bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of an Electrocautery Surface Coating Method to Suppress Surgical Smoke
Authors: Tokoroyama Takayuki , Ogawa Koki , Murashima Motoyuki , Umehara Noritsugu , Nagano Hosei , Yorozu Takayuki , Uchida Junichi
Published: August 2023

The effectiveness of silicone coatings in preventing coagulated blood adhesion has already been established; however, the coatings’ influence on the generation of surgical smoke has yet to be elucidated. In an electrical circuit model, a proposed model of increased electrical resistance due to coagulated blood adhesion encompasses the electrode, silicone coating, and discharge target. To investigate the viability of an electrocautery surface coating that suppresses surgical smoke, smoke generation was analyzed via discharge experiments using electrocautery tip electrodes with different cross-sectional shapes and electrodes with no coating. The different coated electrodes A (fully covered and thicker than B), B (fully covered), C (side exposed), and uncoated electrode D were evaluated. The particle counts for coated electrodes A, B, C, and D showed approximately 5236, 10328, 812, and 5032 counts/L in 5 s. The electrical circuit model was suggested, and the side exposed electrode can limit the generation of surgical smoke.
Simultaneous Detection of Common Founder Mutations using a Cost- Effective Deep Sequencing Panel
Authors: Shalom Sapir , Hanany Mor , Eilat Avital , Chowers Itay , Ben-Yosef Tamar , Khateb Samer , Banin Eyal , Sharon Dror
Published: August 2023

Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of diseases which cause visual loss due to Mendelian mutations in over 250 genes, making genetic diagnosis challenging and time-consuming. Here we developed a new tool, CDIP (Cost-effective Deep-sequencing IRD Panel) in which a simultaneous sequencing of common mutations is performed. CDIP is based on simultaneous amplification of amplify 47 amplicons harboring common mutations followed by next generation sequencing (NGS). Following five rounds of calibration of NGS-based steps, CDIP was used in 740 IRD samples. The analysis revealed 151 mutations in 131 index cases. In 54 (7%) of these cases, CDIP identified the genetic cause of disease (the remaining were single heterozygous recessive mutations). These include a patient that was clinically diagnosed with retinoschisis and found to be homozygous for NR2E3-c.932G > A (p.R311Q) and a patient with RP who is hemizygous for an RPGR variant, c.292C > A (p.H98N), that was not included in the analysis but is located in proximity to one of these mutations. CDIP is a cost-effective deep sequencing panel for simultaneous detection of common founder mutations. This protocol can be implemented for additional populations as well as additional inherited diseases, and mainly in populations with strong founder effects.
External evaluation of a population pharmacokinetic model of tacrolimus after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in children with thalassemia
Authors: Niu Lulu , Qi Jianying , Li Chengxin , Huang Tianmin , Wu Ting-qing , Xiao Yang , Liu Tao-tao
Published: August 2023

Objective
Tacrolimus (TAC), a narrow therapeutic window drug, several population pharmacokinetic (PopPK) models of TAC have been established to explore its optimized treatment regimen after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). However, there is no evidence of the predictive performance of these models when extrapolated to different clinical centers. We aimed to perform a systematic external evaluation of the published TAC PopPK models and to identify underlying influence elements.
Methods
Published population pharmacokinetic models of oral TAC after HSCT were searched for external assessment using TAC blood trough concentrations of pediatrics with β-thalassemia major (β-TM) after HSCT at the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University. The effect of prior information on model predictability was determined by Prediction error (PE%)、Visual predictive check (VPC)、Normalized prediction distribution error (NPDE) test and Bayesian prediction.
Results
Two published population pharmacokinetic models were evaluated by including 296 oral TAC blood concentrations from 46 children. Evaluation results on the basis of prediction errors, simulations, and Bayesian founded that population of published model may affect the transferability of the model. TAC bioassay methods in different centers may also result in an undesirable predictive performance of model extrapolation.
Conclusion
Individualized dosing with frequent therapeutic drug monitoring during the use of TAC was confirmed to be of clinical value. The two published models of oral TAC after HSCT have performed unsatisfactorily in all aspects of predictive diagnostics and are therefore not suitable for direct extrapolation to use in children with β-TM in our center.
Mean exit times from submanifolds with bounded mean curvature
Authors: Bessa G. PACELLI , Markvorsen Steen , Pessoa Leandro F.
Published: August 2023

We show that submanifolds with infinite mean exit time can not be isometrically and minimally immersed into cylinders, horocylinders, cones, and wedges of some product spaces. Our approach is not based on the weak maximum principle at infinity, and thus it permits us to generalize previous results concerning non-immersibility of stochastically complete submanifolds. We also produce estimates for the complete tower of moments for submanifolds with small mean curvature immersed into cylinders.
Mathematics Subject Classification (2000): Primary 53C42, 58J65; Secondary 58C40, 60J65.
Simulation Experiment on Shaft Deformation Induced by Mining Subsidence under Similar Gravity Field in Deep Soil Strata
Authors: Qin Zhe , Han Xu , Han Jihuan , Yang Weihao
Published: August 2023

