bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bertrand Paradox: Critical Consideration of Two of the Three Solutions in Terms of Geometry
Authors: Brazhnikov Pavel
Published: March 2023

This article presents the results of the consideration of the Bertrand paradox in terms of geometric probability theory. Although the method and conclusions of this article are straightforward, no equivalent studies were found when reviewing the relevant literature. This could be conditioned by the fact that the hypotheses presented in this research have low intuitive obviousness and, in contrast, could be due to the historically established agreement regarding the issue. This article shows that out of three classical solutions to the problem described by Bertrand, two methods are inconsistent with the claimed relative objectivity. Although the remaining solution (1/4) seems to be the most correct, we cannot claim that we have exhaustively ruled out all aspects that could reduce its adequacy to solve the problem.
Mpox Vaccine Interest Survey Prioritization and Data Flow: Maricopa County, Arizona, July–August 2022
Authors: Howard Brandon J. , Collins Jennifer E. , Staab R. Nicholas , Singh Sonia , Lara Erika , Kretschmer Melissa , Rehder Lori , Dellos Anne , White Jessica R. , Dale Ariella P.
Published: March 2023

With increasing mpox cases in Maricopa County, Arizona, the county’s health department launched a survey on July 11, 2022, to gather eligibility and contact data and provide clinic information to those interested in JYNNEOS as postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) or expanded postexposure prophylaxis (PEP++). Survey data were matched to case and vaccination data. Overall, 343 of the 513 respondents (66.9%) who reported close contact with an mpox case patient received PEP and 1712 of the 3379 respondents (50.7%) who were unsure of their contact status received PEP++. This outreach intervention connected potential close contacts unknown to MCDPH with PEP or PEP++. (Am J Public Health. 2023;113(5):504–508. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2023.307224 )
Concomitant Ipsilateral Intracapsular and Extracapsular Femoral Neck Fractures in Young Individuals
Authors: Arora Sumit , Kataria Ankit , Kashyap Abhishek , Khan Yasim , Sharma Mudit , Gupta Swati
Published: March 2023

Cases:

Concomitant ipsilateral intracapsular and extracapsular fractures of the femoral neck, also termed “segmental fracture neck femur,” are rare injuries, especially in physiologically young patients. We present 3 such cases that successfully underwent operative fixation with an extramedullary implant.

Conclusion:

Good clinical outcomes may be obtained after osteosynthesis with extramedullary fixation devices in concomitant ipsilateral intracapsular and extracapsular fractures of the femoral neck in young patients (<60 years). They should be followed for a long duration to look for avascular necrosis.
Targeted Muscle Reinnervation in the Setting of Traumatic Bilateral Above-Knee Amputations
Authors: Herzog Isabel , Weisberger Joseph , Ignatiuk Ashley
Published: March 2023

Case:

We present the case of a 20-year-old man who was pedestrian struck and sustained bilateral traumatic above-knee amputations. Targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR) was performed with nerve transfers, including tibial nerve to semitendinosus (bilateral), superficial peroneal nerve to biceps femoris (left), deep peroneal nerve to biceps femoris (left), and common peroneal nerve to biceps femoris (right).

Conclusions:

Less than 1 year postoperatively, the patient was ambulating on his myoelectric prosthesis and experienced no Tinel or neuroma-type pain. This case is a testament to the impact TMR, an innovative surgical technique, can have on the quality of life of patients sustaining devastating limb injuries.
Vascularized Composite Iliac Flap Grafting for Trapezial Metastasectomy in Clear Cell Renal Carcinoma
Authors: Pan ZhaoHui , Zhao YuXiang , Jiang PingPing
Published: March 2023

Case:

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) metastases rarely occur in the trapezium. We present the case of a 69-year-old man with clear cell RCC metastasis to the trapezium. After tumor resection, bone and soft-tissue defects were reconstructed with a vascularized osseo-fascio-fat composite iliac flap. Four years later, sorafenib was administered to treat subsequent pulmonary and femoral metastases.

Conclusion:

At the 7-year follow-up, neither local recurrence nor additional metastatic sites were observed. The affected wrist could perform 50° of extension and 40° of flexion. The patient could use his right thumb in daily activities without pain.
Severe Hypersensitivity Reaction to Dermabond Prineo After Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion
Authors: Zhang Andrew S , Saxena Tara A. , Abubakar Tunde , Fincher Phillip Garrett , Massey Patrick Allan
Published: March 2023

Case:

A 68-year-old woman underwent an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion for cervical radiculopathy and subsequently developed a severe contact hypersensitivity reaction in response to Dermabond Prineo, beginning 10 days postoperatively. The Dermabond Prineo mesh was removed, and the patient was treated symptomatically with diphenhydramine, systemic steroids, and oral antibiotics, with complete resolution of her symptoms.

