bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of a Newly-developed Oral and Maxillofacial Surgical Robotic Platform (KD-SR-01) in Head and Neck Surgery: A Preclinical Trial in Porcine Models
Authors: Li Chunjie , Ma Zhongkai , Guo Zhiyong , Ding Zhangfan , Cao Chang , He Jialu , Tang Heyi , Lubamba Grace , Hong Jiawei , Wang Xiaoyi , Zhu Guiquan
Published: February 2024

Robotic surgery is known as the "third technological revolution" in the field of surgery, and is an important milestone in the development of modern surgery. However, there is a notable absence of robots tailored specifically for head and neck surgery. In this study, we evaluated the feasibility, validity, and security of a newly-developed oral and maxillofacial robotic surgical platform in head and neck surgery, comparing it with a standard endoscopic system. Six healthy porcine models were randomly assigned to either the robotic group using KD-SR-01 or the endoscopic group. A single surgeon performed parotidectomy, submandibular gland resection, and neck dissection in both groups, collecting baseline characteristics, operative data, postoperative outcomes, and cognitive workload assessments. The results showed that all operations were completed successfully without any serious complications. The robotic group demonstrated a rapid average docking time of 5.50 ± 1.05 minutes for head and neck surgical procedures, with a total operative time of 88.00 ± 5.76 minutes, compared to 81.33 ± 7.81 minutes in the endoscopic group. Notably, the robotic group had significantly lower estimated blood loss and reduced cognitive workload on the surgeon and assistant. This study concludes that the newly-developed oral and maxillofacial surgical robotic system is technically feasible, safe, and valid for head and neck surgery, holding great promise for the future. However, further investigation through well-designed clinical trials with long-term follow-up is necessary to establish the full potential of this emerging robotic platform.
A Functional Resonance Analytical Methodology exploration of the essential functions of a paediatric major trauma centre responding to a mass casualty incident
Authors: MacKinnon Ralph James , Slater David , Jenner Rachel , Stenfors Terese , Kennedy Christopher , Pukk-Harenstam Karin
Published: February 2024

Background
Functional Resonance Analytical Methodology (FRAM) is a systematic approach to model and explore how complex systems adapt to variations and to understand resilient properties in the face of perturbations. Mass Casualty Incidents are rare but can significantly stress healthcare systems. The aim of this study was to use FRAM to create a model of a paediatric trauma system during the initial response to the Manchester Arena Attack to provide resilience-based insights for the management of future Mass Casualty Incidents (MCI).
Methods
Qualitative interviews in the immediate aftermath of a terrorist bombing, were followed up with further in-depth probing of subject matter experts to create a validated and verified FRAM model. This model was compared with real incident data, then simplified for future studies.
Results
A Work As Imagined (WAI) model of how a paediatric emergency department provided resilient healthcare for MCI patients from reception and resuscitation to definitive care is presented. A simplified model focussing upon the pathway for the most severely injured patients that will facilitate the simulation of a myriad of potential emergency preparedness resilience response scenarios is also presented.
Conclusions
The systematic approach undertaken in this study has produced a model of a paediatric trauma system during the initial response to the Manchester Arena Attack, providing key insights on how a resilient performance was sustained. This modelling may provide an important step forward in the preparedness and planning for future MCIs.
The Survey on Flourishing: Measuring Subjective Well-Being in an Adolescent Sample
Authors: Salazar Gus C. , Warren Jared S.
Published: February 2024

Background
Adolescent subjective well-being is a topic that has gained significant focus over recent years. This focus is reflected in the formation of measurement tools and interventions used to better understand and improve adolescent mental health. While these are important steps, there still exist problems related to adolescent subjective well-being measurement. Notably, current measurement tools are limited in their content, applicability to various populations, and in their accessibility.
Aims
The purpose of this paper is to examine the psychometric properties of the Survey on Flourishing (SURF) when used with a nationally representative adolescent sample from the United States. The SURF aims to address some of the issues with current adolescent subjective well-being measurement tools.
Method
A nationally representative US sample of 334 participants participated in the present study. We examined the reliability and validity of the SURF by examining its internal consistency, convergent validity, and discriminant validity. We also examined the factor structure of the SURF using a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA).
Results
The SURF demonstrated high internal consistency (α = .92), strong positive correlation with convergent measures, and a weak negative correlation with a discriminant measure. A one-factor model best fits the observed data.
Conclusion
The SURF demonstrated good psychometric properties and addresses several of the problems that exist in current measures. The SURF is a useful and effective measure of adolescent subjective well-being.
Multilevel Threshold Image Segmentation of Brain Tumors Using Zebra Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Alhammad Sarah , Khafaga Doaa , Elshoura Doaa , Hosny Khalid M.
Published: February 2024

