bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decomposition stages as a clue for estimating the post-mortem interval in carcasses and providing accurate bird collision rates
Authors: Moraleda Virginia , Gómez-Catasús Julia , Schuster Claudia , Carrascal Luis M.
Published: September 2022

The estimation of the post-mortem interval is crucial to accurately provide bird collision rates against manmade infrastructures. Standard methodologies recommend initially clearing all carcasses to ensure that subsequent collisions can be attributed to known time intervals. In this study, we propose a more cost-efficient approach aiming to link the decomposition stages as unequivocally as possible to the most likely time elapsed since death. Factors influencing the decomposition stages of bird carcasses were evaluated by means of two experiments. Firstly, we examined carcasses of large birds in three seasons differing in temperature, sun radiation and humidity: summer, autumn and spring. Secondly, we tested the influence of body mass in the same season (spring) using small, medium-sized and large bird carcasses. Results showed that the decomposition score increased monotonically with time, attaining the highest magnitude effect. A carcass with a decomposition score ≥ 4 (skeletal reduction) was in the field for ≥ 15 days, whereas a carcass with a score < 3 (fresh or emphysematous) was exposed < 3 days. Decomposition scores were higher in summer and did not differ among carcass sizes. This study provides an alternative protocol to estimate the post-mortem interval in wild birds in studies in search of bird fatalities.
A voting-based ensemble feature network for semiconductor wafer defect classification
Authors: Misra Sampa , Kim Donggyu , Kim Jongbeom , Shin Woncheol , Kim Chulhong
Published: September 2022

Semiconductor wafer defects severely affect product development. In order to reduce the occurrence of defects, it is necessary to identify why they occur, and it can be inferred by analyzing the patterns of defects. Automatic defect classification (ADC) is used to analyze large amounts of samples. ADC can reduce human resource requirements for defect inspection and improve inspection quality. Although several ADC systems have been developed to identify and classify wafer surfaces, the conventional ML-based ADC methods use numerous image recognition features for defect classification and tend to be costly, inefficient, and time-consuming. Here, an ADC technique based on a deep ensemble feature framework (DEFF) is proposed that classifies different kinds of wafer surface damage automatically. DEFF has an ensemble feature network and the final decision network layer. The feature network learns features using multiple pre-trained convolutional neural network (CNN) models representing wafer defects and the ensemble features are computed by concatenating these features. The decision network layer decides the classification labels using the ensemble features. The classification performance is further enhanced by using a voting-based ensemble learning strategy in combination with the deep ensemble features. We show the efficacy of the proposed strategy using the real-world data from SK Hynix.
Clinical association between tacrolimus intra-patient variability and liver transplantation outcomes in patients with and without hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Kim Hyun Jeong , Lee Juhan , Lee Jae Geun , Joo Dong Jin , Kim Myoung Soo
Published: September 2022

Tacrolimus is the mainstay of immunosuppression in liver transplantation to prevent rejection. However, the clinical use of tacrolimus is complicated by its narrow therapeutic window and significant intra-patient variability (IPV). High tacrolimus IPV is associated with overexposure and adverse effects, including malignancy. The effects of tacrolimus IPV in liver transplant recipients with and without hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are unknown. We investigated the association between tacrolimus IPV and transplant outcomes in 636 liver transplant patients. Tacrolimus IPV was determined by calculating the coefficient of variance (CV) of outpatient tacrolimus trough levels from 3 to 12 months after transplantation. High tacrolimus IPV was defined as CV > 30%. Patients were grouped according to tacrolimus IPV and HCC status. Among 636 liver transplant patients, 349 had HCC and 287 had no HCC. Overall survival in HCC patients was significantly reduced with high tacrolimus IPV (P < 0.001), whereas survival of non-HCC patients was not associated with tacrolimus IPV. Multivariable analysis confirmed the independent association between high tacrolimus IPV and overall mortality in HCC patients (HR, 3.010; 95% CI, 1.084–4.918). HCC recurred in 59 patients (16.9%) post-transplantation. After adjusting for donor/recipient factors, immunosuppression, and tumor characteristics, high tacrolimus IPV was independently associated with an increased risk of HCC recurrence (HR, 2.196; 95% CI, 1.272–3.791). High tacrolimus IPV was associated with significantly increased risks of overall mortality and HCC recurrence in liver transplant recipients with HCC.
Examination of risk exposure models during COVID-19 in relation to youth life satisfaction and internalizing symptoms
Authors: Snetselaar Romy S. , Liber Juliëtte M. , Geurts Suzanne M. , Koning Ina M.
Published: September 2022

This study examined mediation of a negative COVID-impact on the relationship between risk exposure, and life satisfaction and internalizing symptoms in youth (aged 9–18). Four operationalizations of risk exposure were applied; an Additive versus a Cumulative Risk Model (ARM and CRM), risk clusters and the most salient risk factors. Results showed that a stronger negative COVID-impact is related to lower life satisfaction, more internalizing symptoms and higher additive and cumulative risk. ARM and CRM’s effect on lower life satisfaction is mediated through negative COVID-impact, though not for internalizing symptoms. Clusters of risk factors and risk factors within clusters significantly related to a stronger negative COVID-impact are the clusters ‘Individual factors’ (low self-control), ‘Parenting’ (negative mother–child interaction and low parental responsiveness), ‘Maternal mental health’ and ‘Demographic factors’ (low SES and high paternal education). From all significant risk factors, low self-control, low parental responsiveness, negative mother–child interaction and low SES were most salient.
Improvement of CZTSSe film quality and superstrate solar cell performance through optimized post-deposition annealing
Authors: Pakštas V. , Grincienė G. , Selskis A. , Balakauskas S. , Talaikis M. , Bruc L. , Curmei N. , Niaura G. , Franckevičius M.
Published: September 2022

