bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research Hotspots and Trends of Social Robot Interaction Design: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Wang Jianmin , Chen Yongkang , Jia Fusheng , You Fang
Published: September 2023

(1) Background: The social robot interaction design is critical in determining acceptance and user experience. However, few studies have systematically discussed the current focus and future research directions of social robot interaction design from a bibliometric perspective. Therefore, in order to identify the latest research progress and evolution trajectory of research hotspots in social robot interaction design over the last decade. (2) Methods: based on 2416 papers related to social robot interaction design collected in the Web of Science (WOS) database, a comprehensive review was conducted by using bibliometrics to draw a knowledge map using VOSviewer and CiteSpace in an integrated manner. (3) Conclusions: The current research hotspots of social robot interaction design mainly focus on #1the study of human-robot relationships in social robot, #2Research on the Emotional Design of Social Robot, #3research on social robot for children's psychotherapy, #4research on companion robot for elderly rehabilitation, and #5research on educational social robot. The reference co-citation identifies the classic literature that forms the basis of the current research, which provides theoretical guidance and methods for the current research. Finally, we discuss several future research directions and challenges in this field.
Flow Governed by Generalized Brinkman’s Equation through an Inclined Porous Channel
Authors: Roach Dale C. , Hamdan Mohammad H.
Published: September 2023

Unidirectional flow of a fluid with pressure-dependent viscosity through a porous structure is considered when the viscosity-pressure relationship is an exponential function of a pressure power function in order to investigate effects of the viscosity-pressure relation on the flow characteristics. The flow is governed by the generalized Brinkman’s equation with constant permeability, and a model flow domain of flow down an inclined porous channel is chosen for the sake of studying flow behaviour. Although the current work considers flow in a constant permeability porous structure, it does represent a first step in studying the more general, flow through a variable permeability porous channel. The arising governing equations are solved numerically using MATLAB and the flow is simulated to illustrate the effects of fluid properties as well as flow and medium parameters on the velocity profiles and shear stress.
Detection Ground Deformation characteristics of Reclamation Land with Time-Series InSAR in Tianjin Binhai New Area,china
Authors: Chen Yanan , Yan Fu li , Chen Jian , Fan Tao Xiang
Published: September 2023

In order to alleviate the conflict between populations and land-resource, Tianjin has adopted multi-phase reclamation projects to formed large-scale artificial reclamation land. However, the reclamation areas are susceptible to subsidence, which demonstrate a serious threat to infrastructure and people’s lives and property. The SBAS-InSAR was used to acquired surface deformation of Tianjin Binhai New Area from January 2017 year to December 2022 year, analyzed in depth the response relationship between land subsidence and reclamation projects time as well as the land use type. The results show that the Lingang Industrial Zone was the earliest to be reclaimed, with extensive reclamation completed by 2016 year, while Nangang Industrial Zone and Hangu Port started reclamation projects in 2009 year, some areas are still currently under construction. There is a strong correlation between surface deformation and reclamation time, the severe land subsidence occurred over newly reclaimed areas. Surface deformation gradually intensifies from west to east, the maximum surface settlement in Nangang Industrial Zone, Lingang Industrial Zone from the west to the east has changed from -50 mm to -890 mm,45 mm to -580 mm, respectively, reclamation area of Hangu Port with maximum surface deformation is -250 mm. Significant differences deformation among different land use types, which reclamation projects completed in the same time. Subsidence is positively correlated with surface load, in areas with higher surface loads, the surface settlement is also severer,the average surface settlement for the heavy shipyard, 67 grain storage tanks, 27 grain storage tanks, road, and bare land are -201 mm, -166 mm, -107 mm, -64 mm, and -43 mm, respectively. This study reveals significant differences of surface deformation in the reclamation completed at different times and the load is the main driving factor of settlement difference in the reclamation land completed at the same time. Which has important guiding significance for preventing and controlling geological disasters in the reclamation area and later development planning.
Prognostic Significance of Amino Acid and Biogenic Amines Profiling in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Gervasini Guillermo , Verde Zoraida , González Luz María , Chicharro Celia , González-Rodríguez Laura , Fernández-Araque Ana , Mota-Zamorano Sonia , Pérez-Hernández Alberto , García-López Virginio , Bandrés Fernando , Robles Nicolás Roberto
Published: September 2023

There is a pressing need for more precise biomarkers of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Plasma samples from 820 subjects [231 with CKD, 325 with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) and 264 controls] were analyzed by LC-MS/MS to determine a metabolic profile of 28 aminoacids (AA) and biogenic amines to test their value as markers of CKD risk and progression. The Kynurenine/Tryptophan ratio showed the strongest correlation with estimated glomerular filtration rate values (coefficient=-0.731, P<0.0001). Models created with Orthogonal Partial Least Squares-Discriminant Analysis (OPLS-DA) containing the metabolic signature showed high goodness of fit and predictability for controls/CKD (R2X:0.73;R2Y:0.92;Q2:0.92) and lower for CDK/ESKD (R2X:0.56;R2Y:0.59;Q2:0.55). Based on generated VIP scores, the most relevant markers for segregating samples into control/CKD or CKD/ESKD groups were citrulline (1.67) and tryptophan (1.59), respectively. ROC analysis showed that the addition of the metabolic profile to a model including CKD classic risk factors improved AUC from 86.7% (83.6-89.9) to 100% (100-100) for CKD risk (P<0.0001), and from 63.0% (58.2-67.8) to 96.5% (95.3-97.8) for the risk of progression from CKD to ESKD (P<0.0001). Plasma concentrations of AA and related amines may be useful as diagnostic biomarkers of kidney disease, both for CKD risk and for progression of CKD patients to ESKD.
Some discussions on equipartition theorem
Authors: Pulinchery Prasanth , Perayil Reshma , Pothyiodath Nishanth , Aravind Aravind , Murkoth Udayanandan Kandoth
Published: September 2023

