bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A rare case of anterior segment injury by bamboo filaments
Authors: Luo Li , Li Jun , Zhu Yanxia , Wu Jing , Zhang Min , HU Xin
Published: January 2023

Background: To report an unusual case of bamboo filaments sticking into the cornea, conjunctiva, and even penetrating the cornea into the anterior chamber.
Case presentation: A 53-year-old man injured his left eye accidentally with rotted bamboo filaments when cutting wood. After 2 weeks, he went to our hospital. We found there were many bamboo filaments embedded, not only in the subepithelial region of the cornea but also in the conjunctiva and anterior chamber. Superficial and subconjunctival foreign bodies were removed, and the deep corneal stroma and anterior chamber bamboo foreign bodies were observed statically. The patient was re-examined 1 week and 1 month after discharge and the results showed no significant inflammatory reaction to the residual foreign body. A long-term follow-up of this patient is still in process with further studies to be done.
Conclusion: Our current short-term follow-up observations suggest that, in contrast to the conjunctival reaction, bamboo filaments may pierce and lodge in the anterior chamber and cornea without significant inflammation.
Nonlinear Rayleigh wave propagation in a layered half-space in dual-phase-lag
Authors: Youssef A. A. , Amein N. K. , Abdelrahman N. S. , Abou-Dina M. S. , Ghaleb A. F.
Published: January 2023

We investigate nonlinear Rayleigh wave propagation in a layered thermoelastic medium composed of a slab rigidly bonded to the surface of a half-space under prescribed external thermal boundary conditions within the dual-phase-lag theory. The heat conduction coecient for both the slab and the matrix have a linear dependence on temperature. Our aim is to assess the eect of temperature dependence of the heat conductivity, as well as the thermal relaxation times, on the process of wave propagation in the layered medium. Poincaré expansion of the solution in a small parameter and the generation of higher harmonics allow to evaluate the coecient of this nonlinear coupling in the slab through heat wave propagation measurement. For the used numerical values, the results show that some characteristics of the problem, e.g. the temperature, heat flux and one stress component suer jumps at the interface, while the other stress components are continuous there. The existence of jumps at the interface may be of interest for measurements. Comparison with the case of the half-space showed that the presence of the slab contributes to faster damping of the solution with depth in the half-space.
Influence of inflow directions and setting angle of inlet guide vane on hydraulic performance of an axial-flow pump
Authors: Nguyen Duc Anh , Ma Sang-Bum , Kim Sung , Kim Jin-Hyuk
Published: January 2023

Inlet flow direction significantly affects the hydraulic performance of an axial-flow pump. Usually, the research papers ignore this phenomenon, resulting in discrepancies between simulation and experimental results. This study examines the influence of inflow direction in five cases (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 30% pre-swirl intensities) to determine the relationship between the pre-swirl intensity and the hydraulic performance of the axial-flow pump. Based on this, changing the setting angle of the inlet guide vane (IGV) is proposed and thoroughly investigated to reduce the effect of inflow direction. In this study, the influence of clearances in IGV blades on hydraulic performance is also investigated in detail. Numerical simulations are performed using ANSYS–CFX and a shear stress transport reattachment modification (SST k-) turbulence model with small y+ values at all walls. Specifically, the hydraulic performance curves and internal flow characteristics, including contours and streamlines, are assessed and analyzed. The inflow direction significantly impacts the hydraulic efficiency of the axial-flow pump. Increased pre-swirl intensity causes more loss in the IGV passage. The internal flow field and performance are not affected by the clearance at the hub and shroud of the IGV. However, the tip clearance of the impeller causes a decrease in hydraulic efficiency due to the tip leakage vortex. By adjusting the setting angle of the IGV, the efficiency and head gradually increase from a negative to a positive setting angle. Additionally, 30° is considered the critical setting angle for IGV.
A challenging and rare ablation of both epicardial and endocardial accessory pathway in a patient with paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia
Authors: Bao Zhengyu , Zhu Ye , You Jia
Published: January 2023

Background:The standard approach for treating patients with paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia(PSVT) is radiofrequency ablation. In patients with PSVT difffculty in ablation of accessory pathways(APs) is associated with failures and recurrences. Existence of epicardial and endocardial AP is a special case resulting in difffculties in radiofrequency ablation.
Case presentation: A 54-year-old female had a symptom of recurrent palpitation for 40 years. The electrocardiogram(ECG) showed supraventricular tachycardia. As the tachycardic episodes had been poorly controlled with conservative treatment, the patient underwent radiofrequency ablation. Invasive electrophysiology study performed and confirmed that the rare occurrence of both endocardial and epicardial AP in this case. The accessory pathways were epicardial AP of mitral valve annulus and endocardial AP of tricuspid annulus and mitral annulus posterior septum. Both epicardial and endocardial AP in one case was rare, however, ablation of this challenging and rare case is successful.The patient's ECG was normal after operation.. During the follow-up, the patient has had no recurrent tachycardia.
Conclusions: This rare and challenging case offers evidence for viable technique of epicardial ablation when conventional endocardial ablation process fail to block the AP conduction. As in this case, repeat strategy of electrophysiological study and precise mapping by an experienced operator should be a prerequisite to attempt ablation treatment.
Effects of different factors on the friction and wear mechanical properties of titanium alloy materials with cortical bones at near service conditions
Authors: Xingdong Sun , Jianfei Zhou , Wandi Wu , Renbo Zhang , Liangyuan Xu , Chengmao Cao , Rui Jiang , Liangfei Fang
Published: January 2023