A Brain Tumor (BT), further known as an intracranial tumor, is a mass of abnormal tissue whose cells multiply and procreate uncontrolled and appear unaffected by those mechanisms that control normal cells, and it causes many people's deaths each year. BT is frequently detected using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) procedures. One of the greatest common techniques for segmenting medical images is Multilevel Thresholding (MT). MT received the researchers ' attention because of its simplicity, ease of use, and accuracy. Consequently, this paper uses the most recent Zebra Optimization Algorithm (ZOA) to deal with the MT problems of MRI images. The ZOA's performance has been evaluated on 10 MRI images with threshold levels up to 10 and evaluated against five different algorithms: Sine Cosine Algorithm (SCA), Arithmetic Optimization Algorithm (AOA), Flower Pollination Algorithm (FPA), Reptile Search Algorithm (RSA), and Marine Predators Algorithm (MPA). The experimental results, which included numerous performance metrics such as Mean Square Error (MSE), Peak Signal-To-Noise Ratio (PSNR), Feature Similarity Index Metric (FSIM), Normalized Correlation Coefficient (NCC), and fitness values, totally show that the ZOA outperforms all other algorithms based on Kapur's entropy for all the applied measures.
Prevalence and risk factors for suicide attempts in first-episode and drug-naïve middle-aged major depressive disorder patients with impaired fasting glucose
Authors: Wang Guanjun , Ji Yunxin , Wang Kuilai , Lang Xiaoe , Zhang Xiang-Yang
Published: February 2024

Background: Impaired fasting glucose (IFG) is prevalent among the middle-aged population. Recent studies have found an association between suicide attempts and abnormal glucose metabolism in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). However, there are fewer studies on suicide attempts in middle-aged MDD patients with comorbid IFG. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and risk of suicide attempts in first-episode, untreated middle-aged MDD patients with IFG.
Methods: A total of 830 middle-aged (35-60 years) patients with first-episode and drug-naïve(FEDN) MDD were included in the study. Among them, 119 patients comorbid abnormal glucose metabolism. Sociodemographic and clinical information, as well as depression, anxiety, and psychotic symptoms, were collected and evaluated. Blood glucose levels, lipid levels, and serum thyroid function were also measured. The predictors of suicide attempt risk of middle-aged FEND MDD patients were identified by binary logistic regression.
Results: Prevalence of suicide attempts in middle-aged MDD patients with IFG was 38.66% (46/119). Significant differences in disease duration, anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, psychiatric symptoms, blood pressure, anti-thyroglobulin(TGAb),thyroid peroxidases antibody(TPOAb), thyroid stimulating hormone(TSH), and total cholesterol (TC) were found in patients who attempted suicide as compared to those who did not. Furthermore, Hamilton anxiety rating scale(HAMA) score, TGAb and disease duration were predictors of suicide attempts in middle-aged MDD patients with comorbid IFG.
Conclusion: This study showed a high prevalence of suicide attempts in middle-aged MDD patients with comorbid IFG, and we had further identified HAMA, TGAb and disease duration as predictors of suicide attempts in MDD patients with IFG.
Utilization of Machine A Learning Algorithm in the Prediction of Rehospitalization During One-Year Post-Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Aly Salma , Chen Yuying , Ahmed Abdulaziz , Wen Huacong , Mehta Tapan
Published: February 2024

Study design: Retrospective cohort study
Objective: The primary aim was to develop a machine learning (ML) model to predict rehospitalization during the first year of traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) and to identify top predictors using data obtained during initial rehabilitation. The secondary aim was to predict prolonged hospital stay among the rehospitalized group.
Setting: Eighteen SCI Model Systems centers throughout the United States.
Methods: Data were retrieved from the National Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems Database. The participants were divided into 2 groups based on rehospitalization during first year of injury. Those who experienced rehospitalization during first year were further grouped into prolonged stay (> 75th quartile of total length of stay) or non-prolonged stay. Variables considered in models included socio-demographic factors, clinical characteristics, and comorbidities.
Results: The best performing classification models were Random Forest for predicting rehospitalization and Adaptive Boosting for prolonged stay. The most important predictors in both models were Functional Independence Measure (FIM) motor score, American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) scores, age, days from injury to rehabilitation admission and body mass index. Additionally, for prolonged stays, pressure injury as a reason of rehospitalization was top predictor.
Conclusion: The crucial role of factors such as FIM and ASIA scores emerge as pivotal predictors of both rehospitalizations and prolonged rehospitalizations, might guide clinicians in risk assessment. Furthermore, identification of pressure injury as primary predictor for prolonged stays signifies a targeted focus on preventive measures for pressure injury-related rehospitalizations, offering a specific strategy to enhance patient care and outcomes.
Chronic Stress Enhances Glycolysis and Promotes Tumorigenesis
Authors: Qin Qiufeng , Li Shuying , Zhong yixuan , Bai Jing , An Lin , Yang Lei , Gu Wei , Deng Di , Zhao Jinlan , Zhang Rong , Liu Haiquan , Bai Shasha
Published: February 2024

Depression is a well-known risk factor for tumors, but the mechanisms other than inflammation are unclear. Aerobic glycolysis is considered to be a critical element in the reprogramming of energy metabolism in malignant tumors, and impaired glycolysis has been reported in the brains of chronic stress mice. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the role of glycolysis in which depression promotes tumorigenesis. We examined the impacts of chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) on the growth and metastasis of breast cancer (BC) and lung cancer (LC). The findings showed that both CUMS and tumors induced depressive-like behavior, neuronal damage, and impaired synaptic plasticity in mice, while CUMS also enhanced tumor development and metastasis in both BC and LC. In the brain, both CUMS and tumor alone and in combination significantly reduced glycolytic products and enzyme levels. However, CUMS significantly enhanced the levels of aerobic glycolytic products and enzymes in tumor tissue. Collectively, our results provide insights into that down-regulated glycolysis in the brain, leading to depression-like behavior, and how depression, in turn, enhanced glycolysis and promoted tumorigenesis.
The causal relationship of asthma to sarcopenia revealed by Mendelian randomization analysis and meta-analysis
Authors: Xu Haizhu , Zhu Jiajia , Zhang Ruojing , Gou Haixin
Published: February 2024

