bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design, Heat Leakage Analysis and Stirling Cryocooler Option of
Stirling-type Lyophilizer
Authors: Feng Yinglong , Zhang Ankuo
Published: February 2024

Background:

Based on referring to the relevant patents, it was found that the traditional
lyophilizer refrigeration system has the disadvantages of large volume and high power consumption.
Meanwhile, considering the context of advocating low carbon emission and environmental protection,
the use of energy-saving refrigeration technology and the use of non-fluorine and harmless refrigerants
are the trends of future development.

Objective:

In order to solve the traditional lyophilizer problems and enhance the lyophilizer reliability,
the paper designs a Stirling-type lyophilizer with a working temperature of -70°C.

Methods:

Stirling cooling has the advantages of ultra-low refrigeration temperature and high cooling
speed. Based on the above advantages, combining the characteristics of the lyophilization box, a Stirling-
type lyophilizer with a capacity of 0.120 m3 and a shelf area of 0.4 m2 is designed. The Stirlingtype
lyophilizer refrigeration system structure is analyzed. The flat plate heat pipe to transfer the cold
is used. The rigid polyurethane as the insulation material of the lyophilization box is studied. The heat
leakage calculation method of the lyophilization box is given.

Results:

Stirling cryocooler is selected based on the lyophilization box heat leakage. The experimental
test of the Stirling cryocooler is conducted. The feasibility of the design is verified. The Stirling
cryocooler, with a charging pressure of 2.9 MPa and an operating frequency of 68 Hz, could
achieve -87.057°C within 24 min. The lowest refrigeration temperature could be maintained at -
100.286°C after 97 min. The cooling capacity obtained is 40.0 W at an input power of 99.2 W, and
the COP is 0.403.

Conclusion:

Stirling refrigeration technology is suitable for use in lyophilizer and Stirling refrigeration
technology improves the robustness of the lyophilizer refrigeration system.
Intelligent Control of the Dynamic Voltage Restorer for Fault Ride through Capability Enhancement of a Grid-connected Photovoltaic Power Plant in accordance with Recent Moroccan Grid Code
Authors: Saad Sarih , Zakaria Boulghasoul , Abdelhadi Elbacha , Abdelouahed Tajer , Samira Chabaa
Published: February 2024

Background:

The recent development of small-scale, decentralized generation from
renewable sources and the fall in the price of the equipment needed for this operation have given a
new role to the distribution networks, which is to collect the energy produced by the smallest generation
plants and deliver it to the end customers. However, the national Grid Codes present technical
requirements in terms of FRT and particularly LVRT and HVRT which are imposed on PV
plants connected to medium voltage distribution networks, to ensure the energy needed by the
loads connected to the network at the time of the failure and especially sensitive ones.

Methods::

In this paper, an intelligent neural network approach is applied to the DVR control circuit
to enable the requirements of the sensitive load connected near the PCC, and the system is
tested in the presence of a non-linear load to demonstrate its efficiency for all situations. The proposed
strategy is based on the implementation of an improved ANFIS and ANN control which are
compared to a tuned PI controller, the approach intends to meet the technical requirement of the
recently approved Grid Code in Morocco. The simulation is performed using MATLAB Simulink.

Results:

The proposed approach brings great improvement to the load side voltage waveforms,
and numerical experiment findings demonstrate that it can successfully guarantee the technical
requirements of the electrical grid code.

Conclusion:

The results obtained show better behavior of the system using ANFIS and ANN control
strategy in the presence of a nonlinear load and a significant improvement of the voltage
THD.
Graph Entropy for Adjacently and Non-Adjacently Configured Pentagonal
Structure of Carbon Nanocones
Authors: Alsinai Ammar , Xavier D. Antony , Baby Annmaria , Varghese Eddith Sarah , Ahmed Hanan
Published: February 2024

aims:

Carbon nanocones possess exceptional properties compared to other nanomaterials, such as nanotubes, graphene etc. Hence they can be used as an alternative to other nanostructures.
This work helps in determining various properties of the nanocone structure through topological descriptors. In this paper, various degree based topological descriptors along with its entropy measures are evaluated for adjacently and non-adjacently configured pentagonal structure of carbon nanocones.

background:

Carbon nanoparticles are gaining much importance in the contemporary world. Among which carbon nanocones have wide range of acceptance in the field of nanotechnology due to its effective properties and applications. Nanocones, also known as nanohorns are carbon networks which are planar in structure and has majority of hexagonal faces along with some nonhexagonal faces, which are most commonly pentagons. Nanocones which include pentagons in their structure can be referred to as adjacently or non- adjacently configured pentagonal structure of nanocones. Various topological descriptors for few nanocone classes were derived by researchers earlier, but not for the class of nanocones in this paper. Through this work, we try to vanish the research gap in this field.

objective:

: The degree based descriptors and corresponding graph entropies for the adjacently and non-adjacently configured pentagonal structure of nanocones were determined, which further can be applied in quantitative structure – activity – property relationship studies. The concept of graph entropy is to assign a probability function to the edges in the chemical graph using the topological descriptor and it helps to characterise the complexity of graphs.

