bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Policy Recommendations for Preventing Problematic Internet Use in Schools: A Qualitative Study of Parental Perspectives
Authors: Throuvala Melina A. , Griffiths Mark D. , Rennoldson Mike , Kuss Daria J.
Published: April 2021

Parenting in the digital age has been characterized as one of the most challenging tasks of the modern era. Parents are ambivalent about their mediating role. However, problematic aspects of adolescent online use have not been adequately addressed in education. The present study investigated parental perceptions of intervention needs within schools to prevent excessive/problematic use, enhance parent–child communication, and reduce family conflicts. Nine interviews with parents of adolescents residing in the UK were carried out and analyzed utilizing thematic analysis. Three main themes emerged as parental proposals: (i) schools as digital education providers and prevention hubs, (ii) provision of mental health literacy to raise awareness, resolve ambiguity regarding impacts and mitigate excessive use and impacts, and (iii) psychoeducation and upskilling. The third theme related to impacts from time spent on screens (time displacement), content-related impacts, and context-related impacts. The present study offers recommendations for media literacy during adolescence beyond e-safety (i.e., addressing interpersonal communication problems, privacy vs. disclosure issues), based on parents’ views, and provides new insights for media and emotional health literacy collaboration efforts. Future work should investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of such interventions to support the emotional health of young people and prevent problematic internet use escalation.
A Standardized Guide to Developing an Online Grocery Store for Testing Nutrition-Related Policies and Interventions in an Online Setting
Authors: Rummo Pasquale E. , Higgins Isabella , Chauvenet Christina , Vesely Annamaria , Jaacks Lindsay M. , Taillie Lindsey
Published: April 2021

Simulated online grocery store platforms are innovative tools for studying nutrition-related policies and point-of-selection/point-of-purchase interventions in online retail settings, yet there is no clear guidance on how to develop these platforms for experimental research. Thus, we created a standardized guide for the development of an online grocery store, including a detailed description of (1) methods for acquiring and cleaning online grocery store data, and (2) how to design a two-dimensional online grocery store experimental platform. We provide guidance on how to address product categorization, product order/sorting and product details, including how to identify outliers and conflicting nutritional information and methods for standardizing prices. We also provide details regarding our process of “tagging” food items that can be leveraged by future studies examining policies and point-of-selection/point-of-purchase interventions targeting red and processed meat and fruits and vegetables. We experienced several challenges, including obtaining accurate and up-to-date product information and images, and accounting for the presence of store-brand products. Regardless, the methodology described herein will enable researchers to examine the effects of a wide array of nutrition-related policies and interventions on food purchasing behaviors in online retail settings, and can be used as a template for reporting procedures in future research.
Development of Measures of Perceived Neighborhood Environmental Attributes Influencing, and Perceived Barriers to Engagement in, Healthy Behaviors for Older Chinese Immigrants to Australia
Authors: Cerin Ester , Yin Shiyuan , Choi Wing Ka , Ngan Winsfred , Tham Rachel , Barnett Anthony
Published: April 2021

Environmental correlates, barriers, and facilitators of physical activity, healthy eating, and socializing are understudied in older immigrants to developed countries. This study developed/adapted and validated measures of perceived barriers and neighborhood environmental characteristics related to these health-enhancing behaviors appropriate for older Chinese immigrants to Australia and similar Western countries. Older Chinese immigrants living in Melbourne (Australia) were recruited from neighborhoods varying in walkability and percentage of Chinese residents. Versions of the Neighborhood Environment for Healthy Aging–Chinese Immigrants to Australia (NEHA-CIA) questionnaire (20 subscales) and the Perceived Barriers to Health-Enhancing Behaviors questionnaire (four subscales) were developed from extant validated scales and information collected in formative qualitative research. Thirty-one participants took part in cognitive interviews aimed to pilot-test and refine the questionnaires. The modified questionnaires were administered to 52 participants twice, two weeks apart. Test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficients), internal consistency (Cronbach’s α), and construct validity (associations with theoretically-relevant constructs) were examined. Most items and subscales of both questionnaires had good test-retest reliability and internal consistency, while the NEHA-CIA also showed good construct validity. Future studies need to further examine the construct validity of the questionnaire of perceived barriers and determine the factorial validity of both measures on large representative samples.
Weekday-Weekend Sedentary Behavior and Recreational Screen Time Patterns in Families with Preschoolers, Schoolchildren, and Adolescents: Cross-Sectional Three Cohort Study
Authors: Sigmundová Dagmar , Sigmund Erik
Published: April 2021

