bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Original Research: Nurses' Perspectives on Caring for Patients with Do-Not-Resuscitate Orders
Authors: Kelly Patricia A. , Baker Kathy A. , Hodges Karen M. , Vuong Ellen Y. , Lee Joyce C. , Lockwood Suzy W.
Published: December 2020

Background:

Confusion about what a do-not-resuscitate (DNR) order means, including its misinterpretation as “do not treat,” has been extensively documented in the literature. Yet there is a paucity of research concerning nurses' perspectives on DNR orders.

Purpose and design:

This mixed-methods study was designed to explore nurses' perspectives on the meaning and interpretation of DNR orders in relation to caring for hospitalized adults with such orders.

Methods:

Direct care nurses on three units in a large urban hospital were asked to respond online to a case study by indicating how they would prioritize care based on the patient's DNR designation. These nurses were then invited to participate in open-ended interviews with a nurse researcher. Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed, and analyzed.

Findings:

A total of 35 nurses responded to the case study survey. The majority chose to prioritize palliative care, despite no indication that any plan of care was in place. Thirteen nurses also completed a one-on-one interview. Analysis of interview data revealed this overarching theme: varying interpretations of DNR orders among nurses were common, resulting in unintended consequences. Participants also reported perceived variances among health care team members, patients, and family members. Such misinterpretations resulted in shifts in care, varying responses to deteriorating status, tension, and differences in role expectations for health care team members.

Conclusions:

Nurses have opportunities to address misconceptions about care for patients with DNR orders through practice, education, advocacy and policy, and research.
Increased Prevalence of Upper and Lower Respiratory Disease in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom US Veterans
Authors: Tam Kenric , Lee Jivianne T.
Published: December 2020

Objective:

Veterans of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF) were exposed to high levels of pollutants resulting in increased upper and lower respiratory symptoms and morbidity. The purpose of this study is to determine the physician diagnosed prevalence of upper and lower respiratory disease in OEF/OIF veterans.

Methods:

We queried the Veterans Health Administration Support Service Center database to identify veterans in the Desert Pacific Healthcare Network with International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision diagnoses related to upper respiratory and lower respiratory tract (URT and LRT) diseases and symptoms. Over 100,000 unique veterans were identified.

Results:

OEF/OIF veterans had increased prevalence of both sinonasal disease and LRT pathology compared with non-OEF/OIF veterans. In 2016, 8.79% of OEF/OIF veterans demonstrated lower respiratory disease, which was 3.4 times greater than non-OEF/OIF veterans (P < 0.0001). Similarly, upper respiratory disease was 4.8 times more prevalent in OEF/OIF veterans, with 19.28% diagnosed compared with 3.95% of non-OEF/OIF veterans (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion:

This is the first database study that investigates the prevalence of upper airway disease in OEF/OIF veterans. Veterans serving in the post-9/11 era in Afghanistan and Iraq have a significantly increased prevalence of both lower and upper respiratory disease.
Cochlear Implantation in Sporadic Vestibular Schwannoma and Other Retrocochlear Pathology: A Case Series
Authors: Patel Evan J. , Deep Nicholas L. , Friedmann David R. , Jethanamest Daniel , McMenomey Sean O. , Roland John Thomas
Published: December 2020

Objective:

To describe outcomes with cochlear implantation (CI) for rehabilitation of hearing loss in patients with sporadic vestibular schwannomas (VS) and other retrocochlear pathologies.

Study Design:

Retrospective review.

Setting:

Tertiary-care center.

Patients:

Twenty three cases in 19 patients (53% men, mean age 55.8 yr) with non-neurofibromatosis type 2 related retrocochlear pathology.

Interventions:

Unilateral or bilateral CI.

Main Outcome Measures:

Word recognition score, device usage.

Results:

Etiology of deafness included sporadic VS (n = 9, 39%), radiation after head and neck or central nervous system (CNS) malignancy (n = 8, 35%), superficial siderosis (n = 3, 13%), neurosarcoidosis (n = 2, 9%), and pontine stroke (n = 1, 4%). Mean follow-up duration was 2.3 years (standard deviation [SD] 3.0; range, 0.2–9.4). Auditory perception was achieved in 20 out of 22 patients (91%) who have been activated. Mean WRS in patients with sporadic VS was 18% (SD 20; range, 0–44). Mean WRS in patients with non-VS retrocochlear pathology was 55% (SD 30; range, 0–94). Data logs showed 7.0 h/d of average use (SD 4.3; range, 0–13).

Conclusions:

Appropriately selected patients with retrocochlear pathology may benefit from CI so long as the patient has a cochlear fluid signal and an intact cochlear nerve. Patients with sporadic VS patients and normal contralateral hearing exhibited guarded outcomes with CI, whereas most patients with non-VS retrocochlear pathologies demonstrated open-set speech understanding scores comparable to or slightly worse than conventional CI candidates. Since variable performance benefit is observed with CI in patients with retrocochlear pathology, counseling is imperative to align patient expectations with realistic outcomes.
Cochlear Implant Outcomes in Neurofibromatosis Type 2: Implications for Management
Authors: Deep Nicholas L. , Patel Evan J. , Shapiro William H. , Waltzman Susan B. , Jethanamest Daniel , McMenomey Sean O. , Roland John Thomas , Friedmann David R.
Published: December 2020

Objective:

To describe our institutional experience with cochlear implantation (CI) for rehabilitation of hearing loss in Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) patients.

