bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Status of the Development of Wind Energy in Nigeria
Authors: Idris Wasiu Olalekan , Ibrahim Mohd Zamri , Albani Aliashim
Published: November 2020

The advancement of wind energy farms in the developed part of the world has dramatically reduced the cost of wind energy turbine systems down to a competitive price and has contributed to a reduction in global warming, which affects the worldwide population. The renewed interest in a sustainable, avoidable, and reliable energy system has contributed to the actions of the federal government of Nigeria regarding renewable energy systems. Many projects have been completed using solar energy in rural communities as well as with government higher institutions of learning, while little attention has been on wind energy, except for the 10 MW land base in a village in the Kastina State. In this study, the stages of development were itemized in regard to the assessment, economic analysis, and hybrid system of wind energy in Nigeria. The available reported wind speed were studied at 10, 20, 40, 60, 80, 100, and 120 m. Recommendations were highlighted to enhance wind energy research, development, and its application.
Citizen Science on Twitter: Using Data Analytics to Understand Conversations and Networks
Authors: Mazumdar Suvodeep , Thakker Dhavalkumar
Published: November 2020

This paper presents a long-term study on how the public engage with discussions around citizen science and crowdsourcing topics. With progress in sensor technologies and IoT, our cities and neighbourhoods are increasingly sensed, measured and observed. While such data are often used to inform citizen science projects, it is still difficult to understand how citizens and communities discuss citizen science activities and engage with citizen science projects. Understanding these engagements in greater depth will provide citizen scientists, project owners, practitioners and the generic public with insights around how social media can be used to share citizen science related topics, particularly to help increase visibility, influence change and in general and raise awareness on topics. To the knowledge of the authors, this is the first large-scale study on understanding how such information is discussed on Twitter, particularly outside the scope of individual projects. The paper reports on the wide variety of topics (e.g., politics, news, ecological observations) being discussed on social media and a wide variety of network types and the varied roles played by users in sharing information in Twitter. Based on these findings, the paper highlights recommendations for stakeholders for engaging with citizen science topics.
The Management of Hematologic Patients with Bloodstream Infections Due to Multi-Drug Resistant Bacteria: Where Do We Stand? From Antibacterial Prophylaxis to the Treatment of Septic Shock
Authors: Secreto Carolina , Busca Alessandro , Lupia Tommaso , Corcione Silvia , De Rosa Francesco Giuseppe
Published: November 2020

Bloodstream infection (BSI) and septic shock represent one of the major limiting factors for the successful treatment of patients affected by hematologic malignancies. During the most recent years we have documented a shift in the epidemiology of bacterial infections toward a consistent rise of Gram-negative rods. In addition, the emergence of multi-drug-resistant bacteria is considered a life-threatening condition requiring a multi-disciplinary approach. Aim of present review is to summarize the most recent approaches in terms of anti-microbial prophylaxis and treatment of BSI in hematologic patients with neutropenic fever.
A Potential Health Risk to Occupational User from Exposure to Biocidal Active Chemicals
Authors: Kim Joo-Hyon , Hwang Moon-Young , Kim Yoo-jin
Published: November 2020

Biocidal active chemicals have potential health risks associated with exposure to retail biocide products such as disinfectants for COVID-19. Reliable exposure assessment was investigated to understand the exposure pattern of biocidal products used by occupational workers in their place of occupation, multi-use facilities, and general facilities. The interview–survey approach was taken to obtain the database about several subcategories of twelve occupational groups, the use pattern, and the exposure information of non-human hygiene disinfectant and insecticide products in workplaces. Furthermore, we investigated valuable exposure factors, e.g., the patterns of use, exposure routes, and quantifying potential hazardous chemical intake, on biocidal active ingredients. We focused on biocidal active-ingredient exposure from products used by twelve occupational worker groups. The 685 non-human hygiene disinfectants and 763 insecticides identified contained 152 and 97 different active-ingredient chemicals, respectively. The toxicity values and clinical health effects of total twelve ingredient chemicals were determined through a brief overview of toxicity studies aimed at estimating human health risks. To estimate actual exposure amounts divided by twelve occupational groups, the time spent to apply the products was investigated from the beginning to end of the product use. This study investigated the exposure assessment of occupational exposure to biocidal products used in workplaces, multi-use facilities, and general facilities. Furthermore, this study provides valuable information on occupational exposure that may be useful to conduct accurate exposure assessment and to manage products used for quarantine in general facilities.
The Toxicity Exerted by the Antibiotic Sulfadiazine on the Growth of Soil Bacterial Communities May Increase over Time
Authors: Santás-Miguel Vanesa , Rodríguez-González Laura , Núñez-Delgado Avelino , Díaz-Raviña Montserrat , Arias-Estévez Manuel , Fernández-Calviño David
Published: November 2020

The toxicity exerted by the antibiotic sulfadiazine on the growth of soil bacterial communities was studied in two agricultural soils for a period of 100 days. In the short-term (2 days of incubation), the effect of sulfadiazine on bacterial growth was low (no inhibition or inhibition <32% for a dose of 2000 mg·kg−1). However, sulfadiazine toxicity increased with time, achieving values of 40% inhibition, affecting bacterial growth in both soils after 100 days of incubation. These results, which were here observed for the first time for any antibiotic in soil samples, suggest that long-term experiments would be required for performing an adequate antibiotics risk assessment, as short-term experiments may underestimate toxicity effects.
Specialised Teachers’ Perceptions on the Management of Aggressive Behaviours in Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Jung Miran , Lee Eunmi
Published: November 2020

