bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Critical region in a one-dimensional flat band lattice with a quasi-periodic potential
Authors: Zhang Yicai
Published: May 2024

In our previous work, the concept of critical region in a generalized Aubry-Andr\'{e} model (Ganeshan-Pixley-Das Sarma's model) has been set up.
In this work, we find that the critical region can be realized in a one-dimensional spin-1 flat band lattice system with a quasi-periodic potential.
It is found that the above flat band lattice model can be reduced into an effective Ganeshan-Pixley-Das Sarma's model
where the effective parameter $\alpha=V_0/(2E)$ with potential strength $V_0$ and eigenenergy $E$. It is shown that there are very rich physics in this model.
Depending on $|\alpha|<1$ or $|\alpha|\geq1$, the effective quasi-periodic potential would be bounded or unbounded. For these two cases, the Lyapunov exponent [$\gamma(E)$], mobility edges ($E_c$) and critical indices ($\nu$) of localized length are obtained exactly.
In addition, several localized state regions, extended state regions and critical regions would appear in the parameter $V_0-E$ plane.
For a given potential strength $V_0$, the localized-extended and localized-critical transitions can co-exist.
Furthermore, we find the critical index of localized length $\xi(E)=1/\gamma(E)$ is $\nu=1$ near localized-extended transitions and $\nu=1/2$ near the localized-critical transitions.
Near the transition point between the bound ($|\alpha|<1$) and unbounded ($|\alpha|\geq1$) cases, i.e, $|\alpha|=|V_0/(2E)|= 1$, the derivative of Lypunov exponent of localized states with respect to energy is discontinuous. The localized states in bounded and unbounded cases can be distinguished from each other by Avila's acceleration. At the end, we find that near the bounded and unbounded boundary, i.e., $|\alpha|\simeq1$, there exist critical-extended transitions in the phase diagram.
Performance Evaluation and Comprehensive Analysis of Lora Network Planning for Iot Deployment Scenarios
Authors: Thyagarajan Jayavignesh , Abraham Aaron Alex , R Aakash , Srivats Karthick
Published: May 2024

Low-Power Wide Area Networks (LPWANs) have been gaining momentum as important pillars of the Internet of Things’ age. These networks are designed to provide coverage for long distances to end nodes, exploiting the license free frequency bands present in the telecommunication space. An extensive study using simulated models, and field trials within the university premises, were conducted to study the performance of a LoRa-based IoT network in various types of deployment scenarios. The work carried out covers all the factors of influence for a stationary LoRaWAN network with a single gateway.
The preliminary results showcase the features and capabilities of an end device present in such a network. In the advanced simulations the effect of select radio propagation loss models on the network performance was understood. Various attributes unique to LoRa have also been investigated in further simulations. The practical experimentation provides insights into the performance of the LoRa-based wireless communication system under line-of-sight (LOS) and non-line-of-sight conditions (NLOS), shedding light on the impact of environmental variables on the signal quality and range capabilities.
This study offers a thorough examination of the diverse deployment scenarios and their influence on the performance metrics of a LoRaWAN network. The insights gained from the results assist in the effective and efficient utilization of resources, enabling optimal network performance and output.
The analysis of liquid phase parameters in the production of methan e from fish meal combined with anaerobic digestion of coal
Authors: Xia Daping , Lv Qingcai , Chen Zhenhong , Zhang Yawei , Xue Pei , Huang Dan
Published: May 2024

To enhance methane production from the anaerobic digestion of lignite coal, fishmeal was usedas an additive, and the influence mechanism on methane production was studied. Methane production experiments were conducted at 35°C using activated sludge as the bacterial inoculum, with varying proportions of coal and fishmeal. The differences in gas production were analyzed using liquid-phase test data such as gas fraction, chemical oxygen demand, and three-dimensional fluorescence spectroscopy and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry data. According to the results of the liquid-phase parameters, across all groups, fishmeal addition resulted in a more stable pH, lower ammonia nitrogen and volatile fatty acid concentrations, more adequate organicmatter decomposition, and efficiently utilized volatile fatty acids. As the fishmeal proportion increased, enzyme activity, the dissolved sugar content, the protein content, and the lipid content first increased and then decreased, and the group with a coal-to-fishmeal ratio of 2:1 exhibited the highest diversity of compounds, with 61 compounds. Moreover, the addition of an appropriate amount of fishmeal enhanced the reaction system, increased the gas and methane production, and shortened the reaction period. At a coal-to-fishmeal ratio of 2:1, the stagewise gas production and methane production was the highest: 480 mL/d and 353.42 mL/d, respectively. Overall, the results of this study provide a novel method for improving methane production based on the anaerobic digestion of lignite coal.
Regulating the Connectivity of Hydrogen Bonding Networks on Pt for Alkaline Hydrogen Oxidation
Authors: Xiao Li , Liu Wei , Mi Zhensheng , Wei Fengyuan , Lyu Kangjie , Li Peng , Wang Gongwei , Chen Shengli , Zhuang Lin
Published: May 2024

