bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glucose Levels of the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (oGTT) Can Predict Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes in Women with Gestational Diabetes (GDM)
Authors: Balke Selina , Weid Petra , Fangmann Laura , Rostin Paul , Henrich Wolfgang , Koenigbauer Josefine Theresia
Published: April 2023

Objectives and Background: Gestational diabetes (GDM) is a common pregnancy complication, defined as a glucose intolerance diagnosis during pregnancy. GDM is strongly associated with adverse fetal and maternal outcomes. In Germany, to screen and diagnose GDM we use a 1-hour 50g oGCT (oral glucose challenge test) followed by a 2-hour 75g oGTT if the first was pathological. This analysis examines the correlation of 75g oGTT glucose levels and fetomaternal outcome.
Methods:
Data of 1664 patients from a gestational diabetes consultation clinic at the Charité University hospital in Berlin, Germany, were analyzed retrospectively from 2015 until 2022. The 75g oGTT blood glucose levels were categorized into isolated fasting hyperglycemia (GDM-IFH), isolated post-load hyperglycemia (GDM-IPH) and combined hyperglycemia (GDM-CH), using the levels of the fasting, 1-hour and 2-hour values after glucose application. These subtypes were compared regarding baseline characteristics as well as fetal and maternal outcome.
Results:
GDM-IFH and GDM-CH women displayed higher preconceptional BMI and required insulin therapy more frequently (p<0,001). The GDM-IFH group was at higher risk of having a primary cesarean section (p=0,047), while GDM-IPH women were significantly more likely to have an emergent cesarean section (p=0,013). The offspring of GDM-IFH and GDM-CH women were born with a significantly higher mean birthweight (p<0,001) and birth weight percentiles (p<0,001) and were at increased risk of being large for gestational age (LGA) (p=0,004). Women from the GDM-IPH group delivered significantly more neonates who were small for gestational age (p=0,027) or with low fetal weight <30th percentile (p=0,003).
Conclusion:
This analysis shows a strong association between glucose response pattern in the 75g oGTT and adverse perinatal fetomaternal outcome. The differences among the subgroups, specifically concerning insulin therapy, mode of delivery and fetal growth, suggest an individualized approach in prenatal care after a GDM diagnosis.
When the Sugar Runs Out: Transitioning Agricultural Systems and Their Effect on Dietary Diversity in Yaguajay, Central Cuba
Authors: Ramenzoni Victoria Constanza , Vázquez Sánchez Vanessa , Valdés Massó Diana , Rangel Rivero Armando , Borroto Escuela Daily Yanetsy , Hoffman Daniel
Published: April 2023

The past years have shown the widespread vulnerability of agro-food systems and rural diets to external perturbations such as wars, climate events, and pandemics. Experiencing numerous obstacles, Cuba constitutes an example of success in the transition to agroecological sustainability models. This article characterizes how processes of agricultural change, local development, and industrial degrowth have impacted food availability and dietary diversity among rural livelihoods in the municipality of Yaguajay, Sancti Spíritus, for the past forty years (1980s-2020s). It integrates findings from focus groups, repeated nutritional surveys, and interviews carried out between 2016 and 2022 among residents of the towns of Yaguajay and La Picadora. The goal is to identify effects and response strategies within agro-food systems of rural populations. Distinguishing between periods of abundance and shortage, our findings show two counterpoints: intensive sugar monocrop cultivation which resulted in high dietary variety; and economic crises in 1990s and during the last period of the pandemic, which have led to significant dietary adjustments. The article concludes underscoring the importance of comprehensive assessments of dietary strategies to elicit what agroecological transitions mean for local realities and of the value of food consumption and small-holder production experiences to understand the limits to sustainable transformations.
Insights into the Genes Involved in ABA Biosynthesis and Perception during Development and Ripening of the Chilean Strawberry Fruit
Authors: Moya-León Maria Alejandra , Stappung Yazmina , Mattus-Araya Elena , Herrera Raúl
Published: April 2023

Hormones act as master ripening regulators. In non-climacteric fruit ABA plays a key role in ripening. Recently we confirmed in Fragaria chiloensis fruit that in response to ABA treatment the fruit induces ripening associated changes such as softening and color development. In consequence with these phenotypic changes, transcriptional variations associated with cell wall disassembly and anthocyanins biosynthesis were reported. As ABA stimulates ripening of F. chiloensis fruit, the molecular network involved in ABA metabolism was analyzed. Therefore, the expression level of genes involved in ABA biosynthesis and ABA perception were quantified during development of the fruit. Four NCED/CCDs and 6 PYR/PYLs family members were identified in F. chiloensis. Bioinformatics analyses confirmed the existence of key domains related to functional properties. Through RT-qPCR analyses the level of transcripts were quantified. FcNCED1 codifies a protein that displays crucial functional domains and the level of transcripts increased as the fruit develops and ripens, in parallel with the increment in ABA. In addition, FcPYL4 codifies for a functional ABA receptor and its expression follows an incremental pattern during ripening. The study concludes that FcNCED1 is involved in ABA biosynthesis, meanwhile FcPYL4 participates in ABA perception during ripening of F. chiloensis fruit.
Inner Speech Classification Using EEG and Deep Learning
Authors: Abdulghani Mokhles M. , Walters Wilbur L. , Abed And Khalid H.
Published: April 2023