Artificial joint is one of the most effective methods to treat joint injuries. The service performance of artificial joints is gradually bad due to the wear of artificial joints in actual service. In order to obtain the potential failure mechanism of the artificial joint in actual service, the study started with the multiple factors that affect the service performance of the artificial joint. The experimental study was carried out on the change rule of mechanical behavior of the contact interface between the artificial joint of titanium alloy and cortical bone. The multifactor of the research is compression load, contact load, friction velocity and lubrication environment. The results indicate that the friction coefficient, wear mass and wear coefficient of Ti-6A1-4V titanium alloy decrease with the increase of compression load. The friction rate and the friction coefficient of Ti-6A1-4V titanium alloy are decreasing with the increase of contact load. The wear mass and friction coefficient of Ti-6A1-4V titanium alloy increase with the increase of contact load. The friction coefficient, wear mass and wear coefficient of the wet friction test with the lubricant of bovine serum albumin are lower than those of the dry friction test. The lubrication effect is better as the increase of lubricant concentration. Based on the observation of the electron microscope, The wear type influenced by compression load is mainly abrasive wear and oxidation wear. The wear type influenced by compression load is mainly abrasive wear and oxidation wear. The wear type influenced by friction rate is mainly abrasive wear and oxidation wear. The wear type influenced by lubricants is mainly oxidation wear. When wear mass and wear coefficient are used as the criteria for evaluating friction and wear, the order of influential factors to friction and wear of Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy plate is friction rate> compression load >contact load>lubricant concentration. The research result can provide a theoretical reference for the optimal manufacture of the artificial joint of titanium alloy and optimal rules of safe service conditions.
Impaired body image and physical and sexual limitations after surgical therapy for vulvar cancer: a qualitative study
Authors: Dongen Jessy van , Vincent Noor J.B. , de Munnik Suzanne , Ezendam Nicole P.M. , Esch Edith M.G. van , Boll Dorry
Published: January 2023

Purpose
Surgical treatment for vulvar cancer has impact on women’s self-esteem, body image and sexuality. Health Care Professionals experience difficulties in discussing these issues with patients. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of patients with vulvar cancer regarding sexual changes, and their needs and expectations regarding sexual counseling.
Methods
Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with patients who were surgically treated for vulvar cancer. All interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematically analyzed.
Results
Seven patients (mean age 54, 86% stage 1B vulvar cancer) participated. Seven themes were identified and were linked to the biopsychosocial framework: 1) the impact of physical disabilities on body image, 2) sexual dysfunction, 3) grieving the loss of sexual health, 4) ambivalence in the acceptance of sexual changes, 5) the effect of the partner on sexual experience, 6) the attitude of the Health Care Professional (HCP), and 7) discussing sexuality: the right moment
Conclusion
Patients who are surgically treated for vulvar cancer experience problems related to impairment on daily activities, altered body image and sexuality. Especially difficulties in reaching an orgasm or anorgasmia are hard to accept. Both the partner and HCP play an important role in how patients experience discussing and exploring sexuality after treatment. Since informational needs regarding sexuality change over time and patients start to fantasize about sex after 4–6 months, it is recommended to schedule an appointment 4–6 months after surgery to discuss patients’ needs regarding sexual information and counseling.
Myocardial Perfusion SPECT in Germany from 2012 to 2021:
Insights into Development and Quality Indicators
Authors: Lindner Oliver , Schäfer Wolfgang , Rischpler Christoph , Silber Sigmund , Burchert Wolfgang
Published: January 2023

Purpose: This paper summarises the results of 4 national surveys on the numbers, utilisation and technique of myocardial perfusion SPECT (MPS) from 2012 to 2021.
Methods: A one-page questionnaire for information on MPS in 2012, 2015, 2018 and 2021 was sent to German centres practising nuclear medicine. To check for representativeness, the numbers obtained were related to official annual data and furthermore to the numbers of invasive coronary angiography procedures (ICA).
Results: MPS examinations increased by > 40% from 2012 to 2021 and showed a centralisation with increasing MPS per centre. In 2020, a mild impact of the Covid-19 pandemia could be observed in the form of only a slight MPS increase, which was compensated in the following year. Outpatient care cardiologists represent the most important referrer (70%).
Mostly, 2-day protocols were used. One-day protocols and stress-only protocols showed insignificant changes.
The use of exercise stress decreased steadily. In 2021, exercise stress was replaced by pharmacological stress as the most frequent stress modality.
Camera systems showed a shift to more SPECT-CT systems. The use of gated SPECT increased to almost 90%. Quantitative scoring showed an increasing acceptance.
The ratio of invasive coronary angiographies (ICA) to MPS was between 3.9 and 4.5. A significant proportion of ICA in the context of CCS was performed without prior testing for ischaemia.
Conclusion: The 2012 to 2021 MPS surveys reveal a continuously growing number of examinations with only a mild temporary effect of the Covid-19 pandemia and a centralisation with increasing numbers per centre. Performance and technical data reveal a high-grade adherence of MPS practice to the current ESC guideline. A large potential of non-invasive diagnostics remains for the future.
Analyzing and predicting the urbanization and ecological resilience coupling and coordination of Guangdong Province China
Authors: Liao Zhenjie , Zhang Lijuan , Liang Shan
Published: January 2023