Objectives:
Sarcopenia is age-related muscle loss that results in low hand grip strength, loss of muscle weight and a slow walking speed. Asthma is recognized as a risk factor forsarcopenia. In this study, Mendelian randomization (MR) research was utilized to detect the causal impact and association of asthma and sarcopenia.
Methods:
A bidirectional two-sample MR analysis and a related meta-analysis were performed. To avoid the influence of sporadic factors, 3 asthma datasets were employed as exposures. Three datasets related to sarcopenia were used as outcomes.
The inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method was set as the primary method,and other methods were set as auxiliary methods. Furthermore,these MR results were combined with those of a meta-analysis. The MR Egger method was employed to evaluate heterogeneity. Furthermore, a reverse-directional analysis was conducted to explore the causal impact of sarcopenia on asthma. Linkage disequilibrium score (LDSC) regression was utilized to explore genetic associations.
Results:
In the MR analysis of the relationship of asthma to sarcopenia, there was strong evidence of a causal effect of asthma on sarcopenia. The MR analysis of asthma to appendicular lean mass using the IVW method yielded a P value of 0.0047 when using the first dataset. The P value was 3.82E-06 for the second dataset and 1.32E-05 for the third. A P value of 0.0001 was obtained for the relationship of asthma to low hand grip strength using the IVW method with the first dataset, 4.08E-05 with the second and 2.86E-05 with the third. A Pvalue of 0.0425 was obtained for the relationship of asthma to walking speed using the IVW method with the first dataset, 4.23E-03 with the second and 4.23E-03 with the third. The meta-analysis combing 3 studies showed that there was a significant causal effect of asthma on appendicular lean mass (P<0.01), low hand grip strength (P<0.01), and walking speed (P<0.01). Reverse MR analysis suggested that sarcopenia exerted no causal effect onasthma. There was no pleiotropy in this MR study except for that in the reverse MR study. LDSC results suggested a weak genetic association.
Conclusion:
The MR study showed that asthma promotes the development of sarcopenia and is a significant risk factor forsarcopenia. However, a reverse causal effect does not exist.
Superolateral Capsule Portal: A New Arthroscopic Viewing Approach for Spotting Femoral Fixation Device in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Ding Ming , Liao BingHui , Shangguan Lei , Wang YingChun , Xu Hu
Published: February 2024

Background
this study aimed to describe the arthroscopic superlateral capsule portal technique for spotting femoral fixation device deployment, and to compare the results with normal procedure.
Methods: A total of 69 patients underwent ACLR (Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction) with or without the SCP (superolateral capsule portal) during procedure were retrospectively selected and evaluated. A total of 36 patients underwent SCP and 33 patients underwent ACLR without SCP. Mean follow-up was 6 months after surgery. All patient noted joint fluid, underwent VAS and Lysholm score at follow-up, and statistical analysis was performed.
Results: No statistically significant differences were found in patient demographics, ACLR duration time (p = 0.076) and Lysholm score (p = 0.296). Significantly less postoperation pain was reported in the SCP group(p = 0.000), and fluid volume in SCP group was significantly lower (p = 0.001). The postoperative complications were rare in both group.
Conclusions: The superolateral capsule portal approach is a minimally invasive and safe technique that can be used to accurately locate and implant suture button-based femoral fixation devices in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.
Genome-wide methylation profiling of Peripheral T-cell lymphomas identifies TRIP13 as a critical driver of tumor proliferation and survival
Authors: Nowialis Pawel , Tobon Julian , Lopusna Katarina , Opavska Jana , Badar Arshee , Chen Duo , Abdelghany Reem , Pozas Gene , Fingeret Jacob , Noel Emma , Riva Alberto , Fujiwara Hiroshi , Opavsky Rene
Published: February 2024

Cytosine methylation of genomic DNA contributes to the regulation of gene expression and is involved in normal development including hematopoiesis in mammals. It is catalyzed by the family of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) that include DNMT1, DNMT3A, and DNMT3B. Peripheral T-cell lymphomas (PTCLs) represent a diverse group of aggressive mature T-cell malignancies accounting for approximately 10–15% of non-Hodgkin lymphoma cases in the US. PTCLs exhibit a broad spectrum of clinical, histological, and immunophenotypic features with poor prognosis and inadequately understood molecular pathobiology. To better understand the molecular landscape and identify candidate genes involved in disease maintenance, we used high-resolution Whole Genome Bisulfite Sequencing (WGBS) and RNA-seq to profile DNA methylation and gene expression of PTCLs and normal T-cells. We found that the methylation patterns in PTCLs are deregulated and heterogeneous but share 767 hypo- and 567 hypermethylated differentially methylated regions (DMRs) along with 231 genes up- and 91 genes downregulated in all samples suggesting a potential association with tumor development. We further identified 39 hypomethylated promoters associated with increased gene expression in the majority of PTCLs. This putative oncogenic signature included the TRIP13 (thyroid hormone receptor interactor 13) gene whose both genetic and pharmacologic inactivation, inhibited cellular growth of PTCL cell lines by inducing G2-M arrest accompanied by apoptosis suggesting that such an approach might be beneficial in human lymphoma treatment. Altogether we show that human PTCLs are characterized by a large number of recurrent methylation alterations, and demonstrated that TRIP13 is critical for PTCL maintenance in vitro.
Oral health experience of patients in remission from an eating disorder
Authors: Gidlund Ulrica , Hasselblad Tove , Larsson-Gran Pernilla , von Hausswolff-Juhlin Yvonne , Dahllöf Göran
Published: February 2024

