bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sarcopenia as a predictor of postoperative risk of complications, mortality and length of stay following gastrointestinal oncological surgery
Authors: Wang H , Yang R , Xu J , Fang K , Abdelrahim MEA , Chang L
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Sarcopenia has drawn considerable attention as a predictor of postoperative risk, although the relationship between sarcopenia and postoperative risk is contentious. This meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate this relationship.

Methods

A systematic literature search up to May 2020 was carried out and 43 studies were identified (with 16,716 patients) reporting on the relationship between sarcopenia and postoperative risk. In order to evaluate this relationship, odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using the dichotomous and continuous method with a random or fixed effects model.

Results

Compared with non-sarcopenic patients, those with sarcopenia have a higher major complications rate (OR: 4.03, 95% CI: 2.49–5.57, p<0.001), a higher total complications rate (OR: 1.77, 95% CI: 1.40–2.24, p<0.001), a higher 30-day mortality rate (OR: 2.38, 95% CI: 1.56–3.63, p<0.001) and a longer hospital stay (mean difference: 4.54 days, 95% CI: 2.49–6.59 days, p<0.001).

Conclusions

Sarcopenia significantly increases the risk of major complications, total complications, 30-day mortality and length of hospital stay. For this reason, it is recommended that sarcopenia is added to preoperative risk evaluation to avoid any possible negative outcomes following gastrointestinal oncological surgery.
Formal differentiation at upper secondary education in Finland: subject-level choices and stratified pathways to socio-economic status and unemployment
Authors: Heiskala Laura , Erola Jani , McMullin Patricia
Published: March 2021

We study labour market outcomes by formal differentiation at upper secondary and tertiary level in Finland. Using full population register data, we take individuals born in 1976 and explore their socio-economic status and the probability of unemployment by educational qualifications and social origin in early adulthood (age 30) and at occupational maturity (age 40). We differentiate based on the level of maths, the most consequential subject choice at general upper secondary education, and show that subject-level choices divert students to stratified tertiary-level degrees and labour market positions net of prior school performance, social origin and gender. In addition, we show that educational performance and qualifications mediate the association between social origin and socio-economic status by 81‒83%, leaving around one fifth to unobserved social origin differences. We also find that there are no major differences between upper secondary school tracks with respect to experiencing unemployment at age 30 or 40. Moreover, further educational degrees do not appear to provide additional protection against unemployment than having obtained an upper secondary qualification.
Quantitative spectroscopic comparison of the optical properties of mouse cochlea microstructures using optical coherence tomography at 1.06 µm and 1.3 µm wavelengths
Authors: Tsai Ting-Yen , Chen Ting-Hao , Chen Hsin-Chien , Chueh Chuan-Bor , Huang Yin-Peng , Hung Yi-Ping , Tsai Meng-Tsan , Baumann Bernhard , Wang Chih-Hung , Lee Hsiang-Chieh
Published: March 2021

Currently, the cochlear implantation procedure mainly relies on using a hand lens or surgical microscope, where the success rate and surgery time strongly depend on the surgeon’s experience. Therefore, a real-time image guidance tool may facilitate the implantation procedure. In this study, we performed a systematic and quantitative analysis on the optical characterization of ex vivo mouse cochlear samples using two swept-source optical coherence tomography (OCT) systems operating at the 1.06-µm and 1.3-µm wavelengths. The analysis results demonstrated that the 1.06-µm OCT imaging system performed better than the 1.3-µm OCT imaging system in terms of the image contrast between the cochlear conduits and the neighboring cochlear bony wall structure. However, the 1.3-µm OCT imaging system allowed for greater imaging depth of the cochlear samples because of decreased tissue scattering. In addition, we have investigated the feasibility of identifying the electrode of the cochlear implant within the ex vivo cochlear sample with the 1.06-µm OCT imaging. The study results demonstrated the potential of developing an image guidance tool for the cochlea implantation procedure as well as other otorhinolaryngology applications.
Mapping time-dependent quasi-energies of laser dressed helium
Authors: Xu Huiyao , Cao Wei , Zhang Jie , Mo Yunlong , Mi Kang , Yang Zhen , Zhang Qingbin , Lu Peixiang
Published: March 2021

Extreme ultraviolet (EUV) transient absorption spectrum of helium dressed by a moderately intense infrared laser pulse is investigated. Strategies for correct retrieval of the time-dependent quasi-energies of helium with excitation energies covering both singly and doubly excited states are proposed. For long-lived singly excited states, the profound hyperbolic structures due to long lasting dipole can be diminished by convoluting the transient absorption spectrogram with a spectral window, allowing the time-dependent quasi-energies close to 1s2p resonance to be correctly mapped out. For short-lived doubly excited states near 2s2p resonance, the radiation dipole decays rapidly due to autoionization and the transient absorption spectrogram already recovers the main structure of quasi-energies without the convolution operation. The quantum simulation indicates that the convolution operation controls the effective decay speed of the dipole moment, which effectively builds up an instant probe that is essential for mapping time dependent quasi-energies of laser dressed systems.
Least-squares ray mapping method for freeform illumination optics design: erratum
Authors: Wei Shili , Zhu Zhengbo , Fan Zichao , Ma Donglin
Published: March 2021