Rapid urbanization often leads to numerous ecological issues. Balancing development through urbanization and ecological resilience is crucial to the sustainable development of cities. Here, we combine remote sensing technology to assess urbanization and its effects on the environment from the perspective of resilience. We use the Guangdong Province China, as the study area, to build an urbanization and ecological resilience index, using a coupling coordination and relative development degree model to study the coupling coordination between the two from 2000 to 2020. The results show that (1) according to night light data the level of urbanization in Guangdong Province has increased rapidly. The Pearl River Delta metropolitan area, with Guangzhou and Shenzhen as the center, has bright lights, while the northern part of Guangdong presents many small scattered light pixels. (2) According to our indices, the level of ecological resilience in Guangdong Province has risen steadily. Maoming City has the highest level of ecological resilience in the province, followed by Jiangmen, Dongguan, Shenzhen, and Zhongshan City. (3) The coupling and coordination of urbanization and ecological resilience in Guangdong Province has been steadily improved. Qingyuan City and Shaoguan City have the highest coupling and coordination, while Zhongshan City has the largest increase in coupling and coordination. (4) The relative development of urbanization and ecological resilience in Guangdong Province has almost reached an ideal balance. (5) The model prediction results show that the coupling and coordination degree of urbanization and ecological environment in Guangdong Province will likely improve from 2021 to 2025, but the overall improvement speed will be slow. The degree of urban coupling and coordination in most cities has continued this trend of growth, upgrading to a middling level of coordinated development level.
Impact of harmonization and oversampling methods on radiomics analysis of multi-center imbalanced datasets: Application to PET-based prediction of lung cancer subtypes
Authors: Du Dongyang , Shiri Isaac , Yousefirizi Fereshteh , Salmanpour Mohammad R. , Lv Jieqin , Wu HuiQin , Zhu WenTao , Zaidi Habib , Lu Lijun , Rahmim Arman
Published: January 2023

Purpose To evaluate the impact of harmonization and oversampling methods on multi-center imbalanced datasets, with specific application to PET-based radiomics modeling for histologic subtype prediction in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Methods The study included 245 patients with adenocarcinoma (ADC) and 78 patients with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) from 4 centers. Utilizing 1502 radiomics features per patient, we trained, validated, and externally tested 4 machine-learning classifiers, to investigate the effect of no harmonization (NoH) or 4 harmonization methods, paired with no oversampling (NoO) or 5 oversampling methods on subtype prediction. Model performance was evaluated using the average area under the ROC curve (AUROC) and G-mean via 5 times 5-fold cross-validations. Statistical comparisons of the combined models against baseline (NoH+NoO) were performed for each fold of cross-validation using the DeLong test.
Results The number of cross-combinations with both AUROC and G-mean outperforming baseline in internal validation and external testing was 15, 4, 2, and 7 (out of 29) for random forest (RF), linear discriminant analysis (LDA), logistic regression (LR), and support vector machine (SVM), respectively. ComBat harmonization combined with oversampling (SMOTE) via RF yielded better performance than baseline (AUROC and G-mean of internal validation: 0.725 vs. 0.608 and 0.625 vs. 0.398; external testing: 0.637 vs. 0.567 and 0.363 vs. 0.234), though statistical significances were not observed.
Conclusion Applying harmonization and oversampling methods in multi-center imbalanced datasets can improve NSCLC-subtype prediction, but varies widely across classifiers. We have created open-source comparisons of harmonization and oversampling on different classifiers for comprehensive evaluations in different studies.
The weight-bearing pain is closest associated with physical function among different pain patterns: Data from the Osteoarthritis Initiative
Authors: Li Shilin , Zhao Yijin , Zou Jihua , Gong Ze , He Zijun , Fan Weichao , Zhang Zhuodong , Zheng Manxu , Zeng Qing , Huang Guozhi
Published: January 2023