Study Design:

Retrospective review between 1989 and 2019.

Setting:

Tertiary-care center.

Patients:

Twenty-four patients (67% female, mean age 45.6years) with NF2. Management of their ipsilateral vestibular schwannoma included microsurgery (n=12), stereotactic radiation (n=5), and observation (n=7).

Interventions:

Cochlear implantation.

Main Outcome Measures:

Ability to obtain open-set speech, daily device usage and long-term device benefit.

Results:

All patients achieved some degree of sound awareness with CI. Nineteen patients (79%) achieved open-set speech understanding with a mean word-recognition score of 43% (range 0-88%). Patients with tumors 1.5 cm or less demonstrated the better speech understanding, without significant differences among treatment modalities. For tumors greater than 1.5 cm, patients who underwent microsurgery had a lower rate of open-set speech understanding compared to those treated with radiation or observation. Regular daily device use in 83% of patients was found. Long-term use (>10years) was observed in several patients, though some ultimately required reimplantation with an auditory brainstem implant due to progressive tumor growth. Mean follow-up duration was 4.1 years (range 0.4-15).

Conclusions:

Cochlear implantation can be an effective treatment for hearing loss in NF2 patients provided the cochlear nerve is intact, regardless of prior management for the ipsilateral tumor. The degree of benefit varies and is influenced by tumor size. Management strategies that preserve the cochlear nerve maximize the interval during which a CI could be of benefit to NF2 patients.
Shear-wave elastography in thyroid ultrasound
Authors: Han Dong Yoon , Sohn Yu-Mee , Seo Mirinae , Yun Seong Jong , Park Won Seo , Jeon Seok Ho , Cho Yong Hyun
Published: December 2020

This study aimed to investigate whether extrathyroidal extension (ETE) and cervical lymph node metastasis (LNM) can be predicted using elasticity parameters of shear-wave elastography (SWE) combined with B-mode ultrasound (US) of papillary thyroid carcinomas (PTCs).

We retrospectively reviewed 111 patients who underwent preoperative SWE evaluation among PTC patients from July 1, 2016 to June 20, 2018. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on the presence or absence of ETE based on pathology reports. Univariate and multivariate analyses of clinical and radiologic features including B-mode US features, US patterns, and SWE parameters were performed. These analyses were repeated in LNM positive and negative groups. The diagnostic performance of SWE parameters were also evaluated.

Of the 111 patients, 33 had ETE, 78 did not have ETE, 44 had LNM, and 67 did not have LNM. A taller-than-wide shape and T3 stage on US were associated with ETE. Female sex, total thyroidectomy, and T3 stage on US were associated with LNM. When B-mode US and SWE were combined, there was no improvement in diagnostic performance.

Combination of SWE and B-mode US findings is not useful for predicting ETE and LNM status in PTC patients.
Biochemical and functional characterization of the SMC holocomplex from Mycobacterium smegmatis
Authors: Pradhan Suchitra , K. Shwetha , Kumari Pratibha , Kumar Ravi
Published: December 2020

Multi-subunit SMC complexes are required to perform essential functions, such as chromosome compaction, segregation and DNA repair, from bacteria to humans. Prokaryotic SMC proteins form complexes with two non-SMC subunits, ScpA and ScpB, to condense the chromosome. The mutants of both scpa and scpb genes in

Bacillus subtilis

have been shown to display characteristic phenotypes such as growth defects and increased frequency of anucleate cells. Here, we studied the function of the Smc-ScpAB complex from

Mycobacterium smegmatis

. We observed no significant growth difference between the scpb null mutant and wild-type

M. smegmatis

under both standard and stress conditions. Furthermore, we characterized the Smc-ScpAB holocomplex from

M. smegmatis

. The MsSMC consists of the dimerization hinge and ATPase head domains connected by long coiled-coils. The MsSMC interacts with two non-SMC proteins, ScpA and ScpB, and the resulting holocomplex binds to different DNA substrates independent of ATP. The Smc-ScpAB complex showed DNA-stimulated ATPase activity in the presence of ssDNA. A cytological profiling assay revealed that upon overexpression the Smc-ScpAB ternary complex compacts the decondensed nucleoid of rifampicin-treated wild-type and null mukb mutant of Escherichia coli in vivo. Together, our study suggests that

M. smegmatis

has a functional Smc-ScpAB complex capable of DNA binding and condensation. Based on our observations, we speculate that the presence of alternative SMCs such as MksB or other SMC homologues might have rescued the scpb mutant phenotype in

M. smegmatis

.
Risk for impaired cardiovascular function nursing diagnosis: Content analysis to evaluate women in jail
Authors: da Silva Gabrielle Pessôa , Lopes Marcos Venícios de Oliveira , Perrelli Jaqueline Galdino Albuquerque , Guedes Tatiane Gomes , Lopes Camila Takáo , Mangueira Suzana de Oliveira , Linhares Francisca Márcia Pereira
Published: December 2020

Objective

To analyze the content of the diagnostic proposal, risk for impaired cardiovascular function, focusing on incarcerated
women.

Methods

A methodological study of nursing diagnosis content validation carried out from December/2018 to June/2019. A sample of 24 judges evaluated the proposed definition and the relevance of the proposed etiological factors of risk for impaired cardiovascular function. To determine the content validity of the etiological factors, the Content Validity Index was calculated and a value of 0.9 was adopted, in addition to the Wilcoxon test.

