bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the impact of local properties of 3D data on the accuracy of block matching-based speckle tracking echocardiography
Authors: Cygan Szymon , Wilczewska Aleksandra , Kubik Tomasz , Alessandrini Martino
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Due to its simplicity, block-matching is a popular motion-tracking method used in speckle-tracking echocardiography. Improvement of its robustness and accuracy is thus of prime interest. Although it seems plausible that the quality of block matching-based tracking depends on the local properties of image data, and thus, it should be possible to assess in advance how well certain portions of the image data are suited for displacement estimation, the potential relationship has not been studied extensively.

Material and methods: This study aimed to search for a relationship between selected features of echocardiographic data and the quality of local displacement estimation. The study used a 3D synthetic B-mode imaging sequence data with known ground truth. Frame-to-frame displacements were estimated for 9856 points in five different frame pairs with mean inter-frame displacements of 0.15, 0.87, 2, 3.02, and 3.84 mm. In each case, tracking errors were evaluated against thirteen grayscale image features, the displacement’s magnitudes, and the normalized cross-correlation (NCX) values. Additionally, a multi-variable regression model was applied to test the combined ability of the proposed features to predict tracking quality.

Results: Median tracking error magnitudes were 0.06, 0.13, 0.28, 0.74, and 1.5 mm for each image pair. Weak correlation between errors and individual data features was found only in the case of 3 features: NCX (Pearson’s correlation coefficients in the range of −0.366 to −0.223), number of speckles within the kernel (−0.283, −0.282, and −0.214 for three lowest deformations) and mean of the 3D gradient (−0.252, −0.237 and −0.25). The regression model, however, provided significant prediction improvement with R2 exceeding 0.5.

Conclusions: In conclusion, only a weak relationship between the individual investigated kernel features and tracking accuracy has been established, but their combined strength can be assessed as at least moderate.
Commissioning, dosimetric characterisation and machine performance assessment of the AQURE mobile accelerator for intraoperative radiotherapy
Authors: Ryczkowski Adam , Pawałowski Bartosz , Kruszyna-Mochalska Marta , Misiarz Agnieszka , Lenartowicz-Gasik Aleksandra , Wosicki Maksymilian , Jodda Agata , Adrich Przemysław , Piotrowski Tomasz
Published: October 2024

Introduction: The AQURE is a recently designed mobile linear accelerator for intraoperative electron radiotherapy (IOERT). In the study, we assess, report, and compare the dosimetric characteristics obtained during the commissioning of this machine in our Centre.

Material and Methods: The electron energies of the AQURE used in this study are 4, 6, 9 and 12 MeV. The diameters of the cylindrically shaped applicators range from 4 to 10 cm. The measurements were performed (a) by microDiamond detector in a BeamScan water phantom (depth dose distributions, flatness and symmetry of dose profiles, output constancy and linearity) and (b) by Farmer ionisation chamber in a solid water phantom (output related to gantry angle). The results of measurements were compared to analogous results from other IOERT accelerators and were evaluated in the light of scientific recommendations and legal regulations.

Results: The values of the measured parameters fit the recommended ranges. The profiles and the depth dose distributions are close to literature data for other IOERT machines. Any differences between them are caused by the detailed technical solutions which influence the final shape of the obtained dose distributions. The values of mean and most probable energies suggest that the electron beams used during IOERT cannot be considered mono-energetic. We believe that the energy spectrum should be researched and described for each IOERT mobile accelerator before clinical usage. Conclusion: The measurements confirm the dosimetric accuracy of the AQURE accelerator under the literature guidelines.
Posterior interosseous nerve lesion due to lipoma. Review of the literature and rare case presentation
Authors: Rojc Bojan , Golob Peter
Published: October 2024

Background

Posterior interosseous nerve lesion is a rare mononeuropathy of the upper limb. Atraumatic posterior interosseous nerve lesions are commonly caused by lipomas of the forearm, manifesting as slow-progressing wrist and finger drop.

Patients and methods

In this review and case report study, we present a systematic review of the literature for patients presenting with posterior interosseous palsy due to lipomas and a rare case of patient with acute posterior interosseous nerve lesion caused by a lipoma. Our primary interest was in the timing of clinical presentation. For the review process, we followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines.

Results

After reviewing the literature, we identified thirty patients with posterior interosseous nerve lesions caused by lipomas. In 28 patients, the symptoms presented progressively, ranging from 1 month to a maximum of 240 months. We found only one case of a patient with acute presentation and another patient with acute worsening of chronic weakness due to trauma.

Conclusions

Atraumatic posterior interosseous nerve lesions are frequently secondary to forearm lipomas. In the majority of cases, the symptoms will develope progressively. However, in this study, we also report a rare case of a patient presenting with acute posterior interosseous nerve lesion due to a lipoma.
Assessment of chemical-shift and diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging in differentiating malignant and benign vertebral lesions in oncologic patients. A single institution experience
Authors: Mijaljevic Marija B , Milosevic Zorica C , Lavrnic Slobodan Đ , Jokovic Zorica M , Ninkovic Danica I , Tubic Radoje M , Jankovic Rajna R
Published: October 2024

Background

To analyze the contribution of two non-standard magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques the chemical-shift image (CSI), and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in distinguishing malignant and benign vertebral bone marrow lesions (VBMLs).