Conclusion:

This is the first reported contact hypersensitivity reaction to Dermabond Prineo in the context of spine surgery. Surgeons should be able to recognize this presentation and treat this appropriately.
Part-time higher education students’ interactions with a virtual learning environment as an exploration of theories of connectivism
Authors:   Anglia Ruskin University, Connolly Steve , Wicks Karen ,   University of Bedfordshire
Published: March 2023

This article uses data from an action research project (ARP) conducted with part-time higher education (HE) students as a means of exploring the recent thinking about learning characterised by theories of connectivism. Both quantitative and qualitative data are presented to assess the extent to which connectivist theory might explain – and indeed develop – the use of a virtual learning environment (VLE) on a part-time Education degree in the United Kingdom (UK), particularly for students from non-traditional backgrounds. The article concludes by discussing what both the data themselves and connectivist perspectives on those data might have to say about VLE use in an age in which such learning platforms are but one means of accessing learning.
Supporting the wellbeing of associate lecturers at the Open University through a creative arts intervention
Authors:   The Open University, Bhandari Renu
Published: March 2023

This case study discusses an online space created for associate lecturers (ALs) working at the Open University, with the intention of supporting wellbeing through sharing – and responding to – each other’s examples of creative arts activities. This paper reflects on engagement with and outcomes from this intervention. Four key themes emerged in participant responses to the intervention: 1) increased connectedness; 2) a feeling of being away from work; 3) happiness, enjoyment and positive feelings; and 4) openness to new places, ideas and shares. The results were analysed in line with available studies on sense of belonging, connectedness and well-being. This project highlights the potential for shared online creative activities to support connectedness and wellbeing in educators and students who are working in the online environment.
Enabling High Performance Multi-Lateral Wells: Current Technologies and Gaps
Authors: Shor Roman J. , Mai An , Manolakos Athena E. , Sambrook James , Trivedi Ajesh , Hess Scott , Arseniuk Stephen
Published: March 2023

This paper presents the current state of the industry in multilateral wells (ML) and presents the key findings from a broad literature review and two knowledge sharing workshops hosted by the University of Calgary and the Clean Resource Innovation Network (CRIN) in late 2021 and early 2022. The technology to deliver ML wells is mature and has been demonstrated across thousands of wellbores around the world. Evaluation, characterization, and control of flows in ML wells is also possible using available technology, however, it is expensive and may be cost prohibitive. Modelling and optimization of flows from lateral legs may be done using existing reservoir simulators. However, some regulatory hurdles may remain, including accounting for production from different zones and licensing of legs. What generally limits the more widespread adoption of ML wells is the perception of elevated risk from decision makers, lack of familiarity with ML technologies, and the perceived costs of ML junctions and associated equipment and operations. By highlighting the technologies and successes, this paper aims to heighten awareness of ML technologies and further widen the adoption and implementation of ML wells.
Deep Learning Based Production Prediction for an Enhanced Geothermal System (EGS)
Authors: Xue Zhenqian , Chen Zhangxin
Published: March 2023

Hot dry rock (HDR) is a low-carbon geothermal resource and can be an alternative to fossil fuels. The prediction of sequential production is essential for operating a sustainable geothermal system, but its prediction using the numerical simulation method is time-consuming. Deep learning provides an alternative way for this task. However, previous studies mainly took the original production data as learning data, or more complexity, some constraint conditions were utilized in previous deep learning models to improve the prediction accuracy but enhance the process time. Besides, the research about comparisons of different deep learning algorithms lacks. In this work, three different deep learning algorithms, including the Recurrent Neural Network (RNN), Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), and Transformer, are applied to forecast the productivities of a three-horizontal-well EGS. A difference value operation is worked on the data samples at adjacent time steps, followed by comparisons of model performance. The results show that a difference value operation on data samples promotes the predictive ability of a deep learning model compared to a model with the original data. According to the root mean squared errors (RMSE), mean absolute errors (MAE), and mean absolute percentage errors (MAPE), Transformer demonstrates the highest prediction accuracy with a 0.00005 MAPE value. Importantly, deep learning significantly save prediction time by 14 times compared to numerical simulation. This work proves that a deep learning model under a difference value operation can be an encouraging alternative to numerical simulation in predicting time series geothermal production. The proposed data operation method can provide a promising performance so that complex operations to improve the model performance like complex field constraints can be efficiently avoided. Furthermore, the proposed method can also be applied to predictions in other industries.
Speaking Up: The role of women in building peace in Yemen
Authors: Jaffar Fatma
Published: March 2023

This paper brings the voices of Yemeni women forward. Women were active in the 2011 protests, influencing political developments at key junctures. However, subsequent armed conflicts militarized the political environment and pushed forward a more limited religious agenda that saw more and more women systematically marginalized in the process. This paper outlines these major trends and offers some key recommendations to the government and wider international community to better support women’s participation in peace negotiations and involvement in the Yemeni political arena.
Closing the Health Gap in Central Australia: Reduction in Indigenous Australian Inpatient Self-Discharge Rates Following Routine Collaboration with Aboriginal Health Workers
Authors: Cheok Tim , Berman Morgan , Delaney-Bindahneem Richard , Jennings Matthew Phillip , Bray Linda , Jaarsma Ruurd , Poonnoose Pradeep Mathew , Williams Kanishka , Jayasekera Narlaka
Published: March 2023

