,
2
,
3
1,2,3
, some inductive real sequences and a beautiful algebraic pattern
Authors: Abdymanapov Sarsengali Abdygalievich , Altynbek Serik , Begehr Anton , Begehr Heinrich
Published: September 2021

By rewriting the relation

1
+
2

=
3

{1+2=3}

as

1

2

+

2

2

=

3

2

{\sqrt{1}^{2}+\sqrt{2}^{2}=\sqrt{3}^{2}}

, a right triangle is looked at. Some
geometrical observations in connection with plane parqueting lead to
an inductive sequence of right triangles with

1

2

+

2

2

=

3

2

{\sqrt{1}^{2}+\sqrt{2}^{2}=\sqrt{3}^{2}}

as initial one converging to the
segment

[
0
,
1
]

{[0,1]}

of the real line. The sequence of their hypotenuses
forms a sequence of real numbers which initiates some beautiful
algebraic patterns. They are determined through some recurrence
relations which are proper for being evaluated with computer
algebra.
Generating functions involving the incomplete H-functions
Authors: Jangid Kamlesh , Purohit Sunil Dutt , Nisar Kottakkaran Sooppy , Araci Serkan
Published: September 2021

In this article, for the incomplete H-functions, we obtain a set of new generating functions. The bilateral along with linear generating relations are derived for the incomplete H-functions. Many of the generating functions readily accessible in the literature are often deemed as implementations of the main findings. All the derived findings are of a natural type and can produce a variety of new results in generating function theory.
The electrochemical redox mechanism and antioxidant activity of polyphenolic compounds based on inlaid multi-walled carbon nanotubes-modified graphite electrode
Authors: Li Xiaofen , Gao Yuntao , Xiong Huabin , Yang Zhi
Published: September 2021

The electrochemical redox mechanism of polyphenolic compounds (gallic acid [GA], caffeic acid [CA], ferulic acid [FA], and vanillic acid [VA]) were investigated by electrochemical methods at the inlaid multi-walled carbon nanotubes-modified graphite electrode (MWCNTs/GCE). The obtained micro-information such as the number of electrons and protons were used to deduce the electrochemical oxidation mechanism of four polyphenolic compounds. The antioxidation activities of these compounds were also studied by two methods. The radical scavenging activity followed the order: GA > CA > FA > VA, which was in agreement with the result from the spectrophotometry method. The result indicated that compounds with lower oxidation peak potential (Epa) showed stronger antioxidation activity. At the same time, compounds with highEpashowed lower antioxidant activity. The greater the number of hydroxyls linked to the aromatic ring, the greater the antioxidation activities of four compounds. Structural analysis of these phenolic-based compounds suggested that multiple OH substitutions and conjugations determine their free radical scavenging activity and electrochemical behavior.
Investigation of bovine serum albumin aggregation upon exposure to silver(i) and copper(ii) metal ions using Zetasizer
Authors: Alhazmi Hassan A. , Ahsan Waquar , Ibrahim Angum M. M. , Khubrani Rawan Ali Yahya , Haddadi Zainab Ali Abdullah , Safhi Amjad Yahya Fathi , Shubayr Nasser , Al Bratty Mohammed , Najmi Asim
Published: September 2021

Depending upon the metal coordination capacity and the binding sites of proteins, interaction between metal and proteins leads to a number of changes in the protein molecule which may include the change in conformation, unfolding, overall charge, and aggregation in some cases. In this study, Cu(ii) and Ag(i) metal ions were selected to investigate aggregation of bovine serum albumin (BSA) molecule upon interaction by measuring the size and charge of the aggregates using nano-Zetasizer instrument. Two concentrations of metal ions were made to interact with a specific concentration of BSA and the size and zeta potential of BSA aggregates were measured from 0 min upto 18 h. The Cu(ii) and Ag(i) metal ions showed almost similar behavior in inducing the BSA aggregation and the intensity of peak corresponding to the normal-sized protein decreased with time, whereas the peak corresponding to the protein aggregate increased. However, the effect on zeta potential of the aggregates was observed to be different with both metal ions. The aggregation of protein due to interaction of different metal ions is important to study as it gives insight to the pathogenesis of many neurological disorders and would result in developing effective ways to limit their exposure.
The SPRT Sign Chart for Process Dispersion
Authors: Godase Dadasaheb G. , Mahadik Shashibhushan B.
Published: September 2021