Patients and methods

Conventional spine MRI protocol, followed by CSI and DWI was performed with a 1.5 T system on 102 oncologic patients between January 2020 and December 2023. From the identified 325 VBMLs, 102 representative lesions (one per patient) were selected. VBMLs were divided into malignant (n = 74) and benign (n = 28) based on histopathology, or imaging follow-up. The quantitative parameters for VBMLs assessment were signal intensity ratio (SIR) derived from CSI and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) derived from DWI.

Results

The malignant VBMLs had significantly higher SIR values (p < 0.05) and lower ADC values compared to benign VBMLs (p < 0.05). The area under the curve (AUC) was 0.953 (p < 0.001) for SIR, and 0.894 for ADC (p < 0.001) (cut-off at > 0.82, and ≤ 1.57x10−3 mm2/s, respectively). The sensitivity and specificity for SIR were 93.6%, and 88.5%, while for ADC were 88.2% and 92.3% (respectively). The combined use of SIR and ADC improved the diagnostic accuracy to AUC of 0.988 (p < 0.001, cut-off at > 0.19), sensitivity, and specificity of 100.0% and 90.9% (respectively).

Conclusions

Quantitative parameters, SIR and ADC, derived from two non-standard MRI techniques, CSI, and DWI, showed diagnostic strength in differentiating malignant and benign VBMLs. Combining both methods can further enhance the diagnostic performance and accuracy of spine MRI in clinical practice.
Characteristics of exposure to radioactive iodine during a nuclear incident
Authors: Zaletel Katja , Mihovec Anamarija , Gaberscek Simona
Published: October 2024

Background

During a nuclear accident, numerous products of nuclear fission are released, including isotopes of radioactive iodine. Among them is iodine-131, with a half-life of 8.02 days, which emits β radiation. For decades, it has been effectively and safely used in medicine. However, in the event of a nuclear accident, uncontrolled exposure can have harmful biological effects. The main sources of internal contamination with iodine-131 are contaminated air, food and water. The most exposed organ is the thyroid gland, where radioactive iodine accumulates via the Na+/I− symporter (NIS). NIS does not distinguish between radioactive iodine isotopes and the stable isotope iodine-127, which is essential for the synthesis of thyroid hormones. Exposure to radioactive iodine during a nuclear accident is primarily associated with papillary thyroid cancer, whose incidence begins to increase a few years after exposure. Children and adolescents are at the highest risk, and the risk is particularly significant for individuals living in iodine-deficient areas.

Conclusions

Ensuring an adequate iodine supply is therefore crucial for lowering the risk of the harmful effects of exposure to radioactive iodine at the population level. Protecting the thyroid with potassium iodide tablets significantly reduces radiation exposure, as stable iodine prevents the entry of radioactive iodine into the thyroid. Such protection is effective only within a narrow time window - a few hours before and after the exposure and is recommended only for those under 40 years of age, as the risks of excessive iodine intake outweigh the potential benefits in older individuals.
Idarubicin-loaded drug-eluting microspheres transarterial chemoembolization for intermediate stage hepatocellular carcinoma: safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics
Authors: Korsic Spela , Osredkar Josko , Smid Alojz , Steblovnik Klemen , Popovic Mark , Locatelli Igor , Trontelj Jurij , Popovic Peter
Published: October 2024

Background

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is the treatment of choice for the intermediate stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Doxorubicin remains the most used chemotherapeutic agent in TACE, although in vitro screening has demonstrated that idarubicin exhibits greater cytotoxicity against HCC. This study aimed to evaluate safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics of idarubicin-loaded drug-eluting microspheres TACE (DEMIDA-TACE) in intermediate stage HCC patients.

Patients and methods

Between September 2019 and December 2021, 31 consecutive intermediate stage HCC patients (96.8% cirrhotic) were included to this study. 2 mL of LifePearl™ microspheres (100 μm) loaded with 10 mg of 1 mg/mL idarubicin were used for treatment. The adverse events, objective response rate (ORR), progression free survival (PFS), time to TACE untreatable progression (TTUP), median overall survival (mOS), and pharmacokinetics were evaluated.

Results

There were 68 TACE procedures performed. Adverse events grade ≥ 3 were noted after 29.4% procedures. The ORR was 83.9%, median PFS and TTUP were 10.5 months (95% CI: 6.8–14.3 months) and 24.6 months (95% CI: 11.6–37.6 months), respectively. Median OS was 36.0 months (95% CI: 21.1–50.9 months). Significant differences between patients achieving objective response (OR) and those with progressive disease were observed regarding idarubicinol and combined idarubicin-idarubicinol plasma concentrations at 72 hours post-procedure, higher plasma concentrations were observed in patients achieving OR (p = 0.014 and 0.014; cut-off values 1.2 and 1.29 ng/mL, respectively).