Objective
To compare the correlations between different pain patterns and physical function, and identify the most related pain pattern with physical function in knee OA.
Methods
736 participants with radiological knee OA were included from the Osteoarthritis Initiative (OAI). Five pain patterns were assessed, including pain severity, intermittent, constant, weight-bearing, and non-weight-bearing pain patterns. Physical function was evaluated by the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index physical function subscale (WOMAC-PF), Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score Function in Sport and Recreation (KOOS-FSR) and 20-Meter Walking Test (20-MWT). Linear regression analysis were used to exam the associations between pain patterns and physical function, and heat map was plotted to visualize the standardized β coefficients.
Results
Among all pain patterns, the weight-bearing pain pattern had the strongest correlation with WOMAC-PF and KOOS-FSR at baseline (β = 0.451, p < 0.001; β = -0.354, p < 0.001), year-2 follow up (β = 0.345, p < 0.001; β = -0.279, p < 0.001) and 2-year change (β = 0.430, p < 0.001; β = -0.279, p < 0.001). Except for weight-bearing pain pattern at year-2 follow up (β = 0.079, p = 0.049), pain in other linear models showed no significant correlation with 20-MWT, and weight-bearing pain was always closest to the statistical threshold value (p < 0.05).
Conclusions
Weight-bearing pain pattern was most closely associated with physical function. Therapeutic targets related to weight-bearing pain should be preferred when administering analgesic therapies to improve physical function in knee OA.
Macular Function and Morphology after Idiopathic Epiretinal Membrane Surgery correlate with the Presence of Ectopic Inner Foveal Layers
Authors: Gesualdo Carlo , Rossi Settimio , Iodice Clemente Maria , Rosolia Andrea Attilio , Corte Michele Della , Melillo Paolo , Simonelli Francesca
Published: January 2023

Background: To evaluate how Ectopic Inner Foveal Layers (EIFL) affect macular morphology and function after idiopathic Epiretinal Membrane (ERM) and internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling by the means of Best-Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA), Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), Microperimetry (MP-1) and Multifocal Electroretinogram (mfERG).
Methods: 27 patients underwent pars plana vitrectomy with ILM and ERM peeling. They were retrospectively followed-up for 12 months and allocated into two groups basing on baseline EIFL presence (group 1) or absence (group 2). Central Retinal Thickness (CRT) and BCVA were measured and compared pre- and post-operatively at 1, 4 and 12 months, whereas Fixation Stability (FS), Macular Sensitivity (MS) and mfERG responses were confronted at baseline and 12 months.
Results: In group 1 BCVA improved (p<0.05) at 4 and 12 months (Mean difference (MD)=0.14 (SE=0.04); MD=0.13 (SE=0.05), respectively) as well as in group 2 (MD=0.31 (SE=0.07): MD=0.41 (SE=0.08), respectively). CRT did not change in group 1, whereas it decreased (p<0.05) in group 2 at 4 and 12 months (MD=-73.13 – SE=23.56; MD=-76.20 – SE=23.56). MS showed no changes in both groups after surgery. FS did not change in group 1, whereas group 2 improved (p<0.05) in either FS2° (+8.91±13.97) and FS4° (+4.33±3.84) at 12 months. MfERG P1 wave did not improve in group 1, while group 2 improved (p<0.001) postoperatively (αP1-2: 27.97±27.62; αP1-3: 12.51±17.36; αP1-4: 10.49±17.19) except from the most central ring (αP1-1).
Conclusion: EIFL presence resulted to negatively affect the outcomes of this procedure.
Quantifying the hazard from volcanic sulphur dioxide to aircraft occupants
Authors: Kristiansen Nina , Witham Claire , Beckett Frances
Published: January 2023

Volcanic eruptions can emit large quantities of sulphur dioxide (SO2) into the atmosphere, which can be harmful to people and the environment. Aircraft encounters with a volcanic SO2 cloud could represent a health hazard to crew and passengers onboard, depending on the dose of SO2 encountered. The recommended SO2 concentration threshold set by the World Health Organisation (WHO) is 500 µg/m3 over 10 minutes. In this study we have assessed concentration levels of volcanic SO2 in the atmosphere following eight historic eruptions and use dispersion model simulations to calculate when and where the WHO threshold is exceeded. The time and area of exceedance varies and depends on the eruption characteristics: the amount, duration and height of the SO2 release. The WHO threshold is exceeded for all historic eruptions considered. In several cases, the area delineated by the WHO threshold, that is the SO2 hazard, can be considerably larger than the volcanic ash hazard area for the same eruption. SO2 hazard areas also often extend over a longer period of time compared to the equivalent ash advisories. For example, following the 2019 eruption of Raikoke, the SO2 hazard area reached up to 1.7 million km2 and the WHO concentration value was exceeded for about two weeks, while volcanic ash was considered hazardous to aviation for about five days. These results will help the aviation industry to better understand the potential risks to their passengers and crew from volcanic SO2, and aid in defining concentration thresholds for any potential volcanic SO2 forecasts for aviation.
A newly synthesized organic chromophore (HCzN) showing optical linear and nonlinear response for potential in photonic applications
Authors: Ali Abid , Mehkoom Mohd , Ali Farman , Afzal S. M. , Ahmad Shabbir
Published: January 2023

The present article demonstrates the optical linear and nonlinear studies of the chromophore 2,2'-(hexane-1,6-diylbis(9H-carbazole-9,3-diyl))bis(ethene-1,1,2-tricarbonitrile (HCzN). We have synthesized this molecule and the structure of this molecule has been confirmed via IR and NMR spectroscopies. The linear optical study has been done with the help of UV-Vis absorption and emission spectroscopies and we have measured the refractive index (n0), and optical bandgap (Eg) for this chromophore. We have explored the third-order nonlinear optical (NLO) characteristics of HCzN at the concentrations of 1, 2, 3, and 4 mM employing both closed and open-aperture Z-scan methods at 25 mW laser power. This chromophore evinces the self-defocusing and saturable absorption nature for closed and open aperture scans respectively. The calculated NLO parameters like the coefficient of nonlinear absorption (β) and refraction (n2) are found to be of the order of 10− 6 cm2/W and 10− 3 cm/W respectively with the nonlinear optical susceptibility (χ(3)), and hyperpolarizability (γ) of the order of 10− 5 esu, and 10–27 esu respectively. The magnitude of NLO parameters varies linearly with concentration.
Reducing CNOT count in quantum Fourier transform with linear nearest-neighbor architecture
Authors: Park Byeongyong , Ahn Doyeol
Published: January 2023