In this paper, we propose an inner speech-based brain wave pattern recognition using deep learning. Multiple features were extracted concurrently from eight-channel Electroencephalography (EEG) signals. To obtain classifiable EEG data with fewer number of sensors, we placed the EEG sensors on carefully selected spots on the scalp. To decrease the dimensions and complexity of the EEG dataset and to avoid overfitting during the deep learning algorithm, we utilized the wavelet scattering transformation. A low-cost 8-channel EEG headset was used with MATLAB 2023a to acquire the EEG data. The Long-Short Term Memory Recurrent Neural Network (LSTM-RNN) was used to decode the identified EEG signals into four audio commands: Up, Down, Left, and Right. Wavelet scattering transformation was applied to extract the most stable features by passing the EEG dataset through a series of filtration processes. Filtration has been implemented for each individual command in the EEG datasets. The proposed inner speech-based brain wave pattern recognition approach achieved a 92.50% overall classification accuracy. This accuracy is promising for designing a trustworthy inner speech-based Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) future real-time systems. For better evaluation of the classification performance, other metrics were considered, and we obtained 92.74%, 92.50% and 92.62% for precision, recall, and F1-score, respectively.
The Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), Influences Nilaparvata lugens Population Growth Directly, by Preying on Its Eggs, and Indirectly, by Inducing Defenses in Rice
Authors: Qiu Chen , Zeng Jiamei , Tang Yingying , Gao Qing , Xiao Wenhan , Lou Yonggen
Published: April 2023

The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, has become one of the most important pests on corn in China since it invaded in 2019. Although FAW has not been reported to cause widespread damage to rice plants in China, it has been sporadically found feeding in the field. If FAW infests rice in China, the fitness of other insect pests on rice may be influenced. However, how FAW and other insect pests on rice interact remains unknown. In this study, we found that the infestation of FAW larvae on rice plants prolonged the developmental duration of the brown planthopper (BPH, Nilaparvata lugens (Stål)) eggs, and plants damaged by gravid BPH females did not induce defenses that influenced the growth of FAW larvae. Moreover, co-infestation by FAW larvae on rice plants did not influence the attractiveness of volatiles emitted from BPH-infested plants to Anagrus nilaparvatae, an egg parasitoid of rice planthoppers. FAW larvae were able to prey on BPH eggs laid on rice plants and grew faster compared to those larvae that lacked available eggs. Studies revealed that the delay in development of BPH eggs on FAW-infested plants was probably related to the increase in levels of jasmonoyl-isoleucine, abscisic acid and the defensive compounds in the rice leaf sheaths on which BPH eggs were laid. These findings indicate that if FAW invades rice plants in China, the population density of BPH may be decreased by intraguild predation and induced plant defenses, whereas the population density of FAW may be increased.
Piriform Fossa Injury during Calibration Tube Insertion in Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
Authors: Nabekura Taiki , Oshiro Takashi , Wakamatsu Kotaro , Kitahara Natsumi , Moriyama Yuki , Kadoya Kengo , Sato Ayami , Kitahara Tomoaki , Urita Tasuku , Sato Yu , Tsuchiya Masaru , Okazumi Shinich
Published: April 2023

Piriform fossa and/or esophageal injuries caused by calibration tubes are relatively rare and re-main unelucidated. Herein, we report the case of a 36-year-old woman with morbid obesity, sleep apnea, and menstrual abnormalities who was scheduled to undergo laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG). We inserted a 36-Fr Nelaton catheter made of natural rubber as a calibration tube during the surgery. However, excessive resistance was observed. We confirmed a submuco-sal layer detachment of approximately 5 cm from the left piriform fossa to the esophagus using intraoperative endoscopy. Additionally, LSG was performed using an endoscope as the guiding calibration tube. We inserted a nasogastric tube under endoscopy with a guidewire before com-pleting the surgery, hoping for a guiding effect on saliva flow. After 17 months, the patient suc-cessfully lost weight postoperatively without complaints of neck pain or discomfort during swallowing. Therefore, if the damage is limited to the submucosal layer, as in this case, conserva-tive therapy should be considered, which is similar to the concept of not requiring suture closure in endoscopic submucosal dissection. This case highlights the risk of iatrogenic injuries to the pi-riform fossa and/or esophagus during LSG and the importance of careful calibration tube inser-tion to prevent them.
HTLV-1 Proviral Load in Vaginal Fluid Correlates With Levels in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells
Authors: Firmino Alisson de Aquino , Filho Paulo Roberto Tavares Gomes , Martins Adenilda Lima Lopes , Araújo Thessika Hialla , Gois Luana Leandro , Batista Everton da Silva , Araújo Jean Paulo Lacerda , Galvão-Castro Bernardo , Grassi Maria Fernanda Rios
Published: April 2023