Background
Evidence on how persons in remission from an eating disorder experience their oral health is limited. Dental treatment in Sweden today is often postponed until medical rehabilitation has been completed, but this carries risks. For the patient, the risk is severely impaired oral health and additional suffering, and for both society and the patient, higher costs than might have been necessary.
Methods
Ten female informants (age 21–51 years; mean age = 36.7; standard deviation ± 12.7) in remission from an eating disorder (duration of illness: 4–25 years) were questioned in semi-structured interviews about their perceptions of oral health. All participants had been referred to a specialist dental clinic and needed oral rehabilitation. One patient had been diagnosed with anorexia nervosa and nine, bulimia nervosa. All had been in remission for at least 1 year. Transcripts of the interviews were analyzed with thematic analysis using an inductive approach.
Results
One overarching theme emerged from the analysis: dental damage persisted as “a visible, lingering scar” during remission of the eating disorder, reminiscent of the disease and its consequences. The three major themes identified were (1) Physical impact, (2) Psychological impact, and (3) Impact on daily living. The first major theme included erosive tooth wear and impaired oral function and aesthetics. Interviewees described the second as feelings of stigma, guilt, shame, anxiety, and worry, in particular concerning self-inflicted dental damage through self-induced vomiting. The last major theme covered avoidance strategies such as limiting smiling and laughing and minimizing social situations such as eating with others, pursuing a wanted career, and meeting a partner. Postponed dental rehabilitation led to anxiety and worry about future dental deterioration and inevitable extensive dental treatment and costs.
Conclusions
The participants in this study expressed a two-fold burden of stigma of having suffered from both an eating disorder and poor oral health. All participants expressed a profound negative impact on daily life caused by their poor oral health and their eating disorder.
Stochastic model predictive approach for seismic lateral displacement of geosynthetic- reinforced soil slopes based on Newmark's sliding block analysis
Authors: Ghanbari Ali , Nazari Reza A. , Sharafi Hassan
Published: February 2024

As a result of technological advances, geosynthetic reinforced soil (GRS) slopes have been constructed more frequently in recent decades, which have been used extensively in landslide stabilization, highway construction, and geological disaster prevention. A new formula was developed for predicting the probabilistic sliding displacement of GRS slopes in this paper. An example of a model based on numerical simulation (Slide) was illustrated to calculate seismic displacement based on three types of Newmark analysis. A synthetic dataset including 972 numerical simulations was generated for statistical analysis by data derived from real-time strong-ground motions of 30 worldwide earthquakes. An investigation into the relationship between reinforced slope properties and motion characteristics was performed using a parametric analysis. It was concluded that coupled analysis calculated higher values for earthquake-induced sliding displacement of GRS slope. Also, statistical analysis indicated that soil friction angle is more influential on sliding displacement than the other random variables. A cumulative distribution function was constructed for estimating probabilistic seismic displacement based on 5000 Latin-hypercube sampling.
Memory dependent magneto-thermoelastic interaction in a rotating medium based on refined multi-phase-lag model
Authors: De Amrita , Purkait Pallabi , Das Payel , Kanoria Mridula
Published: February 2024

This article deals with the problem of wave propagation in a two-dimensional rotating medium under the influence of magnetic field based on refined multi-phase-lag model of thermoelasticity theory with memory-dependent derivative. The classical thermoelasticity theory, Lord-Shulman theory, Green-Naghdi IItheory and simple phase lag theory may be established as special cases of the refined multi-phase-lag thermoelasticity theory. A non-Gaussian laser beam is used to heat the bounding plane surface. Laplace and Fourier transform techniques are used to generate analytical formulae for several physical quantities onthe transformed domain. Using MATHEMATICA 10, the inversion of double transform has been performed numerically. Zakian method is used for the numerical inversion of Laplace transform. In order to demonstrate the effect of rotation, magnetic field and different kernel functions on all the main quantities such as displacements,temperature and stresses, the quantities are computed numerically and presented graphically for Lord-Shulman model with memory dependent derivative.
Accurate Identification of Primary Site in Tumors of Unknown Origin (TUO) Using DNA Methylation
Authors: Santana-Santos Lucas , Duckett Drew , Vormittag-Nocito Erica , Jamshidi Pouya , Sukhanova Madina , Parker Stephanie , Brat Daniel , Jennings Lawrence
Published: February 2024

