bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of a Novel Macro-Micro Integrated Brain Surgery Robot Based on Modular Parallel Mechanisms
Authors: Zheng Hao , Liang Chenbo , Gao Feng , Qi Chenkun , He Bingze , Liu Renqiang , Chen Longhai
Published: November 2024

The advancement and development of medical surgical robots have provided new technological support for brain surgery and neurosurgical procedures, improving the reliability of highly complex and precise surgeries. In turn, this urges the design and development of novel surgical robots to possess higher precision, stability, and enhanced motion capabilities. In response to this practical demand, this paper introduces a macro-micro integrated medical brain surgery robot system based on the concept of modular PMs (parallel mechanisms), which have a total of 13 active DOFs (degrees of freedom). This system divides the motion process of brain surgery into a large-scale macro-motion space and a small-scale high-precision motion space for design and planning control. The introduction of the design concept that combines multiple modular parallel sub-mechanisms has brought a significant level of decoupling characteristics to the mechanism itself. A comprehensive introduction and analysis of the surgical robot are provided, covering aspects such as design, kinematics, motion planning, and performance indicators. To address the pose allocation and coordination of motion between the macro platform and the micro platform, a pose allocation algorithm based on the decoupling and non-decoupling characteristics in various dimensions of the macro-micro platform is proposed. The designed measurement experiments have demonstrated that the repeatability in positioning accuracy of the macro and micro platform reaches the level of micron and submicron respectively. Practical experiments of motion control and simulated brain electrode implantation validate the excellent performance and stability of the entire surgical robot system. This research contributes innovative insights to the development of medical surgical robot systems, particularly in the domain of mechanism design.
Physics-Informed Neural Networks-Based Online Excavation Trajectory Planning for Unmanned Excavator
Authors: Fu Tao , Hu Zhengguo , Zhang Tianci , Bi Qiushi , Song Xueguan
Published: November 2024

As a large-scale mining excavator, the electric shovel (ES) has been extensively employed in open-pit mines for overburden removal and mineral loading. In the development of unmanned operations for ES, dynamic excavation trajectory planning is essential, as it directly influences operational efficiency and energy consumption by guiding the dipper during excavation. However, conventional optimization-based methods for excavation trajectory planning typically start from scratch, resulting in a time-consuming process that fails to meet real-time requirements. To address this challenge, we propose an innovative online trajectory planning framework based on physics-informed neural networks (PINNOTP) that utilizes advanced data-driven techniques. The input to PINNOTP consists of on-site working conditions, including the initial state of the ES and the material surface being excavated. The output is a smooth, polynomial-based curve that serves as the reference trajectory for the dipper. To ensure smooth execution of the generated trajectory, prior domain knowledge—such as physics-based target-oriented constraints, essential system dynamics, and mechanical constraints—is explicitly incorporated into the loss function during training. A case study is presented to validate the proposed method, demonstrating that PINNOTP effectively addresses the challenges of online excavation trajectory planning.
Influence of gradient moisture content on hot pressing heat transfer of bamboo scrimber and it’s mathematical model
Authors: Tian Xinchi , Yang Chunmei , Wang Tingting , Lin Qiuqin , Xue Bo , Yu Wenji
Published: November 2024

Hot pressing process is an important process in the preparation of bamboo scrimber. However, due to the low thermal conductivity of fiberized bamboo veneer and the low heat transfer efficiency in the preparation of bamboo scrimber, the processing time is prolonged. At the same time, due to the influence of moisture content in the hot pressing process, the “boiler effect” of the core layer with a sharp increase in temperature and excessive steam pressure will appear, resulting in the risk of board explosion. In this study, a pavement method with gradient moisture content is explored, which can make the surface water vaporize and produce steam impact on the core layer, thus improving the heat transfer efficiency of the core layer and reducing the hot pressing period. The results show that when paving with gradient moisture content, the heating rate of the core layer is increased to a certain extent due to the promotion of steam impact on the core layer temperature. At the same time, due to the low moisture content of the core layer, the saturated steam cannot be formed from the moisture to the core layer, so the obvious “boiler effect” will not appear in the core layer, which can improve the hot pressing efficiency and reduce the risk of board explosion. In addition, this method does not reduce the mechanical properties of the panel. Meanwhile, this study introduces a straightforward gradient moisture content paving method and has made structural enhancements to the hot press machine, enabling the practical implementation of gradient moisture content paving.
Making it on the breadline – improving food security on the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Lands, Central Australia
Authors: Lee Amanda J. , Rainow Stephan , Balmer Liza , Hutchinson Rhiannon , Bryce Suzanne , Lewis Meron , Herron Lisa-Maree , Torzillo Paul , Stevens Robert , Kavanagh Margaret , Wells Lisa , Kenny Ingrid ,   Nganampa Health Council, Nyaningu Jamie , Singer John , Haines Sue ,   Ngaanyatjarra Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Women’s Council, Smith Kunmanara , Yangi Yangi Fox Yangi Yangi , Baker Maureen , Bandicha Yanyi , Forbes Janet , Kulitja Rene , Lewis Wanatjura , Naylon Peggy , Roberts Tjawina Nellie , Tjiweri Lily , Ward Martha , Windy Carmen , Ross Lynette
Published: November 2024

Background

This longitudinal case study describes the efforts and impacts of community-controlled service organisations on the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands in Central Australia to tackle food security since the 1980s, with a focus on the last decade, particularly during a year of concerted action from mid-2018.

