bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Challenges and Strategies of Implementing Agricultural Electronic Licenses in China
Authors: Cheng Qian , Chen Bing
Published: May 2024

In the process of expanding the application of electronic licenses in the Chinese agricultural sector, challenges such as inconsistent information standards, poor interoperability, significant data barriers, and lack of regulatory basis are encountered. By examining online information and practical data of agricultural electronic licenses in the 31 provincial-level administrative units in mainland China, variations in the reasons for promoting the expanded application of electronic licenses in different regions were identified. It is believed that strategies should be proposed around key factors such as government capacity, economic development, social needs, and intergovernmental relations. Suggestions include enhancing the intensity of information aggregation, diversifying the management entities, advancing the intelligence of underlying technology, and improving the completeness of legal rules. New conceptual proposals, such as constructing a database for agricultural information collection, establishing a multi-entity management authorization mechanism, implementing intelligent applications of electronic licenses at the grassroots level, and developing specialized legal rules, require further validation.
Scientific Approach in Cognitive Conflict Strategy: Effects on Cognitive Learning Outcomes Based on the Assertive Attitude of High School Students
Authors: Khoeriah Salbiatun , Sunarno Widha , Pujayanto Pujayanto
Published: May 2024

Distance learning requires teachers to determine and use appropriate learning methods, models, and strategies. However, the lack of variety in these three things makes students less active. The research objectives include finding out whether or not there are: 1) difference the influence of the application of cognitive conflict learning strategies and mind mapping with a scientific approach on students' cognitive learning outcomes, 2) the difference in the influence of high and low category students' assertive attitudes on students' cognitive learning outcomes, and 3) the interaction of the influence between the use of learning strategies and assertive attitudes on the results Cognitive learning for class The research method applies experiments through a 2x2 factorial design. The population includes all class XI MIPA students, comprising five classes and totals 166 students. Samples were taken from 2 classes from 5 classes. The sampling technique refers to Cluster Random Sampling. Data collection techniques are done through documentation, tests, and questionnaires. The data analysis technique uses prerequisite tests, namely the normality and homogeneity tests. Next, a hypothesis test was carried out using a two-way ANOVA with unequal cell contents. The results of the research are that there are differences in the influence of the use of cognitive conflict learning strategies and mind mapping using a scientific approach on students' cognitive learning outcomes (F observation = 4.227 > F table = F 0.05; 1; 53 = 4.02); t there is a difference in the influence of assertive attitudes of students in the high and low categories on students' cognitive learning outcomes (F observation = 7.265 > F table = F 0.05;1;53 = 4.02); and there is no interaction effect of the use of learning strategies with an assertive attitude on students' cognitive learning outcomes (F observation = 0.809 < F table = F 0.05; 1; 53 = 4.02). This study’s contribution the effectiveness of applying cognitive conflict learning strategies and mind mapping through a scientific approach to Cognitive learning outcomes on Elasticity and Hooke's Law material.
Physics Learning Innovation: Revealing the Potential of Lectora Inspire-Based Media with a Scientific Approach
Authors: Melinda Elsa , Budiharti Rini , Ekawati Elvin Yusliana
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this research is to (1) Summarize the procedure for developing Lectora Insprire-based learning media with a scientific approach for learning high school physics on Dynamic Fluid material that meets good criteria, (2) Summarize the specifications of Lectora Insprire-based learning media with a scientific approach for learning high school physics on Dynamic Fluid material that has been developed, (3) Summarize the results of expert assessment of Lectora Insprire-based learning media with a scientific approach for learning high school physics on Dynamic Fluid material in terms of material, design, and language aspects. The research method used is Research and Development, which uses the ADDIE development model. The stages passed in this study are limited to the analysis stage, design stage, and development stage. Research data sources from supervisors, peers, high school physics teachers, and students of SMA Negeri 2 Magelang and SMA Negeri 4 Magelang. The data collection technique used in this research is distributing needs and assessment questionnaires. The analysis techniques used are qualitative analysis and quantitative analysis. The specifications of the developed media are published in .exe format, and there are features in the form of menus to go to specific pages. They are equipped with simulations and interactive questions and can be run offline. The results of the media assessment developed meet the criteria of excellent assessment given by the supervisor, peers, high school physics teachers, and high school students in class XI. This research can be the basis for developing Lectora Inspire-based learning media with a scientific approach to Dynamic Fluid material.
DO FUNDAMENTAL FINANCIAL RATIOS AFFECT THE COMPANY'S STOCK PRICE? INDONESIA EVIDENCE
Authors:   Riau University, Zarefar Arumega , Armadani Armadani ,   Airlangga University
Published: May 2024