Conclusions

DEMIDA-TACE emerges as a safe and effective method of treatment for the intermediate stage HCC with low rates of adverse events alongside high tumor response, favourable disease control and overall survival. Idarubicinol and combined idarubicin-idarubicinol plasma concentrations at 72 hours post-procedure may serve as prognostic factors for achieving OR.
Settlement Analysis of the Nivy Tower in Bratislava by the Finite Element Method
Authors: Chalmovský Juraj , Červenka Jan , Dobrovolský Ján , Račanský Václav
Published: October 2024

A settlement analysis of a new high-rise building, the Nivy Tower, in Bratislava, Slovakia, is presented in this paper. A 3D finite element model was prepared. A non-linear elasto-plastic material model with double hardening and increased stiffness in a small-to-very-small strain range was adopted for the Tertiary (Neogene) subsoils. Due to the lack of an appropriate in-situ test, the results from a 1D compression test were used for the calibration of the soil input parameters. However, the results from these tests, especially in the primary loading, are often biased due to the effects of soil disturbance during the preparation of the sample. Therefore, a different procedure has been proposed, in which the stiffness parameters were obtained from unloading-reloading branches of 1D compression tests. It could be concluded that the predicted and measured settlements are in a reasonable match for all the points measured. The computed distributions of the vertical displacements and those measured by sliding micrometres show greater differences from a depth of twenty meters beneath the foundation slab.
Assessment of Competencies in University Laboratory Practice
Authors: Jiménez Pilar García , Acosta Marina Carrasco , Santos Milagros Rico
Published: October 2024

Objective: The aim of this work is to evaluate the achievement of the competences linked to the laboratory practices of two subjects by means of the inverted classroom pedagogical model. The subjects involved are Organic Chemistry (QO) and Biology and Biochemistry (BB) of the Degree in Chemical Engineering of the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC).
 
Theoretical Framework: Laboratory experimentation facilitates the understanding of theoretical concepts that require abstract thinking skills.
 
Method: The student prepares the laboratory practices autonomously by means of manuals, videos, etc., and solves questionnaires before and after the face-to-face sessions.
 
Results and Discussion: Students achieve or improve competencies within the academic year by learning the dynamics of the subjects. They make an effort according to the weight of the activity in their evaluation and show difficulty in using conceptual reasoning. They show a high degree of compliance in doing the previous work (between 93 and 78% of the participants always comply) and high satisfaction with the methodology and with what they have learned (4.57 and 4.75 on a 5-point Likert scale).
 
Research Implications: The activities designed to assess the acquisition of competencies common to both subjects are appropriate. The flipped classroom model fosters student autonomy and confidence in the laboratory.
 
Originality/Value: The inverted classroom model contributes to improve students' autonomy and confidence in the laboratory. This model is applied in two different subjects at different levels (second and third year), but to the same students.
Respostas e aplicabilidade do treinamento intervalado em indicadores fisiológicos de saúde: Revisão Integrativa
Authors: Aparecida de Souza Ribeiro Aline , Pereira dos Santos Marcelo , Brown Amanda , Sant'Ana Leandro
Published: October 2024

Introdução: O treinamento intervalado (TI) tem um alto nível de versatilidade, pois esse método de treinamento permite respostas relevantes em adaptações fisiológicas e mecânicas. Objetivos: Destacar alguns pontos importantes sobre o TI nos parâmetros fisiológicos de saúde e sua aplicabilidade, usando diferentes estratégias desse método, baseado em estudos já existentes. Metodologia: Esta mini revisão foi desenvolvida seguindo recomendações científicas específicas. No critério de busca e seleção dos estudos, foram utilizadas estratégias com combinações de palavras-chave relacionadas ao tema do trabalho, onde os mesmos foram encontrados nos bancos de dados científicos Pubmed e Web of Science.  Resultados e discussão: A presente revisão demonstrou, de forma resumida, que o TI pode promover melhorias em alguns indicadores fisiológicos de saúde, como a função cardiometabólica, cardiorrespiratória, hemodinâmica e autonômica. Além disso, alguns mecanismos que influenciam essas funcionalidades foram expostos para entender a importância do TI nas prescrições de exercícios físicos. Conclusão: Podemos concluir que o TI pode ser usado para melhorar os indicadores fisiológicos de saúde de indivíduos de diferentes idades.
Failure of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor in a patient with Kostmann syndrome
Authors: Hazar Volkan , Ongun Hakan , Yeşilipek M. Akif , Yeğin Olcay
Published: October 2024

We present a seven-month-old boy referred to our hospital with a history of recurrent suppurative infections starting in his neonatal period. Anemia, absolute neutropenia absolute neutrophil count (ANC: 500 cells/pl), pneumonia, purulent otitis media and maturational arrest of granulocytes at promyelocyte-myelocyte level in bone marrow were detected on his admission. He was diagnosed as Kostmann syndrome and recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (rhG-CSF) therapy was started at a dose of 10 pg/kg/d, gradually increasing up to 120 pg/kg/d in sequential seven-day courses. As there was no response, rhG-CSF was stopped and recombinant human granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (rhGM-CSF) was started subcutaneously with 2.5 pg/kg/d and was escalated by doubling the dose every seven days to 20 mg/kg/d. By this therapy absolute neutrophil count (ANC) transiently reached above 500 cells/pf, but eosinophilia developed with a total white cell count of 88.200 cells/pl, and a differential count showing 86 percent eosinophils. Since eosinophilia of this magnitude has deleterious effects, and neutrophil production did not significantly increase, we tried combined therapy with rhG-CSF and rhGM-CSF at doses of 10-20 pg/kg/d and 5-10 pg/kg/d, respectively, without any effect on absolute neutrophil count. The patient succumbed from sepsis eight months after the diagnosis.
Late infantile acid maltase deficiency: a case report
Authors: Çalışkan Mine , Yılmaz Yüksel , Serdaroğlu Piraye , Aydınlı Nur , Özmen Meral
Published: October 2024

