bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carriage rate and Antimicrobial resistance Profile of Staphylococcus aureus Among Healthcare Workers at Edna Adan University Hospital
Authors: Nour Hussein Mohamoud , Hashi Khadar Mohamed
Published: August 2023

Background: Staphylococcus aureus is a pathogen that causes a wide variety of clinical manifestations ranging from food poisoning, toxic shock syndrome, and infections that range from mild skin infections to serious and life threatening conditions such as, endocarditis, bacteremia and osteomyelitis (1). Ranking as the second most common cause of hospital acquired (nosocomial) bloodstream infections (2). About 20% of patients undergoing surgery acquire at least one nosocomial S. aureus infection, leading to increased morbidity, mortality, hospital stay, and costs (2).however, there is no any previous study conducted regarding this topic in Hargeisa, Somaliland.
Objectives:The main objective of this study was to determine the Carriage rate and Antimicrobial resistance Profile of Staphylococcus aureus Among Healthcare Workers at Edna Adan University Hospital
Methods: Hospital-based cross-sectional was conducted on a total of 80 healthcare workers from July to August 2023 at EAH. A simple random sampling technique was used and Samples were collected from HCWs at EAUH from July to August 2023. By using pre-moistened sterile cotton swabs and specimens were collected from the anterior nares and palms of the HCWs. The samples were collected by rotating the swabs gently two to three times on both nares of the study participants. Similarly, a second swab was used to collect specimen from both palms of the health care workers. Both swabs were cultured on blood agar and subculture onto Manitol Salt agar and incubated at 37 °C for 24 hrs.
Results: The overall prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus in this study was 20% (16/80) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus was 7.5% (6/80). Carriage rate was highest among midwifes 7(29.2%) followed by nurses 5(26.3%) and doctors (3(17.6%) respectively. Similarly highest colonization rate of MRSA 3(60%) were observed among nurses and doctors 1(50%) followed by midwifes 2(28.6%). Length of healthcare service was significantly associated with MRSA colonization. Highest rate of resistance (100%) was found against Ampicillin, Cefoxitin (93.7%) Erythromycin (87.5% and Gentamycin (68.75%) respectively. S. aureus was found to be highly sensitive to Doxycycline (100%) Ciprofloxacin (100%) and Clindamycin (87.5%). Similarly, MRSA was completely showed (100%) resistance against Cefoxitin and ampicillin.
Conclusion: The prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus are high in this study. The present study encourages the need for regular screening and surveillance among hospital staff and the environment to prevent MRSA transmission among health-care personnel and Molecular detection of highly resistant strains of MRSA are suggested
Fixed-time synchronization of fractional-order chameleon hyperchaotic systems based on hyperbolic sliding mode
Authors: Li Shuaiwei , Zhao Xiaoshan , Yang Ruilong
Published: August 2023

This paper proposes a new control method for a four-dimensional hyperchaotic system using the terminal sliding mode control. It eliminates the need for the traditional activation function by replacing it with a hyperbolic tangent function. This method effectively deals with the effects of parameter uncertainties and external disturbances in the systems, also eliminates the chattering phenomenon in the synchronous process, enables the response system and the drive system to reach the synchronization state in a fixed time. Finally, numerical simulations with MATLAB software were applied to verify the effectiveness of this fixed time convergence technique.
Hippocampal volume and affect in response to fluctuating estrogens in menstrual cycle irregularity: A longitudinal single-subject study
Authors: Heller Carina , Güllmar Daniel , Koeppel Carina J. , Rojczyk Philine , Stein Heidemarie , Taylor Caitlin M. , Jacobs Emily G. , Derntl Birgit , Kikinis Zora , Walter Martin , Croy Ilona
Published: August 2023

Background The menstrual cycle is a critical indicator of women's reproductive, physical, and mental health, influenced by neuromodulatory sex steroid hormones, including estrogens like 17β-estradiol, and estrone. Irregular menstrual cycles can lead to various health conditions. Understanding the relationship between endogenous hormone fluctuations and brain function across the menstrual cycle is essential for comprehending mental health disorders prevalent in women. Here, we investigated the impact of hormonal variations on hippocampal morphology and affect in a participant with an irregular menstrual cycle. Methods In this dense-sampling longitudinal study, a healthy female with an irregular menstrual cycle underwent testing for five consecutive weeks, covering mostly the follicular phase and ovulation. Daily blood draws provided measurements of estradiol, estrone, and progesterone. T1-weighted MRI scans assessed bilateral hippocampal volumes. Psychological measures of positive and negative affect were collected each session. Statistical analyses included cubic regression curves, Spearman correlations, and mediation regression models to explore hormonal associations with hippocampal morphology and affect. Results Fluctuations were observed in hormonal concentrations, hippocampal volume, and affect across the 25 testing days. Estradiol and estrone correlated significantly with hippocampal volume, while progesterone did not show any significant association. Increased estrogen levels were linked to decreased positive affect, mediated by hippocampal volume fluctuations. Increased estrogen levels were further associated with increased negative affect, however, independently of hippocampal changes. Conclusion This study sheds light on the complex relationship between endogenous hormone fluctuations, hippocampal morphology, and affect in a participant with an irregular menstrual cycle. The findings suggest potential roles of estrogens and estrone in affect regulation, with implications for women's mental health and brain function. Further research is warranted to explore these associations in larger samples and various menstrual cycle patterns.
Esketamine prevents cognitive deficiency via intestinal flora/subdiaphragmatic vagus nerve/spleen axis after a secondary LPS exposure
Authors: Wu Yuming , Zhang Yujing , Xie Bing , Zhang Xinyu , Wang Guangzhi , Yuan Shiying
Published: August 2023