Results

The diagnostic definition was considered consistent with the diagnostic label. All 18 etiological factors were validated with a Content Validity Index statistically >0.9 and categorized into risk factors, associated conditions, and at‐risk populations.

Conclusion

The definition and 18 etiological factors of risk for impaired cardiovascular function were validated.

Implications for the nursing practice

The study allowed the new proposal for the risk for impaired cardiovascular function nursing diagnosis to be accepted to return to the taxonomy of NANDA International with an expanded and more consistent structure. The return of the referred nursing diagnosis to the taxonomy favors the nurse's diagnostic reasoning and the documentation of all nursing actions, linked to this diagnosis, which are aimed at minimizing cardiovascular risk.
A high‐throughput screening platform for pigment regulating agents using pluripotent stem cell‐derived melanocytes
Authors: Parat Valentin , Onteniente Brigitte , Maruotti Julien
Published: December 2020

In this study, we describe a simple and straightforward assay using induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived melanocytes and high‐throughput flow cytometry, to identify the effect induced by pigment regulating agents on melanin content. The assay is based on the correlation between forward light‐scatter characteristics and melanin content, with pigmented cells displaying high light absorption/low forward light scatter, while the opposite is true for lowly pigmented melanocytes, as a result of genetic background or chemical treatments. Orthogonal validation is then performed by regular melanin quantification. Such approach was validated using a set of 80 small molecules and yielded a confirmed hit. The assay described in this study may prove a useful tool to identify modulators of melanogenesis in human melanocytes.
In vivo detection of microstructural spinal cord lesions in dogs with degenerative myelopathy using diffusion tensor imaging
Authors: Johnson Philippa J. , Miller Andrew D. , Cheetham Jonathan , Demeter Elena A. , Luh Wen‐Ming , Loftus John P. , Stephan Sarah L. , Dewey Curtis W. , Barry Erica F.
Published: December 2020

Background

Degenerative myelopathy (DM) in dogs is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that causes white matter spinal cord lesions. These lesions are undetectable on standard magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), limiting diagnosis and monitoring of the disease. Spinal cord lesions cause disruption to the structural integrity of the axons causing water diffusion to become more random and less anisotropic. These changes are detectable by the technique of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) which is highly sensitive to diffusion alterations secondary to white matter lesion development.

Objective

Perform spinal DTI on cohorts of dogs with and without DM to identify if lesions caused by DM will cause a detectable alteration in spinal cord diffusivity that correlates with neurological status.

Animals

Thirteen dogs with DM and 13 aged‐matched controls.

Methods

All animals underwent MRI with DTI of the entire spine. Diffusivity parameters fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) were measured at each vertebral level and statistically compared between groups.

Results

Dogs with DM had significant decreases in FA within the regions of the spinal cord that had high expected lesion load. Decreases in FA were most significant in dogs with severe forms of the disease and correlated with neurological grade.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Findings suggest that FA has the potential to be a biomarker for spinal cord lesion development in DM and could play an important role in improving diagnosis and monitoring of this condition.
Eating habits and sleep patterns of adolescents with depression symptoms in Mumbai, India
Authors: Moitra Panchali , Madan Jagmeet , Shaikh Nida I.
Published: December 2020

Adolescents with depression engage in unhealthy eating habits and irregular sleep patterns and are often at an increased risk for weight‐related problems. Improvement in these lifestyle behaviours may help to prevent depression, but knowledge about the associations between depression, sleep, eating habits and body weight among adolescents in India is limited. This cross‐sectional study investigated the prevalence of depression and its association with sleep patterns, eating habits and body weight status among a convenience sample of 527 adolescents, ages 10–17 years in Mumbai, India. Participants completed a survey on sleep patterns such as sleep duration, daytime sleepiness and sleep problems and eating habits such as frequency of breakfast consumption, eating family meals and eating out. Depression was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire modified for Adolescents (PHQ‐A). Anthropometric measurements were also taken. Within this sample, 25% had moderate to severe depression (PHQ‐A ≥ 10) and 46% reported sleeping less than 6 h > thrice a week. Adolescents with moderate to severe depression had significantly higher body mass index than those with minimal depression (26.2 ± 6.6 vs. 20.2 ± 4.8 kg/m2). The odds of having clinically significant depression (PHQ‐A ≥ 10) was 4.5 times higher in adolescents who had family meals ≤ once a week, 1.6 times higher among those who were sleeping <6 h and 2.3 times higher among participants having trouble falling to sleep more than thrice a week. The findings indicated that a significant proportion of adolescents had depression symptoms; improving sleep and eating habits may present potential targets for interventions.
A complementary feeding and play intervention improves the home environment and mental development among toddlers in rural India
Authors: Fernandez Rao Sylvia , Bentley Margaret E. , Balakrishna Nagalla , Griffiths Paula , Creed‐Kanashiro Hilary , Vazir Shahnaz , Johnson Susan L.
Published: December 2020