Background: Excessive recreational screen time (RST) has been associated with negative health consequences already being apparent in preschoolers. Therefore, the aim of this study was to reveal parent-child sedentary behavior, and RST patterns and associations with respect to the gender, age category of children, and days of the week. Methods: Our cross-sectional survey included 1175 parent-child dyads with proxy-reported RST data collected during a regular school week during the spring and fall between 2013 and 2019. The parent-child RST (age and RST) relationship was quantified using Pearson’s (rP) correlation coefficient. Results: Weekends were characterized by longer RST for all family members (daughters/sons: +34/+33 min/day, mothers/fathers: +43/+14 min/day) and closer parent-child RST associations than on weekdays. The increasing age of children was positively associated with an increase in RST on weekdays (+6.4/+7.2 min per year of age of the daughter/son) and weekends (+5.8/+7.5 min per year of age of the daughter/son). Conclusions: Weekends provide a suitable target for implementation of programs aimed at reducing excessive RST involving not only children, but preferably parent-child dyads.
Development Issues of Healthcare Robots: Compassionate Communication for Older Adults with Dementia
Authors: Tanioka Tetsuya , Yokotani Tomoya , Tanioka Ryuichi , Betriana Feni , Matsumoto Kazuyuki , Locsin Rozzano , Zhao Yueren , Osaka Kyoko , Miyagawa Misao , Schoenhofer Savina
Published: April 2021

Although progress is being made in affective computing, issues remain in enabling the effective expression of compassionate communication by healthcare robots. Identifying, describing and reconciling these concerns are important in order to provide quality contemporary healthcare for older adults with dementia. The purpose of this case study was to explore the development issues of healthcare robots in expressing compassionate communication for older adults with dementia. An exploratory descriptive case study was conducted with the Pepper robot and older adults with dementia using high-tech digital cameras to document significant communication proceedings that occurred during the activities. Data were collected in December 2020. The application program for an intentional conversation using Pepper was jointly developed by Tanioka’s team and the Xing Company, allowing Pepper’s words and head movements to be remotely controlled. The analysis of the results revealed four development issues, namely, (1) accurate sensing behavior for “listening” to voices appropriately and accurately interacting with subjects; (2) inefficiency in “listening” and “gaze” activities; (3) fidelity of behavioral responses; and (4) deficiency in natural language processing AI development, i.e., the ability to respond actively to situations that were not pre-programmed by the developer. Conversational engagements between the Pepper robot and patients with dementia illustrated a practical usage of technologies with artificial intelligence and natural language processing. The development issues found in this study require reconciliation in order to enhance the potential for healthcare robot engagement in compassionate communication in the care of older adults with dementia.
Working Hours, Job Burnout, and Subjective Well-Being of Hospital Administrators: An Empirical Study Based on China’s Tertiary Public Hospitals
Authors: Jia Zhihui , Wen Xiaotong , Lin Xiaohui , Lin Yixiang , Li Xuyang , Li Guoqing , Yuan Zhaokang
Published: April 2021

(1) Purpose: To analyze the role of job burnout in connection with working hours and subjective well-being (SWB) among hospital administrators in China’s tertiary public hospitals. (2) Methods: A multi-stage, stratified, cluster random sampling method was used to select 443 hospital administrators in six tertiary public hospitals for study. The data were collected and analyzed using the working hours measuring scale, Maslach burnout, and the subjective well-being schedule. Pearson correlation, structural equation model, and bootstrap tests were conducted to examine the association between job burnout, working hours, and SWB. (3) Results: Among the 443 respondents, 330 worked more than 8 h per day on average (76.2%), 81 had the longest continuous working time more than 16 h (18.7%), and 362 worked overtime on weekends (82.2%). The prevalence of job burnout in hospital administrators was 62.8%, among which, 59.8% have mild burnout and 3.00% have severe burnout. In the dimension of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal achievement, the proportion of people in high burnout was 21.0% (91/433), 15.0% (65/433), and 45.3% (196/433), respectively. Job burnout has a mediating effect between working hours and SWB, which accounted for 95.5% of the total effect. (4) Conclusion: Plagued by long working hours and severe job burnout, the hospital administrators in China’s tertiary public hospitals may have low SWB. Working hours have a negative direct impact on job burnout and SWB, and an indirect impact on SWB through job burnout as a mediator. Targeted strategies should be taken to adjust working hours to promote the physical and mental health of hospital administrators.
SARS-CoV-2 Seroprevalence in Healthcare Workers in Germany: A Follow-Up Study
Authors: Korth Johannes , Wilde Benjamin , Dolff Sebastian , Frisch Jasmin , Jahn Michael , Krawczyk Adalbert , Trilling Mirko , Schipper Leonie , Cordes Sebastian , Ross Birgit , Lindemann Monika , Kribben Andreas , Dittmer Ulf , Witzke Oliver , Herrmann Anke , Anastasiou Olympia Evdoxia
Published: April 2021

SARS-CoV-2 is a worldwide challenge for the medical sector. Healthcare workers (HCW) are a cohort vulnerable to SARS-CoV-2 infection due to frequent and close contact with COVID-19 patients. However, they are also well trained and equipped with protective gear. The SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody status was assessed at three different time points in 450 HCW of the University Hospital Essen in Germany. HCW were stratified according to contact frequencies with COVID-19 patients in (I) a high-risk group with daily contacts with known COVID-19 patients (n = 338), (II) an intermediate-risk group with daily contacts with non-COVID-19 patients (n = 78), and (III) a low-risk group without patient contacts (n = 34). The overall seroprevalence increased from 2.2% in March–May to 4.0% in June–July to 5.1% in October–December. The SARS-CoV-2 IgG detection rate was not significantly different between the high-risk group (1.8%; 3.8%; 5.5%), the intermediate-risk group (5.1%; 6.3%; 6.1%), and the low-risk group (0%, 0%, 0%). The overall SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence remained low in HCW in western Germany one year after the outbreak of COVID-19 in Germany, and hygiene standards seemed to be effective in preventing patient-to-staff virus transmission.
Lactobacillus plantarum ATG-K2 and ATG-K6 Ameliorates High-Fat with High-Fructose Induced Intestinal Inflammation
Authors: Park Miey , Park Eun-Jung , Kim So-Hyeun , Lee Hae-Jeung
Published: April 2021