method:

We have employed the degree counting method and edge partition based on the vertices and edges of the adjacently and non-adjacently configured pentagonal nanocone structures to obtain the edge partitions and then using the corresponding mathematical expression, the degree based descriptors and its corresponding entropies were determined.

result:

Result: The analytically closed formulas to compute the degree based topological descriptors and graph entropies for any generation of the class of nanocone structures were obtained.

conclusion:

In this work, the degree based descriptors and the corresponding graph entropies for the adjacently and non-adjacently configured pentagonal structure of carbon nanocones are determined applying the degree counting method and edge partition based on the vertices and edges. Also a graphical comparative study was also done with the help of obtained results.

other:

end.
Recent Advancement on Polyamide Composites as an Alloplastic Alternative in 3D Printing for Craniofacial Reconstruction
Authors: Abdullah Abdul Manaf , Omar Marzuki , Mohamad Dasmawati
Published: February 2024

Polymer-based biomaterials are a material of choice for many surgeons due
to their availability and durability. Many types are available on the market, but the
search for improved properties to cater to technology demands, such as 3D printing,
continues. Polyamide, to be used as an alternative in craniofacial reconstruction, has
been a subject of interest recently. This chapter explores the physical and mechanical
properties of polyamide composites fabricated viainjection moulding and 3D printing
techniques along with their biocompatibility. With promising physical, mechanical, and
biocompatibility properties, polyamide composites are expected to emerge as an
alternative biomaterial for craniofacial reconstruction soon.
Cell Sheet Technology for Tendon and Ligament Tissue Engineering
Authors: Lee Lim Wei , Rashidbenam Zahra , Chia Yeo Genieve Ee , Hwei Ng Min , Xian Law Jia
Published: February 2024

Tendon and ligament injuries are very common and affect many people
worldwide. Tendon and ligament injuries may cause serious morbidity to the patients
as these tissues play a very important role in body mobility. Cell sheet technology is
one of the new tissue engineering approaches introduced to promote tendon and
ligament repair. Cell sheets for tendon and ligament repair are commonly prepared
using mesenchymal stem cells and tendon/ligament-derived stem cells. Due to their
poor mechanical properties, cell sheets are used to wrap around the ligated
tendon/ligament, the graft, and the engineered tendon/ligament to hasten tissue
regeneration. To date, the application of cell sheet technology in tendon and ligament
repair is still at an early stage. However, results from the preclinical studies are
promising. Generally, cell sheets were found to hasten tendon and ligament healing,
promote graft integration at the tendon-bone interface, and improve the mechanical
strength of the healed tissues. More studies, especially the randomised clinical trials,
are needed in the future to validate the efficacy of cell sheets in tendon and ligament
repair.
Scaffolds in Vascular Tissue Engineering Research
Authors: Heng Jun W. , Vijakumaran Ubashini , Man Rohaina C. , Sulaiman Nadiah
Published: February 2024

Scaffolds represent one of the key components in the tissue engineering
triad. Construction of a vascular graft begins with the scaffold that acts as the base
building material. Whether natural or synthetic, selecting the right scaffold material is
essential to ensure the structural integrity of a graft. The structural integrity could
further be strengthened with the addition of cells and regulatory signals that make up
the whole tissue engineering triad. In this chapter, a selection of scaffold materials is
discussed, and cell seeding strategies are later elaborated, covering the principle of the
tissue engineering triad in vascular research.
Biomaterials and Their Applications for Bone Regeneration
Authors: Mohamed Norazlina
Published: February 2024

Bones are the hardest tissue in the human body, but they may also sustain
injuries when stressed. The most common injury that can occur to bone is fractures.
Bones are unique in that they can heal themselves. However, failure of healing may
occur if the bone defect is large. The healing process that occurred may not be perfect;
nonunion and scar formation may occur, which eventually impair the function of the
bone. The elderly is prone to the incidence of falling, which may cause bone fractures.
This age group of individuals, especially women who are experiencing menopause, will
face delays in fracture healing. This will ultimately affect the quality of life of these
individuals. This situation has led researchers to venture into bone engineering or bone
regeneration in order to facilitate bone healing and induce new bone formation which
can restore bone function. Bone regeneration involves the usage of the bone scaffold as
a starting point for new bone formation. The scaffolds must have specific
characteristics to allow new bone growth without causing adverse effects on the
surrounding tissue. This chapter discusses the biomaterials that can be used in
developing scaffolds for use in bone regeneration. Their characteristics (advantages and
disadvantages) and modifications of the scaffold to enhance their performance are also
highlighted. Their usage as a drug delivery system is also described.
3D-Scaffold Design of Biodegradable Nanofibers for Tissue Regeneration and Drug Delivery
Authors: Wan Abdul Khodir Wan Kartini binti , Reusmaazran bin Yusof Mohd
Published: February 2024