A cluster randomized trial design was used to test the efficacy of a behaviour change communication intervention on the quality of the home environment and infant development at 15 months of age. Children (n = 600) in rural South India were followed from 3 through 15 months of age. The control group (C group) received the standard of care, the complementary feeding group (CF group) received recommendations on complementary foods and the responsive complementary feeding and play group (RCF&P group) received recommendations on complementary foods plus skills on responsive feeding and play. The intervention was delivered in biweekly home visits to caregivers using flip charts. At postintervention, infants (n = 521) were assessed for development (Bayley‐II scales) and their home environment was assessed (Home Observation for Measurement of the Environment [HOME] scale). Cluster adjusted analysis of variance showed no significant differences at baseline. The HOME score at 15 months differed by group, F(2, 38) = 6.41, P = 0.004; the CF and RCF&P groups had higher scores than the C group. Scores on subscales ‘Opportunities for Variety in Daily Stimulation’ and ‘Caregiver Promotion of Child Development’ (CPCD) were higher for the RCF&P group than for the C and CF groups. Mental development index (MDI) scores differed by group, F(2, 37) = 3.31, P = 0.04, with the RCF&P group showing higher scores than the C group (P < 0.04); no differences were noted in psychomotor development index (PDI) scores (P = 0.48). The subscales of HOME associated with MDI at 15 months were ‘CPCD’ and ‘Cleanliness of Child’ (R2 = 0.076). ‘CPCD’ was also associated with PDI (R2 = 0.039). A responsive complementary feeding and play intervention delivered through home visits benefitted children's mental development and caregiving environment at 15 months.
Numerical Simulation of Nonlinear Thermal Radiation on the 3D Flow of a Couple Stress Casson Nanofluid Due to a Stretching Sheet
Authors: Satya Narayana P. V. , Tarakaramu Nainaru , Sarojamma G. , Animasaun I. L.
Published: December 2020

Little is known on the three-dimensional flow of a couple stress Casson fluid conveying nanoparticles when the significance of Lorentz force, chaotic gesture of those minute particles, and thermophoresis are significant. The intent of this investigation is to focus on the flow of such fluid along a horizontal surface due to dual stretching and internal heating. A zero nanoparticle mass flux condition is employed at the surface, which specifies that the nanoparticles’ fraction is submissively measured. The dimensional nonlinear equations are reduced into a system of coupled nonlinear ordinary differential equations by employing scaling analysis and later they are solved numerically. The results are discussed graphically for various emerged physical parameters through different plots. The results in the absence of stretching ratio factor indicate that the heat absorption parameter and Prandtl number accelerate the heat transfer rate. The temperature of the non-Newtonian couple stress fluid is found to be higher than that of viscous case. It may be suggested that the Casson couple stress nanofluid can be substituted for the corresponding viscous fluid in industrial applications for greater heat transfer. The outcomes are closely matched with the studies available in the literature as a limiting case.
Dynamics of Activation Energy and Nonlinear Mixed Convection in Darcy-Forchheimer Radiated Flow of Carreau Nanofluid Near Stagnation Point Region
Authors: Khan M. Ijaz , Alzahrani Faris
Published: December 2020

In this research work, heat and mass transport and radiated, two-dimensional, steady, incompressible nanofluid flow of non-Newtonian material (Carreau fluid) over a stretchable moving surface of sheet is examined. The flow is saturated through Darcy-Forchheimer porous medium and generated by stretching phenomenon. Furthermore, magnetodydrodynamics (MHD), mixed convection, heat generation/absorption, nonlinear thermal radiation, thermophoresis diffusion, activation energy, Brownian motion, and chemical reaction effects are accounted to develop the governing expressions, i.e., momentum, energy, and concentration for the considered flow problem. The governing equations are first altered into nonlinear ordinary differential equations with the help of appropriate similarity variables and then computational results are computed by Built-in-Shooting technique via mathematica. The salient aspects of sundry variables are discussed graphically on the velocity field, skin friction coefficient, temperature profile, Nusselt number, concentration field, and Sherwood number. Outcomes illustrate that the velocity field and temperature profile have contrast behavior against higher values of magnetic parameter. Also, the engineering quantities are discussed numerically with the help of important flow variables and the results are demonstrated through tables.
LEARNING FROM THE PAST? Cambodian and Syrian Refugee Experiences in New Zealand, 1979-2019
Authors: McCarthy Angela
Published: December 2020

This article utilises interviews with Cambodian and Syrian former refugees in Dunedin, New Zealand, to evaluate whether knowledge of previous refugee experiences can assist the resettlement of new refugee arrivals. It reveals that refugees to Dunedin have encountered similar challenges in both the past and the present – particularly concerning work, language, family reunification, health, and conflict within communities. Despite such similarities, drawing on past knowledge cannot fully assist with current responses for there is much that is new in our present times including different political and social contexts and the cultural characteristics of the refugees themselves. Further, by utilising interviews with former refugees from Cambodia and Syria, the article also offers up recommendations from the newcomers of ways to facilitate the resettlement process.
Alternative DNA Structures
In Vivo
: Molecular Evidence and Remaining Questions
Authors: Poggi Lucie , Richard Guy-Franck
Published: December 2020

Duplex DNA naturally folds into a right-handed double helix in physiological conditions. Some sequences of unusual base composition may nevertheless form alternative structures, as was shown for many repeated sequences
in vitro
. However, evidence for the formation of noncanonical structures in living cells is difficult to gather.
Molecular states from $$D^{(*)}{\bar{D}}^{(*)}/B^{(*)}{\bar{B}}^{(*)}$$ and $$D^{(*)}D^{(*)}/{\bar{B}}^{(*)}{\bar{B}}^{(*)}$$ interactions
Authors: Ding Zuo-Ming , Jiang Han-Yu , He Jun
Published: December 2020

In this work, we preform a systematic investigation about hidden heavy and doubly heavy molecular states from the $$D^{(*)}{\bar{D}}^{(*)}/B^{(*)}{\bar{B}}^{(*)}$$