During the development of physics, we can see that the Equipartition Theorem (EPT) has been redefined many times. In this paper, we start with the description of the historical development of the theorem along with the various definitions given by different scientists. Then we found the expressions for classical, quantum, and discrete energy systems and redefined EPT.
Fabrication of Fluorine-Doped Tin Oxide (FTO): From experiment to its application in physics learning
Authors: Saehana Sahrul , Izzah Aqidatul , Palamba Agnes Jois’ , Darsikin Darsikin , Rahman Nor Farahwahidah Abdul
Published: September 2023

The paper reports the experiment in the laboratory in making FTO by employing spray pyrolysis methods, its application in DSSC, and its implementation in physics learning. The methodology in this research was mixed methods (experiment and qualitative methods). The experimental section was conducted by dissolving SnCl2.2H2O and NH4F in 96% alcohol and then depositioned on a glass substrate on a hotplate with a temperature of 450◦C using an Omron NE-C28 nebulizer. Spraying was carried out for 20 minutes then characterized morphology (SEM), content (EDS), crystal structure (XRD), transmittance (UV-VIS), and voltage-current (IV). Based on investigations using Scanning Electron Microscopy and Electron Dispersive Spectroscopy, it is known that transparent conductive SnO2:F particles have been formed. By using XRD, Nanometer-sized crystalline particles have also been identified. Furthermore, the FTO electrode is utilized as an electrode on DSSC and its performance is measured. In the qualitative section, students and researchers were interviewed about the physical aspect of the FTO fabrication process. Then, interview results were used to design laboratory physics learning.
Applicability of CoastSnap, a crowd-sourced coastal monitoring approach for US Army Corps of Engineers district use
Authors: Conery Ian , Bruder Brittany , Geis Connor , Straub Jessamin , Spore Nicholas , Brodie Katherine
Published: September 2023

This US Army Engineer Research and Development Center, Coastal and Hydraulics Laboratory, technical report details the pilot deployment, accuracy evaluation, and best practices of the citizen-science, coastal-image monitoring program CoastSnap. Despite the need for regular observational data, many coastlines are monitored infrequently due to cost and personnel, and this cell phone-image-based approach represents a new potential data source to districts in addition to providing an outreach opportunity for the public. Requiring minimal hardware and signage, the system is simple to install but requires user-image processing. Analysis shows the CoastSnap-derived shorelines compare well to real-time kinematic and lidar-derived shorelines during low-to-moderate wave conditions (root mean square errors [RMSEs] <10 m). During high-wave conditions, errors are higher (RMSE up to 18 m) but are improved when incorporating wave run-up. Beyond shoreline quantification, images provide other qualitative information such as storm-impact characteristics and timing of the formation of beach scarps. Ultimately, the citizen-science tool is a viable low-cost option to districts for monitoring shorelines and tracking the evolution of coastal projects such as beach nourishments.
Gus staining
Authors: Li Lily
Published: September 2023

This experiment aims to establish a Gus staining method for detecting the distribution and activity of β-glucuronidase (GUS) in tissues.
Effect of Salinity on Biological Nitrogen Removal from Wastewater and Its Mechanism
Authors: Chen Shiqi , Liu Cheng , Cao Guoxun , Li Ke , Huang Junliang
Published: September 2023

Saline wastewater often contains many nitrogen-containing pollutants, which will pollute the environment if discharged directly. As a high-efficiency and low-cost treatment method, biological treatment has a good application prospect in the nitrogen removal of high-salt wastewater. However, the inhibitory effect of high salt on microorganisms increases the difficulty of its treatment. This review discusses the influence of salinity on the nitrogen removal process in terms of both traditional and novel biological techniques. Common means to improve the effectiveness of biological nitrogen removal processes and their mechanism of action in engineering practice and research, mainly including sludge acclimation and inoculation of halophilic bacteria are also introduced. An outlook on the future development of biological nitrogen removal processes for high-salt wastewater is given to achieve green discharge of high-salt wastewater.
Design of a Dual-arched Structure for Low-frequency Vibration Isolation with Enhanced Quasi-Zero-Stiffness Characteristics
Authors: Feng Xiao , Guo Yanning , Feng Jian , Wang Hailin , Qi Long
Published: September 2023