This study aimed to explore and describe the perception of specialized teachers regarding the management of aggressive behaviors in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders. Data were collected from 13 specialized teachers working in primary and secondary schools, using focus group interviews, and interview data were analyzed using an open coding method. The analysis of the specialized teachers’ perceptions of the management of aggression in children and adolescents with autism revealed the following results. A central theme “consistent practices to smooth edges” was conceptualized along with the categories: educational responses to individual behaviors, which had sub-themes of “identification of aggressive behavior patterns” and “strategic responses to aggressive behaviors observed”; experience in interventions for aggressive behaviors, with sub-themes of “individual intervention practices” and “school-led therapeutic support” and “factors preventing mitigation of aggression”; and acceptance of virtual reality (VR) based intervention model for aggression, with sub-themes of “acceptance of VR-based program applications” and “proposal for VR-based program contents.” Based on the specialized teachers’ perceptions examined in this study, more effective education and training intervention programs and support systems can be developed and provided for the management of aggressive behaviors in children and adolescents with autism.
Risk Factors Associated with Malnutrition among Children Under-Five Years in Sub-Saharan African Countries: A Scoping Review
Authors: Obasohan Phillips Edomwonyi , Walters Stephen J. , Jacques Richard , Khatab Khaled
Published: November 2020

Background/Purpose: Malnutrition is a significant global public health burden with greater concern among children under five years in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). To effectively address the problem of malnutrition, especially in resource-scarce communities, knowing the prevalence, causes and risk factors associated with it are essential steps. This scoping review aimed to identify the existing literature that uses classical regression analysis on nationally representative health survey data sets to find the individual socioeconomic, demographic and contextual risk factors associated with malnutrition among children under five years of age in Sub-Sahara Africa (SSA). Methods: The electronic databases searched include EMBASE (OVID platform), PubMed (MEDLINE), Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Scopus, Web of Science (WoS) and Cochrane Library. Only papers written in the English language, and for which the publication date was between 1 January 1990 and 31 July 2020, were included. Results: A total of 229 papers were identified, of which 26 were studies that have been included in the review. The risk factors for malnutrition identified were classified as child-related, parental/household-related and community or area-related. Conclusions: Study-interest bias toward stunting over other anthropometric indicators of malnutrition could be addressed with a holistic research approach to equally address the various dimension of the anthropometric indicators of malnutrition in a population.
Usability and Acceptability of a Novel Secondary Prevention Initiative Targeting Physical Activity for Individuals after a Transient Ischaemic Attack or “Minor” Stroke: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Heron Neil , O’Connor Sean R. , Kee Frank , Mant Jonathan , Cupples Margaret E. , Donnelly Michael
Published: November 2020

Behavioural interventions that address cardiovascular risk factors such as physical inactivity and hypertension help reduce recurrence risk following a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) or “minor” stroke, but an optimal approach for providing secondary prevention is unclear. After developing an initial draft of an innovative manual for patients, aiming to promote secondary prevention following TIA or minor stroke, we aimed to explore views about its usability and acceptability amongst relevant stakeholders. We held three focus group discussions with 18 participants (people who had experienced a TIA or minor stroke (4), carers (1), health professionals (9), and researchers (4). Reflexive thematic analysis identified the following three inter-related themes: (1) relevant information and content, (2) accessibility of format and helpful structure, and (3) strategies to optimise use and implementation in practice. Information about stroke, medication, diet, physical activity, and fatigue symptoms was valued. Easily accessed advice and practical tips were considered to provide support and reassurance and promote self-evaluation of lifestyle behaviours. Suggested refinements of the manual’s design highlighted the importance of simplifying information and providing reassurance for patients early after a TIA or minor stroke. Information about fatigue, physical activity, and supporting goal setting was viewed as a key component of this novel secondary prevention initiative.
The Relationship between Physical Exercise and Cognitive Function in Korean Middle Aged and Elderly Adults without Dementia
Authors: Koh Youngseung , Oh Yeonsu , Park Haesung , Kim Woorim , Park Eun-Cheol
Published: November 2020

