bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of accounting information system quality on financial performance
Authors:   Padjajaran University, Anggraeni Annisa Fitri , Winarningsih Srihadi ,   Padjajaran University
Published: June 2022

Decision-making by management is supported by quality accounting information, which is produced by a quality accounting the current research is to determine empirically the impact of organizational framework on the accounting information systems quality and their effects on the financial status. In this study, we use structural equation modeling with the PLS approach to analyze 72 respondents who come from star hotels in the city of Bandung, West Java, Indonesia. The results show that the overall organizational framework has a dominant impact on the application of quality accounting information systems and directly and indirectly supports the production of quality accounting information. In addition, a quality accounting information system has a strong influence in producing quality accounting information.
Theoretical and methodological approaches to assessing the quality of regional economic space
Authors:   Belgorod National Research University, Bondareva Yana , Vaganova Oksana ,   Belgorod National Research University, Vladyka Marina ,   Belgorod National Research University, Kamyschanchenko Elena ,   Belgorod National Research University, Stryabkova Elena ,   Belgorod National Research University
Published: June 2022

Today, the problems of spatial development of territories require new thinking, as they still remain unresolved in Russia. The problems are inefficient regional economic structure, enormous internal contrasts and disparities, population decline and economic marginalisation of peripheral areas of the country, and a shrinking zone of political and economic influence on the world stage. Importantly, there is a growing threat to the integrity of the space due to the intensified internal socio-economic disparities of the country in the course of the current political and economic trends. Emerging territorial disparities, determined by the value of deviations from the average values of regional development, are the main problem of sustainable spatial development of territories. For the decision of problems of spatial-territorial development of innovation system of region it is necessary to realize estimation of quality of economic space on the basis of different indexes. These indicators can include territorial ones, used as tools to assess the innovation subsystem of the regional economy, as well as various approaches to the analysis of spatial factors considered in assessing the types of economic space in the region. The analysis of existing approaches to the assessment of the quality of economic space has shown that to date there is no universal approach. This fact confirms the statement that the study of such category as economic space, assessing its quality is a complex and multitask process.
Compositional Alterations of the Nasal Microbiome and Staphylococcus aureus–Characterized Dysbiosis in the Nasal Mucosa of Patients With Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Kim Hyun Jik , Kim Jong-Hwa , Han Sun-A , Kim Wonyong
Published: June 2022

Objectives. Host–microbial commensalism can shape the innate immune response in the nasal mucosa, and the microbial characteristics of nasal mucus directly impact the mechanisms of the initial allergic responses in the nasal epithelium. We sought to determine alterations of the microbial composition in the nasal mucus of patients with allergic rhinitis (AR) and to elucidate the interplay between dysbiosis of the nasal microbiome and allergic inflammation.Methods. In total, 364,923 high-quality bacterial 16S ribosomal RNA-encoding gene sequence reads from 104 middle turbinate mucosa samples from healthy participants and patients with AR were obtained and analyzed using the Quantitative Insights into Microbial Ecology pipeline.Results. We analyzed the microbiota in samples of nasal mucus from patients with AR (n=42) and clinically healthy participants (n=30). The Proteobacteria (Ralstonia genus) and Actinobacteria (Propionibacterium genus) phyla were predominant in the nasal mucus of healthy subjects, whereas the Firmicutes (Staphylococcus genus) phylum was significantly abundant in the nasal mucus of patients with AR. In particular, the Ralstonia genus was significantly dominant in the clinically healthy subjects. Additional pyrosequencing data from 32 subjects (healthy participants: n=15, AR patients: n=17) revealed a greater abundance of Staphylococcus epidermidis, Corynebacterium accolens, and Nocardia coeliaca, accounting for 41.55% of mapped sequences in the nasal mucus of healthy participants. Dysbiosis of the nasal microbiome was more pronounced in patients with AR, and Staphylococcus aureus exhibited the greatest abundance (37.69%) in their nasal mucus, in association with a positive response to house dust mites and patients’ age and height.Conclusion. This study revealed alterations in the nasal microbiome in the nasal mucus of patients with AR at the levels of microbial genera and species. S. aureus-dominant dysbiosis was distinctive in the nasal mucus of patients with AR, suggesting a role of host-microbial commensalism in allergic inflammation.
Hand Sanitizers Containing Alcohol and their Effects on the Skin during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Hussein Ramadan S
Published: June 2022

COVID-19 is a contagious disease with a high case fatality and morbidity rate associated with a pandemic outbreak. Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 infection can take place via airborne transmission, droplet, or direct contact. Implementing effective preventive measures remains the most important option available for dealing with SARS-CoV-2. The effectiveness of surface disinfectants, sanitizers, and personal protective equipment is totally based on three factors—strength, composition, and material—to determine whether or not preventive measures will be effective. Coronavirus transmission is disrupted by the use of an alcohol-based sanitizer containing 62% to 95% alcohol, which can denature viral proteins. However, hand sanitizers and disinfectants used on a regular daily basis may harm the skin's surface. In this study, we cover the importance of selecting the right disinfectant, the proper method of hand sanitization, and how to minimize the harmful effects on the skin while enhancing the inhibitory activity that could be a viable prescription for fighting COVID-19.
Estratégias de aprendizagem individual no ensino de Alemão como Língua Adicional: um projeto de consultoria acadêmica
Authors: Aquino Marceli Cherchiglia , Schmidt Camila Marcucci , Feitosa Mariana de Lima
Published: June 2022

