bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Optimal control problem arises from illegal poaching of southern white rhino mathematical model
Authors: Aldila Dipo , Azizah Nadhira , Handari Bevina D. 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
In this paper, a novel dynamical population model of a southern white rhino with legal and illegal poaching activity is introduced. The model constructed is based on a predator–prey model with southern white rhinos as prey and humans (hunters) as predators. We divide the southern white rhino population into three classes based on their horn condition. We investigate the existence and the stability of the equilibrium points, which depend on some threshold functions. From an analytical result, it is trivial that arresting as many hunters as possible helps conserve white rhinos, but it comes at a high cost. Therefore, an optimal strategy is needed. The optimal control is then constructed using Pontryagin’s minimum principle and solved numerically with an iterative forward–backward method. Optimal control simulations are given to provide additional insight into the dynamics of the model. Analysis of the cost function effectiveness is conducted using the ACER (Average Cost–Effectiveness Ratio) and ICER (Incremental Cost–Effectiveness Ratio) indicator method. The results show that the hunter population can be more easily controlled with a time-dependent hunter arrest rate rather than by treating it as a constant.
Successful surgical procedure based on careful preoperative imaging for chronic idiopathic colonic pseudo-obstruction: a case report
Authors: Yoshimura Kosuke , Ohge Hiroki , Shimada Norimitsu , Uegami Shinnosuke , Watadani Yusuke , Nakashima Ikki , Hirano Toshinori , Kitagawa Hiroki , Kaiki Yuki , Takahashi Shinya 
Published: October 2020

Abstract

Background
Chronic idiopathic colonic pseudo-obstruction (CICP) is a rare disease, defined as a condition of the chronically damaged colon, without obstruction or stenosis, and a pathological abnormality in the myenteric plexus. To date, there is no effective medication for CICP, and existing medication is not useful, making surgery the only effective treatment. Laparoscopic surgery is useful for reducing surgical trauma and postoperative adhesion. Herein, we report a patient with recurrent laxative-uncontrolled bowel obstruction, who underwent successful treatment with laparoscopic total colectomy based on preoperative detailed evaluation of bowel function.

Case presentation
A 77-year-old female patient without any past abdominal or psychological medical history was referred to our hospital because of chronic constipation and abdominal pain. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography, barium enema, cine magnetic resonance imaging, and defecography indicated an enlarged colon from the cecum to the transverse colon (proximal to the splenic flexure) without apparent mechanical obstruction, and a collapsed colon from the descending colon to the rectum, with reduced peristalsis. Bowel movements of the rectum and anorectal function were normal. Based on these findings, we diagnosed CICP and performed laparoscopic total colectomy and ileo-rectal anastomosis in this case. Postoperative recovery was good, without the need for postoperative laxatives. Pathologically, no degeneration of the muscle layers or Auerbach’s plexus was found in the resected specimen.

Conclusion
Surgery is the only effective treatment for patients with CICP. Careful imaging before surgery is important for detecting the extent of excision required. This will reduce the need for additional surgery due to symptom relapse in the remnant colon. However, continued observation of the patient is required.
Impact of communication latency on distributed optimal power flow performance
Authors: Korner Clemens , Gavriluta Catalin , Pröstl Andrén Filip , Meisel Marcus , Sauter Thilo 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
In this work, we study the performance of a distributed optimal power flow control algorithm with respect to realistic communication quality of service. By making use of a communication network simulator, namely “GNS3”, we created a framework that simulates both the controllers involved in the optimal power flow algorithm and the communication between them. Using this platform, we investigate and give insights into the convergence time of the distributed algorithm when applied to the IEEE 13 and IEEE 123 node test feeders. By leveraging the simulation results, we define parameters on the network quality of service, such that the distributed optimal power flow algorithm could be used for secondary or tertiary control.To deal with the complexity induced by a large number of components involved in these simulations, we present a methodology to automate and streamline the generation and the analysis of simulation scenarios.
Agent-based bidirectional charging algorithms for battery electric vehicles in renewable energy communities
Authors: Surmann Arne , Walia Rohit , Kohrs Robert 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
This paper introduces a framework for agent based autonomous charging and discharging of Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) at local energy communities. Agents are programmed to control the bidirectional charging according to green energy utilisation incentives, based on load and generation forecasts. The optimization is achieved within a group of independent prosumers following a fully distributed approach using multiple self-organising agents. No central instance is needed for communication, billing or decision making. To demonstrate the ecological benefits of the system, simulations for a car pool, with a Photovoltaic (PV) plant, in a residential neighborhood were performed. The simulations resulted in an increased community PV self-consumption value of 48% compared to 29% in case of uncontrolled charging processes.
The battle against Covid-19: the experience of an Egyptian radiology department in a university setting
Authors: Mohammad Shaimaa AbdelSattar , Osman Ahmed M. , Abd-Elhameed Abeer Maghawry , Ahmed Khaled A. , Taha Noha M. , Saleh Ayman , Omar Ashraf , El-Meteini Mahmoud , Mohamed Mona Adel 
Published: October 2020