We provide corrections of the author list as well as Eq. (12) and (13) in our previous publication [Opt. Express 28, 38113811 (2020)10.1364/OE.385254].
Soil-transmitted helminth infection in pregnancy and long-term child neurocognitive and behavioral development: A prospective mother-child cohort in Benin
Authors: Garrison Amanda , Boivin Michael , Khoshnood Babak , Courtin David , Alao Jules , Mireku Michael , Ibikounle Moudachirou , Massougbodji Achille , Cot Michel , Bodeau-Livinec Florence
Published: March 2021

Background

An estimated 30% of women in Sub-Saharan Africa suffer from soil-transmitted helminth infection during pregnancy (SHIP), which has been shown to increase risk of pre-term birth, low birth weight, and maternal anemia. A previous study in Benin found that SHIP was associated with impaired cognitive and gross motor development scores in 635 one-year-old children. The objective of the present study was to follow children prospectively to investigate whether the association between SHIP and child neurocognitive and behavioral development persisted at age six.

Principal findings

Our prospective child cohort included 487 live-born singletons of pregnant women enrolled in the Malaria in Pregnancy Preventive Alternative Drugs clinical trial in Allada, Benin. SHIP was assessed at three antenatal visits (ANVs) through collection and testing of stool samples. Neurocognitive and behavioral development was assessed in six-year-old children by trained investigators using the Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children 2nd edition and the parent-reported Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Multiple linear regression models generated coefficients and 95% confidence intervals and potential mediating factors were tested. Prevalence of SHIP was 13% at the 1st ANV, 9% at the 2nd ANV, and 1% at delivery. SHIP was not associated with low neurocognitive scores in children at six years. Higher SDQ internalizing scores, indicating increased emotional impairments in children, were associated with helminth infection at the 2nd ANV/delivery 1.07 (95% CI 0.15, 2.00) and at least once during pregnancy 0.79 (95% CI 0.12, 1.46) in adjusted models. Mediation analysis did not reveal significant indirect effects of several mediators on this association.

Conclusions

Our study shows that while SHIP is not associated with impaired long-term neurocognitive development, infections may have significant negative impacts on emotional development in six-year-old children. SHIP remains a critical public health issue, and adequate prevention and treatment protocols should be enforced in low- and middle-income countries.
Establishment of reference intervals of clinical chemistry analytes for the adult population in Egypt
Authors: Baz Heba , Ichihara Kiyoshi , Selim May , Awad Ahmed , Aglan Sarah , Ramadan Dalia , Hassab Amina , Mansour Lamia , Elgaddar Ola
Published: March 2021

Background

This is the first Egyptian nationwide study for derivation of reference intervals (RIs) for 34 major chemistry analytes. It was conducted as a part of the global initiative by the IFCC Committee on Reference Intervals and Decision Limits (C-RIDL) for establishing country-specific RIs based on a harmonized protocol.

Methods

691 apparently healthy volunteers aged ≥18 years were recruited from multiple regions in Egypt. Serum specimens were analyzed in two centers. The harmonization and standardization of test results were achieved by measuring value-assigned serum panel provided by C-RIDL. The RIs were calculated by parametric method. Sources of variation of reference values (RVs) were evaluated by multiple regression analysis. The need for partitioning by sex, age, and region was judged primarily by standard deviation ratio (SDR).

Results

Gender-specific RIs were required for six analytes including total bilirubin (TBil), aspartate and alanine aminotransferase (AST, ALT). Seven analytes required age-partitioning including glucose and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Regional differences were observed between northern and southern Egypt for direct bilirubin, glucose, and high-density-lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) with all their RVs lower in southern Egypt. Compared with other collaborating countries, the features of Egyptian RVs were lower HDL-C and TBil and higher TG and C-reactive protein. In addition, BMI showed weak association with most of nutritional markers. These features were shared with two other Middle Eastern countries: Saudi Arabia and Turkey.

Conclusion

The standardized RIs established by this study can be used as common Egyptian RI, except for a few analytes that showed regional differences. Despite high prevalence of obesity among Egyptians, their RVs of nutritional markers are less sensitive to increased BMI, compared to other collaborating countries.
Erectile dysfunction and its associated factors among the male population in Adigrat Town, Tigrai Region, Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Gebremedhin Haftom Tesfay , Mezgebo Hagos Mehari , Geberhiwot Gessessew Teklebrhan , Gebru Tesfay Tsegay , Tesfamichael Yowhans Ashebir , Ygzaw Hailu Belay , Baraki Mulu Ftwi , woledemariam Guesh Teklu , Gebru Tsegu Hailu , Tadese Haileslassie Tesfay , Kindeya Gebreslassie Gebreegziabhier , Azale Telake
Published: March 2021

Background

Erectile dysfunction is one of the common sexual dysfunctions, but it is generally misunderstood as it is not a condition that threatens life. It affects an individual’s physical as well as psychosocial health and has a significant impact on sufferers and their families’ quality of life. No data are suggesting the prevalence of erectile dysfunction at the population level in Ethiopia. This research aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of erectile dysfunction among the male population.