Materials with specific properties and structures are required for 3D
nanofibers scaffold to perform well during tissue regeneration and drug delivery
applications. When designing and fabricating 3D scaffolds, it is crucial to consider how
the biomaterials interact with the native tissue structures and how they function in the
surrounding environment. This chapter provided a brief discussion on the fabrication
methods used to construct 3D biodegradable polymeric nanofibers scaffolds through
electrospinning from 2D structures. Further, it extended to the characterisation required
for the scaffold to be used in either tissue engineering or drug delivery. Additionally,
this chapter presented recent progress in the practical application of 3D scaffolds that
incorporate different therapeutic agents.
Rapid Prototyping in Biomedical Applications: Advanced Scopes, Capabilities and Challenges
Authors: Jabed Akib , Rahman Maliha , Enamul Hoque Md
Published: February 2024

Rapid prototyping (RP) is an advanced technique of fabricating a physical
model, or complex assembly where computer-aided design (CAD) plays a significant
role. The RP technique offers numerous advantages including providing information
such as how a product will look like and/or perform, and in the first stage of the design
and manufacturing cycle, allowing switches and improvements to be implemented
earlier in the system. It acts quickly and reduces the risk of later/final stage costly
errors. RP is considered to be an automated and cost-effective technique as it does not
require special tools, involves minimal intervention of the operator, and minimizes
material wastage. Different types of RP techniques are now commercially available and
serving accordingly in many fields. By using rapid prototyping, engineers can produce
and/or upgrade medical instruments that include surgical fasteners, scalpels, retractors,
display systems, and so on. Tablets having a sustained drug release capability are also
being manufactured by RP. Rehabilitation engineering also uses RP including the
fabrication of biomedical implants and prostheses and craniofacial and maxillofacial
surgeries. This chapter aims to provide an overview of rapid prototyping technology
and various RP machines available commercially. This chapter also includes the
applications of the RP technique in biomedical engineering focusing on the advanced
scopes, capabilities, and challenges in the upcoming days.
Cells in Vascular Tissue Engineering Research
Authors: Vijakumaran Ubashini , Atiqah Haron Nur , Wei Heng J. , Fikeri Ishak Mohamad , Sulaiman Nadiah
Published: February 2024

Fabrication of off-the-shelf small diameter vascular graft as an alternative to
current autologous graft in clinical setting i.e., internal mammary artery and saphenous
veins has yet to be perfected. With cardiovascular diseases (CVD) topping the list of
the causes of death worldwide, alternative vascular graft is especially crucial in patients
with a lack of autologous grafts. Successful re-vascularisation could substantially lower
the progression of CVD and mortality rate. This chapter delves into cells that are vital
in developing a tissue engineered vascular graft (TEVG), ranging from the native tissue
on the vascular bed to the potential cells that could be utilized, compounds that
possibly could improve the available grafts and stents and future TEVG design.
Ekal Dravya Prayoga in Vyanga w.r.t. Melasma
Authors: Ramandeep Kaur  , Goyal Ankita , Navdeep Kaur  , Gurpreet Sama
Published: February 2024

Skin (Tvaka) is the general covering of the entire external surface of the body. It is the largest organ of the body both by surface area and weight. Glowing Skin on the face gives self-confidence. Vyanga has become a major problem of the society. Many people are suffering from Vyanga today. The disease Vyanga (chloasma) is considered as a ‘Kshudraroga’ by most Acharyas. Acharya Charak considered Vyanga as a Rakta Pradoshaja Vyadhi. The treatment for melasma in Ayurveda is devoid of side effects it is very effective and it promises to stop the recurrence. The detailed description of its Hetu (causative factors), Samprapti (prognosis), the Chikitsa (local and internal) is given in Ayurved Samhitas. Vyanga can be correlated with Melasma in modern science. It is an acquired pigmentary condition, occurring most commonly on the face. This disorder is predominantly attributed to ultraviolet (UV) exposure and hormonal influences. Methods: To compile all the references of Ekal Dravya Prayog in Vyanga Rog mentioned in Ayurveda texts. Conclusion: After collecting all the data from different Samhitas we can have multiple Ekal Drvaya which will further be used according to the Prakriti of the patient.
Role of Sattwavajay Chikitsa in the management of stress disorders with special reference to Unmada
Authors: Janhabi Suna  , Prakash Kumar Naik  , Dipak Swain
Published: February 2024

Stress disorder are due to both stress and strain. Stress can be defined as a state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation. Stress is a natural human response that prompts us to address challenges and threats in our lives. Everyone experiences stress to some degree. The prevalence of stress in the general population is 29.6%. Sattwavajaya Chikitsa described by Acharya Charaka is nothing but withdrawal of mind from unwholesome objects. It also includes methods mentioned under Adravyabhuta Chikitsa.
Efficacy of Mruttika Lepa (Mud-Pack) in Yuvan-Pidika (Acne-Vulgaris) - A Case Study
Authors: Priyanka Dhurwey  , Nitin Marwaha  , Trupti Jain  , Saloni Soni
Published: February 2024