The objectives of this research aims to examine the effect of corporate fundamental financial ratios on stock prices and to examine whether firm age determine stock prices in the perspective of signaling theory. Here Generalized Least Squares (GLS) approach was used as the main analysis technique, and Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) was incorporated for the robustness test. The research was conducted on companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange during the 2014-2020 period. This study finds that return on assets, solvency ratio, and Tobin's Q positively affect stock prices, that cash ratio has a negative effect on stock prices, and that, interestingly, older companies convey better signals than the younger ones. These findings can assist investors in making quality decisions and company managers in making consideration for developing company strategies. Further, this study comprehensively analyzes the effect of corporate financial ratios on stock prices using the perspective of signaling theory and Modigliani-Miller theory looks at the differences between older and younger companies.
Application of Solar Energy Bank as a Energy Source for Fisherman Community
Authors: Supu Idawati , Ahmadi Haerul , Latief Muh. Fachrul
Published: May 2024

Lopo is one of the village in Batudaa Pantai District and the center of the communitys socio economic activities. The major source of livelihood for the people in Loopo Village is by utilizing local potential in the coastal area so that majority of the fisherman with category of living below the poverty line. Thus, a literature review was carried out to suumarize stages and processes for developing coastal economic potential and environmental management as well optimizing creative economic potential as an effort to improve quality of life for the coastal communities of Lopo Village, which includes the use of advanced materials recharge energy bank was made from silicon solar panel. The results program was a form installation of solar energy bank 220 Voltage that can be used by fisherman. The society had used continuously which the product was a result by this program. This tool is very useful for fishing activities at sea at night because it is a lighting tool to replace the flashlights that fishermen have been using.
Acute Flaccid Myelitis
Authors: Doi Kazuteru , Hattori Yasunori , Maruyama Akio , Marei Abdelhakim Ezzat , Sakamoto Sotetsu , Sasaki Jun , Hayashi Kota , Fujita Makimi
Published: May 2024

Background:

Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare debilitating poliomyelitis-like illness characterized by the sudden onset of flaccid palsy in the extremities. The purpose of this study was to report the mid-term clinical course of knee extension in AFM and the effect of contralateral obturator nerve-to-femoral nerve transfer (CONFNT) for restoration of knee extension in AFM.

Methods:

Twenty-six patients with lower extremity palsy due to AFM were referred to our clinic for possible surgical reconstruction. Their median age was 4.0 years, and the first evaluation of the palsy was done at a mean of 6 months after paralysis onset. The paralysis ranged from lower limb monoplegia to quadriplegia. The clinical course of knee extension was assessed using the British Medical Research Council (MRC) grading scale and surface electromyography (EMG). Five patients with unilateral paralysis of knee extension underwent CONFNT.

Results:

The mean follow-up period for 19 limbs with complete paralysis of knee extension (MRC grade M0) in 13 patients who were evaluated for spontaneous recovery was 43 months. No patient who had complete paralysis of knee extension at >6 months and paralysis of the hip adductor muscle had improvement of knee extension to better than M2. Five of the original 26 patients were treated with CONFNT and followed for a mean of 61 months. Two of 5 patients had the CONFNT ≤8 months after paralysis onset and obtained M4 knee extension. Only 1 of the 3 patients with CONFNT performed approximately 12 months after paralysis onset obtained M3 knee extension; the other 2 obtained only M1 or M2 knee extension.