Methods

The co-designed study comprised an interrupted time series with controls. Availability, affordability, accessibility and sales of foods in the community retail stores on the APY Lands were monitored regularly from 2014 to mid-2022, including by local research teams. Store nutrition policy was updated early 2018. For a year from mid-2018, of the eight communities with stores: (i) two were the focus for concerted intervention, including support from a locally based project officer to help implement the policy and action 105 community requests for nutrition activities (ii) three received usual support to implement the policy; and (iii) three were subject to ‘business as usual’. From mid-2019, all communities/stores received usual service, from 2020 with some restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Results were compared over time, across different community/store groups and with controls.

Results

In the 12 months from mid-2018, all food security metrics improved most in the two focus communities. Impacts were less marked in the communities without additional support to implement the revised nutrition policy, and even less apparent, although more varied, in the other three communities/stores. Dietary intake improved only in the two focus communities.

In all communities from early 2020 most gains eroded due to impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and other external stressors. Food security metrics, including price of healthy food, appeared more resilient in the focus communities, although diet quality worsened. At all times assessed, healthy diets were unaffordable for welfare-dependant households.

Conclusions

This co-designed study demonstrates the effectiveness of community-led approaches, confirming that it is possible to improve food security and diet in remote Aboriginal communities. However, sustained action and monitoring, dedicated resources and employment of local people are critical for success. Results also highlight that low incomes are a major barrier to food security.
The doctor’s presence created a safe space - a mixed methods study of students’ learning outcomes from an elective course in palliative medicine
Authors: Schaufel Margrethe Aase , Rosland Jan Henrik , Haugen Dagny Faksvåg
Published: November 2024

Background

Competence in palliative medicine is required in clinical practice. Based on a literature review, we developed a two-week elective course in palliative medicine for 5th and 6th year medical students. We wanted to study learning outcomes from the course, especially related to knowledge, confidence, and reflections on the doctor’s role in palliative care.

Methods

A multiple-choice questionnaire (MCQ) assessed knowledge in palliative care pre and post course. The Thanatophobia Scale (TS) and the Self-efficacy in Palliative Care Scale (SEPC) measured confidence in communication with patients close to death and in providing palliative care, respectively. Reflection notes were analysed using Systematic Text Condensation, a cross-case thematic analysis. Lave & Wenger’s theory about situated learning was used to support interpretations.

Results

From 2018 to 2022 we ran four courses for a total of 48 students. Test results improved over the course in all four groups. On average, MCQ scores increased by 22% (range 13–33), TS scores were reduced by 28% (24–32), and SEPC scores increased by 50% (42–64), reflecting increased confidence in dealing with seriously ill and dying patients and their relatives. The participants prepared reflection notes describing their main impressions and take-home messages from the course, focusing specifically on the role of the doctor. They described the doctor’s role linked to an overarching task of creating a sense of security for patients and relatives. Through the course, and especially through talking to patients and relatives and being part of the interprofessional team, the participants learned how this sense of security was built by gaining competence in the following domains: 1) Patient-centred communication about the disease, expected trajectory, and needs, establishing common ground and support; 2) Being the medical expert in symptom relief and decision-making, providing guidance and reassurance in difficult situations; 3) Professionalism rooted in a holistic and relational approach; and 4) Being a good team player, aware of their function and limitations.

Conclusions

A two-week student-selected course in palliative medicine improved knowledge and skills and increased confidence in providing palliative care. The comprehensive understanding of the doctor’s role obtained in this course may also be relevant to other clinical specialties.

Trial registration

Not applicable (no clinical trial).
Clinical effects of anweiyang capsule and Pinellia decoction for eradication of Helicobacter pylori and healing of peptic ulcers
Authors: Feng Xiaoying , Zhao Xin , Cao Lanlan , Shang Ruixue , Feng Xinran
Published: November 2024

Peptic ulcers are a prevalent and often chronic condition within the digestive system, frequently prone to recurrence. This study aims to evaluate the clinical effects of Anweiyang capsule combined with Pinellia Heart-Draining Decoction on Helicobacter pylori eradication, ulcer healing rates, and improvement of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) syndromes in patients with peptic ulcers. A total of 100 patients were randomly assigned to an observation group (n = 50), receiving the herbal combination, and a control group (n = 50), receiving standard Western medical treatment. The total effective rate was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the observation group (96%) compared to the control group (80%). After 4 weeks of treatment, serum procalcitonin (PCT) and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels decreased, while prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) levels increased in both groups; however, the observation group exhibited better results (P < 0.05). The observation group achieved a H. pylori eradication rate of 94% and an ulcer healing rate of 82%, compared to 64% and 56% in the control group, respectively. Improvement in TCM syndrome scores was more significant in the observation group (P < 0.05). Moreover, the incidence of adverse reactions was significantly (P < 0.05) lower in the observation group (4%) compared to the control group (18%). In conclusion, Anweiyang capsule combined with Pinellia Heart-Draining Decoction significantly enhances the eradication rate of H. pylori and the ulcer healing rate without substantially increasing the risk of adverse reactions, demonstrating its safety and reliability for patients.
Associations of schizophrenia with arrhythmic disorders and electrocardiogram traits: genetic exploration of population samples
Authors: Treur Jorien L. , Thijssen Anaïs B. , Smit Dirk J. A. , Tadros Rafik , Veeneman Rada R. , Denys Damiaan , Vermeulen Jentien M. , Barc Julien , Bergstedt Jacob , Pasman Joëlle A. , Bezzina Connie R. , Verweij Karin J. H.
Published: November 2024

Background

An important contributor to the decreased life expectancy of individuals with schizophrenia is sudden cardiac death. Arrhythmic disorders may play an important role herein, but the nature of the relationship between schizophrenia and arrhythmia is unclear.