After resolution of primary infection, patients are susceptible to more severe secondary infection with unclear underlying mechanisms.To investigate whether esketamine treatment immediately after primary LPS exposure could alleviate second-infection-induced cognitive impairment. In this study, mice were injected intraperitoneally (i.p.) with lipopolysaccharides (LPS; 5 mg/kg) 10 days apart. Esketamine (10, 15 or 30 mg/kg) was i.p. injected immediately after the primary LPS injection. Splenectomy or subdiaphragmatic vagotomy (SDV) was performed 7 days before secondary LPS exposure or administration of antibiotics. Esketamine at 30 mg/kg mitigated splenomegaly at 3 and 10 days post primary LPS injection. It countered cognitive dysfunction and proinflammatory cytokine increases from secondary LPS exposure. Mice with splenectomy or SDV showed reduced proinflammatory cytokines, heightened hippocampal BDNF, and improved cognition after secondary infection, without added esketamine effect. FMT from esketamine-treated endotoxic mice to pseudo germ-free (PGF) mice attenuated hippocampal BDNF downregulation and cognitive dysfunction in PGF mice without splenectomy. FMT failed to reverse PGF mice's SDV-induced splenomegaly. Blocking BDNF signaling negated esketamine's ameliorating effects on secondary LPS-induced cognitive dysfunction. In conclusion, the intestinal flora/subdiaphragmatic vagus nerve/spleen axis-mediated downregulation of hippocampal BDNF had a profound effect on secondary LPS-induced inflammation and cognitive dysfunction.
Elevational and seasonal diversity of insect orders in the Shivapuri-Nagarjun National Park, Nepal
Authors: Saru Meena , Acharya Bhumika , Adhikari Asmita , Giri Susma
Published: August 2023

Insects fill many ecological niches and are crucial for sustaining ecosystems. Nevertheless, reported declines in insect diversity across the globe has raised grave concerns for these declines have significant ecological and economic ramifications. The current scenario of shifting environmental conditions, dwindling insect populations, and a dearth of information on these species in Nepal, one of the 36 biodiversity hotspots, necessitates immediate intervention. The essential first step in increasing our understanding of the species for appropriate conservation efforts is species inventory. Using three collecting techniques (cup trap, pitfall trap, and net swipe), we evaluated insect order diversity in the Shivapuri-Nagarjun National Park from February 2019 to February 2020 spanning three elevations (1660 m to 2700 m asl) and four seasons (Summer, Autumn, Winter, and Spring). Dipetra led the collection with a total of 632 individuals out of the 1467 insects belonging to 11 orders. The total count did not differ by elevation and was highest in the summer and lowest in the winter. While the ß-diversity was unaffected by elevation or season, the α-diversity varied according to both. We discuss the relationship between insect counts and air temperature as well as the relative abundance at various elevations and during various seasons. We also talk about the relationship between insect counts and air temperature and their relative abundance. For future reference, this study gathers the critical baseline data on the distribution of insect orders at SNNP.
Neck dissection of Level Ib for the treatment of cN0 HPV-negative oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma: Should it be safely omitted?
Authors: Sheng Surui , Ye Lulu , Ma Chunyue , Zhu Yun , He Yue
Published: August 2023

Background: Selective neck dissection (SND) of levels II-IV is traditionally recommended for the treatment of cN0 oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC). Whether to include level Ib in the dissection of cN0 neck tumors is debated because occult lymph node metastasis is frequently located at level II, which is closely posterior to level Ib. Moreover, neck dissection focusing on HPV-negative OPSCC is insufficient because the HPV-positive subtype accounts for most cases in many regions, especially in Western countries. The aim of this study was to clarify whether patients would potentially benefit from including level Ib in SND for cN0 HPV-negative OPSCC.
Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 198 cN0 HPV-negative OPSCC patients who underwent SND of levels II-IV (Group A) and levels Ib-IV (Group B). Neck recurrence (NR) was considered the primary endpoint. Overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), and disease-specific survival (DSS) were the secondary endpoints.
Results: In Group B, the rate of occult lymph node metastasis at level Ib of the ipsilateral neck was 6.1%. For the entire cohort, the rate of NR was 7.6% in Group A and 2.3% in Group B (p = 0.074). The 5-year OS and DFS rates were also not significantly different between Group A (50.0% and 43.2%) and Group B (57.6% and 51.6%), while Group B had higher 5-year DSS rate than Group A (60.7% vs. 47.9%, p = 0.018). For the tumor from the base of tongue, the rate of NR was obviously higher in Group A (12.2%) than in Group B (2.1%, p = 0.015). Patients in Group A had lower 5-year DFS (39.1% vs. 47.4%, p = 0.046) and DSS rates (46.5% vs. 56.3% p = 0.034). N2 stage was an independent predictive factor for both OPSCC (p= 0.017) and the primary tumor from the base of tongue (p = 0.007).
Conclusions: Even though the metastatic rate of cN0 OPSCC at level Ib was relatively low, including level Ib in SND should be considered for OPSCC originating from the base of tongue, especially in advanced stages, which would potentially lower the rate of NR and improve the survival benefit.
Characterization of Two Novel Fusariviruses Co-Infecting a Single Isolate of Phytopathogenic Fungus Botrytis Cinerea
Authors: Ahmed Aqeel , Khan Haris Ahmed , Jamal Atif , Virk Nasar , Bhatti Muhammad Faraz
Published: August 2023