Background Indigenous Australians experience significant socioeconomic disadvantage and healthcare disparity compared to non-Indigenous Australians. A retrospective cohort study to describe the association between rates of self-discharge in Indigenous orthopaedic patients and the introduction of routine Aboriginal Liaison Officers (ALO) within the orthopaedic multi-disciplinary team (MDT) was performed. Methods ALO were introduced within our routine Orthopaedic MDT on the 22nd of February 2021. Two patient cohorts were analysed, Group 1; patients admitted in the 9-months prior to inclusion of ALO, and Group 2; patients admitted within 9-months thereafter. The primary outcome of interest was the rate of self-discharge among Indigenous patients. Secondary outcomes of interest were the stage of treatment when patients self-discharged, recurrent self-discharge and risk factors for self-discharge. Results Introduction of ALO within routine Orthopaedic MDT was associated with a significant 37% reduced risk of self-discharge among Indigenous patients (p = 0·009), and significantly fewer self-discharges before their definitive surgical and medical treatment (p = 0.0024), or before completion of postoperative intravenous antibiotic treatment (p = 0·030). There was no increased risk of recurrent self-discharge (p = 0·557). Risk factors for self-discharge were younger age; pensioners or unemployed; residents of Alice Springs Town-Camps or of communities within 51 to 100 km distance of Alice Springs; and those diagnosed with lacerations of the upper limb, but without tendon injury, wound and soft tissue infections and osteomyelitis. Conclusions Routine inclusion of ALO within the Orthopaedic MDT reduced the risk of self-discharge in Indigenous patients. The minority who do persist, tend to delay their self-discharge until critical aspects of their care is met.
Thianthrene Radical Cation as a Transient SET Mediator: Photoinduced Thiocyanation and Selenocyanation of Arylthianthrenium Salts
Authors: Chen Xiao-Yue , Kuang Xin , Wu Yichen , Zhou Jian , Wang Peng
Published: March 2023

A novel transient SET mediator approach has been developed for the photoinduced radical-radical cross coupling reaction. Using the in-situ generated thianthrene radical cation as the transient SET mediator, the thiocyanation and selenocyanation of aryl thianthrenium salts have been realized under the mild conditions in the absence of the photocatalyst or single electron donor. In comparison with the photocatalyst enabled process, the protocol features mild conditions, simple manipulation, a broad substrate scope, excellent functional group and heterocycle tolerance. Due to the feasible accessibility of aryl thianthrenium salts, this method has also been applied in the efficient synthesis of a bioactive molecule, and the late-stage functionalization of complex arenes.
Amazonian vegetated estuarine ecosystem as a global hotspot in carbon sequestration
Authors: Ward Raymond , Lacerda Luiz , Cerqueira Aline da Silva , Giarrizzo Tommaso
Published: March 2023

Mangroves provide a vital role in mitigating climate change through sequestering large amounts of carbon. Brazil contains the second largest extent of mangroves in the world, with 77% of this adjacent to the Amazon estuary, a largely understudied region, due to its extent and inaccessibility.
To address this, this study analysed rates of carbon sequestration in the mangroves and várzea of the Amazon estuary. Observed rates of carbon sequestration varied between 111-3,487 gC m2 year-1, with a regional average of 1,718 gC m2 year-1. This compares very favourably with previously reported global averages of 134-226 gC m2 year-1, suggesting that these sites sequester an order of magnitude more carbon than global averages.
This is likely due to the large volume of organic material provided by the Amazon and Tocantins Rivers, as well as from inputs along the coast from the Bragança Mangrove, the second largest continuous mangrove in the world.
General spectral characteristics of human activity and its inherent scale-free fluctuations
Authors: Maczák Bálint , Gingl Zoltán , Vadai Gergely
Published: March 2023

Although actigraphy is commonly used in many research areas, the activity calculation methods are not standardized, therefore activity signals can be very different. The scale-free nature of daily human activity has been observed in different aspects; however, the description of its spectral characteristics is incomplete. The presence of 1/f noise in activity or acceleration signals was mostly analysed for short time windows, the complete spectral characteristic has only been examined in the case of certain types of activity signals. To explore the general spectral nature of human activity in greater detail, we have performed Power Spectral Density (PSD) based examination and Detrended Fluctuation Analysis (DFA) on multi-day-long, triaxial actigraphic acceleration signals of 42 healthy, free-living individuals. We generated different types of activity signals from these, using different acceleration preprocessing techniques and activity metrics. We revealed that different types of activity signals’ spectra generally follow a universal characteristic including 1/f noise over frequencies above the circadian rhythmicity. Moreover, we discovered that the PSD of the raw acceleration signal has this same characteristic. Our findings prove that the spectral scale-free nature is generally inherent to the motor activity of healthy, free-living humans, and is not limited to any particular activity calculation method.
Prediction of the Undrained Shear Strength of the Remolded Soil with Non-Linear Regression, Fuzzy Logic and Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Yünkül Kaan , Karaçor Fatih , Gurbuz Ayhan , Budak Tahsin Ömür
Published: March 2023