To address the shaft deformation issues resulting from mining solid mineral resources in areas with deep soil and thin rock strata, a geotechnical model experiment, namely the seepage force model test, was conducted to simulate the effect of mining disturbance on shaft deformation in the soil section. This simulation was complemented by monitoring data from the model shaft, which allowed the determination of deflection displacements at different protection areas. The results show that there exists an approximately linear relationship between the maximum horizontal displacement of the shaft and the thickness of the mining coal seam. The shaft protection areas in the soil section were redesigned by changing the movement angle from the original 45° to 37.6°. The maximum horizontal displacements of the prototype shaft were reduced to 73.8 mm, 112.7 mm, and 170.9 mm for mining coal thicknesses of 2.7 m, 5.3 m, and 8.0 m respectively, which are 26%, 24.6% and 26.7% of the original design shaft displacements. Combined with the probability integral method, the simulation test results for the shaft protection rock pillars were thoroughly analyzed, leading to the development of a more rational and reliable design approach for the shaft protection rock pillars in regions with deep soil and thin rock strata. These research results are of great significance for effectively preventing and managing mining-induced subsidence disasters, while ensuring the optimal design of shaft protection areas.
Suprapubic lipectomy with tacking of the penis to the pubic bone and its effect on penile length
Authors: Ramzy David , Elahwany Amr , Roaiah Mohamed , Fahmy Mohamed , Said Shady
Published: August 2023

Obesity and significant suprapubic fat, circumcision compounded by scar development, and lichen sclerosis all contribute to the uncommon but significant urological condition known as the concealed penis. In order to enhance the quality of life for individuals with hidden penises, this research devised a novel surgical approach. Removing excess suprapubic fat without using flaps and tacking the penile base to maintain its acquired length. The most novel part of the surgical approach was the development of a better tacking method for the penile base. Twenty patients were included in the study. Surgery consisted of a suprapubic lipectomy, the release of the suspensory ligaments of the penis, and then tacking the penis to the pubic bone. To gauge patient satisfaction, we employed a validated questionnaire, the international index of erectile function (IIEF-5) questionnaire. Tacking sutures between the penile hypodermis and pubic periosteum had a measurably positive effect on penile size and patient satisfaction. This new approach had a measurable impact on patients’ penile length. In addition to improving patients’ subjective sexual satisfaction, which is the core of solving a distressing problem.
New Strategy to Improve the Accuracy of Quantitative Analysis of Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy
Authors: Moon Won-Jin , Yu Seul Gi , Kim Yang Soo , Park Byung-Kyu , Jung Wan-Gil , Song Ho-Jun
Published: August 2023

Elemental quantification of several single crystalline TEM samples of intermediate thickness range that cannot be quantified by the thin-film approximation method and the ZAF correction were investigated using wedge-shaped samples of known thickness fabricated by the FIB technique. "Thickness factor (TF)" and "Thickness correction coefficient (TC)" were proposed as error correction items of "thin-film approximation method" to minimize the quantitative error that occurs when quantifying samples of intermediate thickness with TEM-EDS. As the result of TF correction, the quantification error in an Al2O3 TEM sample by TEM-EDS was reduced from about 52.15% to less than 3.28 (± 2.57) % by the correction of only one time. The self-absorption corrected line profiles and self-absorption corrected elemental mapping images in TEM samples of intermediate thickness range were also obtained by TF correction. As an example of application by TF correction, we proposed a novel method measuring thin-film thickness in normal TEM without the EELS system. The TF correction technique is a unique method to overcome the limitation of EDS quantification in the intermediate thickness range. This technique can effectively quantify characteristic X-ray lines less than 1,000 eV in the sample having intermediate thickness ranges using the conventional TEM-EDS system. It is expected to contribute significantly to understanding various characteristics or material nature related to material composition and sample thickness in nanomaterials because it provides more precise quantitative analysis information than current commercial EDS systems.
Air Pollution in Cities With Unplanned Urban Growth, a Case Study of Toluca Valley: Trends and Health Impacts Compared With Mexico City
Authors: Neria-Hernández Angélica , Mugica-Álvarez Violeta , Colín-Cruz Arturo , Sánchez-Meza Juan Carlos , Amaya-Chávez Araceli
Published: August 2023

Unplanned urban growth is occurring in many cities around the world in developing countries and is associated with social and environmental problems such as air pollution. The case study of the Metropolitan Area of Toluca Valley (MATV) provides a clear example of disorganized urban growth and high levels of air pollution. Since 2019, the IQAir platform has ranked MATV as the city with the worst air quality in Mexico, in terms of PM2.5. Based on this scenario, ten-year (2011-2021) monitoring databases of air criteria pollutants (ACP) from six MATV monitoring stations were processed to establish seasonal and spatial distributions and to estimate the mortality proportion attributable to PM2.5 exposure. The results were compared with the evolution of ACP concentrations and the proportion of mortality attributable to PM2.5 of Mexico City. In addition, COVID-19 lockdown impact on ACP concentrations was also assessed. PM2.5 and PM10 are the main ACP that worsen air quality in MATV and exceed the WHO Air Quality Guidelines (AQG) almost the entire year risking health population. The estimated mortality proportion due to natural deaths (ICD-10) associated with PM2.5 exposure in 2019 for MATV was 11.97% (7.98-15.55) as for Mexico City, 6.95% (4.59-9.1). MATV presented higher levels of ACP and lower reduction percentages than Mexico City Metropolitan Area over the ten-year period, PM and O3 patterns are very similar between cities, suggesting that air pollution is shared. COVID-19 lockdown in 2020 showed a reduction of all ACP concentrations except for O3.
Reaching the Unheard: Overcoming Challenges in Health Research with Hard-to-Reach Populations
Authors: Bekteshi Venera , Sifat Munjireen , Kendzor Darla E.
Published: August 2023