This paper proposes a dual-arched nonlinear anti-vibration structure (D-ANAVS) and systematically investigates its nonlinear characteristics to assess its vibration suppression performance. The D-ANAVS consists of a dual arrangement of arch-shaped arcs, which demonstrates a distinctive characteristic characterized by the combination of linear and geometric nonlinear stiffness during the compression. This distinctive attribute distinguishes the D-ANAVS from other structures, endowing it with an extended quasi-zero stiffness range in displacement and greatly enhancing its performance in effectively suppressing vibrations. A lumped parameter model of the D-ANAVS is introduced to comprehensively analyze its static and dynamic behaviors. The investigation specifically focuses on examining the influence of various structural parameters on the observed nonlinearities. A prototype is meticulously designed and fabricated using thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material. Experimental tests are conducted to assess its efficacy in suppressing vibrations. The obtained results unequivocally demonstrate the remarkable capability of the D-ANAVS to significantly attenuate vibrations within the low-frequency range. The results obtained from this study offer compelling empirical evidence that substantiates the effectiveness of the D-ANAVS as a robust vibration suppression solution applicable to a wide range of engineering applications.
RELEASE (REdressing Long-tErm Antidepressant uSE): Protocol for a 3-arm pragmatic cluster randomised controlled trial effectiveness-implementation hybrid type-1 in general practice
Authors: Wallis Katharine Ann , Donald Maria , Horowitz Mark , Moncrieff Joanna , Ware Robert , Byrnes Joshua , Thrift Karen , Cleetus Maryanne , Panahi Idin , Zwar Nicholas , Morgan Mark , Freeman Christopher , Scott Ian
Published: September 2023

BackgroundMany people experience withdrawal symptoms when they attempt to stop antidepressants. Withdrawal symptoms are readily misconstrued for relapse or ongoing need for medication, contributing to long-term use (> 12 months). Long-term antidepressant use is increasing internationally yet is not recommended for most people. Long-term use is associated with adverse effects including weight gain, sexual dysfunction, lethargy, emotional numbing and increased risk of falls and fractures. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of two multi-strategy interventions (RELEASE and RELEASE+) in supporting safe cessation of long-term antidepressants, estimate cost-effectiveness, and evaluate implementation strategies.MethodsDesign: 3-arm pragmatic cluster randomised controlled trial effectiveness-implementation hybrid type-1. Setting: primary care general practices in southeast Queensland, Australia. Population: adults 18 years or older taking antidepressants for longer than one year. Practices will be randomised on a 1.5:1:1 ratio of Usual care:RELEASE:RELEASE+. Intervention: RELEASE for patients includes evidence-based information and resources and invitation to medication review; RELEASE for GPs includes education, training and printable resources via practice management software. RELEASE + includes additional internet support for patients, and prescribing support including audit and feedback for GPs. Outcome measures: the primary outcome is antidepressant use at 12-months self-reported by patients. Cessation is defined as 0mg antidepressant maintained for at least 2 weeks. Secondary outcomes: at 6- and 12-months are health-related quality of life, antidepressant side effects, wellbeing, withdrawal symptoms, emotional numbing, beliefs about antidepressants, depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms; and at 12-months 75% reduction in antidepressant dose; aggregated practice level antidepressant prescribing, and health service utilisation for costs. Sample size: 653 patients from 28 practices. A concurrent evaluation of implementation will be through mixed methods including interviews with up to 40 patients and primary care general practitioners, brief e-surveys, and study administrative data to assess implementation outcomes (adoption and fidelity).DiscussionThe RELEASE study will develop new knowledge applicable internationally on the effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and implementation of two multi-strategy interventions in supporting safe cessation of long-term antidepressants to improve primary health care and outcomes for patients.Trial registration:ANZCTR, ACTRN12622001379707p. Registered 27 October 2022, https://www.anzctr.org.au/ACTRN12622001379707p.aspx
Record-shattering spring heatwave in western Mediterranean amplified by long-term drought
Authors: Lemus-Canovas Marc , Insua-Costa Damian , Miralles Diego , Trigo Ricardo M.
Published: September 2023

The western Mediterranean region experienced an exceptional and unprecedented early heatwave in April 2023. By shattering historical temperature records, especially in the Iberian Peninsula and northwestern Africa, this extreme offers a stark illustration of a drought–heatwave compound event. Here we investigate the soil moisture–temperature interactions that underpinned this event, using the most up-to-date observations and a novel statistical analysis. Our results reveal that soil moisture deficit preconditions, concurring with a strong subtropical ridge as a synoptic driver, had a key contribution to the amplification and duration of this record-breaking heatwave. Specifically, we estimate that the most extreme temperature records would have been 4.53 times less likely and 2.19°C lower had the soils been wet. These findings indicate that soil moisture content may be a crucial variable for seasonal forecasting of early HW in this region and other Mediterranean climate regimes that already suffering an increment in the frequency of compound drought–heatwave events.
4H Silicon Carbide Bulk Acoustic Wave MEMS Gyroscope with Ultra-High Q for On-Chip Inertial Navigation
Authors: Liu Zhenming , Long Yaoyao , Wehner Charlotte , Wen Haoran , Ayazi Farrokh
Published: September 2023