O presente artigo visa refletir sobre a experiência em um projeto de consultoria acadêmica baseado em Ferreira e Marques-Schäfer (2016), voltado ao ensino de estratégias de aprendizagem individual em turmas de alemão como língua adicional em contexto universitário. Para incentivar uma postura crítica e consciente no seu processo de aprendizagem, as estudantes foram envolvidas ativamente no planejamento e desenvolvimento do projeto (AQUINO, 2021). As escolhas das estratégias a partir de Oxford (1990) e ferramentas de aprendizagem para a elaboração das atividades foram, portanto, baseadas nas necessidades e interesses de aprendizes da disciplina de Língua Alemã II, do curso de graduação de Letras da Universidade de São Paulo. Os encontros da consultoria foram acompanhados por duas monitoras da disciplina, que negociavam com as estudantes as atividades a serem realizadas, assim como a discussão dos resultados. As análises de dados apresentadas neste artigo foram baseadas nas anotações de campo das monitorias, nos registros dos diários de aprendizagem e nas respostas em um questionário on-line. Os resultados obtidos sugerem que o projeto de consultoria acadêmica incentivou as alunas a se sentirem responsáveis pelo seu processo de aprendizagem, sendo possível observar um posicionamento crítico-reflexivo com relação às suas próprias necessidades e estilos de aprendizagem.
Global Burden of Tuberculosis From 1990 to 2019
Authors: Chen Yuqian , Liu Jin , Zhang Qianqian , Wang Qingting , Chai Limin , Wang Yan , Li Danyang , Qiu Yuanjie , Chen Huan , Wang Jian , Xie Xinming , Li Manxiang
Published: June 2022

Background
Tuberculosis is the most pervasive infectious diseases worldwide. Studies examining the scope, variation and influence factor of the worldwide burden of tuberculosis are lacking.
Methods
In this cross-sectional study, epidemiologic data were gathered using the Global Health Data Exchange query tool, covering persons with tuberculosis in 204 countries and 21 regions from January 1, 1990, to December 31, 2019. We estimated the incidence and age-standardized rates (ASR) on tuberculosis by age, sex, region, and country. Annual percentage change (EAPC) was used to quantify the temporal trends of ASR. We also analyzed the incidence, mortality and variation trends and influence factor of tuberculosis including drug-susceptible and drug-resistant tuberculosis from 1990 to 2019.
Results
Globally, the incident cases of tuberculosis had decreased in most part of the world from 1990 to 2019, the age-standardized incidence rates (ASIR) decreased by an average 1.63% per year. Central and Southern Sub-Saharan Africa had the highest ASIR in 2019. Globally, the number of incidents mainly appeared in 20–24 years old individuals in both genders. Nearly half of all new cases of drug-susceptible tuberculosis (DS-TB) and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis without extensive drug resistance (MDR-TB) in 2019 came from South Asia, the proportion had already exceeded nearly 50% globally. By contrast, the most incident cases of extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB) were found in Eastern Europe. As for various SDI quintiles, the high-middle SDI quintile had a highest ASIR in XDR-TB. As for morality and DALYs, South Asia had the most deaths and DALYs. The change trends of ASDR (age-standardized deaths rate) and age-standardized DALYs rate for DS-TB, MDR-TB and XDR-TB among SDI quintiles showed the same pattern as that in ASIR. We also found an overall inverse association between the ASIR of tuberculosis (and the proportion of drug-resistant tuberculosis) and SDI at the regional level.
Conclusion
Tuberculosis remained the leading cause of death from an infectious disease worldwide, and the increasing proportion of drug-resistant tuberculosis was of equal concern. The observed regional patterns varied widely, and the geographic disparities may provide support for tuberculosis health care planning and resource allocation.
Microplastics Isolated From Shellfish Paratapes undulatus From Kuala Selangor, Selangor, Malaysia
Authors: Mazlan Nurzafirah , Shukhairi Sarah Syazwani , Husin Miftahul Jannah Muhammad , Shalom Jemimah , Saud Safaa Najah , Sani Muhammad Shirwan Abdullah , Chuan Ong Meng , Mohan Naveen Kumar Naidu Chandra
Published: June 2022