The hydrogen bonding network at the electrochemical interface plays a critical role in determining alkaline hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) kinetics. However, strategies for regulating this network are limited, and there is a lack of systematic understanding regarding the regulatory mechanisms. In this study, 16 small organic molecules with varying functional groups were employed to systematically adjust the contact angle between the Pt/C surface and water. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations revealed that the electrostatic potential range (ESPrange) of these molecules can be used as a descriptor to correlate their properties with the hydrophilicity of the modified Pt/C surfaces. The ESPrange also demonstrated a volcanic relationship with HOR exchange current densities (i0,HOR) on the modified Pt/C surfaces. Ab initio molecular dynamics simulations (AIMD) further highlighted that the molecule modifications can increase the potential of zero charge (PZC) of Pt surface and regulate its double-layer capacitance (Cdl). These combined effects influence the crowding of K+ cations in double-layer, thereby impacting the connectivity of the interfacial hydrogen bonding network and the HOR kinetics. The experimental results suggest the i0,HOR of Pt/C can be doubled by appropriately increasing the hydrophilicity and decreasing the Cdl of the Pt surface. The methodology presented in this study is also applicable to investigating hydrophilicity and connectivity of the interfacial hydrogen bonding network regulation on other electrode surfaces.
Atomic perspective on plasticity mechanism of ionic-covalent systems from machine learning molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Hu Wangyu , Yang Guanlin , Peng Hexiang , Huang Jian , Chen Hongjian , Xiao Shifang
Published: May 2024

Due to the diversity of atomic bonding, good plasticity is often considered a hallmark characteristic of metals. Novel plastic inorganic semiconductors like α-Ag2S have challenged this conventional thinking, but relevant first-principles calculations still lack an intuitive and comprehensive understanding of the underlying plasticity mechanisms. From the perspective of machine learning molecular dynamics that can describe the microstructure evolution aptly, this work reveals the plasticity mechanism of the ionic-covalent system α-Ag2S. Shear bands or kink bands originating from random and local micro-kinks signify the plastic features, and the subsequent amorphization enables sustained deformation under high strains. Different from features in metals, the oppositely signed dislocation pairs in α-Ag2S can achieve nucleation and motion through coordinated lattice expansion and contraction, while the twining-like kink triggered in a staggered manner allows the material to accommodate large shear strains. The established idealized models capture the unconventional dislocation pair and pseudo-twinning kink, narrowing the blind area in our understanding of plasticity mechanisms within similar systems. The summarized structural and deformation features provide clear clues for identifying other plastic ionic-covalent crystals in superionic conductors.
A Systematic Cell Phone Trajectories Extraction Approach based on Daily Mobility and Spatiotemporal Clustering Characteristics Analysis
Authors: Li Caixia , Ma Xiaoyi , Chen Xianlong , Chen Jiachao
Published: May 2024

The processing process of OD travel matrix based on traditional traffic surveys requires a lot of manpower, material resources, funds, and time, and cannot be carried out frequently. Cell phone data, as an important supplement to existing transportation data collection methods, provides excellent technical support for extracting OD features of residents' spatiotemporal travel. At present, the stay point judgment for mobile positioning technology mainly focuses on the travel status judgment of cell phone data time series, ignoring the characteristics of user travel activities and travel purposes, such as general user travel activities such as commuting, life, entertainment, and travel. In response to the difficulty in identifying different travel activities, a low-cost and highly accurate method is proposed for determining stay points based on job residence correspondence and spatiotemporal kernel clustering method. The systematic stay points extraction approach, combining with work and residence and POI data analysis, can improve accuracy and rationality of cell phone users’ travel activity characteristics by eliminating signal roaming points and dwell points with central clustering characteristics in continuous short distances through spatiotemporal kernel clustering analysis. The systematic stay points extraction approach combined with spatial and temporal characteristics is implemented in Guangzhou city, results show that travel activity OD pairs given by the systematic stay point extraction approach can clearly presents different travel activity characteristics of users.
The locally crooked permutations and the complete permutations over F2n
Authors: Shuai Li , Li Miao
Published: May 2024

The crooked function has a fixed point $0$ and all its difference set is the complement of the hyperplane. In this paper, we proposed the locally crooked permutation, at least one of its differential sets is the complement of a hyperplane. We found a close relationship between the locally crooked permutation and the complete permutation. Specifically, the complete permutations over $\mathbb{F}_{2^{n}}$ can be obtained from the locally crooked permutations over $\mathbb{F}_{2^{n+1}}$, and vice versa. In particular, we construct the complete permutations with best-known differential uniformity and nonlinearity and the locally crooked permutations with differential uniformity of $4$ over $\mathbb{F}_{2^{2n}}$. Besides, we also found that the existence of the APN permutation that is locally crooked over $\mathbb{F}_{2^{2n+2}}$ is closely related to the nonlinear complete permutation over $\mathbb{F}_{2^{2n+1}}$.
MSC Classification: 05A05 , 11T06 , 11T55
Clinical analysis of pediatric renal abscesses in a single center
Authors: Sun Jin-Shan , Chen ChaoYing , Tu Juan , Geng HaiYun , Li HuaRong , Yan YuChun
Published: May 2024