Inertial navigation on a chip has been an unfulfilled dream limited by the noise and stability of micromechanical Coriolis gyroscopes. While silicon has been the mainstream material for microelectromechanical system (MEMS) devices, the performance of silicon MEMS gyroscope has come near the physical limit of its material properties. To overcome these limitations, we explore the potential of silicon carbide (SiC), specifically 4H-SiC, as a promising substrate for substantially enhancing MEMS gyroscope performance, owing to its small phonon Akhiezer dissipation and in-plane isotropic hexagonal crystal lattice. Here we report on low-noise electrostatic acoustic resonant gyroscopes with mechanical Q factors in excess of a few million fabricated on bonded 4H silicon carbide-on-insulator wafers. The reported gyroscopes use megahertz bulk acoustic wave (BAW) mode for wide open-loop bandwidth. The gyroscopes are actuated and tuned electrostatically using micron gaps defined by wafer-level deep reactive ion etching (DRIE). Experimental results indicated that these batch-fabricated SiC gyroscopes have very minimum inherent imperfections across wafers, and upon tuning, beyond-tactical grade gyroscope performance is achieved under various testing conditions. Moreover, we highlight the higher quality factor of the silicon carbide BAW resonators at higher temperatures, in contrast to conventional silicon devices. This characteristic enables temperature stabilization through ovenization while achieving better gyroscope performance. The 4H-SiC BAW gyroscopes demonstrated here are the first of their kind and pave the way for the use of 4H-SiC as a superior acoustic material for next-generation MEMS positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) devices.
Evaluation of the development of science capital in an informal science learning setting
Authors: Quirke Senthila , Hossain Sarmin
Published: September 2023

STEM knowledge and skills are in demand and are valued globally, for utilitarian and transformative purposes. In the UK, it has been recognised that there is a persistent shortage of students, especially from particular socioeconomic backgrounds, studying STEM subjects in post-compulsory education. To promote the uptake of STEM subjects, initiatives have been funded by the UK government which enrich the STEM learning ecosystem. Yet a disparity remains in the demographics of those who aspire to enter and remain in the STEM pipeline. This study focused on one aspect of the STEM learning ecosystem, known as designed informal science learning (ISL) settings. The study drew on the concept of science capital to explore how ISL settings inspire their visiting students towards studying STEM subjects. Science capital is a concept that encapsulates an individual's science-related resources and dispositions. The concept advocates that the higher an individual’s science capital, the greater their likelihood of participation in science education. A case study approach was adopted to evaluate one ISL setting based in London and was given a pseudonym - the Pandora Centre. The data collection included interviews with the STEM educators and questionnaires administered to the visiting teachers as well as on-site observations. This study concludes that there is scope for students to develop some dimensions of science capital by engaging with the provision of the Pandora Centre. The study proposes recommendations for enhancing science capital development strategies that will widen participation. These findings can be valuable to the enhancement of similar ISL settings.
Incidence and Outcomes of Post-Operative Endophthalmitis Following Elective Phacoemulsification Cataract Surgery between 2015 and 2022.
Authors: Khan Sharmina , Ting Magdalene Yin Lin , Pocobelli Giulio , Toia Diana , Mandal Nakul , Nicholson Luke
Published: September 2023

Background
Cataract surgery remains the commonest ophthalmic surgical procedure in the UK. Post-operative endophthalmitis (POE) is a sight-threatening complication. This study presents the incidence and outcomes of POE within Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (MEH) in London, UK.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective, tertiary-centre study of the incidence and outcomes of POE following elective phacoemulsification cataract surgery between 2015 and 2022.
Results
We report a rate of 18 out of 154 826 (0.012%) cases of POE within seven weeks of cataract surgery. The age range was 43–87 years (mean age 67.1 years), and the male-to-female ratio was 1:1. Two cases were associated with intraoperative vitreous loss, one with anterior capsular tear extending to posterior capsular tear and the other with posterior capsular tear and dropped fragment. Two cases had a concomitant intravitreal injection, one of Triamcinolone Acetonide and the other of Dexamethasone implant (Ozurdex®), to manage chronic uveitic macular oedema. The majority of samples (89.9%) resulted in Gram-positive species. A final best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of Snellen 6/36 or better was achieved in 12/18 (66.67%). The time from cataract surgery to suspicion of POE ranged from 3 to 44 days (mean 15.8 days). Eight cases (44.4%) required pars plana vitrectomy (PPV).
Conclusions
We demonstrate an incidence of POE of 0.012% following phacoemulsification at MEH from January 2015 to December 2022. Such results are a testament to high-quality surgery, training supervision and post-operative care whilst adhering to local and international standards.
Physiological responses of grapevine (Vitis vinifera var. ‘Pinot gris’) affected by different flavescence dorée genotypes: Dynamics through the development of phytoplasma infection
Authors: DAVOSIR Dino , ŠOLA Ivana , Music Martina Seruga
Published: September 2023