Today, every person, whether young or old wants to look attractive and flawless skin. Acne vulgaris is a follicular disorder affecting susceptible pilosebaceous follicles primarily of the face, neck and upper trunk. Characterized by comedones, papules, nodules and cysts. Acharya Sushruta was the first and foremost who described Yuvan-Pidika disease under the heading of “Kshudra Roga” According to Acharya Sushrut Yuvan-Pidika is caused by vitiation of Kapha, Vata and Rakta. Characterized by Shalmali thorn like eruptions, Kandu, Shoola, Ghana, Medogarbha, Daha, Strava, Vivarnata. In Naturopathy, Mud therapy is a famous and cost-effective treatment modality. Mud is capable of absorbing toxins from the body also useful for prevention and treatment of many diseases. Acharya Sushrut has defined anti-toxic effect of black soil. It is indicated as Lepa in Shotha, Arunshika, and mainly in Kapha, Pitta, Raktaj Vikara. This case study is of a 17 years old female patient who came to hospital complaining of eruptions over her face with mild pain since 11 months. The patient was given a mud pack to apply on the face for the period of 45 days daily in the morning. Patient was successfully treated without any complication within 45 days proving it is a safe, simple and cheap method in Yuvan Pidika.
Standardization of the preparation of a herbo-mineral formulation Shwasakasari Rasa
Authors: Neelam Malviya  , Anil Nagle  , R.K. Pati
Published: February 2024

Shwasakasari Rasa is mentioned in Rasa Yoga Sagar,[1] (part 2) as a remedy of Shwasa & Kaasa Roga. This type of Rasa Aushadhi are more effective against bacteria. These drugs have a multi dimension effect like Broad-spectrum antibiotics. In this study an endeavor has been made to determine standard procedure for preparation of the research formulation i.e. Shwasakasari Rasa. SOPs (Standard Operating Procedure) for pharmaceuticals are associated with quality assurance, internal control, production maintenance, utility and human resources or also defined as established or prescribed methods to be strictly followed for the preparation of particular formulations by a selected method. In this section of the research study all the processes adapted for the preparation of Shwasakasari Rasa are well elaborated with explicit detail of quantity, duration, heating pattern, temperature, material & methods together with timely observed and recorded values. Therefore, Shwasakasari Rasa was prepared in the department & analyse all contents present in Rasa Aushadhi for the establishment of drug for the benefit of society and mankind.
The Effectiveness of a Telenutrition Intervention to Improve Dietary Behavior and Physical Activity Among Adolescents With Obesity: Protocol for a Systematic Review
Authors: Ansari Muhammad Ridwan , Kodriati Nurul , Pertiwi Ariani Arista Putri , Dewi Fatwa Sari Tetra
Published: February 2024

Background

The global obesity pandemic among adolescents is becoming a public health issue throughout the world. Telehealth use has significantly increased during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, including its application in adolescent obesity prevention and treatment.

Objective

This review aims to synthesize the evidence on the effectiveness of telenutrition in improving dietary behavior and physical activity in adolescents with obesity.

Methods

The PRISMA-P (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocols) guideline will be used to structure this protocol. The focus of the systematic review is guided by the population, intervention, comparator, and outcome (PICO) framework. A systematic search of Science Direct, PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, JMIR, ProQuest, and Google scholar databases will be conducted. Two authors will screen the titles and abstracts of identified studies independently and select studies according to the eligibility criteria. The full-text reading will be done independently by 2 reviewers to assess final eligibility. Any discrepancies will then be discussed and resolved. The Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias tool was used to assess the risk of bias; a descriptive analysis will summarize the effectiveness of the telenutrition or any type of telehealth intervention used.

Results

The systematic review is expected to be completed by the end of March 2024. The ongoing screening and review of the articles are currently being conducted.

Conclusions

This systematic review aims to summarize the effectiveness, features, design process, usability, and coherence of a telenutrition intervention using behavior change theory to improve dietary patterns and physical activity among adolescents with obesity. It will identify areas for improvement and best practices, informing the development of more useful and engaging telenutrition interventions for adolescents.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO CRD42023458336; http://tinyurl.com/cp46fjj9

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/53282
Improving the Social Well-Being of Single Older Adults Using the LOVOT Social Robot: Qualitative Phenomenological Study (Preprint)
Authors: Tan Cheng Kian , Lou Vivian W Q , Cheng Clio Yuen Man , He Phoebe Chu , Khoo Veronica Eng Joo
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

This study examined the social well-being of single older adults through the companionship of a social robot, LOVOT (Love+Robot; Groove X). It is designed as a companion for older adults, providing love and affection through verbal and physical interaction. We investigated older adults’ perceptions of the technology and how they benefitted from interacting with LOVOT, to guide the future development of social robots.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to use a phenomenological research design to understand the participants’ experiences of companionship provided by the social robot. Our research focused on (1) examining the social well-being of single older adults through the companionship of social robots and (2) understanding the perceptions of single older adults when interacting with social robots. Given the prevalence of technology use to support aging, understanding single older adults’ social well-being and their perceptions of social robots is essential to guide future research on and design of social robots.

METHODS

A total of 5 single women, aged 60 to 75 years, participated in the study. The participants interacted independently with the robot for a week in their own homes and then participated in a poststudy interview to share their experiences.

