bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphological evaluation of the risk of posterior communicating artery aneurysm rupture: a mirror aneurysm model
Authors: Xu Wei-Dong , Chen Ru-Dong , Hu Sheng-Qi , Hou Yu-Yang , Yu Jia-Sheng
Published: July 2022

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to use morphological parameters of mirror posterior communicating artery (PCoA) aneurysms to evaluate aneurysm rupture risk.

METHODS

The morphological parameters of 45 pairs of ruptured mirror PCoA aneurysms were analyzed. Conditional univariate and multivariate logistic regression of the following paired morphological parameters was performed: aneurysm with a daughter sac, aneurysm height, aneurysm width, neck width, internal carotid artery diameter, PCoA diameter, flow angle, PCoA angle, aspect ratio, bottleneck factor, size ratio, height/width ratio, fetal posterior cerebral artery, and aneurysm with height > width. A scoring system was established according to the odds ratios (ORs). The receiver operating characteristic was used to test the prediction accuracy of this scoring system in the authors’ database of 523 PCoA aneurysms and the threshold value was used to define higher risk.

RESULTS

Aneurysm width (OR 1.676, p = 0.014), aneurysm with daughter sac (OR 7.775, p = 0.016), and aneurysm with height > width (OR 9.067, p = 0.012) were independent risk factors for rupture. The scoring system consisted of aneurysm width (1 point per mm), aneurysm with a daughter sac (5 points), and aneurysm with height > width (5 points). The area under the curve (AUC) of the scoring system was 0.842, and its threshold value was 7.97. A score ≥ 8 points was defined as higher risk. The AUC using this definition was 0.802.

CONCLUSIONS

Aneurysm width, aneurysms with height > width, and aneurysms with a daughter sac were independent risk factors for PCoA aneurysm rupture. The scoring system devised in this study accurately predicts rupture risk.
Breaking boundaries through Doctors Reaching Minority Men Exploring Neuroscience: a mentorship model to foster a pipeline for underrepresented minorities
Authors: McNeill Ian T. , Carrasquilla Alejandro , Asfaw Zerubabbel K. , Barthélemy Ernest J. , Mehr Alyson , Townsend Kenya D. , Joseph Alexander , Bederson Joshua B. , Butts Gary C. , Germano Isabelle M.
Published: July 2022

OBJECTIVE

In 2015, the Association of American Medical Colleges report titled "Altering the Course: Black Males in Medicine" showed a decline in the number of Black men matriculating into medical school. To alter this trend, the authors’ hypothesis was that formally exposing Black men to the clinical neurosciences during high school would enhance their chances of entering the physician workforce. For this reason, in 2007, the Doctors Reaching Minority Men Exploring Neuroscience (DR. MMEN) program was established at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. The program aimed to provide early exposure, mentorship, and inspiration to high school–age Black and Latinx men. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the DR. MMEN program in the context of the recent race and ethnicity trends among medical school matriculants (MSMs).

METHODS

Association of American Medical Colleges data on MSMs stratified by race and ethnicity were reviewed for the period between 2015 and 2020. Data pertinent to the academic achievements of DR. MMEN participants, such as matriculation to college and/or medical school, were prospectively tracked and incorporated with mixed-methods exit assessment data. Qualitative responses were coded and analyzed using a thematic concept analysis method.

RESULTS

Over the study period, the increase of MSMs in the US was 1.0% and 1.7% for Black and Latinx individuals, respectively. Changes for the male MSM cohort were negligible: 0.3% for Black and 0.7% for Latinx. With respect to DR. MMEN, 42% of participants from 2017 to 2019 earned college scholarships, and 25% of students from the 2017–2018 cohort matriculated to a combined college–medical program. Survey data showed that 100% of DR. MMEN participants found the program useful. Analysis of qualitative data revealed that participants considered pursuing a career in neurosurgery or in another medical field. Diligence and a passion for medicine were identified as the top two most important lessons in the program, and witnessing patient satisfaction and observing a neurosurgery operation were described as the most important experiences. Participants considered availability to give advice and feedback and a passion for teaching as the principal attributes of their mentors.

CONCLUSIONS

Over the past 6 years, the slight increase in Black and Latinx MSMs has not been significant enough to remedy ethnoracial disparities among MSMs. In particular, Black male matriculation to medical school has remained stagnant. The DR. MMEN program is a promising model to inspire young scholars and improve diversity within neuroscience and medicine at large.
Zryczałtowany podatek dochodowy od przychodów osób duchownych po wprowadzeniu „Polskiego Ładu”: uwagi do ustawy z dnia 9 czerwca 2022 r. o zmianie ustawy o podatku dochodowym od osób fizycznych oraz niektórych innych ustaw
Authors: Stanisz Piotr , Walencik Dariusz
Published: July 2022