This study investigated the association between physical exercise and cognitive function in Koreans aged 45 years or above without dementia. Data from the 2006 to 2018 Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging (KLoSA) were used. The general characteristics of the study population were investigated using analysis of variance (ANOVA). The association between total exercise time per week and cognitive function, measured based on the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores, was investigated using the generalized estimating equation (GEE) model. Subgroup analysis was conducted based on age, educational level, and marital status. A total of 8888 participants were investigated, of which 5173 (58.2%) individuals did not exercise regularly. Among participants who did exercise, 676 (7.6%) individuals were categorized into the Q1, 1157 (13.0%) into the Q2, 908 (10.2%) into the Q3, and 974 (11.0%) into the Q4 group. The mean MMSE score was 26.81 ± 3.17. Compared to the ‘no’ exercise group, better MMSE scores were found in the Q1 (β: 0.3523, p ≤ 0.0001), the Q2 (β: 0.2011, p ≤ 0.0001), the Q3 (β: 0.4075, p ≤ 0.0001), and the Q4 groups (β: 0.3144, p ≤ 0.0001) after adjustment. The magnitude of this association was stronger in participants aged 65 years or above and in single or separated individuals. The findings of this study confirm a positive association between physical exercise and MMSE scores in the middle aged and elderly.
Analysing the Relationship between University Students’ Ecological Footprint and Their Connection with Nature and Pro-Environmental Attitude
Authors: Fernández Mónica , Cebrián Gisela , Regadera Elisa , Fernández M. Yolanda
Published: November 2020

In the last decade, universities worldwide have adopted various measures intended to promote sustainability in higher education and include it in the curriculum. However, although this paradigm shift appears to be contributing to students’ acquisition of the knowledge, skills and values necessary to fight for a more sustainable world, serious global crises such as the present SARS-CoV-2 pandemic oblige us to rethink our behaviour and spur us to accelerate the move towards a deep-seated commitment to the environment and people. Therefore, the aims of this study were (a) to explore consumption habits in students at four Spanish universities by analysing their individual ecological footprint (EF); (b) to develop indices of connection with nature and a pro-environmental attitude and to determine relationships between these indices and students’ consumption. Among other factors, our results showed that private university students have a higher EF than public university students; that food consumption has the greatest impact on individuals’ EF; and that those who consume more sustainably do not show a more pro-environmental attitude or feel a greater connection with nature. Therefore, we conclude that there was no apparent direct relationship between study participants’ convictions and their daily behaviour. There is a pressing need in education to demonstrate the connection between our actions and their environmental impact.
Drinking Ice-Cold Water Reduces the Severity of Anticancer Drug-Induced Taste Dysfunction in Mice
Authors: Osaki Ayana , Sanematsu Keisuke , Yamazoe Junichi , Hirose Fumie , Watanabe Yu , Kawabata Yuko , Oike Asami , Hirayama Ayaka , Yamada Yu , Iwata Shusuke , Takai Shingo , Wada Naohisa , Shigemura Noriatsu
Published: November 2020

Taste disorders are common adverse effects of cancer chemotherapy that can reduce quality of life and impair nutritional status. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying chemotherapy-induced taste disorders remain largely unknown. Furthermore, there are no effective preventive measures for chemotherapy-induced taste disorders. We investigated the effects of a combination of three anticancer drugs (TPF: docetaxel, cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil) on the structure and function of mouse taste tissues and examined whether the drinking of ice-cold water after TPF administration would attenuate these effects. TPF administration significantly increased the number of cells expressing apoptotic and proliferative markers. Furthermore, TPF administration significantly reduced the number of cells expressing taste cell markers and the magnitudes of the responses of taste nerves to tastants. The above results suggest that anticancer drug-induced taste dysfunction may be due to a reduction in the number of taste cells expressing taste-related molecules. The suppressive effects of TPF on taste cell marker expression and taste perception were reduced by the drinking of ice-cold water. We speculate that oral cryotherapy with an ice cube might be useful for prophylaxis against anticancer drug-induced taste disorders in humans.
A Single Cysteine Residue in the Translocation Pathway of the Mitosomal ADP/ATP Carrier from Cryptosporidium parvum Confers a Broad Nucleotide Specificity
Authors: King Martin , Tavoulari Sotiria , Mavridou Vasiliki , King Alannah , Mifsud John , Kunji Edmund
Published: November 2020

Cryptosporidiumparvum is a clinically important eukaryotic parasite that causes the disease cryptosporidiosis, which manifests with gastroenteritis-like symptoms. The protist has mitosomes, which are organelles of mitochondrial origin that have only been partially characterized. The genome encodes a highly reduced set of transport proteins of the SLC25 mitochondrial carrier family of unknown function. Here, we have studied the transport properties of one member of the C. parvum carrier family, demonstrating that it resembles the mitochondrial ADP/ATP carrier of eukaryotes. However, this carrier has a broader substrate specificity for nucleotides, transporting adenosine, thymidine, and uridine di- and triphosphates in contrast to its mitochondrial orthologues, which have a strict substrate specificity for ADP and ATP. Inspection of the putative translocation pathway highlights a cysteine residue, which is a serine in mitochondrial ADP/ATP carriers. When the serine residue is replaced by cysteine or larger hydrophobic residues in the yeast mitochondrial ADP/ATP carrier, the substrate specificity becomes broad, showing that this residue is important for nucleotide base selectivity in ADP/ATP carriers.
NPM1-Mutated Myeloid Neoplasms with <20% Blasts: A Really Distinct Clinico-Pathologic Entity?
Authors: Forghieri Fabio , Nasillo Vincenzo , Paolini Ambra , Bettelli Francesca , Pioli Valeria , Giusti Davide , Gilioli Andrea , Colasante Corrado , Acquaviva Gloria , Riva Giovanni , Barozzi Patrizia , Maffei Rossana , Potenza Leonardo , Marasca Roberto , Fozza Claudio , Tagliafico Enrico , Trenti Tommaso , Comoli Patrizia , Longo Giuseppe , Luppi Mario
Published: November 2020