RESULTS

In total, 4 main themes emerged from the participants’ interactions with LOVOT, such as caring for a social robot, comforting presence of the social robot, meaningful connections with the social robot, and preference for LOVOT over pets.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that single older adults can obtain psychosocial support by interacting with LOVOT. LOVOT is easily accepted as a companion and makes single older adults feel like they have a greater sense of purpose and someone to connect with. This study suggests that social robots can provide companionship to older adults who live alone. Social robots can help alleviate loneliness by allowing single older adults to form social connections with robots as companions. These findings are particularly important given the rapid aging of the population and the increasing number of single-person households in Singapore.
Development and Validation of a Computed Tomography–Based Model for Noninvasive Prediction of the T Stage in Gastric Cancer: Multicenter Retrospective Study (Preprint)
Authors: Tao Jin , Liu Dan , Hu Fu-Bi , Zhang Xiao , Yin Hongkun , Zhang Huiling , Zhang Kai , Huang Zixing , Yang Kun
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

As part of the TNM (tumor-node-metastasis) staging system, T staging based on tumor depth is crucial for developing treatment plans. Previous studies have constructed a deep learning model based on computed tomographic (CT) radiomic signatures to predict the number of lymph node metastases and survival in patients with resected gastric cancer (GC). However, few studies have reported the combination of deep learning and radiomics in predicting T staging in GC.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to develop a CT-based model for automatic prediction of the T stage of GC via radiomics and deep learning.

METHODS

A total of 771 GC patients from 3 centers were retrospectively enrolled and divided into training, validation, and testing cohorts. Patients with GC were classified into mild (stage T1 and T2), moderate (stage T3), and severe (stage T4) groups. Three predictive models based on the labeled CT images were constructed using the radiomics features (radiomics model), deep features (deep learning model), and a combination of both (hybrid model).

RESULTS

The overall classification accuracy of the radiomics model was 64.3% in the internal testing data set. The deep learning model and hybrid model showed better performance than the radiomics model, with overall classification accuracies of 75.7% (P=.04) and 81.4% (P=.001), respectively. On the subtasks of binary classification of tumor severity, the areas under the curve of the radiomics, deep learning, and hybrid models were 0.875, 0.866, and 0.886 in the internal testing data set and 0.820, 0.818, and 0.972 in the external testing data set, respectively, for differentiating mild (stage T1~T2) from nonmild (stage T3~T4) patients, and were 0.815, 0.892, and 0.894 in the internal testing data set and 0.685, 0.808, and 0.897 in the external testing data set, respectively, for differentiating nonsevere (stage T1~T3) from severe (stage T4) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The hybrid model integrating radiomics features and deep features showed favorable performance in diagnosing the pathological stage of GC.
Combining a Risk Factor Score Designed From Electronic Health Records With a Digital Cytology Image Scoring System to Improve Bladder Cancer Detection: Proof-of-Concept Study (Preprint)
Authors: Cabon Sandie , Brihi Sarra , Fezzani Riadh , Pierre-Jean Morgane , Cuggia Marc , Bouzillé Guillaume
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

To reduce the mortality related to bladder cancer, efforts need to be concentrated on early detection of the disease for more effective therapeutic intervention. Strong risk factors (eg, smoking status, age, professional exposure) have been identified, and some diagnostic tools (eg, by way of cystoscopy) have been proposed. However, to date, no fully satisfactory (noninvasive, inexpensive, high-performance) solution for widespread deployment has been proposed. Some new models based on cytology image classification were recently developed and bring good perspectives, but there are still avenues to explore to improve their performance.

OBJECTIVE

Our team aimed to evaluate the benefit of combining the reuse of massive clinical data to build a risk factor model and a digital cytology image–based model (VisioCyt) for bladder cancer detection.

METHODS

The first step relied on designing a predictive model based on clinical data (ie, risk factors identified in the literature) extracted from the clinical data warehouse of the Rennes Hospital and machine learning algorithms (logistic regression, random forest, and support vector machine). It provides a score corresponding to the risk of developing bladder cancer based on the patient’s clinical profile. Second, we investigated 3 strategies (logistic regression, decision tree, and a custom strategy based on score interpretation) to combine the model’s score with the score from an image-based model to produce a robust bladder cancer scoring system.

RESULTS

We collected 2 data sets. The first set, including clinical data for 5422 patients extracted from the clinical data warehouse, was used to design the risk factor–based model. The second set was used to measure the models’ performances and was composed of data for 620 patients from a clinical trial for which cytology images and clinicobiological features were collected. With this second data set, the combination of both models obtained areas under the curve of 0.82 on the training set and 0.83 on the test set, demonstrating the value of combining risk factor–based and image-based models. This combination offers a higher associated risk of cancer than VisioCyt alone for all classes, especially for low-grade bladder cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate the value of combining clinical and biological information, especially to improve detection of low-grade bladder cancer. Some improvements will need to be made to the automatic extraction of clinical features to make the risk factor–based model more robust. However, as of now, the results support the assumption that this type of approach will be of benefit to patients.
The Impact of Different Types of Social Media Use on the Mental Health of UK Adults: Longitudinal Observational Study (Preprint)
Authors: Yu Yue , Dykxhoorn Jennifer , Plackett Ruth
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have explored the association between social media use and mental health among adolescents. However, few studies using nationally representative longitudinal data have explored this relationship for adults and how the effect might change depending on how people use social media.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the longitudinal relationship between the frequency of viewing and posting on social media and mental health problems among UK adults.

