bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantifying the Role of Model Internal Year-to-Year Variability in Estimating Anthropogenic Aerosol Radiative Effects
Authors: Shi Xiangjun , Zeng Yuxi
Published: November 2023

The model internal year-to-year variability (hereafter, internal variability) is a significant source of uncertainty when estimating anthropogenic aerosol effective radiative forcing (ERF). In this study, we investigate the impact of internal variability using large ensemble simulations (600 years in total) with the same climate model under prescribed anthropogenic aerosol forcings. A comparison of the magnitudes (i.e., standard deviation, Std) of these influences confirms that internal variability has negligible impacts on the instantaneous radiative forcing (RF) diagnosed by double radiation calls but has considerable impacts on estimating ERF through rapid adjustments (ADJ). Approximately half of the model grids exhibit strong internal variability influence on ERF (Std > 5 W m−2). These strong internal variabilities lead to a 50% probability that 30-year linear change can reach 2 W m−2, and 10-year linear change can reach 4 W m−2. A 50-year simulation can provide a relatively stable annual mean map of ERF (ERF = ADJ + RF), but it fails for ADJ. The statistically significant areas in the annual mean maps of both ERF and ADJ from a 10-year simulation exhibit instability with evident chaotic features. These analyses contribute to the setup of comparative experiments and a more comprehensive understanding of the modeled anthropogenic aerosol ERF.
Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastasis – State of the Art and Future Perspectives
Authors: Ruivo Ana , Oliveira Rui Caetano , Silva-Vaz Pedro , Tralhão And José Guilherme
Published: November 2023

The current management of colorectal cancer liver metastasis (CRCLM) patients involves a multidisciplinary approach with surgical resection remaining the primary curative option. The advances in liver surgery have improved outcomes, enabling more patients to undergo surgery successfully. In addition, the development of imaging software has improved the preoperative planning and patient selection for surgery and other interventions. Systemic therapies, such as targeted therapies and immunotherapies have enhanced the chances of complete resection. Targeted agents in combination with chemotherapy, have shown efficacy in downstaging tumors and increasing resectability.
Outcome Measures Utilized to Assess the Efficacy of Tele Rehabilitation for Post‐Stroke Rehabilitation: A Scoping Review
Authors: Shariat Ardalan , Najafabadi Mahboubeh Ghayour , Nakhostin Ansari Noureddin , Anastasio Albert T. , Bagheri Kian , Hassanzadeh Gholamreza , Farghadan Mahsa
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Outcome measures using telerehabilitation (TR) in the context of post-stroke rehabilitation is an area of emerging research. The current review assesses the literature related to TR for patients requiring post-stroke rehabilitation. The purpose of this study additionally is to survey the outcome measures used in TR studies and to define which parts of the International Organization of Functioning are measured in trials.
Methods: TR studies were searched in Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science from 2016 to June 2023. Two reviewers individually assessed the full text. Disagreements about inclusion or exclusion were determined by consensus or by checking with a third reviewer.
Results: A total of 24 studies were included in the current review. The results were synthesized and reported considering the implications of the results within clinical practice, areas of investigation, and strategic implementation.
Conclusions: The current scoping review recognized a wide range of outcome measures used in TR studies and helped elucidate gaps in the current use of outcome measures in the literature. The scoping review also informs researchers and end users (i.e. clinicians and policymakers) regarding the most suitable outcome measures for TR.
Stock assessment and population parameters for Triportheus spp. and Pellona flavipinnis in floodplain lakes, central of Amazon, Brazil
Authors: Salomão Clara Brito , Gonçalves Vitor Dalmacio , Soares Jessyana Maria de Sousa , Oliveira Marcos Sidney Brito , Soares Maria Gercilia Mota , Prestes Luiza
Published: November 2023

It is essential to provide data on fish stocks, especially those that appeared more recently on fishing landings. The present study estimated growth, mortality and evaluated the fish stock of Triportheus albus, Triportheus angulatus, Triportheus auratus, and Pellona flavipinnis in floodplain lakes in central Amazon, Manaus (AM), Brazil. Samplings were carried out monthly between 2006 and 2007 and bimonthly until 2008 using gillnets. We evaluated the growth parameters (L∞, k, t0, t_achor, Ø, A0.95), natural, total, and fishing mortality, exploitation rate, and yield per recruit. The results showed T. auratus had the lowest estimated current fishing mortality pressure, while T. angulatus and T. albus had the highest fishing mortality pressure. It indicates that T. angulatus and T. albus are heavily exploited commercially. Considering current fishing mortality, T. angulatus and T. albus presented values above the maximum sustainable yield, indicating that these species are being exploited in an unsustainable way. This was the first time these fisheries stocks were evaluated. Despite the data being from a few years ago, these values are the only available and may be the baseline for the fisheries management plans.
Clinical Outcomes and Complications of 2-Stage Septic Versus Aseptic Revision Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Kim Sang-Gyun , Kim Hwa Pyung , Bae Ji Hoon
Published: November 2023

Background:

Although several studies have compared the clinical outcomes of septic and aseptic revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA), their results have been controversial. Therefore, this study aimed to compare clinical outcomes and complications of septic and aseptic revision TKA through a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods:

The PubMed (MEDLINE) and Embase databases were searched for studies evaluating the clinical outcomes and complications of 2-stage septic revision and aseptic revision TKAs. A systematic review of clinical outcomes (Knee Society Knee and Function Scores and range of motion) and complications (reoperation, infection, and failure rates) was conducted.