Conclusions:

The paralysis of the lower extremity in our patients with AFM was similar to that in poliomyelitis. However, in AFM, spontaneous recovery of knee extension was possible if there were signs of recovery from hip adductor paralysis up to 6 months after paralysis onset. CONFNT may enhance the recovery of knee extension and seems to be a reliable reconstruction for restoring knee extension if performed no more than 8 months after paralysis onset.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Popular Musician Occupational Stress and Psychological Ill Health: An Exploratory Factor Analysis
Authors: King Ben , Koenig Jessica , Berg Lloyd
Published: May 2024

OBJECTIVE: Popular musicians are exposed to many occupational stressors, including unpredictable work schedules, touring and economic precarity, that have been associated in prior studies with psychological ill health. This study sought to identify occupational stressors most strongly
associated with depression, anxiety, and alcohol misuse in popular musicians. METHODS: An online survey was completed by 317 popular musicians that included the Musician Occupational Stress Scale (MOSS), a validated measure of occupational stress in popular musicians. An exploratory principle-factor
analysis (EFA) investigated the dimensions of response patterns in the items comprising the MOSS. RESULTS: Four factors were identified that predicted 50% of musician occupational stress: Work Insecurity Stress, Tour Stress, Performance Stress, and Professional Relationship Stress. In addition
to financial distress, each factor was significantly associated with depression and anxiety and Tour Stress also was associated with alcohol misuse. After adjusting for all other factors and financial distress, only Work Insecurity Stress remained associated with depression (odds ratio [OR]=
5.42; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 3.23–9.09) and anxiety (OR=5.95; 95% CI = 3.51–10.11). Tour Stress became inversely associated with depression (OR= 0.59; 95% CI = 0.40–0.89) and anxiety (OR=0.60; 95% CI = 0.40–0.89). After adjustment, alcohol misuse was associated
with Professional Relationship Stress (OR=1.66; 95% CI = 1.04–2.65) but inversely correlated with Performance Stress (OR=0.60; 95% CI = 0.40–0.91). CONCLUSIONS: The four-factor model was shown to reliably simplify driving associations of occupational stressors that negatively impact
psychological functioning in popular musicians. Dissemination of these findings could have practical implications in developing effective outreach messaging to promote psychological resilience and guide psychotherapeutic intervention strategies for this high-risk occupational group.
Isolate and diagnose some bacteria contaminated minced meat and determine the concentrations of powder and extracts plant cinnamon bark inhibitory and minimum lethal bacteria
Authors: Al-Zubaidy Labeb Ahmed , Abdul-Huseen Noria , Al-Qaisi Mahdy Dhamad
Published: May 2024

Powder extracts hot water from local ground beef and studied inhibitory effectiveness of powder and extracts to the concentration of the aqueous extract hot Gulf students
Dynamic Multi-Layered Image Encryption scheme using User Driven Chaotic Sequences
Authors: Mathivanan P. , Ashwini K
Published: May 2024

With technological advances, sharing sensitive information, such as multimedia data, especially images, is common. To protect the integrity of such data, advanced encryption algorithms are utmost necessary. The proposed encryption scheme introduces a novel approach that capitalizes on the distinct characteristics of users' authenticated usernames to dictate the sequence in which image blocks are encrypted. The methodology encompasses two key strategies. Initially, a set of four individual chaotic maps - Sin, Chebyshev, Logistic, and Gaussian - are employed for encryption. Also, the image blocks are encrypted with a novel 4D chaotic map. The process begins with segmenting an N×N×3 color image into its red, blue, and green constituents, each of size N×N. These constituents are further subdivided into four arrays, each sized (4×4) × (N/4) × (N/4). The encryption process for various image bands is based on the use of chaotic sequences generated by schemes 1 and 2. These resulting sequences serve as the fundamental encryption keys, guiding a variety of processes including both confusion and diffusion. The proposed encryption schemes, Scheme 1 and Scheme 2 were rigorously evaluated through extensive simulations, comparing their performance with a traditional algorithm. Both procedures demonstrated robustness against statistical analysis differential attacks and showcased NPCR and UACI values closely approximating ideal standards of 99.6 and 33.4, respectively. Notably, Scheme 2, employing the proposed 4D map, outperformed Scheme 1, which used four different chaotic maps, particularly in terms of NPCR and UACI. The schemes exhibited a significant key space of 2540, rendering decryption infeasible within an astronomical time frame of 9.449 × 10130 years. Further, entropy and correlation analysis validation revealed values close to 7.99 and 0, aligning with traditional algorithms' values. Additionally, pixel distribution analyses indicated uniformity along horizontal, vertical, and diagonal directions. The paper introduces an innovative encryption approach that capitalizes on user-specific characteristics and demonstrates superior security and performance compared to conventional methods.
A deep learning approach to enhance accuracy and diversity of recommendation for interdisciplinary journals
Authors: Yang Donghui , Wang Huimin , Shi Zhaoyang , Zhu Kehui
Published: May 2024