Purpose
Challenges such as the negative consequences of disclosure related to immigration status, limited population size, stigma, and hesitancy to participate due to past traumas often deter researchers from including hard-to-reach populations in their research.
Methods
This article reviews engagement and interview techniques to successfully and ethically include participants from recently settled Afghan refugees in Oklahoma and rural Mexican-born women in Illinois. It concludes with a reflective discussion that focuses on the challenges and lessons learned.
Results
The PIs undertook creative strategies in the pre-and engagement phases of their research: they were receptive to participants' socioeconomic and cultural contexts throughout their interactions; developed partnerships with community partners to establish trust with participants and obtain reliable data; and gathered culturally specific data by focusing on sub-groups, that is, Mexican-born women or recently settled Afghan refugees.
Conclusions
Community engagement at all stages of research is essential for building trust in this hard-to-reach population, achieving inclusivity in health research, and influencing culturally sensitive and effective interventions.
Antioxidant effects of polyphenolic compounds in through the distillation of Lonicera japonica & Chenpi Extract and anti-inflammation on skin keratinocyte
Authors: Kim Hun Hwan , Jeong Se Hyo , Park Min Yeong , Bhosale Pritam Bhangwan , Abusaliya Abuyaseer , Kim Hyun Wook , Seong Je Kyung , Ahn Meejung , Park Kwang Il , Kim Gon Sup
Published: August 2023

The polyphenols in Lonicera japonica & Chenpi distillation extract (LCDE) were thoroughly examined for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Polyphenol compounds in LCDE were analyzed for five peaks using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) combined with mass spectrometry (MS) and determined. Five polyphenolic compounds were identified from the samples and MS data. Ultrafiltration with LC analysis was used to investigate the ability of bioactive compounds to target DPPH. As a result, it was confirmed that the major compounds exhibited a high binding affinity to DPPH and could be regarded as antioxidant-active compounds. In addition, the anti-inflammatory effect of LCDE was confirmed in vitro, and signal inhibition of anti-inflammation cytokines, MAPK and NF-kB pathways was confirmed. Finally, Molecular docking analysis supplements the anti-inflammatory effect through the binding affinity of selected compounds and inflammatory factors. This study will be utilized to give fundamental information for the application of LCDE to the pharmaceutical and pharma cosmetics industries in addition to information on efficient screening techniques for other medicinal plants.
Comparison of the efficiency of seven meta-heuristic algorithms in leak detection on water distribution networks
Authors: Dahaj Maryam Nasiri , Ghazizadeh MohammadReza Jalili , Jabbari Ebrahim , Moasheri Reza , Rezaeizadeh Amirali
Published: August 2023

Leakage in water distribution networks causes water loss, pressure drop, increase in fixing costs, and the possible entrance of pollutants into the networks. Therefore, detecting the un-reported leaks and fixing them is one of the main challenges of water utilities. Since the common leak detection methods are generally costly, time-consuming, and require expert personnel, the use of hydraulic simulation methods to localize leaks has been paid considerable attention in the in recent years. In this study, leak detection is carried out by using the hydraulic model calibration method, defining the objective function based on minimizing the difference between field data and simulated data, and finally optimizing the defined objective function. In the present approach, optimization is performed using meta-heuristic algorithms. Since the more accurate the used algorithm is, the fewer error on the leak detection results will be, it is necessary to compare the algorithms to introduce the best algorithm in hydraulic and leak detection problems. Seven powerful and well-known algorithms in three water distribution networks (WDNs) were analyzed by defining 45 different scenarios of random leakage. Due to the multiplicity of output data, the Chess Ranking System for Evolutionary Algorithms (CRS4EAs) was used for a comprehensive comparison of the studied algorithms. The obtained results showed that the Equilibrium Optimizer is superior to its competitors in terms of the optimal solutions, the reliability of single runs, and the run time. Therefore, EO is suggested to be used for leak detection in WDNs with maximum reliability and minimum calculation time.
Towards fair social distancing in Santiago de Chile: Assessing association of socioeconomic factors with COVID-19 lockdown duration
Authors: Prieto Diana , Martinez Diego A , Pachano-Azuaje Felipe , Feijoo Felipe , Lillo Luis , Martínez Rodrigo , Evans Carlton , Datta Sumona
Published: August 2023