Improving the performance of kesterite solar cells requires high-quality, defect-free CZTS(Se) films with a reduced number of secondary phases and impurities. Post-annealing of the CZTS films at high temperatures in a sulfur or selenium atmosphere is commonly used to improve the quality of the absorbing material. However, annealing at high-temperatures can promote material decomposition, mainly due to the loss of volatile elements such as tin or sulfur. In this work, we investigate how the additional step of sulfurization at reduced temperatures affects the quality and performance of CZTSSe based solar cells. A comprehensive structural analysis using conventional and high resolution XRD as well as Raman spectroscopy revealed that the highest CZTSSe material quality with the lowest structural disorder and defect densities was obtained from the CZTS films pre-sulfurized at 420 °C. Furthermore, we demonstrate the possibility of using Sb2Se3as a buffer layer in the superstrate configuration of CZTSSe solar cells, which is possible alternative to replace commonly employed toxic CdS as a buffer layer. We show that the additional low-temperature selenization process and the successful use of Sb2Se3as a buffer layer could improve the performance of CZTSSe-based solar cells by up to 3.48%, with an average efficiency of 3.1%.
Assessing the fitness of a dual-antiviral drug resistant human influenza virus in the ferret model
Authors: Stannard Harry L. , Mifsud Edin J. , Wildum Steffen , Brown Sook Kwan , Koszalka Paulina , Shishido Takao , Kojima Satoshi , Omoto Shinya , Baba Keiko , Kuhlbusch Klaus , Hurt Aeron C. , Barr Ian G.
Published: September 2022

Influenza antivirals are important tools in our fight against annual influenza epidemics and future influenza pandemics. Combinations of antivirals may reduce the likelihood of drug resistance and improve clinical outcomes. Previously, two hospitalised immunocompromised influenza patients, who received a combination of a neuraminidase inhibitor and baloxavir marboxil, shed influenza viruses resistant to both drugs. Here-in, the replicative fitness of one of these A(H1N1)pdm09 virus isolates with dual resistance mutations (NA-H275Y and PA-I38T) was similar to wild type virus (WT) in vitro, but reduced in the upper respiratory tracts of challenged ferrets. The dual-mutant virus transmitted well between ferrets in an airborne transmission model, but was outcompeted by the WT when the two viruses were co-administered. These results indicate the dual-mutant virus had a moderate loss of viral fitness compared to the WT virus, suggesting that while person-to-person transmission of the dual-resistant virus may be possible, widespread community transmission is unlikely.
Direct observation of mass-dependent collisionless energy transfer via Landau and transit-time damping
Authors: Ida Katsumi , Kobayashi Tatsuya , Yoshinuma Mikirou , Nagaoka Kenichi , Ogawa Kunihiro , Tokuzawa Tokihiko , Nuga Hideo , Katoh Yuto
Published: September 2022

The energy transfer from wave to particle occurs in collisionless plasma through the interaction between particle and wave, associated with the deformation of ion velocity space from Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution. Here we show the direct observation of mass-dependent collisionless energy transfer via Landau and transit-time damping in a laboratory plasma. The Landau and transit-time damping are confirmed by the bipolar velocity-space signature of the ion velocity distribution function, measured by fast charge exchange spectroscopy with a time resolution less than ion-ion collision time. The excellent agreement between the resonant phase velocity evaluated from the bipolar velocity-space signature and the wave’s phase velocity, estimated from the frequency of the magnetohydrodynamics oscillation measured with the plasma displacement is clear evidence for the Landau damping. The energy transfer from solitary wave to fully ionized carbon impurity ions is larger than that of bulk ions 2-3 times due to heavier mass.
Vapor detection and vapor pressure measurements of fentanyl and fentanyl hydrochloride salt at ambient temperatures
Authors: Ewing Robert G. , Nims Megan K. , Morrison Kelsey A. , Hart Garret L. , Avalos Nancy M. , Denis Elizabeth H.
Published: September 2022

Non-contact, real-time vapor detection of fentanyl and fentanyl hydrochloride was demonstrated at ambient conditions, and vapor pressure values were measured.
Seed-directed synthesis of chiroptically active Au nanocrystals of varied symmetries
Authors: Googasian Jack S. , Lewis George R. , Woessner Zachary J. , Ringe Emilie , Skrabalak Sara E.
Published: September 2022

Chiral plasmonic nanocrystals with varied symmetries were synthesized by l-glutathione-guided overgrowth from Au tetrahedra, nanoplates, and octahedra, highlighting the importance of chiral molecule adsorption at transient kink sites.
State-to-state photodissociation dynamics of CO2 at 157 nm
Authors: Zhang Zhiguo , Xin Min , Xin Yu , Zhao Shutao , Jin Yanling , Wu Guorong , Dai Dongxu , Chen Zhichao , Sakkoula Evangelia , Parker David H. , Yuan Kaijun , Yang Xueming
Published: September 2022

State-to-state photodissociation of CO2(v2 = 0 and 1) at 157 nm via the O(1D) + CO(X1Σ+) channel was studied by using the sliced velocity map imaging technique.
Controls on the photochemical production of hydrogen peroxide in Lake Erie
Authors: Pandey Dhurba Raj , Polik Catherine , Cory Rose M.
Published: September 2022