Obesity has become a worldwide health problem, and many significant inflammatory markers have been associated with the risk of side effects of obesity and obesity-related diseases. After a normal diet or high-fat diet with high-fructose water (HFHF) for 8 weeks, male Wistar rats were divided randomly into four experimental groups according to body weight. Next, for 8 weeks, a normal diet, HFHF diet, and HFHF diet with L. plantarum strains ATG-K2 or ATG-K6 were administered orally. Compared to the control group, the HFHF diet group showed significantly increased visceral fat, epididymal fat, and liver weight. The mRNA and protein expression levels of FAS and SREBP-1c were higher in the HFHF diet group than in the HFHF diet with L. plantarum strains ATG-K2 and ATG-K6. The HFHF diet with L. plantarum strain ATG-K2 showed significantly decreased inflammatory cytokine expression in the serum and small intestine compared to the HFHF diet group. Furthermore, histological morphology showed minor cell injury, less severe infiltration, and longer villi height in the small intestine ileum of the HFHF diet with L. plantarum strains groups than in the HFHF diet group. These results suggest that L. plantarum strains K2 and K6 may help reduce intestinal inflammation and could be used as treatment alternatives for intestinal inflammatory reactions and obesity.
Immunology and Immunotherapeutic Approaches for Advanced Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Hah Yoon-Soo , Koo Kyo-Chul
Published: April 2021

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is a malignant tumor associated with various tumor microenvironments (TMEs). The immune system is activated by the development of cancer and drives T cell anti-tumor response. CD8 T cells are known to improve clinical outcomes and sensitivity to immunotherapy, and play a crucial role against tumors. In contrast, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) suppress immunity against malignancy and lead to tumor progression. TAMs are promoted from damaged TMEs and mount proinflammatory responses to pathogens. Initial immunotherapy consists of interferon-α and interleukin-2. However, response to such therapy is unclear in most patients, and it is associated with high levels of toxicity. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), which up-regulate immune responses by blocking the programed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) receptor, the ligand of PD-1, or cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 T cells, have led to a new era of immunotherapy. Furthermore, combination strategies with ICIs have proven effective through several randomized controlled trials. We expect the next generation of immunotherapy to lead to better outcomes based on ongoing trials and inspire new therapeutic strategies.
Mitochondrial Mutations and Genetic Factors Determining NAFLD Risk
Authors: Dabravolski Siarhei A. , Bezsonov Evgeny E. , Baig Mirza S. , Popkova Tatyana V. , Nedosugova Ludmila V. , Starodubova Antonina V. , Orekhov Alexander N.
Published: April 2021

NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) is a widespread liver disease that is often linked with other life-threatening ailments (metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis, obesity, and others) and canprogress to more severe forms, such as NASH (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis), cirrhosis, and HCC (hepatocellular carcinoma). In this review, we summarized and analyzed data about single nucleotide polymorphism sites, identified in genes related to NAFLD development and progression. Additionally, the causative role of mitochondrial mutations and mitophagy malfunctions in NAFLD is discussed. The role of mitochondria-related metabolites of the urea cycle as a new non-invasive NAFLD biomarker is discussed. While mitochondria DNA mutations and SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) canbe used as effective diagnostic markers and target for treatments, age and ethnic specificity should be taken into account.
Biallelic Variants in KIF17 Associated with Microphthalmia and Coloboma Spectrum
Authors: Riva Antonella , Gambadauro Antonella , Dipasquale Valeria , Casto Celeste , Ceravolo Maria Domenica , Accogli Andrea , Scala Marcello , Ceravolo Giorgia , Iacomino Michele , Zara Federico , Striano Pasquale , Cuppari Caterina , Di Rosa Gabriella , Cutrupi Maria Concetta , Salpietro Vincenzo , Chimenz Roberto
Published: April 2021