D

(

∗
)

D

¯

(

∗
)

/

B

(

∗
)

B

¯

(

∗
)

and $$D^{(*)}D^{(*)}/{\bar{B}}^{(*)}{\bar{B}}^{(*)}$$

D

(

∗
)

D

(

∗
)

/

B

¯

(

∗
)

B

¯

(

∗
)

interactions in the quasipotential Bethe–Salpeter equation (qBSE) approach. With the help of Lagrangians with heavy quark and chiral symmetries, interaction potentials are constructed within the one-boson-exchange model in which we include the $$\pi $$
π
, $$\eta $$
η
, $$\rho $$
ρ
, $$\omega $$
ω
and $$\sigma $$
σ
exchanges, as well as $$J/\psi $$

J
/
ψ

or $$\varUpsilon $$
Υ
exchange. Possible bound states from the interactions considered are searched for as the pole of scattering amplitude. The results suggest that experimentally observed states, $$Z_c(3900)$$

Z
c

(
3900
)

, $$Z_c(4020)$$

Z
c

(
4020
)

, $$Z_b(10610)$$

Z
b

(
10610
)

, and $$Z_b(10650)$$

Z
b

(
10650
)

, can be related to the $$D{\bar{D}}^{*}$$

D

D

¯

∗

, $$D^*{\bar{D}}^{*}$$

D
∗

D

¯

∗

, $$B{\bar{B}}^{*}$$

B

B

¯

∗

, and $$B^*{\bar{B}}^{*}$$

B
∗

B

¯

∗

interactions with quantum numbers $$I^G(J^P)=1^+(1^{+})$$

I
G

(

J
P

)

=

1
+

(

1
+

)

, respectively. The $$D{\bar{D}}^{*}$$

D

D

¯

∗

interaction is also attractive enough to produce a pole with $$0^+(0^+)$$

0
+

(

0
+

)

which is related to the X(3872). Within the same theoretical frame, the existence of $$D{\bar{D}}$$

D

D

¯

and $$B{\bar{B}}$$

B

B

¯

molecular states with $$0(0^+)$$

0
(

0
+

)

are predicted. The possible $$D^*{\bar{D}}^*$$

D
∗

D

¯

∗

molecular states with $$0(0^+, 1^+, 2^+)$$

0
(

0
+

,

1
+

,

2
+

)

and $$1(0^+)$$

1
(

0
+

)

and their bottom partners are also suggested by the calculation. In the doubly heavy sector, no bound state is produced from the $$DD/{\bar{B}}{\bar{B}}$$

D
D
/

B

¯

B

¯

interaction while a bound state is found with $$0(1^+)$$

0
(

1
+

)

from $$DD^*/{\bar{B}}{\bar{B}}^*$$

D

D
∗

/

B

¯

B

¯

∗

interaction. The $$D^*D^*/{\bar{B}}^*{\bar{B}}^*$$

D
∗

D
∗

/

B

¯

∗

B

¯

∗

interaction produces three molecular states with $$0(1^+)$$

0
(

1
+

)

, $$0(2^+)$$

0
(

2
+

)

and $$1(2^+)$$

1
(

2
+

)

.
Lie symmetry analysis for obtaining exact soliton solutions of generalized Camassa–Holm–Kadomtsev–Petviashvili equation
Authors: Kumar Sachin , Niwas Monika , Hamid Ihsanullah
Published: December 2020

The prime objective of this paper is to obtain the exact soliton solutions by applying the two mathematical techniques, namely, Lie symmetry analysis and generalized exponential rational function (GERF) method to the (2+1)-dimensional generalized Camassa–Holm–Kadomtsev–Petviashvili (g-CHKP) equation. First, we obtain Lie infinitesimals, possible vector fields, and commutative product of vectors for the g-CHKP equation. By the means of symmetry reductions, the g-CHKP equation reduced to various nonlinear ODEs. Subsequently, we implement the GERF method to the reduced ODEs with the help of computerized symbolic computation in Mathematica. Some abundant exact soliton solutions are obtained in the shapes of different dynamical structures of multiple-solitons like one-soliton, two-soliton, three-soliton, four-soliton, bell-shaped solitons, lump-type soliton, kink-type soliton, periodic solitary wave solutions, trigonometric function, hyperbolic trigonometric function, exponential function, and rational function solutions. Consequently, the dynamical structures of attained exact analytical solutions are discussed through 3D-plots via numerical simulation. A comparison with other results is also presented.
Effect of Alkali Activator on the Standard Consistency and Setting Times of Fly Ash and GGBS‐Based Sustainable Geopolymer Pastes
Authors: Dineshkumar M. , Umarani C.
Published: December 2020

In this study, an attempt has been made to study the effect of alkali activator on the standard consistency and setting times of low calcium fly ash (FA) and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS)‐ based sustainable geopolymer pastes. Different proportions of FA and GGBS were blended into mixes of geopolymer paste using sodium hydroxide (SH) and sodium silicate (SS) as alkaline activator solution (AAS). Tests on geopolymer pastes for consistency and initial and final setting times were carried out for three different SH : SS ratios of 1 : 1, 1 : 2, and 1 : 3 for both 2.5 M (molarity) and 5.0 M of SH concentration. While increasing the molarity of SH, both consistency and setting time decreased. For all the blended binder mix, the setting time decreases with an increase in the quantity of SS in the alkali activator solution. An increase in the amount of GGBS content in the geopolymer blended binder mix increases the consistency and decreases the setting time. For both 2.5 M and 5 M blended geopolymer mixes, a decrease in the percentage of GGBS and an increase in the percentage of FA increased the setting time. Microstructural studies such as X‐ray fluorescence analysis (XRF), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) analyses were carried out, and the results are presented. The FT‐IR spectra for the blended binder mixes demonstrated the formation of geopolymerization and the presence of the functional groups.
Decision-Making Based on q-Rung Orthopair Fuzzy Soft Rough Sets
Authors: Wang Yinyu , Hussain Azmat , Mahmood Tahir , Ali Muhammad Irfan , Wu Hecheng , Jin Yun
Published: December 2020