A wide diversity of mycoviruses have been reported from Botrytis species, some with the potential to supress the pathogenic abilities of this fungus. Considering their importance, this study was devised to find potential hypovirulence associated mycoviruses from in Botrytis cinerea strains isolated from Pakistani strawberry fields. Here we report complete genome characterization of two novel fusariviruses co-infecting single isolate of phytopathogenic fungus Botrytis cinerea. Viral genomes were sequenced via deep sequencing using total RNA fractions from isolate Kst14. Identified viruses were tentatively named Botrytis cinerea fusarivirus 8 (BcFV8) and Botrytis cinerea fusarivirus 9 (BcFV9). Both viruses had a single segmented (ssRNA) genome having a size of 6,424 and 8,370 nucleotides encoding two discontinuous open reading frames (ORFs). ORF1 of both viruses encodes for a poly-protein having a conserved domain of RNA dependent RNA polymerase (RdRP) and a helicase domain (Hel) which function in RNA replication, while ORF2 encodes a hypothetical protein with an unknown function, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that BcFV8 made clade with the genus alphafusariviruses and BcFV9 made fall in the genus betafusarivirus in the family Fusariviridae. To our knowledge, this is the first report of two fusariviruses identified in B. cinerea isolates from Pakistan. Both viruses successfully transfected to a compatible strain of Botrytis cinerea (Mst11). A comparison of virus free and infected isogenic line showed that the presence of these viruses was causing hypovirulence in infected strains. Virus infected strains also had a small lesion size while testing the pathogenicity via apple assay.
Real and Phantom Decoys in Capuchin Monkey (Sapajus spp.) Decision-Making
Authors: Marini Marco , Colaiuda Edoardo , Gastaldi Serena , Addessi Elsa , Paglieri Fabio
Published: August 2023

Decision-making has been observed to be systematically affected by decoys, i.e., options that should be irrelevant, either because unavailable or because manifestly inferior to other alternatives, and yet shift preferences towards their target. Decoy effects have been extensively studied both in humans and in several other species; however, evidence in non-human primates remains scant and inconclusive. To address this gap, this study investigates how choices in capuchin monkeys (Sapajus spp.) are affected by two types of decoys: asymmetrically dominated decoys, i.e., options that are inferior to one of the other alternatives, and phantom decoys, i.e., unavailable options that are superior to another available alternative. After controlling for the subjective strength of initial preferences and the distance of each decoy from its target in attribute space, results demonstrate a systematic shift in capuchins’ preference towards the target of both asymmetrically dominated decoys (whether they are available or not) and phantom decoys, regardless of what options is being targeted by such decoys. This provides the most comprehensive evidence to date of decoy effects in non-human primates, with important theoretical and methodological implications for future comparative studies on context effects in decision-making.
Anti-high-mobility group box 1 Neutralizing Antibody Ameliorates Pain Hypersensitivity Induced by Intraplantar Administration of Complete Freund’s Adjuvant in Rats
Authors: Cui Jizheng , Zheng Lianshuai , Meng Yao , Tang Pingping , Zhang Guangyu , Wang Ying , Feng Jiying
Published: August 2023

Mechanisms underlying inflammation-induced pain remain elusive, but research has shown that inflammatory cytokines and immune responses in the spinal cord are especially involved. First reported as a nonhistone chromosomal protein, high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is now implicated as a novel proinflammatory cytokine and crucial mediator of inflammation. We hypothesized that HMGB1 could trigger the release of cytokines in the spinal cord and contribute to inflammatory pain (IP). To test this hypothesis, we first built an IP model induced by intraplantar administration of complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA) in rats. Moreover, an anti-HMGB1 antibody was injected intrathecally 1, 4, and 14 days after the adjuvant was administered. Pain behavioral responses were measured using a series of tests, and the expressions of spinal HMGB1, interleukin-1 beta (IL-β), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) were assessed. We found that intrathecal injection of the anti-HMGB1 antibody could effectively alleviate the behavioral hypersensitivity and reduce the expressions of spinal HMGB1, IL-β and TNF-α in IP rats. These results suggest that HMGB1 plays an important role in the development of IP induced by intraplantar administration of complete Freund's adjuvant. HMGB1 blocking therapy holds potential in the treatment of IP.
Localized Squeeze and Excitation Block
Authors: Shaukat Muhammad Bilal , Farid Muhammad Imran
Published: August 2023

In this article a new technique called Localized Squeeze and Excitation (LSE) Block is proposed. Using proposed LSE-block one can extract core features from the images in the early stage, which results in smaller deep neural network with much less number of parameters; results in less computation time. By using our proposed technique one can reduce the size of any large deep neural network model. For experimentation the model named ResNet-50 is selected and it is shown that how ResNet-50 can be converted into a smaller neural network by using our proposed technique with better accuracy and less processing time. This work is evaluated on the Breast Cancer Histopathological Image Dataset, both for binary and multi-class problems.
Pathological changes of lung tissue and oxidative stress in rats exposed to welding fumes
Authors: Alavijeh Zhaleh Pourjam , Rismanchian Masoud , Mohammadalipour Adel , Hashemnia Mohammad , Zeverdegani Sara Karimi
Published: August 2023