Results:

Thirteen studies were included in the systematic review. The mean MINORS (Methodological Index for NOn-Randomized Studies) score of the included studies was 20.5 (range, 18 to 22). The meta-analysis revealed higher reoperation (risk ratio [RR], 1.98; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.50 to 2.62; p < 0.00001), infection (RR, 4.08; 95% CI, 2.94 to 5.64; p < 0.00001), and failure rates (RR, 2.88; 95% CI, 1.38 to 6.03; p = 0.005) in septic revision TKAs than in aseptic revision TKAs. Moreover, septic revision TKAs showed lower Knee Society Knee Scores compared with aseptic TKAs (mean difference [MD], −6.86; 95% CI, −11.80 to −1.92; p = 0.006). However, the Knee Society Function Score (MD, −1.84; 95% CI, −7.84 to 3.80; p = 0.52) and range of motion (MD, −6.96°; 95% CI, −16.23° to 2.31°; p = 0.14) were not significantly different between septic and aseptic revision TKAs.

Conclusions:

Despite the heterogeneity of prosthesis designs and surgical protocols used in septic and aseptic revision TKAs, the results of this systematic review suggest that 2-stage septic revision TKAs have poorer clinical outcomes and higher complication rates than aseptic revision TKAs do.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Mathematical model of the control system of mobile caterpillar robot taking into account kinematic and dynamic parameters
Authors: Pauliukavets S. A. , Velchenko A. A. , Radkevich A. A.
Published: November 2023

The paper developed a mathematical model of the control system for a mobile tracked robot, which takes into account the kinematic parameters (angular speeds of rotation of the rollers and the center of mass of the robot, the linear speed of the robot and its angle of rotation relative to the normal to the axis) and dynamic parameters (moments of inertia, resistance forces and electromechanical parameters used electric motors), which made it possible to give the most complete mathematical representation of the description of the movement of a caterpillar mobile robot. A control system for mobile robots along a predetermined trajectory is obtained, taking into account position feedback.
Using SpaceClaim scripts to create training models
Authors: Naprasnikov V. V. , Wang Zirui , Kovaleva I. L. , Novikov S. N.
Published: November 2023

One of the possible approaches in the formation of the geometric part of the finite-element model in the process of teaching students is the use of the language IronPython in SpaceClaim environment with the purpose of subsequent modeling on the platform ANSYS WorkBench. The comparative advantages of Design Modeler and SpaceClaim for such a problem are described. An example of using this approach in a real learning process is given.
Dudas e incertidumbres a propósito dela adquisición, enajenación o aportación a otra sociedad de activos esenciales en las sociedades de capital
Authors: Ortiz del Valle Mª del Carmen
Published: November 2023

La Ley 31/2014, de 3 de diciembre, por la que se modifica de la Ley de Sociedades de Capital para la mejora del gobierno corporativo, introduce una nueva competencia de la junta general junto a las ya previstas anteriormente. En virtud de esta modificación es competencia de la junta general deliberar y acordar sobre la adquisición, la enajenación o la aportación a otra sociedad de activos esenciales. La finalidad perseguida con la atribución de esta facultad a la junta general es la de reservar a la misma la aprobación de aquellas operaciones que, por su relevancia patrimonial, puedan producir efectos similares a las modificaciones estructurales. No obstante, son diversos los interrogantes que plantea.
Existence of solutions for second-order $\phi$-Laplacian nonlinear impulsive bvps on the half-line
Authors: Zerki Ali
Published: November 2023

The present paper is concerned with the existence of solutions for a $\phi-$Laplacian nonlinear boundary value problem (bvp) set on the half-line of second-order differential equation:
\begin{equation*}
(\phi (r'(t)))'
+g(t,r(t),r'(t))=0 ,\quad\text{a.e. } t\in [ 0,+\infty )\backslash \{t_{1},t_{2},\ldots\},
\end{equation*}
with the boundary conditions,
\begin{equation*}
r(0)=A,\quad r'(+\infty )=B,
\end{equation*}
where $g:[0,+\infty )\times \mathbb{R}^{2}\to \mathbb{R}$ is an $L^{1}$-Carath\'eodory function,
and the impulsive conditions are Carathéodory sequences. We use the Schauder fixed point theorem to get our result.
Peripheral sequestration of huntingtin delays neuronal death and depends on N-terminal ubiquitination
Authors: Ziv Noam , Boulos Ayub , Maroun Dunia , Ciechanover Aaron
Published: November 2023