METHODS

This study included 15,836 adults (aged 16 years and older) who participated in Understanding Society, a UK longitudinal survey. Social media use was measured with questions about the frequency of viewing social media and posting on social media in Understanding Society Wave 11 (2019-2021). We explored viewing and posting separately, as well as a combined exposure: (1) high viewing, high posting; (2) high viewing, low posting; (3) low viewing, high posting; and (4) low viewing, low posting. Mental health problems were measured in Wave 12 (2020-2022) using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), a validated scale for identifying symptoms of common mental health problems, where higher scores indicated more mental health problems (0 to 36). Unadjusted and adjusted linear regression models were estimated for viewing social media and posting on social media, adjusting for the baseline GHQ score, gender, age, ethnicity, employment, and education. We found no evidence for effect modification by gender and age so overall associations were reported.

RESULTS

In our adjusted models, we found no evidence of an association between the frequency of viewing social media and mental health problems in the following year. We found that adults who posted daily on social media had more mental health problems than those who never posted on social media, corresponding to a 0.35-point increase in GHQ score (β=0.35, 95% CI 0.01-0.68; P=.04). When we considered both social media behaviors, we found that those who frequently viewed and posted on social media scored 0.31 points higher on the GHQ score (β=0.31, 95% CI 0.04-0.58; P=.03) in the following year compared to those who rarely viewed or posted on social media.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that a high frequency of posting on social media was associated with increased mental health problems a year later. However, we did not find evidence of a similar association based on the frequency of viewing social media content. This provides evidence that some types of active social media use (ie, posting) have a stronger link to mental health outcomes than some types of passive social media use (viewing). These results highlighted that the relationship between social media use and mental health is complex, and more research is needed to understand the mechanisms underlying these patterns to inform targeted interventions and policies.
Learning Guarantee of SDP Relaxation on Directed Stochastic Block Models
Authors: Chen Yanlang
Published: February 2024

Community detection in networks has been a focal point in various scientific domains, but the study of directed networks remains relatively under-explored despite their prevalence and importance in capturing real-world systems. This work addresses this research gap by focusing on Directed Stochastic Block Models (DSBMs), a natural extension of traditional Stochastic Block Models (SBMs) to directed graphs. The inherent complexity of directionality in DSBMs makes them challenging to analyze, requiring new mathematical frameworks and computational approaches. We introduce an augmented matrix to encapsulate the directional relationships within these networks, providing a nuanced perspective for further analysis. In this work, we prove the information-theoretical threshold for exact recovery in the DSBMs and propose an SDP relaxation that can achieve this threshold, thereby contributing to the theoretical understanding of community detection in the realm of directed graphs.
India’s Nationalist Agenda: Religion, Science, Politics
Authors: Davis, Jr. Robert V.
Published: February 2024

Science is a particular way of understanding the natural world. It is specific to the development of western European culture beginning in the sixteenth century and presumes that our physical environment is regulated by humanly comprehensible laws, can be reduced to constituent parts, and performs predictably. There is no role for interventionist gods. In India, historical obeisance to the metaphysical strictures of the Vedas prevented the development of a non-religious alternative to deconstructing the natural world that, in the West, became science. Nevertheless, India’s nationalistic political agenda has attempted to credit the Vedas as providing the conceptual origins of science many thousands of years ago. This may be good politics in India, but it is bad history and misrepresents what science is.
Ecological Advantages and Challenges Research on the Sustainable Development of Sports Tourism in Kangluxin Integrated Loop Route
Authors: Dai Duo
Published: February 2024

The sports tourism development of the Kanglu - Xin Integrated Ring Line has attracted much attention in the context of sustainable development. This study focuses on the ecological advantages and challenges of sports tourism in the region. Through in-depth research on geography, resources, economy and social culture, it aims to deeply understand the current situation of this field and provide strategic suggestions for future sustainable development. In order to fully understand the development of Kangluxin Integrated Ring Sports Tourism, we also pay attention to possible dilemmas, including possible negative impacts on the environment and society, such as ecological damage, over-utilization of resources, and possible social problems. Through an in-depth study of the ecological advantages and challenges of the Kanglu - Xin integrated ring sports tourism, this study provides theoretical and practical guidance for achieving sustainable, balanced and comprehensive development of sports tourism in the region.
Bioprospecting and Exploration of Phytochemicals as Quorum Sensing Inhibitors against Cariogenic Dental Biofilm
Authors: Arya S. , Usha R.
Published: February 2024