Aims

To assess shared genetic liability and potential causal effects between schizophrenia and arrhythmic disorders and electrocardiogram (ECG) traits.

Method

We leveraged summary-level data of large-scale genome-wide association studies of schizophrenia (53 386 cases, 77 258 controls), arrhythmic disorders (atrial fibrillation, 55 114 cases, 482 295 controls; Brugada syndrome, 2820 cases, 10 001 controls) and ECG traits (heart rate (variability), PR interval, QT interval, JT interval and QRS duration, n = 46 952–293 051). We examined shared genetic liability by assessing global and local genetic correlations and conducting functional annotation. Bidirectional causal relations between schizophrenia and arrhythmic disorders and ECG traits were explored using Mendelian randomisation.

Results

There was no evidence for global genetic correlation, except between schizophrenia and Brugada syndrome (rg = 0.14, 95% CIs = 0.06–0.22, P = 4.0E−04). In contrast, strong positive and negative local correlations between schizophrenia and all cardiac traits were found across the genome. In the most strongly associated regions, genes related to immune and viral response mechanisms were overrepresented. Mendelian randomisation indicated that liability to schizophrenia causally increases Brugada syndrome risk (beta = 0.14, CIs = 0.03–0.25, P = 0.009) and heart rate during activity (beta = 0.25, CIs = 0.05–0.45, P = 0.015).

Conclusions

Despite little evidence for global genetic correlation, specific genomic regions and biological pathways emerged that are important for both schizophrenia and arrhythmia. The putative causal effect of liability to schizophrenia on Brugada syndrome warrants increased cardiac monitoring and early medical intervention in people with schizophrenia.
Μελέτη έκφρασης της ριβονουκλεοτιδικής αναγωγάσης σε ασθενείς με χρόνια λεμφοκυτταρική λευχαιμία
Authors: Χατζηδαυίδ Σεβαστιανός
Published: November 2024

Εισαγωγή: Η ριβονουκλεοτιδική αναγωγάση (RNR) μετατρέπει τα ριβονουκλεοτίδια σε δεοξυριβονουκλεοτίδια (dNTPs) που απαιτούνται για την αντιγραφή και την επιδιόρθωση του DNA. Η RNR αποτελείται από τις υπομονάδες RRM1 και RRM2. Η ανισορροπία της δραστηριότητας RNR και της δεξαμενής dNTPs οδηγεί σε γονιδιωματική αστάθεια. Η έκφραση του RNR μελετάται ως προγνωστικός παράγοντας σε αρκετές συμπαγείς και αιματολογικές νεοπλασίες. Η έκφραση της RNR και ο πιθανός προγνωστικός της ρόλος στη χρόνια λεμφοκυτταρική λευχαιμία (ΧΛΛ) δεν έχουν διερευνηθεί ακόμη. Μέθοδοι: Συλλέχθηκαν δείγματα ολικού περιφερικού αίματος από ασθενείς με ΧΛΛ. Η εκχύλιση RNA και η αντίστροφη μεταγραφή πραγματοποιήθηκαν χρησιμοποιώντας τυπικά πρωτόκολλα. Τα επίπεδα mRNA των γονιδίων RRM1 και RRM2 εκφράστηκαν ως αναλογίες RRM1/GAPDH και RRM2/GAPDH. Η μεθυλίωση του υποκινητή του γονιδίου RRM1 μελετήθηκε σε μια υποομάδα ασθενών. Αποτελέσματα: Η μελέτη περιελάμβανε 135 ασθενείς με ΧΛΛ. Η έκφραση του mRNA του RRM1 ήταν σημαντικά υψηλότερη σε ασθενείς χωρίς αναιμία (p=,026) και χωρίς λεμφαδενοπάθεια (p=,005). Ταχύτητα καθίζησης ερυθρών πάνω από 30 mm/h (p=,018), μη φυσιολογικά επίπεδα LDH (p=,022) και υψηλότερο στάδιο Rai (p=,019) σχετίστηκαν με χαμηλότερα επίπεδα RRM1 mRNA. Η έλλειψη 17p συσχετίστηκε με υψηλότερα επίπεδα mRNA RRM1 (p=,031). Υψηλότερη έκφραση mRNA RRM2 βρέθηκε σε ασθενείς χωρίς λεμφαδενοπάθεια (p=,048) και Rai στάδιο 0 (p=,025). Η έκφραση του mRNA RRM2 αυξήθηκε σε περιπτώσεις με Τρισωμία 12 (p=0,025). Η μεθυλιωμένη κατάσταση του υποκινητή του γονιδίου RRM1 συσχετίστηκε με την παρουσία λεμφαδενοπάθειας (p=,016). Ως συνεχής μεταβλητή, τα επίπεδα μεθυλίωσης συσχετίστηκαν με την παρουσία λεμφαδενοπάθειας (p=,039) και το στάδιο Rai (p=,031). Η μεθυλιωμένη κατάσταση συσχετίστηκε με περίπου 4 φορές χαμηλότερα επίπεδα RRM1 mRNA σε σύγκριση με τη μη μεθυλιωμένη κατάσταση (0,0123 έναντι 0,0465, p=,014) και με περίπου 10 φορές χαμηλότερα επίπεδα RRM2 mRNA (0,0038 έναντι 0,0397 για μη μεθυλιωμένη κατάσταση, p=,027). Συμπέρασμα: Για πρώτη φορά, τα επίπεδα mRNA των γονιδίων RRM1 και RRM2 μελετώνται σε ασθενείς με ΧΛΛ. Τα υψηλότερα επίπεδα mRNA των γονιδίων RRM1 και RRM2 που βρέθηκαν σε περιπτώσεις έλλειψης 17p και τρισωμίας 12 υποδεικνύουν πιθανό μηχανισμό που εξαρτάται από τη μεθυλίωση, όπως φαίνεται σε προηγούμενες μελέτες. Συμπεριλαμβανομένης της συσχέτισης με το στάδιο Rai, αυτά τα αποτελέσματα καταδεικνύουν τον πιθανό ρόλο της RNR ως προγνωστικού παράγοντα και την καθιστούν πιθανό θεραπευτικό στόχο.
Neck pain and distance learning: A pain in the neck for university students during COVID-19
Authors: Musaad Mohamed Awab , Abdulkafi Abbara Mohamad , Alaaeldin Bashier Sara , Aasim Elkhidir Danya , Hussein Amal , Ranade Anu Vinod
Published: November 2024