Huntington’s disease (HD) is caused by a glutamine repeat expansion in the protein huntingtin. The mutated protein (mHtt) forms aggregates whose impacts on neuronal survival are still debated. Using weeks-long, continual imaging of individual cortical neurons, we find that mHtt is gradually sequestrated into peripheral, mainly axonal aggregates, concomitant with dramatic reductions in cytosolic mHtt levels and enhanced neuronal survival. in-situ pulse-chase imaging reveals that aggregates continually gain and lose mHtt, in line with these acting as mHtt sinks at equilibrium with cytosolic pools. Preventing ubiquitination at two N-terminal lysines observed only in HD animal models suppresses peripheral aggregate formation and reductions in cytosolic mHtt, promotes nuclear aggregate formation, stabilizes aggregates and leads to pervasive neuronal death. These findings demonstrate the capacity of aggregates formed at peripheral locations to sequester away cytosolic, presumably toxic mHtt forms and support a crucial role for N-terminal ubiquitination in promoting these processes and delaying neuronal death.
Do evidence-based fact boxes improve informed decision-making about COVID-19 and influenza vaccination in more and less disadvantaged groups equally? - Study protocol for a multi-centre cluster randomised controlled trial in health and social care in Germany
Authors: Ellermann Christin , Rebitschek Felix G.
Published: November 2023

Background
Evidence-based fact boxes have been shown to support informed decision-making. However, few studies have analysed how the boxes support decision-making in different social groups. Further, it is unclear whether fact boxes promote informed and shared decision making equally when implemented by health educators (HE) in different settings. Hence, there is a risk that fact boxes will only help less disadvantaged people to make informed health decisions. The aim of our study is to assess whether fact boxes can help people from different social groups make informed decisions about COVID-19 and influenza vaccination, and whether they contribute to reducing inequities in health care.
Methods
In a multi-centre cluster randomised controlled trial, HE from usual care (e.g. doctors) and outreach work (e.g. from social services) in Germany will be recruited. HE who are randomized to receive the intervention will receive a flyer with a QR code and a link to an online survey to pass on to those who are about to make a vaccination decision. The back of the flyer contains an evidence-based fact box about COVID-19 or the influenza vaccine, which can be used to inform. HE who are randomized to control will receive the flyer without the fact box. The flyer and online study will be available in Arabic, German, Turkish and Russian language.
The primary outcome is informed vaccination intention, based on vaccination knowledge, attitudes, vaccination intentions and behaviour. Secondary outcomes include risk perception, decisional conflict and shared decision making. The statistical analysis plan includes the selection of appropriate measures of effect size, sample size calculation, and significance testing.
Discussion
Failing to consider inequalities when developing and evaluating interventions that influence health decisions - such as evidence-based health information - exacerbates health inequities. The aim of our study is to find out whether evidence-based fact boxes developed with an equity lens work well in different settings where health communication takes place. The results will help determine if and how fact boxes can be used to improve health care in and outside of traditional primary care structures, especially for disadvantaged groups, and will thus provide valuable insights into advancing health care equity.
Trial registration: clinicaltrials.gov (NCT06076421)
Concurrent non-invasive neuromodulation therapies in new-onset super refractory status epilepticus
Authors: León-Vázquez Máximo , Salmeron-Mendoza Allan Natanael , Hernandez-Juarez Leticia , Orozco-Suarez Sandra , Zapata-Mendez Ivan Guadalupe , San-Juan Daniel
Published: November 2023

Super-refractory status epilepticus (SRSE) is a severe neurological condition. We present a 32-year-old woman with SRSE secondary to N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor autoimmune encephalitis. She received simultaneous cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation over the right frontocentral ictal region and the Mozart effect using a smartphone. Pre- and post-intervention EEG recordings were conducted. Following the interventions, ictal epileptiform activity vanished, halting seizures, albeit with persistent encephalopathy. Sadly, SRSE re-emerged, successfully treated thrice, but the patient succumbed to sepsis. This unique approach signifies the first evidence of c-tDCS and the Mozart effect offering transient EEG improvement in SRSE related to NMDAR encephalitis.
Withaferin A Modulation of Microglia Autophagy Mitigates Neuroinflammation and Enhances Cognitive Function in POCD
Authors: Zhu Hong , Wei Gen , Huang Dan , Lin Yue , Zhou Bin , Yin Jun , Hua Fuzhou , Zhang Lieliang
Published: November 2023

With the aging process of the global population and the development of medical technology, the cases of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) are also increasing. Due to the complexity of the pathogenesis, urgent treatment has been sought. Neuroinflammation induced by the accumulation of lipid droplets (LDs) in microglia has been closely watched in recent years and is also considered to be an important cause of nerve damage. Our study found that derived from Withania somnifera, Withaferin A (WA) could reduce the accumulation of LDs in the hippocampus of POCD mice, inhibit the expression of inflammatory factor interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and improve the cognitive ability of mice. Further in vitro experimental studies showed that WA increased the autophagy level of microglia, promoted the degradation of LDs, and reduced the production of inflammatory factors. In this regard, our comprehensive research endeavor holds the potential to furnish novel insights into therapeutic strategies aimed at addressing POCD and its associated neural impairments.
Sex drives colonic mucin sialylation in wild mice
Authors: Bennett Alexander R. , Mair Iris , Muir Andrew , Smith Hannah , Logunova Larisa , Wolfenden Andrew , Fenn Jonathan , Lowe Ann E. , Bradley Janette E. , Else Kathryn J. , Thornton David J.
Published: November 2023