To meet scholars' need to recommend both higher accuracy and diversity when submitting interdisciplinary papers, this paper proposes an improved journal diversity recommendation method based on the attention mechanism in deep learning. This method can retain all key information in long texts by using the attention mechanism. It identifies and stores the research directions and hotspots covered in different papers across journals to extract common research topics for each journal type. Five deep learning models based on attention mechanism are introduced, 104,176 paper abstracts from 111 Web of Science journals are used to fine-tune the models. After learning on training set and model testing on the test set, recommendation accuracy and diversity results are calculated for 9 categories. Finally, the recommendation accuracy and diversity of the 5 attention mechanism based deep learning models are compared with benchmark models across different journal types. The experimental results demonstrate the feasibility and superiority of this method comprehensively considering the metrics of accuracy and diversity at a large scale. It provides theoretical and practical advancements to develop an effective journal recommender system which helps scholars to make wise decision for journal submission.
Does Dometic Tourisim Drive the Infation Rate or the Inflation Restricts the Domestic Toursim? A Case Study of Uzbekistant Using Vector Autoregressive (VAR) Model
Authors: Chaudhary Naina , Kler Rajneesh , Priyanshu Deepa , Mouqdadi Mahera , Arora Manik , Ather Danish
Published: May 2024

Utilizing a Vector Autoregressive (VAR) model, the present study investigates the multifaceted relation between domestic tourism and the inflation rate in Uzbekistan. By applying annual inflation rates and monthly-adjusted data on the number of domestic tourists from January 2016 to September 2023, this study examines whether an upsurge in tourism activity influences inflation or if an increase in inflation impedes domestic tourism. Time series analysis, ACF and PACF plots, and unit root tests are employed as methodological approaches to validate stationarity in the tourism data and stationarity at first difference in the inflation data, respectively. While in the beginning, Johansen tests for cointegration assert that two variables are co-integrated at first, but later they are not. The outcomes deriving from the VAR model hint at the existence of a strong, unidirectional connection between the incoming tourists and subsequent inflation where the effects show up at 1st lag. This discovery put a spotlight on the fact that domestic tourism would increase due to inflation-bound measures. Accordingly, these research enable the grasp of the economic dynamics between inflation and tourism which are important pieces of information which can be useful for the government officials of Uzbekistan in their efforts to sustain stable economy and promoting domestic tourism at the same time.
Quality of long-term follow up and results of sleeve gastrectomy: 5-year prospective observational cohort study. 114 cases
Authors: Soufron Jacques , Burnel Dominique
Published: May 2024

Introduction Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is the most used procedure worldwide for the treatment of morbid obesity. Despite sustained weight loss and improvement of comorbidities in most patients, it can also be associated with late complications and weight regain. International guidelines therefore recommend multidisciplinary long-term follow-up. The aim of this study was to examine the quality of 5-year follow-up and weight loss of patients who underwent SG in our center in 2013.
Patients and methods A total of 111 patients were analyzed in this study. Follow-up was considered consistent when the patient complied with the procedures of our bariatric center, and with international and national guidelines, and attended at least one biologic assessment and follow-up clinic every year in the postoperative period. Follow-up was considered intermediate if there was a proof of regular follow-up by a general practitioner (GP). Follow-up was otherwise considered inconsistent.
Results Forty-two of the 111 patients (39%) had regular follow-up by the bariatric center and 37 (33%) by their GP. No follow-up could be traced for 32 (29%) patients. Mean (±SD) difference between body mass index (BMI) at the time of surgery and at 5-year follow-up was 12.6 ± 6.0 kg/m2 for patients who were followed in the bariatric center vs. 11.8 ± 5.1 kg/m2 for those followed by their GP (p=0.38). Mean Total Weigh Lost % (%TWL) was 29.9 ± 11.1% for the first group and 29.1 ± 14.2% for the second group (p = 0.4).
Conclusion The rate of patients lost to follow-up is concerning. However, those patients who attended regular follow-up visits had a real long-term benefit of SG and follow-up by a GP only seemed to be effective.
From pore to process: ultra-efficient SF6/N2 continuous separation using inexpensive robust MOF composites
Authors: Yang Qiwei , Li Jinjian , Chen Yuting , Ke Tian , Yang Liu , Zhang Zhiguo , Ren Qilong , Bao Zongbi
Published: May 2024