Nucleophosmin (NPM1) gene mutations rarely occur in non-acute myeloid neoplasms (MNs) with <20% blasts. Among nearly 10,000 patients investigated so far, molecular analyses documented NPM1 mutations in around 2% of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) cases, mainly belonging to MDS with excess of blasts, and 3% of myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasm (MDS/MPN) cases, prevalently classified as chronic myelomonocytic leukemia. These uncommon malignancies are associated with an aggressive clinical course, relatively rapid progression to overt acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and poor survival outcomes, raising controversies on their classification as distinct clinico-pathologic entities. Furthermore, fit patients with NPM1-mutated MNs with <20% blasts could benefit most from upfront intensive chemotherapy for AML rather than from moderate intensity MDS-directed therapies, although no firm conclusion can currently be drawn on best therapeutic approaches, due to the limited available data, obtained from small and mainly retrospective series. Caution is also suggested in definitely diagnosing NPM1-mutated MNs with blast count <20%, since NPM1-mutated AML cases frequently present dysplastic features and multilineage bone marrow cells showing abnormal cytoplasmic NPM1 protein delocalization by immunohistochemical staining, therefore belonging to NPM1-mutated clone regardless of blast morphology. Further prospective studies are warranted to definitely assess whether NPM1 mutations may become sufficient to diagnose AML, irrespective of blast percentage.
Anti-Tumor Effects of Sodium Meta-Arsenite in Glioblastoma Cells with Higher Akt Activities
Authors: Lee Eun Jeong , Sung Jee Young , Koo Kyung Hee , Park Jong Bae , Kim Dae Hong , Shim Jaegal , Lee Chang Hoon , Park Jongsun , Kim Yong-Nyun
Published: November 2020

Glioblastoma is a type of aggressive brain tumor that grows very fast and evades surrounding normal brain, lead to treatment failure. Glioblastomas are associated with Akt activation due to somatic alterations in PI3 kinase/Akt pathway and/or PTEN tumor suppressor. Sodium meta-arsenite, KML001 is an orally bioavailable, water-soluble, and trivalent arsenical and it shows antitumoral effects in several solid tumor cells via inhibiting oncogenic signaling, including Akt and MAPK. Here, we evaluated the effect of sodium meta-arsenite, KML001, on the growth of human glioblastoma cell lines with different PTEN expression status and Akt activation, including PTEN-deficient cells (U87-MG and U251) and PTEN-positive cells (LN229). The growth-inhibitory effect of KML001 was stronger in U87-MG and U251 cells, which exhibited higher Akt activity than LN229 cells. KML001 deactivated Akt and decreased its protein levels via proteasomal degradation in U87-MG cells. KML001 upregulated mutant PTEN levels via inhibition of its proteasomal degradation. KML001 inhibited cell growth more effectively in active Akt-overexpressing LN229 cells than in mock-expressing LN229 cells. Consistent with these results, KML001 sensitized PTEN-deficient cells more strongly to growth inhibition than it did PTEN-positive cells in prostate and breast cancer cell lines. Finally, we illustrated in vivo anti-tumor effects of KML001 using an intracranial xenograft mouse model. These results suggest that KML001 could be an effective chemotherapeutic drug for the treatment of glioblastoma cancer patients with higher Akt activity and PTEN loss.
Overcoming Immune Evasion in Melanoma
Authors: Eddy Kevinn , Chen Suzie
Published: November 2020

Melanoma is the most aggressive and dangerous form of skin cancer that develops from transformed melanocytes. It is crucial to identify melanoma at its early stages, in situ, as it is “curable” at this stage. However, after metastasis, it is difficult to treat and the five-year survival is only 25%. In recent years, a better understanding of the etiology of melanoma and its progression has made it possible for the development of targeted therapeutics, such as vemurafenib and immunotherapies, to treat advanced melanomas. In this review, we focus on the molecular mechanisms that mediate melanoma development and progression, with a special focus on the immune evasion strategies utilized by melanomas, to evade host immune surveillances. The proposed mechanism of action and the roles of immunotherapeutic agents, ipilimumab, nivolumab, pembrolizumab, and atezolizumab, adoptive T- cell therapy plus T-VEC in the treatment of advanced melanoma are discussed. In this review, we implore that a better understanding of the steps that mediate melanoma onset and progression, immune evasion strategies exploited by these tumor cells, and the identification of biomarkers to predict treatment response are critical in the design of improved strategies to improve clinical outcomes for patients with this deadly disease.
RAGE Signaling in Melanoma Tumors
Authors: Olaoba Olamide T. , Kadasah Sultan , Vetter Stefan W. , Leclerc Estelle
Published: November 2020