Phytoplasmas are phytopathogenic bacteria that cause serious damage to agriculture. A quarantine pathogen flavescence dorée phytoplasma (FDp), often associated with grapevine yellows disease, affects viticultural production across Europe. However, the mechanisms of FDp pathogenicity still are not elucidated. In this study, symptomatic and asymptomatic grapevine (Vitis vinifera L. var. ‘Pinot gris’) were sampled. Two different FDp genotypes (M38 and M54) were identified, and genotype-dependent changes to grapevine physiological responses through the development of FDp infection were analysed. Correlation analyses established a potential linked between measured physiological parameters and relative FDp DNA abundance. Increased malondialdehyde levels pointed to the oxidative stress in infected leaves, and highly correlated with the activation of L-ascorbic acid synthesis. Levels of hydrogen peroxide were reduced in infected leaves, possibly as FDp mechanism to avoid plant-derived oxidative damage. Genotype M54 was associated with a lower accumulation of soluble sugars and lower damage to photosynthetic pigments, while retaining a higher titre than M38. Therefore, pronounced phytoplasma genotype-dependent changes in grapevine physiology, potentially caused by the differences between M54 and M38 on the level of the efficiency of their effectors should be further investigated. Altogether, results provide data on certain targets of FDp in grapevine and could assist the identification of potential specific effectors of this phytoplasma to aid the efforts of FDp management in European vineyards.
CircCOPS8 inhibits the proliferation of buffalo myoblasts by binding to IGF2BP3 and promoting tumor suppressor gene expression
Authors: Sun Ping , Dou Yuting , Chen Mengjie , Song Mingming , Qu Xiuwen , Huang Yuanyuan , Zhang Liyin , Qiao Wanping , Jiang Mingsheng , Liu Qingyou , Shi Deishun , Wang Jian , Hui Li
Published: September 2023

Background
Buffalo is a characteristic species in Guangxi, whose meat is nutrient-dense and good for the human body because of its polyunsaturated fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid. CircRNA is a type of non-coding RNA contributing to the growth of skeletal muscle via molecular sponges, protein scaffolds, and coded short peptides.
Results
Our prior RNA-seq results presented that the expression of circCOPS8 in the longissimus muscle of buffalo and cattle was considerably different. According to the results of western blotting and qPCR (P < 0.05), circCOPS8 improved the differentiation and suppressed the proliferation of buffalo myoblasts. However, the outcomes of the mouse muscle injury model showed that circCOPS8 hindered mice from repairing their damaged muscles. Further study on the mechanism of RIP-qPCR proved that circCOPS8 could bind to IGF2BP3 (P < 0.05). Transcriptome sequencing along with the outcomes of qPCR further demonstrated that circCOPS8 may also prevent cell growth by activating tumor suppressor genes (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
CircCOPS8 inhibits cell proliferation by binding to IGF2BP3 and promoting ATR gene expression. This study described the function and mechanism of circCOPS8, setting the theoretical groundwork for research of circRNAs regulating buffalo muscle growth.
The relationship between changes in peak expiratory flow and asthma exacerbations in asthmatic children
Authors: Chen xiongbin , Shen kunling
Published: September 2023

Background
Asthma is is one of the most common chronic airway diseases in children. The aim of this study is to analyze whether children with asthma have changes in PEF before an acute asthma exacerbation and to evaluate the relationship between peak expiratory flow (PEF) and asthma exacerbation.
METHODS
Basic information (including sex, age, atopy, BMI, etc.) and clinical information of asthmatic children registered in the Electronic China Children's Asthma Action Plan (e-CCAAP) from 1 September 2017 to 31 August 2021 were collected. Subjects with 14 consecutive days of PEF measurements were eligible. Subjects in this study were divided into an exacerbation group and a control group. We analyzed the relationship between changes in PEF% pred and the presence of asthma symptoms.
Result
A total of 194 children with asthma who met the inclusion criteria were included, including 144 males (74.2%) and 50 females (25.8%), with a male-to-female ratio of 2.88:1. The mean age of the subjects was 9.51 ± 2.5 years. There were no significant differences in sex, age, allergy history, BMI distribution or baseline PEF between the two groups. In children with and without a history of allergy, there was no significant difference between the variation in PEF at 14 days. Children who showed only a decline in PEF had a significantly greater decline in PEF than the rest of the population. The most common cause of acute exacerbations of asthma is upper respiratory tract infection. Among the causes of acute exacerbations of asthma, the variation in PEF caused by air pollution was significantly higher than that of other causes (P < 0.05). In acute exacerbations, the decrease in PEF was significantly greater in the exacerbation group than in the control group. In children with asthma symptoms, there was a decrease in PEF approximately 1.34 days before the onset of symptoms.
Conclusion
Children with asthma show a decrease in PEF 1.34 days before the onset of asthma symptoms. We recommend that asthmatic children who show a decrease in PEF should step-up asthma therapy. The most common cause of acute exacerbations of asthma was upper respiratory tract infections, and the variation in PEF caused by air pollution was significantly higher than that caused by other factors.
Performance of oxygenation indices and risk scores to predict invasive mechanical ventilation and mortality in COVID-19
Authors: Bastidas-Goyes Alirio , Tuta-Quintero Eduardo , Aguilar Maria F , Mora Angelica V , Aponte Hermencia C , Villamizar Jesus M , Galeano Susana , Mejia Paola , Muñoz Maria , Paredes Sara , Pumarejo Doris , Barragan Maria Del Mar
Published: September 2023