Staged closure and reopening (SCR) lockdowns were implemented in the Santiago Metropolitan Region to slow down COVID-19, at the cost of further exacerbating socioeconomic deprivation. Despite this overarching truth, little is still known about the contribution of disaggregated socioeconomic factors in the severity of the SCR as the outbreak evolved, and how to reduce severity during future lockdowns. This paper uses survival analysis to assess the association between socioeconomic factors and the hazard of reopening or lifting lockdowns in metropolitan regions of Santiago de Chile. When tested in independent Cox proportional hazard models, we found that educational attainment, domestic violence, and income poverty were significant predictors of longer lockdowns. Neither income poverty nor domestic violence is associated with average incidence during the staged lockdowns, highlighting their direct significance in lockdown duration. Beyond the provision of income subsidies, our results point out specific areas of intervention for fair social distancing: Domestic violence should be addressed as part of the lockdown plans with interventions that increase the social support and self-esteem of both victims and perpetrators.
Patient-specific meaningful improvement thresholds for EQ-5D index scores after total hip or knee replacement: a retrospective observational cohort study
Authors: Kuklinski David , Marques Carlos J. , Bohlen Karina , Westphal Karl C. , Lampe Frank , Geissler Alexander
Published: August 2023

Purpose: The aim is to calculate EQ-5D-5L index score thresholds for patients after total hip and knee replacement (THR and TKR), considering patient-specific characteristics to enable a realistic evaluation of surgery outcome.
Methods: In this retrospective observational cohort study, average and patient-characteristics specific meaningful improvements of the EQ-5D-5L index score were calculated via anchor-based receiver operator characteristics curves. Estimations are based on patient-level data from 5,217 primary total hip and knee replacement from two German hospitals.
Results: Post-surgery improvements in health-related quality of life, measured by the EQ-5D-5L index score, were dependent on patient characteristics. The choice of anchor, mobility improvement or pain reduction, determined the size of the unstratified 12-months MI thresholds. For THR, the MI was 0.264 for the anchor mobility improvement and 0.204 for the anchor pain reduction, 0.211 and 0.203 for TKR, respectively. Accuracy of calculated thresholds for both anchors and treatment groups increased for characteristics-specific thresholds.
Conclusions: MI thresholds for post-surgery EQ-5D-5L index scores should consider patient characteristics, are dependent on the anchor and are specific to time windows.
Level of Evidence: Level III, Prognostic study
A Low-cost and Numerically Stable Algorithm to Solve Tridiagonal Systems via Quasiseparable Matrices
Authors: Perera Sirani M. , Bebiano Natalia
Published: August 2023

This paper presents an approach to efficiently solve a system of linear equations characterized by n × n non-singular tridiagonal matrices utilizing quasiseparable structures. By employing sparse factorization of the quasiseparable matrices, we obtain a low-cost, i.e., O(n), in contrast to the brute-force computations associated with solving tridiagonal systems with complexity O(n3). Furthermore, the proposed algorithm provides an alternative method for solving systems of equations having tridiagonal Toeplitz coefficient matrices achieving O(n) complexity algorithm.To ensure the stability and accuracy of the algorithm, we present backward and forward error results in solving the tridiagonal system of equations. Finally, the paper presents signal flow graphs to demonstrate the proposed algorithm's reliability and simplicity and realize it as an architecture for very large-scale integrated circuits. To sum up, the paper offers efficient, exact, and numerically stable algorithms in solving systems of linear equations having non-singular tridiagonal and tridiagonal Toeplitz matrices, providing a compelling alternative to brute-force calculation with a significantly reduced computational cost and digital signal processing architecture of a physical system.
Sleep Duration as a Predictor of Suicidal Ideation Among High-Risk Adolescents
Authors: Ratzon Roy , Reiter Joel , Goltser-Dubner Tanya , Segman Ronen , Weisstub Esti Galili , Benarroch Fortunato , Ran Shlomo Rahmani Zwi , Kianski Ella , Giesser Ruth , Weinberg Pnina Blum , Ben-Ari Amichai , Sela Yaron , Nitsan Moriah Bar , Lotan Amit , Shalev Amit
Published: August 2023

Background: Suicide is the second leading cause of death among youth aged 15 to 24, highlighting the need for improved prediction methods for the assessment of suicidal risk. Identifying modifiable risk factors relevant to adolescents is crucial for suicide prevention. Sleep patterns have been linked to suicidality in adults but lack sufficient study in youth.
Objectives: This prospective study aimed to explore the relationship between objectively- and subjectively-measured sleep characteristics and next-day suicidal ideation in at-risk youth.
Methods: Thirty-three adolescents (12-18 years old) admitted to the psychiatric ward post-suicide attempt or due to suicidal intent within the previous month were included. Objective (actigraphy) and subjective (sleep diary) assessments of sleep patterns were conducted for ten consecutive days. Daily suicidal ideation was evaluated through a questionnaire based on the validated C-SSRS interview.
Results: A negative association was observed between total sleep time and expressing a "death wish" the following day. Each one-hour decrease in objectively measured total sleep time increased the odds of a death wish by 40% (Z=-2.55, p=0.011, CI -0.34 [-0.61, -0.08]). Even after adjusting for sedative medication use and self-reported depression severity, a loss of approximately two hours of sleep predicted a two-fold increase in expressing a death wish the next day.
Conclusions: Our study highlights the interplay between sleep patterns and suicidal ideation, with sleep duration playing a significant role. Short sleep duration increases the likelihood of experiencing suicidal ideation the following day among high-risk youth.
Identifying hotspots of endangered wetland bird in the Marsh Al-Dalmaj / Iraq
Authors: Awad¹ Ahmed , Kadhum¹ Safaa A. , Ishak Mohd Yusoff , Hathal Mustafa M. , Hussein Haider M.
Published: August 2023

