bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microfragmented adipose tissue for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the hip: preliminary results
Authors: AKKEMİK Ümit , ALİYEV Dostali , AŞIK İbrahim
Published: August 2024

Bacground
Purpose: Hip osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative pro-cess where continued cartilage breakdown results from mechanical overload, causing secondary bony and syno-vial changes. There is currently no cure for OA, but there are many treatments and approaches to managing the long- term symptoms of this disease. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of intraarticular microfragmented adipose tissue (MAT) injection in the patients with chronic pain due to early-stage hip OA.
Methods: The medical records of 11 patients with a diagnosis of hip OA that did not respond to conservative treatment and who underwent MAT injection were reviewed retrospectively. Visual analog scale (VAS) scores and WOMAC scores, and drug use were recorded before and after the procedure 1 and 3 months of follow-up. Then all data were statistically analyzed.
Results:The VAS and WOMAC scores before the procedure were 7±1 and 46.63±4.48. The mean VAS score at 1 and 3 months after the procedure was 3.91± 2.70 and 3.55±2.94, respectively. The mean WOMAC score at 1 and 3 months after the procedure was 26.36±12.20 and 25.99±12.61, respectively. It was determined that 54.2% (n=6) of the patients were determined not to use any analgesic drugs at the third month of follow-up and 18.2 (n=2) had a decrease in drug use compared to the pre-procedure. No serious complication was found in any patient.
Conclusions:Our study shows that MAT is an effective treatment in the short to medium term in patients with early-stage hip OA. Randomized controlled trials with a longer follow-up and more patients are needed regarding MAT injection in chronic pain due to hip OA.
Polypharmacy among Adults Receiving Outpatient Care at a General Hospital in a Municipality, Northern Uganda
Authors: Oyoo Nixson , Musoke David , Nantale Ritah , Lapat Jolly Joe , Opee Jimmyy , Ebbs Daniel S. , Bongomin Felix
Published: August 2024

Background
Polypharmacy is a major safety concern. It’s a risk factor for adverse health outcomes, higher use of medical services and additional costs. Despite being a well-recognized problem, there is limited data regarding the prevalence and factors associated with polypharmacy among outpatients in Northern Uganda. We assessed the prevalence and factors associated with polypharmacy among adults receiving outpatient care at Kitgum General Hospital, Uganda.
Methods
This was a facility-based cross-sectional study; adults receiving outpatient care at Kitgum General Hospital between October and December 2023 were recruited. Polypharmacy was defined as the concurrent use of five or more medicines. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain information about the number of medicines a person takes concurrently and the participant’s demographic characteristics. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the study sample. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the factors associated with polypharmacy.
Results
A total of 422 participants, with a mean age of 43.0 ± 18.3 years were enrolled. More than a third of the participants (35.3%, n = 149) had chronic medical conditions. Overall, 43.4% (n = 183) of participants had polypharmacy. Among the participants who had polypharmacy, the majority were taking antibiotics (91.8%, n = 168) and analgesics (77.6%, n = 142). More than a third (34.4%, n = 145) of the participants reported use of over-the-counter drugs. Having a chronic illness (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR): 5.93, 95% CI: 3.10-11.34, p < 0.001), and use of over-the-counter drugs (AOR: 16.7; 95% CI: 8.87–31.42, p = 0.009) were associated with higher odds of polypharmacy. Herbal medicine use was associated with 64% lower odds of polypharmacy (AOR: 0.36; 95% CI: 0.17–0.77, p < 0.001).
Conclusion
The prevalence of polypharmacy among adult outpatients is high. Chronic illness, use of over-the-counter drugs and intake of herbal medicines have significant impacts on polypharmacy among adult outpatients. Priority should be put in place to mitigate polypharmacy among outpatients in Uganda.
Towards Sustainability in Dry land Oases: Water Challenges and Quality
Authors: Khettouch Athmane , Hssaisoune Mohammed , Brahim Yassine Ait , Ez-zaouy Yassine , Hermans Thomas , Bouchaou Lhoussaine
Published: August 2024

Drâa river basin (DRB) is a large arid area encompassing most important oases in the south of Morocco. Climate change, population growth and recently intensive agriculture activity have led to the overexploitation of limited groundwater resources aggravating the problem of water salinization. Therefore, this study aims to assess groundwater quality in the DRB using hydrochemical characteristics from various sources. The complex set of water quality information is simplified into two indicators namely the Water Quality Index (WQI) and Heavy Metal Pollution Index (HPI). Additionally, the suitability of groundwater for irrigation purposes are assessed using sodium absorption ratio (SAR), Residual Sodium Carbonate (RSC) and the permeability index (PI). The results show that the degradation of water quality is related to the high content of sodium and chloride which emerge as the predominant ions along the flow path. Fresher water (Ca-Mg-HCO3 water type, low WQI and SAR scores), able to sustain local drinking and irrigation needs, are observed in the Upper DRB, while reducing ions excess and adopting agriculture tolerable to salinity become more imperative in downstream oases. The prevalence of hard, igneous and calcareous rocks imparts a general hardness character at a large scale and bicarbonates exceed the permissible limit in 82.30% of samples. However, sodium hazard was not associated with CaCO3 and MgCO3 precipitation (low PI and RSC). In some areas, nitrate contents imply anthropogenic contamination from local source of pollution, whereas the concentrations of heavy metals are more associated with the geological setting than anthropogenic activities.
Translocation coefficients of heavy metals in the soil-rice system and their environmental implication
Authors: Wang Cheng , Shi Minqi , Wang Jianhua , Zhong Cong , Zhao Yanping
Published: August 2024