Background: The prevalence of human T-lymphotropic virus type-1 (HTLV-1) infection is higher in women, and sexual intercourse has been described as an important route of male-to-female transmission. The present study aimed to quantify HTLV-1 proviral load (PVL) in vaginal fluid, and to investigate correlations with PVL in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Methods: HTLV-1-infected women were consecutively recruited at a multidisciplinary center for HTLV patients in Salvador-Brazil. All women underwent gynecological examinations to obtain cervicovaginal fluid and venipuncture for blood collection. PVL, as measured by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), was expressed as the number of copies of HTLV-1/106 cells in blood and vaginal fluid samples. Light microscopy was used to assess cervicovaginal cytopathology and vaginal microbiota. Results: In the 56 included women (43 asymptomatic carriers and 13 diagnosed with HTLV-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis-HAM/TSP), mean age was 35.9 (SD±7.2) years. PVL was higher in PBMCs [median: 23,264 copies/106 cells (IQR: 7,420 - 64,371)] than in vaginal fluid [451.9 copies/106 cells (IQR: 0 - 2,672)] (p<0.0001). PVL in PBMCs was observed to correlate directly with PVL in vaginal fluid (R=0.32, p=0.01). PVL was undetectable in vaginal fluid samples from 20 women (35.7%), most of whom were asymptomatic (19/20). Cytopathologic analyses revealed no differences between women with detectable or undetectable PVL. Conclusion: HTLV-1 proviral load is detectable in vaginal fluid and correlates directly with proviral load in peripheral blood. This finding suggests that sexual transmission of HTLV-1 from female to male may occur and vertical transmission, particularly in the context of vaginal delivery.
Investigation of Parallel and Quadrature MIMO Antennas with Double-Notched Structure for UWB Applications
Authors: Wang Liang , Li Ziwei , Wang Mengjun , Fan Chao , Zheng Hongxing , Li Erping
Published: April 2023

In order to solve the interference of narrowband communication system to ultra-wideband (UWB) system and meet the design requirements of high isolation of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antenna, two MIMO antennas with double notch structures are designed. Firstly, a two-element antenna was placed symmetrically in parallel, and two rectangular branches were loaded to improve the isolation. U-shaped slots and inverted U-shaped slots are etched on the radiating patch and feeder to achieve notch characteristics in WIMAX and ITU band, respectively. Then, in order to meet more application scenarios, a four-element MIMO antenna is designed, where each element is placed orthogonally to each other, and the isolation is improved by loading a cross-shaped branches in the middle of elements. Both antenna samples are tested to verify the design. Measured results show that the working bandwidth of the two-element UWB MIMO antenna is 2.45-14.88 GHz, the isolation is greater than 17 dB, the peak gain is 5.7 dB, the maximum radiation efficiency can reach 96%, the envelope correlation coefficient (ECC)is less than 0.02. Meanwhile, the working bandwidth of the four-element antenna is 2.14-14.95 GHz, the isolation is greater than 20 dB, the peak gain is 5.9 dB, the maximum radiation efficiency can reach 95%, the ECC is lower than 0.05. They both are with very good omnidirectional characteristic, and meet the requirements of the UWB application.
Two-Lane DNN Equalizer using Balanced Random-Oversampling for W-Band PS-16QAM RoF Delivery over 4.6km
Authors: Xu Sicong , Sang Bohan , Zeng Lingchuan , Zhao Li
Published: April 2023

For W-band long-range mm-wave wireless transmission systems, nonlinearity issues resulting from photoelectric devices, optical fiber, and wireless power amplifiers can be handled by deep learning equalization algorithms. Besides, the PS technique is considered an effective measure to further increase the capacity of the modulation-constraint channel. However, since the proba-bilistic distribution of m-QAM varies with the amplitude, there have been difficulties in learning valuable information from the minority class. This limits the gain of nonlinear equalization. To overcome the imbalanced machine learning problem, we propose a novel two-lane DNN (TLD) equalizer with the random over-sampling (ROS) technique in this paper. The combination of PS at the transmitter and ROS at the receiver improves the overall performance of the W-band wireless transmission system, and our 4.6-km ROF delivery experiment verifies its effectiveness for the W-band mm-wave PS-16QAM system. Based on our proposed equalization scheme, we realize single-channel 10-Gbaud W-band PS-16QAM wireless transmission over 100 m optical fiber link and 4.6-km wireless air-free distance. The results show that compared with the typical TLD without ROS, the TLD-ROS can improve the receiver sensitivity by 1dB. Furthermore, a reduction of 45.6% in complexity is realized, and training samples can be reduced by 15.5%. Considering the actual wireless physical layer with its requirements, there is much to be gained from the joint use of deep learning and balanced data pre-processing techniques.
Dormancy Types and Germination Characteristics of Seeds of Berberis koreana Palibin, an Endemic Species of Korea
Authors: Kim Do Hyun , Kim Sang Geun , Lee Hayan , Na Chae Sun , Lee Do Hyung
Published: April 2023