A five-year-old boy with late-infantile (juvenile) form of acid maltase deficiency is presented. His symptoms were restricted to skeletal muscle. There is commonly a correlation between the amount of residual acid maltase activity and the severity of the clinical picture. Although the residual enzyme level was very low in our patient, no progression of his neurological findings have been observed during the follow-up period of two years.
The split notochord syndrome with dorsal enteric fistula, meningomyelocele and imperforate anus
Authors: Dindar Hüseyin , Kanmaz Turan , Çakmak Murat , Savaş Çağrı , Yücesan Selçuk
Published: October 2024

A male infant was referred to our department because of lumbosacral meningomyelocele, dorsal enteric fistula and imperforate anus. The mother had received a parenteral drug containing estradiol benzoate and progesterone for inducing abortion in the first trimester. She also used an anal pomade containing triamcinolone and lidocaine-HCI during the pregnancy for hemorrhoids.
Sigmoid end colostomy was performed after meningomyelocele repair. On abdominal exploration a wandering spleen was detected but no other anomalies. Two months later, an abdominoperineal pullthrough was performed, and the patient was discharged well after three weeks.
Our case is the sixth that had split notochord syndrome associated with dorsal enteric fistula and imperforate anus. Additionally, penoscrotal transposition and wandering spleen were present in this case. To our knowledge, these associated anomalies have been extremely rare.
In silico Pharmacokinetic, Molecular Docking and Molecular Dynamics Simulation Studies of Phytochemicals isolated from Cascabela thevetia as Potential Anticancer Agents
Authors: Panday Amit A , Maurya Ajay K , Pandey Amit R , Soni Shivani , Mishra Shashank S , Pandey Rishi R
Published: October 2024

Cascabela thevetia generally recognized as yellow oleander, Lippold or lucky nut (in English) and Peeli Kaner (in Hindi), is Indigenous to Central America and Mexico and widely distributed in the Indian subcontinent as well, is a medicinally important herb that has long been employed to treat disorders like ulcers, scabies, haemorrhoids, and tumour dissolution. Seven Cardenolides (Compounds 1-7) isolated from fruits of Cascabela thevetia are selected as ligands for in silico pharmacokinetic (ADME properties) and drug-likeness studies via the Swiss ADME online server. Further, molecular docking studies were accomplished for the selected ligands via the Auto Dock Vina module of PyRx to explore the receptor-ligand interaction with β-tubulin (a potential target for anticancer drugs, PDB ID: 1SA0), to find out potential therapeutic ligands for cancer chemotherapy. From the studies performed it was found that most of the ligands (compounds) have the capability of good binding affinity with the receptor, β-tubulin, good drug-likeness and ADME properties among which compounds 3, 6 and 7 are the best drug candidates because they followed the Lipinski rule of 5 with 0 violation and also have good binding affinities (-8.3, -8.0 and -7.9 kcal/mol respectively) against the target protein. Hence, compounds 3, 6 and 7 can be developed as novel therapeutic agents in cancer chemotherapy. Further, a Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulation study of best-docked ligand 3 was performed to establish its stability and validate molecular docking results. Based on simulation results, it may be stated that ligand 3 was firmly attached to the receptor protein during MD simulation since none of the conformations of the receptor-ligand complex were unstable, and no folding or unfolding of the complex took place. Therefore, compound 3 can be considered a good inhibitor of β-tubulin after validation of various parameters of drug discovery.
Repetitive Heating Induced Thermal Oxidation of Corn Oil: Impact on Physicochemical Properties, α-Tocopherol, and β-Carotene Depletion
Authors: Rajoriya Vijeta , Bigoniya Papiya
Published: October 2024

The study aims to analyze thermal oxidative stability of repeatedly heated corn oil with particular reference to α-tocopherol and β-carotene. Current study evaluated stability of phytosterol, phenols, α-tocopherol, and β-carotene in corn oil submitted to thermal degradation following repeated heating at 100°C and 180°C. The oxygenated samples were repeatedly collected following 5 hours of heat exposure three times a day for three days and stored in amber-colored bottles. Oil samples were subjected to physicochemical parameters along with a quantitative estimation of total phytosterol, total phenols, α-tocopherol, and β-carotene. Thermal degradation at 180°C had elevated density, viscosity, acid value, and peroxide value significantly (P<0.05-0.001), whereas it reduced iodine value and specific gravity. Oxidation of corn oil at 180°C showed 79.18% and 43.75% loss of α-tocopherol and β-carotene content. Heating corn oil three times a day for five hours over three days results in considerable degradation and darkening of color with a subtle increase in opacity, increased viscosity, density, peroxide value, and acid value, alongside a notable decline in α-tocopherol and β-carotene content. Thermal oxidation led to formation of oxidized products, resulting in notable alterations in corn oil's physicochemical and phytochemical characteristics, compromising its health benefits.
Formulation and Evaluation of Extended-Release Bilayer Tablets Containing Empagliflozin and Metformin Hydrochloride for Diabetes Mellitus Management
Authors: Deore Krishna , Mouzam Mohammad Ismail
Published: October 2024