Background, Aims and Methods
Investigating and quantifying the transfer of heavy metals from soil to rice plants under different environmental conditions is crucial. This study explores the characteristics of heavy metals transfer within soil-rice system and the environmental implications of translocation coefficients (TCs) through analysis of data from major rice-growing regions in Asia.
Results
The translocation patterns of different heavy metals demonstrate variability, varying across geographical areas. For instance, As and Cd show high transfer propensity from soil to roots (average TCs: 3.71 for As and 3.63 for Cd), but their subsequent retranslocation to straw is substantially constrained, with average TCstraw/root and TCgrain/straw values dramatically decreasing (0.18 for As and ≤ 0.45 for Cd). Rice plants effectively regulate the transport Cu and Zn from roots to aerial tissues: TC of Cu decreases from 0.87 (TCroot/soil) to 0.27 (TCstraw/root), then increased to 0.78 (TCgrain/straw); for Zn, TCroot/soil, TCstraw/root and TCgrain/straw are 0.74, 0.65 and 0.63, respectively. Cluster analysis reveals distinct translocation patterns, with elements like Pb in the Yangtze River Delta showing a “parabola” transfer pattern, characterized by anomalously high TCstraw/root, along with Cr, Ni and Hg.
Conclusion
The sketched pattern generated by TCs exhibits available implication for environment condition. The abnormal translocation patterns observed for Pb, Cr, Ni and Hg suggest that these elements in rice aerial tissues may originate from atmospheric sources, influenced possibly by historical Pb-containing petrol use or non-ferrous mining activities.
Polymethylmethacrylate-augmented Cannulated Pedicle Screw Fixation for thoracolumbar burst fractures with Osteoporosis
Authors: Xiao Jun , Yu Dandan , Yang Lin , Zhang Jingjing , Ma Qiong , Liu Yaoyao
Published: August 2024

Background
Thoracolumbar burst fracture (TLBF) with osteoporosis has higher requirement for the stability of pedicle screw internal fixation system. However, few studies have involved the clinical outcome of cannulated pedicle screw to augment fixation with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) under this condition, especially when spine-pelvic parameters are included. This study aims to investigate the mid-term efficacy of bone cement-injectable cannulated pedicle screw (CICPS) in TLBF with osteoporosis.
Methods
Fifty-eight patients with TLBF (T < -2.5) were underwent spinal fixation by CICPS from 2017 to 2012. The operation time, blood loss, and hospitalization time were recorded. Pain and functional recovery were evaluated by Visual Analog Scale VAS) and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), respectively. X-ray films were taken to evaluate the loss of vertebral height, kyphosis angle, the distance between the screw tip and the superior endplate (D-s) and the anterior edge (D-a) of the vertebral body, pelvic incidence (PI), pelvic tilt (PT), lumbar lordosis (LL) and Sagittal vertical axis (SVA). Surgical related complications were also recorded.
Results
The average follow-up time was 22.1 ± 8.7 months (range, 12–38 months). VAS and ODI scores indicated significant improvements in postoperative pain and activity function (P < 0.05). The height of the fractured vertebrae decreased 3 months after surgery, especially in the anterior central part of the vertebrae (P < 0.05), and the kyphotic angle increased compared to the postoperative level (P < 0.05). Compared with 3 months after surgery, the above phenomenon still existed at the last follow-up, but the difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Despite the loss of reduction of the kyphotic angle, sagittal balance of the spine (SVA) was significantly improved at the last follow-up compared to pre-operation (P < 0.05). There were no obvious signs of CICPS loosening.
Conclusions
Although there was a significant loss of reduction at 3 months after operation, from the medium and long-term clinical efficacy, CICPS is still a feasible surgical method for TLBF patients with osteoporosis.
A case-control study on the association of serum essential elements and malignant tendency of thyroid nodules
Authors: Tian Meng , Liang Guangxi , Zhang Honglong , Jiang Wangyan , Yan Jun , Chen Fei , Mou Shuli , Zhang Yuetian , Zuo Haoyuan , ni banggao
Published: August 2024

Thyroid nodules are a common disease in the world, but the association with serum essential elements is not clear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between serum essential elements and thyroid nodules and their malignant tendency, and to provide effective reference for the prevention and treatment of thyroid diseases. A total of 509 patients with malignant thyroid nodules (MTNs) and 454 patients with benign thyroid nodules (BTNs) were included in our study. Basic information was collected through questionnaires and physical examination, serum essential elements was detected by automatic biochemical analyzer, and thyroid function indexes were detected by automatic particle chemiluminescence analyzer. The results showed that the levels of chlorine (CL), magnesium (Mg) and sodium (Na) in the MTNs were lower than those in the BTNs, but the level of phosphorus (P) is reversed. Logistic regression analysis showed that low serum CL, Mg and Na concentrations emerged as consistent risk factors for thyroid nodules malignant tendency in the general population, whereas low P concentrations emerged as consistent protective factor. Our study suggests that the imbalance of certain essential elements (CL, Mg, Na, P) may be related to the malignant tendency of thyroid nodules. Further, partial correlation analysis and multiple linear regression analysis showed that the level of Na was positively correlated with free triiodothyronine (FT3) in female. Therefore, gender is an important factor in studying the association between serum essential elements and the malignant tendency of thyroid nodules, female Na may disturb the balance of thyroid function to some extent.
Evaluation of Water Supply Risks and Emergency Water Volume in Coastal Cities Based on Dynamic Simulation
Authors: Wei Shuai , Lin Kairong , Li Tongfang
Published: August 2024