Berberis koreana Palibin is an endemic plant native to Korea. In this study, we aimed to study seed germination in this species using a water imbibition experiment, gibberellic acid (GA3) treat-ment (0, 10, 100, or 1000 mg·L−1), cold stratification (0, 2, 4, 8, or 12 weeks at 4 °C), a move-along experiment, and phenology studies. In the water imbibition experiment, the weight of the seeds increased by more than 120% in 24 h. Analysis of the internal and external morphological char-acteristics of the seed revealed that the embryo was already fully grown from the fruit and did not grow thereafter. The final germination percentages for cold stratification at 0, 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks at 4 °C were 12, 32, 59, 59, and 71%, respectively. In the move-along experiment and phe-nology studies, a longer low-temperature treatment period resulted in a higher germination percentage. However, the GA3 treatment had little effect on seed germination. Our results indi-cate that B. koreana exhibits intermediate physiological seed dormancy.
Intimate Partner Violence in the Orthopaedic Patient Population
Authors: Kunes Jennifer A. , Ulrich Marisa N. , Orr Charlotte E. , Cannada Lisa K. , Russo Christen M.
Published: April 2023

» Intimate partner violence (IPV) is under-reported and pervasive in the orthopaedic surgical setting.

» Screening programs that could increase reporting and assist in treatment and prevention are commonly underutilized.

» There is little formalized education during orthopaedic surgery training for IPV.

» The incidence of IPV continues to increase in the setting of recent stressors, such as COVID-19, and the orthopaedic surgeon should play a role in the screening and identification of patients presenting with IPV injuries and provide resources and referral.
Gamma Knife Radiosurgery - A Revolutionary Modality in the Treatment of Brain Tumors
Authors:   Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Neurospinal & Medical Institute, Karachi, Pakistan, Kamal Shahid
Published: April 2023

For delivering highly accurate radiation therapy with pin-point accuracy to brain tumors, radiosurgery employing Gamma Knife Radiosurgery technique is a revolutionary new armamentarium that enables delivering focused intense beam of gamma rays to brain lesions. Neither employing an actual knife nor surgery, it is called “surgery” because the results are as good, even better, than actual surgeries. Gamma Knife radiosurgery can be as effective in treating nerve conditions and blood vessel malformations as brain tumors [1] (Table 1). The tumor gradually shrinks after treatment that damages and destroys the tumor cell DNA that cannot grow or reproduce anymore.
Assessing Resilience in Healthcare Setups of Karachi using Connor Davidson Resilience Scale
Authors:   Department of Nursing, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan, Raza Hassan ,   Department of Business Management, Karachi University Business School, University of Karachi, Pakistan., Shah Nadia ,   Department of Public Health, School of Public Health, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan, Nazir Nazia ,   Department of Nursing, Sindh Government Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan., Ali Noman ,   Department of Nursing, Ziauddin University, Karachi, Pakistan.
Published: April 2023

Abstract: Background: Healthcare sector of Pakistan is complex and changing rapidly. This complex and transforming phase create more hurdles for employees especially for healthcare managers. During this transition phase, healthcare managers are burdened with more ncertainties and adversities. Managing under these circumstances is not an easy task as this requires frequent adaptations. One of the most important traits that can aid in these adaptations is resilience, which is ignored in healthcare management. Objectives: The first and main objective of the study is to assess the extent to which the healthcare managers are resilient. Secondly, to compare the resilience of public and private sector healthcare managers. At last, to assess the impact of gender, income and other demographic variables like age, socioeconomic status, marital status, education, designation, and work experience etc. Materials and Methods: It was a cross sectional study conducted at 13 different leading healthcare institutes of Karachi. These hospitals and healthcare services were divided broadly according to public and private sector categories. Employees were asked to complete structured questionnaire, a 25 item Connor Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) and demographic characteristics. Data were collected from 438 healthcare managers working at tertiary care hospitals in Karachi. Results: Health managers at both sectors were found resilient, with mean score of public sector and private sector were 52.55 (SD± 15.05), and 50.74 (SD± 14.15) respectively although the relationship was found insignificant relationship. Income, experience, designation, and worksite variables were significantly associated with resilience while age, gender, working hours, marital & socioeconomic status were insignificant. Conclusion: In conclusion, the healthcare managers working in both public and private sector were found resilient. There was no significant difference found in resilience of male and female healthcare managers. In addition demographic variables like age, marital status, socioeconomic status, and working hours showed no significant relationship with resilience while designation, income, working experience, and worksite variables showed significant relationship with resilience.
Correlation of βhCG Levels with Size of Gestational Sac in Patients of Ectopic Pregnancy Presenting to a Tertiary Care Health Facility
Authors:   Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, DHQ Hospital, Rawalpindi, Pakistan., Malik Sara , Nawaz Sobia ,   Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, DHQ Hospital, Rawalpindi, Pakistan., Rasheed Masooda ,   Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, DHQ Hospital, Rawalpindi, Pakistan., Nadeem Iqra ,   Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, DHQ Hospital, Rawalpindi, Pakistan, Shah Sajid Ali ,   Department of Pediatrics, National University of Medical Sciences, Rawalpindi, Pakistan., Nigar Falak ,   Department of Radiology, National University of Medical Sciences, Rawalpindi, Pakistan.
Published: April 2023