Niniejsza opinia dotyczy ustawy z dnia 9 czerwca 2022 r. o zmianie ustawy o podatku dochodowym od osób fizycznych oraz niektórych innych ustaw. Jednym z celów tej nowelizacji jest rozszerzenie kręgu podatników, dla których zmiany zainicjowane ustawą z dnia 29 października 2021 r. będą korzystne lub neutralne. Zamierzenie projektodawców zasługuje bez wątpienia na pozytywną ocenę. Poza zakresem podmiotów, w przypadku których złagodzono likwidację możliwości odliczenia 7,75% składki na ubezpieczenie zdrowotne od płaconego podatku, nadal pozostawieni są jednak podatnicy opłacający zryczałtowany podatek dochodowy od przychodów osób duchownych. Jak wykazują autorzy, rozwiązanie to pozostaje w sprzeczności z zasadą równości, a tym samym z zasadą sprawiedliwości podatkowej. W związku z tym postuluje się przyjęcie przepisów, których celem byłoby naprawienie krytykowanego stanu rzeczy.
Antioxidant, Cytotoxic, Antidiabetic and Phytochemical Investigation of Root Extracts of Tecoma stans (Bignoniaceae)
Authors: Shahzad Atif , Afzal Samina , Ahmad Imran
Published: July 2022

Introduction: The plants are an alternative source for the management of a number of human disorders due to the presence of biologically active constituents Aims: Current study aims to investigate underexplored therapeutic potentials of roots of Tecoma stans through phytochemical and biological assays. Methods: The dried roots were extracted successively with methanol and dichloromethane by simple maceration and labeled with codes TSM and TSD respectively. Results: The phytochemical investigation revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, terpenoids, tannins, andphenols in the extracts. TSM fraction revealed the highest total phenolic, flavonoid and alkaloid contents159.79 mg GAE/g, 65.38to 13.04 mg QE/g and95.2 to 56.61 mg AT/g of extract respectively. As compared to TSD extract, TSM extract showed significant antioxidant activity using two models DPPH (79.8 %) and ABTS (71.06 %). Cytotoxic activity of methanol extracts against PC3 and HeLa cancer cell line exhibited 61.23% (IC50 22.89 µg/mL) and 74.03 % (17.78 µg/mL) inhibition of cancer cells respectively at concentration of 30 µg/mL. Extracts revealed antidiabetic activity through α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition with maximum inhibition 63.26% and 75.66% respectively was detected at the concentration of 1000 mg / mL by TSM extract. Conclusion: Methanolic extracts of roots of Tecoma stanscontainshigher amount plant secondary metabolites and revealed antioxidant, cytotoxic and α-amylase as well as α- glucosidase inhibition activities.
Inflammatory Markers as Predictors of Severity and Mortality in Coronavirus Disease: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Jatoi Saima , Adnan Bawany Muhammad , Maheshwari Sunil Dat , Akbar Memon Muhammad , Qureshi Sheeza Saleem , Qureshi Hasham Masood
Published: July 2022

Introduction: COVID-19 is a pandemic that demands swift, in-depth, and well-grounded research work. WHO (World Health Organization) has declared around 1 million deaths and confirmed about 35 million cases worldwide. Aim: To predict the role of three inflammatory markers (serum ferritin, C-reactive protein and lactate dehydrogenase) in severity and mortality in patients with corona virus disease patients admitted in the hospital. Methodology: Patients with traceable SARS-CoV-2 by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were inducted into this study by simple random sampling. Patients with potential radiological scans but without positive SARS were not included in this study. The nasopharyngeal sample technique was used to check the presence of the virus. This viral load’s severity was checked via World Health Organization recommendations. All the information including the sociodemographic data, severity of disease and laboratory values of three inflammatory markers gathered on a semi structured proforma designed for the study. Study Design: A Cross-Sectional study. Place and Duration: Isra University Hospital from 1st June 2021 to 31st December 2021. Results: A 240 patients were included in the study; aged between 20 and 60 years. The values of the three inflammatory markers were found raised in the group of patients being studied (more frequently within the moderate and severe disease groups). C - reactive protein was raised in 122 patients, ferritin was raised in 83 patients and Lactate dehydrogenase was raised in 184 patients Conclusion: Measuring the values of CRP, LDH, and Ferritin at admission can be a reliable predictor of severity and mortality in SARs-CoV-2. Out of the three, ferritin is the best indicator and should be considered essential.
Anti-diabetic Effect of Ethanolic Extracts of Cissus Quadrangularis linn Fruits and Michelia Champaea Leaves in Alloxan Induced Hyperglycaemic Rats and in 3T3L1 Cell Lines
Authors: Deepthi Jasti , Bhikshapathi D. V. R. N
Published: July 2022

Background: Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that results in increased blood sugar. This study came up with a search for alternative medicines with no or fewer side effects for antidiabetic therapy. Materials and methods: The plants are extracted and screened for phytochemical study of crude extracts. Anti-diabetic activity in alloxan induced hyperglycaemic rats, in single dose study, multiple dose treatment was investigated. In vitro cellular assay using 3T3L1 cell line was performed to check the cell viability with increasing plant extract treatment. Results: Phytochemical investigation reveals the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, steroids, triterpinoids, carbohydrates, and glycosides in both plant extractions. In acute toxicity studies, no mortality was observed with either of the extracts even at a dosage of the level of 5000 mg per kg of body weight. The ethanolic extracts showed a noteworthy decline in blood glucose level in alloxan induced rats in both single and multiple dosage methods. Significant changes were observed in the serum glucose and body weight from day 0 to day 14. The cell viability of the extracts was also comparable with the standard. Conclusion: Our results report that CQ fruits and MC leaves have potent antidiabetic action and on further studies, can be a credible resource in antidiabetic therapy.
Актуальні напрями досліджень фахової підготовки спеціалістів туристичної галузі
Authors: Петрова А. А.
Published: July 2022