Water supply security is the basis for high-quality urban development. Amid escalating extreme climate events, the upstream intrusion of saltwater in the Pearl River Estuary poses significant challenges to the water supply security of cities. This study establishes a city water supply system model based on the system dynamics method, then evaluates the urban water supply risks in Zhongshan City from 2016 to 2023 using the supply-demand gap and water stress index as risk assessment indicators. Additionally, it simulates the dynamic water supply risks under five development scenarios (conventional, economic, population, conservation, and comprehensive) and 17 saltwater intrusion scenarios from 2024 to 2035. Based on the simulation results, the study then proposes the emergency water reserve requirements for 2030 and 2035 under emergency response levels of 10, 20, 30, 45, and 60 days. The results indicate that Zhongshan's water demand has increased from 2016 to 2023, with water supply capacity meeting demand but significantly impacted by saltwater intrusion. The highest water supply risk and water stress index (peaking at 0.45 in 2021) occur when the saltwater front reaches the Quanlu, Renyi, and Dafeng intake points simultaneously or individually. Among the five development scenarios, water demand peaks in 2035, with the highest demand under the economic development scenario and the lowest under the water-saving scenario. The comprehensive development scenario, which balances economic growth and resource conservation, achieves a 2035 water demand of 266.90×104 m³/d, a 5.19% reduction compared to the conventional scenario, thus making it more acceptable to policymakers. Under the 17 saltwater intrusion scenarios, the water-saving scenario exhibits the lowest water stress index (0-6.74) and thus the lowest water supply risk, followed by the comprehensive scenario (0-7.11) and the economic scenario with the highest water stress index (0-7.84) and risk. The current water reserves can usually meet demand under scenarios where the saltwater front only reaches below Quanlu or Dafeng, but additional emergency reserves will be necessary for higher intrusion levels to meet various emergency duration requirements. When the saltwater front reaches Yinggezui and a 60-day emergency level is considered, the water-saving scenario has the smallest water deficit, while the economic scenario has the largest, with deficits of 7,938×104 m³ and 8,928×104 m³ in 2030 and 10,164×104 m³ and 12,354×104 m³ in 2035, respectively. These findings offer valuable insights for coastal city policymakers in selecting urban development paths and enhancing emergency water reserve capabilities.
Effect of Danhong Injection on Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Rivaroxaban in Rats
Authors: Yin Weihong , Li Jiao , Han Zhaoyang , Wang Siwen , Wu Fan , Yu Chao , Yan Xueying , Cui Mingyu
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives Rivaroxaban is often used in combination with DHI to treat thromboembolic disease. Whether the combination causing HDIs is still unknown. The purpose of this study was to evaluate effects of DHI on pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of rivaroxaban in rats and effects on CYP3A2. Methods Plasma concentration of rivaroxaban with or without DHI was determined by HPLC. Pharmacokinetics parameters were calculated. Effect of DHI on pharmacodynamics of rivaroxaban was investigated by APTT, PT, TT, FIB, INR, length of tail thrombosis, vWF, t-PA, PAI-1, IL-1β, TNF-α and histopathological sections. Effect of DHI on CYP3A2 in rats was investigated by probe drug method. Results Cmax and AUC of rivaroxaban increased significantly in combination group (P < 0.05). APTT, PT, INR and TT increased (P < 0.05), length of tail thrombosis, FIB, vWF, PAI-1, IL-1β and TNF-α of combination group decreased significantly (P < 0.05) compared with rivaroxaban or DHI alone. Histopathologic section of tail thrombus had significant improvement. Cmax and AUC of dapsone increased (P < 0.05) in DHI group. Conclusion In summary, rivaroxaban combined with DHI could enhance rivaroxaban’s efficacy. Meanwhile, DHI could affect pharmacokinetics of rivaroxaban by inhibiting CYP3A2. The dosage of rivaroxaban should be adjusted in clinical.
Assessment of Satellite Availability Window for Internet of Things Applications Using Doppler Detection in Routing Algorithms
Authors: Elbehiry Eman Adel , Fares Ahmed , Elhalawany Basem M. , Tag.ElDien Heba A.
Published: August 2024

This research proposes a novel framework that uses Doppler measurements from communication signals to forecast the satellite visibility window for two ground stations. Using Dijkstra's algorithm for shortest-path routing, the ground stations may determine the best communication path among the visible satellites by utilizing these observations. The suggested technology significantly increases orbit estimation, which uses Ant Colony Optimization to estimate orbital parameters through Doppler data. The system improves communication dependability through redundancy by creating connections between ground stations and all observable satellites, guaranteeing continuing communications even if individual satellite connections are lost. Furthermore, the visibility windows and computed Doppler measurements have useful applications in real-time settings like Internet of Things (IoT) networks. Consequently, we derive the Doppler measurement probability function and simplify it to a root mean square error (RMSE) minimization problem. The outcomes demonstrate an increase in orbital parameter estimate accuracy when compared to cutting-edge optimization strategies. Furthermore, a reliable routing system is established connecting the two ground stations.
First record of the terrestrial isopod Porcellionides pruinosus as an ant guest along foraging trails and inside Messor ebeninus nests in the Negev Desert
Authors: Oxman Karmi , Ku Kamila M.D. , O’Donnell Sean
Published: August 2024