Mucin protein glycosylation is important in determining biological properties of mucus gels, which form protective barriers at mucosal surfaces of the body such as the intestine. Ecological factors including: age, sex, and diet can change mucus barrier properties by modulating mucin glycosylation. However, as our understanding stems from controlled laboratory studies in house mice, the combined influence of ecological factors on mucin glycosylation in real-world contexts remains limited. In this study, we used histological staining with ‘Alcian Blue, Periodic Acid, Schiff’s’ and ‘High-Iron diamine’ to assess the acidic nature of mucins stored within goblet cells of the intestine, in a wild mouse population (Mus musculus). Using statistical models, we identified sex as among the most influential ecological factors determining the acidity of intestinal mucin glycans in wild mice. Our data from wild mice and experiments using laboratory mice suggest estrogen signalling associates with an increase in the relative abundance of sialylated mucins. Thus, estrogen signalling may underpin sex differences observed in the colonic mucus of wild and laboratory mice. These findings highlight the significant influence of ecological parameters on mucosal barrier sites and the complementary role of wild populations in augmenting standard laboratory studies in the advancement of mucus biology.
Analyzing Socio-Environmental Determinants of Bone and Soft Tissue Cancer in Indonesia
Authors: Romadhon Yusuf Alam , Kurniati Yuni Prastyo , Jumadi Jumadi , Aleshikh Ali Asghar , Lotfata Aynaz
Published: November 2023

Background
This study is designed to explore the potential impact of individual and environmental residential factors as risk determinants for bone and soft tissue cancers, with a particular focus on the Indonesian context. While it is widely recognized that our living environment can significantly influence cancer development, there has been a notable scarcity of research into how specific living environment characteristics relate to the risk of bone and soft tissue cancers.
Methods
In a cross-sectional study, we analyzed the medical records of oncology patients treated at Prof. Suharso National Referral Orthopedic Hospital. The study aimed to assess tumor malignancy levels and explore the relationships with socio-environmental variables, including gender, distance from the sea, sunrise time, altitude, and population density. Data were gathered in 2020 from diverse sources, including medical records, Google Earth, and local statistical centers. The statistical analyses employed Chi-square and logistic regression techniques with the support of Predictive Analytics SoftWare (PASW) Statistics 18.
Results
Both bivariate and multivariate analyses revealed two significant factors associated with the occurrence of bone and soft tissue cancer. Age exhibited a statistically significant influence (aOR – adjusted odds ratios = 3.270, p = 0.000), indicating a robust connection between cancer development and age. Additionally, residing within a distance of less than 14 kilometers from the sea significantly affected the likelihood of bone and soft tissue cancers (aOR = 2.416, p = 0.029).
Conclusions
The study underscores the strong association between age and the development of these cancers, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance and screening measures in older populations. Moreover, the proximity to the sea emerges as another noteworthy factor influencing cancer risk, suggesting potential environmental factors at play. These results highlight the multifaceted nature of cancer causation and underscore the importance of considering socio-environmental variables when assessing cancer risk factors. Such insights can inform more targeted prevention and early detection strategies, ultimately contributing to improved cancer management and patient outcomes.
Growth Characteristics of Natural Magnesium Garlic with High Zinc Content and Enzyme Application Research
Authors: Hung Fei-Shuo
Published: November 2023

Garlic is a widely cultivated crop that contains numerous chemical compounds with health benefits. Both magnesium and zinc are essential nutrients for the human body. Increasing the magnesium content in garlic could stabilize the allicin enzyme, preventing its decomposition or release. Moreover, increasing the zinc content in garlic could enhance its antioxidative properties and health benefits; additionally, zinc plays a vital role in the synthesis of various hormones. In this study, we powdered serpentine derived from natural sources and treated it by microwaving and sintering to enhance its crystallinity as well as its magnesium and zinc ion release rates. The powder was then used to produce a magnesium–zinc solution for cultivating garlic. The growth and garlic enzyme activity of the garlic were then examined. The results revealed that microwaving and sintering the serpentine powder reduced its impurities, enhanced its crystallinity (including surface area), and increased the magnesium and zinc ion release rates. When the cultivation solution was prepared using the powder that was microwaved and then sintered (400°C for 1 h), it exhibited the same beneficial properties as if the solution had been prepared with natural magnesium and zinc ions. The enriched garlic contained 32–41 mg/L of magnesium and10-15 mg/L of zine. It also exhibited more garlic glands and higher sulfide content compared with regular garlic. After air drying, the garlic glands of the enriched garlic remained intact and had high moisture content, indicating its high nutritional value and antioxidative properties. Furthermore, an enriched garlic enzyme extract had an approximately 8-fold increase in alliinase activity compared with an unenriched extract.
An ectopic hepatocellular carcinoma arising from the gallbladder: a rare case report
Authors: Wan Da-Long , Hua Chen-guang , Tong Xin-yu , Yang Xu , Hu Chen , Hu Qing , Ke Qing-Hong , Shen Yan
Published: November 2023

Background: Ectopic liver (EL) refers to the presence of hepatic tissue outside its normal anatomical location. EL is predominantly localized in the gallbladder, and is prone to hepatocarcinogenesis. However, only a solitary case of ectopic hepatocellular carcinoma (EHCC) arising within the gallbladder has been reported. The uncharacteristic clinical manifestations and abnormal pathological features make it difficult to achieve pre-pathological diagnosis.
Case presentation: We present a forty-year-old Asian female patient with an untreated medical history of hepatitis B, who presented to the hospital with a complaint of elevated α-fetoprotein (AFP) levels. Both of computed tomography arteriography (CTA) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed an 1.6cm exogenous nodule in the liver, projecting into the gallbladder fossa. The patient ultimately underwent surgical resection, with histologically confirmation of moderately differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma. No signs of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence were observed after a seven-month follow-up.
Conclusions: Herein, retrospective analysis of a rare case of ectopic hepatocellular carcinoma is presented, along with a comprehensive review of the clinical history and prognosis of 24 cases of abdominal EHCC. The combination of AFP levels and advanced imaging techniques facilitates the accurate identification of EHCC. Surgery, in most cases, yields satisfactory outcome.
Stress-Induced Failure of Embodied Cognition
Authors: Wallace Rodrick , Fricchione Gregory
Published: November 2023