Tumors of unknown origin (TUO) generally result in poor patient survival and are clinically difficult to address. Identification of the site of origin in TUO patients is paramount to their improved treatment and survival but is difficult to obtain with current methods. Here, we develop a random forest machine learning TUO methylation classifier using a large number of primary and metastatic tumor samples. Our classifier achieves high accuracy in primary site identification when applied to both publicly available and internal validation samples, with 97% of samples classified correctly and 85% receiving high probability scores (≥ 0.9). Moreover, by employing pathologist expertise and unsupervised clustering, the TUO classifier can assign samples to 46 different site of origin/disease classes. This strategy also revealed multiple classes of yet unknown significance for future exploration. Overall, the presented TUO classifier represents a significant step forward in the diagnosis of TUO tumors.
Non-Coding RNAs Potentially Involved in Pyrethroid Resistance of Anopheles funestus Population in Western Kenya
Authors: Debrah Isaiah , Zhong Daibin , Machani Maxwell G. , Nattoh Godfrey , Ochwedo Kevin O. , Morang'a Collins M. , Lee Ming-Chieh , Amoah Linda E. , Githeko Andrew K. , Afrane Yaw A. , Yan Guiyun
Published: February 2024

Backgrounds
The resurgence of Anopheles funestus, a dominant vector of human malaria in western Kenya was partly attributed to insecticide resistance. However, evidence on the molecular basis of pyrethroid resistance in western Kenya is limited. Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) form a vast class of RNAs that do not code for proteins and are ubiquitous in the insect genome. Here, we demonstrated that multiple ncRNAs could play a potential role in An. funestusresistance to pyrethroid in western Kenya.
Materials and Methods
Anopheles funestus mosquitoes were sampled by aspiration methods in Bungoma, Teso, Siaya, Port Victoria and Kombewa in western Kenya. The F1 progenies were exposed to deltamethrin (0.05%), permethrin (0.75%), DDT (4%) and pirimiphos-methyl (0.25%) following WHO test guidelines. A synergist assay using piperonyl butoxide (PBO) (4%) was conducted to determine cytochrome P450s' role in pyrethroid resistance. RNA-seq was conducted on a combined pool of specimens that were resistant and unexposed, and the results were compared with those of the FANG susceptible strain. This approach aimed to uncover the molecular mechanisms underlying pyrethroid resistance.
Results
Pyrethroid resistance was observed in all the sites with an average mortality rate of 57.6%. Port Victoria had the highest level of resistance to permethrin (MR=53%) and deltamethrin (MR=11%) pyrethroids. Teso had the lowest level of resistance to permethrin (MR=70%) and deltamethrin (MR=87%). Resistance to DDT was observed only in Kombewa (MR=89%) and Port Victoria (MR=85%). A full susceptibility to P-methyl (0.25%) was observed in all the sites. PBO synergist assay revealed high susceptibility (>98%) to the pyrethroids in all the sites except for Port Victoria (MR=96%, n=100). Whole transcriptomic analysis showed that most of the gene families associated with pyrethroid resistance comprised non-coding RNAs (67%), followed by imipenemase (10%),cytochrome P450s (6%), cuticular proteins (5%), olfactory proteins (4%), glutathione S-transferases (3%), UDP-glycosyltransferases (2%), ATP-binding cassettes (2%) and carboxylesterases(1%).
Conclusions
This study unveils the molecular basis of insecticide resistance in An. funestus in western Kenya, highlighting for the first time the potential role of non-coding RNAs in pyrethroid resistance. Targeting non-coding RNAs for intervention development could help in insecticide resistance management.
Benefits of transitioning from transperitoneal laparoscopic to retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy – a single center experience
Authors: Feka Joy , Soliman Barbara , Arikan Melisa , Sacher Magdalena , Binter Teresa , Hargitai Lindsay , Scheuba Christian , Riss Philipp
Published: February 2024

Background
Since 2017, switching from lateral transperitoneal laparoscopic (LTA), posterior retroperitoneoscopic adrenalectomy (RPA) is used as standard procedure in this institution. Aim of this study was to compare both techniques regarding operative time, length of stay and safety of the procedures.
Methods
All patients operated in our institution for adrenal tumors were prospectively documented in the EUROCRINE-database and retrospectively analyzed. Sex, age, body mass index (BMI), indication, operative time, conversion and complication rates, hospital stay and tumor-size were analyzed.
Results
105 RPAs and 132 LTAs were performed in an 8-year period. No difference was seen in age, sex and tumor localization. Adenoma (n = 113) and pheochromocytoma (n = 64) were the most common histopathological findings. Compared to the LTA group, the RPA group had significantly shorter operative time with a median of 50 minutes (15–380) vs. 125 minutes (25–420) (p < 0.001) and shorter hospital stay with a median of 3 vs. 9 days (p < 0.001). The decrease of the median operative time in RPA group, visualizing the learning curve of the procedure, was from 60 minutes (2017) to 45 minutes (2020). 4 conversions from RPA to open adrenalectomy had to be performed due to bleeding or adhesions, whereas 9 LTA procedures had to be converted due to bleeding(n = 2), unclear anatomy (n = 1), adhesions (n = 1), difficult access (n = 1) or planned conversion (n = 4).
Conclusion
RPA could be safely introduced with reduced operative times and shorter length of hospital stay compared to LTA.
Interplay between disorder and electronic correlations in compositionally complex alloys
Authors: Minar Jan , Redka David , Khan Saleem , Martino Edoardo , Mettan Xavier , Ciric Luka , Tolj Davor , Ivšić Trpimir , Held Andreas , Caputo Marco , Strocov Vladimir , Marco Igor , Ebert Hubert , Huber Heinz , Dil Hugo , Forró László
Published: February 2024