Photochemical production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) may not the dominant source of H2O2 in Lake Erie, where toxin-forming harmful algal blooms follow high concentrations of H2O2.
Covalent drugs targeting histidine – an unexploited opportunity?
Authors: Che Jianwei , Jones Lyn H.
Published: September 2022

Targeted covalent modulation of histidine in ligand binding sites will expand the druggable proteome.
A simple and low-cost electrochemical sensor based on a graphite sheet electrode modified by carboxylated multiwalled carbon nanotubes and gold nanoparticles for detection of acyclovir
Authors: Abedini Simin , Rafati Amir Abbas , Ghaffarinejad Ali
Published: September 2022

A novel method for the preparation of inexpensive and practical electrodes in order to commercialize sensors with high sensitivity and responsiveness.
A fluorogenic sensor forin situtracking of viscosity in response to cellular inflammatory stress
Authors: Liu Shuangshuang , Yue Yundi , Hao Shiqi , Huang Shuhong , Lin Xuefen , Yin Junling
Published: September 2022

Exploring the changes in intracellular viscosity in response to inflammatory stress is of great significance for the detection and treatment of various diseases.
Exploring the boundaries of ferrocenesulfonyl fluoride chemistry
Authors: Erb William , Hurvois Jean-Pierre , Halauko Yury S. , Matulis Vadim E. , Roisnel Thierry
Published: September 2022

The first general study dedicated to hetero polysubstituted ferrocenesulfonyl fluorides is described. Their chemical behaviour in various reaction conditions is reported as well as their electrochemical properties.
Iron-catalyzed regioselective protoboration of alkenes on N-heterocycles
Authors: Zou Chenchen , Zhang Chun
Published: September 2022

A novel iron-catalyzed highly regioselective protoboration of alkenes on N-heterocycles has been developed. A series of N-heterocyclic C3-organoborides, each displaying the same skeletal structure as displayed by various pharmaceutical compounds, were accessed.
Construction of a novel electrochemical sensor based on biomass material nanocellulose and its detection of acetaminophen
Authors: Liu Sichen , Yu Yanbo , Ni Kelu , Liu Tongda , Gu Min , Wu Yingchen , Du Guanben , Ran Xin
Published: September 2022

In this work, acidic sulfated cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) were used as green carriers, and a novel composite material was synthesized and used to design sensors for paracetamol (AP) detection.
Femtosecond coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy study of vibrational dynamics of liquid chloroform
Authors: Wu Honglin , Song Yunfei , Zeng YangYang , Zhu Gangbei , Yu Guoyang , Yang Yanqiang
Published: September 2022

The vibrational dynamics of liquid chloroform was systematically investigated using femtosecond CARS. Subtle features (such as overtones and combinations) and contributions of chlorine isotopes were confirmed from the CARS transients.
Comparison of water desalination performance of porous graphene and MoS2 nanosheets
Authors: Song Zailing , Niu Yunlong , Yang Juan , Chen Liang , Chen Junlang
Published: September 2022

(1) The water flux of MoS2 is higher than that of graphene with similar pore area regardless of whether monolayer or bilayer. (2) A monolayer has higher water flux than a bilayer. In contrast, a monolayer has lower ion rejection than a bilayer.
Electronic, mechanical and piezoelectric properties of glass-like complex Na2Si1−xGexO3 (x = 0.0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, 1.0)
Authors: Zosiamliana R. , Chettri B. , Fabris G. S. L. , Sambrano J. R. , Abdullaev Sherzod , Abdurakhmanov G. , Rai D. P.
Published: September 2022

Motivated by our previous work on pristine Na2SiO3, we proceeded with calculations on the structural, electronic, mechanical and piezoelectric properties of complex glass-like Na2Si1−xGexO3 (x = 0.0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, 1.0) by using density functional theory (DFT).
Fluorescence determination of Fe(iii) in drinking water using a new fluorescence chemosensor
Authors: Khairy Gasser M. , Amin Alaa S. , Moalla Sayed M. N. , Medhat Ayman , Hassan Nader
Published: September 2022

A new fluorescence chemosensor based on (Z)-2-(1-(3-oxo-3H-benzo[f]chromen-2-yl)ethylidene)hydrazine-1-carbothioamide (CEHC) has been developed for the determination of the fluorescence probe of Fe(iii) in drinking water.
Improving the efficiency of n-Si/PEDOT:PSS hybrid solar cells by incorporating AuNP-decorated graphene oxide as a nanoadditive for conductive polymers
Authors: Van Tu Nguyen , Anh Nguyen Ngoc , Van Hau Tran , Van Hao Nguyen , Huyen Nguyen Thi , Thang Bui Hung , Minh Phan Ngoc , Van Chuc Nguyen , Fukata Naoki , Van Trinh Pham
Published: September 2022

A GO-AuNP hybrid material was successfully prepared and used for improving the performance of the optoelectronics devices.
The influence of degree of labelling upon cellular internalisation of antibody-cell penetrating peptide conjugates
Authors: Pringle Toni A. , Coleman Oliver , Kawamura Akane , Knight James C.
Published: September 2022

A systematic investigation into the influence of degree of labelling of antibody-cell penetrating peptide conjugates upon cellular internalisation.
Insights into gold-catalyzed formation of aza-heterocycles using benzofuroxans as nitrene transfer reagents: mechanism and origins of chemoselectivity
Authors: Wu Weirong , Liang Jiehui , Jiang Biaolin , Tian Xiaoxuan , Li Tingzhen
Published: September 2022