Abstract:The objective of this study was to determine correlation of β- HCG levels with size of gestational sac in patients of ectopic pregnancy presenting to a tertiary care health facility. Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, district headquarter Hospital, Rawalpindi from Jan 2019 to Jan 2020. This study involved 100 pregnant women aged between 20-40 years diagnosed of ectopic pregnancy on transvaginal ultrasound. Serum βhCG level was acquired in all these women while the size of gestational sac was measured on transvaginal ultrasound. Outcome variable was correlation between serum βhCG level and size of gestational sac on transvaginal ultrasound which was noted and compared across various subgroups of patients based on age, gestational age, site of ectopic pregnancy and presence/absence of fetal cardiac activity. Results: The mean age of the patients was 29.3±6.1 years while the mean gestational age was 5.1±1.1 weeks. Serum βhCG level ranged from 1647 mIU/mL to 18378 mIU/mL with a mean of 7968.4±4523.7 mIU/mL while the size of gestational sac on TVS ranged from 17 mm3 to 45 mm3 with a mean of 36.40±7.86 mm3. There was significantly strong positive correlation between serum βhCG and size of gestational sac on TVS (r=0.659; p- value<0.001). Conclusion: There was significantly strong positive correlation between serum βhCG and size of gestational sac on TVS (r=0.659; p-value<0.001).
Psoriasis and its Variants
Authors:   Department of Medicine, Islamic International Medical College, Rawalpindi, Pakistan., Khan Sana , Das Arghadip ,   Department of Medicine, Nilratan Sircar Medical College, Kolkata, India., Uddin Khalid Mahmood ,   Department of Neurology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, USA., Zia Shamail ,   Department of Pathology, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan., Khan Areij ,   Department of Dermatology, Fatimah Memorial College of Medicine and Dentistry, Lahore, Pakistan., Memon Marrium S. ,   Department of Pathology, City of Hope, California, USA, Hassan Danial ,   Department of Health Care Profession, Ministry of Public Health Qatar, Doha, Qatar, Naz Sharmeen ,   Department of Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan., Khalid Sarah ,   Department of Dermatology, Baqai Medical College, Karachi, Pakistan.
Published: April 2023

Abstract: Background: Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated, inflammatory illness of the skin which is quite common. The typical lesions are well demarcated, flaky and erythematous plaques that are frequently observed on the extensor regions. Psoriasis causes vasodilatation and hyper proliferation of keratinocytes expressed as thickened and erythematous skin, generally covered with silver gray scales. Although the etiology of this disease is not very clear, yet there may be genetic and environmental implications. There are a number of variants of psoriasis which include palm plantar, pustular, erythrodermic, and guttate types. Psoriasis is related to several systemic impediments and coexisting illnesses rendering a great effect on patients. Psoriasis displays coexistence of both autoimmune and auto inflammatory reactions and the stability between the two is important for clinical and histopathological demonstration. Chronic plaque psoriasis shows adaptive immune responses whereas pustular psoriasis displays innate a auto inflammatory responses. Histopathological analysis is the main diagnostic tool for atypical and controversial situations which aids in discerning psoriasis from other dermatoses; biopsy is seldom required for typical psoriasis.
Effect of Chromium (VI) on the Oxidation of Methylene Blue Dye by Fe3O4/ Chitosan Composite
Authors: Sadiq Yaman K. , Saleh Khulood A.
Published: April 2023

Heavy metal ion removal from industrial wastewater treatment systems is still difficult because it contains organic contaminants. In this study, functional composite hydrogels with photo Fenton reaction activity were used to decompose organic contaminants. Fe3O4 Nanoparticle, chitosan (CS), and other materials make up the hydrogel. There are different factors that affected Photo-Fenton activity including (pH, H2O2 conc., temp., and exposure period). Atomic force microscopy was used to examine the morphology of the composite and its average diameter (AFM). After 60 minutes of exposure to UV radiation, CS/ Fe3O4 hydrogel composite had degraded methylene blue (M.B.) dye by 92 percent. In the meantime, following an 1hour of visible irradiation, COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand) dropped to 6.1 mg/l.
Building a Statistical Model to Detect Foreground Objects and using it in Video Steganography
Authors: Jebur Mithal Hadi , Joda Fanar Ali , Naser Mohammed Abdullah
Published: April 2023

Video steganography has become a popular option for protecting secret data from hacking attempts and common attacks on the internet. However, when the whole video frame(s) are used to embed secret data, this may lead to visual distortion. This work is an attempt to hide sensitive secret image inside the moving objects in a video based on separating the object from the background of the frame, selecting and arranging them according to object's size for embedding secret image. The XOR technique is used with reverse bits between the secret image bits and the detected moving object bits for embedding. The proposed method provides more security and imperceptibility as the moving objects are used for embedding, so it is difficult to notice the changes in the moving objects instead of using background area for embedding in the video. The experimental results showed the better visual quality of the stego video with PSNR values exceeding 58 dB, this indicates that the proposed method works without causing much distortion in the original video and transmitted secret message.
Lumbar Calcifying Pseudoneoplasm as a Rare Cause of Cauda Equina Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: De Bonis Costanzo , Chaurasia Bipin
Published: April 2023