Background
Information on the performance of oxygenation indices (IO) and risk scores in patients requiring invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) is limited. We determine the performance of the IOs and risk scores in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 to predict the requirement of IMV and death at 7, 14 and 28 days after admission.
Methods
Retrospective cohort study in patients admitted to the emergency department, hospitalization, and intensive care unit diagnosed with COVID-19 and in whom oxygenation indices were measured within the first 6 hours of admission, between 6 and 12 hours, 12 to 24 hours and greater than 24 hours. The receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC-curve) were built with the OIs and risk scores to predict IMV and mortality.
Results
A total of 1402 subjects entered the final analysis, of whom 19.5% (274/1402) received IMV and 23.0% (323/1402) died at 28 days. In the general population, the mean age was 59.9 years (SD 16.19), the male sex represented 63.3% (888/1402) and the duration from the onset of symptoms was 7.3 days (SD: 13.26). Analysis with the De Long test showed that at 7, 14 and 28 days the ROC-curves with the best performance for IMV were PaO2/FiO2, 4C score, SOFA score and SaO2/FiO2, the ROC curves of the rest of the OI evaluated were lower (p < 0.001). At 28 days, the ROC-curve with the best behavior for death was 4C compared to the ROC-curves of the rest of the OI and risk scores evaluated (p < 0.001).
Conclusion
PaO2/FiO2 ≤ 300, 4C score ≥ 8, SOFA score ≥ 4 y SaO2/FiO2 ≤ 300 were weak predictors of the IMV requirement from admission, and 4C score ≥ 8 was weak predictors of the mortality from admission in patients with pulmonary involvement by COVID-19.
Transversal Competencies in Peruvian dental students in times of COVID-19
Authors: Gómez-Meza Dora Noelia , Lamas-Lara Victor Fernando , Mattos-Vela Manuel Antonio , Evaristo-Chiyong Teresa , Cuadrao-Zavaleta Luis Alberto , Guerrero Maria Eugenia
Published: September 2023

Background
Transversal competencies are crucial for university students' academic-professional training and labor insertion. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the transversal competencies (instrumental, interpersonal, and systemic) according to sociodemographic variables in Peruvian dental students during COVID-19.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was carried out on second to sixth-year students of Peruvian dental school. A validated printed questionnaire on transversal competencies was used, which contains two sections, the first corresponding to the sociodemographic characteristics of the student and the second to the transversal competencies. The survey was conducted between May and August 2022. Descriptive statistics were applied for each of the competencies. The Friedman, Dunn-Bonferroni post-hoc, Mann-Whitney U, and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to relate the study variables.
Results
The three types of competencies presented similar median values (3); four competencies obtained lower median values. Interpersonal competencies presented lower statistically significant values (p = 0.003) when compared to instrumental and systemic competencies.
Conclusions
No connection was found between each group of transversal competencies and sociodemographic variables.
Changes in Lake Inundation and Shrinkage Within the Framework of Coevolutionary River-Lake state
Authors: Wang Hongxiang , Bai Xiangyu , Yuan Weiqi , Cheng Siyuan , Huang Lintong , Yang Huan , Ma Yanchu , Guo Wenxian
Published: September 2023

The Dongting Lake (DTL) area constitutes a naturally interconnected lake wetland. Alterations in river-lake relationships are poised to profoundly modify the ecological condition of lake region. This study aims to investigate the co-evolutionary attributes and ecological response mechanisms involving the Yangtze River, the Four Rivers within the DTL basin (DFR), and DTL itself during extreme hydrological events. Amidst the trajectory of wetland contraction, the impact of shifts in river-lake relationships on the wetland's state remains unclear. Thus, we employ cross-wavelet transformation and the multifractal method to establish a framework for co-evolution between rivers and lake. Through this framework, we analyze the varying progression of hydrological relationships within the river-lake system and their corresponding responses. The findings reveal that instances of low-water events in DTL predominantly manifest during winter and spring. These low-water events exhibit a propensity to occur frequently and irregularly, except during July-August, coinciding with the Yangtze River's flood regulation period. Additionally, the DFR-DTL system demonstrates a wider periodicity and more pronounced positive continuity, serving as the principal impetus behind the ecological evolution of DTL. Simultaneously, alterations in the inundation status across DTL regions display an ascending trend from west to east. The predominant influence of the Yuan River and the Yangtze River leads to the majority of water degradation areas being concentrated in the western DTL region, where sedimentation is particularly severe. The changes in river-lake relationships showcase substantial variability and exert distinct impacts on DTL's hydrological evolution through a range of confluence regions.
Serum amyloid A-dependent inflammasome activation and acute injury in a mouse model of experimental stroke
Authors: Yu Jin , Zhu Hong , Taheri Saeid , Lee June-Yong , Diamond David M. , Kirstein Cheryl , Kindy Mark S.
Published: September 2023

Serum amyloid A (SAA) proteins increase dramatically in the blood following inflammation. Recently, SAAs are increased in humans following stroke and in ischemic animal models. However, the impact of SAAs on whether this signal is critical in the ischemic brain remains unknown. Therefore, we investigated the role of SAA and SAA signaling in the ischemic brain. Wildtype and SAA deficient mice were exposed to middle cerebral artery occlusion and reperfusion, examined for the impact of infarct volumes, behavioral changes, inflammatory markers, TUNEL staining, and BBB changes. The underlying mechanisms were investigated using SAA deficient mice, transgenic mice and viral vectors. SAA levels were significantly increase following MCAo and mice deficient in SAAs showed reduced infarct volumes and improved behavioral outcomes. SAA deficient mice showed a reduction in TUNEL staining, inflammation and decreased glial activation. Mice lacking acute phase SAAs demonstrated a reduction in expression of the NLRP3 inflammasome and SAA/NLRP3 KO mice showed improvement. Restoration of SAA expression via SAA tg mice or adenoviral expression reestablished the detrimental effects of SAA. A reduction in BBB permeability was seen in the SAA KO mice and anti-SAA antibody treatment reduced the effects on ischemic injury. SAA signaling plays a critical role in regulating NLRP3-induced inflammation and glial activation in the ischemic brain. Blocking this signal will be a promising approach for treating ischemic stroke.
Competition or contingency? Using CRISPR/Cas9-induced mutants to examine the potential origin of a unique mutant allele in twin-tail goldfish
Authors: Lee Shu-Hua , Wang Chen Yi , Li Ing-Jia , Abe Gembu , Ota Kinya
Published: September 2023