We report field observations of the cosmopolitan terrestrial isopod species Porcellionides pruinosus both inside multiple nests and following foraging trails of the seed harvester ant Messor ebeninus in the spring of 2022 and 2023. To our knowledge, this is the first observation of P. pruinosus in association with any ant species. Isopods inside the nest either travelled to deeper tunnels or joined foraging trails. The density of isopods along foraging trails was as high as sixty individuals along one 22meter foraging trail. Results from twelve preliminary homing assays revealed that the distance isopods were displaced did not affect whether they returned to the trail, but the farther away they were displaced the longer it took them to return to the trail. Two of the four isopods introduced into a foraging trail of a new nest continued walking with the foreign trail. Isopods were met with minimal aggression from the ants along the trail, and there were no instances of nest guarding observed. The presence of P. pruinosus inside M. ebeninus. nests could be driven by a need for thermal refuge and access to subterranean granaries. The known ability of isopods to cue into ant pheromones is a plausible mechanism for allowing isopods to follow foraging trails. The benefit of trail following behavior needs further investigation. We hypothesize a benefit to walking on a path clear of obstacles, and efficient detection of patchy desert food sources.
Comparison of spinal cord regeneration capacity in zebrafish and medaka
Authors: Aoki Shun , Hori Masato , Zhang Hanjie , Tsujioka Hiroshi , Yamashita Toshihide
Published: August 2024

In mammals, spinal cord injury often results in permanent impairment of motor function owing to ineffective tissue regeneration. Unlike mammals, zebrafish have the remarkable ability to regenerate many tissues, including the spinal cord. Cross-species comparison is an attractive approach for revealing regeneration-specific mechanisms, but the large evolutionary distance between species sometimes hinders direct comparison. Recent studies have revealed that another model fish species, medaka, has a low regenerative ability in some tissues, making comparisons with them advantageous to revealing regeneration-specific mechanisms. However, their spinal cord regenerative ability has not been compared to other models. In this study, we functionally and histologically compared the spinal cord regeneration abilities of zebrafish and medaka. Swimming speed recovery was significantly lower in medaka than in zebrafish. Bridging of glia and neural tissue were thinner in medaka than in zebrafish. Axonal extension across the injured site was observed in zebrafish but not in medaka. Comparison of their gene expression profiles revealed genes involved in “Regeneration” were upregulated in zebrafish, whereas genes related to “Synaptic signaling” were downregulated in medaka. These results suggest that the ability to regenerate the spinal cord is lower in medaka than in zebrafish, making medaka an attractive model for revealing the mechanisms of spinal cord regeneration.
Chemi-resistive sensor for ammonia using inkjet printing of G/PEDOT:PSS composite at room temperature
Authors: Chhapia Pratik , Patel Harshad
Published: August 2024

This study reveals the fabrication of a gas sensor with a PEDOT:PSS/Graphene ink composite as an active layer on glossy paper. The glossy paper was chosen as the substrate material due to its low cost and easy availability. PEDOT:PSS/Graphene ink was synthesized by simple mixing of PEDOT:PSS and Graphene solution in the presences of distilled water, ethanol, glycerol, and diethylene glycol and was then sonicated and stirred at room temperatures, and characterized by FTIR, UV, XRD, AFM, and SEM. The sensitivities of the gas sensors concerning acetonitrile, propanol, butanol, benzene, methanol, and ammonia analytes were investigated by measuring the change in resistance using conventional multi-meter at room temperature. The results exhibited that the composite’s response to ammonia change is stable and can well measure concentration. The results showed that the sensors show promising responses with ± 1% reading error with a high response percentage.
Hybrid convolutional hyperspectral image classification based on spatial and spectral channel reconstruction
Authors: zheng chao , zhao xiaofeng , ma junyi , zhang wenwen , zhang hui
Published: August 2024

Hyperspectral images contain rich spatial and spectral information, which makes more and more researchers join the team of analyzing and studying them. Convolutional neural networks have been widely used in hyperspectral image classification, however, due to the high dimensionality and band correlation of the hyperspectral image data, the hyperspectral data contains a lot of redundant information, which not only adds to the arithmetic burden, but also affects the extraction of the global and local spectral and spatial features in the process of hyperspectral image classification. We design a hybrid convolutional model based on spatial and spectral channel reconstruction, which utilizes hybrid convolution to extract spatial and spectral features in hyperspectral images, and separates and reconstructs the spatial and spectral channels to suppress redundant features and reduce the computational load of the model, and introduces a global attention mechanism to enhance the global receptive field and learn the global spectral and spatial features. We conduct experiments on three widely used public datasets, IndianPines, PaviaU, and Houston 2013, and the overall accuracies reach 98.66%, 99.49%, and 99.07%, respectively, which validate the effectiveness of the model.
Results from the VIOLIN Study: Verbal violence against migrants in German public institutions, discrimination and their association with mental health – an online cross-sectional study
Authors: Jäschke Meret , Borho Andrea , Morawa Eva , Hauck Felicitas , Gibu Lucia Romero , Atal Mojib , Rohleder Nicolas , Jansen Silke , Bendel Petra , Erim Yesim
Published: August 2024