Exploring the intricate interplay between disorder and correlations in compositionally complex alloys, our study employs resonant and valence band photoemission, optical conductivity, and electrical resistivity, complemented by density functional theory-based linear response calculations. By applying dynamical mean-field theory, we identify correlation signatures and damping in spectra, emphasizing the significance of many-body effects, especially in states far from the Fermi edge. Electronic transport remains dominated by chemical and magnetic disorder. Our results advance understanding of element specific electronic correlations in CrMnFeCoNi, elucidating the complex physical nature of compositionally complex alloys.
Detection of congenital heart disease by neonatologist performed cardiac ultrasound in extreme preterm infants
Authors: MacDonald Bradley , Yim Deane , Ramsay James , Gill Andrew
Published: February 2024

Purpose
We aimed to assess the frequency and accuracy of neonatologist-performed cardiac ultrasound (NPCU) in detecting de novo congenital heart disease (CHD) in premature infants born at < 30 weeks of gestation.
Methods
This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on all NPCU studies performed at a tertiary-level neonatal department from January 2004 to June 2023. Clinicians completing the NPCU identified de novo suspected CHD at the time of the scan. All NPCUs were cross-checked with cardiology databases to confirm the final CHD diagnosis.
Results
A total of 3739 infants < 30 weeks’ gestation were admitted during the review period, 2088 (56%) of which received at least one NPCU; 294 (14%) were referred to pediatric cardiology and received an echocardiogram. CHD was confirmed in 109 of 2088 (5.2%) babies, 3 (3%) had critical disease, 8 (7%) had major cardiac anomalies, and 53 (49%) had non-major flagged CHD. No major or critical CHD was missed by the NPCU in the cohort.
Conclusion
De novo presentation of significant CHD still occurs in the preterm population and needs to be recognized by those performing NPCU. Ongoing training and collaboration with cardiology to optimize NPCU may provide benefits in the early referral and diagnosis of CHD.
Organizational learning capabilities, institutional knowledge, and FTA utilization of exporting SMEs in South Korea
Authors: Song Joon-Heon , Lee Kyoung-Joo
Published: February 2024

The formation and transformation of international trade institutions have significant implications for the competitiveness of firms, and the adept utilization of free trade agreements (FTAs) represents a critical leverage point for exporting firms. Despite the business opportunities provided by FTAs, some firms take advantage of institutional benefits while others fail to do so. To explain these differences, this research conceptualizes institutional knowledge (IK) in the context of FTAs as a key organizational condition to gain competitive advantages. This study proposes a research model in which IK has a positive effect on FTA utilization, and organizational learning capabilities (OLC) positively affect SMEs’ IK. Based on a survey of exporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the agricultural and food sectors in South Korea, this study not only shows IK’s positive impact on FTA utilization by SMEs but also identifies OLC as an essential precursor to robust IK. This study fills a notable gap in international business research by underscoring the importance of IK in enhancing SMEs’ competitiveness internationally and offers fresh insights into the role played by OLC in enhancing IK to facilitate FTA utilization.
JEL Classification: F14, F23, M16
Challenges and innovations in the surgical treatment of advanced Dupuytren’s disease by percutaneous needle fasciotomy: indications, limitations, and medico-legal implications
Authors: Basile Giuseppe , Amadei Federico , Prevot Luca Bianco , Tronconi Livio Pietro , Ciccarelli Antonello , Bolcato Vittorio , Zaami Simona
Published: February 2024

Background
Dupuytren's disease, a chronic thickening and retraction of the palmar aponeurosis of the hands, may result in permanent and progressive flexion of one or more fingers. Percutaneous needle fasciotomy is a simple method that uses a hypodermic needle usually performed under local anaesthesia. The study aim was to report the postoperative results and complications using a percutaneous approach to treat Dupuytren's contracture in a consecutive series of patients with advanced Dupuytren’s disease, also considering the relevant medico-legal implications.
Methods
Retrospective multicentre study of all patients with Tubiana stage 3–4 Dupuytren's contracture treated with percutaneous needle aponeurotomy from 2012 to 2022. Patient demographics, disease severity, treatment-related complications, and the incidence of recurrence were identified. An overview of therapeutic treatment options has accounted for 52 relevant sources spanning the 2007–2023 time period.
Results
Overall, 41.7% (N = 200 ) of patients were females, the mean age was 72 years (60–89), the right hand was treated in 54.2% (N = 260 ) of patients. The little finger was involved in 50% of the patients. The 12 months mean PED was 9°, the mean quickDASH was 8, the mean URAM 6. Minor complications were reported in 18.7% (N = 90) of patients, typically skin lacerations (83.3%) with no clinical sequelae, and no major complications were reported. Recurrence occurred in 30% (N = 144) of patients.
Conclusions
Percutaneous needle fasciotomy is safe and reliable even in patients with advanced Dupuytren's disease, resulting in predictably acceptable outcome with low risk of complications.
Performance Evaluation of Recycled Coarse Aggregate Based Laterized Concretes
Authors: N Basavana Gowda S , C Rajasekaran , Yaragal Subhash C. , Hiremath Parameshwar
Published: February 2024