Welding fumes are ‘possibly carcinogenic’ according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and may have negative health impacts on workers who inhale them. This study examines the differences in lung tissue pathology and oxidative stress levels between rats exposed to welding fumes and a control group. Shielded metal arc welding fumes with a concentration of 50 mg/m3 were inhaled by male Wistar rats (n = 6/treatment group) for 30 min/day × 8 days. The control group (n = 6) was maintained in normal laboratory air condition. Gravimetry was used to measure the particle size distribution, which showed that most particles were in the micron range with a significant number of ≥ 0.25-sized particles. The chemical composition of the fumes was sampled for heavy metals following the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) method 7300 and analyzed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The results showed that rats exposed to welding fumes had significant changes in SOD and GPx activity compared to the control group. The mean activity of GPx in the control and experiment groups was 16.34380 (mU/mg protein) and 11.81042 (mU/mg protein), respectively. The mean activity of SOD in the control and experiment groups was 275.587 (U/mg protein) and 121.168 (U/mg protein). The lung tissues of the control rats were normal, while the exposed rats showed mild to severe tissue injuries in the bronchial and alveolar spaces and the alveolar septa.
Study of the miRNA expression profile of cholesteatoma-derived exosomes and its clinical application
Authors: Tang Qi , Xie Mengyao , Wang Shu , Huang Xiaowu , Wu Zhiyuan , Li Chen , Han Zhijin , Yang Hua
Published: August 2023

Background:Cholesteatoma is a chronic disease that is caused by the abnormal proliferation of keratinized squamous epithelial cells in the middle ear. This study aims to explore the role of exosomal miRNAs in the pathogenesis of cholesteatoma and their potential in clinical diagnosis.Methods:We collected samples of cholesteatoma and normal retroauricular skin from 14 patients and isolated exosomes from these tissues. Exosomes were identified by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) and western blotting. Further miRNA sequencing was conducted to identify the unique exosomal miRNA expression pattern in cholesteatoma. The potential roles of differentially expressed miRNAs (DE-miRNAs) were investigated via Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses. Then, we filtered the top 9 DE-miRNAs to perform KEGG pathway enrichment analysis, and we validated the levels of these DE-miRNAs in peripheral blood plasma-derived exosomes from 12 cholesteatoma patients, 6 chronic otitis media patients and 4 healthy individuals.Results:Tissue-derived exosomes were successfully extracted from cholesteatoma and normal skin tissues. MiRNA sequencing revealed 14 upregulated miRNAs and 25 downregulated miRNAs in the cholesteatoma-derived exosomes. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that the DE-miRNAs participated in a variety of biological processes, cell components and molecular functions. The differential expression of hsa-miR-223-3p and hsa-miR-142-5p was verified in plasma-derived exosomes from cholesteatoma patients, and these molecules showed a modest ability to distinguish between cholesteatoma and normal samples (AUC=0.81 and AUC=0.84, respectively). We further identified the potential functions of these molecules in cholesteatoma pathogenesis through a KEGG pathway network.Conclusions:Our study is the first to explore the specific exosomal miRNA profile of cholesteatoma. Exosomal miR-223-3p and miR-142-5p can be considered promising biomarkers for the diagnosis of cholesteatoma.
Sliding Cleaning for Enhanced PV Performances
Authors: Ali Akbar
Published: August 2023

The buildup of dust particles on the surfaces of photovoltaic (PV) panels has a major impact on their effectiveness and performance. The quantity of incident sunlight that reaches the solar cells is decreased when dust particles are present, which lowers power production and lowers total energy conversion efficiency. In this work, the emphasis is on examining the effects of dust buildup on PV panels and suggesting an innovative strategy for enhancing their performance by utilizing a slide-cleaning technique.
The research begins with a thorough examination of how dust particles affect PV panels, including how they reduce light intensity and hence reduce power output. Reviewing current cleaning techniques indicates that they have costs, water use, and other drawbacks. The buildup of dust particles on the surfaces of photovoltaic (PV) panels has a major impact on their effectiveness and performance. The quantity of incident sunlight that reaches the solar cells is decreased when dust particles are present, which lowers power production and lowers total energy conversion efficiency. In this work, the emphasis is on examining the effects of dust buildup on PV panels and suggesting an innovative strategy for enhancing their performance by utilizing a slide-cleaning technique.
The research begins with a thorough examination of how dust particles affect PV panels, including how they reduce light intensity and hence reduce power output. Reviewing current cleaning techniques indicates that they have costs, water use, and other drawbacks.
Qualitative MR features to identify non-enhancing tumors within glioblastoma’s T2-FLAIR hyperintense lesions
Authors: Yamamoto Shota , Okita Yoshiko , Arita Hideyuki , Sanada Takahiro , Sakai Mio , Arisawa Atsuko , Kagawa Naoki , Shimosegawa Eku , Nakanishi Katsuyuki , Kinoshita Manabu , Kishima Haruhiko
Published: August 2023