Recently, Yager presented the new concept of q-rung orthopair fuzzy (q-ROF) set (q-ROFS) which emerged as the most significant generalization of Pythagorean fuzzy set (PFS). From the analysis of q-ROFS, it is clear that the rung q is the most significant feature of this notion. When the rung q increases, the orthopair adjusts in the boundary range which is needed. Thus, the input range of q-ROFS is more flexible, resilient, and suitable than the intuitionistic fuzzy set (IFS) and PFS. The aim of this manuscript is to investigate the hybrid concept of soft set (

S

t

S) and rough set with the notion of q-ROFS to obtain the new notion of q-ROF soft rough (q-ROF

S

t

R) set (q-ROF

S

t

RS). In addition, some averaging aggregation operators such as q-ROF

S

t

R weighted averaging (q-ROF

S

t

RWA), q-ROF

S

t

R ordered weighted averaging (q-ROF

S

t

ROWA), and q-ROF

S

t

R hybrid averaging (q-ROF

S

t

RHA) operators are presented. Then, the basic desirable properties of these investigated averaging operators are discussed in detail. Moreover, we investigated the geometric aggregation operators, such as q-ROF

S

t

R weighted geometric (q-ROF

S

t

RWG), q-ROF

S

t

R ordered weighted geometric (q-ROF

S

t

ROWG), and q-ROF

S

t

R hybrid geometric (q-ROF

S

t

RHG) operators, and proposed the basic desirable characteristics of the investigated geometric operators. The technique for multicriteria decision-making (MCDM) and the stepwise algorithm for decision-making by utilizing the proposed approaches are demonstrated clearly. Finally, a numerical example for the developed approach is presented and a comparative study of the investigated models with some existing methods is brought to light in detail which shows that the initiated models are more effective and useful than the existing methodologies.
A New Hybrid Butterfly Optimization Algorithm for Green Vehicle Routing Problem
Authors: Utama Dana Marsetiya , Widodo Dian Setiya , Ibrahim Muhammad Faisal , Dewi Shanty Kusuma
Published: December 2020

In the industrial sector, transportation plays an essential role in distribution. This activity impacts climate change and global warming. One of the critical problems in distribution is the green vehicle routing problem (G-VRP). This study focuses on G-VRP for a single distribution center. The objective function is to minimize the distribution costs by considering fuel costs, carbon costs, and vehicle use costs. This research aims to develop the hybrid butterfly optimization algorithm (HBOA) to minimize the distribution costs on G-VRP. It was inspired by the butterfly optimization algorithm (BOA), which was by combining the tabu search (TS) algorithm and local search swap and flip strategies. BOA is a new metaheuristic algorithm that has been successfully applied in various engineering fields. Experiments were carried out to test the parameters of the proposed algorithm and vary the speed of vehicles. The proposed algorithm was also compared with several procedures of prior study. The experimental results proved that the HBOA could minimize the total distribution cost compared to other algorithms. Moreover, the computation time is also included in the analysis.
Superficially Spreading Endocervical Adenocarcinoma in situ with Multifocal Microscopic Involvement of the Endometrial Surface: A Case Report with Emphasis on the Potential for Misdiagnosis Based on Endometrial Curettage Specimens
Authors: Hwang Inwoo , Lee Jiyeon , Choi Kyue-Hee , Han Jiheun , Kim Hyun-Soo
Published: December 2020

Misdiagnosis of endocervical adenocarcinoma (EAC) as endometrial endometrioid carcinoma (EEC) is one of the major concerns when evaluating endometrial curettage specimens. It is difficult to differentiate EAC involving the endometrium from EEC, particularly when the specimens have only a few small tumor fragments. We report a case of endocervical adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS) with multifocal microscopic involvement of the endometrium. The endometrial curettage specimen obtained from an 82-year-old woman consisted of a large volume of blood and fibrin, with small endometrial tissue fragments showing microscopic foci of atypical glandular proliferation. Based on the presence of complex glands with stratified mucin-poor columnar epithelium and intermediate-grade nuclear atypia, a preoperative diagnosis of grade 1 EEC was made. However, the hysterectomy specimen revealed an endocervical AIS involving the endocervix and low uterine segment. Frequent mitotic figures and apoptotic bodies, characteristic of AIS, were present. The endometrium showed a few microscopic foci of atypical glandular proliferation involving the surface only. Their histological features were similar to those of the endocervical AIS. Immunohistochemically, the atypical glands exhibited block p16 positivity. The final diagnosis was a superficially spreading endocervical AIS with multifocal microscopic involvement of the endometrial surface epithelium. In summary, small tumor tissues in an endometrial curettage may lead to misdiagnosis of AIS or EAC as EEC, especially when the pathologists are unaware of the possibility of microscopic endometrial involvement of AIS or EAC. The origin of the tumor can be correctly determined based on a combination of histological features and immunostaining. Endocervical AIS involving the endometrium should be included in the differential diagnosis of neoplastic glandular lesions in endometrial curettage specimens. An accurate diagnosis in these cases is important because of its significant implications for clinical management.
Hyperacute Recanalization Strategies and Childhood Stroke in the Evidence Age
Authors: Chabrier Stéphane , Ozanne Augustin , Naggara Olivier , Boulouis Grégoire , Husson Béatrice , Kossorotoff Manoëlle
Published: December 2020