Dental caries is a polymicrobial infection affecting the dental hard tissues. Excessive carbohydrate intake leads to the accumulation of acid-producing and acid-resistant microorganisms in the oral region. It is a biofilm-dependent oral infection with cariogenic pathogens and the most prevalent disease globally. The prevention and control of caries play a vital role in global health management. Periodontal diseases and subgingival plaque etiology are due to the combined action of bacterial invasion and immune reaction, resulting in the devastation of periodontal tissues, culminating in tooth loss. The compact micro colony inhabiting the dental surfaces attaches with secreted polymer, forming a biofilm. Bacterial biofilm impervious to various drugs and chemicals poses a significant challenge in therapeutic scenarios of medical and odonatological infections. The quorum-sensing signaling mechanism in bacteria controls the metabolic and physiologic properties involved in bacterial existence, pathogenesis, and virulence. Hence, studies monitoring the molecular mechanism of quorum sensing and their restricted social interactions will be highly beneficial in the treatment regimen of the modern era. Natural bioactive compounds can be exploited for their medicinal value in combating oro-dental infections. Phytochemicals are promising candidates that could provide novel strategies for fighting infections. The current review highlights the mechanism of quorum sensing, plant products’ effect in controlling quorum sensing, and biofilm-induced dental infections like Periodontitis.
Para além da faixa de domínio: políticas empresariais de controle territorial na extensão da Malha Regional Sudeste
Authors: Alves Jéssica de Fátima Rossone
Published: February 2024

Este artigo aborda o capitalismo exportador de commodities na América Latina no século XXI, tendo como cerne as relações de poder entre empresas e agentes públicos na gestão da infraestrutura ferroviária brasileira, abordando o caso da Malha Regional Sudeste (MRS), sob gestão da concessionária MRS Logística S/A. Fundamenta-se na literatura marxista sobre a produção capitalista do espaço e as infraestruturas. Examina publicações oficiais dos órgãos governamentais competentes e da empresa, trazendo uma perspectiva enraizada em um ambiente diretamente impactado pela atuação empresarial. Expõe circunstâncias sob as quais está a MRS e discute artifícios e práticas da empresa para a legitimação do seu poder sobre os territórios onde atua, utilizando-se de tecnologias políticas, jurídicas, econômicas e socioculturais próprias da governamentalidade neoliberal.
Efficacy and Safety of Nootropic Herbal Medicines in Increasing Cognitive Function in Alzheimer Patients
Authors: Aribowo Luigi Collins , Angelia Ferina , Wijaya Diana , Rumawas Marina Astrid
Published: February 2024

Background: Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia found in society and it is estimated that the number of dementia sufferers will increase. Declining cognitive function is a hallmark symptom and the treatment that has been used to combat the symptom is still unsatisfactory and has side effects. This review explores other herbal and nootropic alternative treatments.Methods: Published Randomized Clinical Trials (RCT) and meta-analyses regarding the efficacy and safety of herbal medicine in increasing cognitive function in Alzheimer patients are searched in PubMed and Google Scholar while applying several inclusion and exclusion criteria.Results: 14 articles are retrieved, which are 3 RCTs and 11 meta-analyses, and are analyzed further. Several interventions are examined, which include Ginkgo biloba, Curcuma longa, Crocus sativus, Huperzine A, Panax ginseng, and Chinese herbal medicine. Each of these interventions exert different levels of efficacy and safety, and differ in their price range.Conclusion: Out of all the analyzed interventions, Crocus sativus could be used as a potential treatment for Alzheimer patients due to its comparable level of efficacy and safety to that of standard therapy and cost effective, but there needs to be a standardized extract for the Indonesian population to easily obtain.
Abstrak
Latar belakang: Penyakit Alzheimer merupakan jenis demensia yang paling sering ditemukan dalam masyarakat dan diperkirakan angka penderita akan terus meningkat beberapa tahun kedepannya. Salah satu gejala khas dari penyakit Alzheimer adalah gejala menurunnya fungsi kognitif, dan obatan-obatan yang sekarang dipakai untuk melawan gejala tersebut belum memuaskan dan  terdapat beberapa efek samping. Berdasarkan hal tersebut dibuat tinjauan untuk menelusuri terapi alternatif yang bersifat herbaldan nootropik.Metode: Dilakukan penelusuran artikel publikasi Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) dan meta-analisis mengenai khasiat dan keamanan tanaman obat untuk meningkatkan fungsi kognitif pada pasien Alzheimer dalam database PubMed dan Google Scholar dengan menerapkan beberapa kriteria inklusi dan kriteria eksklusi.Hasil: Terdapat 14 artikel berupa 3 RCT dan 11 meta-analisis yang dianalisa lebih lanjut. Beberapa intervensi yang ditelusuri adalah Ginkgo biloba, Curcuma longa, Crocus sativus, Huperzine A, Panax ginseng, dan Obat herbal Cina. Masing-masing intervensi memiliki khasiat untuk meningkatkan fungsi kognitif, tingkat keamanan, dan rentang harga yang berbeda.Kesimpulan: Dari semua intervensi yang dianalisa, Crocus sativus dapat menjadi terapi alternatif untuk pasien Alzheimer dikarenakan intervensi ini dapat meningkatkan fungsi kognitif, memiliki tingkat keamanan yang setara dengan terapi standar dengan harga  terjangkau, namun perlu adanya sediaan ekstrak terstandard yang dapat dijangkau masyarakat Indonesia.
Las competencias empresariales: Una necesidad en el perfil emprendedor de los estudiantes del programa de Administración de Empresas de la Universidad Francisco de Paula Santander Ocaña
Authors: Mosquera - Carrascal Adriana , Bayona - Trillos Ramón Armando , Vergel - Quintero Damarys
Published: February 2024