Methods

We employed a community based cross-sectional study among 802 study participants. A two-stage random sampling method was used for enrolling study participants. Including the International Index of Erectile Function Questionnaire-5 (IIEF-5) for erectile dysfunction, data were collected using pretested and a structured questionnaire administered by an interviewer. Binary logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with erectile dysfunction.

Result

Out of the total of 802 individuals, 25.4%(95% CI:(22.4, 28.3%)) (n = 204) reported erectile dysfunction. The mean age of the participants was 34.3 ± 9.6 years. Age of 40years and above [AOR = 10.74, 95% CI: (7.07, 16.35)], physical inactivity [AOR = 3.62, 95% CI: (2.40, 5.45)], depression [AOR = 4.01, 95% CI: (2.22, 7.21)], poor quality of life [AOR = 1.59, 95% CI: (1.07, 2.36)] were significantly associated with erectile dysfunction.

Conclusions

In this study, the prevalence of erectile dysfunction was high. Therefore, it is recommended that erectile dysfunction treatment be integrated into the health care system that focuses on educating and inspiring people on healthy eating, physical activity, and behavior enhancing wellbeing.
B cell and monocyte phenotyping: A quick asset to investigate the immune status in patients with IgA nephropathy
Authors: Sendic Senka , Mansouri Ladan , Lundberg Sigrid , Nopp Anna , Jacobson Stefan H. , Lundahl Joachim
Published: March 2021

Background

IgA nephropathy (IgAN) advances from multiple pathogenic “hits” resulting in poorly O-galactosylated IgA1 glycoforms (Gd-IgA1), production of antibodies and glomerular deposition of immune complexes. A sequence of immune responses arising from plasma cells, T cells and antigen presenting cells (APCs), causes glomerular injury. This study was designed to phenotype subsets of B cells, monocytes and T cells in the peripheral circulation and their association with inflammatory cytokines and kidney function in patients with IgAN, healthy controls (HC) and disease controls with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD).

Methods

Patients with IgAN (n = 13), median estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of 57 ml/min/1.73m2 (IQR 42–84), patients with ADPKD (n = 13) matched for kidney function, gender and age and gender and age-matched HC (n = 13) were recruited. CD3+ and CD3- peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated and profiled based on their specific surface markers for different subsets of monocytes, B and T cells and analyzed by flow cytometry. Cytokines were analyzed by ELISA.

Results

We observed a significant decrease in the proportion of pre-switched B cells and plasmablasts, but an increase in long-lived plasma cells in the peripheral circulation of IgAN patients compared to HC. The proportion of non-classical monocytes was significantly higher in IgAN patients compared to both HC and ADPKD. We also report an association between sCD40L levels and the proportion of pre-switched B cells, as well as sCD40L and MCP-1 levels and albuminuria in IgAN patients.

Conclusions

We applied an easy-access method to analyze subsets of immune cells as well as relevant inflammatory mediators in IgAN patients. Our data demonstrate an altered B cell profile that indicates a pathophysiological role of the B cell lineage and an increased proportion of non-classical monocytes that suggests their role in the disease process.
On measuring agreement with numerically bounded linguistic probability schemes: A re-analysis of data from Wintle, Fraser, Wills, Nicholson, and Fidler (2019)
Authors: Mandel David R. , Irwin Daniel
Published: March 2021

Across a wide range of domains, experts make probabilistic judgments under conditions of uncertainty to support decision-making. These judgments are often conveyed using linguistic expressions (e.g., x is likely). Seeking to foster shared understanding of these expressions between senders and receivers, the US intelligence community implemented a communication standard that prescribes a set of probability terms and assigns each term an equivalent numerical probability range. In an earlier PLOS ONE article, [1] tested whether access to the standard improves shared understanding and also explored the efficacy of various enhanced presentation formats. Notably, they found that embedding numeric equivalents in text (e.g., x is likely [55–80%]) substantially outperformed the status-quo approach in terms of the percentage overlap between participants’ interpretations of linguistic probabilities (defined in terms of the numeric range equivalents they provided for each term) and the numeric ranges in the standard. These results have important prescriptive implications, yet Wintle et al.’s percentage overlap measure of agreement may be viewed as unfairly punitive because it penalizes individuals for being more precise than the stipulated guidelines even when the individuals’ interpretations fall perfectly within the stipulated ranges. Arguably, subjects’ within-range precision is a positive attribute and should not be penalized in scoring interpretive agreement. Accordingly, in the present article, we reanalyzed Wintle et al.’s data using an alternative measure of percentage overlap that does not penalize in-range precision. Using the alternative measure, we find that percentage overlap is substantially elevated across conditions. More importantly, however, the effects of presentation format and probability level are highly consistent with the original study. By removing the ambiguity caused by Wintle et al.’s unduly punitive measure of agreement, these findings buttress Wintle et al.’s original claim that the methods currently used by intelligence organizations are ineffective at coordinating the meaning of uncertainty expressions between intelligence producers and intelligence consumers. Future studies examining agreement between senders and receivers are also encouraged to reflect carefully on the most appropriate measures of agreement to employ in their experiments and to explicate the bases for their methodological choices.
Evidence-based practice utilization and associated factors among nurses working in Amhara Region Referral Hospitals, Ethiopia
Authors: Aynalem Zewdu Bishaw , Yazew Kassahun Gebeyehu , Gebrie Mignote Hailu
Published: March 2021