The physical limitations of quantum hardware often require nearest-neighbor architecture. Generally, two-qubit gates are needed to transform a quantum circuit into a circuit with nearest-neighbor architecture. However, two-qubit gates are considered the primary cost of quantum circuits because of their higher error rates and longer execution time than single-qubit gates. The controlled-NOT (CNOT) gate is the typical choice of a two-qubit gate. Here, we propose a new linear nearest-neighbor circuit design protocol of quantum Fourier transform (QFT), one of the most versatile subroutines in quantum algorithms. Compared with previous studies on n-qubit QFT circuits with nearest-neighbor architecture, our method reduces the number of CNOT gates by up to ~ 40%. Next, we put our QFT circuits and standard QFT circuits in the Qiskit transpiler to construct QFTs on the IBM quantum computers. As a result, we show that our QFT circuits have a significant advantage over standard QFT circuits in terms of the number of CNOT gates. These results suggest that the proposed protocol can be a new starting point for building QFT circuits implemented in quantum hardware demanding nearest-neighbor architecture.
Automated Epileptic Seizure Detection by Using MLP-GA Model
Authors: Chanu Maibam Mangalleibi , Singh Ngangbam Herojit , Thongam Khelchandra
Published: January 2023

One of the most often utilized signals for assessing the electrical activities of the brain is the Electroencephalograph (EEG) signal. The manual approach of determining epileptic irregularities is time-consuming, and the outcome may vary depending on the reader's level of expertise. In order to identify seizures from EEG signals, this research introduces a unique computer-aided approach that uses hybrid machine learning techniques. Discrete Wavelet Transform is used to extract features from the signals (DWT). A classifier is utilized to distinguish between the normal and seizure classes using a mix of the Self Organizing Neural Network (SONN) and Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) method. The performance of the suggested strategy produced a 99.8 % accuracy.
Simulating future land cover change in the Tono catchment using the CA-Markov model
Authors: Atulley Joan A.
Published: January 2023

Land use change is the most precise method used to understand the past and future land use dynamics of an area. Based on historical land use change, this study simulated the spatial patterns of land use in 2030, 2040, and 2050 using the CA-Markove model in Tersset. Land use classification maps from 1986, 1996, 2006, and 2020 were used in the Markov chain analysis to predict future maps. The simulated land cover map for 2020 was validated by comparing it with the classified map of the same year. The Overall Kappa value was 0.8878, indicating satisfactory performance. Future land use changes were quantitatively and spatially analyzed and the results revealed an increase in farmland from 38.7% in 2030 to 53.1% in 2050 to the detriment of savannah forest and Savanah Woodland, which is projected to decline from 21.7–13.4% and 33.0–22.2% respectively within the same period. The major transitions that occurred over the study period include, transition from farmland to savannah woodlands and savannah forest to savannah woodlands. Savannah forest persisted in the Northern part of the catchment and along the rivers. Conversion from savannah forest to farmland was observed to be prominent around the Tono reservoir, which is cause for concern. Hence, timely management measures need to be taken by policymakers to protect and sustainably manage forest resources in the catchment to safeguard water resources downstream. Study findings provide a scientific basis for decision-making for the catchment’s forest-water resources management.
Identification of autophagy-related genes for regulating cancer stem cell characteristics in colon adenocarcinoma by the analysis of transcriptome data stemness indices
Authors: Guo Peijie , Hou Weiye , He Bangshun , Sun Bojie , Nie Zhenlin , Peng Hongxin , Lin Kang , Gao Tianyi , Xie Haiwei
Published: January 2023