AbstractBackgroundThe current COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in marked and rapid changes to the standing policies of radiology departments globally. The aim of this review article is to describe the various processes implemented by a radiology department in an educational institution in a resource limited country during the COVID-19 crisis, giving insights into the adopted strategies in other institutions in developed countries.Main bodyOur preparedness strategy was directed into five main domains: protection and wellness of radiology faculty and staff, radiological examinations and patients’ safety, education, research, and financial support. By implementing new strategies, we found that work reorganization through the use of home PACS provided safe and effective reporting service, low infection rate with zero mortality, and online lectures and theses defense were successful. Furthermore, governmental support and donations were helpful in facing financial challenges during the pandemic. A comprehensive literature review search for policies adopted by other radiology departments in the world was performed. The adopted strategies of various centers are generally similar to ours aiming for mitigating the spread of the virus, keeping good patients’ care, and maintaining the educational process. Few policy differences across institutions were found in the reporting strategy of COVID-19 pneumonia and according to the availability of resources.ConclusionCovid-19 pandemic has opened the door for changes in the radiology department policies with renewed focus on educational, clinical, and scientific strategies. Documentation of the dynamic modifications of everyday practices and lessons learned are important as a reference for preparedness for possible second surge or future crisis.
Importance of congruence between communicating and executing implementation programmes: a qualitative study of focus group interviews
Authors: Lindholm Lars H. , Laitila Minna , Lassila Antero , Kampman Olli 
Published: October 2020

Abstract

Background
The Ostrobothnia Depression Programme (ODP) in Finland was intended to implement two evidence-based brief psychotherapy interventions, namely motivational interview and behavioural activation, in several regional psychiatric teams. A simultaneous effectiveness study was conducted. Considerable tension was encountered between these two arms, causing resistance to change. We conducted a qualitative case study to better understand this tension and to discuss how managerial and executive practices may ensure the successful running of a hybrid design programme.

Methods
We conducted focus group interviews to evaluate the phases of preparation and practical execution of the ODP from the perspectives of management and the programme executives. To gather the data, we applied the revised Socratic approach for health technology assessment and focus group interviews. We analysed the data deductively according to the Normalization Process Theory.

Results
We identified two main critical issues: (1) The ODP programme plan ignored the team leaders’ crucial role in influencing the implementation climate and mobilizing organizational strategies. The ODP had a simplistic top-down design with minimal and delayed collaboration with its target groups in the preparation phase. (2) Incongruence occurred between what the project group had explicitly communicated about being the spearhead of the ODP and what they then actually enacted. These two issues caused tension between the implementation efforts and the effectiveness study as well as resistance to change among the staff.

Conclusion
Early, open collaboration with all prospective stakeholders towards a shared understanding about the programme is the first action the programme administrators should take. Agreement on goals and the means to achieve them would lower tension between the two arms of a hybrid design programme, thereby reducing resistance to change. Congruence between the goals communicated and the actual managerial and executive actions is of paramount importance in getting the programme recipients on board.
Characterisation of palliative sedation use in inpatients at a medium-stay palliative care unit
Authors: Murillo-Zamora Efrén , García-López Nallely A , de Santiago-Ruiz Ana , Chávez-Lira Alcira Emperatriz , Mendoza-Cano Oliver , Guzmán-Esquivel José 
Published: October 2020

Background Palliative sedation has been used to refer to the practice of providing symptom control through the administration of sedative drugs. The objective of this article was to characterise palliative sedation use in inpatients at a medium-stay palliative care unit. Material and methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on 125 randomly selected patients (aged 15 or older) who had died in 2014. The Palliative Performance Scale was used to evaluate the functional status. Results Palliative sedation was documented in 34.4% of the patients and midazolam was the most commonly used sedative agent (86.0%). More than half (53.5%) of those who recieved sedation presented with delirium. Liver dysfunction was more frequent in the sedated patients (p=0.033) and patients with heart disease were less likely (p=0.026) to be sedated. Conclusion Palliative sedation is an ethically accepted practice. It was commonly midazolam-induced, and differences were documented, among sedated and non-sedated patients, in terms of liver dysfunction and heart disease.
Psychosocial predictors of asthma onset during mid-adulthood: evidence from the National Child Development Study
Authors: Hammond Cathie 
Published: October 2020