No controlled pharmacological studies are available in the field of pediatric stroke, except for sickle cell disease. Therefore, while pharmacological and mechanical recanalization treatments have repeatedly shown clinical benefit in adults with arterial ischemic stroke, pediatric strokologists still cannot base their therapeutic management (including hyperacute strategies) on high-level evidence. Once again, pediatricians face the same dichotomic choice: adapting adult procedures now versus waiting—for a long time—for the corresponding pediatric trials. One way out is building a compromise based on observational studies with large, longitudinal, comprehensive, real-life, and multisource dataset. Two recent high-quality observational studies have delivered promising conclusions on recanalization treatments in pediatric arterial ischemic stroke. TIPSTER (Thrombolysis in Pediatric Stroke Extended Results) showed that the risk of severe intracranial hemorrhage after intravenous thrombolysis is low; the Save Childs Study reported encouraging data about pediatric thrombectomy. Beyond the conclusion of a satisfactory global safety profile, a thorough analysis of the methods, populations, results, and therapeutic complications of these studies helps us to refine indications/contraindications and highlights the safeguards we need to rely on when discussing thrombolysis and thrombectomy in children. In conclusion, pediatric strokologists should not refrain from using clot lysis/retrieval tools in selected children with arterial ischemic stroke. But the implementation of hyperacute care is only feasible if the right candidate is identified through the sharing of common adult/pediatric protocols and ward collaboration, formalized well before the child’s arrival. These anticipated protocols should never undervalue contraindications from adult guidelines and must involve the necessary pediatric expertise when facing specific causes of stroke, such as focal cerebral arteriopathy of childhood.
Sample size, power and effect size revisited: simplified and practical approaches in pre-clinical, clinical and laboratory studies
Authors: Serdar Ceyhan Ceran , Cihan Murat , Yücel Doğan , Serdar Muhittin A
Published: December 2020

Calculating the sample size in scientific studies is one of the critical issues as regards the scientific contribution of the study. The sample size critically affects the hypothesis and the study design, and there is no straightforward way of calculating the effective sample size for reaching an accurate conclusion. Use of a statistically incorrect sample size may lead to inadequate results in both clinical and laboratory studies as well as resulting in time loss, cost, and ethical problems. This review holds two main aims. The first aim is to explain the importance of sample size and its relationship to effect size (ES) and statistical significance. The second aim is to assist researchers planning to perform sample size estimations by suggesting and elucidating available alternative software, guidelines and references that will serve different scientific purposes.
Embracing the Darkness: Methods for Tackling Uncertainty and Complexity in Environmental Disaster Risks
Authors: Matejova Miriam , Briggs Chad M.
Published: December 2020

Environmental systems are complex and often difficult to predict. The interrelationships within such systems can create abrupt changes with lasting impacts, yet they are often overlooked until disasters occur. Mounting environmental and social crises demand the need to better understand both the role and consequences of emerging risks in global environmental politics (GEP). In this research note, we discuss scenarios and simulations as innovative tools that may help GEP scholars identify, assess, and communicate solutions to complex problems and systemic risks. We argue that scenarios and simulations are effective at providing context for interpreting “weak signals.” Applying simulations to research of complex risks also offers opportunities to address otherwise overwhelming uncertainty.
Strengthening the Legal Protection of Female Workers in Marine Fisheries—A Chinese Perspective
Authors: He Ruiyao , Chang Yen-Chiang
Published: December 2020

China is a large State with a large population and an enormous fishing industry. The marine fishery labour force represents a significant proportion of Chinese labour market share. Due to the special nature of working in marine fisheries, female workers have long represented a significant proportion of the workforce but have been undervalued or even recognised. So far, there has been little research on the protection of female workers’ rights in this field. In 2017, the Secretary-General of the United Nations presented the issue of people on the ocean in a special chapter within the Oceans and the Law of the Sea Report, highlighting the protection of women’s rights in the field of marine fisheries. There is evidence that this issue has already attracted the attention of the international community. Studying the issue of female workers’ protection in this field encourages the standardisation of the marine fishery labour market, thus promoting sound future development. As a result, this article tries to address the necessity for the legal protection of female workers in the field of marine fishery, through an analysis of the evolution of the marine fishery labour force and the current situation as regards the issue of human rights. To date, there is still a lack of effective protection of women’s rights in marine fisheries, especially through legal means, which requires to be addressed.
REAL-TIME MONITORING OF COSMIC RAY ANISOTROPY PARAMETERS AND SHORT-TERM FORECASTING OF GEOMAGNETIC DISTURBANCES
Authors: Zverev Anton , Grigoryev Vladislav , Gololobov Peter , Starodubtsev Sergei
Published: December 2020