Theoretical background: Discrimination is a psychological stressor for migrants and increases the likelihood of mental illnesses. This cross-sectional online survey examined the frequency of experiences of verbal violence in institutions (VVI) and discrimination among voluntary migrants and refugees (N = 525) in Germany, as well as their association with mental health.
Methods: The measurement instruments included the Everyday Discrimination Scale (EDS), the Patient Health Questionnaire 2 (PHQ-2), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale 2 (GAD-2), and the self-developed 24-item VVI questionnaire. Voluntary migrants were compared to refugees.
Results: The data of 137 refugees and 388 migrants in Germany were evaluated. Since living in Germany, migrants experienced VVI most frequently in public transport (53%), immigration offices (53%), doctors' offices (48%), hospitals (41%), and city council/district offices (38%). A comparison of the sum score of the questionnaire on VVI among voluntary migrants shows that females experienced VVI significantly more often than males (p = 0.018). There were no significant differences between refugees and voluntary migrants (p = 0.50), nor gender differences among refugees (p = 0.69) in their experiences of VVI. Experiences of discrimination were reported on a frequency of less than a yearly basis. Refugees showed significantly more depressive symptoms than voluntary migrants (p < 0.001), but the generalized anxiety symptoms were comparable in both groups (p = 0.08). In multiple regression analyses, being a refugee, low life satisfaction, frequent experiences of VVI and discrimination were significantly associated with increased symptoms of depression. Significant predictors for elevated symptoms of generalized anxiety were low life satisfaction, experiences of VVI and discrimination, as well as a low sense of belonging to the country of origin.
Conclusion: The results show the need for additional action to reduce VVI against migrants, especially in the identified public institutions.
Global Warming Will Drive Spatial Expansion of Prunus mira Koehn in Alpine Areas，Southeast Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
Authors: Tang Guoyong , GU Jinkai , HE Qiang , LI Qiangwan , XIANG Shengjian , LI Wanchi , JIN Aohang , LI Qinglin , WANG Shunbin
Published: August 2024

Global climate change exerts great effort for plants distributions. However the response of Prunus mira Koehn, one of the most important species for ecological protection in the southeast of Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, to climate change remains unclear. To explore the ecological factors on the distribution of Prunus mira Koehn in context of global climate change, the MaxENT model is used to predict the suitable habitats for Prunus mira Koehn. Our study indicated that the distribution of Prunus mira Koehn is primarily influenced by temperature rather than precipitation, warming can facilitate the growth of Prunus mira Koehn. When the temperature seasonality (bio4) ranges from 134 to 576 and the mean temperature of coldest quarter (bio11) ranges from − 2.6°C to 2.7°C, it is most conducive to the growth of Prunus mira Koehn. Among the four climate scenarios, the optimal habitat for Prunus mira Koehn is predominantly concentrated in river valley areas and is expected to expand into higher altitude regions, particularly in the north and southeast. SSP245 and SSP370 climate pathways are conducive to the growth and spatial expansion of Prunus mira Koehn. Our findings highlight the significant impact of temperature not precipitation on the distribution of Prunus mira Koehn, and this insight is crucial for the stability and conservation of this ecologically significant plant species.
Study Protocol: A mixed method and multimethod study of implementation and impact of Ayushman Bharat- Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) scheme in Assam State
Authors: Verma Vivek , Nath Dilip Chandra , Chetri Robina , Sarma Pallavika , Khanam Masuma , Bhattacharyya Bibhangshu , Prasad Pratibha , Yadav Jeetendra , Savatangi Shivanand B , Mazumder Mousumi Nath , Yadav Rohit , John Denny
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Ayushman Bharat- Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), is an Indian Government initiated health insurance scheme, with the purpose to improve access and availability of secondary and tertiary inpatient care and reduce additional financial burden of out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPE) due to medical expenses from economical weaker sections of Indian population. AB-PMJAY was launched in the year 2018 and in the same year was implemented in Assam state. To obtain the evidence of impact and implementation of of AB-PMJAY in terms of healthcare services availability, accessibility, and affordability after the first 5 years of the scheme’s operations in Assam state.
Methods and analysis: The study will follow a mixed methods approach using triangulation mixed methods design along with a multimethod approach. Primary data (qualitative and quantitative surveys) and secondary data (National Sample Survey (NSS) previous rounds – 60th (2004), 71st (2014) and 75th (2017) will be considered. 75th round of NSS of Assam will be considered as the baseline for the present study. The present protocol describes the methodological aspects adopted for evaluation of effectiveness and implementation strategies of AB-PMJAY in five districts viz. Kamrup Metropolitan, Sonitpur, Cachar, Sivasagar, and Kokrajhar of Assam. Quantitative data will be evaluated through descriptive statistical measures under quasi-experimental design and quantitative aspect will be explored through thematic analysis. The study protocol presented is the first attempt to collectively assess the early impacts and implementation procedures of the biggest government funded health insurance programme in Assam State.
Effect of Bond Coating Surface Morphology on the TBC System Lifetime
Authors: Hervier S. , Desagulier M-M. , Monceau D.
Published: August 2024