Purpose
To identify qualitative MRI features of non-(contrast)-enhancing tumor (nCET) in glioblastoma’s T2-FLAIR hyperintense lesion.
Methods
Thirty-three histologically confirmed glioblastoma patients whose T1-, T2- and contrast-enhanced T1-weighted MRI and 11C-methionine positron emission tomography (Met-PET) were available were included in this study. Met-PET was utilized as a surrogate for tumor burden. Imaging features for identifying nCET were searched by qualitative examination of 156 targets. A new scoring system to identify nCET was established and validated by two independent observers.
Results
Three imaging features were found helpful for identifying nCET; “Bulky”, “Around the rim of contrast-enhancement (Around-rim),” and “High-intensity on T1WI and low-intensity on T2WI (HighT1LowT2)” resulting in an nCET score = 2 x bulky – 2 x Around-rim + HighT1LowT2. The nCET score’s classification performances of two independent observers measured by AUC were 0.78 and 0.80, with sensitivities and specificities using a threshold of four being 0.443 and 0.771, and 0.916 and 0.768, respectively. The weighted kappa coefficient for the nCET score was 0.946
Conclusion
The current investigation demonstrated that qualitative assessments of glioblastoma’s MRI might help identify nCET in T2/FLAIR high-intensity lesions. The novel nCET score is expected to aid in expanding treatment targets within the T2/FLAIR high-intensity lesions.
The impact of dominant ventricle morphology and additional ventricular chamber size on clinical outcomes in patients with Fontan circulation
Authors: Padalino Massimo A. , Ponzoni Matteo , Reffo Elena , Azzolina Danila , Cavaliere Annachiara , Puricelli Filippo , Cabrelle Giulio , Bergonzoni Emma , Cao Irene , Gozzi Anna , Castaldi Biagio , Vida Vladimiro , Salvo Giovanni
Published: August 2023

Objectives
The functional roles of ventricular dominance and the presence of an additional ventricular chamber (AVC) after Fontan operation are still uncertain. This is a clinical study to assess and correlate such anatomical features to late clinical outcomes.
Methods
Fontan patients who underwent cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMRI) and cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) in the previous 3 years were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical, CMRI, and CPET data from the last follow-up were analyzed to assess any correlation between AVC size and ventricular morphology.
Results
Fifty patients were analyzed: left/right dominance was 29/21, with a median age of 20 years (interquartile range:16–26). Median follow-up after the Fontan operation was 16 years (interquartile range:4–42). NYHA class III-IV was present in 3 cases (6%), 4 patients (8%) underwent Fontan conversion surgery, and 2 (4%) were listed for heart transplantation. Two patients (4%) died at follow-up. Statistical analysis showed that the AVC was larger (> 20ml/m2) in the right dominant ventricles (p = 0.01), which were also associated with a higher incidence of postoperative low-cardiac output syndrome (p = 0.043). Left ventricular dominance was associated with a better ejection fraction (p = 0.04), less extent of late gadolinium enhancement (p = 0.022), higher METs (p = 0.01), and pVO2 (p = 0.033). A larger AVC was associated with a higher need for postoperative ECMO support (p = 0.007), but it did not influence functional parameters at CMRI or CPET.
Conclusions
In Fontan patients, left ventricular dominance correlated to better functional outcomes. Conversely, a larger AVC which is more frequent with right ventricular dominance can affect negatively the early post-Fontan course.
Stiffness of ascending aorta has a direct impact on left ventricular function: In silico model
Authors: Goetz Wolfgang A. , Brener Michael , Puri Rishi , Swaans Martin , Schopka Simon , Wiesner Sigrid , Creuztenberg Marcus , Sievert Horst , Kassab Ghassan S. , Yao Jiang
Published: August 2023

During systole, longitudinal shortening of the left ventricle (LV) displaces the aortic root toward the apex of the heart and stretches the ascending aorta. Effects of stiffening the ascending aorta (AA) on cardiac function was evaluated with potential implications for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFpEF). Living left heart human model (Dassault Systemes Simulia Corporation) was utilized to simulate LV function in normal and stiff AA model. In a model simulating a normal elastic AA, the ascending aorta was stretched by 11.0mm, baseline computed stroke volume was 92.2ml, and effective stroke work was 8747.5 Joules. Simulations show a typical pressure-volume loop, normal myofiber stress and strain patterns. In a model with a stiffened AA, end-diastolic pressure increased by 8.5%, while end-systolic LV pressure was reduced by 9.1%, stroke volume by 10.8% and effective stroke work by 19.0%. LV shape tended to be more ovalized at end-systole. Average tensile radial strain was reduced by 20.2 ± 2.4% compressive circumferential strain by 6.8 ± 10.9%, and average compressive longitudinal stain by 48.4 ± 36.9%, while septal longitudinal strain was reduced by 94.1%, anterior, lateral and posterior strain by 41.2%, 13.3% and 40.0% respectively. Average myofiber stress increased by 37.0 ± 42.9%, with high-stress areas noted at the LV septum. To restore baseline stroke volume, contractility was doubled, resulting in nearly identical pressure-volume loop, end-diastolic and end-systolic pressures, stroke volume, and effective stroke work as at baseline. Average tensile radial and compressive longitudinal strain remained reduced by 3.7 ± 8.8% and 37.5%±35.0%, respectively, while compressive circumferential strain increased by 13.6 ± 29.1% over baseline. Septal, anterior, lateral, and posterior longitudinal strain remained reduced by 82.3%, 23.5%, 6.7%, and 33.3% respectively. The calculated average myofiber stress was 61.8 ± 88.3% higher compared to baseline, with remarkably increased stress along the LV septum, papillary muscles, and apex. Hypothesis-generating computational study demonstrated deleterious effects of AA stiffening upon longitudinal LV function, indicating that the LV is directly linked to the AA through mechanical coupling. Since a stiff AA and impairment of left ventricular longitudinal strain is common in patients with HFpEF, we hypothesize a direct mechanical pathophysiologic link between reduced aortic stretching and reduced longitudinal left ventricular strain.
Recurrent dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans of the breast with rapid growth during pregnancy: a case report
Authors: Huang Min , Jiang Mengyuan , Zhang Rui , Zhang Min , Zhang Dengcai
Published: August 2023