Background
This study aimed to analyze the clinical data on renal abscesses in children to provide a reference for early diagnosis and treatment.
Methods
The clinical data of 20 children with renal abscesses admitted to a single center were retrospectively analyzed.
Results
The cohort comprised 8 males and 12 females with a median age of 3.5 years. Fever, abdominal pain, appetite loss, vomiting, and urinary tract irritation were common. All children had elevated white blood cell counts, C-reactive protein levels, and erythrocyte sedimentation rates, and half had elevated procalcitonin levels. Only two had normal white blood cell counts in the urine sediment, while the rest showed pyuria. Urine cultures were positive in eight cases, including two each of Enterococcus faecium and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Blood culture was positive for Klebsiella pneumoniae in only 1 case. All 20 underwent renal ultrasound or enhanced CT scan after admission. The latter revealed renal abscess in all children; however, only 9 had renal abscess on renal ultrasound. Fourteen children underwent renal MRI at disease initiation. Nine children presented with congenital urinary tract (CAKUT). All patients were treated conservatively; intravenous broad-spectrum antibiotics were administered for at least 14 days, while 11 were upgraded to meropenem or imipenem. After discharge, all patients were treated with oral antibiotics for at least 14 days. Except for 1 case of recurrence, patients had a good prognosis.
Conclusion
This study clarifies the clinical presentation of renal abscesses in pediatric patients, presenting advice on diagnosis and treatment.
Usefulness of the Structured Objective Examination to Evaluate Paediatric CPR Skills in Medical Students and Measures to Improve Training.
Authors: López-Herce Jesús , Aleo Esther , González Rafael , Group UCM Paediatric CPR Training
Published: May 2024

Background: analyse the usefulness of the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) to evaluate the skills of medical students in paediatric basic life support (PBLS), compare both training models and evaluate measure to improve the teaching programme.
Methods: comparative, prospective, observation study with intervention in two hospitals, one undergoing a PILS course (Paediatric Immediate Life Support) and another PBLS. The study was performed over three phases. 1. PBLS OSCE in 2022 three months after the training 2. Measures to improve the training programme 3. PBLS OSCE in 2023. Overall results were analyzed and results compared between both sites and those for 2022 and 2023.
Results: a total of 210 and 182 students took part in 2022 and 2023, respectively. The overall mean score out of 100 was 77.8 and 89.5 in 2022 and 2023, respectively. P=.000. Overall cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) effectiveness was adequate in 79.4% and 84.6% of students in 2022 and 2023, respectively. The results of hospital students undergoing a PILS course were much better than those undergoing a PBLS. The results from both hospitals improved significantly in 2023.
Conclusions: The OSCE is a valid instrument to evaluate PBLS skills in medical students and to compare the different training methods and improve. Medical students who receive a PILS attain better PBLS skills than those who undergo a PBLS course.
Diagnostic methodology for vehicles equipped with Antilock Braking System and Electronic Stability Control
Authors: BETANCUR J. Alejandro , CASTILLO Andrés , RAMOS Edwin , VARGAS Héctor , OCHOA Javier , SANCHEZ Carlos
Published: May 2024

Currently, several automotive companies are joining forces through the analysis and development of active safety systems for hazard avoidance and mitigation; from which according to the current regulations in the European Union the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) outstand as mandatory for each new vehicle. The above has motivated the study of these two safety systems. Then, this research examines the ABS and ESC systems through a proposed diagnostic methodology, which identifies the main effect of these systems on the vehicle dynamics. To achieve this goal a software was developed, looking for processing the data acquired during the development of some specific vehicle maneuvers. The diagnostic results expose: 1) an indicator about the ABS/ESC systems performance; and 2) the impact of these systems on the vehicle dynamics; also, some of the results here obtained can also be taken as reference for the Brake Assistant System and the Anti-Roll Control analysis.
Proposal for a monolithic silicon-on-insulator resonator spiking neuron
Authors: Tamura Marcus , Morison Hugh , Tait Alex , Shastri Bhavin
Published: May 2024

Increasingly, artificial intelligent systems look to neuromorphic photonics for its speed and its low loss, high
bandwidth interconnects. Silicon photonics has shown remarkable promise to enable the creation of large scale neural
networks. Here, we propose a monolithic silicon opto-electronic resonator spiking neuron. It uses optical feedback from
the transmission of a continuously pumped microring PN modulator to achieve excitable dynamics. It is cascadable, capable of operating at GHz speeds,
and compatible with wavelength-division multiplexing schemes for linear weighting. It is a Class 2 excitable device via
a subcritical Hopf bifurcation constructed from devices commonly found in many silicon photonic chip foundries.
Senescence Reprogramming by MTHFD2 Deficiency Facilitates Tumor Progression
Authors: Wang Ping , Fang Zhou , Pei Wei , Wu Qi , Niu Tingting , Dong Chengyuan , Wu Mingkang , Li Bei , Gao Zhijie
Published: May 2024

Background
Age is a critical risk factor for cancer, as its incidence and mortality increase with age. However, there's limited understanding of the molecular changes aging induces in tumors.
Methods
We explored demographic differences between young and old cancer patients and identified age sixty and above as pivotal in cancer prognosis. Subsequently, we developed an aging-related prognostic model based on genes to assess senescence's impact on aging-associated cancer.
Results
Our study revealed increased genomic instability and somatic mutations in tumors from older individuals. We also found alterations in carcinogenic signaling pathways, particularly immune responses, inflammatory pathways, and cell cycle arrest in susceptible populations. Single-cell RNA sequencing showed heightened frequencies of exhausted T cells, myeloid cells, and B cells in high-risk cohorts.
Conclusion
MTHFD2 emerged as a crucial molecular switch regulating senescence in cancer. Its deletion promoted tumor growth by inducing cell senescence and stimulating the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) in senescent tumor cells. This highlights the need for tailored methodologies in effective cancer management.
Quantitative Measurement of the Tack for Carbon Fiber Reinforced Epoxy Prepreg by Using a Compression-to-tension Method
Authors: Wang Xueming , Li Guoli , Liu Xiu , Li Shaoliang , Pang Baolin
Published: May 2024