We derive the classic Yerkes-Dodson effect of applied stress on real-world performance in a highly natural manner from fundamental assumptions on cognition and its dynamics, as constrained by the asymptotic limit theorems of information and control theories. We further examine how differences in an underlying cognitive probability model might associate with different expressions of psychopathology. Vulnerability to psychopathology is framed as a ratio of toxic stress in the context of ‘noise’ and uncertainty to resilience. A ‘thin tailed’ underlying distribution appears to characterize expression of ‘ordinary’ situational depression/anxiety symptoms induced by stress, while a ‘fat tailed’ underlying distribution appears to be associated with brain structure and function abnormalities leading to serious mental illness where symptoms are not only emerging in the setting of severe stress but may emerge in a highly punctuated manner at relatively lower levels of stress. A simple hierarchical optimization model explores the effects of environmental ‘shadow price’ constraints in buffering or aggravating the effects of stress. Extension of the underlying theory to other patterns of pathology, like immune disorders and premature aging, seems apt. Ultimately, the probability models studied here can be converted to new statistical tools for the analysis of observational and experimental data.
Implantable theranostic device for in vivo real-time NMR evaluation of drug impact: application to brain tumors
Authors: Deborne Justine , Benkhaled Imad , Bouchaud Véronique , Pinaud Noël , Crémillieux Yannick
Published: November 2023

The evaluation of the efficacy of a drug is a fundamental step in the development of new treatments or in the personalized therapeutic strategies and management of patients. Ideally, this evaluation should be rapid, possibly in real time, simple to implement and reliable. Moreover, for patients, it should be accompanied by the least possible adverse effects. In this study, we present a device designed to meet these objectives for assessing therapeutic response. This theranostic device is based on the use of magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy for the diagnostic aspect and on the application of the convection-enhanced delivery technique for the therapeutic aspect. The miniaturized device is implantable and can be used in vivo in a target tissue. In this study, the device was applied on rodent glioma models with localized administration of choline kinase inhibitor and acquisition of magnetic resonance images and spectra at 7 Tesla. The variations of concentration of key metabolites measured by the device during the administration of the molecules demonstrate the relevance of the approach and the potential of the device.
The perceptions and acceptance of health management information system by health data managers in Rwanda: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Hagenimana Fabien , Nishimwe Aurore , Byungura Jean Claude , Tumusiime David
Published: November 2023

Background
Health Management Information System (HMIS) has the unlimited potential to enhance the quality of healthcare. However, technology can be implemented and still face resistance from users. Since the introduction of Rwanda's HMIS, studies are still scarce to assess its adoption and level of acceptance from the end-users' perspective. This study aimed to assess the perceived usefulness and acceptance of HMIS by Health Data Managers (HDMs) in Rwanda. A cross-sectional study was conducted using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to assess HMIS usage. A mixed-method approach was used to collect data from 280 HDMs. Data analysis utilized descriptive statistics for distribution and ANOVA to test the correlations between perceptions, institutional factors, technology, and the acceptability of HMIS.
Results
Perceived usefulness (PU), perceived ease of use (PEU), and technology factors were significantly inter-correlated with each other and with the acceptance of the HMIS system. The degree of HMIS acceptance by HDMs is at 64.4%. HDMs' perceived usefulness (PU) of HMIS highlights its core functionalities.
Conclusion
The significance of HMIS usefulness and acceptance among HDMs in Rwanda is evident but requires further improvement such as continuous training on the use of Health Management Information System, making the system more user-friendly, increasing user support when needed, and ensuring timely communication of updates. HDMs acknowledge the positive influence of HMIS on their achievements.
Decoding Viewer Emotions in Video Ads: Predictive Insights through Deep Learning
Authors: Antonov Alexey , Kumar Shravan Sampath , Headley William , Wood Orlando , Montana Giovanni
Published: November 2023

Understanding and predicting viewers’ emotional responses to videos has emerged as a pivotal challenge due to its multifaceted applications in video indexing, summarization, personalized content recommendation, and effective advertisement design. One major roadblock in this domain has been the lack of expansive datasets with videos paired with viewer-reported emotional annotations. We bridge this gap by introducing a deep learning methodology trained on a unique proprietary dataset of over 30,000 real video advertisements, each annotated by an average of 75 viewers. This equates to over 2.3 million emotional annotations across eight distinct categories: anger, contempt, disgust, fear, happiness, sadness, surprise, and neutral, coupled with the temporal onset of these emotions. Leveraging 5-second video clips, our approach aims to capture pronounced emotional responses. Our convolutional neural network uses both video and audio to predict salient 5-second emotional clips, achieving an average balanced accuracy of 43.6%, with especially high performance for detecting happiness (55.8%) and sadness (60.2%). When applied to full ads, our model obtains a strong average AUC of 75% in determining emotional undertones. To spur progress, we publicly release our trained network. This work helps overcome previous data limitations and provides an accurate deep learning solution for video emotion understanding.
Perception and knowledge of native people on exotic plant species in the Bargarh district of Western Odisha, India: A case study
Authors: Sahu Alok Ranjan , Raal Ain
Published: November 2023