Background:
Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare soft-tissue sarcoma, with the characteristics of slow growth. Herein, we reported a unique rare case of recurrent DFSP on the breast, which rapid growth during pregnancy.
Case presentation:
The patient was a 35-year-old woman with recurrent tumor in left breast that as a large tumor due to rapid growth during pregnancy. Physical examination revealed the three adjacent lumps which were firm, fixed with a relatively well-defined border, and measured approximately 10×9 cm, 4×4 cm and 3×3 cm. The histopathological diagnosis was DFSP.
Conclusions:
We present a unique rare case of recurrent DFSP on the breast, which has rapid growing behavior during pregnancy.
Exposure to Ozone Increases Executing Caspases 3 and 8 and Downregulates Bcl-2 in the Hippocampus, Frontal Cortex, and Cerebellum of Rats
Authors: Rodríguez-Quintero Paola , Rubio-Osornio Moisés , Uribe Eric , Morales Zayra , Portilla Alonso , Moreno Wilhelm , Vázquez David , Rubio Carmen
Published: August 2023

Ozone (O3) stands as one of the most prevalent atmospheric pollutants, arising from a photochemical reaction between volatile organic compounds (VOC), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and sunlight. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), exposure to O3 levels above 100 g/m3 for 8 hours or longer proves harmful. O3 triggers oxidative stress, resulting in lipid oxidation, inflammation, alterations in metabolic and cellular signaling, and potentially initiating cell death in vulnerable brain regions. Both, inflammation, and oxidative stress are recognized for their capacity to induce cell death, primarily through the apoptosis pathway. Apoptosis is programmed cell death characterized by caspase activation, DNA fragmentation, and the formation of apoptotic bodies. Various proteins intervene in this process along two pathways: intrinsic and extrinsic. This study aims to identify the expression of pro-apoptotic proteins and Bcl-2 in the frontal cortex, cerebellum, and hippocampus of rats exposed to O3 acutely. Methodology: Two groups of twenty Wistar rodents (250-300 g) were established. The control group (n=10) was exposed to unrestricted polluted air for 12 hours, while the experimental group (n=10) was exposed to 1 ppm of O3. After exposure, the animals were sacrificed for immunofluorescence and Western blot analysis. Using a t-test, the arbitrary units of pro-apoptotic proteins and Bcl-2 were compared between the two groups. Results and Conclusions: The investigation unveiled notable discrepancies in caspase-3 and 8, Bcl-2, and TUNEL. These findings lead us to conclude that acute O3 exposure induces apoptosis in the hippocampus, cerebellum, and frontal cortex primarily via the extrinsic pathway.
SPASE: SPAtial Saliency Explanation for time series models in Microsoft Azure products
Authors: Lohia Pranay , Patro Badri Narayana , Panwar Naveen , Agneeswaran Vijay
Published: August 2023

We have seen recent advances in the field of Machine Learning (ML), Deep Learning (DL), and Artificial intelligence (AI) that the models are becoming increasingly complex and large in terms of architecture and parameter size. These complex ML/DL models have beaten the state of the art in most fields of computer science like computer vision, NLP, tabular data prediction and time series forecasting, etc. With the increase in models’ performance, model explainability and interpretability has become essential to explain/justify model outcome, especially for business use cases. There has been significant improvement in the domain of model explainability for Computer Vision and Natural Language Processing (NLP) tasks with fundamental research for both black-box and white-box techniques. In this paper, we proposed novel time series explainability techniques SPASE for black-box time series model forecasting and anomaly detection problems. We also outline details of its implementation and integration into Microsoft Azure products.
Study Of Changes in Knowledge, Skill and Attitude in Parents with a Community-Based Interactive Program on ECD Promotion in Rural India
Authors: Chattopadhyay Nandita , Basu Swati
Published: August 2023