DFT calculations were employed to study the mechanism and origin of chemoselectivity of gold-catalyzed annulation of N-allylynamides and benzofuroxans as nitrene transfer reagents.
Preparation and performance study of a reactive polyurethane hot-melt adhesive/CS–Fe3O4 magnetic nanocomposite film/fabric
Authors: Wang Qiushi , Feng Ziqin , He Caiting , Liu Tianwei , Lu Hailin , Sun Runjun
Published: September 2022

Magnetic nanoparticles are attracting significant attention for their wide application as biomaterials and magnetic storage materials. As an environmentally friendly adhesive, reactive polyurethane hot-melt adhesive is a biocompatible polymer with a range of applications.
Deciphering and reprogramming the cyclization regioselectivity in bifurcation of indole alkaloid biosynthesis
Authors: Wang Zhuo , Xiao Yiren , Wu Song , Chen Jianghua , Li Ang , Tatsis Evangelos C.
Published: September 2022

Discovery of a cytochrome P450 which synthesizes the plant-derived alkaloid scaffold of methanoquinolizidine is reported. Additionally, an ADH reductase and a BAHD acyltransferase were discovered to complete the biosynthesis of alkaloid akummiline.
A bioactive poly(ether-ether-ketone) nanocomposite scaffold regulates osteoblast/osteoclast activity for the regeneration of osteoporotic bone
Authors: Zhao Mengen , Chen Guo , Zhang Shixiong , Chen Bin , Wu Zhaoying , Zhang Chao
Published: September 2022

The ASP composite scaffold promoted osteogenesis and inhibited osteoclastogenesis, which could serve as a bioactive material for bone regeneration of osteoporotic defects.
Early diagnostic imaging of pneumonia with an ultra-sensitive two-photon near-infrared fluorescent probe
Authors: Song Erwang , Lai Youbo , Lu Huixu , Tang Yonghe , Zeng Lintao , Lin Weiying
Published: September 2022

The mortality rate of pneumonia increases significantly with the prolongation of illness.
Optimizing chain alignment and preserving the pristine structure of single-ether based PBTTT helps improve thermoelectric properties in sequentially doped thin films
Authors: Zeng Huiyan , Durand Pablo , Guchait Shubhradip , Herrmann Laurent , Kiefer Céline , Leclerc Nicolas , Brinkmann Martin
Published: September 2022

Optimal polymer film orientation by high-temperature rubbing and doping with F6TCNNQ leads to charge conductivities of 2–5 × 104 S cm−1 and thermoelectric power factors >2.0 mW m−1 K−2 for a new PBTTT with a single ether function in the side chain.
Y2O3-YAG:Ce composite phosphor ceramics with enhanced light extraction efficiency for solid-state laser lighting
Authors: Fang Hailiang , Zhou Beiying , Wang Jiancheng , Hu Xiaobo , Pan Zesheng , Fan Shengjie , Huang Ping , Gu Shijia , Wang Lianjun , Jiang Wan
Published: September 2022

Optimized Y2O3-YAG:Ce composite phosphor ceramics with designed microstructures were prepared and well suited for solid-state laser lighting with high power and brightness.
Deep learning integrated reinforcement learning for adaptive beamforming in B5G networks
Authors: Eappen Geoffrey , Cosmas John , T Shankar , A Rajesh , Nilavalan Rajagopal , Thomas Joji
Published: September 2022

In this paper, a deep learning integrated reinforcement learning (DLIRL) algorithm is proposed for comprehending intelligent beamsteering in Beyond Fifth Generation (B5G) networks. The smart base station in B5G networks aims to steer the beam towards appropriate user equipment based on the acquaintance of isotropic transmissions. The foremost methodology is to optimize beam direction through reinforcement learning that delivers significant improvement in signal to noise ratio (SNR). This includes alternate path finding during path obstruction and steering the beam appropriately between the smart base station and user equipment. The DLIRL is realized through supervised learning with deep neural networks and deep Q‐learning schemes. The proposed algorithm comprises of an online learning phase for training the weights and a working phase for carrying out the prediction. Results confirm that the performance of the B5G system is improved considerably as compared to its counterparts with a spectral efficiency of 11 bps/Hz at SNR = 10 dB for a bit error rate performance of 10−5. As compared to reinforced learning and deep neural network with a deviation of ±3o and ±5°, respectively, the DLIRL beamforming displays a deviation of ±2o. Moreover, the DLIRL can track the user equipment and steer the beam in its direction with an accuracy of 92%.
An integration of autonomic computing with multicore systems for performance optimization in Industrial Internet of Things
Authors: Shukla Surendra Kumar , Pant Bhaskar , Viriyasitavat Wattana , Verma Devvret , Kautish Sandeep , Dhiman Gaurav , Kaur Amandeep , Srihari Kannan , Mohanty Sachi Nandan
Published: September 2022

The goal of this work is to investigate how the self‐awareness characteristic of autonomic computing, paired with existing performance optimization rules, may be used in applications to minimise multi‐core processor performance concerns. The suggested self‐awareness technique can assist applications in self‐execution while also assisting other applications in executing in the system with optimal resource usage and reducing conflicts in a collaborative manner. It means self‐awareness is created in the application to get resources, schedules itself, running autonomically with respect to runtime variations in the applications and system parameters. Further, self‐aware applications would help collaboratively resolving the performance issues like; contention, bandwidth bottleneck, efficient task to core mapping, and performance monitoring through analysis in a dynamic collaborative multi‐core environment. To show the usefulness of this research, “Autonomic Computing Interface” (ACI) for is proposed Multicore systems. The proposed firmware as an interface between applications and the multi‐core system can dynamically handle performance issues with coordination of applications in an autonomic way. Also, in a highly dynamic execution environment the proposed runtime parameter tuning, existing performance improvement policies and self‐awareness approach in totality, for monitoring, analysis, and possibility for performance improvement would be effective as compared to the existing approaches which work in isolation.
Radial basis function‐based exoskeleton robot controller development
Authors: Hasan SK
Published: September 2022