A nonparametric sequential probability ratio test control chart to monitor the process dispersion based on the sequential sign statistic is proposed.
The statistical performance of this chart is evaluated by comparing it with that of the charts for dispersion based on sign statistic in the existing literature.
It is found that the proposed chart outperforms all these charts uniformly in detecting a shift of any size over a wide range.
An implementation of the chart is illustrated through an example.
Rankin–Selberg integrals for principal series representations of GL(n)
Authors: Liu Dongwen , Su Feng , Sun Binyong
Published: September 2021

We prove that the local Rankin–Selberg integrals for principal series representations of the general linear groups agree with certain simple integrals over the Rankin–Selberg subgroups, up to certain constants given by the local gamma factors.
Orange juice ultrafiltration: characterisation of deposit layers and membrane surfaces after fouling and cleaning
Authors: Abd-Razak Nurul Hainiza , Chew Y. M. John , Bird Michael R.
Published: September 2021

The influence of feed condition and membrane cleaning during the ultrafiltration (UF) of orange juice for phytosterol separation was investigated. UF was performed using regenerated cellulose acetate (RCA) membranes at different molecular weight cut-off (MWCO) values with a 336 cm2 membrane area and a range of temperatures (10–40 °C) and different feed volumes (3–9 L). Fluid dynamic gauging (FDG) was applied to assess the fouling and cleaning behaviours of RCA membranes fouled by orange juice and cleaned using P3-Ultrasil 11 over two complete cycles. During the FDG testing, fouling layers were removed by fluid shear stress caused by suction flow. The cleanability was characterised by using ImageJ software analysis. A Liebermann-Buchard-based method was used to quantify the phytosterol content. The results show that RCA 10 kDa filters exhibited the best separation of phytosterols from protein in orange juice at 20 °C using 3 L feed with a selectivity factor of 17. Membranes that were fouled after two cycles showed higher surface coverage compared to one fouling cycle. The surface coverage decreased with increasing fluid shear stress from 0 to 3.9 Pa. FDG achieved 80–95% removal at 3.9 Pa for all RCA membranes. Chemical cleaning using P3-Ultrasil 11 altered both the membrane surface hydrophobicity and roughness. These results show that the fouling layer on RCA membranes can be removed by fluid shear stress without affecting the membrane surface modification caused by chemical cleaning.
System correctness under adverse conditions
Authors: Olderog Ernst-Rüdiger , Fränzle Martin , Theel Oliver , Kröger Paul
Published: September 2021

This special issue presents seven overview articles on research conducted in the Research Training Group “System Correctness under Adverse Conditions” (SCARE) at the University of Oldenburg.
Isotonic saline causes greater volume overload than electrolyte-free irrigating fluids
Authors: Hahn Robert G.
Published: September 2021

Objectives

Systemic absorption of the irrigating fluid used to flush the operating site is a potentially serious complication in several types of endoscopic operations. To increase safety, many surgeons have changed from a monopolar to a bipolar resection technique because 0.9% saline can then be used instead of electrolyte-free fluid for irrigation. The present study examines whether the tendency for excessive plasma volume expansion is greater with saline than with electrolyte-free fluid.

Methods

Pooled data were analyzed from four studies in which a mean of 1.25 L of either 0.9% saline or an electrolyte-free irrigating fluid containing glycine, mannitol, and sorbitol was given by intravenous infusion on 80 occasions to male volunteers and patients scheduled for transurethral prostatic surgery. The distribution of the infused fluid was analyzed with a population volume kinetic model based on frequently measured hemodilution and the urinary excretion.

Results

Electrolyte-free fluid distributed almost twice as fast and was excreted four times faster than 0.9% saline. The distribution half-life was 6.5 and 10.6 min for the electrolyte-free fluid and saline, respectively, and the elimination half-lives (by urinary excretion) from the plasma volume were 21 and 87 min. Simulation showed that the plasma volume expansion was twice as great from 0.9% saline than from electrolyte-free fluid.