Introduction:
Early childhood is the period of most rapid brain development. Early childhood development (ECD) is considered a prime investment for future prosperity in all dimensions, and the nurturing care framework provides a roadmap for promoting ECD. The deliverables for nurturing care (NC) are simple and affordable but require a robust delivery system with multi-stakeholder involvement to reach all caregivers, who are the ultimate implementing agents. Determining how to develop an effective ECD-NC delivery system can be a perplexing primary healthcare issue, unique to each country and community.
Objectives
To devise a cost-effective and sustainable program through the mediation of trained ECD activists from the community and to promote ECD-NC in remote, rural India by motivating and empowering mothers to implement nurturing care.
Method
In a rural community with an estimated 8,000 children between the ages of zero and six, eight local women were trained on ECD and NC delivery techniques. These women conducted an intensive and sustained 22-week awareness program in the form of weekly mother-child group meetings, in which more than 800 mothers participated. The impact of the program on the mothers’ knowledge, attitude and practices was assessed by the investigating team.
Results
Comparing the baseline and end-line data revealed a significant change (p < 0.005) in the knowledge, attitude and practice of parents, with respect to the nurturing care framework, following the participatory intervention program. When questioned directly about new knowledge or skills they had acquired, mothers mentioned making toys at home (62.8%), spending more time and engaging with children (65.1%), talking, telling stories, and reading with the child (21%).
Conclusion
Training ECD activists in the community to conduct regular, sustained group activities with mothers is a simple, cost-effective way to reach large populations simultaneously and bring about a tangible change in ECD promotion.
ANALISIS PENGARUH KUALITAS PRODUK, KUALITAS LAYANAN, DAN PERSEPSI HARGA TERHADAP KEPUASAN KONSUMEN WIFI INDIHOME DI DAERAH ISTIMEWA YOGYAKARTA
Authors: Engelka Leon , Kartika Lucia Nurbani
Published: August 2023

ABSTRACT This study aims to analyze the effect of product quality, service quality and price perceptions on consumer satisfaction with indiHome wifi in the Special Region of Yogyakarta. This study uses a quantitative approach method. The population in this study is IndiHome wifi consumers, with Non-probability sampling technique, namely those who have subscribed and used indiHome wifi for at least or more than 1 month and at least 17 years old. The sampels taken in this study were 100 respondents. In terms of taking sampel data, it is done through a survei method by distributing questionnaires via Google Form to respondents. Then the researchers used the SPPS version 26 application to process respondent data and used analytical techniques in the form of descriptive analysis, multiple linear regression with hypothesis testing, namely the F test, the coefficient of determination (R2), and the t test which was preceded by the research instrumen test, namely the validity test and reliability test. Based on the results of the data obtained, the conclusions of the three independent variables, namely product quality, service quality, and price perceptions have a positive and significant influence on the dependent variable, namely simultaneous or partial consumer satisfaction. Thus, all the hypotheses in this study can be accepted. Keywords: Product Quality, Service Quality, Price Perception and Consumer Satisfaction ABSTRAK Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pengaruh dari variabel kualitas produk, kualitas layanan dan persepsi harga terhadap kepuasan konsumen wifi indiHome di Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode pendekatan kuantitatif. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah konsumen wifi IndiHome, dengan Teknik pengambilan sampel Non-probability sampling, yaitu mereka yang pernah berlangganan dan menggunakan wifi indiHome minimal atau lebih dari 1 bulan dan minimal berusia 17 tahun. Sampel yang diambil dalam penelitian ini sebanyak 100 responden. Dalam hal pengambilan data sampel, dilakukan melalui metode survei dengan cara menyebar kuesioner melalui Google Form kepada responden. Kemudian peneliti menggunakan aplikasi SPPS versi 26 untuk mengolah data responden serta menggunakan teknik analisis berupa analisis deskriptif, regresi linier berganda dengan uji hipotesis yaitu Uji F, Koefisien Determinasi (R2), dan Uji t yang didahului dengan uji instrumen penelitian yaitu uji validitas dan uji reliabilitas. Berdasarkan hasil data yang diperoleh, kesimpulan dari ketiga variabel bebas yaitu kualitas produk kualitas layanan, dan persepsi harga memiliki pengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap variabel terikat yaitu kepuasan konsumen secara simultan maupun parsial. Maka dengan demikian semau hipotesis di dalam penelitian ini dapat diterima. Kata kunci: Kualitas Produk, Kualitas Layanan, Persepsi Harga dan Kepuasan Konsumen
ANALISIS KREDIT PERBANKAN STUDI KASUS PADA 10 BANK TERBESAR DI INDONESIA
Authors: Nugraha Desta Arya , Lestari Murti
Published: August 2023

ABSTRAK Penyaluran kredit merupakan kegiatan pokok usaha perbankan. Dalam perkreditan terdapat sisi permintaan dan penawaran. Penawaran kredit berarti kemampuan bank sebagai debitur dalam menyediakan pinjaman bagi nasabah yang dapat dilihat dari berbagai rasio dalam laporan keuangan bank tersebut. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis penawaran kredit bank khususnya selama pandemi virus covid-19. Dasar dilakukannya penelitian ini yaitu karena pandemi covid-19 berdampak pada munculnya masalah perekonomian nasional, antara lain tingginya angka kredit macet serta berkurangnya permintaan kredit. Objek dalam studi ini merupakan 10 bank dengan nilai aset terbesar di Indonesia dengan harapan menjadi role model bagi bank lainnya. Berdasarkan jumlah sampel beserta periode waktu yang akan diteliti pada studi ini, peneliti menggunakan metode ekonometrika dengan mengestimasi regresi data panel untuk menguji pengaruh CAR, NPL, ROA, SBK, DPK, LDR, inflasi, dan covid-19 terhadap penawaran kredit bank di Indonesia. Pendekatan yang tepat digunakan yaitu Random effect Model. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa variabel Suku bunga kredit, DPK, LDR, dan covid-19 berpengaruh signifikan terhadap penyaluran kredit. Sedangkan CAR, NPL, ROA, dan Inflasi tidak berpengaruh signifikan terhadap penyaluran kredit. Kata kunci : Covid-19;Penyaluran kredit ABSTRACT Credit distribution is the main activity of the bank. In credit there is a demand and supply side. Credit supply means the ability of a bank as a debtor to provide loans to customers which can be seen from the various ratios in the bank's financial statements. This study aims to analyze bank credit offers, especially during the covid-19 virus pandemic. The basis for this research is that the COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on the emergence of national economic problems, including the high number of bad loans and reduced demand for credit. The objects in this study are the 10 banks with the largest asset values in Indonesia with the hope of becoming role models for other banks. Based on the number of samples and the time period to be examined in this study, the researcher uses the econometric method by estimating the panel data regression to examine the effect of CAR, NPL, ROA, SBK, TPF, LDR, inflation, and covid-19 on bank credit supply in Indonesia. The right approach used is the Random effect Model. The results showed that the variables of loan interest rates, deposits, LDR, and covid-19 had a significant effect on lending. Meanwhile, CAR, NPL, ROA, and Inflation have no significant effect on lending. Keyword : Covid-19;lending
Quantitative microbial risk assessment associated with the use of container-based toilets in Haiti
Authors: Jean-Baptiste Davidson , De Giudici Pascal , Monette Frédéric
Published: August 2023