The realisation of a model‐based controller for a robot with a higher degree of freedom requires a substantial amount of computational power. A high‐speed CPU is required to maintain a higher sampling rate. Multicore processors cannot boost the performance or reduce the execution time as the programs are sequentially structured. The neural network is a great tool to convert a sequentially structured program to an equivalent parallel architecture program. In this study, a radial basis function (RBF) neural network is developed for controlling 7 degrees of freedom of the human lower extremity exoskeleton robot. A realistic friction model is used for modelling joint friction. High trajectory tracking accuracies have been obtained. Evidence of computational efficiency has been observed. The stability analysis of the developed controller is presented. Analysis of variance is used to assess the controller's resilience to parameter variation. To show the effectiveness of the developed controller, a comparative study was performe between the developed RBF network‐based controller and Sliding Mode Controller, Computed Torque Controller, Adaptive controller, Linear Quadratic Regulator and Model Reference Computed Torque Controller.
Identification of WFRFT signals' parameter based on multi‐domain statistical features
Authors: Li Zhiyang , Mei Lin , Wang Ye , Ma Su , Zhang Qinyu
Published: September 2022

An efficient approach to recognize the parameter of the weighted‐type fractional Fourier transform signals based on the higher‐order cumulant is proposed. Due to the index additivity of weighted‐type fractional Fourier transform, the statistical features on different weighted fractional domains could be jointly considered, to overcome the problem of parameter ambiguity arising from the existing estimation methods based on higher‐order cumulant. This method can improve the ability of blind signal recognition no matter in a cooperative or non‐cooperative scenario.
Small‐signal stability assessment based on virtual regional eigenvalue
Authors: Cun Xin , Yan Rong , Geng Guangchao , Jiang Quanyuan
Published: September 2022

Small‐signal stability assessment (SSSA) plays a significant role in large‐scale power systems operation. Since the computational burden and unavailability of the detailed time‐varying model, it is practically difficult to use model‐based approaches to meet the real‐time demands of SSSA. Considering the neighbour eigenvalues share similar oscillation characteristics, this paper presents an efficient method for SSSA based on looking at the regions that include the neighbour eigenvalues of interest rather than the exact position of eigenvalues. After dividing the insufficient damping area into several regions, the limitations of existing data‐driven SSSA resulting from the uncertainty of critical eigenvalues are overcome by virtual regional eigenvalue (VRE), which is introduced to estimate the prominent eigenvalue of neighbour eigenvalues in each divided region. A composite structure based on Long short‐term memory is designed to accommodate the different number of eigenvalues, generate VRE and the boundary of eigenvalues in divided regions. The effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated by two different scale test systems.
A UAV‐based portable health clinic system for coronavirus hotspot areas
Authors: Qassab Mustafa Siham , Ali Qutaiba Ibrahim
Published: September 2022

This study applied the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines to redesign the Portable Health Clinic (PHC), as a Remote Healthcare System (RHS), for the spread of COVID‐19 containment. Additionally, the proposed drone‐based system not only collects people data but also classifies the case according to the main symptoms of coronavirus using the COVID‐19 triage process (CT‐process) based on the analysis of measurement readings taken from patients, where drones are used in a swarm as a PHC platform and are equipped with the required sensors and essential COVID‐19 medications for testing and treating people at their doorstep autonomously when a full curfew is imposed. This paper describes a complete framework and proposes currently in production hardware to build the suggested system, considering the effect of the extra payload weight on drone's durability. In addition, part of the proposed application was simulated using OPNET simulation tool. This work highlights the main aspects that should be considered when designing drone swarm‐based system and distributing the roles on system nodes with the main focus on the controlling messages for inter‐swarm and intra‐swarm communication and coordination.
A bidirectional two‐input step‐up DC–DC converter with high gain, continuous input current, and common‐ground for EVs and renewable energy systems
Authors: Karimi Hajiabadi Mostafa , Lahooti Eshkevari Alireza , Mosallanejad Ali
Published: September 2022

Here, a new two‐input step‐up DC–DC converter for electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy systems (RESs) is proposed. It requires few components and provides high step‐up voltage gain and high efficiency. The topology includes two input channels connected to two energy sources based on the “switch‐mode coupling” method. Sources supply the load via the proposed converter. Each source can charge another if it is rechargeable. The regenerative output side energy is also transmitted to the rechargeable source thanks to the bidirectional power transferring capability. Current sensitive resources can be employed as the converter operates with the continuous input current. The topology comprises only one main power switch located on the low‐voltage side; therefore, it is exposed to low voltage stress and can be readily picked up from low voltage rating semiconductors with small on‐resistance. Thanks to this feature, the conduction loss decreases considerably. The input and output terminals have a common ground. This paper demonstrates the theory and operating principle of the proposed topology. Experimental results are also presented and examined to verify the converter. For this purpose, a 48/400 V/1 kW prototype has been designed and built. Results confirm the converter and its operation.
Robust adaptive cubature Kalman filter for tracking manoeuvring target by wireless sensor network under noisy environment
Authors: Fang Xuming , Huang Dandan
Published: September 2022