Background

Applying evidence-based practice during care provision is essential because it improves the quality of care, reduces health care costs, and increases patient and family satisfaction. However, information on evidence-based nursing practice and associated factors were not well studied and documented in the study area. Hence, this study aimed to assess utilization and associated factors of evidence-based practice among nurses working in Amhara Region Referral Hospitals, Ethiopia.

Methods

An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March 18 to April 16, 2019, in Amhara Region Referral Hospitals. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 684 respondents. Data were collected using a pretested and self-administered questionnaire. Data were entered into Epi Info version 7.1.2.0 and exported to SPSS version 22.0 for analysis. The bivariable analysis was used primarily and variables with p-value < 0.2 were further examined using a multivariable logistic regression model to control con-founders. Then, variables’ p-value < 0.05 with 95% CI was used to determine associated factors.

Results

From 684 proposed nurses, 671 of them completed the questionnaire giving 98.1% response rate. Of these, 55% (95% CI: 51.2, 58.9) of them had good evidence-based practice utilization. Variables including single (AOR = 1.662: 95% CI: 1.089–2.536), fewer work experience (AOR = 1.849: 95% CI: 1.049–3.257), good knowledge (AOR = 2.044: 95% CI: 1.406–2.972), effective communication skill (AOR = 2.537: 95% CI: 1.744–3.689), EBP training (AOR = 3.224 95% CI: 1.957–5.311), internet access (AOR = 1.655: 95% CI: 1.119–2.448) and evidence-based guideline availability (AOR = 1.827: 95% CI: 1.249–2.673) were found to be predictors of evidence-based practice utilization.

Conclusions

The study revealed that evidence-based practice utilization among nurses is low. Availing evidence-based guidelines in the work area, improving facilities’ internet access, and building nurses’ evidence-based practice competencies through either by giving separate training or incorporating as part of the curriculum would improve its utilization.
Risk factors for symptomatic Avascular Necrosis (AVN) in a multi-ethnic Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) cohort
Authors: Shaharir Syahrul Sazliyana , Chua Siew Huoy , Mohd Rozita , Mustafar Ruslinda , Noh Malehah Mohd , Shahril Nor Shuhaila , Said Mohd Shahrir Mohamed , Rajalingham Sakthiswary
Published: March 2021

Avascular necrosis of bone (AVN) is increasingly being recognized as a complication of SLE and causes significant disability due to pain and mobility limitations. We studied the prevalence and factors associated with avascular necrosis (AVN) in a multiethnic SLE cohort. SLE patients who visited the outpatient clinic from October 2017 to April 2019 were considered eligible. Their medical records were reviewed to identify patients who developed symptomatic AVN, as confirmed by either magnetic resonance imaging or plain radiography. Subsequently, their SLE disease characteristics and treatment were compared with the characteristics of patients who did not have AVN. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the independent factors associated with AVN among the multiethnic SLE cohort. A total of 390 patients were recruited, and the majority of them were females (92.6%); the patients were predominantly of Malay ethnicity (59.5%), followed by Chinese (35.9%) and Indian (4.6%). The prevalence of symptomatic AVN was 14.1%, and the mean age of AVN diagnosis was 37.6 ± 14.4 years. Both univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses revealed that a longer disease duration, high LDL-C (low density lipoprotein cholesterol), positive anti-cardiolipin (aCL) IgG and anti-dsDNA results, a history of an oral prednisolone dose of more than 30 mg daily for at least 4 weeks and osteoporotic fractures were significantly associated with AVN. On the other hand, hydroxychloroquin (HCQ), mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and bisphosphonate use were associated with a lower risk of AVN. No associations with ethnicity were found. In conclusion, several modifiable risk factors were found to be associated with AVN, and these factors may be used to identify patients who are at high risk of developing such complications. The potential protective effects of HCQ, MMF and bisphosphonates warrant additional studies.
Association between sarcopenia level and metabolic syndrome
Authors: Kim Su Hwan , Jeong Ji Bong , Kang Jinwoo , Ahn Dong-Won , Kim Ji Won , Kim Byeong Gwan , Lee Kook Lae , Oh Sohee , Yoon Soon Ho , Park Sang Joon , Lee Doo Hee
Published: March 2021

Aims

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) increases the risk of diabetes mellitus (DM), cardiovascular disease (CVD), cancer, and mortality. Sarcopenia has been reported as a risk factor for MetS, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and CVD. To date, the association between sarcopenia and MetS has been investigated. However, there have been few studies on the dose-response relationship between sarcopenia and MetS. We investigated the association between sarcopenia and the prevalence of MetS. We also aimed to analyze the dose-response relationship between skeletal muscle mass and the prevalence of MetS.

