bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Theory of Isotropic Transmission for Tendon-Driven Manipulators
Authors: Ou Yeong-Jeong , Tsai Lung-Wen 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
This paper deals with the synthesis of the mechanical power transmission structure in tendon-driven manipulators. Based on the analysis of static force transmission from the actuator space to the end-effector space, a general theory is developed for the synthesis of tendon-driven manipulators with isotropic transmission characteristics. It is shown that an n-dof (degree of freedom) manipulator can possess these characteristics if it is made up of n+1 or 2n tendons and if its link lengths and pulley sizes are designed according to two equations of constraint. Two examples are used to demonstrate the theory. It is also shown that manipulators with an isotropic transmission structure do have more uniform force distribution among their tendons.
Solution to the Forward and Inverse Kinematic Equations Using Multilayer Back-Propagation Neural Network
Authors: Nagarjuna Phani K. , Soni Athamaram H. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The problem of inverse kinematics in Robotics, is a nonlinear mapping from a given cartesian coordinates to the desirable joint coordinates of the robot arm. It is found that an appropriately designed neural network can be trained to learn the non-linearity of the Inverse Kinematic Equation (IKE). We present an approach for solving the Forward Kinematic Equation (FKE) and the IKE by means of a Multi Layer Back-Propagation Neural Network (Rumelhart et al., 1986). The neural network approach is applied to a Two Degrees-of-Freedom (DOF) robot manipulator and the results are compared with those obtained using the analytical solution. The results obtained from the simulation of the neural network indicate a fairly accurate learning of the FKE and IKE by the Multi Layer Back-Propagation Neural Network.
Design and Simulation of Flexible Palletizing Systems
Authors: Tanasi Germán C. , Shirkhodaie Amir H. , Soni Athamaram H. , Quo Philip 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The use of a simulation software in the study of a flexible automated material handling system such as a palletizing application constitutes a very useful tool for the field project engineer. FMCell provides a knowledgeable platform that allows the integrator to analyze diverse configurations in order to establish an optimum performance for the given requirements.
A feasibility study has been developed taking advantage of the features provided by this software. A typical scenario was selected, modeled and analyzed keeping always as an objective the flexibility and adaptability of the layout to diverse situations, such as variable type of loads and palletizing arrangements.
Development of an Autonomous Assembly Cell
Authors: Abu-Hamdan M. G. , El-Gizawy A. Sherif 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The problem of implementing intelligent control structure in real world flexible assembly environment is discussed and the development of a sensory-based system is described. The new system possesses the ability to deal with assembly process environment as an autonomous one. The use of an integrated sensory devices not only enhances the accuracy of the assembly operations by providing measurements and information feedback, but also makes the entire system more robust in the presence of uncertainties due to operational errors.
The Technology of Language and How Advances Will Affect Product Modeling and Design
Authors: Povilus David S. , Conrad Jerome C. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Design and CAE are being influenced by a number of business factors that heighten the importance of communication, and, thus, language. Among these factors are: globalization of product and component markets, electronic commerce via EDI, competitive demands for shortened development cycles, and increased accountability for design through the entire product life cycle. Engineering management reflects these business factors in such trends as: outsourcing of design work on a global basis, subcontracting of construction and/or manufacturing engineering, and simultaneous engineering across disciplines.
This paper explores the oncoming revolution in language technology from the viewpoint of its potential effects on CAE. Some brief introductory observations are made on the importance and current status of language as it relates to design. Next, the philosophical and practical language barriers to further progress in object-oriented CAE are laid out. Finally, an agenda is proposed whereby these barriers can be overcome. Progress for CAE will be driven by the information needs of the end users of engineering’s products. This progress will be fed by technology advances and economic forces external to engineering design, yet it will take the form of a metalanguage unique to the field. Reaching our future aspirations for CAE will require the encouragement and cooperation of the commercial, professional, and governmental sectors, because the creation of a new language is a complex and costly proposition.
<p class="Default"><strong>New taxonomic circumscription to <em>Chamaecrista</em> ser. <em>Setosae</em> (H.S. Irwin &amp; Barneby) H.S. Irwin &amp; Barneby (Leguminosae, Caesalpinioideae)</strong></p>
Authors: OLIVEIRA JAQUELINE APARECIDA DE , MENDES THAINARA POLICARPO , SOUZA ALESSANDRO OLIVEIRA DE , SILVA MARCOS JOSÉ DA 
Published: March 2021