Aim to the current lack of standardized testing for prepreg tack, this paper established a quantitative testing method for prepreg tack - a compression-to-tension method, and proposed a parameter of Compression Tack Index (CTI) as a quantitative evaluation index for prepreg tack. The prepreg / prepreg tack and prepreg / metal tack of carbon fiber reinforced epoxy prepreg were evaluated and verified the applicability of this compression-to-tension method, comparing with the qualitative testing method for vertical metal plates. The results show that the compression-to-tension method is suitable for quantitative testing of the tack for unidirectional prepregs and fabric prepregs with a good repeatability and stability of test results, and is not affected by personnel changes. Compared with the vertical metal plate method, the discrimination of the test results by the compression-to-tension method is significant. The tack of the slitting prepreg without PE film coating is lower than that of the mother prepreg with PE film.
Adjusting microwave sensing frequency through aspect ratio variation and bending repetitions in Permalloy ellipses
Authors: Kim Nayeon , Seo Dongpyo , Kim ByungRo , Kim Youjung , Yoon Seungha , Kim Jin Hyeok
Published: May 2024

The Ferromagnetic Resonance (FMR) phenomenon, marked by the selective absorption of microwave frequencies by magnetic materials in the presence of a magnetic field, plays a pivotal role in the development of radar absorbing materials, high speed magnetic storage, and magnetic sensors. This process is integral for technologies requiring precise control over microwave absorption frequencies. We explored how variations in resonance fields can be effectively modulated by adjusting both the shape and stress anisotropies of magnetic materials on a flexible substrate. Utilizing polyethylene-naphthalate (PEN) as the substrate and Permalloy (noted for its positive magnetostriction coefficient) as the magnetic component, we demonstrated that modifications in the aspect ratio and bending repetitions can significantly alter the resonance field. The results, consistent with Kittel's equation and the predictions of a uniaxial magnetic anisotropy model, underscore the potential for flexible substrates in enhancing the sensitivity and versatility of RF-based magnetic devices.
Arsenic leakage crisis in electric car supply chain: water quality footprint of cobalt mining demands action
Authors: Schomberg Anna , von Tümpling Wolf , Kynast Ellen , Bringezu Stefan
Published: May 2024

Uncontrolled mine site leakage poses massive indirect environmental pollution, particularly when harmful substances, like arsenic, infiltrate water bodies, affecting humans. Arsenic contamination, recognized as a severe environmental catastrophe, exemplifies the water quality footprint from a Moroccan cobalt mine supplying electric car construction. Applying the water quality footprint method, we determined that 30 to 610 m3 of virtual dilution water per electric car would be needed to reduce arsenic pollution below natural background levels. This single mine's water quality footprint constitutes up to 0.3 % of Morocco's annual water availability, concerning all electric cars produced annually with cobalt from this mine, and corresponds to the full annual capacity of one seawater desalination plant. This underscores the risk of problem shifting with climate-friendly technologies, prompts reflection on due diligence in supply chains under German and upcoming European legislation and highlights the shared responsibility of industry, society and politics.
A Collaborative and Real-Time Model for Trusties Content in Social Media
Authors: HAMIMED Lyazid , AMAD Mourad , BOUDRIES Abdelmalek
Published: May 2024

Recently, social media is becoming a stronger tool for spreading news in the world. These platforms make it easy for anyone to disseminate their ideas, flood the world by different types of information. In order to minimize the inconvenience of fake news inundation, most of the developed techniques aim at detecting fake news by exploring how they propagate on the social media. Minimizing the negative effect of this kind of information, needs stronger mechanisms to detect fake news at an early stage by focusing on their contents. This paper proposes a new model for trusties’ content in social media. Its basic idea consists of combining news content and their propagation behavior over the social network. This model simulation shows that the susceptible fake news can be accused at an early stage. The performance evaluations show that the results are globally satisfactory.
Personalized and collaborative care are crucial elements for sustained engagement with digital measurement-based care tools: A mixed-methods study
Authors: Chong Min K , Hickie Ian B , Ekambareshwar Mahalakshmi , Poulsen Adam , McKenna Sarah , Hutcheon Alexis , Hockey Samuel J , Scott Elizabeth M , Iorfino Frank
Published: May 2024