У статті розглянуто контент-аналіз сучасних напрямів наукових досліджень (наукові дисертації та фахові статті) в галузі професійної підготовки фахівців сфери обслуговування туристичного спрямування з метою виявлення вже досліджених проблем та спрямування дослідницького потенціалу на вирішення актуальних питань сьогодення
Використання техногенних ландшафтів під час організації активного відпочинку і спорту в Кривому Розі
Authors: Петрова А. А.
Published: July 2022

У статті розглянуто природні та техногенні об’єкти геотуризму Кривого Рогу. Досвід використання промислових ландшафтів для організації трейлових забігів та велозмагань, що сприяють сталому розвитку внутрішнього промислового туризму. Закцентовано увагу на альтернативних видах туризму в промисловому місті та ефективному використанні унікального потенціалу промислових зон міста.
Spatial Mapping of Landslide Susceptibility Level in Pacitan District Using Analytical Hierarchy Process and Natural Break
Authors: Fariza Arna , Basofi Arif , Hamida Silfiana Nur
Published: July 2022

Pacitan district has a high potential for landslides. Landslide is a hydrometeorological disaster that causes loss of life, property loss, and environmental damage. Disaster preparedness is very necessary for the wider community in dealing with landslide emergency response situations. Applications to determine the level of vulnerability to landslides are very useful to minimize the impact and losses on the Pacitan community. This study aims to make an application for assessing the level of landslide susceptibility using the analytical hierarchy process and natural break based on the factors that cause landslides in the sub-district or village of Pacitan district. The factors that cause landslides in Pacitan district consist of weather, history of landslides, land slope, and history of earthquakes. The results of the AHP and natural break classifications are visualized in the form of a spatial map into 3 categories, namely high, medium and low vulnerability levels. The results of the AHP classification and natural break in the 2016-2020 data have a good average GVF value of 0.77. This shows that in general, the results of the 2016-2020 data classification are correct. Mobile device-based applications provide convenience for the public in accessing information as an effort to improve landslide disaster preparedness.
Blood amino acid dynamics after ingestion of chicken-derived peptides in healthy subjects
Authors: Guo Hang , Yamamura Akihiro , Sato Mikako
Published: July 2022

Background: The rate of protein digestion and amino acid (AA) absorption determines the postprandial rise in circulating AA and modulates postprandial muscle protein synthesis (MPS) rates. Furthermore, it is necessary to consider the timing of protein ingestion, along with its quantity and quality, to regulate the blood AA concentration. Chicken breasts are a popular food among athletes as they are a good source of animal protein, containing sufficient essential amino acids (EAAs) and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs). Low-molecular-weight chicken peptides (Cpep), a novel protein supplement, were isolated from chicken breasts. Blood AA dynamics, which have a significant influence on MPS rates, were observed and compared with commercially available whey- and soy-derived protein supplements.Objectives: We evaluated blood AA dynamics after Cpep intake compared with whey protein (WP), and soy protein (SP).Methods: Three groups of six healthy adult men volunteers (age 39 ± 10 years) ingested 0.3 g/kg (protein/body weight) of Cpep, WP, and SP. The concentrations of AA in the plasma were measured before and after the ingestion period and their kinetics were compared.Results: Cpep comprises free amino acids or peptides, and their average molecular weights are lower than those of WP and SP. The absorption dynamics of AA in the plasma were evaluated. After Cpep intake, EAA and BCAA concentrations peaked at 30 min and levels of EAA and BCAA were higher than those after WP and SP ingestion at 15 and 30 min, respectively. Conversely, the levels of total AA, EAA, and BCAA decreased 45 min after Cpep intake compared with WP and SP intakes. In contrast, WP and SP showed similar blood AA dynamics with a peak at 60 min.Conclusions: Cpep is absorbed significantly faster than WP and SP, making it a useful option for efficient protein intake to maintain and increase muscle mass.Keywords: chicken-derived peptides, blood amino acid dynamics, branched-chain amino acid, muscle protein synthesis
Binationale Herkunft und Zugehörigkeit
Authors: Gilliéron Gwendolyn
Published: July 2022

Die Autorin untersucht, wie junge Erwachsene binationaler Herkunft in Marokko und der Schweiz immer wieder ein subjektives Gleichgewicht herstellen zwischen nationalen Zugehörigkeitsdiskursen, sozialen Ein- und Ausschlussprozessen und eigenen adoleszenten Individuationsbedürfnissen. Anhand autobiographisch-narrativer Interviews mit jungen Erwachsenen in den beiden Ländern und mit Rückgriff auf die Stigma-Theorie von Erving Goffman wird aufgezeigt, dass eine binationale Herkunft nicht so sehr für die jungen Erwachsenen selbst eine Irritation darstellt, sondern vielmehr durch die Gesellschaft problematisiert und zu einer Herausforderung wird.
Coagulation and hemorheology profile of patient with stroke and COVID-19: A case series during second wave pandemic
Authors: Rasyid Al , Timan Ina Susianti , Riyanto Dinda Larastika , Harris Salim , Kurniawan Mohammad , Mesiano Taufik , Hidayat Rakhmad , Wiyarta Elvan
Published: July 2022