This work presents a new circumscription and a taxonomic treatment for Chamaecrista ser. Setosae that resulted from previous phylogenetic studies and the analysis of ca. 350 collections, including typus, as well as the observation of populations in field. Nine species were recognized for the series, eight of which are endemic to Brazil, and one firstly recorded for the country (Ch. orenocensis). Are proposed the synonymizations of all varieties of Ch. setosa, the transfer of Ch. amphibola from the Setosae series to the ser. Ursinae and its consequent synonymization under Ch. exsudans, and the inclusion of Ch. multiseta from the Absoideae series to the ser. Setosae based on previous phylogenetic and morphological evidences. Species are contrasted in a key, with their updated typifications, represented through images and described and commented on their flowering and fruiting periods, their geographical distributions, including, maps, preferred environments and conservation status, morphological relationships, as well as illustrated by their diagnostic characters.
Recurrent contracted sockets treated with personalized, three-dimensionally printed conformers and buccal grafts
Authors: Groot ALW , Remmers Jelmer S , Kloos Roel JHM , Saeed Peerooz , Hartong Dyonne T 
Published: March 2021

Purpose: Recurrent contracted sockets are complex situations where previous surgeries have failed, disabling the wear of an ocular prosthesis. A combined method of surgery and long-term fixation using custom-made, three-dimensional (3D) printed conformers is evaluated. Methods: Retrospective case series of nine patients with recurrent excessive socket contraction and inability to wear a prosthesis, caused by chemical burns ( n = 3), fireworks ( n = 3), trauma ( n = 2) and enucleation and radiotherapy at childhood due to optic nerve glioma ( n = 1) with three average previous socket surgeries (range 2–6). Treatment consisted of a buccal mucosal graft and personalized 3D-printed conformer designed to be fixated to the periosteum and tarsal plates for minimal 2 months. Primary outcome was the retention of an ocular prosthesis. Secondary outcome was the need for additional surgeries. Results: Outcomes were measured at final follow-up between 7 and 36 months postoperatively (mean 20 months). Eight cases were able to wear an ocular prosthesis after 2 months. Three cases initially treated for only the upper or only the lower fornix needed subsequent surgery for the opposite fornix for functional reasons. Two cases had later surgery for cosmetic improvement of upper eyelid position. Despite pre-existing lid abnormalities (scar, entropion, lash deficiency), cosmetic outcome was judged highly acceptable in six cases because of symmetric contour and volume, and reasonably acceptable in the remaining two. Conclusions: Buccal mucosal transplant fixated with a personalized 3D-designed conformer enables retention of a well-fitted ocular prosthesis in previously failed socket surgeries. Initial treatment of both upper and lower fornices is recommended to avoid subsequent surgeries for functional reasons.
Resistance Training Does Not Decrease Placental Blood Flow During Valsalva Maneuver: A Novel Use of 3D Doppler Power Flow Ultrasonography
Authors: Gould Sara , Cawyer Chase , Dell’Italia Louis , Harper Lorie , McGwin Gerald , Bamman Marcas 
Published: March 2021