Background
Measurement-based care (MBC) involves regular symptom monitoring and feedback, enabling early detection of mental health deterioration and allowing clinicians to adjust interventions accordingly. However, its uptake in youth mental health services remains minimal. This study aims to explore perceived barriers and facilitators for sustained use of MBC and the potential of digital technologies to enhance its engagement in young people.
Methods
A mixed-methods study comprising focus groups and surveys was conducted with young people who had previously accessed mental health services. Template analysis was used to analyze qualitative data, and descriptive analyses were performed with quantitative data.
Results
Eighteen young people (mean age = 21.7 years; SD = 3.4) participated in this study. Surveys showed high agreement with the value of MBC (15/18) and a low rate of discomfort with progress evaluation (11/18). Focus groups revealed collaborative data review with clinicians as a key facilitator which fueled future engagement with data inputs and reviews. However, generalization when interpreting data and incomplete representation of mental health by using irrelevant standard measures discouraged the use. Participants suggested digital features for accessibility and data interpretation to enhance consistent engagement with MBC.
Conclusions
The findings indicate that young people’s motivation and sustained engagement in MBC stem from their comprehension of how collected data fosters shared decision-making and personalize treatment. Therefore, regular, collaborative data review sessions are crucial in cultivating a sense of autonomy and purpose in care for young people. This study highlights the importance of data review in enhancing the uptake of MBC, a factor that is often overlooked. By demonstrating this, the study provides a deeper understanding of motivators in MBC and valuable insights for mental health services to explore strategies that regulate data review. To this end, an exemplary way forward would be to develop technologies that facilitates client-clinician communication and empowers young people to advocate for personalized care.
Semantic information extraction method of loom multi-sensor model based on Deep learning
Authors: Xiao Yanjun , Ning Fuan , Pei Eryue , Wan Feng
Published: May 2024

In order to improve the accuracy of feature extraction and multi-dimensional semantic information expression of Timesnet model, this paper proposes a semantic information extraction method based on graph neural network and Wavelet-Timesnet. The timesnet model introduces wavelet transform to enhance the ability to extract local semantic information in complex environments, and the graph neural network is used to enhance the representation ability of multi-dimensional information. The self-attention mechanism is used in the multi-dimensional semantic extraction model to improve the weight allocation effect between nodes. Taking the rapier loom multi-sensor model as an example, the accuracy of one-dimensional semantic information extraction reaches 99.29%, and the accuracy of multi-dimensional semantic information model reaches 92.8%, which is significantly better than other mainstream feature extraction algorithms. It plays an important role in improving the perception and prediction ability of current complex industrial field equipment.
Knowledge and practices of pregnant women regarding iron deficiency anemia in the Eastern Region of Ghana
Authors: Quayson Ebenezer , Jancy Helena S. , Okyere-Boateng Hannah , Afful-Mensah Elsie
Published: May 2024

The prevalence of iron deficiency anemia in Ghana persists despite the national health policy of routine iron supplementation and education for pregnant women during antenatal care. This makes it worrying and as such, studies should be conducted to uncover why there is an increase in iron deficiency among pregnant women, after the national interventions to prevent the phenomenon. Thus, the study aimed to assess the knowledge, practices, and the relationship between knowledge and practices of pregnant women regarding iron deficiency anemia. A descriptive cross-sectional study design with a quantitative approach and convenient sampling method was used in conducting the study. A Standard closed-ended questionnaire was used to elicit responses from registered respondents. The study revealed that 69.5% of the respondents’ responses depicted good knowledge of iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy and 65% showed good practices on iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy. There was a positive correlation (r = 0.68) between knowledge level and practices of iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy. Pregnant women who received antenatal care at Anum's Salvation Army Hospital demonstrated adequate knowledge and behaviors for preventing iron deficiency anemia. It was recommended that midwives intensify health education on clinical manifestations of iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy.
Comparative Evaluation of Focused Cardiac Ultrasound Training Programs: Cardiac Sonographers-led vs. Senior Intensivists-led
Authors: Chen Ming , YE Qiaoliang , Chen Rongrong , Huang Ningjie , Zheng Liling , Qiu Luzhen , Kang De , Chen Xiaoyan
Published: May 2024

Background
The feasibility and benefits of Focused Cardiac Ultrasound (FCU) in emergency situations have been established. Rapid urgent echocardiography during resuscitation can aid in swift differential diagnosis, provide guidance for diagnosis and treatment interventions, and enhance the survival outcomes of critically ill patients. Existing training programs typically encompass fundamental theoretical knowledge, hands-on skills acquisition, group-based instruction, and practical application. The objective of this study was to investigate the variance in training efficacy between FCU training conducted by cardiac sonographers(CS) and the conventional model of FCU training led by Senior Intensivists(SI).
Methods
In this retrospective study, we collected the echocardiographic data carry out by ICU physicians who were trained by either CS or SI. An evaluation of echocardiographic performance was conducted using the objective structured clinical examination (OSCE). Trainees generated static images of specific parts of the heart (the five-chamber heart of the apex and the long axis of the sternum), accurately annotated twelve cardiac anatomical structures. The images were subsequently scored by two senior cardiac sonologists using a standardized checklist.
Results
After training, both groups of trainees demonstrated substantial improvement (p < .0001). Specifically, the average score for trainees under the guidance of CS increased from 4.3 ± 1.4 to 16.2 ± 1.4, whereas those under the supervision of SI saw an increase from 4.0 ± 1.3 to 14.7 ± 1.1.
Conclusion
The study demonstrates that while both groups exhibited notable improvement in skill levels, trainees guided by CS showed superior proficiency compared to those guided by SI. The findings suggest that while SI can effectively enhance echocardiographic skills in trainees, the expertise of experienced CS offers distinct advantages in teaching complex skills.
Potential of 20th Century North Anatolian Fault Style Domino Effect of the February 6, 2023, Kahramanmaraş Earthquake on the Centuries Long Dead Sea Fault Seismic Quiescence.
Authors: Altunel Erhan , Kozacı Özgür , Yıldırım Cengiz , Sbeinati Reda , Meghraoui Mustapha
Published: May 2024