SB RAS, using data from the NMDB database, has implemented continuous monitoring of the dynamics of cosmic ray (CR) distribution parameters and the automatic forecasting of geomagnetic disturbance. Monitoring is based on the global survey method, which considers the world-wide network of neutron monitors as a single device oriented in different directions at each measured time. This method provides real-time parameters of nine components of the first two angular moments of the CR distribution function for each hour of observation. This paper discusses methodological aspects related to the use of the global survey method and some results of the forecasting of geomagnetic disturbances for 2017–2018.
Associating machine-learning and analytical models for quality of transmission estimation: combining the best of both worlds
Authors: Seve Emmanuel , Pesic Jelena , Pointurier Yvan
Published: December 2020

By associating machine learning and an analytical model (i.e., the Gaussian noise model), we reduce uncertainties on the output power profile and the noise figure of each amplifier in an optical network. We leverage the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of all the light paths of an optical network, monitored in all the coherent receivers. The learning process is based on a gradient-descent algorithm where all the uncertain input parameters of the analytical model are iteratively modified from their estimated values to match with the SNR of light paths in a European optical network. The design margin is then reduced to 0.1 dB for new traffic demands.
Volume measurement of mandibular teeth pulp chamber as a prediction tool of gender and ethnicity in a Brazilian population
Authors: Fardim Karolina Aparecida Castilho , Oliveira Junior Eurico , Rodrigues Rafael , Araújo Elaine , Gomes João Pedro , Costa André , Da Silva Paulo Henrique , Castro Lopes Sergio Lucio
Published: December 2020

Objective: Forensic dentistry has used some methods for the human identification process. However, there is a need to study characteristics that are able to perform identification more specifically, increasing accuracy. Considering the role of dental arch assessment in prediction of gender and ethnicity, the purpose of this study was to assess the volume of pulp chamber as a mean to obtain new forensic evidence. Material and methods: For this task, 1.190 cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images were retrospectively selected and subdivided according to the population number, gender, age and ethnicity. All DICOM files were imported to the open-source software ITK-SNAP® (http://www.itksnap.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php). The segmentation process was performed in all pulp chamber aiming to obtain pulp tissue´s volume. Results: As a result, the pulp chamber volume of mandibular canine teeth showed to be larger in white population than in non-white (P-value = 0.003) and in male individuals in comparison with female (P-value = 0.038). Conclusion: These results, however, must be confirmed by future studies with a larger sample size and by the assessment of other variables, including texture analysis and density of dental tissues.
KEYWORDS
Cone beam computed tomography; Ethnicity; Forensic dentistry; Gender; Pulp chamber volume; Volumetric assessment.
Ecologia como uma sinfonia da vida, das vozes do semiárido ao pertencimento planetário: uma rede conectada de sujeitos
Authors: Dos Santos Marinalva Valdevino , De Lima Joedla Rodrigues
Published: December 2020

Reconhecendo a importância dos saberes tradicionais para a sociobiodiversidade, esta pesquisa tem como objetivo descrever as práticas identificadas a partir do Estágio Interdisciplinar de Vivência (EIV) e relacionar as experiências de histórias de vida oral de agricultores familiares no Sertão Paraibano com a ecologia profunda e noção de pertencimento à Terra. A metodologia utilizada foi qualitativa, realizada por meio de observação direta das práticas cotidianas, em que se observou que as atividades de reciclagem, reuso, cuidados com o manejo correto da terra, da adubação orgânica e uso de defensivos naturais e da criação animal ecológica foram mitigadoras de impactos ambientais e representam relações de responsabilidade ambiental. Com os relatos de história de vida, percebeu-se o sentimento de pertencimento à Terra e à realidade semiárida, configurando uma reestruturação do modo de vida dos sujeitos que vivem na região estudada.
Bibliotecade artista
Authors: Penido Adriana Penido
Published: December 2020

A partir das obras “Requiem” (2013) de Emilio Chapella, “Scultura de d´ombra” (2009) de Claudio Parmiggiani, “Missing Names” (2013) de Patricia Osses, “Flying Books - homenaje a Borges” (2012) de Christian Boltanski e “Biblioteca del bosque”, de Miguél Ángel Blanco (2002 - ), pretende-se refletir sobre a presença da biblioteca nas artes visuais. Nota-se a partir dos anos de 1990, um intenso volume de obras cujo interesse é a biblioteca. Poeticamente denominadas “bibliotecas de artista”, essa noção descreve obras produzidas por artistas a partir de ou no espaço de uma biblioteca. Utilizando-se dos mais diferentes suportes, muitas dessas obras são descritas como instalação, fotografia, livro de artista, pintura, desenho, vídeo e outras mídias conhecidas. A biblioteca passou a ser também um território de subversão, imaginação e poetização na contemporaneidade.

PALAVRAS-CHAVE

Biblioteca de artista, livro de artista, imagem, livros, biblioteca.
Kant and the Pre-Conceptual Use of the Understanding
Authors: Indregard Jonas Jervell
Published: December 2020

Does Kant hold that we can have intuitions independently of concepts? A striking passage from § 13 of theCritique of Pure Reasonappears to say so explicitly. However, it also conjures up a scenario where the categories are inapplicable to objects of intuition, a scenario presumably shown impossible by the following Transcendental Deduction. The seemingly non-conceptualist claim concerning intuition have therefore been read, by conceptualist interpreters of Kant, as similarly counterpossible. I argue that the passage in question best supports an underappreciated middle position where intuition requires a pre-conceptual use of the understanding. Such pre-conceptual use of the understanding faces both textual and systematic objections. I show that these objections can be rebutted.