Background: The Valsalva maneuver may increase maternal blood pressure and intra-abdominal pressure, resulting in decreased blood flow to the fetus during resistance training. Hypothesis: There is no significant reduction in placental blood flow in pregnancy during resistance training in recreational athletes, as documented by a 3-dimensional power flow Doppler ultrasonography. Study Design: Cohort. Level of Evidence: Level 3. Methods: A cohort of healthy women who participated in recreational athletics was enrolled in a prospective study to assess placental blood flow during a resistance exercise. A 1 repetition maximum (1RM, up to 50 lb) was determined through a modified chest press as a marker of heavy resistance training. Three-dimensional volume measurements and power Doppler flow were determined at the rest phase and during the 1RM lift phase. The vascular flow index (VFI) was calculated to determine placental perfusion during each phase. Results: A total of 22 women participated. The mean age of participants was 31 years. Gestational age ranged from 13 to 28 weeks. Average 1RM weight lifted was 30 lb. Four women (18%) were able to lift 50 lb, the maximum weight that the study allowed. The remaining 18 women (82%) lifted their true 1RM. Mean VFI during lift phase was 2.185 compared with 2.071 at rest ( P = 0.03). There was a slight mean increase in VFI during lift phase, 0.114 (95% CI 0.009-0.182) from 2.071 to 2.185 with lifting ( P = 0.03). The 15 women who participated in structured exercise had a mean VFI at rest and during the lift phase of 2.031 and 2.203, respectively ( P = 0.01). Conclusion: Three-dimensional power flow Doppler imaging can guide resistance training during pregnancy to prevent fetal injury due to hypoperfusion. Resistance training up to an RM1 of 50 lb did not result in a significant reduction of placental blood flow from resting state in the study population. Clinical Relevance: This technique may be used to guide training parameters among pregnant athletes.
Maxillofacial Trauma and COVID-19: A Review of the First 6 Months of the Pandemic
Authors: Press Steven G. 
Published: March 2021

Study Design: Retrospective cohort study. Objective: The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) in late December 2019 has spread globally resulting in a pandemic of respiratory illness. The purpose of this study is to understand the impact of the first 6 months of the COVID-19 pandemic on the epidemiology of maxillofacial trauma at an urban trauma center. Methods: The study sample was derived from the population of patients who presented for evaluation and management of maxillofacial injuries at TriStar Skyline Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee beginning March 1, 2020 and ending August 31, 2020, compared to the same period in 2019. Descriptive and bivariate statistics were calculated for study variables in each cohort with significance set at P < .05. Results: The number of subjects in the 2020 cohort (n = 212) was 4.2% higher than the 2019 cohort (n = 203). Volume decreased 24.5% during the initial phase of the pandemic with a 36.1% increase in volume occurring during the reopening phase (P = .003). Volume related to interpersonal decreased 52.4% during the initial phase of the pandemic with a rebound increase of 30% during reopening (P = .005). Conclusion: The first case of COVID-19 presented in Nashville, Tennessee in early March 2020. Over the next 6 months, periods of lockdown and reopening transpired. The volume of maxillofacial trauma decreased during the initial 3-months of the pandemic and rebounded to volumes greater than the year prior.
Patients’ perspective on prostatic artery embolization: A qualitative study
Authors: Holm Alexander , Lindgren Hans , Bläckberg Mats , Augutis Marika , Jakobsson Peter , Tell Mattias , Wallinder Jonas , Lundström Karl-Johan , Styrke Johan 
Published: March 2021

Objectives: The aim was to describe the patients’ experience of undergoing prostatic artery embolization. Methods: A retrospective qualitative interview study was undertaken with 15 patients of mean age 73 years who had undergone prostatic artery embolization with a median duration of 210 min at two medium sized hospitals in Sweden. The reasons for conducting prostatic artery embolization were clean intermittent catheterization (n = 4), lower urinary tract symptoms (n = 10) or haematuria (n = 1). Data were collected through individual, semi-structured telephone interviews 1–12 months after treatment and analysed using qualitative content analysis. Results: Four categories with sub-categories were formulated to describe the results: a diverse experience; ability to control the situation; resumption of everyday activities and range of opinions regarding efficacy of outcomes. Overall, the patients described the procedure as painless, easy and interesting and reported that while the procedure can be stressful, a calm atmosphere contributed to achieving a good experience. Limitations on access to reliable information before, during and after the procedure were highlighted as a major issue. Practical ideas for improving patient comfort during the procedure were suggested. Improved communications between treatment staff and patients were also highlighted. Most patients could resume everyday activities, some felt tired and bruising caused unnecessary worry for a few. Regarding functional outcome, some patients described substantial improvement in urine flow while others were satisfied with regaining undisturbed night sleep. Those with less effect were considering transurethral resection of the prostate as a future option. Self-enrolment to the treatment and long median operation time may have influenced the results. Conclusions: From the patients’ perspective, prostatic artery embolization is a well-tolerated method for treating benign prostate hyperplacia.
Is the National Health Insurance Scheme helping pregnant women in accessing health services? Analysis of the 2014 Ghana demographic and Health survey
Authors: Ameyaw Edward Kwabena , Ahinkorah Bright Opoku , Baatiema Linus , Seidu Abdul-Aziz 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background
Increasing the use of healthcare is a significant step in improving health outcomes in both the short and long term. However, the degree of the relationship between utilization of health services and health outcomes is affected by the quality of the services rendered, the timeliness of treatment and follow-up care. In this study, we investigated whether the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) is helping pregnant women in accessing health services in Ghana.