In response to the pressing need to accommodate the rapidly growing global population, there has been a significant depletion of natural aggregates worldwide in recent years. The unregulated extraction of river sand from river belts has caused irreversible harm to ecosystems, including the potential elimination of local species. To ensure sustainable concrete construction, it is imperative to explore feasible alternatives to traditional building materials. By addressing the dual objectives of protecting the environment, which include the preservation of natural resources and the proper disposal of Construction and Demolition (C&D) waste, the essential objective is to increase the viability and inevitableness of recycling. It leads to energy saving in optimizing the shipment of natural aggregate to user sites and also economic factors constitute yet another incentive for recycling concrete waste. In the present study, the potential use of recycled coarse aggregates as a substitute to conventional granite coarse aggregates along with lateritic FA as fine aggregates in producing concretes is investigated. Examined is the apparent effect of RCA on the functionality of laterized concretes. The mechanical characteristics of concretes with various ratios of RCA and lateritic FA combinations are thoroughly investigated. An appropriate methodology is used to lessen the strength loss caused by the addition of recycled concrete aggregates (RCA) to concrete. The mechanical characteristics of concrete mixtures containing RCA and laterite have been shown to be comparable to those of conventional concrete. Durability property was assessed through RCPT test and RCA based laterized concretes showed promising results. Microstructure studies using a Scanning Electron Microscope validate the enrichment of compactness in the laterite-modified recycled aggregate concrete.
Rainwater harvest with desert-sand brick: an adaptive strategy in water resources management to climate change
Authors: Xu Xiangzhou , Liu Mingyang , Gao Hang , Xiao Peiqing , Zhang Yu
Published: February 2024

Urbanization causes many changes to the hydrological cycle, including radiation flux, precipitation amount, water evaporation and evapotranspiration, and soil infiltration. This study presents an adaptive strategy that aims to achieve efficient use of rainwater and realize sustainable development in the urban area by using desert sand. The permeable brick is made of desert sand, of which compressive strength is intensive, water permeability is high, and fabrication cost is low. Two water-permeable holes are included in the brick which is convenient for rainwater infiltration and maintenance of the permeable pavement. Experimental results show that the mean and maximum compressive strengths of the desert-sand bricks are 69.6 and 102.8 Mpa, which are 2.3 and 3.4 times of the strength required by the standard JC/T 945–2005, respectively. The fabrication cost of the water-permeable brick designed by the authors is only 12 US dollars/m2, which is much lower than that of the sand-based permeable bricks that already exist in the market. Hence, the kind of permeable brick can render substantial economic benefits and ecological improvements.
Clinical features and treatment of methylmalonic acidemia complicated with Dandy-Walker continuum: a report of 4 cases and review of literature
Authors: Wang Weiping , Zhou Yabing , Jiang Feng , Wei Jia , Feng Jiaqi , Mao Weiwei , Wang Xiaoqiang
Published: February 2024

Purpose
The clinical characteristics and treatment of the rare methylmalonic academia (MMA) with Dandy-Walker continuum (DWC) are still unclear. The purpose of this paper is to provide novel insights into the rare pediatric disease.
Methods
The database of MMA cases from pediatric intensive care unit of our hospital from 2006 to 2021 was chosen, from which cases combined with DWC were selected. The characteristics of onset age, clinical manifestations, gene types, treatment and prognosis of these cases were analyzed. The diagnosis of MMA was confirmed by blood and urine tandem mass spectrometry while the diagnosis of DWC was confirmed by cranial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Follow-ups were performed by means of telephone inquiry or outpatient visit.
Results
A total of 198 children with MMA were screened, 4 of whom were complicated with DWC including 3 males and 1 female. The average age of onset was 38 days (range 4–60 days). Vomiting (3/4) was the most obvious symptom. The head circumference was small in 2 cases while normal in the rest. The blood homocysteine was 130.8-187.3 umol/L, and the urine MMA was 24.5-236.1 mmol/mol·creatinine. Blood C3 and C3/C2 levels were significantly increased in 4 children. MRI showed that the cerebellar vermis was dysplastic, and cystic dilatation of the fourth ventricle caused upward displacement of the tentorium and sinuses. All the 4 children were treated with drugs and special milk powder for the primary disease. Case 3 suffered from acute intracranial pressure (ICP) increase during hospitalization, resulting in respiratory and circulatory failure, and was treated with dehydration, lowering ICP and ventilator-assisted ventilation. However, these measures had minimum effect, and the patient died of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome 27 days after admission. In case 1, 2, and 4, ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) was performed for the increased ICP. Case 1 died of respiratory failure 10 months after the operation, while case 2 died of severe pneumonia 96 months after the operation. Unlike the others, case 4 remained stable condition at the last follow-up of 32 months.
Conclusions
Concomitant DWC may be a clinical manifestation type of MMA, with early onset and severe conditions. The onset of increased ICP can often be seen. Head circumference can be in normal limits, and they can be manifested as hydrocephalus. VPS should be actively performed to treat hydrocephalus, relieve elevated ICP and improve the prognosis.
Interpretable AI/ML for High-stakes Tasks with Human-in-the-loop: Critical Review and Future Trends
Authors: Kovalerchuk Boris
Published: February 2024