The escalating human population, urbanization, anthropogenic activities, overhunting of wetland birds, and habitat fragmentation present persistent challenges to the delicate ecosystem. However, Marsh Dalmaj stands as a vital sanctuary for migrating birds, harboring remarkable biodiversity that underscores the need to prioritize the conservation of wetland avifauna. The study spanned from September 2020 to August 2022. Our methodology encompassed several techniques: (KDE) was employed to delineate suitable and non-suitable habitats, Hotspot Modeling determined the fidelity of suitable habitats, the LST and NDVI algorithms were utilized to monitor climate change, the point count protocol (PCP) enabled precise recording of wetland bird species, and the Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) was employed to predict future scenarios over a span of 50 years. In 2021, the average LST in suitable habitats was 42.37°C, accompanied by an NDVI value of 0.33. In contrast, non-suitable habitats exhibited an average LST of 45.5°C and an NDVI of -0.13. Additionally, the Area of Occupancy (AOO) encompassed 50.83 km² of suitable habitat and 93.21 km² of non-suitable habitat, while the Extent of Occurrence (EOO) covered 144.04 km². These findings suggest that the EOO and AOO of wetland birds are nearing endangered status according to the criteria set by the (IUCN). Furthermore, the analysis identified 14 hotspots within the AOO, with confidence levels ranging from 90–99%, signifying areas of significant ecological importance. We conclude from our study that highlights the key pathways of a 50-year scenario, demonstrating the negative impact of continuous climate change, specifically LST, on marsh bird populations and NDVI. Consequently, it is crucial for the Iraq Environmental Ministry (IEM) to play an active and influential role in shaping environmental policies and promoting sustainable management approaches, particularly in conserving the biodiversity of the Marsh Al-Dalmaj region
Extradural removal of the crista galli to prevent CSF rhinorrhea after the basal interhemispheric approach: A technical note
Authors: Morita Shuhei , Numazawa Shinichi , Watanabe Sadayoshi , Kawamata Takakazu , Mori Kentaro
Published: August 2023

Purpose
Crista galli removal during the basal interhemispheric approach is a possible cause of postoperative cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea because of the pneumatization of this bony ridge communicating with the frontal sinus. Crista galli can be removed either intradurally or extradurally. We discuss these techniques and describe extradural removal with the intention of preventing postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak.
Methods
Representative intradural and extradural removal of the crista galli is explained. Intradural removal carries the risk of a dural defect in the anterior skull base, but extradural removal can be achieved without a dural defect.
Results
The anatomical characteristics of the frontal dura mater and falx cerebri allow for the removal of the crista galli without a dural defect.
Conclusion
Extradural removal of the crista galli is preferable to intradural removal to reduce the risk of postoperative cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea after the basal interhemispheric approach, especially if the crista (galli) is pneumatized.
Desktop-stereolithography 3D printing of a decellularized extracellular matrix/mesenchymal stem cell exosome bioink for vaginal reconstruction
Authors: Shi Wenxin , Zheng Jiahua , Zhang Jingkun , Dong Xiaoli , Li Zhongkang , Xiao Yanlai , Li Qian , Huang Xianghua , Du Yanfang
Published: August 2023

Abstarct
Background
3D-printing is widely used in regenerative medicine and is expected to achieve vaginal morphological restoration and true functional reconstruction.Mesenchymal stem cells-derived exosomes (MSCs-Exos) were applyed in the regeneration of various tissues.The current study aimed to explore the effctive of MSCs-Exos in vaginal reconstruction.
Results
In this work, hydrogel was designed using decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) and gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) and silk fibroin (SF).The biological scaffolds was constructed using desktop-stereolithography.The physicochemical properties of the hydrogels were evaluated.It was observed that the sustained release property of exosomes in the hydrogel both in vitro and in vitro.The results revealed that 3D scaffold encapsulating exosomes expressed significant effects on the vascularization and musule regeneration of the regenerative vagina tissue.Also, MSCs-Exos strongly promoted vascularization in the vaginal reconstruction of rats,which may through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
Conclusions
Our results indicated that the 3D-printed, lumenal scaffold encapsulating exosomes might be used as a cell-free alternative treatment strategy for vaginal reconstruction.
Automatic mud diapir detection using ANFIS Expert Systems algorithm; a case study in the Gorgan plain, Iran
Authors: Hedayat Bahareh , Monfared Mehrdad Soleimani , Losada Luis Somoza
Published: August 2023

Automatic seismic data interpretation is a significant method in oil and gas exploration. Seismic data interpretation makes the decision-making process difficult due to the complexities of the subsurface structures and the extent of related knowledge, and using the expert system method in seismic data interpretation can solve this problem. An expert system is a knowledge-based system that applies its knowledge in a complex and specific area and acts as an expert end-user consultant. This study includes investigating steps of designing an ANFIS expert system for mud diapirs detection with seismic data analysis, due to their importance in the exploration of hydrocarbon reservoirs in the high-potential region of Gorgan Plain. The expert system design process to identify mud diapirs on seismic sections was modeled in two approaches including manual and automatic seismic data interpretation. In the first approach, the experience of the expert was collected by manual interpretation of training data and used to create a knowledge base and inference of the expert system in the second approach. The validation verified the accuracy of this method with an average accuracy of 90.1% according to using minimum knowledge to develop a knowledge base of the designed ANFIS expert system.
Are Males and Minorities Worse Off? How Demographics Fit into College Student Psychiatric Medication Dissatisfaction
Authors: Borgogna Nicholas , Aita Stephen L.
Published: August 2023