La investigación pretende analizar el desarrollo del emprendimiento al interior del programa académico de Administración de Empresas, de la Universidad Francisco de Paula Santander Ocaña. La metodología empleada, demandó una población conformada por 30 profesores y 65 estudiantes del último semestre, obteniendo los datos primarios mediante la aplicación del instrumento en correspondencia al tipo de investigación descriptiva utilizada en este estudio. Los resultados reflejan la presencia de estrategias de aprendizaje en el modelo microcurricular del programa, las competencias indispensables en el proceso emprendedor y el perfil del docente que promueve una cultura de emprendimiento presente en el programa. Se concluye que existe la necesidad fomentar y fortalecer las competencias empresariales en el programa, al interior de currículo y de la práctica docente para formar el perfil emprendedor en los estudiantes y futuros profesionales de acuerdo con la necesidad de desarrollo empresarial de la región y del país.
The Stabilization and Association Agreements in the Western Balkans as a tool for trade promotion and regional reconciliation
Authors: Leka Dukagjin , Jusufi Gezim
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the impact of the Stabilization and Association Agreement (SAA) on the economic development of the Western Balkans. The basic aim of this agreement was the economic development of the countries of this region. Many firms would benefit from trade and contractual relationships with the European Union (EU). The methodology used is the gravity model, which predicts bilateral trade flows based on the economic sizes and distance between the EU and the Western Balkans. The model has been used in international relations to evaluate the impact of treaties on trade, and it has been used to test the effectiveness of trade agreements on the economy. Statistics of export, import, economic growth, etc. have been provided for a ten-year period 2007–2017. This paper is based on the research of Qorraj (2016), Qorraj and Jusufi (2018), and Leka et al. (2022). The relevance of the paper depends on that, within the ten years, there was no significant increase in the exports of these countries to the EU market. This paper concludes that the SAA has not ensured the export growth of these countries because products originating from this region are not competitive in the EU market, EU exports to this region have increased more than the other way around.
Pain relief and functional improvements after focally applied, acoustically driven vibratory stimulation in a series of spondylolisthesis case
Authors: Mosabbir Abdullah , Khan Aslam , Bartel Lee
Published: February 2024

In this retrospective study, medical records pilot study, a cohort of
patients (5F/2M), who were diagnosed with degenerative
spondylolisthesis, underwent a novel sound-based vibratory treatment
over a period of three months. Clinical outcomes included pain intensity
and functional disability due to back pain improved from pre- to
post-treatment. Clinical outcomes such as shoulder/pelvic tilt, leg
length difference, and range of motion are discussed.
Combining “Deep Learning” and Physically Constrained Neural Networks to Derive Complex Glaciological Change Processes from Modern High-Resolution Satellite Imagery: Application of the GEOCLASS-image System to Create VarioCNN for Glacier Surges
Authors: Herzfeld Ute Christina , Hessburg Lawrence John , Trantow Thomas , Hayes Adam N
Published: February 2024

The objectives of this paper are to investigate the tradeoffs between a
physically constrained neural network and a deep, convolutional neural
network and to design a combined ML approach (“VarioCNN”). Our
solution is provided in the framework of a cyberinfrastructure that
includes a newly designed ML software, GEOCLASS-image, modern
high-resolution satellite image datasets (Maxar WorldView data) and
instructions/descriptions that may facilitate solving similar spatial
classification problems. Combining the advantages of the
physically-driven connectionist-geostatistical classification method
with those of an efficient CNN, VarioCNN, provides a means for rapid and
efficient extraction of complex geophysical information from submeter
resolution satellite imagery. A retraining loop overcomes the
difficulties of creating a labeled training data set.

Computational analyses and developments are centered on a specific, but
generalizable, geophysical problem: The classification of crevasse types
that form during the surge of a glacier system. A surge is a glacial
catastrophe, an acceleration of a glacier to typically 100-200 times its
normal velocity, which for a marine-terminating glacier leads to sudden
and substantial mass transfer from the cryosphere to the oceans,
contributing significantly to sea-level-rise. The sudden and rapid
acceleration characteristic of a surge results in formation of
crevasses, whose spatial characteristics provide informants on the
ice-dynamic processes that occur during the surge. GEOCLASS-image is
applied to study the current (2016-2024) surge in the Negribreen Glacier
System, Svalbard. The geophysical result is a description of the
structural evolution and expansion of the surge, based on crevasse types
that capture ice deformation in 6 simplified classes.