Objective The shift to online learning during COVID-19 led to increased musculoskeletal discomforts and impacted students’ quality of life. Neck pain (NP), once a minor issue, has become more prevalent due to prolonged electronic device use in new learning methods. This study aims to measure the prevalence of NP among University of Sharjah (UOS) students during the COVID-19 online learning period and to investigate the factors that provoked it. Methods This study focused on young adult students aged 17-26 and did not consider gender or athletic status due to the university’s demographics and pandemic restrictions. Demographic data, Neck Disability Index (NDI) assessments, and pain management information were gathered and analyzed using SPSS 24 through univariate and bivariate methods. Results The prevalence of NP during COVID-19, among 325 UOS students was found to be 62.7%, 64.41% of which had NP at the time of doing the survey. NDI scores were found to be skewed. The median was 16% which indicates mild NP while the interquartile range was 19.11. Most participants reported experiencing posterior neck pain (38.77%), primarily attributed to prolonged sitting (81.23%). Factors such as lifting, personal care, and emotional well-being were found to have a significant impact on NDI. Participants who did not seek medical attention exhibited significantly higher levels of neck pain disability, as measured by the NDI. The median NDI score for this group was 20, with an interquartile range of 16.89 while, those who sought medical attention had a higher median NDI score of 34 with interquartile range of 22. Conclusion This study highlights the prevalence of neck pain among UOS students, emphasizing the need for postural improvements and further research on prevention strategies in the UAE.
Psychological well-being of travellers on long-distance shipping voyages: A systematic review protocol
Authors: Kpeno Audifax , Rout Twinkle , Sahu Pratap Kumar , Sharma Nachieketa Khamari , Sahoo Surjeet , Pattanaik Deepak Kumar
Published: November 2024

The psychosocial well-being of every individual is as important as the well-being of long-distance voyages, especially that they have to spend longer hours and days travelling to their destinations with all the experiences of adventure and adversities characterizing the journey. The aim of this systematic review is to explore the psychosocial well-being of long-distance seafarers on board shipping vessels to gain an understanding of their psychological and social well-being with the objective of ameliorating the adversities associated with these travels. A systematic review will be conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (2020) statement. The databases to be searched for the data will be limited to Scopus, Web of Science, and Advanced Google Scholar using keywords selected by the reviewers. Meta-analysis, narrative synthesis, or both will be used depending on the extent of heterogeneity across eligible observational studies included in the review. Some specific countries will be selected for data extraction, and only data published in English will be included. It is expected that the findings from this review will bring to bear if these categories of seafarers are prone to risks that affect their psychosocial wellbeing and if so discovered. This protocol was registered with the PROSPERO. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42024517277(08/03/2024)
Does Brand Attitude Complement Influencer Credibility in Shaping Purchase Intention of Indian GenZ Consumers?
Authors: Vilas Chavare Pranav , Nayak Smitha , Birau Ramona , Alapati Varalakshmi
Published: November 2024

Introduction The social media landscape has undergone radical changes and has revolutionized consumer perspectives, purchasing habits, and behaviors. Amidst this emerging trend is the rise of influencer marketing and its impact on the purchase intentions of followers. The objective is to explore the characteristics of influencers that contribute to their credibility. This research aims to explore the role of consumers’ attitude toward brands on their intention to adopt brands endorsed by influencers. Methods This cross-sectional research was undertaken among GenZ in the urban landscape of India. Data collected was analyzed using SmartPLS4 software. Findings Trust, expertise, and similarity were the significant antecedents of the formation of influencer credibility. Attractiveness did not have a significant influence on influencer credibility. A complementary partial mediation of Attitude towards a brand is observed in the association between influencer credibility and the purchase intention of followers. Attitude towards the video also had a significant positive influence on purchase intention. Conclusion The study found that Gen Z places little importance on an influencer’s attractiveness, as it has no significant impact on credibility. However, attitude toward the brand strongly influenced purchase intention and partially mediated the relationship between influencer credibility and purchase intention.
Możliwość makrohistorii. Braudel, Wallerstein, Deleuze
Authors: Swianiewicz Jan
Published: November 2024