Artificial selection has been widely applied to genetically fix rare phenotypic features in ornamental domesticated animals. For many of these animals, the mutated loci and alleles underlying rare phenotypes are known. However, few studies have explored whether these rare genetic mutations might have been fixed due to competition among related mutated alleles or if the fixation occurred due to contingent stochastic events. Here, we performed genetic crossing with twin-tail ornamental goldfish and CRISPR/Cas9-mutated goldfish to investigate why only a single mutated allele – chdS with a E127X stop codon (also called chdAE127X) – gives rise to the twin-tail phenotype in the modern domesticated goldfish population. Two closely related chdS mutants were generated with CRISPR/Cas9 and compared with the E127X allele in F2 and F3 generations. Both of the CRISPR/Cas9-generated alleles were equivalent to the E127X allele in terms of penetrance/expressivity of the twin-tail phenotype and viability of carriers. These findings indicate that multiple truncating mutations could have produced viable twin-tail goldfish. Therefore, the absence of polymorphic alleles for the twin-tail phenotype in modern goldfish likely stems from stochastic elimination or a lack of competing alleles in the common ancestor. Our study is the first experimental comparison of a singular domestication-derived allele with CRISPR/Cas9-generated alleles to understand how genetic fixation of a unique genotype and phenotype may have occurred. Thus, our work may provide a conceptual framework for future investigations of rare evolutionary events in domesticated animals.
New methods based on a genetic algorithm back propagation (GABP) neural network for predicting the cigarette ventilation rate
Authors: Wei Jiaxin , Wang Zhengwei , Wang Xiaoming , Xu Huan , Wang Xiushan , Yao Sen , Song Weimin , Wang Youwei , Mei Chao
Published: September 2023

The ventilation rate of cigarettes is an important indicator that affects the suction resistance of cigarettes. This paper used multiple linear regression networks (MLR), backpropagation neural networks (BPNN), and genetic algorithm-optimized backpropagation (GABP) to construct a model for the prediction of cigarette ventilation rate. The model results indicated that the total ventilation rate was significantly positively correlated with unit weight(P<0.01), circumference, hardness, filter permeability, and suction resistance. The results showed that the MLR models' (RMSE = 0.651, R2 = 0.841) and the BPNN models' (RMSE = 0.640, R2 = 0.847) prediction ability were limited. Optimization by genetic algorithm (GA), GABP models were generated and exhibited better prediction performance(RMSE=0.606, R2=0.873). The results indicated that the GABP model has the highest accuracy in the prediction of predicting ventilation rate and can accurately predict cigarette ventilation rate. This method can provide theoretical guidance and technical support for the stability study of the ventilation rate of the unit.
Transfer Learning and Self-Distillation for automated detection of schizophrenia using single-channel EEG and scalogram images
Authors: Mostafavi Mohammad Reza , Ko Seokbum , Shokouhi Shahriar Baradaran , Ayatollahi Ahmad
Published: September 2023

Schizophrenia (SZ) has been acknowledged as a highly intricate mental disorder for a long time. In fact, individuals with SZ experience a blurred line between fantasy and reality, leading to a lack of awareness about their condition, which can pose significant challenges during the treatment process. Due to the importance of the issue, timely diagnosis of this illness can not only assist patients and their families in managing the condition but also enable early intervention, which may help prevent its advancement. EEG is a widely utilized technique for investigating mental disorders like SZ due to its non-invasive nature, affordability, and wide accessibility. In this study, our main goal is to develop an optimized system that can achieve automatic diagnosis of SZ with minimal input information. To optimize the system, we adopted a strategy of using single-channel EEG signals and integrated knowledge distillation and transfer learning techniques into the model. This approach was designed to improve the performance and efficiency of our proposed method for SZ diagnosis. Additionally, to leverage the pre-trained models effectively, we converted the EEG signals into images using Continuous Wavelet Transform (CWT). This transformation allowed us to harness the capabilities of pre-trained models in the image domain, enabling automatic SZ detection with enhanced efficiency. The accuracy achieved from the 5-second records of the EEG signal, along with the combination of self-distillation and VGG16 for the P4 channel, is 97.83% ± 1.3. This indicates a high level of accuracy in diagnosing SZ using the proposed method.
Threshold effect of governance quality in the relationship between public health expenditure and life expectancy at birth in the West African Economic and Monetary Union
Authors: BOUNDIOA Jacques , THIOMBIANO Noël
Published: September 2023