The existing adaptive Kalman filters for tracking manoeuvring targets by wireless sensor networks can easily lose robustness when both the measurement and process noises are unknown and time‐varying, resulting in large positioning errors. To solve this problem, a wireless sensor network manoeuvring target tracking algorithm using a novel robust adaptive cubature Kalman filter is proposed. This innovative robust adaptive cubature Kalman filter consists of a derived third‐order biased noise statistic estimator and conventional cubature Kalman filter. This derived noise statistic estimator can simultaneously sense time‐varying and unknown measurement and process noises and ensure that the adaptive cubature Kalman filter's robustness is not lost. The robustness of the novel robust adaptive cubature Kalman filter is strictly proven in this study. Extensive practical experiments and numerical simulations show that the proposed robust adaptive cubature Kalman filter always has higher target tracking accuracy than other existing adaptive Kalman filters, regardless of whether the mobile target is manoeuvring or not, the noise is unknown or time‐varying, and the number of anchor nodes is few or many.
Experience of Kapandji technique in treating Colles’ fracture in central region of Vietnam
Authors: Dang Le Hoang Nam , Nguyen Ba Luu , Le Hong Phuc , Nguyen Thanh Thao , Le Nghi Thanh Nhan
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Extra-articular fractures of the distal radius, known as Colles’ fractures, are very common. The optimal management of Colles’ fracture is still controversial. The Kapandji technique is one option for orthopedic surgeons to maintain reduced fractures, however, the effectiveness of this method is no clear consensus. This study aims to access Colles’ fracture treatment by the Kapandji technique with our experiences. Methods: This prospective study of 33 patients treated with three K-wires intra-focal fractures by the Kapandji procedure for Colles’ fractures at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital in Vietnam between February 2017 and May 2019. The functional outcome of the patients was assessed by the demerit score system of Gartland and Werley, and the quality of reduction was elevated on radiographic as well at 3, 6, 12, and 24 weeks postoperative. Results: 33 patients’ mean age is 54.64 ± 18.00; After 24 weeks of postoperative follow-up, 78.79% presented excellent, 21.21% good, and there are not any fair or poor cases on the functional outcome. All patients achieved complete fracture union at 12 weeks postoperative. The average immediate postoperative radial length was 9.85 mm, the radial inclination was 20.64°, and the volar tilt was 9.2°. Conclusion: The study emphasizes that the Kapandji technique in Colles’ fracture treatment is simple and possible to bring a satisfactory outcome and fast recovery.
Geduld und Politik – die Verankerung der Balint-Arbeit in der
ärztlichen Weiterbildung in Deutschland*
Authors: Herzog Philipp
Published: September 2022

Im Vergleich der Mitgliedsländer der International Balint Federation
gehört Deutschland zu den Ländern mit den meisten ausgebildeten
Balint-Gruppenleitern. In der Medizinischen Aus- und Weiterbildung ist die
Teilnahme an Balint-Gruppen fest verankert in den Weiterbildungsordnungen der
Ärztekammern für eine Reihe von Facharztanerkennungen. Als
Bestandteil der Psychotherapierichtlinien der Kassenärztlichen
Bundesvereinigung ist die Balint-Gruppenarbeit in Deutschland seit Jahrzehnten
eine der wesentlichen Grundlagen für die Abrechnung der Leistungen der
Psychosomatischen Grundversorgung, die in allen klinischen Fachgebieten der
vertragsärztlichen Versorgung möglich ist. Der Artikel
analysiert die historischen und politischen Faktoren, die bei der Etablierung
der Balint-Arbeit in Deutschland seit 1970 beteiligt waren. Abschließend
werden die Bedrohung der Balint-Arbeit durch Entwertung der patientenzentrierten
Medizin im Rahmen sozioökonomischer Umwälzungen im
Gesundheitswesen sowie die Perspektiven für die Zukunft
erörtert.
Reduktion von diabetesbezogenem Distress bei Typ-1- und Typ-2-Diabetes durch eine kognitiv-verhaltenstherapeutische Gruppenintervention
Authors: Gomille-Hahn Lara , Grammes Jennifer , Lehnart Judith , Binz Christine , Koehn Sandra , Kubiak Thomas , Benecke Andrea
Published: September 2022

Das Stresserleben durch die Erkrankung Diabetes mellitus stellt für einen Großteil der betroffenen Personen oft eine deutliche Belastung dar, die sich negativ auf das Diabetes-Selbstmanagement und damit auf die Gesundheit der Betroffenen auswirken kann. Das Ziel der vorliegenden Studie war die Evaluation einer diabetesspezifischen kognitiv-verhaltenstherapeutischen Gruppentherapie zur Reduktion des Stresserlebens, bestehend aus sechs Sitzungen für Personen mit Typ-1- oder Typ-2-Diabetes. Vermittelt wurden Techniken zur Stressbewältigung, wie Achtsamkeit und Entspannungsübungen, sowie kognitive Techniken, die auf den Alltag mit der Diabeteserkrankung und damit verbundene Gedanken und Emotionen der Teilnehmenden bezogen waren. Von 52 Personen (51,9% mit Typ-1-Diabetes, 61,5% weiblich, Alter MW= 50,4 Jahre) lagen nach Studienteilnahme Fragebögen vor. Eine signifikante Verbesserung konnte im Problem Areas In Diabetes Questionnaire (Δ6.24 [95%-KI: 1.85–10.62], p=.006), dem Perceived Stress Survey (Δ2.93 [95%-KI: 1.59–4.26], p=.000) und der Diabetes Acceptance Scale (Δ5.5 [95%-KI: 9.07–1.93], p=.003) erreicht werden. Diese erwies sich auch im Follow-Up nach sechs Monaten als stabil. Der selbstberichtete HbA1c-Wert reduzierte sich im Befragungszeitraum bei der Teilstichprobe von N= 40, von der die Daten verfügbar waren, ebenfalls signifikant (Δ0.73 [95%-KI: 0.015–1.452], p=.046). Das Gruppentherapieprogramm zur Stressreduktion kann als eine niedrigschwellige, psychotherapeutische Interventionen zur Reduktion diabetesbezogener Belastungen angesehen werden. Es könnte ein hilfreiches primär- und sekundärpräventives Angebot für stressbelastete Menschen mit Diabetes in der Standardversorgung darstellen.
Outcomes of patients with hepaticojejunostomy anastomotic strictures undergoing endoscopic and percutaneous treatment
Authors: Choi Kevin Kyung Ho , Bonnichsen Mark , Liu Ken , Massey Saniya , Staudenmann Dominic , Saxena Payal , Kaffes Arthur John
Published: September 2022