Microphthalmia, anophthalmia, and coloboma (MAC) are a group of congenital eye anomalies that can affect one or both eyes. Patients can present one or a combination of these ocular abnormalities in the so called “MAC spectrum”. The KIF17 gene encodes the kinesin-like protein Kif17, a microtubule-based, ATP-dependent, motor protein that is pivotal for outer segment development and disc morphogenesis in different animal models, including mice and zebrafish. In this report, we describe a Sicilian family with two siblings affected with congenital coloboma, microphthalmia, and a mild delay of motor developmental milestones. Genomic DNA from the siblings and their unaffected parents was sequenced with a clinical exome that revealed compound heterozygous variants in the KIF17 gene (NM_020816.4: c.1255C > T (p.Arg419Trp); c.2554C > T (p.Arg852Cys)) segregating with the MAC spectrum phenotype of the two affected siblings. Variants were inherited from the healthy mother and father, are present at a very low-frequency in genomic population databases, and are predicted to be deleterious in silico. Our report indicates the potential co-segregation of these biallelic KIF17 variants with microphthalmia and coloboma, highlighting a potential conserved role of this gene in eye development across different species.
A Novel Approach to Improve Newborn Screening for Congenital Hypothyroidism by Integrating Covariate-Adjusted Results of Different Tests into CLIR Customized Interpretive Tools
Authors: Rowe Alexander D. , Stoway Stephanie D. , Åhlman Henrik , Arora Vaneet , Caggana Michele , Fornari Anna , Hagar Arthur , Hall Patricia L. , Marquardt Gregg C. , Miller Bobby J. , Nixon Christopher , Norgan Andrew P. , Orsini Joseph J. , Pettersen Rolf D. , Piazza Amy L. , Schubauer Neil R. , Smith Amy C. , Tang Hao , Tavakoli Norma P. , Wei Sainan , Zetterström Rolf H. , Currier Robert J. , Mørkrid Lars , Rinaldo Piero
Published: April 2021

Newborn screening for congenital hypothyroidism remains challenging decades after broad implementation worldwide. Testing protocols are not uniform in terms of targets (TSH and/or T4) and protocols (parallel vs. sequential testing; one or two specimen collection times), and specificity (with or without collection of a second specimen) is overall poor. The purpose of this retrospective study is to investigate the potential impact of multivariate pattern recognition software (CLIR) to improve the post-analytical interpretation of screening results. Seven programs contributed reference data (N = 1,970,536) and two sets of true (TP, N = 1369 combined) and false (FP, N = 15,201) positive cases for validation and verification purposes, respectively. Data were adjusted for age at collection, birth weight, and location using polynomial regression models of the fifth degree to create three-dimensional regression surfaces. Customized Single Condition Tools and Dual Scatter Plots were created using CLIR to optimize the differential diagnosis between TP and FP cases in the validation set. Verification testing correctly identified 446/454 (98%) of the TP cases, and could have prevented 1931/5447 (35%) of the FP cases, with variable impact among locations (range 4% to 50%). CLIR tools either as made here or preferably standardized to the recommended uniform screening panel could improve performance of newborn screening for congenital hypothyroidism.
Combining Network Coding and Retransmission Techniques to Improve the Communication Reliability of Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Laurindo Suelen , Moraes Ricardo , Montez Carlos , Vasques Francisco
Published: April 2021

This paper addresses the use of network coding algorithms combined with adequate retransmission techniques to improve the communication reliability of Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN). Basically, we assess the recently proposed Optimized Relay Selection Technique (ORST) operating together with four different retransmission techniques, three of them applying network coding algorithms. The target of this assessment is to analyze the impact upon the communication reliability from each of the proposed retransmission techniques for WSN applications. In addition, this paper presents an extensive state-of-the-art study in what concerns the use of network coding techniques in the WSN context. The initial assumption of this research work was that the ORST operating together network coding would improve the communication reliability of WNS. However, the simulation assessment highlighted that, when using the ORST technique, retransmission without network coding is the better solution.
A Comprehensive Survey on Machine Learning Techniques for Android Malware Detection
Authors: Kouliaridis Vasileios , Kambourakis Georgios
Published: April 2021

Year after year, mobile malware attacks grow in both sophistication and diffusion. As the open source Android platform continues to dominate the market, malware writers consider it as their preferred target. Almost strictly, state-of-the-art mobile malware detection solutions in the literature capitalize on machine learning to detect pieces of malware. Nevertheless, our findings clearly indicate that the majority of existing works utilize different metrics and models and employ diverse datasets and classification features stemming from disparate analysis techniques, i.e., static, dynamic, or hybrid. This complicates the cross-comparison of the various proposed detection schemes and may also raise doubts about the derived results. To address this problem, spanning a period of the last seven years, this work attempts to schematize the so far ML-powered malware detection approaches and techniques by organizing them under four axes, namely, the age of the selected dataset, the analysis type used, the employed ML techniques, and the chosen performance metrics. Moreover, based on these axes, we introduce a converging scheme which can guide future Android malware detection techniques and provide a solid baseline to machine learning practices in this field.
Advance in Molecular Thermodynamics
Authors: Hirata Fumio
Published: April 2021

“Thermodynamics” is one of the oldest but the most fundamental concepts of modern science and technology [...]
The Efficacy and Safety of Laparoscopy for Blunt Abdominal Trauma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ki Young-Jun , Jo Young-Goun , Park Yun-Chul , Kang Wu-Seong
Published: April 2021