There is a need to better understand factors associated with psychiatric medication dissatisfaction in college students. We explored cultural and identity factors associated with psychiatric medication dissatisfaction in isolation and in combination. We also explored relevant covarying factors such as trauma history and psychotherapy utilization. Data were collected from the 2020–2021 as part of the Healthy Minds Study, involving n = 11,421 college students who reported taking medication for a psychiatric disorder. Categorical medication dissatisfaction was modest, n = 847 (7.4%). Results indicated identifying as a biological male and/or a Person-of-Color (with exception to Asian/Asian American students) were associated with significantly greater medication dissatisfaction relative to referent groups (female and White participants). Being married/partnered and having a history of psychotherapy treatment were significantly associated with psychiatric medication satisfaction. Additionally, experiencing emotional, sexual, and/or physical trauma were each associated with higher odds of psychiatric medication dissatisfaction. Results were consistent in isolation and in combination (adjusted for all variables simultaneously). Our findings suggest contextual factors of identity, treatment history, and trauma history as uniquely associated with psychiatric medication dissatisfaction in college students. Treatment providers are encouraged to take a holistic approach when considering intervention recommendations.
MPF and Diffusion Mapping Brain Microstructure in Patients with Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Abramova Victoria , Petrovskiy Evgeniy , Savelov Andrey , Mazhirina Kseniya , Korostyshevskaya Aleksandra
Published: August 2023

Previous studies have illustrated that the cingulate and prefrontal gyrus, along with the amygdala, are involved in emotional processing and the development of abnormal emotional responses in depression. In this study, we utilized advanced quantitative MRI techniques, specifically Diffusion Tensor Imaging, Diffusion Kurtosis Imaging, and Мacromolecular Proton Fraction Mapping, to investigate microstructural differences and alterations in these regions in patients diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder. Our findings revealed no significant interaction between Мacromolecular proton fraction Mapping and diffusion kurtosis parameters with depressive disorder. However, patients with Major Depressive Disorder exhibited a statistically significant increase in mean, axial and radial diffusivity (F = 6.3, p = 0.01, F = 5.0, p = 0.03, F = 7.08, p = 0.01, respectively) in the bilateral amygdala compared to healthy controls, as well as in mean and radial diffusivity in the anterior cingulate cortex (F = 5.61, p = 0.02, F = 7.08, p = 0.01, respectively). These results suggest that altered molecular diffusion characteristics in the amygdala and in the anterior cingulate cortex may be specifically associated with Major Depressive Disorder. The identification of novel markers for brain microstructural changes could have implications for early prediction of depressive disorder. Our study demonstrates the utility of new quantitative MRI techniques in assessing structural alterations on the molecular level in the brain and provides valuable insights into the pathophysiology of depression.
Disulfidptosis-related lncRNAs are potential biomarkers for predicting prognoses in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Ma Guiping , Liu Bowen , Li Xiaobin , Li Feng , Su Xiaopeng , Ran Yun , Hu Shiping
Published: August 2023

Objective: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type of liver cancer. Disulfidptosis is a newly discovered mechanism of programmed cell death. However, the role of disulfidptosis - related lncRNAs (DRlncRNAs) in HCC remains unclear. The purpose of this study is to establish the prognostic model of DRlncRNAs and explore its prognostic value in HCC.
Materials and methods: The relevant clinical data and RNA-seq were obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. The DRlncRNAs were identified via univariate and multivariate Cox regression, lasso algorithm analysis, and then established the prognostic model. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, principal component analysis (PCA), univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis, functional enrichment annotation and the nomogram were used to assess the reliability of risk model. Furthermore, the potential immunotherapeutic signatures and drug sensitivity prediction were also performed. The RT-qPCR was applied to identify the expression of DRlncRNAs.
Results:We constructed a prognostic model with 7 DRlncRNAs and proved the model could well predict the survival and prognosis of HCC patients. Immune correlation analysis suggested that low-risk patients had better immunotherapeutic outcomes. Drug prediction showed that Erlotinib, Gefitinib, Savolitinib, Osimertinib, Lapatinib, Afatinib and Crizotinib were more effective in low-risk patients; Sorafenib, Selumetinib, and Axitinib were more effective in high-risk patients. Finally, the expression of DRlncRNAs in normal liver and HCC cell lines were testified by RT-qPCR.
Discussion and Conclusions: We constructed a risk model and provided a new direction for diagnosing and treating HCC.
Dielectric study of a binary mixture of acrylonitrile with 1,4-dioxane using a TDR
Authors: Dongre D. G. , Gubre A. G. , Garad N. P. , Saknure S. H. , Kumbharkhane A. C.
Published: August 2023