This paper provides evidence about how psychosocial factors predict asthma onset during mid-adulthood. Questions addressed are:
1. Do life course adversities predict asthma onset? What types of adversity are important?
2. What factors confound and mediate associations between childhood adversity and asthma onset?
3. In the context of life course adversity, do psychological factors predict asthma onset?
Data from the National Child Development Study from birth to age 42 were used. Asthma onset was measured between 33 and 42.
To reduce bias and maintain numbers, missing values were imputed in multiple data sets. Logistic regression analyses were conducted of asthma onset on life course adversities, classified as material (including occupation-related) and social (family-/relationship-related, child loss, traumatic). Nested models were used to address questions 2 and 3, and a wide range of factors tested.
After adjustment for gender, asthma onset during mid-adulthood was more common among cohort members who reported life course adversities (odds ratio per category = 1.232 (1.140–1.332)) in eight categories. Social adversities predicted asthma onset after adjustment for material adversities. The association between childhood adversity and asthma onset was mediated by subsequent adversity and depressive symptoms at 33. Asthma onset was predicted by female gender, atopic history, life course adversity, internalising childhood temperament and depressive symptoms at 33.
This study contributes to a small evidence base that life course adversities substantially increase the risk of adult-onset asthma, and highlights the importance of psychosocial pathways. The salience of depressive symptoms shortly before diagnosed onset is a new finding.
La actualidad de la integración suramericana
Authors: Hegedűs Barbara 
Published: October 2020

El objetivo del artículo es presentar el funcionamiento de la UNASUR, y analizar el futuro de la organización a la luz de las nuevas noticias. En el comienzo, los doce gobiernos que se suscribieron a la iniciativa de la Unión de Naciones Suramericanas, vieron en la organización una manera de coordinar las estrategias regionales, de fortalecer la economía de los países miembros, y como un nuevo elemento, de coordinar las políticas de seguridad y defensa conjuntas. Pero las crisis económicas de los países, la falta de interés y el viraje ideológico de los gobiernos de la región son las más notables causas que cuestionaron su funcionamiento. Primero un creciente número de miembros decidieron suspender su participación y ahora es incierto que exista interés para reparar lo que sucede dentro de la organización, o habrá otra iniciativa que la reemplace.
Diagnostic potential of miR-483 family for IGF-II producing non-islet cell tumor hypoglycemia
Authors: Nagao Mototsugu , Fukuda Izumi , Asai Akira , Esguerra Jonathan L S , Hizuka Naomi , Eliasson Lena , Sugihara Hitoshi 
Published: October 2020

Objective
In insulin-like growth factor II (IGF-II) producing non-islet cell tumor hypoglycemia (NICTH), high molecular weight forms of IGF-II (big IGF-II) are produced as a cause of spontaneous hypoglycemia. MicroRNA (miRNA)-483 family, encoded in an intron lesion of IGF2 gene, is suggested to be co-expressed with IGF-II. Here, we tested whether serum miR-483-5p and -3p levels are associated with the presence of big IGF-II in NICTH.

Design
Serum samples from patients who were suspected to have IGF-II producing NICTH (n = 42) were tested. MiR-483-5p and -3p levels were evaluated using quantitative PCR. IGF-II level was analyzed using ELISA. The presence of big IGF-II was identified by Western blotting.

Results
Big IGF-II was detected in the sera of 32 patients. MiR-483-5p (P = 0.0015) and -3p (P = 0.027) levels were significantly higher in sera with big IGF-II (n = 32) than in those without (n = 10), whereas serum IGF-II level (P = 0.055) was not significantly different between the groups. The median serum concentration of miR-483-5p was ~10 times higher than that of miR-483-3p. Although a strong correlation was observed between the two miRNAs (r = 0.844, P < 0.0001), but neither of which was correlated with serum IGF-II level. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves of miR-483-5p (0.853) and -3p (0.722) were higher than that of IGF-II (0.694) for detecting the presence of big IGF-II.

Conclusion
The associations of serum miR-483-5p and -3p levels with the presence of big IGF-II suggest the diagnostic potential of these miRNAs for IGF-II producing NICTH.
Effect of fibre type and content on performance of bio-based concrete containing heat-treated apricot shell
Authors: Wu Fan , Yu Qingliang , Liu Changwu , Brouwers H. J. H. , Wang Linfeng , Liu Defeng 
Published: October 2020