Methods
Data for the study were obtained from the women’s file of the 2014 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey. All women with birth history and aged 15–49  constituted our sample (n = 4271). We employed binary logistic regression analysis in investigating whether the NHIS was helping pregnant women in accessing health service. Statistical significance was set at <0.05.

Results
Most women had subscribed to the NHIS [67.0%]. Of the subscribed women, 78.2% indicated that the NHIS is helping pregnant women in accessing healthcare. Women who had subscribed to the NHIS were more likely to report that it is helping pregnant women in accessing health service [aOR = 1.70, CI = 1.38–2.10]. We further noted that women who had at least four antenatal visits were more likely to indicate that NHIS is helping pregnant women in accessing health services [aOR = 3.01, CI = 2.20–4.14]. Women with secondary level of education [aOR= 1.42; CI: 1.04–1.92] and those in the richest wealth quintile [aOR = 3.51; CI = 1.94–6.34] had higher odds of indicating that NHIS is helping pregnant women in accessing healthcare. However, women aged 45–49 [aOR = 0.49; CI = 0.26–0.94], women in the Greater Accra [aOR = 0.29; CI = 0.16–0.53], Eastern [aOR = 0.12; CI = 0.07–0.21], Northern [aOR = 0.29; CI = 0.12–0.66] and Upper East [aOR = 0.17; CI = 0.09–0.31] regions had lower odds of reporting that NHIS is helping pregnant women in accessing health services.

Conclusion
To enhance positive perception towards the use of health services among pregnant women, non-subscribers need to be encouraged to enrol on the NHIS. Together with non-governmental organizations dedicated to maternal and child health issues, the Ghana Health Service’s Maternal and Child Health Unit could strengthen efforts to educate pregnant women on the importance of NHIS in maternity care.
A nomogram based on combining systemic and hepatic inflammation markers for predicting microscopic bile duct tumour thrombus in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wu Jun-Yi , Sun Ju-Xian , Wu Jia-Yi , Huang Xiao-Xiao , Bai Yan-Nan , Zeng Yong-Yi , Zhang Zhi-Bo , Cheng Shu-Qun , Yan Mao-Lin 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background
Bile duct invasion is a relatively rare event and is not well characterised in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It remains very difficult to diagnose HCC with bile duct tumour thrombus (BDTT) before surgery. Increasing evidence has revealed that inflammation plays a critical role in tumorigenesis. This study aimed to develop nomograms based on systemic and hepatic inflammation markers to predict microscopic BDTT (micro-BDTT) before surgery in HCC.

Methods
A total of 723 HCC patients who underwent hepatectomy as initial therapy between January 2012 and June 2020 were included in the study. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent risk factors for micro-BDTT. The nomograms were constructed using significant predictors, including α-fetoprotein (AFP), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), direct bilirubin (DB), prognostic nutritional index (PNI), and γ-glutamyl transferase (γ-GT)/alanine aminotransferase (ALT). The prediction accuracies of the nomograms were evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results
AFP, ALP, DB, PNI, and γ-GT/ALT were independent risk factors for predicting micro-BDTT (P = 0.036, P = 0.004, P = 0.013, P = 0.012, and P = 0.006, respectively), which were assembled into the nomograms. The area under the ROC curve of the nomograms combining PNI and γ-GT/ALT for predicting micro-BDTT was 0.804 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.730–0.878). The sensitivity and specificity values when used in predicting micro-BDTT before surgery were 0.739 (95% CI: 0.612–0.866) and 0.781 (95% CI: 0.750–0.813), respectively.