A study on the effect of bond boating (BC) surface modifications prior ceramic deposition is presented. Grit blasting and polishing were used to modify the BC surface finish. thermal barrier coatings (TBC) systems were made of a commercial yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) deposited by electron beam physical vapor deposition on a β−(Ni,Pt)Al coated Ni-based single crystal superalloy. Surface roughness measurements and scanning electron microscopy observations, before and after thermal cycling at 1100°C, were performed to investigate the influence of the initial surface treatment on the YSZ/BC interface morphology and top coat spallation resistance. Surface states enhancing TBC spallation resistance have been found. In particular, it is shown that rumpling can be avoided even in the presence of phase transformations in the BC, by grinding samples with P600 SiC paper or by applying an “heavy” grit blasting leading to a thinner BC.
Towards automated phenotype definition extraction using large language models
Authors: Tekumalla Ramya , Banda Juan M.
Published: August 2024

Electronic phenotyping involves a detailed analysis of both structured and unstructured data, employing rule-based methods, machine learning, natural language processing, and hybrid approaches. Currently, the development of accurate phenotype definitions demands extensive literature reviews and clinical experts, rendering the process time-consuming and inherently unscalable. Large Language Models offer a promising avenue for automating phenotype definition extraction but come with significant drawbacks, including reliability issues, the tendency to generate non-factual data ('hallucinations'), misleading results, and potential harm. To address these challenges, our study embarked on two key objectives: (1) defining a standard evaluation set to ensure Large Language Models outputs are both useful and reliable, and (2) evaluating various prompting approaches to extract phenotype definitions from Large Language Models, assessing them with our established evaluation task. Our findings reveal promising results that still require human evaluation and validation for this task. However, enhanced phenotype extraction is possible, reducing the amount of time spent in literature review and evaluation.
Multi-hole probe: A Review and a New Take to Improve Accuracy
Authors: Jonsson Isak , Legrady Benjamin
Published: August 2024

This study reviews and addresses long-standing challenges associated with the multi-hole probe (MHP) technique by introducing a novel configuration. The key innovation involves geometric modifications to the centre port, enabling direct measurements of both total and static pressures. This new configuration has been experimentally validated in a jet calibrator and in bluff body wake in a wind tunnel, demonstrating a two-order-of-magnitude improvement in total pressure reading accuracy compared to a traditional MHP. The in-house uncertainty analysis aligns with the findings from existing literature, confirming the enhanced precision of the new MHP design. The innovative MHP configuration maintains the simplicity of traditional probes and the comparability with existing infrastructure and hence replace existing MHP without added complexity. The performance advancement holds substantial potential for applications requiring high precision and reliability by significantly reducing measurement uncertainty and improving accuracy.
Surface modification of montmorillonite - MMT nanofiller: How it affects both the rigid amorphous fraction (RAF) and the physical properties of polyamide 66
Authors: Ismail Mohamed A. , Yousef Ebtisam A. , Nasr G. M.
Published: August 2024

Studying the impact of type (organo-modified montmorillonite - MMT) into polyamide 66 (PA66) on molecular motion of polymers within the space between polymer and nanoparticle is important to understand the improved properties of nanocomposites. The thermal, mechanical and electrical properties have been investigated using Dynamical Mechanical Thermal Analysis (DMTA), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), and Dielectric Relaxation Spectroscopy (DRS) techniques. DMTA technique is valuable and most sensitive thermal analysis methods to determine the glass transition temperature, Tg. DMTA in terms of loss modulus, G", storage modulus, G' and dissipation factor, tan δ were characterized for all samples, and show their unique dependence on temperature and MMT modified nanofiller types. The reinforcing effect of PA66 matrix by MMT loading justified by the increase in G' by 83% with C30B MMT nanofiller and lowering the Tg by 5.0 oC. The rigid amorphous fraction (RAF) of polyamide 66 based nanocomposites as a function of filler type was analyzed from heat capacity data obtained from StepScan TM differential scanning calorimetry (SSDSC). For polyamide 66 based nanocomposites, two different parts of RAF were detected; one is due to the interaction between inorganic nanofiller and polymer matrix and the other is due to the incorporation between crystallites and amorphous polymer. The fraction of immobilized interphase, RAF, caused by the filler increased especially in case of Cloisite30B nanocomposites and is about 32% of the polymer fraction. The disruption of crystallinity in the polymer is explained by the presence of RAF surrounding the nanofiller. Independent on the filler content crystallinity proceeds until growth is limited by mobility. However, the nonisothermal crystallization of PA66 in the nanocomposites is obstructed due to nanofiller. Using DRS technique, the electric and dielectric behavior of these tested samples was measured through the frequency range 0.03 Hz- 107 Hz. The conduction mechanism inside all tested samples was confirmed to follow the correlated barrier hopping (CBH) mechanism.
Sub-structural damage identification through Craig-Bampton sub-structuring and Gray Wolf Optimizer (GWO)
Authors: Darijani Vahid , Banan Mohammad Reza , Banan Mahmoud Reza
Published: August 2024