Field observations conducted immediately following the February 6, 2023, M 7.8 Kahramanmaraş Earthquake documented the southern surface rupture termination in the Amik Basin. The termination occurred in an en-echelon pattern, stretching across the 3.5 km width of the approximately 10.5-kilometer-wide stepover. This extension reached towards the northern tip of the Hacıpaşa Fault, which constitutes the main northern segment of the Dead Sea Fault Zone (DSFZ). Archaeological and paleoseismologic data show that the approximate 800-kilometre-long DSFZ has been seismically quiet for more than 600 years in the north and 900 years in the south. A similar fault connection geometry at the western end of the 1939 Ms 7.9 Erzincan earthquake in the easternmost part of the North Anatolian Fault Zone and the subsequently triggered successive large magnitude earthquakes migrating westward within a few decades highlights an increased seismic hazard for the entire DSFZ. This heightened seismic hazard potential along the DSFZ, combined with historical population centers experiencing wars and migrations, puts millions of people at an unparalleled risk.
Machine Learning for COVID-19 Patient Management: Predictive Analytics and Decision Support
Authors: Hadi Christopher El , Saliba Rindala , Maalouly Georges , Riachy Moussa , Sleilaty Ghassan
Published: May 2024

Background. The global impact of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has profoundly affected economies and healthcare systems around the world, including Lebanon. While numerous meta-analyses have explored the systemic manifestations of COVID-19, few have linked them to patient history. Our study aims to fill this gap by using cluster analysis to identify distinct clinical patterns among patients, which could aid prognosis and guide tailored treatments.
Methods.We conducted a retrospective cohort study at Beirut's largest teaching hospital on 556 patients with SARS-CoV-2. We performed cluster analyses using K-prototypes, KAMILA and LCM algorithms based on 26 variables, including laboratory results, demographics and imaging findings. Silhouette scores, concordance index and signature variables helped determine the optimal number of clusters. Subsequent comparisons and regression analyses assessed survival rates and treatment efficacy according to clusters.
Results. Our analysis revealed three distinct clusters: "resilient recoverees" with varying disease severity and low mortality rates, "vulnerable veterans" with severe disease and high mortality rates, and "paradoxical patients" with a late severe presentation but eventual recovery.
Conclusions. These clusters offer insights for prognosis and treatment selection. Future studies should include vaccination data and various COVID-19 strains for a comprehensive understanding of the disease's dynamics.
Esculentin-2CHa (GA30) mitigates copper-induced redox imbalance and behavioural deficit in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Udochukwu Onyedika L. , Oyibo Aghogho , Falobi Ayodele A. , Abolaji Amos O. , Ojo Opeolu O.
Published: May 2024

Excess copper ion (Cu2+) has been implicated in various pathological conditions involving oxidative stress and inflammation. This study investigated neuroprotective effects of esculentin-2CHa-(GA30) on copper-induced toxicity in Drosophila melanogaster. Flies were treated with esculentin-2CHa (5.0 and 7.5 µM/kg diet) and/or Cu2+ (1mM) orally for 5 days. Effects of esculetin-2CHa-(GA30) on markers of redox-antioxidant status and neuro-behavioural activities were assessed. Esculetin-2CHa-(GA30) did not affect survival rate but reversed the effect of copper on eclosion rate. Esculetin-2CHa-(GA30) dose-dependently mitigated Cu2+-induced elevation of hydrogen peroxide (15.1–15.8%, P < 0.05), thiobarbituric reactive substance (37.2–55.1%, P < 0.01–0.001) and protein carbonyl (20.7–63.8%, P < 0.05–0.001). Esculetin-2CHa-(GA30) ameliorated Cu2+-induced inhibition of catalase (1.5–1.7-fold, P < 0.01–0.001), glutathione S-transferase activities (1.5–2.1-fold, P < 0.01–0.001) and decline in non-protein thiols levels (13.6–27.7%, P < 0.05). Esculetin-2CHa-(GA30) reduced Cu2+−induced elevation of monoamine oxidase (21.7–39.7%, P < 0.05–0.01) and acetylcholinesterase (40.1–55.9%, P < 0.01–0.001) activities. Copper-induced impaired locomotor activities were dose-dependently improved in esculentin-2CH-(GA30)-treated flies (21.4%, P < 0.05 and 72.1%, P < 0.01). Histological assessments indicated the ability of esculentin-2CHa-(GA30) to sequester Cu2+ in the microglia. In conclusion, esculentin-2CHa-(GA30) exhibited its neuroprotective effects through improved balance of redox status and associated behavioural characteristics. Further studies to delineate molecular mechanisms underlying observed effects would be required.
PPAR agonists in Primary Biliary Cholangitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Faria Hilária Saugo , Sobral Milene Vitória Sampaio , Soares Victor Gonçalves , Cavalheiro Thainá Torres , Nishimoto Beatriz , Pirolla Rafaela Cunha , Sampaio Ana Paula , Gonçalves Ocílio Ribeiro , Costa Daniela Gomez , Souto Eduardo Buzatti
Published: May 2024