Conclusions

Isotonic (0.9%) saline expands the plasma volume by twice as much as occurs with electrolyte-free irrigating fluids. This difference might explain why signs of cardiovascular overload are the most commonly observed adverse effects when saline is absorbed during endoscopic surgery.
Differential coding scheme based FSO channel for optical coherent DP-16 QAM transceiver systems
Authors: Urooj Shabana , Alwadai Norah Muhammad , Sorathiya Vishal , Lavadiya Sunil , Parmar Juveriya , Patel Shobhit K. , Abd El-Aziz Ismail A. , Zaki Rashed Ahmed Nabih
Published: September 2021

This article has indicated optical coherent differential polarization (DP) 16 quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) transceiver systems with free-space optical (FSO) channel in the presence of differential coding scheme. The optical coherent DP 16-QAM receiver executes the reverse process conversion of the optical signal into an electrical one that is detected to the users. The proposed optical coherent DP-16 QAM transceiver systems based FSO channel model with differential coding has been presented and compared with the previous model. However, the simulation results have confidence realization about the superiority of the proposed simulation model. Hence the proposed optical coherent DP-16 QAM transceiver systems simulation model with differential coding is verified and validated the enhancement performance based on simulation performance parameters.
Performance analysis of free space optical system incorporating circular polarization shift keying and mode division multiplexing
Authors: Meenu  , Sharma Anshu , Malhotra Rahul
Published: September 2021

In this work, a free-space optical (FSO) communication system with the integration of mode division multiplexing and circular polarization shift keying (CpolSK) is proposed at 2 × 40 Gbps using LG00 and LG01 modes. Effects of diverse weather conditions such as clear weather, light rain, moderate rain, heavy rain, thin fog, thick fog, and heavy fog are studied on system performance. Further, a detailed comparison of CpolSK and polarization shift keying (PolSK) is performed at different FSO lengths in terms of log bit error rate. For implementation, analysis, and comparison, Optiwave Optisystem software is used and results show that CpolSK covers 100 km link distance and PolSK limits to 90 km only. Also, LG00 mode performs better than LG01 mode under all weather instabilities in the proposed system.
The effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on metabolic control in children with type 1 diabetes: a single-center experience
Authors: Sarıkaya Emre , Çiçek Dilek , Gök Ebru , Kara Leyla , Berber Uğur , Şiraz Ülkü Gül , Kendirci Mustafa , Hatipoğlu Nihal
Published: September 2021

Objectives

Coronavirus disease 2019 has caused a major epidemic worldwide, and lockdowns became necessary in all countries to prevent its spread. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of staying-at-home practices on the metabolic control of children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes during the pandemic period.

Materials and Methods

Eighty-nine patients younger than 18 years old who were diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at least one year before the declaration of the pandemic were included in the study. The last visit data of the patients before and after the declaration of the pandemic, and the frequency of presentation of diabetes-related emergencies from one year after diagnosis of type 1 diabetes to the declaration of the pandemic, and from the declaration of the pandemic to the last visit after the pandemic declaration were compared.

Results

The total number of patients was 89, and 48 (53.9%) were boys. The mean (± standard deviation [SD]) age at diagnosis was 8.4 ± 3.7 years (boys 7.9 ± 3.6 years; girls 8.9 ± 3.9 years). There was no statistically significant difference when the SD values of the anthropometric measurements, and the glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and lipid profile tests were compared. However, the frequency of admission to the emergency service related to diabetes was significantly different.

Conclusions

Although the pandemic did not significantly affect the metabolic and glycemic controls of the children with type 1 diabetes included in this study, an increase in the frequency of diabetes-related emergency admissions was noted.
Translation, transcultural remembrance and pandemic: a covert transediting of the Great Influenza memory for lessons to combat COVID-19 in Chinese online media
Authors: Hou Song , Yuan Mingming
Published: September 2021

This paper examines translation and transcultural remembrance of the 1918–19 Great Influenza or the more often yet mistakenly called “Spanish flu” for lessons to combat COVID-19 in Chinese online media. It presents a case study of “covert transediting” in the Shanghai Observer, i.e., a journalistic opinion that interweaves Chinese renderings of selected excerpts from four British and American media texts. With an integrated approach to travelling memory (Erll, Astrid. 2011. Travelling memory. Parallax 17(4). 4–18) via transediting, our analysis shows that the transeditor does not only choose source texts in terms of media and content, but also selectively reframes the “Spanish flu” memory for lesson learning in conjunction with the mainstream Chinese discourse and practice of COVID-19 control. It unveils how the Great Influenza is thus transculturally remembered in more simplified and ideologically agreeable manners through omission, summary translation, and transformation, while faithful transference is not sheerly dispensed. We contend that transcultural remembrance via transediting is a purposive, socio-culturally shaped practice involving interrelations and interactions of manifold factors, and we need a more complex approach to the politics of memory in translation. Journalistic translation, which is mostly covert and transediting, is among different genres of translation that shape transcultural memory; more research in their interplay is called for.