The emergence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) is the barrier to effective clinical outcomes for Colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) patients. Autophagy was found to play an important role on CSCs stemness regulation. However, the specific role of autophagy-related genes in COAD stemness remains unclear. In this study, by processing on two independent stemness indices, mRNAsi and mDNAsi, TP53INP2 among 29 differentially expressed autophagy-related genes(ARGs) in COAD was identified to be the hub ARGs in COAD stemness elimination. COAD patients with high stemness indices scores usually showed a down-regulated TP53INP2 expression which was correlated to a higher chemotherapy resistance and poorer RFS than the others. Two TFs, KLF9 and SETBP1 were involved in CSCs TP53INP2 expression promotion. Additionally, the decreased expression level of TP53INP2 was found to be significantly correlated to the COAD immune subtypes of C4 which contributed to the immunoresistance with low density infiltration of TH2, Treg cells, macrophages, monocyte and dendritic cells. In conclusion, TP53INP2 was found to be a valid indicator for poor prognosis of COAD patients with high stemness. All these results would provide a new strategy in seeking potential COAD therapeutic targets.
The optimal puncture time point of prolonged occlusion flow-mediated dilatation in radial artery catheterization: A prospective observational study
Authors: Qi Wensheng , Ma Haichun , Wu Xuehan , Wei Kun , Li Yanhui
Published: January 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the degree and duration of the radial artery dilation after PO-FMD, and the time point at which the radial artery diameter is expanded to the maximum. This was a prospective observational study. According to the Chinese guideline on the primary prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), 142 patients awaking from general anesthesia were divided into two groups: low-risk (LR) group and high-risk (HR) group. Firstly, the baseline radial artery diameter was measured on the left wrist using ultrasound in both groups. Subsequently, the radial artery diameters were obtained continuously at the same location for 5 minutes after PO-FMD. The baseline radial artery diameter, the maximum radial artery diameter, and the duration of radial artery dilation in the two groups were recorded. The time point at which the radial artery diameter is expanded to the maximum in the LR group and HR group was 26.49 ± 11.69s and 46.27 ± 12.03s, respectively(P༜0.01). The time of radial artery dilation and the percentage changes in arterial diameter in HR group were significantly lower than LR group (duration time: mean [mean ± standard]: 136.65 ± 31.55s vs. 168.98 ± 33.27s; percentage changes: median [interquartile range] 10.5 [8.6, 12.9] % vs. 15.2 [12.4, 19.0] %). In this study, the optimal puncture time point of PO-FMD in the LR group was 26s, and in the HR group was 46s. It would be helpful to guide the time point in radial artery catheterization after PO-FMD. Chinese Clinical Trial Registry identifier: ChiCTR2200066214.
Determination of Xerostomia with Cutoff Value for Salivary Flow Rate using Machine Learning Algorithm
Authors: Lee Yeon-Hee , Auh Q-Schick , Park Hee-Kyung
Published: January 2023

Aim
The purpose of this study was to investigate the objective cut-off values of unstimulated (UFR) and stimulated salivary flow rates (SFR) in patients with xerostomia and to present optimal machine learning model with A Classification and Regression Tree (CART) for all ages.
Methods
A total of 829 patients with oral diseases were enrolled (591 females; mean age, 59.29 ± 16.40 years; age range, 8–95 years old), 199 patients with xerostomia and 630 patients without xerostomia. Clinical characteristics were collected and analyzed together. To investigate which oral and systemic factors affect the presence of xerostomia and the cutoff value of UFR and SFR, the CART machine learning algorithm was repeatedly performed.
Results
UFR (0.41 ± 0.24 vs. 0.29 ± 0.22 mL/min, p < 0.001) and SFR (1.39 ± 0.94 vs. 1.12 ± 0.55, p < 0.001) were significantly lower in Xerostomia than in non-Xerostomia. The presence of xerostomia had a significant negative correlation with both UFR (r=-0.603, p-value < 0.01) and SFR (r=-0.301, p-value < 0.05). Considering the magnitude of the correlation coefficient, the presence of xerostomia in the patients with oral diseases showed a stronger correlation with the decrease in UFR than with the decrease in SFR. In the diagnosis of xerostomia based on the CART machine learning algorithm, the presence of stomatitis, candidiasis, halitosis, psychiatric disorder, and hyperlipidemia were significant predictors for xerostomia. According to the type of parameters included in each CART algorithm, the cutoff values of UFR and SFR were different, and the specific ranges with significant results are as follows; the UFR of 0.03 ~ 0.18 mL/min, SFR of 0.85 ~ 1.6 ml/min.
Conclusion
For the diagnosis of xerostomia, a new comprehensive approach was made using an optimal CART algorithm considering salivary hyposalivation and oral/systemic conditions. Xerostomia was negatively correlated with UFR and SFR values, and cut-off values for salivary flow rates varied depending on the underlying clinical factors of the patients.
Surgical outcome after thoracoscopic lung resections for congenital lung lesions in children
Authors: Musters Gijsbert D. , de Beer Sjoerd A. , Schuppen Joost van , de Jong Justin R , Gorter Ramon R , Oomen Matthijs W
Published: January 2023

Purpose: This study aimed to determine the complications after video assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) for congenital lung lesions in children.
Methods: All children undergoing a lung resection between January 2009 and June 2022 were retrospectively identified. Both early (<30 days) and late postoperative pulmonary complications were determined. The primary endpoint was postoperative complications within 30 days.
Results: In total, 56 patients were included, with a median age of 13 months (IQR 9-37). A VATS lobectomy were performed in 46 patients (82%), an extralobar sequestration in 8 patients (14%), an wedge resection in 1 patient and a segment resection in 1 patient. During the COVID pandemic, less resections were performed with an increase in symptomatic patients. A conversion to open occurred in 6 patients (11%), of which a preoperative lung infection was associated with an increased risk thereof (p=0.004). The median follow-up was 22 months (IQR 7-57) and all patients were alive. A postoperative complication (Clavien Dindo ≥3) occurred in 9 patients and complications without the need of intervention in 6 patients.
Conclusion: VATS lobectomy is a relatively safe procedure in children, even under one year of age. A preoperative lung infection increases the risk of conversion to open surgery.
Feature Compensated Adaptive Fusion Shuffle Network for Image Super-Resolution Reconstruction
Authors: Zhao Xiaoqiang , Li Xiyao
Published: January 2023