In 2021 the delta variant was discovered, heralding the start of the second pandemic wave. This case series aims to analyse and compare the coagulation and hemorheology profiles of COVID-19 patients diagnosed with acute stroke during the pandemic’s second wave and ascertain the effect on patient outcomes. This case series reports 4 cases with their respective characteristics. Case 1 reports on COVID-19 patients without comorbidities, Case 2 with comorbidities, Case 3 with strokes in young patients, and Case 4 with strokes in elderly patients. All cases had abnormal coagulation and hemorheology factors with mixed outcomes. Coagulation and hemorheology factors tend to be higher in COVID-19 patients with acute stroke. The value of coagulation and hemorheology factors can be a prognostic outcome in COVID-19 patients with severe disease, especially in patients associated with acute stroke.
Business models as scientific models: The question of perspective?
Authors: Trnavčević Anita , Biloslavo Roberto , Bertoncel Tine , Bagnoli Carlo , Janeš Aleksander , McKenna Bernard , Bulut Çağri
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND: In the last 15 years, theoretical discussions, and empirical research on the domain of business models have grown significantly. Different authors understand and focus on either constituencies of business models or narratives. The question remains what the predictive value of business model is. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this interdisciplinary conceptual paper is to investigate and discuss business models as scientific models. METHODS: This article is conceptual, although previous studies on business models enrich this discussion. RESULTS: A narrative perspective on business models shows that they also have a predictive value that is expressed through language not in numbers, maps, and diagrams. The process of reflexivity that is contextualised and bounded in the form of a narrative lies at the centre of designing and changing the business model. The article provides substantial discussion on business models as scientific models, and their predictive power. These concepts have not been deeply discussed yet. CONCLUSIONS: An argument is provided to support the proposition that business models can be considered as scientific models that is, however, embedded in specific organizational, cultural, and technological contexts. Future research needs to be directed towards the empirical analysis of narratives in companies.
Separated and coupled effects of illumination, accumulated noise and task complexity on cognitive-motor performance dynamics
Authors: Sumpor Davor , Ćelić Matea , Žebec Mislav Stjepan
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND: Inconsistent findings on coupled illumination, accumulated noise and task complexity effects on cognitive-motor performance asked for a more comprehensive analysis by focusing on performance dynamics. OBJECTIVE: The aim was to investigate the effects of illumination, accumulated noise, and task complexity on several average and non-average temporal indicators. METHODS: The research was designed as a mixed factorial quasi-experiment including 83 students of transport (n = 42) and psychology (n = 41) at the University of Zagreb. Participants were assigned to designated experimental conditions defined by illumination (40, 280, 3400 lx), and accumulated noise (0% and 50% of the daily exposure limit) levels and all performed 2- and 8-choice reaction time tests. RESULTS: The findings showed negative effects of accumulated noise and task complexity on all performance indicators, while the effect of illumination reached significance only for maximal speed. Significant Illumination x Task complexity and Illumination x Accumulated noise effects were obtained for average efficiency, while significant Accumulated noise x Task complexity effect was observed for average efficiency and maximal speed. CONCLUSIONS: Various indicators of performance dynamics were diversely affected by external factors, thereby suggesting the effects’ mechanisms, and accentuating different guidelines for design of workplaces that include these environmental stressors.
Visually Identified Tau 18F-MK6240 PET Patterns in Symptomatic Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Krishnadas Natasha , Huang Kun , Schultz Stephanie A. , Doré Vincent , Bourgeat Pierrick , Goh Anita M.Y. , Lamb Fiona , Bozinovski Svetlana , Burnham Samantha C. , Robertson Joanne S. , Laws Simon M. , Maruff Paul , Masters Colin L. , Villemagne Victor L. , Rowe Christopher C.
Published: July 2022

Background:

In Alzheimer’s disease, heterogeneity has been observed in the postmortem distribution of tau neurofibrillary tangles. Visualizing the topography of tau in vivo may facilitate clinical trials and clinical practice.

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate whether tau distribution patterns that are limited to mesial temporal lobe (MTL)/limbic regions, and those that spare MTL regions, can be visually identified using 18F-MK6240, and whether these patterns are associated with different demographic and cognitive profiles.

Methods:

Tau 18F-MK6240 PET images of 151 amyloid-β positive participants with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia were visually rated as: tau negative, limbic predominant (LP), MTL-sparing, and Typical by two readers. Groups were evaluated for differences in age, APOE ɛ4 carriage, hippocampal volumes, and cognition (MMSE, composite memory and non-memory scores). Voxel-wise contrasts were also performed.

Results:

Visual rating resulted in 59.6% classified as Typical, 17.9% as MTL-sparing, 9.9% LP, and 12.6% as tau negative. Intra-rater and inter-rater reliability was strong (Cohen’s kappa values of 0.89 and 0.86 respectively). Tracer retention in a “hook”-like distribution on sagittal sequences was observed in the LP and Typical groups. The visually classified MTL-sparing group had lower APOE ɛ4 carriage and relatively preserved hippocampal volumes. Higher MTL tau was associated with greater amnestic cognitive impairment. High cortical tau was associated with greater impairments on non-memory domains of cognition, and individuals with high cortical tau were more likely to have dementia than MCI.