A calcifying pseudo-tumor of the spine, also called calcifying pseudoneoplasm of the neuraxis (CAPNON), is a rare non-neoplastic lesion that can occur anywhere in the central nervous system. Although CAPNON shows tumor-like behavior, it is believed to be benign and of inflammatory-reactive origin. It may cause many neurologic symptoms by compressing adjacent structures. We report the case of a 45-year-old man who presented with cauda equina syndrome. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a partially calcified mass compressing the spinal cord. Gross total resection was carried out and the patient’s symptoms improved. Histopathology proved that the mass was CAPNON. Although spinal localization of CAPNON is rare, we should know and recognize this entity based on appropriate imaging findings because radical excision has an excellent prognosis.
Roles for wildlife in the development of place meanings ascribed to a protected area
Authors: Salcido Evan L. , Riper Carena J. van , Stewart William P. , Leitschuh Benjamin A.
Published: April 2023

Wildlife play prominent roles in popular images of America’s outdoor landscapes, yet our understanding of their contribution to place meanings is not fully developed. Although environmental management agencies have a long history of stewarding wildlife for hunting and fishing, they have been less inclined to prioritize non-consumptive uses such as the contribution of wildlife to sense of place. Given that agencies are increasingly challenged to implement policies that align with citizen priorities, connecting wildlife to sense of place could lead to more effective decisions. Our research explored the plurality of connections that residents made with wildlife in multiple protected areas across the USA region of Interior Alaska. Residents of nine communities were engaged over a five-year period, followed by a thematic analysis of interview data, which resulted in the identification of seven place meaning themes. These themes reflected qualities of the local environment that were appreciated by residents, including: 1) desirable travel destination, 2) distinct sense of community, 3) landscape of subsistence and tradition, 4) landscape of wildlife habitat, 5) natural resources in need of harvesting, 6) rural Alaskan lifestyle, and 7) wildland areas tied to recreation. Native wildlife species – from traditionally charismatic species like moose (Alces alces) to less iconic species such as snowshoe hare (Lepus americanus) – were discussed in the context of all seven place meaning themes. Wildlife provided a basis for study participants to interpret landscapes and ascribe meanings to places, thus supporting our argument that shared influences of wildlife and place meanings should be prioritized in environmental planning and management.
Hospital factors associated with survival of infants born at periviable gestation: The USA National Database
Authors: Qattea Ibrahim , Farghaly Mohsen A.A. , Quatei Amani , Abdalla Alshimaa , Mohamed Mohamed A. , Aly Hany
Published: April 2023

Background Reports on survival of infants born at periviable gestation (GA ≤ 24 weeks and birth weight < 500gm) vary significantly. We aimed to determine hospital factors associated with their survival and to assess the trend for the timing of postnatal mortality in these periviable infants.Methods We utilized the de-identified National Inpatient Sample (NIS) dataset from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project (HCUP) from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). National data were analyzed for the years 2010–2018. Hospitals were categorized according to delivery volume, USA regions, and teaching status.Results We identified 33,998,014 infants born during the study period; 76,231 infants were ≤ 24 weeks. Survival was greatest in urban teaching hospitals in infants < 24 weeks and completed 24 weeks, respectively. The Northeast region has the lowest survival rate. There was a significant delay in the postnatal day of mortality in periviable infants.Conclusions Hospital factors are associated with increased survival rates. Improved survival in large teaching hospitals supports the need for regionalization of care in infants born at the limits of viability. There was a significant delay in the postnatal mortality day.
A Randomized Control Trial to support smoke-free policy compliance in public housing
Authors: Hernández Diana , Khan Farzana Yasmin , Albert DDS MPH David , Giovenco Daniel , Branas Charles , Valeri Linda , Navas-Acien
Published: April 2023

• Background
Smoke-free housing policies in multiunit housing are increasingly widespread interventions to reduce smoking and secondhand smoke exposure. Little research has identified factors that impede compliance with smoke-free housing policies in low-income multiunit housing and test corresponding solutions.
• Methods
We are using an experimental design to test two compliance support interventions: (A) a “compliance through reduction (via relocation and reduction in personal smoking) and cessation” intervention targets households with smokers and involves support to shift smoking practices to designated areas, reduce personal smoking, and deliver in-residence smoking cessation support services via trained peer educators and (B) a “compliance through resident endorsement” intervention involving voluntary adoption of smoke-free living environments through personal pledges, visible door markers and/or via social media. We will compare randomly sampled participants in buildings that receive A or B or A plus B to the NYCHA standard approach,
• Discussion
This RCT addresses key gaps in knowledge and capitalizes on key scientific opportunities by: 1) leveraging the federal mandate to ban smoking in a public housing system of more than sufficient size to conduct an adequately powered RCT; 2) expanding our understanding of smoke-free policy compliance beyond policy implementation by testing two novel treatments: a) in-residence smoking cessation and b) resident endorsement, while 3) addressing population and location-specific tobacco-related disparities. At the conclusion of the study, this RCT will have leveraged a monumental policy shift affecting nearly half a million NYC public housing residents, many of whom disproportionately experience chronic illness and are more likely to smoke and be exposed to secondhand smoke than other city residents. This first-ever RCT will test the effects of much-needed compliance strategies on resident smoking behavior and secondhand smoke exposure in multiunit housing.
Trial registration:
Clinical Trials Registered, NCT05016505
Registered: August 23, 2021
https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05016505
Overcrowding induces fast colloidal solitons in a slowly rotating potential landscape
Authors: Tierno Pietro , Cereceda-López Eric , Antonov Alexander , Ryabov Artem , Maass Philipp
Published: April 2023