The aim of this study is to predict the undrained shear strength (Cu) of the remolded soil samples and for this purpose, non-linear regression (NLR) analyses, fuzzy logic (FL) and artificial neural network (ANN) modelling were used to assess. Total 1306 undrained shear strength results of soil types of CH, CL, MH and ML from 230 different remolded soil test settings on 21 publications were collected while six different measurement devices were used by researchers. Although water content, plastic limit and liquid limit were used as input parameters for FL and ANN modelling, liquidity index or water content ratio were considered as input parameter for NLR analyses. In NLR analyses, 12 different regression equations were derived for prediction of Cu. Feed-Forward backpropagation and TANSIG transfer function were used for ANN modelling while Mamdani inference system was preferred with trapezoidal and triangular membership function for FL modelling. The experimental results of 914 tests for training of the ANN models, 196 for validation and 196 for testing were used. It was observed that the accuracy of the ANN and FL modellings were higher than NRL analyses. Furthermore, the simple and reliable regression equation was proposed for assessments of Cu values having higher coefficient of determination values (R2).
Assessment of earthquake localization uncertainties for the design of local seismic networks
Authors: Fuggi Antonio , Re Simone , Tango Giorgio , Gaudio Sergio Del , Brovelli Alessandro , Cassiani Giorgio
Published: March 2023

The capability of estimating earthquake source locations, together with the appraisal of the relevant uncertainties, plays a crucial role in monitoring and managing both underground anthropogenic activities as well as the natural (micro)seismicity. This is especially true in the close proximity of hydrocarbon production or storage sites, geothermal fields and in general all activities that involve injection/production of fluid or gases in the subsurface. To this end, a monitoring network must be carefully designed to minimize the location errors introduced by geometrically unbalanced networks. In this study, we first review the different sources of errors that are relevant to the localization of seismic events, how they propagate through the localization algorithms, and their impact on the outcome. We then propose a quantitative methodology, based on a Monte-Carlo approach, to estimate the accuracy of earthquake localization, and particularly suited to the design, optimization, and assessment of the performances of a local seismic monitoring network. This work is an effort to propose a more realistic and reliable way to evaluate the location uncertainty of seismic events, going beyond simplified approaches that tend to under- and over-estimate this metric. To illustrate the performance of the proposed approach, we have analyzed the distribution of the localization errors and their related dispersion on a very dense grid of theoretical hypocenters, in both horizontal and vertical directions, by using a real monitoring network layout. The results expand in a quantitative fashion the qualitative indications drawn from purely geometrical parameters (the azimuthal gap), and from classical detectability maps.
Effectiveness of prime vendor system on availability of medicines and medical supplies in selected public health facilities in Arusha district council
Authors: Elias Liberatus , Mushi Lawrencia
Published: March 2023

Background
The shortage of medicines and medical supplies seems to be a major issue that is facing public health facilities in Tanzania. Formerly, the Government initiatives such as engagement with the Prime Vendor System (PVS) demonstrated great assistance in getting rid of this challenge. Despite the operation of PVS, a recent shortage of medicines and medical supplies has been noticed.
Objectives
This study aim to assess the effectiveness of PVS on the availability of medicine and medical supplies in selected public health facilities in Arusha District Council.
Methods
The study used a case study design with mixed research approach. We involved 77 respondents which included 25 health-facility-in charges, 50 patients, 1 District Pharmacist Officer and 1 Prime Vendor. Questionnaires, interviews, and observation methods were used to collect data. Data collected covered a period of 2021–2022. Thematic analysis was used to analyze qualitative data whereas descriptive analysis was used to analyze quantitative data with the help of Excel and the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 28.0.
Results
The analysis indicates that PVS is not completely effective in supplying medicine and medical supplies due to its low capacity to conform to the orders placed by the public health facilities, a lack of supply competition, and a failure to adhere to contractual terms. Furthermore, at the time of data collection, the average availability of medicines and medical supplies at the selected public health facilities was 74.8%, whereby 80% of the selected public health facilities reported having a scarcity of medicines and medical supplies, and 92% of the interviewed patients reported having no full access to medicines.
Conclusion
Despite the shortcomings associated with the operation of the PVS, the system still seems to be very important for enhancing the availability of medicines and medical supplies once its effectiveness is strengthened. This study recommends a routine monitoring of PVS operations and timely interventions in order to reinforce adherence to the contracted terms and improve PVS effectiveness.
Clinical features and treatment of intracranial aneurysms in pediatric patients (with 9 case reports)
Authors: Wu Xuchao , Gheyret Dilmurat , Geng Dangmurenjiafu , Sheng Chengjun , Aisha Maimaitiaili
Published: March 2023