Conclusion:

Tau distribution patterns can be visually identified using 18F-MK6240 PET and are associated with differences in APOE ɛ4 carriage, hippocampal volumes, and cognition.
Combinational Drug Repurposing from Genetic Networks Applied to Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Nabirotchkin Serguei , Bouaziz Jan , Glibert Fabrice , Mandel Jonas , Foucquier Julie , Hajj Rodolphe , Callizot Noëlle , Cholet Nathalie , Guedj Mickaël , Cohen Daniel
Published: July 2022

Background:

Human diseases are multi-factorial biological phenomena resulting from perturbations of numerous functional networks. The complex nature of human diseases explains frequently observed marginal or transitory efficacy of mono-therapeutic interventions. For this reason, combination therapy is being increasingly evaluated as a biologically plausible strategy for reversing disease state, fostering the development of dedicated methodological and experimental approaches. In parallel, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) provide a prominent opportunity for disclosing human-specific therapeutic targets and rational drug repurposing.

Objective:

In this context, our objective was to elaborate an integrated computational platform to accelerate discovery and experimental validation of synergistic combinations of repurposed drugs for treatment of common human diseases.

Methods:

The proposed approach combines adapted statistical analysis of GWAS data, pathway-based functional annotation of genetic findings using gene set enrichment technique, computational reconstruction of signaling networks enriched in disease-associated genes, selection of candidate repurposed drugs and proof-of-concept combinational experimental screening.

Results:

It enables robust identification of signaling pathways enriched in disease susceptibility loci. Therapeutic targeting of the disease-associated signaling networks provides a reliable way for rational drug repurposing and rapid development of synergistic drug combinations for common human diseases.

Conclusion:

Here we demonstrate the feasibility and efficacy of the proposed approach with an experiment application to Alzheimer’s disease.
The Effects of Normal Aging, Subjective Cognitive Decline, Mild Cognitive Impairment, or Alzheimer’s Disease on Visual Search
Authors: Xue Chuanwei , Tang Yi , Wang Changming , Yang Haibo , Li Liang
Published: July 2022

Background:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has been confirmed as an influencing factor of visual impairment, but potential concomitant effects on visual and cognitive performance are not well understood.

Objective:

To provide a new method for early screening of Alzheimer’s disease and further explore the theoretical mechanism of the decline of whole visual and cognitive performance in AD.

Methods:

We studied 60 individuals without dementia as normal control (NC), 74 individuals with subjective cognitive decline (SCD), 60 individuals with amnesia mild cognitive impairment (aMCI), and 75 patients with AD on a battery of tests designed to measure multiple aspects of basic and higher-order visual perception and cognition. All subjects performed on same visual and cognitive test batteries.

Results:

The results showed both of four groups, with the stimulus-presentation time being longer, the visual-search performance improved, and both the eye interest-area first fixation duration and the interest-area-fixation count increased. Particularly under the noise-masking condition, the AD group performed the worst at stimulus-presentation times between 300 and 900 ms. The aMCI group, but not the SCD group, performed worse than the NC group at the stimulus-presentation time of either 300 or 500 ms. The interest-area-fixation count was higher in all the patient groups than that in the NC group, and distinguishable between participants with AD and those with SCD or aMCI.

Conclusion:

The visual-search performance combined with eye-movement tracking under the noise-masking condition can be used for distinguishing AD from normal aging, SCD, and aMCI.
Modelling of wastewater treatment, microalgae growth and harvesting by flocculation inside photo bioreactor using machine learning technique
Authors: Pavendan K. , Nagarajan V.
Published: July 2022

Biological wastewater treatment with the use of algae-bacteria consortia for the uptake of nutrient and recovery of resource is considered as the ‘paradigm shift’ from the process of mainstream wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) so as to mitigate the pollution and thus promoting the circular economy. In this regard, the application of machine learning algorithms (MLAs) was found to be effectual and beneficial for the prediction of uncertain performances in the process of treatment and it shows a satisfactory result for the effective optimization, monitoring, uncertainty prediction and so on in the environment systems. The proposed approach aims at modelling the treatment of wastewater, growth of micro algae and flocculation harvesting at the photobioreactor (PBR) along with the utilization of machine learning techniques. Initially, the raw data from the PBR was taken and is pre-processed using z-score normalization technique followed by extraction and selection of features that are more appropriate. The Adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) model is built along with the modified Fuzzy C-Means algorithm (MFCM) so as to cluster the huge amount of data. ANFIS is employed for the estimation of controller output parameters and for controlling the temperature inside the reactor. The output controller parameter performance can be enhanced by the use of optimization approach. The discrete Multilayer perceptron (DMLP) with the hyper tuning parameters of Iterative Levi’s Flight Dependent Cuckoo search optimization algorithm (ILF-CSO) is employed for the prediction purpose of attained cultivation growth rate and the pH of treated wastewater. The optimization technique based on machine learning model in turn offers the best possible solution needed for the estimation of output parameters. Thus, the removal rate of effluent T-N concentrations from the wastewater treatment is predicted with some intervals of day. At last, the performance is estimated in terms of growth rate, temperature variations, biomass, nitrate and phosphate concentrations, and error rates (RMSE, APE), and determination coefficient (R2). The attained outcome shows that the presented model is effectual and has the potential to apply for controlling and predicting the biological wastewater treatment plants.
Res2Net with spectral-spatial and channel attention for hyperspectral image classification
Authors: Xu Qin , Xu Shumeng , Wang Dongyue , Yang Chao , Liu Jinpei , Luo Bin
Published: July 2022