Background The population in the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) suffers poor health, as manifested in low life expectancy at birth. Public health expenditure (PHE) has long been viewed as having the potential to improve health. However, the relationship between PHE and health outcomes is inconclusive. In view of the above, poor governance could be a factor inhibiting the effect of public health expenditure on certain health indicators. This article analyzes the threshold effect of governance quality on the relationship between public health spending and life expectancy at birth in WAEMU.Methods The data used come from the Worldwide Governance Indicators (WGI) database and the World Bank's World Development Indicators and cover the period 1996–2018. Threshold-effect analysis for Hansen (1999) was performed to assess the relation between governance quality and public health expenditure with life expectancy at birth.Result The results show that governance quality is a transition variable at which public health expenditure affects life expectancy. Indeed, for public health spending to have a positive and significant effect on life expectancy at birth, the level of governance quality must be above 0.42 on a 0–1 scale.Conclusion Public health expenditure affects life expectancy if the quality of governance is high. Improving governance quality must be a prerequisite for any allocation of public resources in the health sector in WAEMU.
A level Ellipsoid for modelling regional Gravity Field
Authors: Chivatsi Jonathan Nyoka , Md Ami Hassan , Pa'suya Muhammad Faiz
Published: September 2023

Modern, very precise gravity models are now being created in the discipline of geodesy, using purely satellite techniques. Thanks to the GOCE and GRACE missions, high quality global gravitational models have been computed and made available to users. The models allow for the derivation of gravity field functionals when coupled with reference equipotential normal ellipsoids, such as GRS80 and WGS84. These ellipsoids represent the global fit to the geoid, but may depart from the geoid in local circumstances. The precision of computed gravimetric field functionals depends on the fit of the reference model to the geoid. In this study, a regional normal ellipsoid that fits the local geoid is computed from terrestrial data, using both ordinary and combined least squares optimization techniques, applying the theory of equipotential ellipsoid. Results from the combined model were used to compute the geometrical and physical constants of the new ellipsoid A normal ellipsoid, with semi-major axis of 6378145.549089m and flattening, 269.792502072 and the same mass and angular velocity as the earth was obtained. These parameters can be used with a geopotential model to yield smoother gravity field functionals, for use in geoid modelling and other geoscience applications.
Data Perturbation for Pervasive Edge Computing Environments Using Iterative Randomised Parallel Variable Perturbation in Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Shukur Mohamed Ghouse , G Anuradha M , L Niranjan , Ahmed Mohammed Mohsin , Sabahath Asfia , P Parthasarathy , Mubarakali Azath
Published: September 2023

The reduction in the size of Packet Forwarding Nodes (PFNs) is a direct consequence of technological advancements in wireless sensor networks (WSN). Each node has an extra characteristic that results in diminished energy levels. The dispersed PFNs are arranged in a squared cross-sectional area, where each node functions as a Sensing Point (SP) capable of performing diverse applications such as temperature, ambient humidity, sound, and pressure measurements. The packet is partitioned into many fragments, with each fragment being classified as either having an exact or variable length. Each individual packet is sent over numerous Physical Forwarding Nodes (PFNs) on route to the data centre, using the PFNs as the underlying mechanism for transmission. The choice of route forwarding nodes (PFNs) is determined by their respective trust levels. Within the network, designated Packet Forwarding Nodes (PFNs) are strategically positioned to facilitate the delivery of packets to the data centre, ensuring the integrity of the data is preserved throughout the process. The process of selecting certain PFNs involves the calculation of meeting probability, remaining energy, data weight, and security value. The comparative analysis involves evaluating the Iterative Randomised Parallel Variable Perturbation (IRPVP) method against conventional approaches based on various parameters, including delay, link count, resource energy, healthy PFNs, non-healthy PFNs, health ratio computation, remaining energy, control to data ratio, and balancing factor. The results of the simulation demonstrate that the efficacy of the proposed Iterative Randomised Parallel Variable Perturbation (IRPVP) method surpasses that of other traditional algorithms.
Depressive Symptoms and Supraspinal Functional Connectivity in Veterans with Gulf War Illness-related Chronic Pain
Authors: Leung Albert , Le Valerie , Lopez Caleb , Ho Michael , Collin Lauren , Zeynalvand Anni , Kim Elise , Kim Stephen , Lee Roland R.
Published: September 2023

Both chronic pain and depressive symptoms are highly prevalent in Veterans with Gulf War illness(GWI). This study assessed how the severity of depressive symptoms may correlate with pain symptomology and supraspinal pain modulatory functional connectivity(FC) in the Veterans with GWI-related chronic Headache, And body muscle and joint Pain conditions(GWI-HAP). Resting state fMRI region of interest (ROI)-to-ROI FC analyses indicated the Veterans with GWI-HAP and moderate to severe depressive symptoms reflected by Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression score ≥14(GWI≥14) showed significantly enhanced FC with the adjacent frontal cortex(Brodmann Area[BA] 44; P < 0.001; t = 4.64) and the contralateral Insula(BA 13; P < 0.001; t = 7.14), and two regions of contralateral thalamus(P < 0.01, P < 0.001; t = 5.32, t = 5.25 respectively); and decreased FC with the ipsilateral premotor cortex(BA 6; P < 0.01; t = -3.34) and contralateral anterior cingulate cortex(BA 32; P < 0.001; t = -3.64) than their counterparts with no or mild depressive symptoms(GWI < 14). These findings are correlated with more pain symptomology, and functional and quality of life impairments found in the GWI≥14 group. Potential therapeutic interventions applicable for addressing both highly prevalent co-morbid conditions may utilize this mechanistic correlation.