Due to constant large-scale production and poor management, plastic litter have been creating serious environmental issue in recent years. These microplastics with a diameter of 5 mm and 1 µm enter the marine ecosystem and were easily ingested by marine animals which are later consumed by humans in the form of seafood. The goal of this study was to determine the types of microplastics that can be found in Paratapes undulatus in Kuala Selangor, Malaysia. A total of 30 P. undulatus samples were collected from Kuala Selangor and soft tissue were dissected and digested using NaOH. The digestate was then vacuum filtered using vacuum pump in order to obtain the microplastics. Microplastics were identified based on its physical characteristics under microscopic examination (colour, shape and size). FTIR was used to examine the functional groups of microplastics to determine the type of polymers. P. undulatus had a total of 2072 microplastics. In terms of colors and shapes, the majority of microplastics detected were black (64.48%) and fibres (97.2%). The largest abundance was found in the size ranges within 0.5 to 1 µm and 1 to 2 µm. Polystyrene (PS) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) were two microplastics polymers found. As a result, microplastics were successfully identified from P. undulatus, indicating the presence of microplastics pollution in the marine ecology. More research can be done on the toxicity and potential threats of microplastics to human when consumed as seafood.
Nonlinear Dyn manuscript No. (will be inserted by the editor)
Trajectory design with finite time properties in precision positioning maneuvers
Authors: Ibarra Efraín , Manzanilla Adrian , Castillo Pedro , Chapa Ricardo
Published: June 2022

In this paper is presented a new technique to design trajectories with finite time convergence properties for precision tracking maneuvers in unmanned vehicles. This technique allows the finite time positioning on sequentially distributed points, the properties for the trajectory guarantee to start in an initial point with velocity and acceleration zero, and position itself on the subsequent point with finite time convergence, again with velocity and acceleration zero. Such trajectory depends exclusively of the time and of the initial and last position. In addition, this technique could be used to design open loop controllers to be implemented in mobile robotics applications that require long accuracy. To show the controllers feasibility we considering the kinematic car model with finite time properties, obtaining an open loop control for the car’s velocity and steering the vehicle to desired trajectory, where simulation results present the control performance and effectiveness.
Effect of organosilicon resin containing disulfide bonds on elastic properties of cotton fabric
Authors: Wang Rong , Deng shuang , Cao Lixia , Liu Yanmei , Yang Wenyu , Min Jie , Fang Jin
Published: June 2022

Cotton fabrics are popular for their excellent properties, but their property of creasing easily largely limits the wide application of cotton fabrics. In this paper, an organosilicon resin emulsion containing disulfide bonds was prepared with epoxy-terminated silicone oil and 4,4-diaminodiphenyldisulfide (AFD) as raw materials, and it was used as a finishing agent for the elastic finishing of cotton fabrics. The effects of raw material ratio on the elastic properties of organosilicon polymer film and the effects of emulsifier dosage and emulsification time of emulsion polymerization on the properties of organosilicon resin emulsion were studied. In addition, the effects of organosilicon finishing agent dosage, baking temperature, and baking time on the elastic properties of cotton fabric were also studied. The research results show that the average particle size of the prepared organosilicon resin emulsion is about 250 nm, the particle size distribution is concentrated and the emulsion is stable. The delayed elastic recovery angle of the cotton fabric treated with an organosilicon finishing agent can reach 185°, showing excellent high delayed elasticity. At the same time, it was found that the finished cotton fabric exhibited an excellent and special temperature-responsive shape memory function based on the existence of disulfide bonds in the organosilicon polymer network structure.
High-frequency S and S-coda waves at ocean-bottom seismometers
Authors: Takemura Shunsuke , Emoto Kentato , Yamaya Lina
Published: June 2022

To clarify the characteristics of high-frequency (> 1 Hz) S and S-coda waves at ocean-bottom seismometers (OBSs), we analyzed seismograms observed at permanent OBSs and inland broadband seismometers around the Kii Peninsula in southwest Japan along the Nankai Trough. The coda amplitudes (both horizontal and vertical) at the OBSs were much larger than those at the inland rock-site stations. Because coda amplitudes relative to those at inland rock-site stations have been used as site-amplification factors, large site amplifications for both components can be expected due to the presence of thick oceanic sediments just below the OBSs; however, the observed maximum S-wave amplitudes in the vertical component exhibited similar attenuation trends against epicentral distances at both OBS and inland stations. To clarify the causes of this discrepancy, we conducted numerical simulations of seismic wave propagation using various three-dimensional seismic velocity structure models. The results demonstrated that coda waves at OBSs mostly comprise multiple scattered waves within a thick (> 2 km) sedimentary layer; consequently, coda amplitudes at OBSs become much larger than those at inland rock-site stations. However, the thick sedimentary layer has limited effects on maximum S-wave amplitudes at the OBSs. Given that the effects of a thick sedimentary layer on S and S-coda waves differ, we concluded that the coda-normalization technique for site-amplification correction cannot be applied if stations are located within regions above the thick sedimentary layer. The site amplifications at the OBSs were corrected according to the horizontal-to-vertical ratios at each OBS; we adjusted the simulated horizontal envelopes at the OBSs using these ratios of the observed S-coda waves, resulting in simulation results practically reproducing the observed high-frequency envelopes at OBSs.
Use of a Chalazion Clamp for Excision of the Eyelid Margin Lesion: A Novel Technique
Authors: He Jinjing , Jiang Jin , Bao Lulu , Gong Jingwen
Published: June 2022