Physisorption presents a promising alternative to cryogenic distillation for capturing the most potent greenhouse gas, SF6, but existing adsorbents face challenges in meeting diverse chemical and engineering concerns. Herein, with insights into in-pore chemistry and industrial process design, we report a systematic investigation that constructed two novel low-cost composites pellets (Al(fum)@2%HPC and Al(fum)@5%Kaolin) coupled with an innovative two-stage Vacuum Temperature Swing Adsorption (VTSA) process for the ultra-efficient recovery of low-concentration SF6 from N2. Record-high selectivities (> 2×104) and SF6 dynamic capacities (~2.7 mmol/g) were achieved, while exceptional SF6 productivities (~58.7 L/kg), yields (~96.8%), and recyclability (~1000 cycles) were demonstrated in fixed-bed adsorption-desorption experiments under mild regeneration conditions. 2D solid-state NMR/in-situ FTIR, DFT-D binding/diffusion simulation analyses revealed the multi-site binding mode and the ultra-fast diffusion of SF6 within the channels. The proposed VTSA processes successfully met the dual stringent requirements of both environmental protection and electricity equipment operation: the SF6 recovery of 99.91% accompanied with a SF6 purity/working capacity of 99.91%/2.1 mmol/g, which significantly outperformed the industrial employed adsorbent zeolite 13X and showed only 19% the energy consumption of the cryogenic distillation.
Effect of Positive Thinking Skills Training Program on Psychological Adjustment among Psychiatric Patients’ Caregivers
Authors: Hay Nahed Hafez Abd El – , Mahmoud Amal Sobhy , Berma Abeer El-Sayed
Published: May 2024

Background: Psychiatric disorder is becoming a major public health problem. Prolonged caregiving responsibilities to psychiatric patients can deplete the family's energy, resulting in exhaustion and increased negative emotions, such as feelings of despair, guilt, depression, and helplessness, and a significant decrease in their psychological adjustment which requires adequate support and training.
Aim: The present study aims to explore the effect of the positive thinking skills training program on psychological adjustment among psychiatric patients’ caregivers.
Method: A quasi-experimental research design (Non-randomized controlled trial) was utilized in this study one group (pre, post-test, and follow-up) in the psychiatric outpatient clinic at Port Said Psychiatric Health Hospital and Addiction Treatment. A purposive sample of 66 psychiatric patients’ caregivers. Eight sessions of positive thinking skills training were carried out in the form of small groups for four months. Two tools used for data collection consisted of Tool I: The Positive Thinking Scale, Tool II: The Psychological Adjustment Scale, in addition to the Personal and Clinical Data Sheet of the studied psychiatric patients' caregivers.
Results:The current study revealed that there were highly statistically ‎significant differences between the mean score of total psychological adjustment in the immediate post-program with mean ±SD (35.2±5.2) and at follow-up phase with mean ±SD (33.8±5.5) compared to a pre-program with mean ±SD (11.4±8.8)as (p<0.001).
Conclusion: The positive thinking skill training program had a positive significant effect in improving the total psychological adjustment score among studied psychiatric patients’ caregivers. The study recommended the application of the positive thinking skill training program by the health profession at Port Said Psychiatric Health Hospital and Addiction Treatment to ensure continuity of care for psychiatric patients' caregivers
Trial Registration Number (TRN)
The study was approved and registered by the Research Ethics Committee (REC), Faculty of Nursing/ Port Said University with trial registration number (NUR 13/3/2022 - 11).
Correlation Analysis of Disease Perception, Ruminative Rumination, and Psychological Resilience in Elderly Patients with Acute Stroke
Authors: Lin Yan , Chen Zhihan , Zhou Weiqing , He Mengjiao , Zhang Jinhua , Guo Hua , Wang Lina
Published: May 2024