Recently, deep networks with multiple branches or different filtering methods have achieved good performance in image super-resolution, however, they ignore the fact that some high-frequency components are lost during multiple captures of contextual information by a single branch. To solve this problem, we propose a feature-compensated adaptive fusion shuffle network (CAFN) for image super-resolution. Specifically, we propose a feature-compensated shuffle model (FCSM). It uses branch compensation to compensate for the high frequency information lost by single channel feature transfer. Then, we propose an attention adaptive compensation fusion module (ACFM), which adaptively learns the weight information about the channel structure, and improves the branch compensation method to better adapt to the learned weight information. ACFM can further capture contextual dimension information and extract more high-frequency features. Experimental results show that our proposed CAFN has an excellent performance in terms of both visual results and evaluation metrics.
TaME-seq2: Tagmentation-assisted multiplex PCR enrichment sequencing for viral genomic profiling
Authors: Løvestad Alexander Hesselberg , Stosic Milan , Costanzi Jean-Marc , Christiansen Irene Kraus , Aamot Hege Vangstein , Ambur Ole Herman , Rounge Trine B.
Published: January 2023

Background
Previously developed TaME-seq method for deep sequencing of HPV, allowed simultaneous identification of the HPV DNA consensus sequence, low-frequency variable sites, and chromosomal integration events. The method has been successfully validated and applied to the study of five carcinogenic high-risk (HR) HPV types (HPV16, 18, 31, 33, and 45). Here, we present TaME-seq2 with an updated laboratory workflow and bioinformatics pipeline. The HR-HPV type repertoire was expanded with HPV51, 52, and 59. As a proof-of-concept, TaME-seq2 was applied on SARS-CoV-2 positive samples showing the method's flexibility to a broader range of viruses, both DNA and RNA.
Results
Compared to TaME-seq version 1, the bioinformatics pipeline of TaME-seq2 is approximately 40x faster. In total, 23 HPV-positive samples and seven SARS-CoV-2 clinical samples passed the threshold of 300x mean depth and were submitted to further analysis. The mean number of variable sites per 1000 bp was ~ 1.5x higher in SARS-CoV-2 than in HPV-positive samples. Reproducibility and repeatability of the method were tested on a subset of samples. A viral integration breakpoint followed by a partial genomic deletion was found in within-run replicates of HPV59-positive sample. Identified viral consensus sequence in two separate runs was >99.9 % identical between replicates, differing by a couple of nucleotides identified in only one of the replicates. Conversely, the number of identical minor nucleotide variants (MNVs) differed greatly between replicates, probably caused by PCR-introduced bias. The total number of detected MNVs, calculated gene variability and mutational signature analysis, were unaffected by the sequencing run.
Conclusion
TaME-seq2 proved well suited for consensus sequence identification, and the detection of low-frequency viral genome variation and viral-chromosomal integrations. The repertoire of TaME-seq2 now encompasses seven HR-HPV types. Our goal is to further include all HR-HPV types in the TaME-seq2 repertoire. Moreover, with a minor modification of previously developed primers, the same method was successfully applied for the analysis of SARS-CoV-2 positive samples, implying the ease of adapting TaME-seq2 to other viruses.
Qualitative assessment of the national initiative to implement antimicrobial stewardship centres in French administrative regions
Authors: Conlin Michèle , Leroy Anne-Gaëlle , Asquier-Khati Antoine , Boutoille David , Birgand Gabriel
Published: January 2023

Background: In May 2020, the French Ministry of Health funded the creation of regional antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) coordination centres (CRAtb) in preparation for the new national framework for the prevention of antimicrobial resistance. This study aimed to assess through qualitative methods the implementation process, the activities carried out, and the interactions with other regional stakeholders of the newly created CRAtb.
Methods: We conducted a mixed-method study based on a cross-sectional survey and semi-structured interviews by French regions among implemented CRAtb. Of the eight eligible French regions with an existing CRAtb, seven participated to the online survey. Regional partners involved in AMS from the eight regions were interviewed between September 2021 and April 2022. The survey questionnaire addressed, through closed questions, the organization of the CRAtb, articulation with other regional actors involved in AMS and infection prevention and control, and AMS activities. The semi-structured interviews approached the implementation and the role of the CRAtb, and the collaboration of other AMS and Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) stakeholders. Interview transcripts were analysed using thematic content analysis methodology.
Results: AMS activities carried out by CRAtb were mainly focusing on hospitals (n=3), primary care (n=2) and nursing homes (n=1), and mainly relied on education and training, online communications. CRAtb members reported still being more engaged in providing advices to professionals for individual antibiotic treatments rather than collective-level AMS activities. Interactions were frequent between CRAtb, IPC regional centres and health authorities, but rarely involved other stakeholders. Interviews were performed with 28 professionals involved in AMS from eight regions. Pre-existing networks and working relationships in AMS and more broadly facilitated the implementation of CRAtb. Streamlining and decompartmentalizing IPC and AMS regional activities were considered a way to optimise the prevention of antimicrobial resistance across sectors. The engagement with liberal health professionals was identified as a significant obstacle for CRAtb.
Conclusions: Two years after the launch of a new national framework, the implementation of CRAtb appeared complex in most regions. An integrative model joining IPC and AMS efforts, relying on existing networks, with engagement from liberal health profession organisations may be the next pivotal step.
“It Saved Us”: Parent Perspectives of the 2021 Expanded Child Tax Credit
Authors: Hamilton Leah , Bellisle Dylan , Brugger Laura , Roll Stephen , Fox-Dichter Sophia , Pitman Emily
Published: January 2023