Domains with high-stakes tasks include medical diagnosis, financial decision-making, autonomous vehicles, criminal justice, disaster response, search and rescue operations, and others. In high-stakes tasks the effects of incorrect decisions or predictions can cause significant harm to individuals or society. This paper presents (1) major topics of research in interpretable AI/ML models for high-stakes tasks with human-in-the-loop, and (2) motivates and explains topics of emerging importance in this area. It is widely accepted that model explanations should accurately describe the model’s inner decision making and be convincing to the user. However, quite often these properties are missing. revealing only a quasi-explanation of the model, thus not serving the goal of true model explanation. This paper presents both benefits and deficiencies of current methods and ways to overcome deficiencies with a focus on high-stakes AI/ML tasks, where incorrect decisions or predictions can result in devastating consequences. While a human-in-the-loop is necessary for solving explainability problems, the success heavily depends on human cognitive abilities and limitations. This makes human visual knowledge discovery with granular computing critical for the progress of interpretable machine learning. Therefore, a significant part of the paper is devoted to presenting interpretable ML models built with human visual knowledge discovery methods.
First metagenomic sequencing for the analysis of microbial community population of Melophagus ovinus and pupae in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Huang Kaijun , Zhang Xing , Feng Qian , Sun Lu , Xiong Na , Zhao Xiaoqing , Zhou Kun , Wu Junyuan
Published: February 2024

Background
Melophagus ovinus, a parasite on the body surface of sheep, directly attacks the host through biting and sucking blood and may also transmit pathogens in the process. There are currently only a few studies on the microbial composition of M. ovinus, while there are no such studies on pupae.
Methods
M. ovinus adults and pupae were collected from four regions in Xinjiang, China. DNA was extracted from the samples, amplified, and sequenced using the Illumina Novaseq 6000 System; finally, the sequencing data were analyzed using molecular biology software.
Results
From all samples, a total of 32 phyla, comprising 372 genera and 1037 species, were detected. The highest microbial diversity was observed in Kuqa City (AT-2) and Qira County (AT-4). Pupae exhibited 40 unique microbial genera (AT-5) but did not have the highest microbial diversity.
Conclusions
Proteobacteria was the dominant phylum in all samples. The dominant genera included Bartonella, Wolbachia, Pseudomonas, and Arsenophonus. This is the first study to report most of the bacteria (e.g., Bartonella bovis and Arsenophonus nasoniae), fungi (e.g., Saitoella complicata), viruses (e.g., Orf virus and Wolbachia phage WO), and protozoa (e.g., Trypanosoma theileri and Trichomonas vaginalis) in M. ovinus.
Decoding Early-Onset of Colorectal Cancer: Insights into SERPINA3 Expression Patterns
Authors: Soman Anjana , Pradhan Tapas , R Krishna , Hermon Evangeline Surya , Somanathan Thara , G Jinto E , George Gejoe , Pothuraju Ramesh , Nair S. Asha
Published: February 2024

Early-onset colorectal cancer(EOCRC), recognized as a distinct subgroup with an increased incidence over the past two decades, characterized by its aggressive nature and potentially unique molecular factors that differentiate it from traditional colorectal cancer(CRC). In this study, we investigated differentially expressed genes in a young-CRC patient using paired-end mRNA-sequencing. Validation of target genes through qRT-PCR highlighted a significant increase in SERPINA3 levels in EOCRC, representing a novel finding. Epithelial expression of SERPINA3 demonstrated a strong association with disease progression, whereas stromal expression showed a negative correlation. Our findings reveal the distinct expression patterns and potential involvement of SERPINA3 in both the initiation and progression of CRC, suggesting that SERPINA3 could serve as a marker for distinguishing early-onset from late-onset cases.
Determination of Selected Toxic Heavy Metals and Analysis of Proximate Composition in White Sugar Manufactured from the Omo Kuraz Sugar Factory in Ethiopia
Authors: Bekele Endalkachew Etana
Published: February 2024

The aim of this study was to determine the concentration level of selected toxic heavy metals and analyze proximate parameters in white sugar products collected from Omo Kuraz sugar factory in Ethiopia. The white sugar samples were extracted by using single drop microextraction (SDME) prior to toxic heavy metal analysis by Atomic Absorption spectroscopy (AAS) following optimized extraction procedures. The results of protein, fat, fiber, moisture, total solid, ash and carbohydrate were found to be 1.07–1.57, 1.25–2.08, 0.132–0.281, 0.184–0.750, 99.3–99.8, 3.00- 4.66 and 91.7–93.2%, respectively. The average concentration of toxic heavy metals found in all white sugar samples were ranged as 0.217–0.617 and 0.054–0.508 mg/kg for Cd and Pb, respectively. The contribution of toxic elements Cd and Pb to the overall intake from the analyzed white sugar samples were below FAO/WHO recommended limit. Based on the current results, keeping close watch on these contaminants is recommended in order to guide consumers against the health risks associated with these toxic metals.