Collective particle transport across periodic
energy landscapes is ubiquitously present
in many condensed matter systems spanning from
vortices in high-temperature superconductors, frictional atomic sliding, driven skyrmions to biological and active matter.
Here we report the emergence of fast solitons propagating against a rotating optical landscape. These experimentally observed solitons are stable cluster waves that originate from a coordinated particle exchange process which occurs when the number of trapped microparticles exceeds the number of potential wells. The size and speed of individual solitons rapidly increase with the particle diameter as predicted by theory and confirmed by numerical simulations. We show that when several solitons coexist, an effective repulsive interaction can stabilize their propagation along the periodic potential.
Our experiments demonstrate a generic mechanism for cluster-mediated transport with potential applications to condensed matter systems on different length scales.
Coagulation Status in Women with a History of Missed Abortion
Authors: Chen Dandan , Wang JunXiong , Liu Hongchao , Xu Tong , Qiao Jiao , Liu Qi , Tan Yuan , Li ZiJing , Cui Liyan , Yang Shuo
Published: April 2023

The purpose of this study was to assess the status of coagulation function in a large series of reproductive-age women with a history of missed abortion in China. Likewise, we want to explore the association between coagulation and missed abortions, in order to evaluate whether they could be used as early predictive factors for missed abortions.
A total of 11182 women who suffered from missed abortion from Peking University Third Hospital and 5298 healthy age-matched reproductive-age women were enrolled in our study. Coagulation function tests (prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time), fibrinolysis status detection (fibrinogen, D-Dimer), anticoagulation function tests (protein C, protein S and antithrombin III) and lupus anticoagulants (LAC) were examined. In addition, platelet counts were detected by automated hematology analyzer. Platelet aggregation (PAgT) were tested by light transmission aggregometry (LTA).Compared with healthy reproductive-age women, the level of D-Dimer, dRVVT-R, PC, PAgT and platelet count were higher, and the antithrombin III (AT-III) activity was lower in women with a history of missed abortion. (P<0.05). 13.1% patients with a history of missed abortion were positive for LAC, and platelet aggregation rates were increased in 47.4% patients. Moreover, multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that D-Dimer, dRVVT-R, AT-III, PC and PAgT had significant predictive value for missed abortion. In addition, a model based on coagulation function tests for predicting missed abortion was developed. These findings provide evidence of hypercoagulability in patients with a history of missed abortion. Lupus anticoagulant, PAgT and D-Dimer were the strongest predictors of missed abortion.
Persistence is driven by a prefrontal motor circuit
Authors: Sun Qianquan , Wang Yihan
Published: April 2023

Persistence provides a long-lasting effect on actions, including avoiding predators and storing energy, and hence is crucial for the survival (Adolphs and Anderson, 2018). However, how the brain loads persistence on movements is unknown. Here, we demonstrate that being persistent is determined at the initial phase of movement, and this persistency will be sustained until the terminal signaling. The neural coding of persistent movement phases (initial or terminal) is independent from the judgement (i.e. valence) (Li et al., 2022; Wang et al., 2018) upon the external stimuli. Next, we identify a group of dorsal medial prefrontal cortex (dmPFC) motor cortex projecting (MP) neurons (Wang and Sun, 2021), which encodes the initial phase of a persistent movement rather than the valence. Inactivation of dmPFC MP neurons impairs the initiation of persistency and reduce the neural activity in the insular and motor cortex. Finally, a MP network-based computational model suggests that an intact, successive sensory stimulus acts as a triggering signal to direct the initiation of persistent movements. These findings reveal a neural mechanism that transforms the brain state from neutral to persistent during a movement.
General population normative data from seven European countries for the K10 and K6 scales for psychological distress
Authors: Lehmann Jens , Pilz Micha Johannes , Holzner Bernhard , Kemmler Georg , Giesinger Johannes M.
Published: April 2023

Background
The 10-item Kessler Psychological Distress scale (K10) and its 6-item short-form version (K6) measure psychological distress, particularly anxiety or depressive symptoms. While these questionnaire scales are widely used in various settings and populations, general population normative data are rarely available. To facilitate the interpretation of K10 and K6 scores, we provide normative general population data from seven European countries.
Methods
We used an online survey to collect K10 data from general population samples in Austria, Italy, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Poland and Spain. We calculated the age- and sex-specific normative values separately for each country. For more specific estimates of K10 and K6 scores for individuals or groups, we also established a multivariable regression model based on socio-demographic and health data.
Results
In total, N=7,087 adults participated in our study (51.6% women; mean age, 49.6 years). The mean K10 score in the total sample was 8.5 points (standard deviation, 7.3) on 0-40 points metric, with mean scores in individual countries ranging from 6.9 (the Netherlands) to 9.9 (Spain). Women showed higher scores then men and younger participants scored higher than older participants.
Conclusions
Our study is the first to present normative K10 data from several European countries using a consistent sampling approach. These reference values will facilitate the interpretation of K10 and K6 scores in clinical research and practice and also highlight the variation in psychological distress levels across countries and groups according to their socio-demographic and health characteristics.
A New Approach for Simulating Inhomogeneous Chemical Kinetics
Authors: Bradshaw Georgia , O'Leary Mel , Purser Arthur , Villagomez-Bernabe Balder , Wyett Cyrus , Currell Frederick , Webb Marcus
Published: April 2023