AbstractThe heat-treated apricot shell can be utilized as coarse aggregates for producing sustainable bio-based lightweight concrete with good compressive strength but poor tensile strength. In order to improve the tensile properties of apricot shell concrete (ASC), the effects of polypropylene (PP) fibre, glass (G) fibre and basalt (B) fibre at various volume fractions (Vf) (0.25%, 0.5% and 0.75%) on the performance of ASC were investigated. The results indicated that the fibre type had no significant effect on the physical properties of ASC such as slump, density, water absorption and permeable porosity. However, the slump of ASC decreases with an increase in fibre content. The B fibre has a better improvement in mechanical properties than the PP fibre and G fibre thanks to the better elastic modulus and tensile strength. When the Vf was 0.5%, the compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, flexural strength and modulus of elasticity of ASC reinforced with B fibre were increased by 16.7%, 29.1%, 29.2%, and 18.1%, respectively, compared to ASC without any fibres. The magnesium sulfate attack results showed that the incorporation of the B fibre decreased the mass loss and compressive strength of ASC exposed to a MgSO4 solution for 6 months because the fibre arrested the microcracks caused by the expansive stress. It is concluded that the mechanical properties of bio-based ASC and its resistance to magnesium sulfate attack can be significantly improved by incorporating 0.5% B fibre.
The effect of nitroglycerin on cardiac extrasystoles and heart rate variability in patients with ­stable angina pectoris class 1 and 2
Authors: Safronova E A , Kuzin A I , Kharlamova U V , Shamaeva T N , Ryabova L V 
Published: October 2020

Aim. To study the effect of nitroglycerin on the heart rate and its variability in patients with stable angina pectoris class 1 and 2.
Methods. 85 men with stable angina pectoris class 1 and 2 pathologies were examined between 2007 and 2012 in the City Clinical Hospital No. 8 of Chelyabinsk (mean age 53.15.66 years). In addition to common methods, a rhythmocardiographic study was performed, which allows you to calculate heart rate variability. An electrocardiogram was recorded simultaneously with the rhythmocardiogram.
Results. After sublingual nitroglycerin, the number of ventricular extrasystoles decreased in the background test and during Valsalva maneuver, increased in the Ashner's test and an exercise stress tests and did not change in the orthostatic test. An increase in supraventricular extrasystoles after nitroglycerin administration occurred in 10.6% of patients. Nitroglycerin administration resulted in a decrease in the inter-systolic intervals, an increased in the proportion of slow low-frequency waves statistically significant in the background and an exercise stress test. Spectral indicators of cardiac sympathetic modulation significantly increased in the Ashners test and decreased in the background test, while spectral indicators of cardiac parasympathetic modulation decreased in all samples except in exercise stress tests.
Conclusion. Under the influence of nitroglycerin, supraventricular arrhythmias increased in all vegetative tests except for orthostatic, the number/severity of ventricular extrasystoles ambiguously changed: decreased in Valsalva manoeuvre the background test, did not change in orthostatic and increased in Aschner's and an exercise stress tests; after nitroglycerin, the proportions of sympathetic influence (in Ashner's test) and slow low-frequency waves in the spectrum of the vegetative modulation increased with a decrease in parasympathetic.
Assessment of the effect of exogenous fibrin monomer on post-traumatic bleeding in hypofibrinogenemia caused by administration of snake venom Agkistrodon rhodostoma
Authors: Vdovin V M , Momot A P , Orekhov D A , Shakhmatov I I , Lycheva N A , Momot D A 
Published: October 2020

Aim. To assess the effect of fibrin monomer on the rate of blood loss after controlled liver injury in hypofibrinogenemia induced by systemic administration of Malayan pit viper venom (Agkistrodon rhodostoma).
Methods. A placebo-controlled study of the hemostatic effect of fibrin monomer administered intravenously at 0.25 mg/kg, and coagulation parameters in the controlled liver injury with profound hypofibrinogenemia caused by administration of Malayan pit viper venom was conducted in 34 male Chinchilla rabbits. The distribution of the studied parameters was investigated by the ShapiroWilk test. Statistical differences between groups were tested by Students t-test, MannWhitney U test, or Wilcoxon test, as appropriate. Differences in mortality rate were examined using Fisher's exact test.
Results. A model of experimental toxogenic disseminated intravascular coagulation was reproduced, manifested by high mortality of animals (50.0%), severe blood loss (increased blood loss by 1.78 times), hemolysis, a decreased platelet count (by 19.6% of median) and platelet dysfunction, fibrinogen consumption (protein content less than 0.9 g/l), hypocoagulation as well as intensive D-dimer production (increased concentration by 25.0 times of median). A high level of the fibrin derivative demonstrated activation of fibrin formation and fibrinolysis in the bloodstream of the animals. Systemic prophylactic administration of exogenous fibrin monomer after receiving snake venom did not lead to a decrease in post-traumatic bleeding, whereas earlier, during reproduction of disseminated intravascular coagulation caused by streptokinase infusion, such a hemostatic effect of fibrin monomer was shown.
Conclusion. The absence of fibrin monomer effect (at a dose of 0.25 mg/kg) on the severity of blood loss in toxogenic disseminated intravascular coagulation may be associated with more profound disseminated intravascular coagulation and a sharp 25-fold increase in D-dimer levels that can act as a fibrin monomer polymerization inhibitor.