Representing features at multiple scales is of great significance for hyperspectral image classification. However, the most existing methods improve the feature representation ability by extracting features with different resolutions. Moreover, the existing attention methods have not taken full advantage of the HSI data, and their receptive field sizes of artificial neurons in each layer are identical, while in neuroscience, the receptive field sizes of visual cortical neurons adapt to the neural stimulation. Therefore, in this paper, we propose a Res2Net with spectral-spatial and channel attention (SSCAR2N) for hyperspectral image classification. To effectively extract multi-scale features of HSI image at a more granular level while ensuring a small amount of calculation and low parameter redundancy, the Res2Net block is adopted. To further recalibrate the features from spectral, spatial and channel dimensions simultaneously, we propose a visual threefold (spectral, spatial and channel) attention mechanism, where a dynamic neuron selection mechanism that allows each neuron to adaptively adjust the size of its receptive fields based on the multiple scales of the input information is designed. The comparison experiments on three benchmark hyperspectral image data sets demonstrate that the proposed SSCAR2N outperforms several state-of-the-art deep learning based HSI classification methods.
The Role of Monoaminergic Tones and Brain Metabolism in Cognition in De Novo Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Orso Beatrice , Arnaldi Dario , Peira Enrico , Famá Francesco , Giorgetti Laura , Girtler Nicola , Brugnolo Andrea , Mattioli Pietro , Biassoni Erica , Donniaquio Andrea , Massa Federico , Bauckneht Matteo , Miceli Alberto , Morbelli Silvia , Nobili Flavio , Pardini Matteo
Published: July 2022

Background: Cognitive impairment is frequent in Parkinson’s disease (PD) and several neurotransmitter changes have been reported since the time of diagnosis, although seldom investigated altogether in the same patient cohort. Objective: Our aim was to evaluate the association between neurotransmitter impairment, brain metabolism, and cognition in a cohort of de novo, drug-naïve PD patients. Methods: We retrospectively selected 95 consecutive drug-naïve PD patients (mean age 71.89±7.53) undergoing at the time of diagnosis a brain [18F]FDG-PET as a marker of brain glucose metabolism and proxy measure of neurodegeneration, [123I]FP-CIT-SPECT as a marker and dopaminergic deafferentation in the striatum and frontal cortex, as well as a marker of serotonergic deafferentation in the thalamus, and quantitative electroencephalography (qEEG) as an indirect measure of cholinergic deafferentation. Patients also underwent a complete neuropsychological battery. Results: Positive correlations were observed between (i) executive functions and left cerebellar cortex metabolism, (ii) prefrontal dopaminergic tone and working memory (r = 0.304, p = 0.003), (iii) qEEG slowing in the posterior leads and both memory (r = 0.299, p = 0.004) and visuo-spatial functions (r = 0.357, p < 0.001). Conclusions: In subjects with PD, the impact of regional metabolism and diffuse projection systems degeneration differs across cognitive domains. These findings suggest possible tailored approaches to the treatment of cognitive deficits in PD.
Impact of an intensive lifestyle program on low attenuation plaque and myocardial perfusion in coronary heart disease: A randomised clinical trial protocol
Authors: Cassidy Sophie , Kroeger Cynthia M. , Wang Tian , Mitra Sayan , Liu Chen , Ribeiro Rosilene V. , Dai Aimee , Lau Jonathan , Huang Robin , Masedunkas Andrius , Jose Shane , Liu Na , Avery Leah , Yang Jessica , McGrady Michele , Lo Serigne N. , George Jacob , Cistulli Peter A. , Khor Lynn , Kozor Rebecca , Ugander Martin , Wilcox Ian , Hunyor Imre , Fontana Luigi
Published: July 2022

IMPORTANCE:

The evidence that maintaining a healthy body weight in conjunction with healthier eating patterns, exercise training, and reduced stress can improve clinical outcomes in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is substantial. However, little is known about the magnitude and temporal effects of a comprehensive lifestyle treatment on coronary artery anatomy, myocardial inflammation, and fibrosis in people affected by coronary heart disease.

OBJECTIVE:

To conduct a randomised clinical trial to determine the impact of a 12-month intense lifestyle intervention delivered via an mHealth platform (in the form of a mobile App) versus standard clinical care on low attenuation plaque volume and structure, stress myocardial perfusion, and diastolic function.

DESIGN:

A single centre, parallel-group, randomised controlled trial. The co-primary endpoints are: 1-Low Attenuation Plaque (LAP) volume (mm3) using coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) at 12 months, and 2-Adenosine stress myocardial blood flow (stress MBF, mL/min/g) using cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at 12 months. Other key measurements include liver steatosis by MRI, subclinical abnormalities detected by advanced electrocardiography, arterial stiffness, endothelial function, genomic, metabolomic, and gut microbiome-related adaptations to these structural changes. An intention-to-treat principle will be used for all analyses.

SETTING:

Participants will be recruited from a large academic cardiology office practice (Central Sydney Cardiology) and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (RPAH) Departments of Cardiology and Radiology. All clinical investigations will be undertaken within the Charles Perkins Centre-RPAH clinic.

PARTICIPANTS:

Individuals ( n = 150) with stable coronary heart disease who have low attenuation plaque based on a CCTA within the past 3 months, will be randomised to a lifestyle intervention program comprising a 5:2 pesco-vegetarian diet, exercise training, and mindfulness-based stress reduction ( n = 75) or usual care ( n = 75).