The efficacy and safety of laparoscopy for blunt trauma remain controversial. This systemic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the usefulness of laparoscopy in blunt trauma. The PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were searched up to 23 February 2021. Meta-analyses were performed using odds ratios (ORs), standardized mean differences (SMDs), and overall proportions. Overall, 19 studies with a total of 1520 patients were included. All patients were hemodynamically stable. In the laparoscopy group, meta-analysis showed lesser blood loss (SMD −0.28, 95% confidence interval (CI) −0.51 to −0.05, I2 = 62%) and shorter hospital stay (SMD −0.67, 95% CI −0.90 to −0.43, I2 = 47%) compared with the laparotomy group. Pooled prevalence of missed injury (0.003 (95% CI 0 to 0.023), I2 = 0%), nontherapeutic laparotomy (0.004 (95% CI 0.001 to 0.026), I2 = 0%), and mortality (0.021 (95% CI 0.010 to 0.043), I2 = 0%) were very low in blunt trauma. In subgroup analysis, recently published studies (2011–present) showed lesser conversion rate (0.115 (95% CI 0.067 to 0.190) vs. 0.391 (95% CI 0.247 to 0.556), test for subgroup difference: p < 0.01). This meta-analysis suggests that laparoscopy is a safe and feasible option in hemodynamic stable patients with blunt abdominal trauma.
Work Envelope Expansion and Parametric Optimization in WAAM with Relative Density and Surface Aspect as Quality Constraints: The Case of Al5Mg Thin Walls with Active Cooling
Authors: da Silva Leandro João , Teixeira Felipe Ribeiro , Araújo Douglas Bezerra , Reis Ruham Pablo , Scotti Américo
Published: April 2021

The successful and efficient production of parts with specific features by Wire + Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) strongly depends on the selection of proper and typically interrelated deposition parameters. This task might be particularly challenging in the making of thin walls, which might be highly impacted by processing conditions and heat accumulation. In this context, this study aims at expanding the work envelope and optimizing the parametric conditions in WAAM with relative density and surface aspects of the preforms as quality constraints. The experimental approach was based on the deposition of thin Al5Mg walls by the CMT process on its standard welding setup and with an active cooling technique to enhance the deposition robustness. Internal voids were estimated by Archimedes’ method. The surface quality of the walls was assessed through the visual aspect and the surface waviness by cross-section analysis. All the conditions presented relative density higher than 98%. The upgrade of the standard welding hardware to WAAM purposes through the addition of a supplementary shielding gas nozzle to the torch and the intensity of the heat sinking from the part significantly expanded the process work envelope, with its applicability being successfully demonstrated with multi-objective optimization. To sum up, a decision-making procedure is presented towards achieving intended preform quality.
Numerical Simulation and Hydrodynamic Performance Predicting of 2 Two-Dimensional Hydrofoils in Tandem Configuration
Authors: Shang Yuchen , Horrillo Juan J.
Published: April 2021

In this study we investigated the performance of NACA 0012 hydrofoils aligned in tandem using parametric method and Neural Networks. We use the 2D viscous numerical model (STAR-CCM+) to simulate the hydrofoil system. To validate the numerical model, we modeled a single NACA 0012 configuration and compared it to experimental results. Results are found in concordance with the published experimental results. Then two NACA 0012 hydrofoils in tandem configuration were studied in relation to 788 combinations of the following parameters: spacing between two hydrofoils, angle of attack (AOA) of upstream hydrofoil and AOA of downstream hydrofoil. The effects exerted by these three parameters on the hydrodynamic coefficients Lift coefficient (CL), Drag Coefficient (CD) and Lift-Drag Ratio (LDR), are consistent with the behavior of the system. To establish a control system for the hydrofoil craft, a timely analysis of the hydrodynamic system is needed due to the computational resource constraints, analysis of a large combination and time consuming of the three parameters established. To provide a broader and faster way to predict the hydrodynamic performance of two hydrofoils in tandem configuration, an optimal artificial neural network (ANN) was trained using the large combination of three parameters generated from the numerical simulations. Regression analysis of the output of ANN was performed, and the results are consistent with numerical simulation with a correlation coefficient greater than 99.99%. The optimized spacing of 6.6c are suggested where the system has the lowest CD while obtaining the highest CL and LDR. The formula of the ANN was then presented, providing a reliable predicting method of hydrofoils in tandem configuration.
Predicting in-Hospital Mortality of Patients with COVID-19 Using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Tezza Fabiana , Lorenzoni Giulia , Azzolina Danila , Barbar Sofia , Leone Lucia Anna Carmela , Gregori Dario
Published: April 2021

The present work aims to identify the predictors of COVID-19 in-hospital mortality testing a set of Machine Learning Techniques (MLTs), comparing their ability to predict the outcome of interest. The model with the best performance will be used to identify in-hospital mortality predictors and to build an in-hospital mortality prediction tool. The study involved patients with COVID-19, proved by PCR test, admitted to the “Ospedali Riuniti Padova Sud” COVID-19 referral center in the Veneto region, Italy. The algorithms considered were the Recursive Partition Tree (RPART), the Support Vector Machine (SVM), the Gradient Boosting Machine (GBM), and Random Forest. The resampled performances were reported for each MLT, considering the sensitivity, specificity, and the Receiving Operative Characteristic (ROC) curve measures. The study enrolled 341 patients. The median age was 74 years, and the male gender was the most prevalent. The Random Forest algorithm outperformed the other MLTs in predicting in-hospital mortality, with a ROC of 0.84 (95% C.I. 0.78–0.9). Age, together with vital signs (oxygen saturation and the quick SOFA) and lab parameters (creatinine, AST, lymphocytes, platelets, and hemoglobin), were found to be the strongest predictors of in-hospital mortality. The present work provides insights for the prediction of in-hospital mortality of COVID-19 patients using a machine-learning algorithm.
Long-Term Results of a Standard Algorithm for Intravenous Port Implantation
Authors: Wu Ching-Feng , Fu Jui-Ying , Wen Chi-Tsung , Chiu Chien-Hung , Hsieh Ming-Ju , Liu Yun-Hen , Liu Hui-Ping , Wu Ching-Yang
Published: April 2021