Czy można wciąż myśleć i pisać o historii w wielkiej skali? Formułować tezy o długofalowych procesach historycznych i rządzących nimi regularnościach? W sposób totalny opisywać dzieje cywilizacji? Czy i w jakich kategoriach daje się ująć historia naszego globu? Czy wolno pytać o to, jak wydarzyła się nasza współczesność rozumiana jako całość tego, co uważamy za aktualne? Jesteśmy skłonni odpowiadać na te pytania negatywnie lub odrzucać je jako jałowe. Ostrożność tę dyktuje pamięć o porażkach filozofów dziejów oraz lęk przed starymi błędami determinizmu, teleologii, naiwnej linearności i nieuleczalnego europocentryzmu, które skutecznie odstraszają dziś od wczorajszej historiozofii. Ogarnięci wątpliwościami – każącymi deprecjonować wszelki szeroko zakrojony namysł nad historią – przeoczamy wszakże fakt, iż dzieła makrohistoryczne wciąż powstają. Pośród potocznej dyskusji o kresie „wielkich narracji” piszą je historycy, socjologowie i filozofowie. Jak to możliwe? Co znaczy oddawać się dociekaniom makrohistorycznym współcześnie? Poszukując odpowiedzi na to pytanie, autor poddaje analizie trzy dzieła stanowiące syntetyczne ujęcia dziejów kapitalizmu. Są nimi: „Kultura materialna, gospodarka i kapitalizm, XV-XVIII wiek” Fernanda Braudela, „The Modern World-System” Immanuela Wallersteina oraz „Capitalisme et schizophrénie” Gilles’a Deleuze’a i Félixa Guattariego. Nie będąc monograficznym ujęciem koncepcji wymienionych autorów ani porównawczą analizą merytorycznej zawartości ich dzieł, książka traktuje o problemie formy tego typu poznania, którego są owocem i wyrazem. Pytanie o warunki możliwości makrohistorii autor rozważa w świetle minionych, a następnie współczesnych relacji między historiografią, dziejami a filozofią, koncentrując stopniowo spojrzenie na trzech wybranych historiach kapitalizmu.
Naturalising Appreciation and Inquiry in the British National Health Service: A Story
Authors: Tee Anna
Published: November 2024

This article discusses the author’s introduction to Appreciative Inquiry (AI) and the results from a MSc qualitative study that introduced AI into the British National Health Service (NHS). Three themes are shared, together with a short illustration of what this means to start a broader conversation: 1. It gave people permission to think differently. 2. It gave a new frame of reference. 3. It changed how we felt. The writer reflects on the value of AI within the NHS, with a couple of stories thrown in for good measure.
The Art of Doing
Authors: Okma Akkie
Published: November 2024

In this article, an Appreciative Inquiry practitioner who has relocated many times and found her way in a variety of cultures shares her thoughts on how Appreciative Inquiry has helped her feel at home in her new hometown.
Harnessing Strengths Naturally: Unintentional Appreciative Inquiry in Action
Authors: Colbourne Dâna
Published: November 2024

This article explores how an unintentional use of Appreciative Inquiry helped a midwifery student overcome imposter syndrome. By reflecting on her journey and strengths, such as communication and empathy, we reframed her self-doubt into self-assurance. The approach highlights the power of focusing on individual strengths to build confidence and foster growth in healthcare education.
Robotic Process Automation Technology applied to the Management of SMEs in the Manufacturing and Service Sector: A Systematic Review
Authors: Montoya Peláez Mauricio , Aguirre-Alvarez Yenny Alejandra
Published: November 2024

Objective: To carry out a systematic review of the literature in relation to robotic process automation technology (RPA), applied to the organizational management of Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) in the manufacturing and services sector, to analyze the integration of complementary technologies aligned with administrative and operational processes. Methodology: The research uses mixed qualitative and quantitative approaches that support exploratory and documentary methodologies. It starts from the research questions, to then define search strategies, list the selected publications and generate systematic data extraction, to finally analyze and conclude based on the findings. Key findings: From a review of 484 articles, 233 in Web of Science (WoS) and 251 in Scopus, it was found that India, China, and Finland are the countries that contribute the most to the use of technology in the sectors investigated. Cyber-physical systems and robotics, big data, IoT and simulation are the pillars of Industry 4.0, with greater application of RPA-associated technologies. Finally, logistic models turn out to have a greater scope for using technologies for the development of activities and tasks in the manufacturing sector. Conclusions: The result and contribution of this exercise shows parameters for the implementation of RPA in the organizational management of SMES in the manufacturing and service sector.
Configuraciones del racismo en el movimiento eugenésico
Authors: Palma Héctor A.
Published: November 2024