Background and study aims The increase in hepaticojejunostomies has led to an increase in benign strictures of the anastomosis. Double balloon enteroscopy-assisted ERCP (DBE-ERCP) and percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) are treatment options; however, there is lack of long-term outcomes, with no consensus on management. We performed a retrospective study assessing the outcomes of patients referred for endoscopic management of hepaticojejunostomy anastomotic strictures (HJAS).

Patients and methods All consecutive patients at a tertiary institution underwent endoscopic intervention for suspected HJAS between 2009 and 2021 were enrolled.

Results Eighty-two subjects underwent DBE-ERCP for suspected HJAS. The technical success rate was 77 % (63/82). HJAS was confirmed in 41 patients. The clinical success rate for DBE-ERCP ± PTBD was 71 % (29/41). DBE-ERCP alone achieved clinical success in 49 % of patients (20/41). PTBD was required in 49 % (20/41). Dual therapy was required in 22 % (9/41). Those with liver transplant had less technical success compared to other surgeries (72.1 % vs 82.1 % P = 0.29), less clinical success with DBE-ERCP alone (40 % vs 62.5 % P = 0.16) and required more PTBD (56 % vs 37.5 % P = 0.25). All those with ischemic biliopathy (n = 9) required PTBD for clinical success, required more DBE-ERCP (4.4 vs 2.0, P = 0.004), more PTBD (4.7 vs 0.3, P < 0.0001), longer treatment duration (181.6 vs 99.5 days P = 0.12), and had higher rates of recurrence (55.6 % vs 30.3 % P = 0.18) compared to those with HJAS alone. Liver transplant was the leading cause of ischemic biliopathy (89 %). The overall adverse event rate was 7 %.

Conclusions DBE-ERCP is an effective diagnostic and therapeutic tool in those with altered gastrointestinal anatomy and is associated with low complication rates.
Creation of a Pilot Surgical Program for the Comprehensive Management of Patients with Congenital Urological Malformations
Authors: Fernandez Nicolas , Congote Juliana Villanueva , Varela Daniela , Prada Juan Guillermo , Zarante Ignacio , Seba Juan Enrique , Perez Jaime Francisco , Castellanos Julio Cesar
Published: September 2022

Objectives Congenital malformations constitute the first cause of morbidity and mortality in childhood in Latin America. That is why, since 2001, a surveillance system for congenital malformations has been implemented in Bogota - Colombia. However, despite the increase in detection, an impact on treatment has not been achieved. The present study describes our experience with a novel social program focused on congenital urologic disorders.

Methods The present manuscript is a retrospective observational study. We reviewed two national databases containing patients with congenital malformations. Patients were actively contacted to verify the status of the malformations. Children in whom the malformation was confirmed were offered a free consultation with a multidisciplinary group. After screening for surgical indications, patients were scheduled for surgery.

Results Between November 2018 and December 2019, 60 patients were identified. In total 44, attended the consultation; the remaining did not attend due to financial or travel limitations. The most common condition assessed was hypospadias. In total, 29 patients underwent surgery. The total cost of care was of US$ 5,800.

Conclusions Active search improves attention times and reduces the burden of disease. The limitations to be resolved include optimizing the transportation of patients and their families, which is a frequent limitation to access health care.
Evaluation of Newborns with Non-COVID-19 Pneumonia Hospitalized in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit during the COVID-19 Pandemic, Turkey, Izmir 2020–2021
Authors: Soysal Buse , Özdemir Senem Alkan , Gönüllü Ahmet , Kalkanlı Oğuz Han , Ayhan Fahri Yüce , Çalkavur Şebnem , Yıldırım Tülin Gökmen
Published: September 2022

Objective In this study, we aimed to compare the clinical, laboratory, and radiological findings of noncoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) viral agents in newborn infants hospitalized for lower respiratory tract infection during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods This prospective cross-sectional study conducted between 11 March 2020 and 31 July 2021 included neonates with lower respiratory tract infections admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit of the Dr. Behcet Uz Children's Hospital. Nasopharyngeal swab samples were taken from all hospitalized patients for multiplex respiratory polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) PCR. The detection of respiratory viral pathogens was performed by multiplex real-time PCR assay (Bosphore Respiratory Pathogens Panel Kit V4, Anatolia Geneworks, Turkey). Infants with SARS-CoV-2 PCR positivity were excluded from the study. Patients' data were obtained from the electronic medical registry system. The non-COVID-19 viruses of the cases were analyzed according to seasonal variation (in/off-season). The pulmonary findings of the cases were classified as normal, infiltration, air bronchogram, and reticulogranular appearance at the time of admission.