The present study was based on both bibliographic sources and the survey to the documentation of exotic plants in Bargarh district, western Odisha, India. A total of 75 species belonging to 65 genera and 34 families are reported. Asteraceae family contributes the highest number of species (13), six species were from Amaranthaceae; five species each from Leguminosae and Poaceae; four species of Euphobiaceae; three species each from four families viz. Convolvulaceae, Malvaceae, Onagraceae, and Verbenaceae; two species each from six families i.e. Arecaceae, Asclepiadaceae, Capparaceae, Lamiaceae, Portulacaceae, Solanaceae; one species each from rest 19 families. Out of 75 species, a total of 42 species are native to Tropical America; five species are native to Mexico; each of three species to America; each of two species to Africa, Brazil, Europe, the Mediterranean, and South America; each of one species to Australia, Central America, China, Madagascar, Malaysia, North America, Pantropic, Peru, South America (1824), South America (17th cent.), Tropical West Asia, Tropical Africa, Tropical America (Bf1824), Tropical South America, and West Indies. The uses of exotic plants for various purposes as indicated by the native peoples are discussed here. The present study gives complete and efficient documentation of exotic plants in the Bargarh district of Western Odisha that will provide a tool for the maintenance of the local biodiversity. Some plant species such as Alternanthera sessilis, Borassus flabellifer, Cassia tora, Cleome gynandra, Datura metel, Gomphressa globosa, Sida acuta, Zinnia elegans, etc. may have potential as medicinal plants.
SADSE: Search-based Anti-pattern Detection Method by Standard Examples
Authors: Kalhor Somayeh , keyvanpour Mohammad Reza , Salajegheh Afshin , Broumandnia Ali
Published: November 2023

Anti-patterns occur when software design principles are not followed in the software design and coding process. Although there may be no errors or bugs in the software implementation, the quality of the software is reduced. To improve the quality of the software, its anti-patterns should be identified and corrected. Various software engineering criteria are defined and they are used to detect anti-patterns. Choosing the correct and limited combination of criteria as a detection rule is the main purpose of new automatic anti-pattern detection methods. Selection of base examples in these methods for their training is a challenge, which is highly dependent on software experts. In our method, the anti-patterns identified in open-source programs presented as a standard are used for the base examples to reduce the influence of experts’ tastes in detection. The second challenge in all metric-based methods is the complexity of choosing correct and limited criteria in detection rules which in our method by separating the rule tree for every anti-pattern, considered criteria are limited as much as possible. Therefore, we present the SADSE method, which is a new approach to create anti-pattern detection rules using standard base examples and reduce the complexity of searching for suitable software metrics. to identify the detection rules, a new fitness function is defined in the genetic programming, and the rule tree is created to identify each anti-pattern separately to reduce the complexity of selecting software criteria. The analysis of our method by SERC Benchmark shows that its precision and recall on average for all considered anti-patterns are 97% and 96.9%, respectively.
Transport of Indomethacin from genipin cross-linked chitosan and chitosan-gelatin composite hydrogels: A comparative study
Authors: Goyal Aditya Sandeep , Shenoy Divya , Kamath Rajeshwari R. , Thakur Goutam
Published: November 2023

An effort has been made to synthesize genepin cross-linked hydrogel matrices for drug delivery applications. Given to their excellent biocompatibility, chitosan and gelatin were explored for their ability to form hydrogels. The hydrogels were cross-linked with a natural cross-linking agent genipin to improve the mechanical properties of the drug delivery matrices. To assess the cross-linked hydrogels for performance, they were characterized by mechanical compression analysis, gel microstructural visualization & surface morphology (SEM), and the swelling index and drug release profile with Indomethacin. The indomethacin release profile from these hydrogels shows an initial burst release of Indomethacin concentration, while over a period the release eventually becomes controlled. The cytocompatibility of the hydrogels were evaluated with cells.
Transductive Meta-Learning with Enhanced Feature Ensemble for Few-shot Semantic Segmentation
Authors: Karimi Amin , POULLIS CHARALAMBOS
Published: November 2023

This paper addresses few-shot semantic segmentation and proposes a novel transductive end-to-end method that overcomes three key problems affecting performance. First, we present a novel ensemble of visual features learned from pretrained classification and semantic segmentation networks with the same architecture. Our approach leverages the varying dis-criminative power of these networks, resulting in visual features that capture rich and diverse information at different depths. Secondly, the pretrained semantic segmentation network serves as a base class extractor, which significantly reduces false positives. Thirdly, a transductive meta-learning method addresses the prediction by first learning the relationship between labeled and unlabeled data points with matching support foreground to query features (intra-class similarity) and then applying this knowledge to predict on the unlabeled query image (intra-object similarity), which simultaneously learns propagation and false positive suppression. To evaluate our method, we performed experiments on benchmark datasets, and the results demonstrate significant improvement, with minimal trainable parameters 2.98M. Specifically, using Resnet-101, we achieve state-of-the-art performance for both 1-shot and 5-shot Pascal-5i , as well as on 1-shot and 5-shot COCO-20i .
Dermoscopic features of melanocyte-derived tumors in mucosal sites: a case control study
Authors: XIANG ZHANG
Published: November 2023