Background
Reconstruction after eyelid lesion excision is very important. It calls for preserving normal eyelid function for the protection of the eye and restoring good cosmesis. It is important to precisely align the tarsal plate. However, the unique anatomy of eyelids often makes hemostasis difficult and surgical field obscured. We report an effective method to solve this problem.
Method
This retrospective study included 25 patients who had undergone eyelid margin lesion excision using the chalazion clamp between March 2020 and October 2021. The chalazion clamp is placed on the desired location and tightened, providing a bloodless field for eyelid lesion removal. Without bleeding, visibility of the cut edges is improved considerably. It makes anatomical anastomosis of the tarsal plate easier.
Results
All of the 25 patients preserve normal eyelid function and restore good cosmesis, without recurrence during the follow-up period.
Conclusion
The use of the chalazion clamp during excision of the eyelid margin lesion could stabilizes the eyelid, protects the eyeball from accidental injuryand, and provides a clear bloodless operative field. It can ensure the neatness of the cut edges and offer better incision alignment for suture. It also avoids wasting too much time on hemostasis, without additional expensive equipment.
Role of Echocardiography in the Assessment of Cardiac Involvement in Takayasu Arteritis
Authors: Fu Jiarong , Liu Jinfeng , Li Xiaoming , Wu Shan , Yu Huimei , Zhang Chun
Published: June 2022

The aim of this study is to investigate echocardiographic features of patients with cardiac involvement and evaluate the value of echocardiography in Takayasu arteritis (TA). This retrospective study compared the clinical manifestations and echocardiographic parameters of 127 TA patients with and without cardiac involvement and further explored the relationship between pulmonary hypertension (PH) and echocardiographic parameters. Clinical, imaging and laboratory results of the TA patients were obtained from hospital files. In our study, 68 patients (53.54%) had cardiac involvement. Valvular abnormalities were found in 55 (80.88%) patients in the heart involvement group, coronary artery abnormalities in 10 (14.71%), myocardial abnormalities in 18 (26.47%) and heart failure in 10 patients (14.71%), respectively. Among TA patients with cardiac involvement, PH was detected in 11 patients (16.18%) with echocardiographic assessment. Compared to the control group, both the TA patients with cardiac involvement associated with and without PH presented with the significantly differences of echocardiographic parameters regarding LAD, IVST, LVPWT, LVEDD, LVESD, LVEF, LV mass, LV mass/BSA, MPAD and E peak (P < 0.05). Compared the echocardiographic parameters between the patients with and without PH of TA patients with cardiac involvement, the differences were of no statistical significance (P > 0.05). Cardiac involvement is not infrequent in TA patients and it should be carefully evaluated. Echocardiography plays a vital role in the assessment of cardiac involvement in TA which is helpful for diagnosis and management of TA.
Co-circulation of multiple genotypes of ARV in poultry in Anhui, China
Authors: Jiang Xiaoning , Tang Yi , Diao Youxiang
Published: June 2022

Background: Poultry production in China has been experiencing a high incidence of broiler arthritis /tenosynovitis caused by avian orthoreovirus (ARV) since 2013. In the spring of 2020 severe arthritis cases from broiler flocks were identified in large-scale commercial poultry company in Anhui Province, China. Methods: Diseased organ from dead birds were sent for diagnosis to our laboratory. ARV, including seven broiler-isolates and two breeder-isolates, was successfully harvested and sequenced. Results: Interestingly, the genotypes of ARVs isolated from infected chickens were inconsistent between different flocks or even between different houses on the same flocks. Subsequently, a total of 89.66 per cent sera samples collected from apparently healthy adult broiler flocks unvaccinated against ARV tested positive for ARV antibodies, suggesting that low and high virulence reovirus strains may be co-circulating in the farm. To this end, we collected unhatched embryos from breeders (parental generation) for pathogen tracing, the two harvested ARV breeder-isolates indicated that the factor of vertical transmission from breeders to progeny should not be underestimated for the prevalence of ARV within broiler flocks. Conclusion: The findings have implications for evidenced-based formulation of prevention and control strategies.
Body mass index-associated lncRNAs and their roles in lung cancer
Authors: Fu Xiaoying , Huang Qinmiao , Lin Yancheng , Ling Lin , Ho Kuoting
Published: June 2022

Background:
Obesity often increases the risk of cancer and worsens the prognosis. Unlike most types of cancer, obesity and lung cancer displayed a mixed relationship. Several studies concluded that obesity had an inverse impact on incidents of lung cancer and benefited the overall survival, with few underlying mechanisms understood. Obesity-related and adipocytes-derived lncRNAs had been reported to deregulate the cancer-associated pathways. Here we conducted this study to identify the potential BMI-associated lncRNAs and their roles in lung cancer.
Methods:
We identified the BMI-associated lncRNAs from the Clinical Proteomic Tumor Analysis Consortium (CPTAC) lung study, with additional analyses of their relationship with lung cancer, impact on overall survival, and potential pathways involved. In addition, we carried out the validation in local peripheral blood samples from 4 groups, including healthy, obese, lung cancer patients with obesity, and lung cancer patients with normal BMI.
Results:
We identified four BMI-associated lncRNAs which potentially impacting tumor progression and cancer survival. MTORC1 and MYC were among the top pathways enriched from these lncRNAs. We further validated that TM4SF19-AS1 showed a significant difference between lung cancer patients with obesity and with normal BMI in peripheral blood.
Conclusions:
Our findings suggested that BMI-associated lncRNAs could potentially regulate cancer-related pathways and immune response in lung cancer. The lncRNA validated in peripheral blood could serve as biomarkers to monitor cancer progression.
Impact of nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) and platelet rich fibrin (PRF) on senescence in spontaneously aging and irradiated human osteoblasts
Authors: Hakim Samer G. , Gracht Anij , Pries Ralph , Rades Dirk , Steller Daniel
Published: June 2022