Methods

We enrolled 13,620 participants from October 2014 to December 2019. Skeletal muscle mass was measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM) was divided by body weight (kg) and was expressed as a percentage (ASM x 100/Weight, ASM%). The quartiles of ASM% were calculated for each gender, with Q1 and Q4 being the lowest and highest quartiles of ASM%, respectively. The quartiles of ASM% were calculated for each gender, with Q1 and Q4 being the lowest and highest quartiles of ASM%, respectively. Linear regression and logistic regression analyses were used to compare the clinical parameters according to ASM%, adjusted for age, sex, obesity, hypertension (HT), DM, dyslipidemia (DL), smoking, alcohol intake, and C-reactive protein (CRP). Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the risk of MetS in each group.

Results

A dose-response relationship was identified between ASM% and MetS. Sarcopenia was associated with an increased prevalence of MetS. After adjustment for age, sex, obesity, HT, DM, DL, smoking, alcohol intake, and CRP, sarcopenia remained significantly associated with MetS. For each 1 quartile increment in ASM%, the risk of MetS decreased by 56% (P< 0.001). After adjusting for age, sex, obesity, HT, DM, DL, smoking, alcohol intake, and CRP, the risk of MetS decreased by 25% per 1Q increment in ASM% (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Sarcopenia by BIA is independently associated with the risk of MetS and has a dose-response relationship.
Patterns and associated factors of diabetes self-management: Results of a latent class analysis in a German population-based study
Authors: Heise Marcus , Fink Astrid , Baumert Jens , Heidemann Christin , Du Yong , Frese Thomas , Carmienke Solveig
Published: March 2021

Objective

Few studies on diabetes self-management considered the patterns and relationships of different self-management behaviours (SMB). The aims of the present study are 1) to identify patterns of SMB among persons with diabetes, 2) to identify sociodemographic and disease-related predictors of SMB among persons with diabetes.

Research design and methods

The present analysis includes data of 1,466 persons (age 18 to 99 years; 44.0% female; 56.0% male) with diabetes (type I and II) from the population-based study German Health Update 2014/2015 (GEDA 2014/2015-EHIS). We used latent class analysis in order to distinguish different patterns of self-management behaviours among persons with diabetes. The assessment of SMB was based on seven self-reported activities by respondents (dietary plan, diabetes-diary, diabetes health pass, self-assessment of blood glucose, self-examination of feet, retinopathy-screenings and assessment of HbA1c). Subsequent multinomial latent variable regressions identified factors that were associated with self-management behaviour.

Results

Latent class analysis suggested a distinction between three patterns of SMB. Based on modal posterior probabilities 42.8% of respondents showed an adherent pattern of diabetes self-management with above-average frequency in all seven indicators of SMB. 32.1% showed a nonadherent pattern with a below-average commitment in all seven forms of SMB. Another 25.1% were assigned to an ambivalent type, which showed to be adherent with regard to retinopathy screenings, foot examinations, and the assessment of HbA1c, yet nonadherent with regard to all other forms of SMB. In multivariable regression analyses, participation in Diabetes Self-Management Education programs (DSME) was the most important predictor of good self-management behaviour (marginal effect = 51.7 percentage points), followed by attentiveness towards one’s personal health (31.0 percentage points). Respondents with a duration of illness of less than 10 years (19.5 percentage points), employed respondents (7.5 percentage points), as well as respondents with a high socioeconomic status (24.7 percentage points) were more likely to show suboptimal forms of diabetes self-management.

Discussion

In the present nationwide population-based study, a large proportion of persons with diabetes showed suboptimal self-management behaviour. Participation in a DSME program was the strongest predictor of good self-management. Results underline the need for continual and consistent health education for patients with diabetes.
Un análisis criminológico de la victimización de las personas sin hogar en la ciudad de São Paulo
Authors: García Domínguez Isabel
Published: March 2021

La criminalización de la pobreza y la selectividad del sistema penal, características del actual gobierno brasileño, han afectado, especialmente, al colectivo de personas sin hogar, cuyo aumento en la ciudad de São Paulo es una constante. Asimismo, la discriminación y la victimización penal, principalmente violenta, es una dinámica experimentada por estos sujetos durante los últimos años en la metrópoli mencionada. Con relación a lo expresado, las tipologías delictivas que más sufren son las agresiones físicas y/o verbales, unidos a los robos y/o hurtos, estableciéndose los porcentajes más bajos en la violencia sexual. Además, estos delitos son cometidos por diferentes autores, entre los cuales se destacan las fuerzas policiales. Igualmente, diversos estudios han sostenido que la motivación de la violencia que sufren las personas en situación de sinhogarismo se haya en el fenómeno aporófobo. En consecuencia, es necesario emprender una lucha contra la victimización penal que se ejerce en el colectivo de personas sin hogar de la ciudad de São Paulo.
Creating Panoramic Images for Bladder Fluorescence Endoscopy
Authors: Behrens A.
Published: March 2021