Despite recent progresses in its treatment, malignant cutaneous melanoma remains a cancer with very poor prognosis. Emerging evidences suggest that the receptor for advance glycation end products (RAGE) plays a key role in melanoma progression through its activation in both cancer and stromal cells. In tumors, RAGE activation is fueled by numerous ligands, S100B and HMGB1 being the most notable, but the role of many other ligands is not well understood and should not be underappreciated. Here, we provide a review of the current role of RAGE in melanoma and conclude that targeting RAGE in melanoma could be an approach to improve the outcomes of melanoma patients.
Assessment of End-User Susceptibility to Cybersecurity Threats in Saudi Arabia by Simulating Phishing Attacks
Authors: Aljeaid Dania , Alzhrani Amal , Alrougi Mona , Almalki Oroob
Published: November 2020

Phishing attacks are cybersecurity threats that have become increasingly sophisticated. Phishing is a cyberattack that can be carried out using various approaches and techniques. Usually, an attacker uses trickery as well as fraudulent and disguised means to steal valuable personal information or to deceive the victim into running malicious code, thereby gaining access and controlling the victim’s systems. This study focuses on evaluating the level of cybersecurity knowledge and cyber awareness in Saudi Arabia. It is aimed at assessing end-user susceptibility through three phishing attack simulations. Furthermore, we elaborate on some of the concepts related to phishing attacks and review the steps required to launch such attacks. Subsequently, we briefly discuss the tools and techniques associated with each attack simulation. Finally, a comprehensive analysis is conducted to assess and evaluate the results.
Sentiment Analysis and Text Mining of Questionnaires to Support Telemonitoring Programs
Authors: Zucco Chiara , Paglia Clarissa , Graziano Sonia , Bella Sergio , Cannataro Mario
Published: November 2020

While several studies have shown how telemedicine and, in particular, home telemonitoring programs lead to an improvement in the patient’s quality of life, a reduction in hospitalizations, and lower healthcare costs, different variables may affect telemonitoring effectiveness and purposes. In the present paper, an integrated software system, based on Sentiment Analysis and Text Mining, to deliver, collect, and analyze questionnaire responses in telemonitoring programs is presented. The system was designed to be a complement to home telemonitoring programs with the objective of investigating the paired relationship between opinions and the adherence scores of patients and their changes through time. The novel contributions of the system are: (i) the design and software prototype for the management of online questionnaires over time; and (ii) an analysis pipeline that leverages a sentiment polarity score by using it as a numerical feature for the integration and the evaluation of open-ended questions in clinical questionnaires. The software pipeline was initially validated with a case-study application to discuss the plausibility of the existence of a directed relationship between a score representing the opinion polarity of patients about telemedicine, and their adherence score, which measures how well patients follow the telehomecare program. In this case-study, 169 online surveys sent by 38 patients enrolled in a home telemonitoring program provided by the Cystic Fibrosis Unit at the “Bambino Gesù” Children’s Hospital in Rome, Italy, were collected and analyzed. The experimental results show that, under a Granger-causality perspective, a predictive relationship may exist between the considered variables. If supported, these preliminary results may have many possible implications of practical relevance, for instance the early detection of poor adherence in patients to enable the application of personalized and targeted actions.
Optical Readout of the ARIADNE LArTPC Using a Timepix3-Based Camera
Authors: Lowe Adam , Majumdar Krishanu , Mavrokoridis Konstantinos , Philippou Barney , Roberts Adam , Touramanis Christos , Vann Jared
Published: November 2020

The ARIADNE Experiment, utilising a 1-ton dual-phase Liquid Argon Time Projection Chamber (LArTPC), aims to develop and mature optical readout technology for large scale LAr detectors. This paper describes the characterisation, using cosmic muons, of a Timepix3-based camera mounted on the ARIADNE detector. The raw data from the camera are natively 3D and zero suppressed, allowing for straightforward event reconstruction, and a gallery of reconstructed LAr interaction events is presented. Taking advantage of the 1.6 ns time resolution of the readout, the drift velocity of the ionised electrons in LAr was determined to be 1.608 ± 0.005 mm/μs at 0.54 kV/cm. Energy calibration and resolution were determined using through-going muons. The energy resolution was found to be approximately 11% for the presented dataset. A preliminary study of the energy deposition (dEdX) as a function of distance has also been performed for two stopping muon events, and comparison to GEANT4 simulation shows good agreement. The results presented demonstrate the capabilities of this technology, and its application is discussed in the context of the future kiloton-scale dual-phase LAr detectors that will be used in the DUNE programme.
Unknown Subclinical Hypothyroidism and In-Hospital Outcomes and Short- and Long-Term All-Cause Mortality among ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Izkhakov Elena , Zahler David , Rozenfeld Keren-Lee , Ravid Dor , Banai Shmuel , Topilsky Yan , Stern Naftali , Greenman Yona , Shacham Yacov
Published: November 2020

Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) is defined as an elevated serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level with a normal serum-free thyroxine (FT4) level. SCH has been associated with an increased risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes. We investigated possible associations of unknown SCH with in-hospital outcomes and short- and long-term all-cause mortality in a large cohort of patients with ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). This retrospective, single-center observational study evaluated the TSH and FT4 levels of 1593 STEMI patients with no known history of hypothyroidism or thyroid replacement treatment who were admitted to the coronary care unit and underwent PCI between 1/2008 and 8/2017. SCH was defined as TSH levels ≥ 5 mU/mL in the presence of normal FT4 levels. Unknown SCH was detected in 68/1593 (4.2%) STEMI patients. These patients had significantly worse in-hospital outcomes compared to patients without SCH, including higher rates of acute kidney injury (p = 0.003) and left ventricular ejection fraction ≤ 40% (p = 0.03). Moreover, 30-day mortality (p = 0.02) and long-term (mean 4.2 ± 2.3 years) mortality (p = 0.007) were also significantly higher in patients with SCH. The thyroid function of STEMI patients should be routinely tested before they undergo a planned PCI procedure.
Association between Primary Perioperative CEA Ratio, Tumor Site, and Overall Survival in Patients with Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Odeny Thomas A. , Farha Nicole , Hildebrandand Hannah , Allen Jessica , Vazquez Wilfred , Martinez Maximillian , Paluri Ravi Kumar , Kasi Anup
Published: November 2020

There are differences in the incidence, clinical presentation, molecular pathogenesis, and outcome of colorectal cancer (CRC) based on tumor location. Emerging research suggests that the perioperative carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) ratio (post-op/pre-op CEA) is a prognostic factor for CRC patients. We aimed to determine the association between CEA ratio, tumor location, and overall survival (OS) among patients with CRC. We analyzed 427 patients who underwent resection for CRC at the University of Kansas Medical Center. After excluding those without pre- or post-operative CEA data, 207 patients were classified as either high (≥0.5) or low (<0.5) ratio. Primary outcomes were as follows: (1) OS stratified by CEA ratio; (2) OS stratified by tumor location; (3) OS stratified by tumor location among those with CEA elevation > 5 ng/mL at the time of recurrence. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to estimate survival rates. The median age was 62 years (inter-quartile range 51–71), 55% were male, 41% were smokers, 71% had left-sided tumors, the median pre-operative CEA was 3.1 ng/mL (inter-quartile range (IQR) 1.5–9.7), and 57% had a CEA ratio ≥0.5. The OS rates were 65.1% and 86.3% in patients with high versus low CEA ratios, respectively (log-rank p-value = 0.045). The OS rates were 64.4% and 77.3% in patients with right-sided vs. left-sided tumors, respectively (log-rank p-value = 0.5). Among patients with CEA levels greater than 5 at the time of recurrence, the OS rates were 42.9% and 43.4% in patients with right-sided vs. left-sided tumors, respectively (log-rank p-value = 0.7). There was a significantly higher survival among patients with low CEA ratios than among those with high CEA ratios. There was no difference in OS between left- versus right-sided tumors. Among patients with CEA elevation > 5 ng/mL at the time of recurrence, there was no difference in OS between left versus right-sided tumors. These findings warrant validation in a larger cohort as our sample size was limited.
Bucket of Deep Transfer Learning Features and Classification Models for Melanoma Detection
Authors: Manzo Mario , Pellino Simone
Published: November 2020

Malignant melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer and, in recent years, is rapidly growing in terms of the incidence worldwide rate. The most effective approach to targeted treatment is early diagnosis. Deep learning algorithms, specifically convolutional neural networks, represent a methodology for the image analysis and representation. They optimize the features design task, essential for an automatic approach on different types of images, including medical. In this paper, we adopted pretrained deep convolutional neural networks architectures for the image representation with purpose to predict skin lesion melanoma. Firstly, we applied a transfer learning approach to extract image features. Secondly, we adopted the transferred learning features inside an ensemble classification context. Specifically, the framework trains individual classifiers on balanced subspaces and combines the provided predictions through statistical measures. Experimental phase on datasets of skin lesion images is performed and results obtained show the effectiveness of the proposed approach with respect to state-of-the-art competitors.
Process Optimization for 100 W Nanosecond Pulsed Fiber Laser Engraving of 316L Grade Stainless Steel
Authors: Dondieu Stephen D. , Wlodarczyk Krystian L. , Harrison Paul , Rosowski Adam , Gabzdyl Jack , Reuben Robert L. , Hand Duncan P.
Published: November 2020

High average power (>50 W) nanosecond pulsed fiber lasers are now routinely available owing to the demand for high throughput laser applications. However, in some applications, scale-up in average power has a detrimental effect on process quality due to laser-induced thermal accumulation in the workpiece. To understand the laser–material interactions in this power regime, and how best to optimize process performance and quality, we investigated the influence of laser parameters such as pulse duration, energy dose (i.e., total energy deposited per unit area), and pulse repetition frequency (PRF) on engraving 316L stainless steel. Two different laser beam scanning strategies, namely, sequential method (SM) and interlacing method (IM), were examined. For each set of parameters, the material removal rate (MRR) and average surface roughness (Sa) were measured using an Alicona 3D surface profilometer. A phenomenological model has been used to help identify the best combination of laser parameters for engraving. Specifically, this study has found that (i) the model serves as a quick way to streamline parameters for area engraving (ii) increasing the pulse duration and energy dose at certain PRF results in a high MRR, albeit with an associated increase in Sa, and (iii) the IM offers 84% reduction in surface roughness at a higher MRR compared to SM. Ultimately, high quality at high throughput engraving is demonstrated using optimized process parameters.
The Influence of Servo Drive Control on the NC Vertical Milling Machine Dynamic Compliance
Authors: Grau Jan , Souček Pavel , Sulitka Matěj
Published: November 2020