Objective To analyze the clinical characteristics, treatment, and prognosis of intracranial aneurysms in pediatrics
Methods9 pediatric patients (aged less than 18 years) with a diagnosis of intracranial aneurysm in the neurosurgical vascular group at our center from January 2015 to January 2022 are collected and their clinical data are analyzed retrospectively. We report the results of this study.
Results In this group, there are 6 pediatric male patients and 3 pediatric female patients with intracranial aneurysms, of which 6 are anterior circulation aneurysms, 2 are posterior circulation aneurysms, and 1 is multiple aneurysms. There are 4 cases of the small aneurysm (diameter less than 1 cm), 4 cases of the large aneurysm (diameter 1.0-2.5 cm), and 1 case of a giant aneurysm (diameter more than 2.5 cm). 6 pediatric patients underwent craniotomy, and 3 pediatric patients underwent vascular intervention, there is no death in this group, 6 pediatric patients have a good prognosis (modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score 0-1), 3 pediatric patients have a mild disability The prognosis of 6 patients is good (modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score 0-1), and 3 patients have a mild impairment and other sequelae (modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score 2).
Conclusion: The clinical features of intracranial aneurysms in pediatric patients are somewhat distinct from those seen in adults, and there is a need to develop individualized treatment plans regarding aneurysm site, size, character, and other global factors.
Prevalence and Predictors of Anxiety and Depression in Chinese Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome undergoing Infertility Treatment
Authors: He Hui , Zhang Shike , Wang Yu , Wu Xiaoke
Published: March 2023

Aim: To investigate the prevalence and predictors for anxiety and depression in Chinese women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) undergoing infertility treatment.
Materials and Methods: This study was a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled clinical trial in which a total of 1,000 women with PCOS undergoing infertility treatment recruited from 27 hospitals across mainland China were enrolled. Anthropometric, endocrine, and metabolic parameters were measured at the baseline visit. Anxiety and depression state were evaluated according to the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) and the Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS). Mann–Whitney test and logistic regression were used to identify predictors for anxiety and depression.
Results: A total of 19.86% of the women had anxiety, and the prevalence of mild, moderate, and severe anxiety were 16.45%, 2.91% and 0.50%, respectively. A total of 24.58% of the women had depression, and the prevalence of mild, moderate, and severe depression were 18.96%, 5.52% and 0.10%, respectively. The multivariate logistic regression results showed that age, acne score, and number of induced abortions were independent predictors for anxiety. In terms of depression, its related factors included age, hypertension, and duration of infertility.
Conclusions: It seems that anxiety and depression among women with PCOS in our country were not as high as in Western countries. The dominating predictors for anxiety in PCOS were age, acne score, and number of induced abortions, and the major predictors for depression were age, hypertension, and duration of infertility. These predictors explored in this study may promote the development of individualized interventions for psychological disorders in such patients.
Geochemical Characterization and Water Quality Index Based Assessment of Groundwater Quality Using GIS In Tropical River Basin: Case Study in Kirama-Ara River Basin, Southern Province, Sri Lanka.
Authors: Dissanayake Indunil Pradeep , Perera T.A.N.T , Jayasinghe G.Y
Published: March 2023

In the Kirama-ara River basin, Matara, southern region of Sri Lanka, a variety of agricultural inputs are utilized, and flooding is a common hazard. Therefore, the groundwater in this area is under serious threat. But, the complete physicochemical profile of the groundwater in the Kirama-ara river basin is yet undiscovered. Therefore, the goals of this study were to (a) identify the geochemical characteristics and changes in water quality, (b) evaluate non-carcinogenic health risk and develop a Groundwater quality index (GWQI), and (c) generate a spatial distribution map for groundwater physicochemical characters in the Kirama-ara river basin in Matara, Sri Lanka. The physiochemical characteristics of 16 (G1 to G16) groundwater samples, including pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, K+, Cl−, NO3−, PO43−, and SO42−, were examined for spatial and chronological variations. The pH, NO3−, and PO43− values of 50% (G1,G4,G7,G12,G13,G14,G15,G16), 6.25% (G16), and 6.25% (G16) of the samples, respectively, were determined to be exceeded the allowable limit by both the WHO and SLS standards. The physicochemical investigation demonstrated that while 87.5% of the locations were acceptable for drinking, 12.5% of them lacked sufficient amounts. The most common hydro-chemical facies were Ca2+-Mg2+-HCO3−, mixed Ca2+-Mg2+-Cl− face, and Ca2+-Cl−. Rock weathering has a weighty effect on the ionic composition and chemistry of groundwater in the study area. Additionally, health risk assessment revealed that children face greater health risks than adults. Further investigations should be conducted to build reasonable management plans for long-term groundwater quality conservation and public health.
Long term administration of loquat (Eriobotrya japonica) leaves and their major component, ursolic acid, attenuated endogenous amyloid-β burden and memory impairment
Authors: Iwasa Kensuke , Yagishita Sosuke , Yagishita-Kyo Nan , Yamagishi Anzu , Yamamoto Shinji , Yamashina Kota , Haruta Chikara , Asai Masashi , Maruyama Kei , Shimizu Kuniyoshi , Yoshikawa Keisuke
Published: March 2023

Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica) leaves exert anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects in several animal models of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease. Loquat leaves contain many bioactive components such as ursolic acid (UA) and amygdalin. In this study, we investigated the effects of loquat leaf methanol extracts on amyloid-beta peptide (Ab) 42 production in human neuroglioma H4 cells stably expressing the Swedish-type APP695 (APPNL-H4 cells). We also evaluated endogenous Ab42 production, phosphorylated tau (P-tau), and working memory in wild-type C57BL/6J mice fed loquat leaves for 12 months. Surprisingly, the methanol extract of loquat leaves greatly enhanced cellular Ab42 production in APPNL-H4 cells. Administration of loquat leaf powder resulted in increased Ab42 levels after 3 months and decreased levels after 12 months compared to control mice. Administration of loquat leaf powder had no effect on working memory after 3 months, but improved working memory after 12 months. We hypothesized that the major compounds contained in loquat leaves that affect Ab42 production are UA and amygdalin. Administration of UA decreased Ab42 and P-tau levels and improved working memory after 12 months, similar to the administration of loquat leaves for 12 months. Amygdalin enhanced cellular Ab42 production in APPNL-H4 cells, which was the same as the loquat leaf extract. Three-month administration of amygdalin in mice increased Ab42 levels slightly but did not significantly increase them, which is similar to the trend observed with the administration of loquat leaves for 3 months. In this study, we demonstrated that long-term administration of loquat leaves and UA attenuated endogenous Ab42 levels, P-tau, and memory impairment. UA was likely the main compound contained in loquat leaves responsible for the decrease in intracerebral Ab42 and P-tau levels. Our data also suggest that amygdalin might be one of the compounds in loquat leaves responsible for the transiently increased intracerebral Ab42 levels, although this effect did not seem to accelerate neurodegeneration.
Daily reference evapotranspiration estimation based on a different input combination using an artificial neural network. Case study of the Mitidja plain (N.Algeria)
Authors: GHERBI Khadidja , AMMARI Abdelhadi , MEDDI Mohamed
Published: March 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Cavity Flow Permeability Testing of an Intact Granite
Authors: Selvadurai APS
Published: March 2023

Permeability of intact geologic media features prominently in many geo-environmental endeavours. The laboratory estimation of permeability is an important adjunct to the field estimation of bulk permeability values, which involves a great deal of supplementary in situ investigations to correctly interpret field data. Laboratory permeability estimation is also a viable method if core samples are recovered from in situ geological mapping of the region under study. The basic methodologies for permeability estimation rely on either steady state or transient tests of the geologic material depending on the anticipated permeability value. This paper presents a brief review of these two basic approaches and uses a steady flow test conducted on a partially drilled cavity located on the axis of a cylindrical specimen. Certain compact theoretical relationships are proposed for the estimation of steady flow from a cavity of finite dimensions located along the axis of a cylindrical specimen. The relationships are used to estimate the permeability of a cylinder of Lac du Bonnet granite obtained from the western flank of the Canadian Shield. The results from the cavity flow permeability experiments are compared with other estimates for the permeability of granitic rocks reported in the literature.
Extracting vertical and horizontal ground deformation components from minimum-track radar interferometry
Authors: Chang Zhanqiang , Liu Jiaxi , Qian Shujun , Wang Yanqiao , Zhang Jingfa , Chen Mi , Li Yakai , Zhu Jie , Wang Wei , He Jiewei , Zheng Haoxin
Published: March 2023

In nature, the vertical and horizontal deformation components happen simultaneously for most geohazards, which sometimes bring disasters to human beings. As an advanced radar interferometry technique, InSAR (Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar) can efficiently obtain ground deformation information at a global scale, but it can only obtain the deformation along radar LOS (line of sight) direction. To extract vertical and horizontal deformation components, the existing methods need at least three-track InSAR LOS measurements or azimuth measurements. However, it is generally unlikely to acquire a three-track SAR dataset covering the same region during the same time range. Herein, through mathematical deduction, we find out that both vertical and horizontal deformation components can be extracted just from two-track InSAR LOS measurements. and the analytical expressions are presented. Furthermore, the proposed method is validated by experiments. It is the first time that both vertical and horizontal deformation components have been extracted just from two-track InSAR LOS measurements without using any other measurements. Hence, it can greatly enhance the three-dimensional information acquisition ability of radar interferometry.
How Disruptive are Unreliable Electric Vehicle Chargers? Empirically Evaluating the Impact of Charger Reliability on Driver Experience
Authors: Karanam Vaishnavi , Tal Gil
Published: March 2023

The shift from conventional internal combustion engine vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs) hinges on both the quantity and quality of EV charging infrastructure. While much research has focused on the importance of and challenges to increasing the quantity of EV chargers worldwide, less has been devoted to assessing the quality of existing EV chargers. Here, we analyze a year’s worth of real-world EV charging data from 132 EVs driven in California, to provide insights about the reliability of EV chargers as experienced by EV drivers. By quantifying and qualifying the level of disruption associated with both real and hypothetical charge failures, we find that EV chargers are not all equally important to EV drivers, highlighting the need for more nuanced charging reliability standards to effectively meet consumer charging needs. While the level of disruption associated with a charge failure for over 90% of charging sessions was fairly low, the consequences of a charge failure for the remaining sessions were catastrophic - 3% of hypothetical charge failures and 0.3% of the real charge failures led to drivers being stranded. These highly disruptive charge failures are associated with long distance travel (LDT), low charger density areas, DC Fast charging, and lack of access to home charging – chargers linked to these conditions should ideally be held to much higher standards than chargers linked to lower levels of disruption.
Factors preventing health sciences university students in Japan from undergoing cervical cancer screening: A cross-sectional study
Authors: IRINO Satoshi , OSE Hiroko , TAKATA Naoki , KAMOSHIDA Shingo , OHSAKI Hiroyuki
Published: March 2023