With the increasing human lifespan, bone aging and related pathologies increasingly contribute to the musculo-skelettal homeostasis, and senescence related osteoblasts disorders are supposed to play a key role in osteoporosis, osteonecrosis and bone remodeling diseases. Only limited studies have elucidated the histomorphological and molecular changes in senescent human osteoblasts (OBs) and their potential treatment.In the present study we investigated the cellular changes induced by spontaneous inherent as well as radiation-induced senescence in OBs and the impact of addition cultivation with nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) and platelet rich fibrin (PRF) on apoptosis, senescence-associated β-galactosidase staining and senescence related gene expression using RT2 Profiler PCR array. We found that OBs alteration through spontaneous inherent aging follows a different pathway than that of radiation-induced cellular senescence. Both NMN and PRF seem to provide a senescence and radioprotective effect on human OBs, albeit by different mechanisms. These results provide evidence on the potential clinical implication of systematic NMN administration and local PRF application to prevent age-related bone disturbance in elderly patients.
Observation of a robust and highly active catalyst for water electrolysis under the current density of 1000 mA cm-2
Authors: Zhang Yudi , Arpino Kathryn , Yang Qun , Kikugawa Naoki , Sokolov Dmitry , Hicks Clifford , Liu Jian , Felser Claudia , Li Guowei
Published: June 2022

Despite the fruitful achievements in the development of hydrogen production catalysts with record-breaking performances, there is still a lack of durable catalysts that could work under large current densities (> 1000 mA cm− 2). In the context of this need, we investigated the catalytic behaviors of Sr2RuO4 (SRO) bulk single crystals with well-defined surface crystal structures, which is a benchmark material to explore exotic metallic states and electronic structures. This single crystal has demonstrated remarkable activities under the current density of 1000 mA cm− 2, which require overpotentials of 182 and 278 mV in 0.5 M H2SO4 and 1 M KOH electrolytes, respectively, after ohmic correction. These values slightly increased to 272 and 354 mV even without iR correction, exhibiting high potential for industrial-scale hydrogen production. The high performance is also evidenced by the 56 days of continuous testing at a high current density of above 1000 mA cm− 2 and then under operating temperatures of 70 ℃ for alkaline electrolysis. The in-situ formation of ferromagnetic Ru clusters at the crystal surface is critical for the outstanding catalytic activity, endowing the single-crystal catalyst with low charge transfer resistance and high wettability for rapid gas bubble removal. Density functional theory calculations indicate that SRO gains electrons from the Ru clusters, thus leading to the thermodynamically favorable hydrogen desorption for the rapidly modified catalysts. More generally, our experiment exemplifies the potential of designing novel HER catalysts that work under industrial-scale current density.
Design and Psychometrics of the Sexual-Reproductive Needs and Concerns Scale of Iranian Never-Married Women Over 35
Authors: Taghizadeh Ziba , Ebadi Abbas , Shahrak Shakiba Pourasad , Brand Serge
Published: June 2022

Background: In traditional cultures, never-married women over 35 have to face a broad variety of social challenges. So far, no tool has been developed to measure the needs and concerns of these women. The purpose of the present study was to design the Farsi Scale of Sexual-Reproductive Needs and Concerns of never-married women over 35 and to assess its psychometric properties.Methods: The combined exploratory study had two phases. In the first phase, we performed a qualitative study. We interviewed never-married Iranian women over 35; next, from their descriptions, we extracted specific items, and these items were aggregated to form items of a questionnaire. To psychometrically validate the questionnaire, we tested the validity (face, content, and structure) and reliability (internal consistency and stability) of the questionnaire. For evaluating the structural validity, a cross-sectional study of 240 never-married women over the age of 35 completed the questionnaire. Results: The Sexual-Reproductive Needs and Concerns Scale of Iranian Never-Married Women over 35 was developed with 15 items and three dimensions (Emotional burden; Sexual needs; Stigma). Cronbach's alpha of the instrument was 0.81 and the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient was 0.98. Conclusion: The results of the study showed that the developed scale has acceptable validity and reliability, and thus can be used to assess the sexual-reproductive needs and concerns of never-married Iranian women over 35.
Longitudinal angiographic characterization of the efficacy of combined cerebral revascularization using encephalodurosynangiosis in patients with Moyamoya Disease
Authors: Lucia Kristin , Acker Güliz , Mrosk Friedrich , Beyaztas Defne , Vajkoczy Peter
Published: June 2022