En este capítulo se analizará la relación entre el movimiento eugenésico (en adelante me) 1 y el discurso racista de los siglos xix y xx. Antes de avanzar es necesario hacer dos aclaraciones. La primera sobre el alcance de este capítulo. El ME es uno de esos procesos que, sobre un conjunto más o menos básico y homogéneo de ideas, transcurren de manera compleja y polifacética, incluso adquiriendo matices diferenciales más o menos marcados. No es raro que así sea si se tienen en cuenta factores como la profunda penetración en la cultura, la amplia expansión a casi todo el mundo y su presencia durante décadas. De modo que cualquier afirmación demasiado genérica chocará indudablemente con algún contraejemplo histórico; al mismo tiempo, las exégesis minuciosas y finas o los análisis muy circunscriptos podrán conducir a resaltar matices muy exclusivos y perder de vista algunas consideraciones troncales. Como se comprenderá, es un asunto que no admite una solución óptima y obliga a transitar equilibradamente entre los detalles y las cuestiones fundamentales. Teniendo esto en cuenta, trataremos de brindar aquí un panorama general y ampliamente suficiente para comprender la mentalidad eugenésica en su vinculación específica con el racismo, aceptando que en la vasta producción bibliográfica sobre el tema puedan encontrarse matices más o menos marcados. La segunda aclaración es más conceptual y da sentido a este texto. Resulta erróneo reducir la eugenesia a la mera puesta en práctica de un racismo elemental y burdo que, por otra parte, no resulta ser más que un hombre de paja. Más bien, se trata de analizar el modo en que el me recibió, articuló, modificó y se fundamentó en ese racismo imperante. En ese sentido, puede decirse que se tratará de responder a la pregunta ¿qué características alcanzó el racismo para transformarse no solo en un insumo teórico del me sino en una condición de posibilidad de este? Para responderla, comenzaremos por una breve caracterización del ME y luego se avanzará sobre las características del racismo.
Case Article—Humanitarian Supply Chains and Inventory Management: Planning Medical Supply at the International Committee of the Red Cross
Authors: Thakur-Weigold Bublu , Tilson Vera , Pachamanova Dessislava A. , Mohamad Samah El Sayed
Published: November 2024

This case is based on an actual project with the International Committee of the Red Cross. The rich context allows instructors to cover important topics in inventory management, supply chain management, and humanitarian logistics at a level appropriate for different student backgrounds. At a foundational level, the case presents opportunities to practice concepts like cycle stock, safety stock, and service level. Technical audiences can appreciate applications of machine learning and optimization for inventory management. Practice-oriented audiences learn about the challenges of applying commercial operations metrics and heuristics like ABC analysis to humanitarian logistics. Realistic data and models are provided.

Funding: B. Thakur-Weigold acknowledges funding from the Engineering for Humanitarian Action initiative launched by the ICRC, ETH Zurich, and EPFL. International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule (ETH) Zürich, and École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL).

Supplemental Material: Supplemental materials are available at https://www.informs.org/Publications/Subcribe/Access-Restricted-Materials .
A proof of conditional distribution of multivariate t distributions based on linear transformation
Authors: Xu Xiang , Yuan Mengfan , Su Zhengya , Liu Junzhe
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we study the representation of the multivariate t distribution. Using the distribution linear transformation, we derive the proof of conditional distribution of multivariate t distributions.
An Exquisite Design Process and Impacting Synthesis of 2-methyl Nicotinamide Derivatives and their Anti-bacterial Activity Closet to Fab I Inhibitors
Authors: Acharyulu S. Raghunadh , Srinivasu N. , Jampala Sivaranjani , M Arundhuthi
Published: November 2024

Synthesis of “5-(2,5-difluoro-4-((4-methylpiperazin-1-yl) methyl) phenyl)-N-(2-methoxybenzyl)-2-ethyl nicotinamide and 2-fluoro-4-(6-fluoro pyridine-2-yl)-6-(4-methyl piperazine-1-yl)” benzaldehyde derivatives has been developed using the 4−bromo−2,5 –difluoro benzaldehyde and 4−bromo−2,6−diflouro benzaldehyde and further this chemical to prepare the various novel derivatives. Synthesized compounds have been characterized using FTIR, 1H-NMR, 13CNMR etc. Such developed molecules are novel, cost-effective, and can be prepared by industrially viable methods. As a result of the fewer reaction steps, the high yield, and the purity of the organic chemical generated, the procedure described is less strenuous. Compared to earlier synthetic approaches, the newly discovered route is thought to be the most efficient and shortest. The established method may make it easier to prepare a variety of important intermediates and active medicinal compounds. The versatility of this work is the same reagent Titanium isopropoxide was used for both reductive aminations and SNAr couplings.The primary goal of this endeavor is to create novel compounds based on Fab I inhibitor analogs and assess their antibacterial efficacy.The produced substances were examined on “gram-positive bacteria (S.aureus, B.subtilis)and also on gram-negative bacteria (E. coli, P.aeruginosa).” Among all the compounds examined, the nicotinamide derivative 9B showed the MIC 32 (g/ml) against staphylococcus aureus and also on B.subtilis. The derivatives 9C and 9D also haveanti-bacterial resistance at 64 (g/ml) on gram-positive bacteria. The aldehyde derivatives 13C and 13D had bacterial resistance at MIC 32 (g/ml) against staphylococcus aureus and also on B.subtilis. The docking studies of the synthesized molecules were also examined on the 7ap6 enzyme. The synthesized molecules are very well fit into the enzyme and they have better binding energy than the standard molecules triclosan and MUTO56399.
Sensitivity Analysis for Deep Learning Data Sets Considering the Human Immune System
Authors: Takeda Haruki , Miyamoto Shoichiro , Zhou Lei , Tamura Yoshinobu , Yamada Shigeru
Published: November 2024