DISCUSSION:

This trial will represent the single most detailed and integrated analysis of the effects of a comprehensive lifestyle intervention targeting multiple metabolic pathways, delivered via a customized mHealth App on smart devices, on coronary macro- and microcirculation, heart physiology, and cardiometabolic risk. It will provide a new framework for allowing clinicians and individuals to optimise metabolic health for the prevention and management of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases that is epidemic in modern society.
POSSIBILITIES OF PROLONGED BLOOD PRESSURE MONITORING IN ASSESSMENT OF THE EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF COMBINED ANTIHYPERTENSIVE THERAPY IN EMERGENCY CARE
Authors: Ruksin V. V. , Grishin O. V. , Kitsyshin V. P. , Lukyanova I. Yu.
Published: July 2022

Introduction. At the stage of emergency medical care, the time of observation of a patient receiving antihypertensive therapy is limited to the time of stay of the emergency medical service team with this patient. Therefore, assessing the efficacy and safety of prescribing a particular antihypertensive treatment pattern is a relevant task.
Patients and Methods. In this study, we used three two-component combinations of antihypertensive drugs (captopril and furosemide, moxonidine and furosemide, moxonidine and nifedipine) and prolonged blood pressure monitoring. We included 105 patients with a history of primary arterial hypertension who called an ambulance because of an increase in blood pressure and signed a voluntary informed consent. Evaluation of the results of prolonged blood pressure monitoring was carried out in 91 patients. The comorbidity, the clinical condition of the patient, blood pressure monitoring parameters, the efficacy and safety of antihypertensive therapy at the prehospital stage were evaluated.
Results. The most pronounced and somewhat excessive hypotensive effect developed when using a combination of moxonidine with nifedipine. The index of excessive decrease in blood pressure below 120/70 mm Hg in this group was 51.6% (p<0.05), as compared to the combinations of captopril with furosemide and moxonidine with furosemide (10.3% and 7.8%, respectively).
Conclusion. The use of blood pressure monitoring in patients with a clinically significant increase in blood pressure on prehospital stage allows us to assess the dynamics of blood pressure, the effectiveness and safety of prescribing various combinations of antihypertensive drugs.
Melatih Bermain Peran Berdagang Dan Berbelanja Untuk Meningkatkan Kecerdasan Interpersonal Anak Usia Dini
Authors: Tyas Wenny Murtalining , Kusumaningtyas Nuraini , Nursyamsiyah Siti
Published: July 2022

Bermain peran merupakan salah satu permainan yang mampu melatih dan mengasah kecerdasan interpersonal anak. Salah satu bermain peran yang mampu melatih kecerdasan interpersonal anak adalah bermain peran pedagang cilik. Peran berdagang merupakan keteladanan Rasulullah masih berusia remaja, sifat yang rajin, jujur, pekerja keras merupakan sifat yang tercermin pada diri Rasulullah. Bermain peran ini menjadi salah satu favorit anak-anak PAUD usia (4-6 tahun), peran yang sering dimainkan adalah bermain pasar-pasaran. Meskipun permainan ini hanya mendengar celoteh anak yang tidak karuan, cidalnya, lucunya anak dalam berbicara namun banyak manfaat yang dapat diperoleh dari bermain peran menjadi pedagang cilik. Peneliti memberikan pendampingan mengenalkan mata uang mulai dari uang logan sampai pada uang kerta. Setelah memahami nominal mata uang mereka dilatih menjadi pedagang dan pembeli diminimarket, ada yang bertugas menjadi kasir, penjaga dan pembeli. Diantara manfaat yang diperoleh yaitu: asah imajinasi, terlatih berbahasa, mengenal fungsi uang, mengenal nilai benda, dan memicu jiwa wirausaha serta mampu bekerjasama dengan orang lain.
Intelligence Augmentation for Aviation-based NDE Data
Authors: Lindgren Eric , Aldrin John , Forsyth David
Published: July 2022

With the increased availability of digital data from nondestructive evaluation (NDE) systems, there is a natural inquisitiveness to explore the use of statistical regression and classification methods for NDE data. A continuous issue for Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML) methods is a question of how much data is required to enable training and how high of fidelity is required for such training. The challenge of relevant NDE-based data for aviation applications is not trivial. There are limited data sets as typical areas with flaws, such as fatigue cracks or corrosion, are repaired as soon as they are detected. Another challenge with USAF specific aviation NDE data is the broad range of variables that affect the data. To address the limitations of available data, the approach taken by the US Air Force (USAF) NDE community is to integrate attributes of AI/ML with other algorithms for analysis of NDE data, plus integrating human analysis into the final decision making process. The combination of both statistical analysis of data combined with human analysis to determine if flaws are present has been named Intelligence Augmentation (IA). The USAF has a rich history of using IA to analyze large NDE data sets, typically acquired from inspections that use automated scanning to acquire data. USAF research continues in the area of IA for various applications. Future opportunities will include improved integration of models, especially as a function of their maturity through validation.
Applying Acoustic Emission to Large Format Additive Manufacturing
Authors:   University of Tennessee, Spencer Ryan ,   Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Nunez Miguel Gonzalez ,   MISTRAS Group, Inc., Saboonchi Hossain ,   Otsuka America Pharmaceutical, Inc.,, Godinez-Azcuaga Valery ,   MISTRAS Group, Inc., Vaidya Uday ,   University of Tennessee,   Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Kunc Vlastimil ,   Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Hassen Ahmed Arabi ,   Oak Ridge National Laboratory,   University of Tennessee
Published: July 2022