Background: Mucosal melanoma (MM) is a rare tumor characterized by aggressive behavior and a poor prognosis. Typically, its diagnosis occurs at the onset of symptoms in advanced lesions, often leading to adverse effects. Dermoscopy significantly enhances the diagnostic accuracy of malignant melanoma, making it valuable for adjunctive diagnosis.
OBJECTIVE: This study was aimed to investigate the imaging features of cutaneous melanocytic lesions in mucosal areas.
METHODS: Dermoscopic images of melanocytic-derived tumors in mucosal sites up until December 2021 were searched in the International Cooperative Skin Imaging Database. Duplicate and pathologically undiagnosed images were excluded. The diagnostic efficacy of various microscopic modalities were calculated and the impact of age on these features was examined.
Results: Based on our data, the main signs in the skin images of mucosal melanoma were blue-grey dots accompanied by 2 colored structureless areas, both displaying a figure of 93.3% and a specificity of 66.7%. The prevalence of small blue-grey dot structures in MM was significantly higher in comparison to the younger age group (OR 7, 95% CI 5-9, P<0.001).
Conclusion: Blue-grey dots are the most sensitive and specific characteristics associated with diagnosis of MM. Moreover, the presence of blue-grey dots in the elderly population further suggests the likelihood of MM.
Proportion of metabolic syndrome in hepatocellular carcinoma patients with different etiologies: a retrospective study
Authors: Yang DaLong , Wang Hong-Liang , Li Jian-Rong , Su Jia-Yong , Li Min-Jun , Teng Yu-Xian , Deng Zhu-Jian , Li Zhong-Hai , Huang Jian-Li , Guo Ping-Ping , Ma Liang , Li Zhen-Zhen , Zhong Jian-Hong
Published: November 2023

Aims
This study aims to compare the proportion of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and cardiac or kidney comorbidities in patients with hepatectomy hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the context of metabolic dysfunction-related fatty liver disease (MAFLD), chronic hepatitis B (CHB), concurrent CHB/MAFLD, or hepatitis C virus infection.
Methods
This retrospective study included patients with biopsy-proven HCC between March 2013 and March 2023. Cases were divided into MAFLD, CHB, CHB/MAFLD, and HCV groups. Preoperative demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were collected to compare the proportion of MetS and cardiac or kidney comorbidities.
Results
The proportions in the MAFLD, CHB, CHB/MAFLD, and HCV groups were 5.0% (n = 121), 75.2% (n = 1,822), 17.2% (n = 415), and 2.6% (n = 64), respectively. MAFLD patients had significantly lower proportions of cirrhosis, ascites, portal hypertension, alpha fetoprotein concentration ≥ 400 ng/mL, tumor size > 5cm, multinodular tumours, and microvascular invasion, but had significantly higher proportions of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, overweight, history of cardiovascular diseases, high arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk, T-wave changes, hypertriglyceridemia, and hyperuricemia than CHB patients. CHB/MAFLD patients also had higher proportion of cirrhosis, ascites, and portal hypertension, but lower proportion of hypertension, overweight, and history of cardiovascular diseases compared to MAFLD patients (all p < 0.05). HCV group had higher proportion of cirrhosis, portal hypertension, ascites, and esophagogastric varices.
Conclusion
HCC patients in the setting of MAFLD have less severe liver disease but with higher proportion of MetS and cardiac or kidney comorbidities.
Cross-Type Representation Learning in GNSS: A Novel Approach for Enhanced SPP Positioning through Pseudorange Residuals
Authors: Yu FengZheng , Yuan Hong , Luo RuiDan , Chen Si
Published: November 2023

In the evolving domain of satellite navigation, accurate Single Point Positioning (SPP) remains a paramount objective. After an in-depth analysis of pseudorange residuals' characteristics, this study unveils a pioneering method by harnessing cross-type representation learning within GNSS, seamlessly integrating the capabilities of natural language processing with conventional navigation methodologies. By innovatively translating diverse conditions into "literal" terms, we re-envision how navigation challenges are addressed. Our introduced C-SPP algorithm significantly surpasses established SPP methods like RTKLIB and NETDIFF, achieving a remarkable accuracy boost of 33.27% and 24.47%, respectively. Moreover, while there's a slight increment in computational time, it's impressively marginal, showcasing our method's balance between precision and efficiency. The research underscores the importance of context adaptability, emphasizing potential efficiency gains from regional applications. With a unique blend of advanced NLP and GNSS positioning methods, our study offers a refreshing lens to view and tackle pseudorange residuals, opening avenues for further research and applications.
Research On Impact Compression Resistance And Explosion Resistance Of Layered Gradient Rubber Concrete In Underground Engineering
Authors: Zhao Zhihong , Zhang Ao , Zeng Chao , Li Feng , Huang LIjie , Mei Yong
Published: November 2023