In this paper, inhomogeneous chemical kinetics are simulated by describing the concentrations of interacting chemical species by a linear expansion of basis functions in such a manner that the coupled reaction and diffusion processes are propagated through time efficiently by tailor-made numerical methods. The approach is illustrated through modelling α− and γ−radiolysis in thin layers of water and at their solid interfaces from the start of the chemical phase until equilibrium was established. The method’s efficiency is such that hundreds of such systems can be modelled in a few hours using a single core of a typical laptop, allowing the investigation of the effects of the underlying parameter space. Illustrative calculations showing the effects of changing dose-rate and water-layer thickness are presented. Other simulations are presented which show the approach’s capability to solve problems with spherical symmetry (an approximation to an isolated radiolytic spur), where the hollowing out of an initial Gaussian distribution is observed, in line with previous calculations. These illustrative simulations show the generality and the computational efficiency of this approach to solving reaction-diffusion problems. Furthermore, these example simulations illustrate the method’s suitability for simulating solid-fluid interfaces, which have received a lot of experimental attention in contrast to the lack of computational studies.
The Cryo-EM structure of renal amyloid fibril suggests structurally homogeneous multiorgan aggregation in AL amyloidosis
Authors: Ricagno Stefano , Puri Sarita , Schulte Tim , Chaves-Sanjuan Antonio , Mazzini Giulia , Caminito Serena , Pappone Carlo , Anastasia Luigi , Milani Paolo , merlini Giampaolo , Bolognesi Martino , Nuvolone Mario , Palladini Giovanni
Published: April 2023

Immunoglobulin light chain amyloidosis (AL) is caused by the aberrant production of amyloidogenic light chains (LC) that accumulate as amyloid deposits in vital organs. Distinct LC sequences in each patient yield distinct amyloid structures. However different tissue microenvironments may also cause identical protein precursors to adopt distinct amyloid structures. To address the impact of the tissue environment on structural polymorphism of amyloids, we extracted fibrils from the kidney of an AL patient (AL55) whose cardiac amyloid structure was previously determined by our group. Here we show that the 4.0 Å resolution cryo-EM structure of the renal fibril is virtually identical to that reported for the cardiac fibril. These results provide the first structural evidence that LC amyloids independently deposited in different organs of the same AL patient share a common fold.
Mounting Nutritional and Environmental Pressures of the Global Food Loss and Waste Call for Urgent Policy Action
Authors: Gatto Alessandro , Chepeliev Maksym
Published: April 2023

Food losses and waste (FLW) are at the core of secure and sustainable food systems. A consistent quantification of the FLW across food supply chains at the global level, however, remains a major challenge. In this study, we compile a comprehensive database that assesses FLW across global value chains and quantifies the nutritional and environmental impact of lost and discarded food for 121 countries and 20 composite regions using a multi-region input-output framework. Our findings reveal a substantial increase in FLW across global regions between 2004 and 2014, with plant-based FLW being primarily concentrated in regions with poor recycling facilities. Nutritional losses have principally increased in low-income countries, with the global south accounting for over 70% of global land use, 82% of water use, and 76% of greenhouse-gas emissions embedded in FLW. Policies should focus on reducing domestic waste at the final consumption stage in high-income regions and on decreasing large farm-level losses in middle- and low-income countries. Here, while promoting the profitable reuse of unavoidable FLW, policies should increase agricultural production efficiency to enhance water and nutritional security.
A Muti-band Polarizataion Convertor With Dual Functionalities Based on a Asymmetric Cruciform Shaped Metasurface at Terahertz Frequency
Authors: Devi Mrs B. Rama , Sai K. Jyothir , Keerthi B. , Raviteja S. , Vamsi M. Surya
Published: April 2023

In this paper, a terahertz wave polarization converter is proposed as the metasurface. Resonators in a cross form make up the unit cell. The suggested metasurface performs as a linear to cross polarization converter with a polarization conversion ratio more than 95% and ellipticity zero for the reflected wave at the frequency bands 0.8726 ~ 0.8924 THz, 1.1075 ~ 1.1147 THz, and 1.2614 ~ 1.2731 THz. It also demonstrates the traits of a linear to circular polarization converter over frequency ranges of 0.516 ~ 0.862 THz, 0.947 ~ 0.986 THz, and 1.986 ~ 1.203 THz. For these three frequency ranges, the reflected wave's ellipticity is between − 1 and + 1. Up to 500 degrees of oblique incidence, the suggested metasurface is angularly stable. Surface current distribution and multiple interference theory are used to investigate the fundamental mechanism of polarization conversion. The converter has potential uses in terahertz detection, assessing the absorption spectrum of complex biological samples, and satellite communication due to its straightforward structure, angular stability, and dual functionality.