This study systematically evaluates the formulation development of bilayer tablets combining Empagliflozin and Metformin hydrochloride for diabetes mellitus management. The formulation design encompassed drug-excipient compatibility, flow characteristics, and the development of immediate and extended-release layers. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) confirmed compatibility between Empagliflozin, Metformin hydrochloride, and selected excipients (HPMC and Avicel), showing no significant variations in onset and peak melting points after 4 weeks of incubation. Flow properties were assessed and demonstrating excellent flow characteristics suitable for tablet formulation. Both pre and post- compression analysis were found to be within pharmacopoeial limits. In an attempt to define the best formulation parameters, a concept known as Central Composite Design (CCD) as well as Full Factorial Design (FD) were used. CCD experiments pointed to the strong impact of Hydroxypropyl cellulose and Croscarmellose content on the tableting properties. It was useful while employing the FD method in conducting a comprehensive evaluation of several factors affecting Empagliflozin formulation to accomplish optimization. This detailed investigation underscores the importance of systematic assessments in formulating bilayer tablets with Empagliflozin and Metformin hydrochloride, ensuring stability, efficacy, and compliance, ultimately contributing to advancements in drug delivery systems and improved patient outcomes.
Gabapentin loaded graphene oxide mesoporous silica nanocomposite: design, development and in-vitro characterization
Authors: Patil Ketan , Patel Jayvadan
Published: October 2024

The present study aimed to develop lipid-coated gabapentin-loaded graphene oxide-mesoporous silica nanocomposites (LC-GAB-GO-MSN) as a novel drug delivery system. The objective was to address the poor permeability and low bioavailability issues associated with Gabapentin (GAB), a BCS Class III drug, by utilizing the distinctive properties of GO-MSN nanocomposites to enhance drug delivery efficiency. GAB loading within the nanocomposites was achieved through passive loading techniques, while lipid coating was carried out employing a modified thin film hydration method. Spectral characterization was conducted to determine the entrapment efficiency of GAB within the nanocomposites. Drug release studies evaluated pharmacological release kinetics developed LC-GAB-GO-MSN and GAB-GO-MSN nanocomposites. The spectral characterizations revealed an entrapment efficiency of 51.25% for GAB-MSN and 68.19% for GAB-GO-MSN. Moreover, drug release studies (in vitro) demonstrated 95.70% and 70.83% drug release from LC-GAB-GO-MSN and GAB-GO-MSN nanocomposites, respectively. The design of lipid-coated LC-GAB-GO-MSN through GO-MSN incorporation followed by lipid coating offered a controlled release profile. LC-GAB-GO-MSN nanocomposites showed promise for delivering GAB and other pharmaceutical compounds with enhanced payload capacity and release kinetics, highlighting their potential advantages over current methodologies and the important role of protocells in the development of cargo delivery systems.
Spinal Muscular Atrophy: A Systematic Review of Diagnosis, Treatment and Emerging Research
Authors: Baraka Babiker BH , Porwal Mahek , Kannur Sahana , Pandey Abhishek , Khan Alma
Published: October 2024

This systematic review aims at understanding the causes, consequences and therapy of spinal muscular atrophy, which is an inheritable illness which can be fatal at times. Although spinal muscular atrophy is incurable, various drugs have been developed to ameliorate the disease condition and this article aims at understanding the effect of all the available synthetic drugs on Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). A search plan was curated using various databases like, PubMed, Google Scholar and Science Direct. Authors selected publications of Risdiplam, Onasemnogene abeparvovec and Nusinersen, and even studies comparing the drugs with one another, including studies related to drugs like hydroxyurea, phenylbutyrate and gabapentin. 40 publications were identified and finalized based on preferences. All the 3 approved drugs improved motor milestones in SMA patients as compared to natural cohort of the disease. Although Gene replacement therapy observed tremendous results, further investigations is needed to be done. Other drugs like hydroxyurea (HU), Gabapentin, Valproic acid and phenylbutyrate showed significant, little and no effect respectively. All 3 drugs showed significant outcomes and were safe and effective in the longer duration of use. Hydroxyurea and Valproic acid showed slight improvement whereas Gabapentin and Phenylbutyrate had no effect.
Projeto Especial de Colonização Serra do Ramalho (BA) - Diagnóstico inicial, desafios e limites inerentes ao processo de regularização fundiária
Authors: Salomão Dias Julia , Baiocchi Jacobson Tamiel Khan , De Bortoli Adriano , Mendes Santos Katiúcia , De Ávila Mário Lúcio , Trevisan Marcelo Matheus
Published: October 2024