The medical diagnostic analysis and therapy of urinary bladder cancer based on endoscopes are state of the art in urological medicine. Due to the limited field of view of endoscopes, the physician can examine only a small part of the whole operating field at once. This constraint makes visual control and navigation difficult, especially in hollow organs. A panoramic image, covering a larger field of view, can overcome this difficulty. Directly motivated by a physician we developed an image mosaicing algorithm for endoscopic bladder fluorescence video sequences. In this paper, we present an approach which is capable of stitching single endoscopic video images to a combined panoramic image. Based on SIFT features we estimate a 2-D homography for each image pair, using an affine model and an iterative model-fitting algorithm. We then apply the stitching process and perform a mutual linear interpolation. Our panoramic image results show a correct stitching and lead to a better overview and understanding of the operation field.
Influence of a Point-to-Plane DC Negative Corona Discharge on Gel Surfaces
Authors: Klenko Y. , Scholtz V.
Published: March 2021

Point-to-plane corona discharge is widely used for modifying polymer surfaces for biomedical applications and for sterilization and decontamination. This paper focuses on an experimental investigation of the influence of the single-point and multi-point corona discharge electric field on gel surface. Three types of gelatinous agar were used as the gel medium: blood agar, nutrient agar and Endo agar. The gel surface modification was studied for various time periods and discharge currents.
Dissipative Heating in a Rotational Viscometer with Coaxial Cylinders
Authors: Rieger F.
Published: March 2021

Rotational viscometers with coaxial cylinders are often used for measuring rheological behaviour. If the inner to outer cylinder diameter ratio does not differ significantly from 1, the curvature can be neglected and the flow reduces to the flow between moving and stationary plates. The power-law and Bingham models are often used for describing rheological behaviour. This paper deals with the temperature distribution obtained by solving the Fourier-Kirchhoff equation and in the case of  negligible inner  heat resistance it also covers temperature time dependence. The solution is illustrated by a numerical example.
Rock Burst Mechanics: Insight from Physical and Mathematical Modelling
Authors: Vacek J. , Vacek J. , Chocholoušová J.
Published: March 2021

Rock burst processes in mines are studied by many groups active in the field of geomechanics. Physical and mathematical modelling can be used to better understand the phenomena and mechanisms involved in the bursts. In the present paper we describe both physical and mathematical models of a rock burst occurring in a gallery of a coal mine.For rock bursts (also called bumps) to occur, the rock has to possess certain particular rock burst properties leading to accumulation of energy and the potential to release this energy. Such materials may be brittle, or the rock burst may arise at the interfacial zones of two parts of the rock, which have principally different material properties (e.g. in the Poíbram uranium mines).The solution is based on experimental and mathematical modelling. These two methods have to allow the problem to be studied on the basis of three presumptions:· the solution must be time dependent,· the solution must allow the creation of cracks in the rock mass,· the solution must allow an extrusion of rock into an open space (bump effect).
Properties of Starch Based Foams Made by Thermal Pressure Forming
Authors: Štancl J. , Skočilas J. , Šesták J. , Žitný R.
Published: March 2021

Packaging materials based on expanded polystyrene can be substituted by biodegradable foam, manufactured by direct or indirect electrical heating of a potato starch suspension in a closed mold. This paper deals with an experimental evaluation of selected properties of potato starch and starch foam related to this technology: density, specific heat capacity and specific electrical conductivity of a water suspension of potato starch within the temperature range up to 100 °C, and mass fraction from 5 to 65 %. The electric conductivity and heat capacity changes were observed during direct ohmic heating of a starch suspension between electrodes in a closed cell (feeding voltage 100 V, frequency 50 Hz). Specific electric conductivity increases with temperature, with the exception of the gelatinization region at 60 to 70 °C, and decreases with increasing concentration of starch (the temperature and concentration dependencies were approximated using the Lorentz equation). Direct ohmic heating is restricted by a significant decrease in effective electrical conductivity above a temperature of 100 °C, when evaporated steam worsens the contact with the electrodes. Experiments show that when direct ohmic heating is not combined with indirect contact heating, only 20 % of the water can be evaporated from manufactured samples and the starch foam is not fully formed. This is manifested by only a slight expansion of the heated sample. Only the indirect contact heating from the walls of the mold, with the wall temperature above 180 °C, forms a fixed porous structure (expansion of about 300 %) and a crust, ensuring suitable mechanical and thermal insulation properties of the manufactured product. The effective thermal conductivity of the foamed product (sandwich plates with a porous core and a compact crust) was determined by the heated wire method, while the porosity of the foam and the thickness of the crust were evaluated by image analysis of colored cross sections of manufactured samples. While the porosity is almost constant, the thickness of the crust is approximately proportional to the thickness of the plate.
Calculation of a Tunnel Cross Section Subjected to Fire – with a New Advanced Transient Concrete Model for Reinforced Structures
Authors: Schneider U. , Schneider M. , Franssen J.-M.
Published: March 2021