Intravenous ports serve as vascular access and are indispensable in cancer treatment. Most studies are not based on a systematic and standardized approach. Hence, the aim of this study was to demonstrate long-term results of port implantation following a standard algorithm. A total of 2950 patients who underwent intravenous port implantation between March 2012 and December 2018 were included. Data of patients managed following a standard algorithm were analyzed for safety and long-term outcomes. The cephalic vein was the predominant choice of entry vessel. In female patients, wire assistance without use of puncture sheath was less likely and echo-guided puncture via internal jugular vein (IJV) with use of puncture sheath was more likely to be performed, compared to male patients (p < 0.0001). The procedure-related complication rate was 0.07%, and no pneumothorax, hematoma, catheter kinking, catheter fracture, or pocket erosion was reported. Catheter implantations by echo-guided puncture via IJV notably declined from 4.67% to 0.99% (p = 0.027). Mean operative time gradually declined from 37.88 min in 2012 to 23.20 min in 2018. The proposed standard algorithm for port implantation reduced the need for IJV echo-guided approach and eliminated procedure-related catastrophic complications. In addition, it shortened operative time and demonstrated good functional results.
The Promise of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights (and Brexit) on the Implementation of Economic and Social Rights among EU Member States
Authors: Pillay Nirmala
Published: April 2021

This article examines the extent to which the inclusion of the European Union (EU) Charter of Fundamental Rights in the Treaty of Lisbon, which gives legal force to socio-economic rights as well as civil and political rights, will succeed in helping EU member states meet international treaty obligations to implement socio-economic rights. Will the EU’s renewed commitment to developing the social sphere, post-Brexit, be more successful and will British citizens lose out on so-cio-economic rights in the long term if the EU succeeds in creating a better social or public dimension? Member states of the EU that have ratified the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) have obligations to progressively realise economic, social and cultural (ESC) rights. Progress on this has been slow and potentially made more difficult by the economic direction adopted by the EU since the 1980s. Although the EU, from the beginning, saw itself as a “social market” it struggled to embed the “social” to the same extent that it embedded the “market”. Critics argue that the economic policies of the EU and key judgements of the European Court of Justice (ECJ) successfully dis-embedded the market from its social context. Additionally, the regulatory regime of the EU developed in a direction that limited the capacity of nation states to ameliorate the consequences of market-led policies for the least advantaged. However, the Charter of Rights, which places socio-economic rights on an equal footing with civil and political rights, is a novel and bold initiative. It has stimulated debate on whether the Charter could rebalance the EU’s economic agenda by paying attention to the social consequences of predominantly market-led policies. This paper examines the potential impact of the EU Charter, in the context of member states international human rights obligations, to create an environment where member states of the EU have fewer obstacles to the “progressive realization” of ESC rights.
Dynamic Interplay between Copper Toxicity and Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Tassone Giusy , Kola Arian , Valensin Daniela , Pozzi Cecilia
Published: April 2021

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder, affecting millions of people worldwide, a number expected to exponentially increase in the future since no effective treatments are available so far. AD is characterized by severe cognitive dysfunctions associated with neuronal loss and connection disruption, mainly occurring in specific brain areas such as the hippocampus, cerebral cortex, and amygdala, compromising memory, language, reasoning, and social behavior. Proteomics and redox proteomics are powerful techniques used to identify altered proteins and pathways in AD, providing relevant insights on cellular pathways altered in the disease and defining novel targets exploitable for drug development. Here, we review the main results achieved by both -omics techniques, focusing on the changes occurring in AD mitochondria under oxidative stress and upon copper exposure. Relevant information arises by the comparative analysis of these results, evidencing alterations of common mitochondrial proteins, metabolic cycles, and cascades. Our analysis leads to three shared mitochondrial proteins, playing key roles in metabolism, ATP generation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. Their potential as targets for development of innovative AD treatments is thus suggested. Despite the relevant efforts, no effective drugs against AD have been reported so far; nonetheless, various compounds targeting mitochondria have been proposed and investigated, reporting promising results.
Reflective Quasi-Continuous Metasurface with Continuous Phase Control for Light Focusing
Authors: Chen Long , Shao Zhenglong , Liu Jia , Tang Dongliang
Published: April 2021