O conhecimento da situação fundiária do território nacional é elemento básico para elaboração de políticas públicas de desenvolvimento econômico, social, ambiental e o planejamento e gestão do território. Os Projetos Especiais de Colonização (PEC) apresentam amplo passivo de regularização fundiária, como é o caso do PEC Serra do Ramalho (PECSR). Diante disso, a presente pesquisa visa identificar e caracterizar a situação do PECSR através do diagnóstico da sua atual situação, a fim de fornecer subsídios para a elaboração de eventual projeto de regularização. Conclui-se que o PECSR apresenta uma série de elementos complicadores, informações incongruentes e controversas, múltiplos processos específicos de afetação e irregularidades documentais, agravados pela dinâmica histórica da legislação.
Voice Computing with Python in Jupyter Notebooks
Authors: Mooers Blaine H. M.
Published: October 2024

Jupyter is a popular platform for writing interactive computational narratives that contain computer code and its output interleaved with prose that describes the code and the output. It is possible to use one’s voice to interact with Jupyter notebooks. This capability improves access to those with impaired use of their hands. Voice computing also increases the productivity of workers who are tired of typing and increases the productivity of those workers who speak faster than they can type. Voice computing can be divided into three activities: speech-to-text, speech-to-command, and speech-to-code. We will provide examples of the first two activities with the Voice-In Plus plugin for Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge. To support the editing of Markdown and code cells in Jupyter notebooks, we provide several libraries of voice commands at MooersLab on GitHub.
Model Share AI
Authors: Peters Heinrich , Parrott Michael
Published: October 2024

Machine learning (ML) is revolutionizing a wide range of research areas and industries, but many ML projects never progress past the proof-of-concept stage. To address this problem, we introduce Model Share AI (AIMS), a platform designed to streamline collaborative model development, model provenance tracking, and model deployment, as well as a host of other functions aiming to maximize the real-world impact of ML research. AIMS features collaborative project spaces and a standardized model evaluation process that ranks model submissions based on their performance on holdout evaluation data, enabling users to run experiments and competitions. In addition, various model metadata are automatically captured to facilitate provenance tracking and allow users to learn from and build on previous submissions. Furthermore, AIMS allows users to deploy ML models built in Scikit-Learn, TensorFlow Keras, or PyTorch into live REST APIs and automatically generated web apps with minimal code. The ability to collaboratively develop and rapidly deploy models, making them accessible to non-technical end-users through automatically generated web apps, ensures that ML projects can transition smoothly from concept to real-world application.
PERLINDUNGAN HUKUM KREDITUR TERHADAP DEBITUR YANG MENGGUNAKAN PRINSIP CROSS DEFAULT DAN COLLATERAL DALAM PERJANJIAN KREDIT
Authors: Safira Excha Restya
Published: October 2024

This scientific research aims to outline the legal protection that creditors get to debtors who use the principles of cross default and cross collateral in credit agreements. In this scientific research, the method used is normative law that uses legislation as a source of data. The technique of collecting legal documents uses literature study techniques. The results of this scientific research show that the Cross Default and Cross Collateral principles by using the debtor's guarantee object can create one or more different credit facilities that use the same collateral, while the creditor remains protected because the existence of the Cross Default and Cross Collateral principles aims to anticipate if in the future there is a defaulting party and the creditor can still demand responsibility for the negligence.
Pengembangan Lembar Kerja Peserta Didik (LKPD) Berbasis Berpikir Kritis pada Materi Sistem Gerak Manusia
Authors: Hanifah Wirdah Millatul , Tambunan Efrida Prima Sari , Jayanti Ummi Nur Afinni Dwi
Published: October 2024

Penelitian yang telah dilakukan berjudul “Pengembangan Lembar Kerja Peserta Didik  (LKPD) berbasis Keterampilan Berpikir Kritis Pada  Materi Sistem Gerak Manusia. Penelitian ini bertujuan dalam mengembangkan LKPD berbasis Keterampilan Berpikir Kritis pada materi sistem gerak manusia menguji kevalidan, kepraktisan serta mengetahui keefektifan LKPD. Penelitian ini dilakukan di SMAN 1 Bintang Bayu. Sampel yang digunakan pada penelitian ini adalah peserta didik kelas XI berjumlah 25 orang peserta didik. Metode pada penelitian ini menggunakan metode penelitian R&D dengan model pengembangan ADDIE (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation). Hasil  validasi ahli materi diperoleh presentase rata-rata 84% dengan kategori sangat valid. Hasil validasi ahli media diperoleh presentase rata-rata  98%  dengan kategori sangat valid. Hasil penilaian respon pendidik diperoleh presentase rata-rata  90% dengan kategori sangat praktis. Hasil penelitian respon peserta didik diperoleh presentase rata-rata 87,24% dengan kategori sangat praktis. Hasil belajar pada peserta didik terhadap penerapan LKPD berbasis Keterampilan Berpikir Kritis dengan materi sistem gerak manusia mendapatkan hasil yang cukup efektif dengan nilai n-gain sebesar 0,61 dan terjadi peningkatan hasil belajar sebesar 38,20. Berdasarkan hasil uji kevalidan, kepraktisan, dan kefektifan produk, maka LKPD berbasis Keterampilan Berpikir Kritis Pada Materi Sistem Gerak Manusia yang dikembangkan valid (layak), praktis dan efektif digunakan pendidik dan peserta didik dalam proses pembelajaran Biologi Kata Kunci : LKPD berbasis Keterampilan Berpikir Kritis, R&D model ADDIE, Sistem Gerak Manusia
Natural hydrogen system evaluation in the São Francisco Basin (Brazil)
Authors: de Freitas Vivian Azor , Prinzhofer Alain , Françolin João Batista , Ferreira Francisco José Fonseca , Moretti Isabelle
Published: October 2024