Introduction
Agonists of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) have attracted attention for their potential to treat primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). However, individual trials lack sufficient power to detect significant differences in clinical and laboratory outcomes.
Objectives
This meta-analysis aims to compare PPAR agonists versus placebo or standard treatment in patients with PBC.
Methods
We systematically searched PubMed, Embase and Cochrane for studies comparing PPAR agonists with placebo or standard-of-care treatment in PBC. The primary outcomes were pruritus, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and total and direct bilirubin levels. We performed statistical analyses using R 4.1.1. Heterogeneity was examined with the Cochran Q test and I2 statistics. We computed risk ratios (RR), mean differences (MD), and Standardized Mean Differences (SMD), with 95% confidence intervals (CI), using a random-effects model.
Results
Thirteen randomized controlled trials were included in this meta-analysis, comprising 1,124 patients, of whom 687 (57%) received PPAR agonists plus UDCA. When compared with control, PPAR analogs were significantly associated with a reduction in pruritus (RR 0.63; 95% CI 0.41 to 0.96; p = 0.031; I²=9%), ALP (MD -130.93; 95% CI -156.44 to -105.42; p < 0.01; I²=84%), GGT (MD -39.83; 95% CI -78.44 to -1.22; p = 0.04; I²=94%) and total bilirubin levels (SMD − 0.03; 95% CI -0.06 to -0.01; p < 0.01; I²=69%).
Conclusion
The use of PPAR agonists reduced the incidence of pruritus and the levels of ALP, GGT, and total bilirubin in patients with PBC.
The WWI and the risk of chronic kidney disease: A national prospective cohort study
Authors: Xie Juan , Dou Haijing , Wang Hongmei , Sun Xuan , Lei Yi , Bai Lin , Liu Jun , Li Hailun , Xu Yong , Li Xiang , Zheng Donghui
Published: May 2024

Objective: The weight-adjusted waist circumference index (WWI) is a more robust indicator of visceral obesity than body mass index (BMI). Cross-sectional studies have demonstrated an association between the WWI and an increased incidence of chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, longitudinal evidence to support this relationship is neither conclusive nor sufficient. This study aimed to prospectively evaluate the relationship between the WWI and CKD.
Methods: This was a prospective cohort study of 10200 community residents aged ≥ 45 years without CKD who were recruited from the Chinese Healthand Longevity Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) and who were followed for up to 8.0 years. Both men and women were categorized into four groups based on the sex-specific quartile of the WWI at the time of inclusion in the trial. CKD was based on self-reported physiciandiagnoses. The relationship between the WWI and CKD occurrence was analyzed through log-rank tests and survival curves before using nonrestricted cubic splines. Finally, we performed a sensitivity analysis to check the robustness of our findings.
Results: In total, 4809 men and 5391 women were included in the trial, with an average age of 67.43 ± 9.55 years. A total of 723 patients were diagnosed with CKD during the 8-year follow-up period. The prevalence of CKD in each group was 5.86%, 4.89%, 6.16%, and 6.83%, respectively, in the female subgroup. After adjusting for covariates, the hazard ratio (HR) (95% CI) in the lowest quartile was 1.56 (1.04 - 2.34), that in the third quartile was 1.59 (1.08 - 2.34), and that in the highest quartile was 1.53 (1.01 - 2.31) compared to that in the second quartile. However, in the male subgroup, the prevalence of CKD in each group was 8.80%, 8.51%, 7.85%, and 8.37%, respectively. After adjusting for various variables, the incidence of CKD did not significantly differ among the groups (P>0.05).
Conclusion: In summary, this study showed that the WWI is significantly linked to the risk of CKD in women, even after adjusting for covariates. This finding underscores the important role of weight management in the prevention and treatment of CKD among the female population. Thus, the adoption of measures to control central obesity among the female population is essential for preventing CKD.
Monitoring and early warning of ovarian cancer using high-dimensional non-parametric EWMA control chart based on sliding window
Authors: Wu Bin , Zhong Wen , Ren Yixing , Zhou Zhongli , Liu Liu
Published: May 2024

Ovarian tumors are one of the common ovarian dysfunctions in women, which to some extent affect women's normal work and life. Although ovarian tumors are usually sensitive to chemotherapy, and typically show initial efficacy with platinum/taxane treatment, the postoperative recurrence rate in advanced patients is very high. There have been a considerable number of researchers working to establish new methods to monitor and warn about the progression and prognosis of this malignant tumor disease. One commonly used approach is to first reduce the dimensionality of the data using methods such as principal component analysis, LASSO, deep learning, etc., to select several features most relevant to malignant tumors. Then, either a one-dimensional control chart is used for multiple monitoring and warning of different indicators, or a multivariate control chart is directly used to monitor and warn about the selected indicators. However, in actual data, different features are not completely independent of each other. Using a one-dimensional control chart for multiple monitoring and warning of different indicators may overlook the interactions between different features. Additionally, reducing the dimensionality of the data may result in the loss of some data information, leading to the omission of details, which may affect the accuracy of the model and result in delayed alarms and poor predictive performance. Therefore, this paper proposes a non-parametric monitoring scheme based on high-dimensional empirical likelihood test and sliding window model of EWMA type, for direct online monitoring and warning of high-dimensional ovarian tumor data. We compared this approach with a multivariate EWMA control chart after dimensionality reduction, and Monte Carlo numerical simulation results showed that the high-dimensional non-parametric EWMA monitoring scheme indeed detects tumor data changes faster and issues alarms more promptly than the dimensionality-reduced multivariate EWMA control chart. Furthermore, we further validated the effectiveness of the high-dimensional non-parametric EWMA monitoring scheme in monitoring and warning using tumor resection data from the Third Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University as an example.
Speaker identification using hybrid subspace, deep learning and machine learning classifiers
Authors: KESER Serkan , GEZER Esra
Published: May 2024