Benefitting from the arbitrary and flexible light modulation, metasurface has attracted extensive attention and been demonstrated in different applications. However, most reported metasurface-based devices were normally composed of discrete micro or nano structures, therefore the discretization precision limited the performance of the device, including the focusing efficiency, stray light suppression, and broadband performance. In this work, an all-metallic reflective metasurface consisting of numerous quasi-continuous nanostructures is proposed to realize high-efficiency and broadband focusing. The constructed quasi-continuous metasurface (QCMS) is then verified numerically through electromagnetic simulation, and the numerical results show a higher focusing efficiency and a better stray light suppression effect, compared to a binary-phase-based metalens. Through the same design strategy, a QCMS with the ability to overcome the diffraction limit can also be constructed, and a focal spot with the size of 0.8 times the diffraction limit can be achieved. We expect that this quasi-continuous structure could be utilized to construct other high-performance devices that require continuous phase controls, such as the beam deflector, orbital angle momentum generator, and self-accelerating beam generator.
Eco-Friendly Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells Based on Water-Electrolytes and Chlorophyll
Authors: Kim Ji-Hye , Park Sung-Yoon , Lim Dong-Hyuk , Lim So-Young , Choi Jonghoon , Koo Hyung-Jun
Published: April 2021

Organic solvents used for electrolytes of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) are generally not only toxic and explosive but also prone to leakage due to volatility and low surface tension. The representative dyes of DSSCs are ruthenium-complex molecules, which are expensive and require a complicated synthesis process. In this paper, the eco-friendly DSSCs were presented based on water-based electrolytes and a commercially available organic dye. The effect of aging time after the device fabrication and the electrolyte composition on the photovoltaic performance of the eco-friendly DSSCs were investigated. Plasma treatment of TiO2 was adopted to improve the dye adsorption as well as the wettability of the water-based electrolytes on TiO2. It turned out that the plasma treatment was an effective way of improving the photovoltaic performance of the eco-friendly DSSCs by increasing the efficiency by 3.4 times. For more eco-friendly DSSCs, the organic-synthetic dye was replaced by chlorophyll extracted from spinach. With the plasma treatment, the efficiency of the eco-friendly DSSCs based on water-electrolytes and chlorophyll was comparable to those of the previously reported chlorophyll-based DSSCs with non-aqueous electrolytes.
A Novel Zirconia-Based Composite Presents an Aging Resistant Material for Narrow-Diameter Ceramic Implants
Authors: Burkhardt Felix , Harlass Markus , Adolfsson Erik , Vach Kirstin , Spies Benedikt Christopher , Kohal Ralf-Joachim
Published: April 2021

A novel ceria-stabilized zirconia-alumina-aluminate composite (Ce-TZP-comp) that is not prone to aging presents a potential alternative to yttrium-stabilized zirconia for ceramic oral implants. The objective of this study was to evaluate the long-term stability of a one-piece narrow-diameter implant made of Ce-TZP-comp. Implant prototypes with a narrow (3.4 mm) and regular (4.0 mm) diameter were embedded according to ISO 14801, and subgroups (n = 8) were subsequently exposed to dynamic loading (107 cycles, 98N) and/or hydrothermal treatment (aging, 85 °C). Loading/aging was only applied as a combined protocol for the 4.0 mm diameter implants. One subgroup of each diameter remained untreated. One sample was cross-sectioned from each subgroup and evaluated with a scanning electron microscope for phase-transformation of the lattice. Finally, the remaining samples were loaded to fracture. A multivariate linear regression model was applied for statistical analyses (significance at p < 0.05). All samples withstood the different loading/aging protocols and no transformation propagation was observed. The narrow diameter implants showed the lowest fracture load after combined loading/aging (628 ± 56 N; p < 0.01), whereas all other subgroups exhibited no significantly reduced fracture resistance (between 762 ± 62 and 806 ± 73 N; p > 0.05). Therefore, fracture load values of Ce-TZP-comp implants suggest a reliable intraoral clinical application in the anterior jaw regions.
Study of the Hydrolytic Stability of Fine-Grained Ceramics Based on Y2.5Nd0.5Al5O12 Oxide with a Garnet Structure under Hydrothermal Conditions
Authors: Alekseeva Liudmila , Nokhrin Aleksey , Boldin Maksim , Lantsev Eugeniy , Murashov Artem , Orlova Albina , Chuvil’deev Vladimir
Published: April 2021

The hydrolytic stability of ceramics based on Y2.5Nd0.5Al5O12 oxide with a garnet structure obtained by the spark plasma sintering (SPS) method has been studied. The tests were carried out in distilled water under hydrothermal conditions in an autoclave and, for comparison, in a static mode at room temperature. The mechanism of leaching of Y and Nd from the ceramics was investigated. It has been shown that at “low” temperatures (25 and 100 °C), the destruction of pores occured, and the intensity of the leaching process was limited by the diffusion of ions from the inner part of the sample to the surface. At “high” test temperatures (200 and 300 °C), intense destruction of the ceramic grain boundaries was observed. It was assumed that the accelerated leaching of neodymium is due to the formation of grain-boundary segregations of Nd3+ in sintered ceramics.
Strength and Durability Characteristics of Cement Composites with Recycled Water and Blast Furnace Slag Aggregate
Authors: Choi Se-Jin , Bae Sung-Ho , Lee Jae-In , Kim Ji-Hwan
Published: April 2021