The paper presents the structural application of a new thermal induced strain model for concrete – the TIS-Model. An advanced transient concrete model (ATCM) is applied with the material model of the TIS-Model. The non-linear model comprises thermal strain, elastic strain, plastic strain and transient temperature strains, and load history modelling of restraint concrete structures subjected to fire.The calculations by finite element analysis (FEA) were done using the SAFIR structural code. The FEA software was basically new with respect to the material modelling derived to use the new TIS-Model (as a transient model considers thermal induced strain). The equations of the ATCM consider a lot of capabilities, especially for considering irreversible effects of temperature on some material properties. By considering the load history during heating up, increasing load bearing capacity may be obtained due to higher stiffness of the concrete. With this model, it is possible to apply the thermal-physical behaviour of material laws for calculation of structures under extreme temperature conditions.A tunnel cross section designed and built by the cut and cover method is calculated with a tunnel fire curve. The results are compared with the results of a calculation with the model of the Eurocode 2 (EC2-Model). The effect of load history in highly loaded structures under fire load will be investigated.A comparison of this model with the ordinary calculation system of Eurocode 2 (EC2) shows that a better evaluation of the safety level was achieved with the new model. This opens a space for optimizing concrete structure design with transient temperature conditions up to 1000 °C.
Calculation of the Electromagnetic Field Around a Microtubule
Authors: Havelka D. , Cifra M.
Published: March 2021

Microtubules are important structures in the cytoskeleton which organizes the cell. A single microtubule is composed of electrically polar structures, tubulin heterodimers, which have a strong electric dipole moment. Vibrations are expected to be generated in microtubules, thus tubulin heterodimers oscillate as electric dipoles. This gives rise to an electromagnetic field which is detected around the cells. We calculate here the electromagnetic field of microtubules if they are excited at 1 GHz. This paper includes work done for the bachelor thesis of the first author.
A New Buck-Boost Converter for a Hybrid-Electric Drive Stand
Authors: Mašek P.
Published: March 2021

This paper describes work on the laboratory working stand for a hybrid-electric drive located in laboratory T2:H1-26.The basic idea is to operate the combustion engine in its optimal regime. In this regime the engine has the highest efficiency and minimal smoke exhaust. This optimal regime is only a small portion of its operation area. Because the engine has to operate in this area, it is necessary to add a new converter to the hybrid-electric stand. The new converter must be allowed to buck and boost and must operate as a current source in this regime.
Design of a Predictive Hierarchical Controller Using FEMLAB
Authors: Rehák B.
Published: March 2021

A hierarchical controller with two levels is proposed. One level is based on dynamic optimization while the second is responsible for tracking the optimal trajectory and rejecting disturbances. Its implementation using the FEMLAB system is described. Some simulations are presented at the end of the paper, together with an evaluation of the performance.
Genetic Algorithm Based Control System Design of a Self-Excited Induction Generator
Authors: Attia A.-F. , Soliman H. , Sabry M.
Published: March 2021

This paper presents an application of the genetic algorithm (GA) for optimizing controller gains of the Self-Excited Induction Generator (SEIG) driven by the Wind Energy Conversion Scheme (WECS). The proposed genetic algorithm is introduced to adapt the integral gains of the conventional controllers of the active and reactive control loop of the system under study, where GA calculates the optimum value for the gains of the variables based on the best dynamic performance and a domain search of the integral gains. The proposed genetic algorithm is used to regulate the terminal voltage or reactive power control, by adjusting the self excitation, and to control the mechanical input power or active power control by adapting the blade angle of WECS, in order to adjust the stator frequency. The GA is used for optimizing these gains, for an active and reactive power loop, by solving the related optimization problem. The simulation results show a better dynamic performance using the GA than using the conventional PI controller for active and reactive control.
Financing of Liabilities Beyond the Service Life of Nuclear Installations
Authors: Havlíček L.
Published: March 2021

Operation of a nuclear installation is connected with the creation of long-term liabilities for spent fuel management and disposal, and also decommissioning of the installation (power plant, storages). This means that the operator will have to expend considerable amount of financial resources over a long period after the closure of installation. These financial resources will have to be created during operation of the installation. Related costs to be expended in future must be fully included in the price of electricity, in order to ensure fair competition among different operators. Financial resources for future coverage of liabilities must be continuously invested in order to compensate for inflation and to gain some real interest.Any failure by the operator to comply with its liabilities poses an economic and potentially an environmental hazard for operator’s country. Due attention must therefore be paid to assessing connected costs, defining liabilities and ensuring appropriate regulatory oversight. Appropriate measures must be well defined and firmly anchored in the legislation of countries operating nuclear installations. This paper reviews the basic principles that should ensure operator’s compliance their liabilities, and maps the current situation in the Czech Republic.
Quality Control in Automated Manufacturing Processes – Combined Features for Image Processing
Authors: Kuhlenkötter B. , Zhang X. , Krewet C.
Published: March 2021

In production processes the use of image processing systems is widespread. Hardware solutions and cameras respectively are available for nearly every application. One important challenge of image processing systems is the development and selection of appropriate algorithms and software solutions in order to realise ambitious quality control for production processes. This article characterises the development of innovative software by combining features for an automatic defect classification on product surfaces. The artificial intelligent method Support Vector Machine (SVM) is used to execute the classification task according to the combined features. This software is one crucial element for the automation of a manually operated production process.
Ergonomic Optimization of a Manufacturing System Work Cell in a Virtual Environment
Authors: Caputo F. , Gironimo G. Di , Marzano A.
Published: March 2021