A model Numerical Control (NC) machine tool dynamic compliance is analyzed, including the influence of its mechanical structure and position control feed drive algorithms. The dynamic model of the machine tool is divided into two main parts, which are closest to the machining process. First, the milling head assembly group is presented as a system of one mass oscillating in a 2D plane and 3D space. Second, the motion axes assembly group, XY cross table with linear feed drive, is presented. A square 2×2 dimension matrix of the total dynamic compliance is evaluated within the feed drive control system included. Partial elements of the mechanical structure dynamic compliance matrix of the general N×N dimension are contained in the total dynamic compliance matrix.
Reengineering, Simulation and Data Analysis of an RFID System
Authors: Bottani1 Eleonora
Published: November 2020

We present a discrete event simulation model reproducing the adoption of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology for the optimal management of common logistics processes of a Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) warehouse. In this study, simulation is exploited as a powerful tool to replicate both the reengineered RFID logistics processes and the flows of Electronic Product Code (EPC) data generated by such processes. Moreover, a complex tool has been developed to analyze data resulting from the simulation runs, thus addressing the issue of how the flows of EPC data generated by RFID technology can be exploited to provide value-added information for optimally managing the logistics processes. Specifically, an EPCIS compliant Data Warehouse has been designed to act as EPCIS Repository and store EPC data resulting from simulation. Starting from EPC data, properly designed tools, referred to as Business Intelligence Modules, provide value-added information for processes optimization. Due to the newness of RFID adoption in the logistics context and to the lack of real case examples that can be examined, we believe that both the model and the data management system developed can be very useful to understand the practical implications of the technology and related information flow, as well as to show how to leverage EPC data for process management. Results of the study can provide a proof-of-concept to substantiate the adoption of RFID technology in the FMCG industry.
Traceable Air Baggage Handling System Based on RFID Tags in the Airport
Authors: Zhang Ting , Ouyang Yuanxin , He Yang
Published: November 2020

The RFID is not only a feasible, novel, and cost-effective candidate for daily object identification but it is also considered as a significant tool to provide traceable visibility along different stages of the aviation supply chain. In the air baggage handing application, the RFID tags are used to enhance the ability for baggage tracking, dispatching and conveyance so as to improve the management efficiency and the users’ satisfaction. We surveyed current related work and introduce the IATA RP1740c protocol used for the standard to recognize the baggage tags. One distributed aviation baggage traceable application is designed based on the RFID networks. We describe the RFID-based baggage tracking experiment in the BCIA (Beijing Capital International Airport). In this experiment the tags are sealed in the printed baggage label and the RFID readers are fixed in the certain interested positions of the BHS in the Terminal 2. We measure the accurate recognition rate and monitor the baggage’s real-time situation on the monitor’s screen. Through the analysis of the measured results within two months we emphasize the advantage of the adoption of RFID tags in this high noisy BHS environment. The economical benefits achieved by the extensive deployment of RFID in the baggage handing system are also outlined.
Assessment of Effects of Laser Light Combining Three Wavelengths (450, 520 and 640 nm) on Temperature Increase and Depth of Tissue Lesions in an Ex Vivo Study
Authors: Jurczyszyn Kamil , Trzeciakowski Witold , Woźniak Zdzisław , Ziółkowski Piotr , Trafalski Mateusz
Published: November 2020

Background: Lasers are widely used in medicine in soft and hard tissue surgeries and biostimulation. Studies found in literature typically compare the effects of single-wavelength lasers on tissues or cell cultures. In our study, we used a diode laser capable of emitting three components of visible light (640 nm, red; 520 nm, green; 450 nm, blue) and combining them in a single beam. The aim of the study was to assess the effects of laser radiation in the visible spectrum on tissue in vitro, depending on the wavelength and pulse width. Methods: All irradiations were performed using the same output power (1.5 W). We used various duty cycles: 10, 50, 80 and 100% with 100 Hz frequency. Maximum superficial temperature, rate of temperature increase and lesion depth were investigated. Results: Maximum superficial temperature was observed for 450 + 520 nm irradiation (100% duty cycle). The highest rate of increase of temperature was noted for 450 + 520 nm (100% duty cycle). Maximum lesion depth was observed in case of three-wavelength irradiation (450 + 520 + 640 nm) for 100, 80 and 50% duty cycles. Conclusions: The synergistic effect of two-wavelength (450 + 520 nm) irradiation was observed in case of maximum temperature measurement. The deepest depth of lesion was noted after three-wavelength irradiation (450 + 520 + 640 nm).
Reversible Redox Property of Co(III) in Amorphous Co-doped SiO2/γ-Al2O3 Layered Composites
Authors: Tada Shotaro , Saito Shota , Mori Akito , Mizuno Hideki , Ando Shiori , Asaka Toru , Daiko Yusuke , Honda Sawao , Bernard Samuel , Iwamoto Yuji
Published: November 2020