Recently, interest in sustainable development has been increased. In this regard, efforts have been made to prevent environmental pollution, and research on the recycling of construction industry byproducts has been actively conducted in the construction industry. In South Korea, about 20 million tons of waste wash water from the ready-mixed concrete production process are generated, and some of them are recycled using recycling facilities in a ready-mixed concrete plant, but a significant portion of them is discharged or landfilled without permission, causing environmental problems. To increase the recycling rate of steel slag and reduce environmental pollution in the construction industry, we simultaneously applied blast furnace slag fine aggregate (BSFA) and recycled water (RW) to cement mortar. In this study, to examine the feasibility of RW and BSFA, we evaluated the fluidity, compressive strength, tensile strength, drying shrinkage, carbonation depth, and chloride penetration resistance of cement mortar using RW and BSFA. From the test results, the 28-day compressive strengths of all samples using RW and BSFA were higher than that of the control sample. In the case of samples using RW, as the BSFA replacement ratio was increased, the carbonation depth of the samples decreased. Therefore, when RW and BSFA are used properly, the mechanical properties of cement mortar, carbonation resistance, and chloride ion penetration resistance are expected to be effectively improved.
Self-Cleaning Coatings and Surfaces of Modern Building Materials for the Removal of Some Air Pollutants
Authors: Rabajczyk Anna , Zielecka Maria , Klapsa Wojciech , Dziechciarz Anna
Published: April 2021

Air quality is one of the most important problems of the modern world, as it determines human health and changes occurring in other elements of nature, including climate change. For this reason, actions are taken to reduce the amount of harmful substances in the air. One such action is the use of building materials with special properties achieved by the application of self-cleaning coatings and photocatalytic additives. This article presents achievements in the field of additives and modifiers for building materials, whose task is to improve air quality. Concrete, cement, paints, and facade coatings modified based on the achievements of nanotechnology have been analyzed in terms of new properties and the possibility of their application in the area of modern environmental requirements. Both positive aspects and doubts were described in the scope of the effective reduction of the amount of gases such as VOC, NOx, dust and microorganisms.
Tacky-Free Polyurethanes Pressure-Sensitive Adhesives by Molecular-Weight and HDI Trimer Design
Authors: Bae Ji-Hong , Won Jong Chan , Lim Won Bin , Kim Byeong Joo , Lee Ju Hong , Min Jin Gyu , Seo Min Ji , Mo Young Hyun , Huh PilHo
Published: April 2021

Polyurethane pressure-sensitive adhesives (PU-PSAs) with satisfactory tack, cohesion, and removability were newly developed through the synthetic process by reacting methylene diisocyanate, poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG), and a 1,4-butanediol chain extender based on the different HDI/HDI trimer ratios. The sticking properties of PU-PSAs depended on both the HDI/HDI trimer ratio and crosslinking-agent composition in the formulation. The molecular weight (MW) dependence of adhesion in PU-PSA was observed in the range of 1000 < Mn < 3000, suggesting that the increase in MW limits the pressure-sensitive adhesion of these samples. The differences in the crosslinking-density significantly affected the cohesion, adhesion, and tack in PU-PSA. The formulation of 50 wt.% 600PEG and 50 wt.% crosslinking-agent and an HDI/HDI trimer ratio of 1.0 led to the optimal balance between the adhesion and cohesion properties owing to the sufficient tack, high 180-peel strength, and good cohesion.
Dentin-Derived-Barrier Membrane in Guided Bone Regeneration: A Case Report
Authors: Ku Jeong-Kui , Um In-Woong , Jun Mi-Kyoung , Kim Il-hyung
Published: April 2021

An autogenous, demineralized, dentin matrix is a well-known osteo-inductive bone substitute that is mostly composed of type I collagen and is widely used in implant dentistry. This single case report describes a successful outcome in guided bone regeneration and dental implantation with a novel human-derived collagen membrane. The authors fabricated a dentin-derived-barrier membrane from a block-type autogenous demineralized dentin matrix to overcome the mechanical instability of the collagen membrane. The dentin-derived-barrier acted as an osteo-inductive collagen membrane with mechanical and clot stabilities, and it replaced the osteo-genetic function of the periosteum. Further research involving large numbers of patients should be conducted to evaluate bone forming capacity in comparison with other collagen membranes.
Mechanical and Electrical Performance of Flexible Polymer Film Designed for a Textile Electrically-Conductive Path
Authors: Tabaczyńska Agnieszka , Dąbrowska Anna , Masłowski Marcin , Strąkowska Anna
Published: April 2021

Electro-conductive paths that are mechanically resistant and stable during simulated aging cycles are promising, in relation to the non-invasive application in e-textiles in our everyday surroundings. In the paper, an analysis of the influence of electro-conductive filler, as well as ionic liquid on surface resistance is provided. Authors proved that depending on the tested variant, obtained surface resistance may vary from 50 kΩ (when 50 phr of Ag and [bmim][PF6] ionic liquid applied) to 26 GΩ (when 25 phr of Ag and [bmim][PF6] ionic liquid applied). The samples were also evaluated after simulated aging cycles and the stability of electric properties was confirmed. Moreover, it was proved that the addition of ionic liquids reduced the resistance of vulcanizates, while no significant influence of the extrusion process on conductivity was observed.