Objective: This study aims to explore the psychological status of elderly patients during the acute phase of stroke and to examine the correlation between Illness perception, rumination, and psychological resilience.
Methods: A mixed-method research approach was employed. In the qualitative study, 13 elderly patients with acute stroke were interviewed based on semi-structured interview guides and recordings. The data were transcribed, and thematic content analysis was conducted. In the quantitative study, a cross-sectional survey was conducted on 240 elderly acute stroke patients using paper-based questionnaires, and data analysis was performed using SPSS25.0 and AMOS24.0.
Results: From the qualitative analysis, we identified risk factors affecting the psychological status of elderly patients with acute stroke, which can be summarized into four major themes and six categories: lack of stroke-related disease knowledge and cognitive bias, single-source of disease information; significant sequelae, concern about medical expenses; apparent symptoms of anxiety and depression, disease uncertainty, and fear; sense of disease gain. In the quantitative analysis, results indicated that illness perception had a direct effect on psychological resilience (β=-0.34, P<0.01) and rumination (β=0.51, P<0.01). Also, rumination was directly related to psychological resilience (β=-0.24, P<0.01). In addition, illness perception was indirectly related to psychological resilience (β=0.51*-0.24=-0.12, P<0.01) mediated through rumination rumination.
Conclusion: Improving the level of rumination in elderly patients with acute stroke can mitigate adverse Illness perception and enhance psychological resilience. This study provides a theoretical basis for developing relevant intervention measures.
Ratios of Prostate-Specific Antigen to Albumin, C-reactive Protein, and Haemoglobin Concentration are Valuable Markers to Predict Patients with Either Prostate Cancer or Benign Prostate Hyperplasia
Authors: Mensah-Bonsu Yaw Adjei , Appiah Kwaku Addai Arhin , Dedjoe Victor , Djankpa Francis Tanam , Ainooson George Kwaw , Ntim Emmanuel Amankwah
Published: May 2024

Prostate Cancer (PCa) diagnosis using PSA alone leads to unnecessary biopsy due to the non-specificity of PSA for PCa. Changes in systemic inflammation variables with the development and progression of PCa cancer have been widely acknowledged. This study evaluated the potential utility of ratios involving changes in serum PSA with changes in systemic inflammatory components: serum albumin, C-reactive protein, and full blood count differentials, to differentially predict PCa biopsy in a cohort of pre-biopsy patients. Methods: We prospectively analyzed data from 110 patients who underwent prostate biopsy between September 2022 and September 2023. Age, PSA, full blood count, serum albumin (ALB), serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and biopsy pathology results of the patients were analyzed. Based on biopsy findings, patients were grouped as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and PCa. Results: Analyses of ratios involving PSA and the selected inflammatory markers led to wider discriminating values between PCa and BPH. The mean PSA-to-ALB, PSA-to-Hb and PSA-to-CRP ratios were significantly lower in the BPH group compared with the PCa group. AUROC curves analysis at cut-off points of PSA-ALB˃1, PSA-CRP˃250 and PSA-Hb˃2.5 resulted in specificity and positive predictive values for PSA-to-ALB ratio of 93% and 91% respectively, PSA-to-Hb ratio of 86% and 80% respectively and PSA-to-CRP ratio of 78% and 77% respectively. Unconditional regression analysis showed that PSA-to-CRP, PSA-to-Hb and PSA-to-ALB ratios were independent predictors of positive PCa biopsy. Conclusion: This preliminary study suggests that, the combination of PSA with changes in serum inflammatory variables in ratios improved the diagnostic accuracy more than the use of PSA alone. These ratios may assist in the differential prediction of PCa and BPH, especially where biopsy services are not readily available in Low- and Middle-Income countries.
Navigating the brain: the role of 18F-FDG PET/CT in pinpointing epileptic foci
Authors: Doroudinia Abtin , Afrazeh Fatemeh , Karam Mehrdad Bakhshayesh , Emami Habib
Published: May 2024