Background: Moyamoya Vasculopathy (MMV) can be treated using direct, indirect, or combined revascularization procedures. We perform combined revascularization using the STA-MCA bypass and minimally invasive encephalodurosynangiosis (EDS). Due to lack of systematic analyses to date it remains unclear whether and to which extent this limited EDS serves as a growth source for extracerebral blood vessels into the brain. The objective of the current study is to characterize the extent of angiographic filling of EDS and STA-MCA bypass development over time and to determine possible predictors of EDS development in adult MMV patients. Methods: Single-center retrospective analysis of 81 MMV patients (139 hemispheres) treated with a minimally invasive EDS and STA-MCA bypass. Angiographic images, clinical/operative data were reviewed and scored. Uni-/ and multivariate COX-regression analyses identified preoperative predictors of good EDS vascularization. Results: At 3-6 months after surgery EDS showed moderate and high angiographic filling in 40% and 5% of hemispheres, respectively. After 12 months moderate and high filling was in 57% and 4% of hemispheres, respectively. STA-MCA bypass filling was moderate in 47% and high in 7% of hemispheres at 3-6 months and 45% moderate and 9% high after 12 months. High STA-MCA bypass filling on angiography was a negative predictor of EDS development.Conclusions:Minimally invasive EDS is a simple technique and serves as a source of vessel growth into the brain. EDS development lags behind that of STA-MCA bypass and can be recommended as an additive revascularization source when combined with a direct bypass.
The role of the assembly force in the tribocorrosion behaviour of hip implant head-neck junctions: An adaptive finite element approach
Authors: Fallahnezhad Khosro , Feyzi Mohsen , Hashemi Reza , Taylor Mark
Published: June 2022

The cyclic loading, in the corrosive medium of the human body, results in tribocorrosion, at the interface of the head neck taper junction of hip implants. The resulting metal ions and wear debris can have adverse effects on the local tissues. The force applied by surgeons to assemble the head-neck junction is proven to play a major role in the mechanics of the taper junction which in turn can influence the tribocorrosion damage. Recently, finite element method has been used to predict the material loss at the head-neck interface. However, in most previous finite element studies, the contribution of electrochemical corrosion has been ignored. Therefore, a detailed study to investigate the influence of the assembly force on the tribocorrosive behaviour of the head-neck junction, taking into account both the mechanical and chemical material removal, is of paramount interest. In this study, a finite-element-based algorithm was used to investigate the effect of assembly force on the tribocorrosion damage at the junction interface over 4 million cycles of simulated level gait. The patterns of the material removal in the modelling results were compared with the damage patterns observed in a group of retrieved modular hip implants. The results of this study showed that chemical wear, after four million cycles, for different cases, was in the range of 25%-32% of the total material loss. A minimum assembly force (4 kN for the studied cases) is needed to maintain the interlock in the junction. Increasing the assembly force above this value does not further reduce the material loss. The computational model was able to predict the damage pattern at the retrieved head-neck interface.
Chironomus sancticaroli (Diptera: Chironomidae) in ecotoxicology: laboratory cultures and tests
Authors: Brovini Emília Marques , Lobo Haroldo , Mendonça Raquel Fernandes , Botta Clarice Maria R , Lima Ana Luiza Rangel Linhares , De Deus Beatriz Corrêa Thomé , Cardoso Simone Jaqueline
Published: June 2022

Chironomus sancticaroli is a species restricted to tropical environments, easy to grow and to maintain in laboratory cultures. C. sancticaroli usually has many generations per year, which is an important criteria for selecting a test organism in ecotoxicology. This study aimed to: (1) review the methods for C. sancticaroli cultivate and its use in ecotoxicological tests, (2) establish a laboratory culture of C. sancticaroli, presenting the difficulties and discussing the ways to overcome them. The 4th instar larvae was the most used in acute studies, while the 1st instar larvae was the most used in chronic studies; 96 hours and 28 days were the most frequent durations in acute and chronic studies, respectively. The most common endpoints evaluated were organisms’ survival and development, and most of the ecotoxicological studies using C. sancticaroli were performed in laboratory. Most of the tested contaminants were of the group of pesticides and these were also the ones that had the most adverse effects on organisms. Most mesocosms with environmental contaminated samples did not show adverse effects on C. sancticaroli. Chronic and field studies as well as those testing the effects of the mixture contaminants on C. sancticaroli were still deficient. Keeping the laboratory environment and equipment effectively sanitized was important for the success of the cultivate as well as maintain stabilized conditions of temperature, photoperiod, physical, chemical and biological water quality in cultures.
DeepCOVIDNet: COVID-19 Detection of Chest Image Using Deep Learning Model
Authors: Sagayam K. Martin , Das Puja , Jamader Asik Rahaman , Acharya Biswa Ranjan , Bonyah Ebenezer , Elngar Ahmed A.
Published: June 2022