Background
In most developed countries, cervical cancer screening and human papillomavirus vaccination have reduced the incidence of cervical cancer. However, the incidence of cervical cancer has been increasing in Japan, possibly because of the low screening rate. Although the incidence of cervical cancer has increased in people in their 20s, the screening rate among 20–24-year-olds in Japan is only 10.2%. Therefore, it is necessary to increase the cervical cancer screening rates in Japan, particularly among young women.
Methods
We conducted a questionnaire survey among students at a health sciences university to determine their knowledge of cervical cancer, screening rates, and factors that prevent young women from undergoing screening.
Results
We observed that knowledge of cervical cancer was high among students taking specialized medical courses; recognition of the facts that “cervical cancer can be prevented through screening” and “the risk of cervical cancer increases in one’s 20s” was high among those who had undergone screening. Coupons for free screening had an unsatisfactory effect.
Conclusions
The cervical cancer screening rate among Japanese university students is low. Therefore, educational programs are required to increase awareness of the importance of cervical cancer screening among young women.
CUDC-907, a dual PI3K/histone deacetylase inhibitor, increases meta-iodobenzylguanidine uptake (123/131I-mIBG) in vitro and in vivo: a promising candidate for advancing theranostics in neuroendocrine tumors
Authors: Grand-Guillaume Joana , Mansi Rosalba , Gaonkar Raghuvirharidas , Zanger sandra , Fani Melpomeni , Eugster Philippe , Beck-Popovic Maja , Grouzmann Eric , Abid karim
Published: March 2023

Background
Neuroblastoma (NB) and pheochromocytoma/paraganglioma (PHEO/PGL) are neuroendocrine tumors. Imaging of these neoplasms is performed by scintigraphy after injection of radiolabeled meta-iodobenzylguanidine (mIBG), a norepinephrine analog taken up by tumoral cells through monoamine transporters. The pharmacological induction of these transporters is a promising approach to improve the imaging and therapy (theranostics) of these tumors.
Methods
Transporters involved in mIBG internalization were identified by using transfected Human Embryonic Kidney (HEK) cells. Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) and inhibitors of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway were tested in cell lines to study their effect on mIBG internalization. Studies in xenografted mice were performed to assess the effect of the most promising HDACi on 123I-mIBG uptake.
Results
Transfected HEK cells demonstrated that the norepinephrine and dopamine transporter (NET and DAT) avidly internalizes mIBG. Sodium-4-phenylbutyrate (an HDACi), CUDC-907 (a dual HDACi and PI3K inhibitor), BGT226 (a PI3K inhibitor) and VS-5584 and rapamycin (two inhibitors of mTOR) increased mIBG internalization in a neuroblastoma cell line (IGR-NB8) by 2.9-, 2.1-, 2.5-, 1.5- and 1.3-fold, respectively, compared with untreated cells. CUDC-907 also increased mIBG internalization in two other NB cell lines and in one PHEO cell line. We demonstrated that mIBG internalization occurs primarily through the NET. In xenografted mice with IGR-NB8 cells, oral treatment with 5 mg/kg of CUDC-907 increased the tumor uptake of 123I-mIBG by 2.3- and 1.9-fold at 4 and 24 hours post-injection, respectively, compared to the untreated group.
Conclusions
Upregulation of the NET by CUDC-907 lead to a better internalization of mIBG in vitro and in vivo.
Activated hepatic stellate cells promote expansion of LGR5-positive progenitor cells in fibrotic human liver disease
Authors: Kong Defu , Smith-Cortinez Natalia , Heegsma Janette , Blokzijl Hans , de Meijer Vincent E , Faber Klaas Nico
Published: March 2023