Background
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological condition marked by recurring seizures. The 18F-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) technique is thought to be useful for determining the location of epilepsy. However, its ability to detect the epileptic zone in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to determine the role of 18F-FDG PET/CT in localization of temporal and extratemporal epilepsies in patients with refractory epilepsy.
Methods
This is a cross-sectional study examining patients with refractory epilepsy who were admitted to Masih Daneshvari Hospital, Iran. This study includes patients with refractory epilepsy who had normal brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) results. The seizure focus was indicated by two professional neurologists using a video-electroencephalography monitoring (VEM). All patients received an intravenous injection of FDG at a dosage of 4.6 MBq/kg. The patient's records and FDG PET/CT results were then checked, and if they were congruent, the patient would undergo surgery and resection of the epileptic region. The data were reported using descriptive statistics. We also used Cohen's kappa coefficient (k) test to assess interrater agreement between temporal lobe localization and congruency with FDG-PET data.
Results
Our investigation revealed that 65.60% of seizures occurred in temporal lobe, with 67.96% exhibiting congruent PET results. Furthermore, 25.4% had a focus in frontal lobe, while only 12.5% showed congruent PET results. Temporal lobe was the focus of the majority (92.1%) of congruent PET data, as well as 36.3% of partially congruent PET data and 42.3% of incongruent PET data. PET scans revealed that 28.1% were negative, with 47.7% clinically focused in temporal lobe, 38.6% in the frontal lobe, and 13.6% only partially localized. In addition, the interrater agreement for seizure focus localization in temporal lobe was 0.71, indicating substantial agreement.
Conclusion
FDG PET/CT was shown to be an acceptable technique for identifying DRE, namely, temporal lobe epilepsy. The gold standard methods can provide more accurate epilepsy zone localization, resulting in better FDG PET/CT congruency.
Fast and High Precision Control Approach: Polyline Analysis and Optimal NURBS Interpolation for CNC Machine Tools
Authors: Kelekçi Ethem , Kizir Selcuk
Published: May 2024

In CNC operations, smooth motions generated using a parametric curve such as NURBS, Bezier curve, and B-spline are crucial for surface quality and machine control. A parametric curve is formed by microlines in CAD/CAM software; however, instead of microlines, polylines are used to define a parametric curve to prevent an increase in NC-file size. It is also possible to see situations where smooth motion is not required due to production requirements. In these cases, point-to-point motion is necessary instead of smooth motion. In this study, a polyline analysis algorithm is proposed to classify the normal line and polyline within the NC-file. A global tool path smoothing method is also applied, where the data points in a polyline group are converted into NURBS because CAD/CAM software commonly uses NURBS as a parametric curve for precision control of CNC machines. In addition, this study presents an optimal feedrate scheduling algorithm for the NURBS curve that generates an optimal feedrate profile for each segment by considering critical parameters such as segment length, initial and final velocity of each segment, maximum jerk, acceleration, and velocity. As the proposed algorithm is compatible with existing feedrate scheduling methods in which different feedrate values at the transition point of the NURBS segments are determined, this study provides an important contribution to the literature. The proposed methods in this study are verified by operating a spherical surface using industrial NC-files on a 3-axis CNC-Milling machine. The proposed methods demonstrate effective performance in experiments that require precision production operations.
Outpatient Tapering of Buprenorphine in Opioid Use Disorder Pregnancies may Improve Neonatal Outcomes
Authors: Shah Darshan , Adelli Rakesh , Chroust Alyson , Lewis Nicole , Olsen Martin
Published: May 2024

Objective:
The main objective of the study was to compare neonatal outcomes; the incidence of NOWS, length of hospital stay (LOS), admission to neonatal intensive care (NICU), treatment with morphine and head circumference between newborns of mothers who had tapering of buprenorphine (T group) during pregnancy to non-tapering of buprenorphine (NT group.
Study Design:
It was a prospective, pilot, case-control trial of pregnant women done in North-East Tennessee in pregnancy with opioid use disorder (OUD) in tapered (T) group as a part of clinical contract while NT group did not taper medication.
Results:
Significant differences observed in maternal buprenorphine doses, 1.47 versus 7.6 (p < 0.0001), and neonatal outcomes; average birth weight and head circumference (p < 0.05) and admission to NICU (p < 0.05) between the two groups by t test.
Conclusion:
Comprehensive outpatient buprenorphine tapering can be done in OUD pregnancy with improved neonatal outcomes.
Safety, Efficacy, and Immunogenicity of a Novel IgG Degrading Enzyme (KJ103): Results from Two Randomised, Blinded, Phase 1 Clinical Trials
Authors: Liu Yanjun , Cao Mengdie , Katial Rohit , Wang Zheng , Lu Xiaoyu , Gu Qin , Chen Chen , Liu Katie , Zhu Zhen , Marshall Mark , Yu Yanxia
Published: May 2024