Results A total of 80 infants were included during the study period. A multiplex PCR test was performed to identify viral agents affecting the lower respiratory tract of infants; it was determined that 31% (25 out of 80) were respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), 41% (33 out of 80) were rhinovirus (Rhino), and the remaining portion (28%, 22 out of 80) were other viral agents (enterovirus, bocavirus, adenovirus, influenza, and parainfluenza). Compared with Rhino and other viral agents, RSV was detected most frequently in seasonal hospitalizations (p < 0.05). When chest radiography and laboratory findings were evaluated, the rate of “infiltration” /“lymphopenia” was significantly associated with infants with RSV lower respiratory tract infections (p < 0.05).

Conclusion During the pandemic period, RSV affected the prognosis in intensive care unit admissions due to lower respiratory tract infection in newborns.
Splenic Trauma: Technical Considerations and Management of Complications
Authors: Lim Marc Michael Del Rosario , Farsad Khashayar
Published: September 2022

Splenic artery embolization has become an important tool in the management of splenic trauma. This review discusses the indications, anatomy, devices, techniques, and complications associated with splenic artery embolization.
Frequentist and Bayesian Hypothesis Testing: An Intuitive Guide for Urologists and Clinicians
Authors: Gaona José , Sánchez Daniel , González Cesar , González Fabio , Rueda Angélica , Ortiz Sebastián
Published: September 2022

Given the limitations of frequentist method for null hypothesis significance testing, different authors recommend alternatives such as Bayesian inference. A poor understanding of both statistical frameworks is common among clinicians. The present is a gentle narrative review of the frequentist and Bayesian methods intended for physicians not familiar with mathematics. The frequentist p-value is the probability of finding a value equal to or higher than that observed in a study, assuming that the null hypothesis (H0) is true. The H0 is rejected or not based on a p threshold of 0.05, and this dichotomous approach does not express the probability that the alternative hypothesis (H1) is true. The Bayesian method calculates the probability of H1 and H0 considering prior odds and the Bayes factor (Bf). Prior odds are the researcher's belief about the probability of H1, and the Bf quantifies how consistent the data is concerning H1 and H0. The Bayesian prediction is not dichotomous but is expressed in continuous scales of the Bf and of the posterior odds. The JASP software enables the performance of both frequentist and Bayesian analyses in a friendly and intuitive way, and its application is displayed at the end of the paper. In conclusion, the frequentist method expresses how consistent the data is with H0 in terms of p-values, with no consideration of the probability of H1. The Bayesian model is a more comprehensive prediction because it quantifies in continuous scales the evidence for H1 versus H0 in terms of the Bf and the posterior odds.
Magneto-optical property and magnetic anisotropy of (100) oriented R0.5Bi2.5Fe5O12 (R = Eu, Sm, and Pr) thin films prepared by metal–organic decomposition
Authors: Urakawa R. , Asano W. , Nishikawa M. , Kawahara M. , Nishi T. , Oshima D. , Kato T. , Ishibashi T.
Published: September 2022

Bi-substituted rare-earth iron garnets, R3−xBixFe5O12 (Bi:RIG), where R represents one of the rare-earth elements, exhibit the excellent magneto-optical (MO) properties that increase with Bi content x. In addition, magnetic properties of Bi:RIGs, such as the magnetization, the magnetic anisotropy, and the magnetostriction, could be controlled by choosing rare-earth elements. In this paper, we report on R0.5Bi2.5Fe5O12 (Bi2.5:RIG, R = Pr, Sm, and Eu) thin films on Gd3Ga5O12 (GGG) (100) single crystal substrates prepared by the metal–organic decomposition method. XRD analysis reveals that Bi2.5:RIG thin films are grown along the same orientation with GGG substrates, and their lattice constants are dependent on the ionic radii of the rare-earth ions. MO measurements show that Faraday spectra of the Bi2.5:RIG thin films have a typical spectral structure observed for Bi:RIGs. The magnetic anisotropy constants, the uniaxial magnetic anisotropy energy Ku, and the magnetocrystalline anisotropy energy K1 of Bi2.5:RIG (R = Y, Pr, Nd, Sm, and Eu) thin films are investigated by using the ferromagnetic resonance measurement.
Investigation on the photocurrent tailof vanadium-compensated 4H–SiC for microwave application
Authors: Fu Wentao , Wang Langning , Wang Bin , Chu Xu , Xun Tao , Yang Hanwu
Published: September 2022

Vanadium-compensated semi-insulating 4H–SiC photoconductive semiconductor switch (PCSS) has been a promising candidate for frequency-agile microwave generation. This application usually requires the PCSS to operate in linear mode so that a short carrier lifetime is required. However, in our experiment, some samples showed a long tail of photocurrent when illuminated with 532 nm light. To investigate the cause of the tail, we performed photocurrent tests at 532 and 1064 nm for two 4H–SiC samples with different doping. From the experimental results, we deduce that the cause is a hole trap that was not investigated previously. To verify it, we constructed a versatile transient simulation model of 4H–SiC triggered at sub-bandgap light. The model can deal with amphoteric V in steady state, the extrinsic light absorption and recombination process with more than one trap level. The simulation results agree well with the experiments. By characterizing the properties of the trap, we deduce that the unintentional doping of aluminum’s shallow acceptor level functions as the hole trap.