Large format additive manufacturing (AM) is being adapted as a method of producing large structures in a short lead time and cost-effective way. With the growing advancement in AM techniques and application, machine monitoring and part qualification is highly needed. There has been leading research focused on the manufacturing development and feedstock material but minimum research on the structural health monitoring (SHM), defect detection, and nondestructive evaluation (NDE) for large format AM. Scanning large structure using conventional nondestructive testing (NDT) techniques, such as ultrasound or X-ray, and searching for potential defects can be very time consuming, challenging and cost prohibitive. Acoustic emission (AE) is a passive technique that can be used to monitor and locate defect progression in large structures by distributing group of sensors around the part. This research outlines the necessary procedure for implementing AE to AM as a reliability method. The topics this research will display are: (a) Wave propagation/velocity evaluation, (b) an AE attenuation characterization for the anisotropic printed structure and material, (c) background noise measurements of the extruder and gantry system, and (d) assist in optimal sensor selection and placement for monitoring large AM structures with demonstration. This work establishes the foundation for scaling up the SHM-AE system for the large additive platform.
Autonomous Ultrasonic Thickness Measurement using a Steel Climbing Mobile Robot Integrated with Martlet Wireless Sensing
Authors:   Georgia Institute of Technology, Otsuki Yu , Nguyen Son Thanh ,   University of Nevada, La Hung Manh ,   University of Nevada, Wang Yang ,   Georgia Institute of Technology
Published: July 2022

This paper reports the recent development towards autonomous ultrasonic thickness measurement on steel bridge members through the novel integration of a magnet-wheeled steel climbing bicycle robot and a wireless ultrasonic sensing device named Martlet. The compact Martlet wireless device has been designed to attain accurate thickness measurement through the combination of high-voltage excitation, filtering/amplification of the received ultrasonic signal, and high-speed analog-to-digital conversion (~80 MHz). To achieve autonomous inspection, the Martlet ultrasonic device is carried by the steel climbing bicycle robot along with a dual element transducer. The developed mobile sensing system successfully obtains accurate thickness measurement in laboratory testing.
Interlayer lack of fusion Characterization of Direct Energy Deposition Additive Manufactured (AM) Components using Nonlinear Ultrasound
Authors:   New Mexico State University, Ghasemi Rose , Dehghan-Niri Ehsan
Published: July 2022

Metal-based additive manufacturing (AM) has recently gotten a lot of interest in the automotive, oil and gas, aviation, and aerospace industries for constructing complicated components and parts. One of the most critical types of defect in products manufactured using this method is interlayer lack of fusion of the printed components. The traditional ultrasound techniques are unable to reliably detect and quantify such defects if the impedance mismatch of the defects with the surrounding materials is not significant. The interlayer lack of fusion transmits the majority of the sound energy in traditional ultrasonic testing procedures, reducing detection capabilities in pulse-echo or transmission inspection modes. However, nonlinear ultrasound techniques have shown promise in detecting similar defects like fatigue cracks that have the same limiting detection condition. Usually changes in the frequency domain are considered as damage sensitive feature for defect detection and evaluation. In this study, phase-space domain is used as a complementary domain to frequency domain to investigate the behavior of nonlinear ultrasound waves because of internal lack of fusion in the Direct Energy Deposition (DED) additive manufacturing process. the early experimental results on samples showed that this technique can be utilized to characterize the interlayer lack of fusion in the parts created using the metal-based AM process.
Numerical Studies on Inclusion and Porosity Imaging for Additive Manufacturing using Full Waveform Inversion
Authors:   The University of Alabama, Anwar Shoaib , He Jiaze , Aktharuzzaman MD , Rupp Ben
Published: July 2022

Undetected inclusions and porosities in the additive manufactured components are undesirable in industries like aerospace engineering. This paper is focused on imaging of micro inclusions and porosities in numerical models based on the properties of an additive manufactured metal using an advanced imaging technique—full-waveform inversion (FWI) as an ultrasonic non-destructive testing (NDT) technique. We developed three models with—single inclusion of 200µm, multiple inclusions of different sizes (30-200µm) and wave speeds, and multiple porosities (30-100µm). The performance of FWI was analyzed for each model. The reconstructed images of all models from the proposed FWI method gave relatively accurate results about the porosities and inclusions, exhibiting the potential of applying FWI in overcoming challenges in NDT for additively manufactured materials.
Microwave Characterization of Metal Powder Composites for Powder Property Characterization in Additive Manufacturing (AM)
Authors:   Iowa State University of Science and Technology, Filbert Joseph , Barvincak Aaronb , Al Qaseer Mohammad Tayeb , Zoughi Reza
Published: July 2022

Common additive manufacturing (AM) methods use metal powder feedstock. The properties of the metal powder such as, particle size distribution (PSD), morphology, and presence of surface oxides or other contaminants, can adversely affect the quality of the final built part. Microwave material characterization techniques potentially offer effective ways by which to evaluate such metal properties. To assess sensitivity of microwave signals to the properties of metal powder used in AM, different types of metal powder were incorporated into resin composite samples, whose dielectric properties were then measured using the completely filled-waveguide technique at both X-band (8.2-12.4 GHz) and Ka-band (26.5-40 GHz). These measurements revealed that microwave signals are sensitive to changes in the metal powder properties. The findings open the door for future investigations by which optimized techniques can be devised to do the same in an in-line manner during the AM process.