CoronaViruses (CoV) are significant human and creature pathogens. It is risky contamination that may cause Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV), and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV). Clinical examinations have indicated that most COVID-19 patients experience the ill effects of lung disease. In spite of that, chest CT has been demonstrated to be a viable imaging strategy for lung-related illness analysis, chest X-ray is all the more generally accessible because of its quicker vision schedule and significantly less expensive CT. The main objective of this paper is to propose an efficient deep transfer learning algorithm for Covid-19 recognition in the chest using a 2D x-ray. DeepCOVID-Net to help radiology technicians consequently analyze COVID-19 in X-beams. To assess the model gassing, to gather hundred chest X-beam images of various victims affirmed by COVID-19 from GitHub repository and Kaggle. The dataset primarily consists of two classes: covid and normal. The proposed model (DeepCOVID-Net) is utilizing eight deep learning models that were chosen in this exploration for the training process. These are VGG19, DenseNet121, ResNetV2, InceptionV3, InceptionResNetV2, Xception, GoogleNet and MobileNetV2. Utilizing pre-trained deep transfer learning models shows effective performance metrics for each and every model. This paper explored the performance metrics of the proposed work with the existing neural network model.
Metadichol, A natural ligand for expression of Yamanaka reprogramming factors in somatic and primary cancer cell lines
Authors: Raghavan P.R.
Published: June 2022

The conversion of somatic cells back into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) or embryonic-like stem cells involves the introduction of four genes commonly called Yamanaka factors, i.e., Sox2, Oct4, Klf4, and c-Myc, into the cells. Because these genes and the viral vectors used to introduce them into cells have the potential to cause cancer, iPSC lines are not clinically useful. Most instances of direct reprogramming have achieved have been by the forced expression of defined factors using viral vectors. Here, we show that Metadichol® has the potential to generate iPSCs non-virally and may be helpful in clinical applications. Metadichol is a nanoformulation of long-chain alcohols derived from food. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and western blotting showed that OCT4, SOX2, and Nanog are expressed when fibroblasts were treated with Metadichol at one picogram to 100 nanograms. Reverse-transcription PCR (RT-PCR) also revealed that OCT4, KLF4, Nanog, and Sox2 levels increased compared to controls by 4.01, 3.51 and 1.26, and 2.5-fold, respectively, in A549 cancer cells. In Colo-205 cells, OCT4, KLF4, and Sox2 were increased by 1.79, 13.17, and 2.25folds, respectively. Metadichol treatment with triple-negative primary breast cancer (HCAF-TNPBC) primary cancer cells led to multifold increases of OKSM factors by 19.6, 8.07, 2.45, and 6.91, folds increase in Metadichol concentration ranges one picogram to 100 nano grams. Metadichol is a natural product that induces the expression of Yamanaka factors needed for reprogramming and Klotho, an anti-aging gene, and curbs the expression of the TP53 gene, which is critical for reprogramming somatic cells into IPSCs.Metadichol increases endogenous vitamin C levels, leading to the efficient reprogramming of somatic cells into iPSCs. Metadichol is nontoxic and commercially available as a nutritional supplement. Thus, it can be directly tested in vivo in human subjects to confirm that cells can indeed be programmed into a state of induced pluripotency and cause the mitigation of disease conditions.
E-FEERP: Enhanced Fuzzy based Energy Efficient Routing Protocol for Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: NARAYAN VIPUL , Daniel A.K. , Chaturvedi Pooja
Published: June 2022

Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) comprises thousands of tiny sensor nodes used in various monitoring applications to sense environmental conditions. WSN collects and organizes the sensed data and transmits to the Base Station (BS). Due to the limited battery energy of sensor nodes, optimal data collection and transmission techniques are necessary for the prolonged working of the sensor network. The Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) method is used in this paper to form the cluster in WSN and a Fuzzy based Energy Efficient Routing Protocol (E-FEERP) is proposed using energy of battery, average distance SN from BS, node density and communication quality to transmit data from Cluster Head (CH) to the BS optimally. The simulation results of the proposed E-FEERP is compared with the existing approaches, which show an improvement in the network performance-based parameters such as throughput, residual energy (RE), load balancing ratio and packet delivery ratio, energy consumption and network lifetime.
Assessment of sex and racial biases in electronic health records of emergency department patients with acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Zeng Cecilia , Xiang Wang , Allen Angier , Shokouhi Sepideh , Chetty Satish Casie , Barnes Gina , Iqbal Zohora , Tsou Peiling , Calvert Jacob , Hoffman Jana , Mao Qingqing
Published: June 2022