Recently, open source software (OSS) has been widely used in many fields due to the spread and development facilitated by networks. The characteristics of OSS include no cost and high performance, which make it a significant component of modern society. However, the number of reported faults is increasing due to its vulnerabilities. Detecting these faults requires substantial costs, and correcting the growing number of faults necessitates a large workforce. In this paper, we propose a method for Reliability Assessment of OSS using deep learning based on the human immune system. Additionally, we present several numerical examples based on the proposed method.
A IMPORTÂNCIA RELATIVA DOS FATORES DE RISCO DE GERENCIAMENTO DE PROJETO NO DESENVOLVIMENTO DE NOVOS PRODUTOS EM BANCOS DIGITAIS
Authors: Ronco David , Pinheiro Gondim de Vasconcellos Eduardo , Bastos dos Reis Felipe
Published: November 2024

O gerenciamento de riscos em projetos de desenvolvimento de novos produtos (DNP) é fundamental para as organizações, especialmente em mercados inovadores como o das fintechs. Este trabalho objetivou identificar os principais fatores de risco no gerenciamento de projetos de DNP em bancos digitais, entendendo como a importância relativa desses fatores muda quando analisada por profissionais diferentes áreas. Realizou-se uma pesquisa na literatura, seguida do uso da técnica Delphi e do cálculo do Índice de Importância Relativa (IIR) de 20 fatores de risco em projetos de DNP. Esses fatores foram a base para o questionário aplicado. A análise dos dados mostrou diferenças estatisticamente significativas em seis fatores de risco. A principal contribuição do artigo é apresentar um modelo com os mais importantes fatores de risco relacionados ao gerenciamento do projeto, em projetos de DNP e análises sobre a variação dessa importância. Como contribuição prática, a criação do modelo auxilia os profissionais a compreenderem melhor os principais fatores de risco relacionados a projetos de DNP, possibilitando um planejamento mais eficaz e detalhado dos riscos associados a esses projetos.
A gestalt shift? Reflections from researchers turned elected representatives on the real-world use of evidence in policy making
Authors: Synhaeve Marijke , Heap Dan , McMahon Naoimh
Published: November 2024

This practice piece will present a comparative reflection of how the use of evidence in policy looks when viewed from the outside, as a researcher, with how evidence use is experienced when working as a policy maker. The three authors are unusual in sharing an experience of studying evidence use in policy before becoming elected politicians who are involved in policy making and who have therefore gained a very different, more direct experience of how evidence is used in policy-making settings. Synhaeve has studied evidence use in secure youth care and is an elected councillor and was elected national member of parliament for the Democrats 66 Party in the Netherlands, McMahon has studied evidence use in public health and is an elected councillor for the Labour Party in England, while Heap has studied evidence use in social security policy and is an elected councillor for the Green Party in Scotland. The practice piece will consider to what extent their perspectives on evidence use in policy have shifted as they have moved from researcher to political representative and policy maker, and will consider to what extent these experiences have been shaped by their substantive policy interests and the political systems in which each is operating. It will conclude by summarising the collective insights that have emerged for the three authors as they have shifted to viewing evidence use from the perspective of an insider, who is using evidence in making policy, rather than an outsider, producing evidence with a view to influencing policy.
Saṃghabhadra on Perception of Non-existence
Authors: Zhang Shuqing , Li Jincheng
Published: November 2024

Can non-existence be perceived? While the answer may seem obviously negative, proving this is not straightforward. This article extracts several arguments for the claim that "non-existence cannot be an object of perception" from the reasoning provided by Saṃghabhadra regarding "non-existence cannot be an object of *buddhi. Two main arguments are reconstructed and both are reductio ad absurdum. The first suggests that if any non-existence could be perceived, all instances of non-existence would be perceived. Combined with Saṃghabhadra's causal theory of perception, this implies that one perception could perceive all instances of non-existence. The second posits that if non-existence were an object of perception, it would result in no perception occurring at all. As a problem-oriented study, this article reconstructs and evaluates Saṃghabhadra's arguments, demonstrating that "non-existence cannot be perceived" is not as easily proved as it appears, and Saṃghabhadra’s insightful arguments, though vulnerable to challenges, hold promise for further defense.
Rudyard Kipling's Kim : A Novel of Networks
Authors: Shah Seher
Published: November 2024

abstract: This analysis explores Rudyard Kipling's view of the limitations of Western universalist philosophy through three train scenes in Kim (1901). Each scene develops Kim's Bildung in relation to the culturally hybrid spaces of colonized India, and each contrasts the experience of hybridity against European Enlightenment concepts of the material world. There are two distinct types of enlightenment involved: Kim's western education is associated with scientific objectivity, instrumental rationality, and progressive conceptions of civilization; his eastern education involves spiritual clarity, the interdependence of all entities, and transcendence of materialism and its related suffering. Such concepts are challenged by the novel's modernization of Bildungsroman , which emphasizes networks of relations, rather than independence and autonomy. A comparative reading of two panoramic views—from the Grand Trunk Road and from the lama's enlightened perspective—illustrates Kipling's rejection of a unified theory of enlightenment, further complicating the implications of Western Enlightenment for unreconciled hybridity.
Panoptic Love: Foucault's Surveillance State in and around An Ideal Husband
Authors: Paquette Joseph
Published: November 2024

abstract: Oscar Wilde's society comedy An Ideal Husband (1895) depends on social reputation to regulate characters' actions. Applying the carceral (prison) model of the Panopticon to this play reveals the impact of Michel Foucault's surveillance state on the characters, demonstrating that intimate, heterosexual relationships are measured against an ideal, and disciplined and punished through the threat of social ostracism. Here, a successful marriage is based on good behavior, flawless reputation, and strong socioeconomic status, defining the institution as itself a Panopticon within the broader Panopticon of society. Played out on stage before an audience, the Panopticon of high society—within that of the theater—is further regulated and disciplined by the audience. The audience of An Ideal Husband thus experiences, and participates in, surveillance of and by heteronormative high society, just as Wilde experiences its regulation of homosexuality.
Topologically-protected four-wave mixing enhanced by tailoring topological edge states
Authors: Dong Jing-Kun , Dong Junhua , Li Huanan , Zou Bingsuo , Zhang Yongyou
Published: November 2024