The São Francisco Basin (SFB), a double foreland bordered by two Neoproterozoic belts, hosts a proven hydrogen (H2) system, demonstrated by high concentrations in boreholes and numerous surface H2 emissions, some long-term monitored. However, no detailed study has been conducted to correlate these H2 occurrences with subsurface geological features. Therefore, this study evaluated the H2 system components in the SFB, using public geophysical and well data previously acquired. The investigation revealed that wells drilled in structural traps contain natural gas and variable amounts of H2, ranging from a few percent to 41%, at depths between 300 m and nearly 4 km, particularly within Neoproterozoic units. These intervals exhibit high neutron log readings when the H2 concentration is higher than that of CH4. The H2-rich layers exhibit very low porosity and permeability and are overlapped by more impermeable zones within the same lithostratigraphic units. The low density of sub-circular depressions (SCD) near most H2-bearing wells could be due to effective seal, however, the type of soil is likely to strongly influence the SCD formation since our investigation revealed that SCDs are predominantly found in poorly compacted sediments of the Cenozoic cover of the SFB. Potential H2-generating rocks include the Archean and Paleoproterozoic Banded Iron Formation (BIF), Neoproterozoic BIFs and ultramafic bodies, Cretaceous ultramafic intrusions, and the overmature organic-rich source rocks. A complementary influence of radiolysis cannot be ruled out. Significant magnetic anomalies, as indirect indicators of ferrous bodies, suggest potential H2 kitchens. Notably, the Pirapora Anomaly, in the central part of the basin, may reveal the presence of iron-rich bodies at great depth. However, most of the H2-bearing wells are not in their zone of influence, suggesting the presence of other H2 kitchens, such as those indicated by the magnetic anomalies beneath the Alto do Paranaíba Igneous Province (APIP) and Quadriláfero Ferrífero (QF), extending to the internal part of the basin. The multiphase structural history of the SFB may allow gas migration in different ways. The relative influence of long-distance migration, usually from the compressive front toward the foreland part of the basin, and a vertical short-distance migration from magmatic intrusion can be highlighted. Additionally, denudation accelerated by the opening of the Atlantic Ocean may play a role in the H2 flow measured in this basin.
Impedance of a flow-through measuring electrochemical cell with a system of planar interdigitated microelectrodes
Authors:   Omsk State Technical University, Kozlov A. G. , Fadina E. A. ,   Omsk State Technical University
Published: October 2024

The article considers a flow-through electrochemical cell with planar interdigitated microelectrodes intended for impedance studies of liquids. To assess the influence of the cell height and geometric parameters of the interdigitated microelectrodes on the cell impedance, an analytical approach is proposed that uses several levels of modeling electrochemical processes in the cell. At first, an elementary two-dimensional subdomain is distinguished in the cell structure, for which the potential distribution is determined by solving the differential equation of electrical conductivity. Using the obtained potential distribution, the linear parameters of the elementary subdomain, its linear resistance and linear capacitance are determined, on the basis of which the resistance and capacitance of the interdigitated microelectrode system are found. The impedance of an electrochemical cell with interdigitated microelectrodes is determined using its equivalent electrical circuit, which includes the resistance and capacitance of the interdigitated microelectrode system, the capacitance of the double electric layer on the surface of each microelectrode, and the resistances of the interdigitated microelectrode leads. Using the expression for the impedance of the electrochemical cell, its Nyquist and Bode diagrams are determined for different values of the cell height and geometric parameters of the interdigitated microelectrode system. The presented approach can be used to analyze processes in a flow-through electrochemical cell with interdigitated microelectrodes, its design, and the development of methodological support for impedance studies of liquid substances with help of it.
An overview of the factors affecting fiber-optic communication lines during lightning discharges and modeling of laboratory installations designed to study the effect of a magnetic field on fiber parameters
Authors:   Omsk State Transport University, Mitrokhin V. E. , Osipov V. E. ,   Omsk State Technical University
Published: October 2024

The article provides an overview of the known effects that influence the transmission of information over optical fiber and that arise as a result of lightning discharges: the electro-optical Kerr effect, the Faraday effect, the influence of ionizing radiation. It is indicated that there is preliminary empirical data according to which the magnetic field changes such an optical fiber parameter as attenuation. In order to verify these preliminary empirical data, further experimental studies of the supposed influence of the magnetic field on attenuation are proposed, for which it is necessary to build a laboratory installation. This article is also devoted to a comparison of various options for laboratory installations and the preliminary selection of a parameter for comparison. As a result of modeling two options for a laboratory installation and comparing them according to the accepted parameter, one of two installation options is selected.
Experimental studies of the quantitative composition of corrosion products on the surface of reinforced concrete structures
Authors:   Omsk State Transport University, Fomichenko K. I. , Volchanin G. V. ,   Omsk State Transport University, Kuznetsov A. A. ,   Omsk State Transport University, Kuzmenko A. Yu. ,   Omsk State Transport University
Published: October 2024