Background Liver regeneration is compromised in advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis, where progenitor cell therapy is being considered as a therapeutic option. Little is known about the presence and potential role of leucine-rich-repeat-containing G protein-coupled receptor 5-expressing (LGR5+) progenitor cells in chronically injured human liver. In this study, we analyzed LGR5 expression in fibrotic and cirrhotic human livers and studied the interaction between human liver organoids and hepatic stellate cells (HSC) in vitro.
Methods Control and fibrotic human liver tissues were combined in a tissue microaarray and sections were stained with H&E or Sirius red, or immune-stained for LGR5 and various liver cell type markers. Adult LGR5+ progenitor cell-derived human liver organoids were co-cultured with human LX-2 HSC or exposed to LX-2 conditioned medium and analyzed by q-PCR and immuno-microscopy.
Results LGR5 mRNA were significantly enhanced in fibrotic liver tissue and LGR5+ cell numbers positively correlated with the stage of fibrosis. LGR5+ cells accumulated close to the fibrotic bands and co-expressed hepatocyte markers, but not cholangiocyte markers. TGFβ1-activated LX-2 cells enhanced LGR5 expression in organoids and organoid growth, results that were replicated by exposing organoids to LX-2-conditioned medium. Blocking LX-2 activation by dimethyloxalylglycine prevented all these effects on liver organoids.
Conclusion LGR5+ progenitor cells are abundantly present in human liver fibrosis. Activated HSC induce LGR5 expression and growth of human liver organoids. Treatment of advanced liver fibrosis may therefore not strongly benefit from adding exogenous progenitor cells, but rather from promoting expansion and differentiation of the endogenous LGR5+ cells.
The Use of Lagrangian Interpolation Polynomial to Predict the Safe Distances for a Borehole Location in the Cemetery Vicinity
Authors: Fakunle Mutiu Alani , Adeleke David Kehinde
Published: March 2023

Leachate formation and migration from cemeteries is a major threat to underground water bodies due to toxic chemicals released during decomposition. This study uses Lagrangian Interpolation Polynomial (LIP) to predict safe distances for locating hand-dug wells in the vicinity of a cemetery in Ede (Latitude 7.7349oN and Longitude 4.4439oE). Eleven (11) soil samples were collected using hand augers at 20.0 m intervals from the center of the cemetery to the outside of the sloppy side of it at a maximum depth of 2.0 m; they were analyzed in the laboratory for the presence of leachate ionic concentrations (LIC) (nitrate, sulphate, and carbonate). The analysis results were substituted into LIP to obtain a Model Equation (ME) for the predicted concentration (PC) of each ion. The graphs of LIC and PC against distance were plotted for each ionic component to compare and test for accuracy. The ME of PC for different ionic components was combined to obtain a General Model Equation (GME) for PC. The results of the correlation coefficient (CC) of LIC and PC for each model revealed that there is a strong correlation between them for nitrate (RRN = 0.9278, RPN = 0.9273), sulphate (RRS = 0.9394 and RPS = 0.9384), and carbonates (RRC = 0.9706 and RPC = 0.9701). The CC of GME of LIC and PC indicated a close correlation. Hence, Therefore, LIP can be used to calculate safe distances from cemeteries for hand-dug wells and boreholes.
The efficiency, inter-rater reliability and validity of a mobile application to aid periodontal classification.
Authors: Smith Michael , Alani Aws , Woolley Julian
Published: March 2023

Introduction
Periodontitis is the sixth most common disease worldwide, with almost half of the UK adult population having a degree of irreversible periodontitis. Forming an accurate diagnosis is paramount in making decisions regarding treatment planning. The aim of this study was to assess the inter-rater reliability, validity and efficiency of a smartphone application to aid in forming a periodontitis diagnosis compared with conventional methods.
Methods
Twenty-five Dental Core Trainees (DCTs) were randomly allocated into two groups. All dentists were asked to diagnose 10 periodontal cases and time taken to complete was measured. In addition, participants recorded their confidence in forming a periodontal diagnosis. The experimental group undertook the exercise with the aid of a smartphone application to aid in forming a diagnosis. The control group used a diagnostic flow diagram published by the British Society of Periodontology.
Results
The mean of correct responses was 90% in the app group and 85% in the control group. The time to complete was 15.5 minutes in the app group and 20 minutes in the control group. These findings were statistically significant. Inter-rater reliability for both groups was comparably high.
Conclusion
The use of the mobile application increased the accuracy and efficiency in forming a periodontal diagnosis compared to traditional diagnostic aids.
Liver abscess formation after transarterial chemoembolization in patients with malignant hepatic tumors: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Yunan , Wang Hairui , Liu Zhaoyu , Chang Zhihui
Published: March 2023

Background
Liver abscess rarely occurs after transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) for liver cancer; however, its consequences are often serious. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the incidence of liver abscess and analyze its risk factors and mortality.
Methods
Two authors searched PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases to identify reports of liver abscess formation after TACE in patients with malignant hepatic tumors. These searches encompassed each database from the date of its establishment until May 2022. We screened the articles and extracted the data.
Results
The pooled incidence of liver abscess formation after TACE was 0.54%. The heterogeneity of the studies was considerable and significant. Subgroup analyses revealed that the incidence of liver abscess formation after TACE was higher in studies that were of high quality and had small sample sizes. Liver metastasis and type 2 biliary abnormalities were significantly associated with the formation of liver abscess, and treatment with prophylactic antibiotics (PAs) was protective against liver abscesses. The pooled mortality rate of liver abscess was 7.73%, and the differences in mortality rates among the studies were statistically significant based on temporal trends. Egger’s test and funnel plots showed significant publication bias.
Conclusions
The incidence of liver abscess formation after TACE is low, but special attention should be paid to patients with type 2 biliary abnormalities and liver metastases. Treatment with PAs could reduce this incidence. The mortality rates of liver abscess decreased progressively over time.