Conclusions
The nomogram based on combining systemic and hepatic inflammation markers is suitable for predicting micro-BDTT before surgery in HCC patients, leading to a rational therapeutic choice for HCC.
How body concerns, body mass, self-rated health and self-esteem are mutually impacted in early adolescence: a longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Meland Eivind , Breidablik Hans Johan , Thuen Frode , Samdal Gro Beate 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background
Impaired self-rated health (SRH) and self-esteem (SE) in adolescents are associated with increased body mass index (BMI). These associations are often studied using cross-sectional designs; we performed a longitudinal cohort survey to examine them.

Methods
A longitudinal cohort study of 1225 Norwegian high school students, with SRH, SE and BMI as primary outcomes. We reported the results from temporal causal and residual change analyses separately, with odds ratios (ORs) and standardised regression coefficients (b) and 95% confidence limits.

Results
Body and weight concerns had unfavourable effects on SRH and SE, which both had favourable effects on each other. Increased BMI had unfavourable effects on SRH, but less so on SE. Body and weight concerns impacted SE change only among girls. Paradoxically, the intention of becoming thinner was associated with an increase in BMI, and the intention of becoming fatter predicted a decrease in BMI during the 2 years. SE and SRH were associated with a leaner body after 2 years.

Conclusions
This study confirms that body concerns had unfavourable effects on subjective health, and that positive self-concepts predicted a leaner body. Health promotion strategies built on body acceptance should be increasingly emphasised in clinical and public health practice.
Pentosan polysulfate sodium for Ross River virus-induced arthralgia: a phase 2a, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study
Authors: Krishnan Ravi , Duiker Melanie , Rudd Penny A. , Skerrett Donna , Pollard James G. D. , Siddel Carolyn , Rifat Rifat , Ng Jennifer H. K. , Georgius Peter , Hererro Lara J. , Griffin Paul 
Published: March 2021

AbstractBackgroundAlphaviruses, such as Ross River (RRV) and chikungunya virus (CHIKV), cause significant global morbidity, with outbreaks of crippling joint inflammation and pain, leaving patients incapacitated for months to years. With no available vaccine or specific therapeutic for any alphaviral disease, and a growing economic and public health burden, there is a serious need for the development of specific therapies.MethodsThis study evaluated the safety and efficacy of pentosan polysulfate sodium (PPS) in subjects with RRV-induced arthralgia in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Twenty subjects were randomized 2:1 to subcutaneous PPS (2 mg/kg) or placebo (sodium chloride 0.9%) twice weekly for 6 weeks. Safety evaluation included physical examination, concomitant medications, and laboratory findings. Efficacy assessments included change from baseline in joint function (hand grip strength and RAPID3) and quality of life (SF-36) at Days 15, 29, 39 and 81 after treatment initiation. Inflammatory and cartilage degradation biomarkers were exploratory endpoints.ResultsPPS was well tolerated, with a similar proportion of subjects reporting at least one treatment-emergent adverse event (TEAE) in the treatment and placebo groups. Injection site reactions were the most common TEAE and occurred more frequently in the PPS group. Dominant hand grip strength and SF-36 scores improved with PPS at all time points assessed, with hand grip strength improvement of 6.99 kg (p = 0.0189) higher than placebo at Day 15. PPS showed significant improvements versus placebo in adjusted mean relative change from baseline for RAPID3 Pain (p = 0.0197) and Total (p = 0.0101) scores at Day 15. At the conclusion of the study overall joint symptoms, assessed by RAPID3, showed near remission in 61.5% of PPS subjects versus 14.3% of placebo subjects. Additionally, PPS treatment improved COMP, CTX-II, CCL1, CXCL12, CXCL16 and CCL17 biomarker levels versus placebo.ConclusionsOverall, the improvements in strength and joint symptoms warrant further evaluation of PPS as a specific treatment for RRV-induced and other forms of arthritis.Trial registrationThis trial is registered at the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry #ACTRN12617000893303.