Background
Electronic health records (EHRs) contain individualized patient data that can be used to develop diagnostic and risk prediction models with artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms. Explicit and implicit sources of bias embedded in EHRs may hinder generalizable model performance and perpetuate bias.
Objective
This study explores the question of how existing sex and racial disparities in the clinical assessment and management of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) are reflected in patients’ EHRs. We outlined recommendations on how these sources of bias should be examined and mitigated within the framework of development and validation of AI-based diagnosis and risk stratification algorithms.
Methods
This retrospective study examined several previously unrecognized EHR-embedded biases in a multisite emergency departments (ED) setting. We assessed sex and race differences in EHR data missingness and timeliness of several key ED procedures following ACS suspicion. We additionally conducted a data-driven clustering analysis to detect latent groups of ACS patients.
Results
10,043 ACS-associated ED visits were included. We identified sex and race differences in the prevalence of ACS symptoms, data missingness (vitals and labs), and waiting time for troponin order and treatment initiation within 24 hours post-admission. Our cluster analysis discovered four groups of ACS patients corresponding to common symptoms. Additionally, we identified differences in clinical management and patient demographics across these clusters.
Conclusions
We discovered several sources of bias inherent in the clinical practice of ACS diagnosis and treatment that are also present in EHR data. Our study supports the inclusion of a wider range of symptoms into AI-based diagnosis and risk stratification tools. These models should be also validated in ED admissions without chest pain and in patients who experience a longer waiting time for ED procedures.
Analyzing the Effects of the Dwelling Characteristics on the Space Heating Costs with Bayesian Networks
Authors: Sevinç Volkan
Published: June 2022

Energy is one of the main concerns of humanity because energy resources are limited and costly. Hence, effective use of energy is important. In order to reduce the costs and to use the energy for space heating effectively, new building materials, techniques and insulations facilities are being developed. Therefore, it is important to know which factors affect the space heating costs. This study aims to introduce the use of Bayesian networks to analyze the effects of dwelling characteristics on the space heating costs. The Bayesian Network model shows that the space heating costs of the dwellings are mostly affected by the heating systems used. The second important factor appears to be the existence of external wall insulation. The third most important factor, however, is the building age. Additionally, dwellings on the ground floors and on the first floors appear to pay the highest space heating costs. On the other hand, dwelling type and facing direction seem not to have a considerable effect on the space heating costs.
The Governance Of Arzew Port: Between The Pressure Of An Economic Challenge And The Creation Of Public Value
Authors: Fouad M. Korbaa , Ibtissem Mrs Gadi
Published: June 2022

Algeria is oriented towards the promotion of non-hydrocarbon exports. The value of this enterprise is due to reach five billion dollars in 2021.This new economic policy should rely on the dynamic of ports platforms. The port is a complex organisation similar to a network company, it is an implantation location for companies concerned with optimizing their import/export operations. The port of Arzew is a main gateway for Algerian exports. For non-hydrocarbons, Customs notes that five products exported to western Algeria totaled more than 75% of non-hydrocarbon exports. These are mineral or chemical nitrogen fertilizers (urea), anhydrous ammonia oils, finished products from the steel industry, cement and others. Today, ports must be exemplary in terms of governance policy, installation, infrastructure and logistical tools. Certainly, a new role is taking shape and imposing itself on the port authority, its new functions are described as ‘new governance agenda’. This concerns its role, which is called upon to contribute with other actors in all areas (environmental, economic, social, territorial, etc.). Increasingly, ports have become creators of public value. This concept is closely linked to the establishment of collaborative governance because of the importance of stakeholders. public value is the result of the coordination of different actors-networks, with this in mind, authors insist on making the link between public action and the stakeholders by clarifying the objectives and purposes of the public products and services that must include the production of value not only for the individuals directly affected but also for the communities concerned. Nowadays, ports must be exemplary in terms of governance policy, installation, infrastructure and logistical tools. The objective of our research is to examine the governance in place in supporting non-hydrocarbon exports in a Algeria west region. The approach pursued in this work is based on the applicability of a model of the creation of public value or ‘network governance’. The results obtained have made it possible to highlight the positive impact of port facilities on exports, while the governance in place is of capital importance.
Study on fluid-structure interaction vibration characteristics of absorber feed tank based on micro vibration monitoring
Authors: Song Bo , Lu Chenhu , Li Bang , Wang Peng , Chen Naigang
Published: June 2022

Absorber feed tank (AFT tower) is a kind of reinforced concrete structure supported steel tank. It is a composite structure used for desulfurization and cleaning in power industry. A large amount of slurry is sumped in the steel tank, and oxidation air is blown into the tank through a pipe to impact the slurry surface, then the agitator vibrates and disturbs the slurry in the tank. The structure has obvious vibration in daily operation, which is not conducive to the safety of the structure, but also brings greater psychological burden to the staff. Therefore, field monitoring and numerical simulation analysis are carried out for the AFT tower. The field investigation of AFT tower is also carried out. The video monitoring and local monitoring are used to monitor the AFT tower, and the corresponding laws of vibration are explored. A simplified simulation method for this kind of structure is proposed. The model is established with the aid of the fluid structure coupling function of ADINA finite element analysis software to study the vibration characteristics of AFT tower. The results show that the motion trajectory of AFT tower can be determined quickly by video monitoring. The local monitoring can demonstrate that the effect of mixer is the main factor of structural vibration, and the blowing in of oxidation wind intensifies the structural vibration response, resulting in different degrees of damage to the infilled wall between the columns of the structure. By comparing the numerical simulation results with the monitoring results, the reliability of the simplified model is verified, which provides a reference for analyzing the vibration response, damage mechanism and reinforcement design of this kind of structure.