A container-based toilet (CBT) is a type of ecological toilet that allows users to compost their feces. During emptying, bucket washing, and composting operations, operators are exposed to microbial risks. This paper aims to evaluate these risks using the Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment (QMRA) method. Nine pathogens prevalent in Haiti were targeted: Ascaris lumbricoides, Campylobacter spp., Cryptosporidium parvum, Escherichia coli O157:H7, Giardia intestinalis, poliovirus, Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., and Vibrio cholerae. Information regarding pathogens' concentration in feces came from scientific literature data. The exposure scenarios considered were those in which operators accidentally ingested a low dose of feces during the aforementioned operations. A Monte Carlo simulation was conducted to address uncertainties. The results showed that the probability of infection is highly elevated, while the probability of illness is generally moderate or minor, except for poliovirus and Ascaris. Preventive measures can be implemented to reduce these risks during various operations, such as wearing gloves, disposable protective masks, and appropriate clothing. It is up to the political authorities to develop guidelines in this regard and to organize awareness-raising activities with the help of local organizations mandated by the relevant authorities to ensure the safer use of technology by households.
The Rule of Faith, the Scripture and Tradition: A Voice in the Discussion on the Doctrine of the Holy Scripture
Authors: Zatwardnicki Sławomir
Published: August 2023

The article is a voice in the discussion on the doctrine of Scripture, that is, the theological reflection on the nature, attributes and mission of Scripture. The text shows the close link between the regula fidei and Scripture and, at the same time, the impossibility of identifying the rule of faith with the biblical canon. The rule of faith has played a role in establishing the Christian canon and throughout the Church’s time serves to protect the message of Scripture. The content expressed in the rule of faith is not derived from hidden Tradition, and Tradition has become the internal principle of the New Testament and the regula fidei. The key to Scripture is the faith of the Church, one expression of which is the rule of faith. It allows us to grasp the order of the truths of faith (harmonia veritatum) and their hierarchy (hierarchia veritatum). The original rule of faith was born out of the reception of divine revelation and, together with Scripture, remains at the service of the New Covenant.
Tomáš Halík’s Concept of God as the Depth of Reality
Authors: Jasiński Karol
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this article, whose point of reference are selected works of the Czech philosopher and theologian Tomáš Halík, is to critically analyse his concept of God. He distances himself from the idea of the Absolute as a construct of human reason and turns to the concept of God as an ontic foundation of the world. He rejects the concept of the Absolute alienated and separated from the world and embraces the vision of God hidden in the depths of reality and allowing us to experience his proximity in various ways. In the first part of the article, the philosophers’ concept of God, identified with the First Mover of the world and the Supreme Being, is critiqued. In the second part, the vision of God as the foundation and depth of being and the related issues of pantheism, panentheism and the personality of God are outlined. In the third part, attention is given to the fundamental ways of experiencing His presence and proximity, which include the experience of nature and historical events, the experience of the human interior (“deeper self”) and the encounter with another person, especially a wounded and suffering one.
Analysis of the Role of Regional Governments on Inclusive Growth (Macroeconomic Approach Study )
Authors: Retno Setyowati RN Wahyu , Budi Santoso Dwi , Ekawaty Marlina
Published: August 2023

Development is a multidimensional process that involves changes in social structure, which are based on the main orientation: the occurrence of economic acceleration, the reduction of inequality, and yet, the problem of poverty and unemployment remains an unresolved problem of absolute poverty reduction. Development also aims to achieve sustainable and inclusive economic growth. On the other hand the problem of poverty and unemployment remains as an unresolved issue. So it is necessary for the role of government, both local and central government, where the government is a driver and a planner of development. The goal is to eliminate three issues: unemployment, distribution inequality, and poverty, so that development outcomes can be enjoyed by the community fairly and evenly / inclusively. This study aims to find out which government spending can accelerate inclusive growth. This research used panel data method with simultaneous equation 3 stage least square. The results showed that capital expenditure had a negative effect on economic growth, while employee salary and population growth rate did not affect the economic growth. Capital expenditures, staff salaries, economic growth, and human development index affect the open unemployment rate. The open unemployment rate affects poverty, while economic growth has no effect on poverty. Key Words: Inclusive growth, local government spending, unemployment, and poverty.