In early 2021, Congress expanded the existing Child Tax Credit (CTC), increasing the credit’s maximum value (up to $3,000 for school-age children and $3,600 for children under the age of six). Half of the credit was issued monthly to most families from July to December 2021. The temporary expansion was further made fully refundable, meaning that for one year, even very low-income families qualified. In this study, we draw on a novel, multi-wave probability-based panel survey of more than 1,000 CTC recipients to understand the credit’s impact on families. Using a mixed-methods approach that combines logistic regression and qualitative content analysis, we find that most respondents reported that the CTC made it easier for them to support their families, afford utility bills, and cover housing costs. Over one-third of respondents also stated that the CTC allowed them to pay for extracurricular activities for their children and save for their child’s future education, and spend more time with their children. In open-ended responses, parents describe that the CTC had a generally positive effect: it helped with bills/utilities, allowed families to save, helped with groceries/food, covered necessities for children, and reduced stress for parents. Conversely, some reported that it had no effects or made no difference. We also assess how participant demographics and political affiliation are associated with each theme.
A Deep Learning Model for the Identification of Active Contraction Properties of the Myocardium Using Limited Clinical Metrics
Authors: Nobrega Igor Augusto Paschoalotte , Mao Wenbin
Published: January 2023

Technological breakthroughs have enhanced our understanding of myocardial mechanics and physiological responses to detect early disease indicators. Using constitutive models to represent myocardium structure is critical for understanding the intricacies of such complex tissues. Several models have been developed to depict both passive response and active contraction of myocardium, however they require careful adjustment of material parameters for patient-specific scenarios and substantial time and computing resources. Thus, most models are unsuitable for employment outside of research. Deep learning (DL) has sparked interest in data-driven computational modeling for complex system analysis. We developed a DL model for assessing and forecasting the behavior of an active contraction model of the left ventricular (LV) myocardium under a patient-specific clinical setting. Our original technique analyzes a context in which clinical measures are limited: as model input, just a handful of clinical parameters and a pressure-volume (PV) loop are required. This technique aims to bridge the gap between theoretical calculations and clinical applications by allowing doctors to use traditional metrics without administering additional data and processing resources. Our DL model's main objectives are to produce a waveform of active contraction property that properly portrays patient-specific data during a cardiac cycle and to estimate fiber angles at the endocardium and epicardium. Our model accurately represented the mechanical response of the LV myocardium for various PV curves, and it applies to both idealized and patient-specific geometries. Integrating artificial intelligence with constitutive-based models allows for the autonomous selection of hidden model parameters and facilitates their application in clinical settings.
A Study on use of Waste Materials as Partial Replacement of Coarse Aggregate in Concrete
Authors: JAIN AYUSH , AGRAWAL GAURAV KUMAR , VERMA PRIYANKA
Published: January 2023

Background: More development approaches more litter, more litter makes natural worries of harmful danger. The use of litter materials for future new products would be a cost-effective and realistic solution to this problem, reducing the tremendous pressure on the country's landfills. Reusing litter as development materials save regular assets, saves energy, diminishes strong waste, brings down air and water contamination, and brings down ozone-depleting substance outflows. The development area can start to recognize and benefit from the advantages of using trash and repurposed materials. Acceptable litter, reused and reusable materials, and strategies have all been explored in numerous studies.
Scope and approach: Due to the scarcity and rising expense of raw materials, the use of shattered tiles, glass, granite in structural components is used in this study. Compressive strength, workability, unit weight, density, cost of concrete made of litter material will be tested in this study. A comparison of all test findings of concrete formed of litter materials with conventional concrete will be done to break down present practices in the building industry regarding litter use and reused materials.
Key findings and conclusion: This study provides an early knowledge of the practice's current strengths and flaws to assist the construction industry in formulating appropriate policies governing the use of trash and reused substances as improvement materials. Nine Samples were used with different proportion and mixes and it was found that 10 % partial replacement of coarse aggregate with glass achieved 26.83 % & 6.39 % more strength than target mean compressive strength (fm) of M20 conventional concrete for 7 & 28 days respectively. 7 day density & 28 day density of concrete cube made with 10 % partial replacement of glass with coarse aggregate was 1.75 % & 0.45 % less than the conventional concrete, this make concrete light and gives more target mean compressive strength (fm) than conventional concrete. All Samples come under medium degree of workability. Slump values are directly proportional to percentage of replacement. Use of this type of concrete will also reduce the dead load of the structure by 0.45 %. Saving of 10 % cost of aggregate can done by using concrete made with 10 % partial replacement of glass with coarse aggregate.