In today's world, terrorist bomb attacks and sudden explosion accidents bring serious challenges to underground engineering. Improving the dynamic protection capability of underground engineering is an important social and scientific problem that remains to be solved. Rubber concrete (RC) has an outstanding application prospect in the field of dynamic protection in underground engineering due to its excellent buffering and energy absorption characteristics. Functionally gradient material is a kind of material that can be designed according to the actual situation. This paper combines the concept of functionally gradient material (FGM) with traditional rubber concrete, proposing a new material: layered gradient rubber concrete, and explores the impact compression resistance and anti-explosion performance of specimens with different gradient modes based on Hopkinson pressure bar testing and LS-DYNA (a finite element software). The results show that there is a strain rate effect in layered gradient rubber concrete, and its failure starts at the weakest strength layer. Considering the stress-strain curve, DIF value and toughness index of the specimens, the concave gradient mode can effectively improve the impact compression performance of traditional rubber concrete. Through numerical simulation, the anti-explosion ability of layered gradient rubber concrete was tested. The concave gradient rubber concrete has the best attenuation effect in the face of explosion stress waves. Compared with the homogeneous rubber concrete, the stress attenuation effects on the structure surface X0, X1.5 and X3 of the concave gradient mode were improved by about 15%, 25% and 43%, respectively.
Construction and validation of a competing risk model for specific survival of patients with second primary malignancies after prostate cancer
Authors: Bao Er Hao , Wang Jia Hao , Liu Ying , Yang Lin , Yang Yang , Liu Yang , Wang Jun-ji , Tan ChunLin , Zhu Ping Yu
Published: November 2023

Objective
To identify SPM death risk factors in PCa survivors and high-risk PCa patients for SPMs. With improved prostate cancer (PCa) survival, there's a growing need to study second primary malignancies (SPMs) in PCa survivors.
Methods
PCa patients from 2004–2015 in the SEER database were screened for SPM risk. The Fine and Gray competing risk model identified SPM mortality risk factors via univariate and multivariate analyses. A competing risk nomogram predicted 3-, 5-, and 10-year SPM mortality risk, stratifying patients by total scores for risk assessment. Model performance was assessed using the C-index, ROC curve, calibration curve, and AUC.
Results
SPM-diagnosed PCa patients (2004–2015) were split into a 7:3 training (n = 31,435) and validation set (n = 13,472). The nomogram included 12 factors: age, chemotherapy, radiation, Gleason Score, race, grade, marital status, tumor size, surgical site, surgery/radiation sequence, scope, and stage. C-index values were 0.70 (se: 0.001) and 0.684 (se: 0.002) in training and validation, respectively, indicating high discriminative power. The 3-, 5-, and 10-year AUCs in training were 0.75 (95% CI: 0.72–0.77), 0.73 (95% CI: 0.72–0.75), and 0.72 (95% CI: 0.7–0.73), and in validation were 0.7 (95% CI: 0.65–0.74), 0.7 (95% CI: 0.67–0.73), and 0.71 (95% CI: 0.69–0.73), respectively, showing good predictive accuracy. The calibration curve confirmed model fit.
Conclusions
A competing risk model predicts SPM mortality in PCa survivors, aiding high-risk patient identification and guiding survival-oriented treatment and follow-up strategies.
Effects of crocin on the enhancement of in vitro neurogenesis: Involvement of Notch and CREB/BDNF signaling pathways
Authors: Vafaei Shayan , Mirzaie Vida , Baghalishahi Masoumeh , Mousanejad Elahe , Nematollahi-mahani Seyed noureddin
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Adult neurogenesis, the process of generating new neuron cells in adult CNS, continues throughout life, despite past perceptions. Unfortunately, this process is insufficient in pathological conditions and needs to be promoted by nutritional and pharmacological stimulants. Crocin, the active component of Saffron, is a carotenoid that affects neurogenesis in vivo and in vitro. Our aim in the present study was to investigate the enhancing effects of crocin on the neurogenesis of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSC) in the presence of retinoic acid, as well as the molecular pathways involved.
Material and methods: Stemness potential and differentiation capacity of harvested ADSC cells were evaluated. The optimum dose of crocin was assessed with an MTT assay. Crocin, retinoic acid, CREB/BDNF, and Notch inhibitors alone and in combination were added to the cell culture medium. Jag1, Hes1, Notch, and BDNF gene expression were analyzed by q-RTPCR on days 7, 14, and 21, while CREB, DCX, SOX2, and NeuN expression in the different groups were analyzed by Immunofluorescence (IF) method.
Results: Expression of mesenchymal CD markers as well as adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation confirmed the origin and properties of ADSCs. The optimal dose of crocin for in-vitro use was 1mM. Administration of crocin significantly (P<0.05) increased, while administration of inhibitors (DATP & Naphthol) significantly (P<0.05) decreased in Jag1, Hes1, Notch, and BDNF expression. Immunofluorescent assessments showed that expression of DCX, BDNF, NeuN, and Sox2 proteins increased significantly (P<0.05) after crocin administration and decreased significantly (P<0.05) after administration of the inhibitor.
Conclusion: It can be concluded that crocin can be used as an enhancer for neural differentiation of MSCs in-vitro in the presence of retinoic acid. The mechanism is proposed through Notch and CREB/BDNF signaling pathways. Whether these effects can occur in vivo requires more extensive studies.