The paper deals with the development of a methodology for studying, in a virtual environment, the ergonomics of a work cell in an automotive manufacturing system. The methodology is based on the use of digital human models and virtual reality techniques in order to simulate, in a virtual environment, human performances during the execution of assembly operations. The objective is to define the optimum combination of those geometry features that influence human postures during assembly operation in a work cell. In the demanding global marketplace, ensuring that human factors are comprehensively addressed is becoming an increasingly important aspect of design. Manufacturers have to design work cells that conform to all relevant Health and Safety standards. The proposed methodology can assist the designer to evaluate the performance of workers in a workplace before it has been realized. The paper presents an analysis of a case study proposed by COMAU, a global supplier of industrial automation systems for the automotive manufacturing sector and a global provider of full maintenance services. The study and all the virtual simulations have been carried out in the Virtual Reality Laboratory of the Competence Regional Center for the qualification of transportation systems (CRdC “Trasporti” - www.centrodicompetenzatrasporti.unina. it), which was founded by the Campania region with the aim of delivering advanced services and introducing new technologies into local companies operating in the field of transport.
Optimal (Comfortable) Operative Temperature Estimation Based on Physiological Responses of the Human Organism
Authors: Jokl M. V. , Kabele K.
Published: March 2021

Problems following the application of optimal operative temperatures estimated on the basis of PMV and the necessity to apply correct values in the new Czech Government Directive No. 523/2002 Code led to experiments based on the physiological human body response instead of solely people’s feelings in a given environment. On the basis of experiments on 32 subjects (university students) it has been possible to estimate: a) the total balance of hygrothermal flows between the human body and the environment, b) the optimal operative temperature as a function of the subject’s activity, c) the thermoregulatory range for each optimal operative temperature, i.e. maximal (category Cmax) limited by the onset of sweating, minimal (category Cmin) limited by the onset of shivering (category C can be applied to naturally ventilated buildings), optimal (comfort level – category A) defined by time constant 0.368 (can be applied to air conditioned buildings), and submaximum (decreased comfort level – category B) defined by time constant 0.632 (can be applied to buildings with basic air conditioning systems).
Determination of Rheological Parameters from Measurements on a Viscometer with Coaxial Cylinders – Choice of the Reference Radius
Authors: Rieger F.
Published: March 2021

Knowledge about rheological behavior is necessary in engineering calculations for equipment used for processing concentrated suspensions and polymers. Power-law and Bingham models are often used for evaluating the experimental data. This paper proposes the reference radius to which experimental results obtained by measurements on a rotational viscometer with coaxial cylinders should be related.
Influence of Different Speech Representations and HMM Training Strategies on ASR Performance
Authors: Bořil H. , Fousek P.
Published: March 2021

This work studies the influence of various speech signal representations and speaking styles on the performance of automatic speech recognition (ASR).  The efficiency of two approaches to hidden Markov model (HMM) training are compared.Common MFCC and PLP features were exposed to two sources of disturbance applied to the original wide-band speech: (i) stress (Lombard effect) and (ii) transfer channel distortion (simulated telephone line). Subsequently, the efficiencies of the two training strategies were evaluated. Finally, a study of the optimal number of training iterations is introduced.
Fuzzy Algorithm for Supervisory Voltage/Frequency Control of a Self Excited Induction Generator
Authors: Soliman Hussein F. , Attia Abdel-Fattah , Mokhymar S. M. , Badr M. A. L.
Published: March 2021

This paper presents the application of a Fuzzy Logic Controller (FLC) to regulate the voltage of a Self Excited Induction Generator (SEIG) driven by Wind Energy Conversion Schemes (WECS). The proposed FLC is used to tune the integral gain (KI) of a Proportional plus Integral (PI) controller. Two types of controls, for the generator and for the wind turbine, using a FLC algorithm, are introduced in this paper. The voltage control is performed to adapt the terminal voltage via self excitation. The frequency control is conducted to adjust the stator frequency through tuning the pitch angle of the WECS blades. Both controllers utilize the Fuzzy technique to enhance the overall dynamic performance.  The simulation result depicts a better dynamic response for the system under study during the starting period, and the load variation. The percentage overshoot, rising time and oscillation are better with the fuzzy controller than with the PI controller type.
Structure of the Enveloping Algebras
Authors: Burdík Č. , Navrátil O. , Pošta S.
Published: March 2021

The adjoint representations of several small dimensional Lie algebras  on their universal enveloping algebras  are explicitly decomposed. It is shown that commutants of raising operators are generated as polynomials in several basic elements. The explicit form of these elements is given and the general method for obtaining  these elements is described.
Pseudo-Hermitian Operators in a Description of Physical Systems
Authors: Jakubský V.
Published: March 2021

We present some basic features of pseudo-hermitian quantum mechanics and illustrate the use of pseudo-hermitian Hamiltonians in a description of physical systems.