Laser pulse compression serves as a pivotal technique in nonlinear optics and light-matter interactions. Traditional methods, including Q-switching, mode-locking techniques, and chirped pulse amplification, are employed to generate high-intensity fields. However, these methods pose challenges when applied to topological lasers. In this study, we explore the pulse compression technique for topological edge states (TESs). Our findings reveal a significant correlation between the pulse width of TESs and their group velocity. Though factors such as nonlinear TES dispersion, disorders, and edge bending also affect pulse width, their impacts are comparatively less pronounced compared to that of group velocity. Through the customization of TES’s group velocity, we demonstrate a remarkable enhancement of four-wave mixing, showcasing it as a prime example of a nonlinear processing technique. Importantly, our approach promises seamless integration into topological laser systems, ensuring optimal performance with zero energy transfer loss and introducing a flexible dimension and robustness to topological nonlinear optical devices.
Design of a low-loss non-volatile optical phase shifter based on the lossy phase change material Ge2Sb2Te5
Authors: Niu Lei , Zhang Jieying , Yu Run , Yang Lanzhao , Lu Yegang , Zhang Wei , Zheng Jiajiu , Gan Fuwan , Xu Peipeng
Published: November 2024

We present a low-loss, non-volatile optical phase shifter leveraging the phase change material (PCM) Ge2Sb2Te5 (GST) operating at a 1550 nm wavelength. The design is based on the coupling mechanism between a primary silicon strip waveguide and a GST-loaded hybrid waveguide, minimizing direct interaction between the waveguide mode and the PCM. In the amorphous, low-loss state of GST, phase matching between the waveguides enables efficient coupling, allowing light to re-couple into the primary waveguide after a certain length. Upon transitioning to the crystalline state, the GST induces phase mismatch, confining the light within the primary waveguide and circumventing the lossy crystalline GST, thereby preserving low-loss performance. At the central wavelength, the phase shifter exhibits a loss of ~1 dB in both states and achieves a phase shift of π upon phase change. A Mach-Zehnder interferometer incorporating this phase shifter demonstrates optical switching with a low insertion loss of ∼0.6 dB and minimal crosstalk below −20 dB over a 30 nm bandwidth, underscoring the potential of GST-based phase shifters for low-power, high-performance photonic circuits.
Mobile all-light communication network
Authors: Liu Pengzhan , Gou Jiahao , Wang Linning , Zhou Jiayao , Mo Xinijie , Liang Yingze , Qi Ziqian , Cao Ziping , Wang Yongjin
Published: November 2024

In reality, both mobile and fixed nodes are required in wireless light communication networks. Dynamic maintenance of light alignment plays a key role in mobile full-duplex light communication. Here, we merge an image identification module and a light communication system on a three-axis gimbal stabilizer. A real-time image of the other light communication system obtained by the image identification module is used as a feedback signal to control the three-axis gimbal stabilizer. Therefore, the other light communication system is automatically tracked, and the optical path between the two light communication ends is dynamically maintained, leading to mobile full-duplex light communication under the transmission control protocol/internet protocol (TCP/IP) scheme. Two green light communication apparatuses are separately deployed on two moving vehicles to establish bidirectional light transmission between moving network nodes with a maximum modulation bandwidth of 4 Mbps. Video communication across air and underwater environments is demonstrated, and internet access is illustrated via a Wi-Fi modem. To overcome environmental barriers, we combine mobile green light communication with blue laser communication, deep-ultraviolet light communication, and 850 nm laser diode communication to develop a mobile all-light communication network that enables seamless connectivity across air, land, and underwater environments. Since this network architecture is based on full-duplex communication, all communication nodes have equal and complete mapping characteristics and can facilitate bidirectional real-time data transmission between arbitrary nodes within the network, offering a promising route toward seamless mobile connectivity using light regardless of the environment.
Re-examination of the role of displacement and photon catalysis operation in continuous variable measurement device-independent quantum key distribution
Authors: Kumar Chandan , Arvind
Published: November 2024

We investigate the benefits of using m-photon catalyzed two-mode squeezed coherent (m-PCTMSC) state in continuous variable measurement device-independent quantum key distribution (CV-MDI-QKD). To that end, we derive the Wigner characteristic function of the m-PCTMSC state and show that the 0-PCTMSC state is a Gaussian state and is an inferior choice as compared to the zero photon catalyzed two-mode squeezed vacuum state for CV-MDI-QKD. We carry out the optimization of the secret key rate with respect to all state parameters, namely variance, transmissivity, and displacement. Contrary to many recent proposals, the results show that zero- and single-photon catalysis operation provides only a marginal benefit in improving the maximum transmission distance. Secondly, we find that displacement offers no benefit in improving CV-MDI-QKD.