The frequency-dependent complex permittivity spectra (CPS) of acrylonitrile (ACRN) and 1,4-dioxane (DX) binary mixture in the range from 10 MHz to 30 GHz were measured using the time domain reflectometry (TDR) technique. Experimentally obtained CPS was fitted into the Debye equation. Dielectric relaxation behaviors that depend on temperature and concentration were discussed. The obtained dielectric parameters are reported. The Kirkwood correlation and Bruggeman factor have been used to analyze the molecular association and hydrogen bonding interactions in the mixture.
Telegenetics in cardiovascular disease: patient experience and follow-up care
Authors: Temares Dani S. , Liang Lusha W. , Bergner Amanda L. , Reilly Muredach , Kalia Isha
Published: August 2023

Telegenetics played an important role in providing genetic services to patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, at our institution it enabled us to expand our genetic counseling and testing services to non-local family members of patients outside of our prior catchment area. However, as telegenetics continues to be utilized even as social distancing is no longer required, further information is needed regarding the impact of this modality on patient experience and outcomes within cardiogenetics. This study qualitatively explored the experiences of 12 genotype positive individuals who underwent genetic counseling and testing via telegenetics during the first 22 months of the COVID-19 pandemic and compared the outcomes of local vs. non-local patients. Both local and non-local participants discussed similar benefits and drawbacks to the use of technology in telegenetics and overall found the use of telegenetics and at-home genetic testing to be convenient. Both groups also noted having to make changes in their daily lives and future planning as a consequence of the positive genetic testing results. However, access to follow-up care differed between local and non-local participants, with more local participants having scheduled and attended appointments with the appropriate medical providers compared to non-local participants. Supplying non-local patients access to remote cardiogenetic testing may therefore careful consideration in how to ensure proper follow-up care for genotype positive patients and may require the involvement of national professional or patient-centered organizations to help streamline the referral process.
Periodic points of self-maps of a space with π1X = Zps
Authors: Jezierski Jerzy , Zhao Xuezhi
Published: August 2023

The crucial homotopy invariants in Nielsen periodic point theory are the numbers: NPn(f), which is a lower bounds of the number of periodic points of length equal n, and NFn(f) a lower bounds of the number of periodic points of length dividing n. Here f : X → X a self-map of a compact polyhedron.
We derive the formulae of these invariants for self-map of the polyhedron with the fundamental group π1M = Zps and all irreducible classes are essential.
Síndrome do Túnel do Carpo: Atualização Prospectiva Comparativa de Variações Anatômicas em 100 Casos
Authors: Bagno Lais Gomes Lopes Terra , Pardini-Junior Arlindo Gomes , Freitas Afrânio Donato de , Chaves Antônio Barbosa , Maranhão Bruno Kaehler de Albuquerque , Cançado Paula Vilaça Ribeiro , Brito Auro Sérgio Perdigão de , Neder-Filho Antônio Tufi , Rezende Luis Guilherme Rosifini Alves
Published: August 2023

Introdução: A Síndrome do Túnel do Carpo (STC) é uma das patologias mais presentes no cotidiano do cirurgião da mão. O conteúdo clássico do túnel do carpo é bem definido, mas há a presença de várias alterações anatômicas descritas, cujas porcentagens de incidência divergem na literatura. Métodos: estudo prospectivo comparativo para atualização da anatomia cirúrgica de acordo com os achados no tratamento cirúrgico aberto da Síndrome do Túnel do Carpo. Esse presente trabalho foi aprovado pelo comitê de Ética do hospital realizado e pela Plataforma Brasil. O estudo foi realizado durante seis meses, entre julho e dezembro de 2018. A amostra consistiu em pacientes com sintomas clínicos de STC, com queixas de parestesia noturna e/ou alteração de sensibilidade no território do nervo mediano nas mãos e com presença de sinais clínicos positivos. A amostra do estudo foi de 100 pacientes entre 34 e 90 anos, sendo 84 do sexo feminino e 16 do sexo masculino. Resultados: Nessa mesma amostra, nos achados extracanal, foram observados 58 casos de presença de musculatura sobre o ligamento transverso, dos quais 45 de pequena espessura e 13 de espessura muito aumentada sendo que 02 desses foram identificados como musculatura tenar que se fixava na região hipotênar. Intracanal visualizou-se 11 persistências da artéria mediana e 2 presenças de ventres musculares. Conclusão: há divergência na literatura nas incidências das variações anatômicas da Síndrome do Túnel do Carpo entre os estudos de maior relevância internacional.
Influence of the Soil Composition on the Determination of 2,4-D and Fipronil in Environmental Samples by SLE-LC-MS/MS
Authors: Goulart Bianca , Vizioli Beatriz , Espindola Evaldo Luiz , Montagner Cassiana Carolina
Published: August 2023

The main objective of this work was to develop and validate an analytical method using solid-liquid extraction and liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry in tandem (LC-MS/MS) for the simultaneous determination of the herbicide 2-(2,4-dichlorophenoxy)acetic acid (2,4-D) and the insecticide fipronil and its degradation products, fipronil sulfone and fipronil sulfide in different types of soil from Brazil (Oxisol and Entisol). Solid-liquid extraction was performed in two cycles using 20 mL of dichloromethane per cycle and sonication. The extraction efficiency of 2,4-D was more influenced by soil composition than the other compounds. The limits of quantification of the method were between 0.015 and 0.75 mg kg-1 and recovery values from 61 to 118%, with a maximum relative standard deviation (RSD) value of 4%. The method was further applied to over 500 real soil and sediment samples. 2,4-D and fipronil concentrations varied from 0.03 to 1145 µg kg-1 and 1.1 to 282 µg kg-1, respectively.
Pengaruh Senam Aerobik dan Konseling Gizi terhadap Profil Kolesterol Total Wanita Obesitas
Authors: Muslicha Chamida Nur , Sugiyanti Dina , Hartanti Dwi
Published: August 2023