In this study, a method is proposed for damage identification of 2D moment resisting frames by utilizing Craig-Bampton sub-structuring and GWO. Initially, an index based on the Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) of the first mode shape variation is employed to identify the potentially damaged substructures. Subsequently, the global structure is partitioned into damaged and undamaged substructures, making modal analysis of each substructure more computationally efficient, easier, and less time-consuming. Additionally, an iterative GWO procedure is conducted at a lower computational cost due to the reduction in the size of the decision variable vector, which corresponds to the number of elements in the damaged substructures. Finally, the extent of the damaged elements located in the suspected substructures from the previous stage is estimated based on the GWO results.
Dispensable role of mitf in melanogenesis of Xenopus tropicalis oocytes
Authors: Yi Hongyang , Hang Jing , Shen Jiayin , Yang Sumei , Liu Han , Deng Jiayu , Han Shuhong , Feng Xiaohui , Cheng Wenjie , Liang Weizheng , Chen Yonglong , Lu Hongzhou , Ran Rensen
Published: August 2024

Melanin pigmentation in oocytes is a critical feature for both the aesthetic and developmental aspects of oocytes, influencing their polarity and overall development. Despite substantial knowledge of melanogenesis in melanocytes and retinal pigment epithelium cells, the molecular mechanisms underlying oocyte melanogenesis remain largely unknown. Here, we compare the oocytes of wild-type, tyr-/-, and mitf-/- Xenopus tropicalis and found that mitf-/- oocytes exhibit normal melanin deposition at the animal pole, whereas tyr-/- oocytes show no melanin deposition at this site. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed that melanogenesis in mitf-/- oocytes proceeds normally, similar to wild-type oocytes. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that mitf-/- oocytes regulate the expression of melanogenesis-related genes to complete melanogenesis. Additionally, in Xenopus tropicalis oocytes, the expression of the MiT subfamily factor tfe3 is relatively high, while tfeb, mitf, and tfec levels are extremely low. The expression pattern of tfe3 is similar to that of tyr and other melanogenesis-related genes. Thus, melanogenesis in Xenopus tropicalis oocytes is dependent on Tyr rather than Mitf, possibly due to the regulation of tyr, dct, and tyrp1 by other MiT subfamily factors such as tfe3. Furthermore, transcriptomic data revealed that changes in the expression of genes related to mitochondrial cloud formation represent the most significant molecular changes during oocyte development. Overall, these findings suggest that further elucidation of Tyr-dependent, Mitf-independent mechanisms of melanin deposition at the animal pole will enhance our understanding of melanogenesis and Oogenesis.
3D numerical study of geothermal reservoir performance of homogeneous sectors of Mesozoic sandstone formations in the North German Basin developed by smart multi-well systems
Authors: Mantei Niklas , Rioseco Ernesto Meneses , Moeck Inga Sigrun
Published: August 2024

In the context of the heat transition in Germany, the decarbonization of the heating and cooling industry via renewable energy sources requires the usage of comprehensive strategies and novel engineering solutions. With regard to district heating in urban areas, middle-deep geothermal resources offer a great potential which has not been fully utilized yet due to the required minimum temperature on district heating networks. However, the controlling factors on the optimal and sustainable development of those middle-deep geothermal resources are not fully elucidated yet. Within the ArtemIS project, we systematically analyze the impact of reservoir quality and operational controlling factors on the performance of homogeneous sectors of Mesozoic sandstone reservoirs in the North German Basin (NGB) targeted by smart multi-well arrangements. For the first time, we compare in a comprehensive manner previous analytical results with our numerical findings to quantify the influence of different controlling factors on the thermal breakthrough occurrence time, the maximum cooling rate after the occurrence of the thermal breakthrough and the end production temperature. Moreover, we especially focus and illustrate the controls on the behavior of the production temperature after the thermal breakthrough has occurred and conduct a parametric analysis with regard to the thermal utilization time or life span of a geothermal facility. Based on our numerical results, we set up a ranking scheme showing the influence of varying controlling parameters on the considered performance parameters. Our comprehensive numerical study therefore illustrates in detail the complex thermo-hydraulic interaction of geothermal doublet arrays, the controls on the defined thermal lifetime as well as the optimization possibilities of middle-deep geothermal resources. Ultimately, numerical experiments demonstrate that the heat demand of towns and villages in the NGB can be met to a large extent by middle-deep geothermal energy in an optimized sustainable way.
Unveiling miRNA Biomarkers for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy through Integrated Bioinformatics and Machine Learning Analysis
Authors: Yamasan Bilge Eren , Korkmaz Selçuk
Published: August 2024

This study explores microRNAs (miRNAs) as biomarkers for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), an inherited cardiac disease with clinical diversity and sudden death risk. Using bioinformatics and machine learning (ML), Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets were analyzed to identify miRNA signatures for early detection, risk assessment, and personalized treatment of HCM. Differential expression analysis of three GEO datasets identified 155 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 5 differentially expressed miRNAs (DE-miRNAs). Functional annotation and pathway analysis revealed their roles in inflammatory responses, extracellular matrix organization, and cellular stress responses. Notably, upregulated (COL21A1, PROM1) and downregulated (FOS, BTG2, ELL2, PDK4, SERPINE1, SRGN, TIPARP) genes were detected as potential DE-miRNA targets. Validation highlighted importance of ELL2 and PDK4 in HCM pathology. Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Random Forest (RF) models demonstrated high predictive accuracy for HCM using DE-miRNAs, suggesting new paths for early diagnosis and personalized therapy.
An Optimized RNA Extraction Method from Micro-Quantities of Guinea Pig Cartilage and Synovium for Osteoarthritis Research
Authors: Bhardwaj Nidhi , Rana Diksha , Kaur Jyotdeep
Published: August 2024