Reinforced concrete structures play a key role in modern infrastructure, however, corrosion of reinforcement poses a serious threat to their durability and safety. In this study, the sensitivity of a portable X-ray fluorescence analyzer (XRF) to corrosion products on the concrete surface is considered. The experiment was conducted using concrete samples containing varying amounts of iron hydroxide. The results showed that the FRA demonstrates high accuracy and reliability in detecting corrosion, which contributes to the improvement of diagnostic methods and maintenance of reinforced concrete structures.
Computer modeling of aerodynamic flow and assessment of pedestrian aerodynamic comfort of a building complex
Authors:   Nizhny Novgorod State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Khazov P. A. , Vediaikina O. I. ,   Nizhny Novgorod State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering
Published: October 2024

The results of a computer modeling of the distribution of wind flows near diverse objects (large-span and high-rise buildings) are given and analyzed. The analysis of pedestrian aerodynamic comfort is carried out for a vertical object (a high-rise building) separately and in two positions in combination with a horizontal one (a large span). Wind flow distribution fields are obtained. The results of the experiment show that complex buildings affect their distribution. The point of application and the modulus of the vector of the resultant wind load change. The speed and direction of distribution of wind flows near objects are changing. A nearby building located on the windward side creates a «barrier» reducing the wind speed in the courtyard areas. A building located downwind is able to reflect air flows, creating swirls near objects. More comfortable for external technical work on the facades of the buildings in question is the position from behind facing the direction of the wind flow.
Effectiveness of Belimumab for Glucocorticoid Discontinuation in Juvenile-Onset Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Kise Tomoo , Uehara Masatsugu
Published: October 2024

Lupus nephritis (LN) is an important complication of systemic lupus erythematosus, for which glucocorticoids (GCs) are the primary treatment. Due to the side effects associated with GCs, their long-term use should ideally be tapered and discontinued. At present, no such possibility exists without problematic flares after discontinuation. We administered belimumab, a human monoclonal antibody that binds to a soluble B lymphocyte stimulator to reduce the number of activated B cells, to six patients with Type IV LN to discontinue GCs. The six patients were 10–15 years old when LN developed and 15–24 years old when belimumab treatment was initiated. Prednisolone was tapered from 6 to 20 mg by 2.5–5 mg every month until the dosage reached 5 mg, at which point the dosage was further reduced by 1 mg every 6 months. One patient was transferred to another hospital midway and five patients discontinued GCs. No flares occurred 8–38 months post discontinuation. No adverse effects were observed following belimumab treatment. In conclusion, belimumab was effective in the successful discontinuation of GCs.
How Technology-Afforded Practices at the Micro-Level can Generate Change at the Field Level: Theorizing the Recursive Mechanism Actualized in Swedish Rheumatology 2000-2014
Authors: Essén Anna , Värlander Sara Winterstorm
Published: October 2024

The information systems literature has paid a great deal of attention to how macro-level structures shape local technology enactments. Less research has focused on the mutual shaping of situated technology enactments and such extra-organizational structures. This study explores how technology-afforded human action at the micro-level may transform field-level social structures and thus generate institutional change. We use a critical realist approach and institutional logics lens and draw on empirical data about the development and implementation of an e-health service in Swedish rheumatology between 2000 and 2014. We identify a recursive mechanism consisting of three recursive practices—material reconstruction, discursive reconstruction, and emergent use—that fostered a shift in the field’s constellation of institutional logics, moving from a competitive to an additive relationship between logics.
Shared or Dedicated Infrastructures: On the Impact of Reprovisioning Ability
Authors: Guerin Roch , Hosanagar Kartik , Li Xinxin , Sen Soumya
Published: October 2024

New technologies, such as virtualization, are transforming the way in which software and services are deployed and delivered to their users. They are behind the emergence of IT offerings such as cloud computing and converged networks, and manifest themselves through two important trends: (1) lower the cost of sharing a common infrastructure across multiple services with disparate resource requirements, and (2) dynamic provisioning of capacity in response to demand. Conventional wisdom is that both of these capabilities are synergistic, with greater provisioning flexibility improving the benefits derived from sharing computing or network resources. Consequently, a service operator should now always favor the use of a shared infrastructure over dedicated solutions when hosting multiple services. In this paper, we ask whether this is indeed the case, and investigate the dual impact of lower costs of sharing and provisioning flexibility on shared and dedicated infrastructures. The investigation reveals that while lower costs are always expected to favor infrastructure sharing, dynamic provisioning plays an ambiguous role. Reprovisioning improves both shared and dedicated solutions, but can do so differently and can sometimes favor a dedicated infrastructure. Our findings help illustrate that the technology trends, such as virtualization, behind cloud computing need not always favor the deployment of services on a shared infrastructure.