This paper reports on a unique reversible reducing and oxidizing (redox) property of Co(III) in Co-doped amorphous SiO2/γ-Al2O3 composites. The Fenton reaction during the H2O2-catalyzed sol–gel synthesis utilized in this study lead to the partial formation of Co(III) in addition to Co(II) within the composites. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM) analyses for the composite powder sample with a composition of Al:Si:Co = 85:10:5 showed the amorphous state of the Co-doped SiO2 that modified γ-Al2O3 nanocrystalline surfaces. In situ X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) spectroscopic analysis suggested reversible redox reactions of Co species in the composite powder sample during heat-treatment under H2 at 500 °C followed by subsequent cooling to RT under Ar. Further analyses by in situ IR spectroscopy combined with cyclic temperature programmed reduction/desorption (TPR/TPD) measurements and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic (XPS) analysis revealed that the alternating Co(III)/(II) redox reactions were associated with OH formation (hydrogenation)-deformation (dehydrogenation) of the amorphous aluminosilicate matrix formed in situ at the SiO2/γ-Al2O3 hetero interface, and the redox reactions were governed by the H2 partial pressure at 250–500 °C. As a result, a supported mesoporous γ-Al2O3/Co-doped amorphous SiO2/mesoporous γ-Al2O3 three-layered composite membrane exhibited an H2-triggered chemical valve property: mesopores under H2 flow (open) and micropores under He flow (closure) at 300–500 °C.
Uniaxial Dynamic Compressive Behaviors of Hydraulic Asphalt Concrete under the Coupling Effect between Temperature and Strain Rate
Authors: Tang Rui , Yu Zhenpeng , Liu Guoqing , Li Furong , Tang Wenbin
Published: November 2020

To investigate the compressive dynamic properties of hydraulic asphalt concrete under various temperatures, four temperatures and four strain rates have been set to perform the uniaxial compression experiments using hydraulic servo machine in this paper. The influence of temperature and strain rate on the failure modes, stress-strain curves and mechanical characteristic parameters of hydraulic asphalt concrete is analyzed and the results reveal that the failure modes and stress-strain curves have significant temperature effect. When the temperature is between −20 °C and 0 °C, the failure mode is dominated by brittle failure of asphalt binder, and hydraulic asphalt concrete shows obvious strain softening. With the addition of temperature, the failure modes of specimens are transferred from brittle failure to ductile failure since the asphalt changes from elastic-brittleness to viscoelasticity. Influenced by temperature effect, the compressive stress-strain curves of hydraulic asphalt concrete show strain hardening while the peak stress of hydraulic asphalt concrete is obviously decreased, and the variation coefficient of peak stress has a power relation with temperature. With successive increases in strain rate, the stress-strain curves of hydraulic asphalt concrete gradually are transferred from strain hardening to strain softening. The peak stress and stiffness modulus of specimens under compression gradually increase, and the dynamic increase factor of peak stress is linearly related with the logarithm value of strain rate after dimensionless treatment. In terms of the quantitative analysis of the experimental data, two relationship models of the coupling effect between temperature and strain rate are proposed. The proposed models have good applicability to the quantitative analysis of the experimental results in the manuscript. This paper offers important insights into the application and development of hydraulic asphalt concrete in hydraulic engineering.
Impact Analysis of Thermally Pre-Damaged Reinforced Concrete Frames
Authors: Ožbolt Joško , Lacković Luka , Ruta Daniela
Published: November 2020

In the present study, the influence of thermally induced damage of reinforced concrete (RC) frames on their static and dynamic response is experimentally and numerically investigated. In the experimental test, the RC frame is first pre-damaged through fire exposure and then loaded from the side with the impact of a steel pendulum. To verify the recently developed coupled thermo-mechanical model for concrete, transient 3D FE simulation is carried out. The rate and temperature-dependent microplane model is used as a constitutive law for concrete. It is first shown that the simulation is able to realistically replicate the experimental test. Subsequently, the numerical parametric study is performed where the dynamic and static response of RC frame is simulated for both hot and cold states. It is shown that the pre-damage of RC frame through fire exposure significantly reduces the resistance and changes the response. Finally, it is demonstrated that for the impact load the rate sensitive constitutive law of concrete significantly contributes to the response of RC frame.
Deformation Behavior of Nanocrystalline Body-Centered Cubic Iron with Segregated, Foreign Interstitial: A Molecular Dynamics Study
Authors: AlMotasem Ahmed Tamer , Posselt Matthias , Polcar Tomas
Published: November 2020

In the present work, modified embedded atom potential and large-scale molecular dynamics’ simulations were used to explore the effect of grain boundary (GB) segregated foreign interstitials on the deformation behavior of nanocrystalline (nc) iron. As a case study, carbon and nitrogen (about 2.5 at.%) were added to (nc) iron. The tensile test results showed that, at the onset of plasticity, grain boundary sliding mediated was dominated, whereas both dislocations and twinning were prevailing deformation mechanisms at high strain. Adding C/N into GBs reduces the free excess volume and consequently increases resistance to GB sliding. In agreement with experiments, the flow stress increased due to the presence of carbon or nitrogen and carbon had the stronger impact. Additionally, the simulation results revealed that GB reduction and suppressing GBs’ dislocation were the primary cause for GB strengthening. Moreover, we also found that the stress required for both intragranular dislocation and twinning nucleation were strongly dependent on the solute type.