The aim of this study was to determine the difference of obese women’s cholesterol after being given combination of aerobic exercise and nutritional counseling interventions. This pre-experimental study with one group pretest and posttest design was done in Ngadiluwih Village, Matesih Sub-district, Karanganyar District and involved 18 womens who have IMT greather than 25 kg/m2 and selected by purposive sampling technique. The interventions that given to the samples are combinations between 60 minutes aerobic three times a week and nutritional counseling once a week. The data taken were pre-post cholesterol total and analyzed with Wilcoxon test of IBM SPSS Statistics 25 Commuter License. The average of sample’s cholesterol before interventions was 209.56mg / dL while after intervention decreased by 15mg / dL to 194.56mg / dL (p = 0.001). This value indicated that there was a  difference in sample’s cholesterol after interventions. Aerobic exercise three times a week and nutritional counseling once a week can be used as an alternative treatment for hypercholesterolemia in obese women.Tujuan dari penelitian ini untuk mengetahui pengaruh intervensi berupa  senam aerobik dan konseling gizi terhadap profil kolesterol wanita obesitas. Penelitian ini menggunakan desain eksperimental dengan one group pretest and posttest. Berdasarkan hasil perhitungan sampel dengan teknik purposive sampling didapatkan sampel sebanyak 18 orang wanita yang memiliki nilai Indeks Massa Tubuh (IMT) di atas 25 kg/m2. Penelitian ini dilakukan di Desa Ngadiluwih, Kecamatan Matesih, Kabupaten Karanganyar. Sampel penelitian diberikan kombinasi intervensi berupa senam aerobik 3 kali seminggu selama 60 menit dan konseling gizi 1 kali seminggu. Data yang diambil adalah profil kolesterol total pretest-posttest dan dianalisis menggunakan uji Wilcoxon pada IBM SPSS Statistics 25 Commuter License. Rerata profil kolesterol sampel sebelum intervensi yakni 209,56 mg/dL sedangkan setelah intervensi mengalami penurunan sebesar 15 mg/dL menjadi 194,56 mg/dL (p0,001). Nilai p yang diperoleh (p0,001) tersebut menunjukkan bahwa terdapat perbedaan profil kolesterol total sampel setelah diberikan kombinasi intervensi. Kombinasi intervensi berupa senam aerobik 3 kali seminggu dan konseling gizi 1 kali seminggu dapat dijadikan alternatif dalam menangani hiperkolesterolemia pada wanita obesitas.
Optimization of communication performance in wireless seismic monitoring system
Authors: Fan Yonghong , Han Daoping , Li Na
Published: August 2023

In order to improve the communication performance between different equipment in the seismic detection system, a wireless network system with MIMO (Multiple Input and Multiple Output) characteristics was designed and applied in the paper. On the basis of 5G communication, a new data conversion and transmission model was built, which can improve the rate of signal transmission and reduce the bit error rate and power consumption. For the purpose of power optimization, the overall framework of the network system was improved, of which power characteristics and performance were verified. The conjugate beam was normalized, and the cumulative distribution function under different downlink rates was obtained based on the maximum minimum power control scheme. In order to verify the energy-saving effect of the design, the ADC (Analog-to-Digital Conversion) power model is introduced. Through simulation analysis, the change rules of spectrum efficiency and energy efficiency under different network nodes were obtained. The results show that the normalized conjugate beam can be less affected by the transmission nodes, and the power control is more reliable under the same conditions. The research and application of this subject can significantly improve the wireless communication performance of the seismic monitoring system, reduce the power consumption of network equipment, improve the data transmission efficiency, and provide strong technical support for seismic prediction and data analysis. Through the test of artificial earthquake, it is verified that the communication scheme designed in this paper has higher transmission efficiency and lower bit error rate, and is very suitable for the long-distance transmission of seismic signals.
A fault diagnosis method based on dilated convolution and attention for rolling bearing under multiple working conditions and noisy environments
Authors: Zhang Hui , Liu Shengdong , Lv Ziwei , Sang Zhenlong , Li Fangning
Published: August 2023

As essential equipment in rotating machinery, the fault diagnosis technology of rolling bearings has achieved great success. However, it still suffers from limitations in terms of generalization and noise resistance performance when operating under complex conditions. To accurately identify the fault types of rolling bearings under different loads and nosy environments, a novel intelligent fault diagnosis method is proposed. Firstly, the utilization of dilated convolution expands the network's receptive field, thereby effectively enhancing the scope of fault extraction. Then, by incorporating the Efficient Channel Attention (ECA) in different convolutional layers, the extracted features are adaptively recognized, highlighting important representation information and improving fault diagnosis performance. Finally, the proposed network is utilized for rolling bearing fault diagnosis under diverse operating and noise conditions, and its efficacy is evaluated on various datasets. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method exhibits good generalization performance and strong robustness, compared with other methods.