Speaker identification is crucial in many application areas, such as automation, security, and user experience. This study examines the use of traditional classification algorithms and hybrid algorithms, as well as newly developed subspace classifiers, in the field of speaker identification. In the study, six different feature structures were tested for the various classifier algorithms. Stacked Features-Common Vector Approach (SF-CVA) and Hybrid CVA-FLDA (HCF) subspace classifiers are used for the first time in the literature for speaker identification. In addition, CVA is evaluated for the first time for speaker recognition using hybrid deep learning algorithms. This paper is also aimed at increasing accuracy rates with different hybrid algorithms. The study includes Recurrent Neural Network-Long Short-Term Memory (RNN-LSTM), i-vector + PLDA, Time Delayed Neural Network (TDNN), AutoEncoder + Softmax (AE + Softmaxx), K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Common Vector Approach (CVA), SF-CVA, HCF, and Alexnet classifiers for speaker identification. The six different feature extraction approaches consist of Mel Frequency Cepstral Coefficients (MFCC) + Pitch, Gammatone Cepstral Coefficients (GTCC) + Pitch, MFCC + GTCC + Pitch + eight spectral features, spectrograms,i-vectors, and Alexnet feature vectors. For SF-CVA, 100% accuracy was achieved in most tests by combining the training and test feature vectors of the speakers separately. RNN-LSTM, i-vector + KNN, AE + softmax, TDNN, and i-vector + HCF classifiers gave the highest accuracy rates in the tests performed without combining training and test feature vectors.
Ranking Failure Modes with Pythagorean Fuzzy Rough VIKOR: A Case Study in Automatic Washing Machines
Authors: Shahzadi Sundas , Chohan Maryum , Zafar Fariha
Published: May 2024

Failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) is known for its remarkable and exceptional ability to recognize , evaluate, and remove possible failure modes in various industrial applications. It offers a broad point of view for scrutinizing possible failures, their roots, and their consequences in processes, manufactured articles, and designs. The conventional FMEA method has faced significant criticism due to its difficulties in accurately determining the weight of risk factors, recognizing the priority of failure modes, and handling vagueness during risk assessment. A new linguistic assessment model called Pythagorean fuzzy rough VIKOR is introduced to address these shortcomings. This model utilizes a combination of Pythagorean fuzzy numbers and rough information to improve the accuracy and effectiveness of risk assessment. We also apply the suggested VIKOR method to identify the less or more severe problems. Before applying the VIKOR method, we find criteria weights using the Pythagorean fuzzy rough entropy method. The importance of our proposed method has been discussed in the case study of an automatic washing machine. Different comparison studies show that the Pythagorean fuzzy rough method effectively addresses subjectivity and uncertainty when evaluating failure modes. This paper provides evidence to support using the Pythagorean fuzzy rough VIKOR (PFR-VIKOR) technique for ranking failure modes. This approach has demonstrated exceptional benefits in dealing with subjective and uncertain factors during the evaluation process.
Population genetic structure of Yesso scallop (Mizuhopecten yessoensis) of Russian Far East revealed by mitochondrial and microsatellite genetic markers
Authors: Khamatova Aleksandra , Malyar Vasily , Yagodina Viktoriia , Bondar Evgeniia
Published: May 2024

Yesso scallop (Mizuhopecten yessoensis) is one of the main marine aquaculture species of the Russian Far East. However, the population size of this species is declining due to overfishing and habitat loss. As the population genetic structure of the scallop from Russia is poorly studied, we analyzed polymorphism of the noncoding region mitochondrial DNA (NcR2) and seven microsatellite loci. Genetic diversity and structure of M. yessoensis populations from four geographical areas of the Sea of Japan and the Sea of Okhotsk were revealed. A total of 24 haplotypes with the one main observed in all studded populations were identified. All populations had high genetic diversity with mean expected heterozygosity from 0.612 to 0.687 and haplotype diversity from 0.619 to 0.793, except for the northern sample from the Terpeniya Gulf (h = 0.47). Small but statistically significant genetic differentiation was observed between the southern population from the Posyet Gulf (Sea of Japan) and populations from the Terpeniya Gulf and Busse Lagoon (Sea of Okhotsk). Despite the high genetic variation between populations, low differentiation, and weak geographical separation was observed that suggest Yesso scallop forms the Sea of Japan and the Sea of Okhotsk to be one panmictic population. Our results could provide useful information for resource management and genetic monitoring of the economically and ecologically important species of marine bivalves.