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is the primary cause of joint impairment, particularly in the knee. The prevalence of OA has significantly increased, with knee OA being a major contributor whose pathogenesis remains unknown. Articular cartilage and synovium play critical roles in OA, but extracting high-quality RNA from these tissues is challenging due to high extracellular matrix content and low cellularity. This study aimed to identify the most suitable RNA isolation method for obtaining high-quality RNA from micro-quantities of guinea pig cartilage and synovium tissues, a relevant model for idiopathic OA.
Methods and Results: We compared the traditional Trizol® method with modifications against spin-column-based methods (TRIspin -Trizol®/ RNeasy™, RNeasy™ kit, RNAqueous™ kit, Quick-RNA™ Miniprep Plus Kit) and an optimized RNA isolation protocol was developed to enhance RNA yield and purity. The procedure involved meticulous sample collection, specialized tissue processing, and measures to minimize RNA degradation. RNA quality was assessed using spectrophotometry and RT-qPCR. The results demonstrated that among the tested methods, the Quick-RNA™ Miniprep Plus Kit with proteinase K treatment provided the highest quality RNA from limited cartilage and synovium samples.
Conclusions: Preparation, storage, homogenization, and the method of RNA isolation are critical for obtaining high-purity RNA from guinea pig cartilage and synovium tissues. Our developed protocol significantly enhances RNA quality and purity, making it particularly effective for RT-qPCR and gene expression studies in osteoarthritis research using small animal models like Dunkin-Hartley guinea pigs. Further refinements can potentially enhance RNA yield and purity but this protocol facilitates more accurate molecular analyses, contributing to a better understanding of OA pathogenesis and the development of therapeutic strategies.
In situ soil environment-based evaluation on degradation of biodegradable plastics
Authors: Ok Yong Sik , Cho Yoora , Jang Min , Hwang Geonwook , Park Jeyoung , Oh Dongyeop , Choi Yujin , Hwang Sung Yeon
Published: August 2024

The biodegradability of plastic is a critical factor in environmental sustainability. However, plastic degradation has been focused on closed systems via physical changes and CO2 generation. We innovated a methodology on open system degradation in soil environments to reveal the authentic process of plastic degradation in nature. Polybutylene succinate (PBS), polybutylene adipate-co-terephthalate (PBAT), poly3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate (PHVB), and polylactic acid (PLA) were buried in a soil equipped with the lysimeter, the field applicable instrument that preserves and measures the in-situ soil conditions. Over two years, we tracked the soil electrical conductivity (EC), temperature, water content, and the plastic degradation products in the leachate−the monomers. The seasonal change in soil EC proved the plastic degradation, due to the decomposed plastic particles increasing the electrolyte concentration. The quantity of monomers increased over time, spiking during the summer months. A correlation was observed between the soil EC and monomer concentration. Despite the degradation-derived soil properties fluctuating with seasonal changes, the resilience of soils was maintained. Through long-term field experiments, we identified the seasonal degradation conditions of the actual soil environment and proposed a methodology of degradability that allows plastic targeting without disturbing the degradation media. These insights provide crucial knowledge for the biodegradable plastics market.
Isolated brain stem death: case report with demonstration of preserved cerebral perfusion in 99-TC biscicinate brain death study.
Authors: Shadmani Ghazal , Jahromi Amin Haghighat
Published: August 2024

Background The brainstem anatomy is complex, and the diagnosis of brain death (BD) in patients with isolated catastrophic posterior fossa lesions may pose a diagnostic dilemma. This is because all brainstem reflexes (which are the basis of neurologic examination) are lost; however, from an anatomical standpoint, the mesopontine tegmental reticular formation (MPT-RF) can theoretically be intact in patients with brainstem death. Moreover, supratentorial perfusion and electrical activity may be present. The significance of preserved supratentorial perfusion in the context of isolated catastrophic brainstem damage is not clear. We report the outcomes of an adult patient with catastrophic basilar artery thrombosis with preserved cerebral perfusion on brain scintigraphy.Patient presentation: A 47-year-old woman presented in an obtunded state and was found to have distal basilar artery thrombosis. After mechanical thrombectomy, her condition deteriorated, and a head CT scan revealed brain stem edema. Subsequently, brain death was suspected, and a 99mTc bicisate brain blood flow study was performed, which revealed the complete absence of blood flow to the cerebellum despite intact circulation to the cerebral hemispheres. Accordingly, life support continued. The next day, the patient was declared clinically brain dead with no follow-up imaging.Conclusions The significance of preserved supratentorial brain perfusion in the context of isolated catastrophic posterior fossa lesions is unclear. In keeping with a few additional cases in the literature, preserved supratentorial perfusion in our patient quickly evolved. The complex brain stem anatomy warrants further ancillary tests for the confirmation of brain death in patients with isolated fatal posterior fossa lesions.