The approved recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV) intravenous drugs are limited by the high prevalence of pre-existing anti-AAV antibodies in the general population, which are known to restrict patients’ ability to receive gene therapy and limit transfection efficacy in vivo. Based on that, we developed a novel and low immunogenicity recombinant human immunoglobulin G degrading enzyme (KJ103), which has clinical value in removing anti- AAV antibodies in vivo gene transfer. Herein, we performed two randomized, blinded, placebo-controlled, single ascending dose phase I studies in China and New Zealand, to evaluate pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, safety and immunogenicity of KJ103 in healthy participants. The results comfirmed that KJ103 rapidly reduced IgG and maintained low levels for 1 week. The 0.01 to 0.40 mg/kg dose range of KJ103 had a favorable safety and tolerability profile in healthy participants of different ethnic and gender groups. KJ103 has low percentage of pre-existing ADAs compared to currently licensed human IgG degrading enzyme (i.e. IdeS), and the induced ADAs mostly return to baseline six months after administration. These characteristics are well suited for the treatment of immune disorders, immune rejection, and immunotherapy where pre-existing antibodies reduce efficacy (e.g. AAV-mediated gene therapy in individuals positive for pre-existing anti-AAV antibodies). The potential of KJ103 warrants further exploration.
Comparison of D3 lymphadenectomy with conventional D2 dissection in patients that underwent right hemicolectomy at a district general hospital
Authors: Butnari Valentin , Jones Timothy , Mansuri Ahmer , Patel Maitreyi , Kung Victor , Banerjee Saswata , Rajendran Nirooshun , Huang Joseph , Boulton Richard , Kaul Sandeep
Published: May 2024

Background and Objectives
: Observational studies suggest a link between D3 lymphadenectomy and improved disease-free survival in some colon cancer patients. However, high-quality randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm its advantage over D2 lymphadenectomy. Concerns about potential complications with D3 have limited its use outside of Japan. This study examines short-term outcomes following D3 lymphadenectomy for right-sided colon cancer compared to the established D2 procedure. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study analyzed data on patients with right-sided colon cancer who underwent curative surgery within our healthcare trust between January 2019 and November 2022. Only patients treated by surgeons who routinely perform D3 lymphadenectomy were included for a homogenous study population. The decision to perform D3 was at the discretion of the operating surgeon. Data were collected from both paper charts and electronic medical records. Non-parametric statistical tests were used for data analysis. Results: A total of 214 patients met the criteria, with 170 undergoing D2 lymphadenectomy and 44 undergoing D3 lymphadenectomy. There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of surgery duration, blood loss, postoperative hemoglobin levels, or transfusion needs. Interestingly, the D3 group had a lower complication rate (25%) compared to the D2 group (41.2%). However, the D3 group also had a higher rate of lymph node spread (45.5% vs. 30.6% for D2) and more lymph nodes removed (23 vs. 19). Importantly, both groups achieved similar complete tumour removal rates. Conclusions: This study suggests D3 lymphadenectomy for right-sided colon cancer might be safe with potential benefits, especially for younger patients with suspected lymph node involvement. However, the limited sample size necessitates larger, randomized trials to confirm these findings and potentially establish D3 lymphadenectomy as standard care.
Fabrication of micro holes with high surface quality and mechanical properties by high-speed laser trepanning and electrochemical post-treatment
Authors: Liu Xiaolong , Wang Yufeng , Yang Yong , Bao Lin , Liu Yunfeng , Zhang Wenwu , Li Lin
Published: May 2024

Laser processing could drill micro holes with very high efficiency, but the micro holes suffer from recast layers, microcracks and heat-affected zones, which has limited its wide application in engineering. In this paper, the high-speed laser drilling and electrochemical post-treatment has been combined to improve the machining efficiency and surface quality. To reduce the surface sputtering and redeposit in laser drilling, avoid the stray current induced corrosion and improve the machining precision in electrochemical post-treatment, the double-side coating has been applied to the workpiece before processing. Influences of laser power ratio, frequency, duty cycle and defocus amount on the diameter and taper of the laser drilled micro holes were explored experimentally. Results showed that the micro hole diameter increased with the increase of laser power ratio, duty cycle and defocus amount and decreased with the increase of pulse frequency. The micro hole taper increased with the increase of frequency, duty cycle and defocus amount. A laser power ratio of larger than 70% was recommended to reduce the taper of the laser drilled micro holes. Additionally, orthogonal experiments were employed to study the effects of laser power ratio, frequency, duty cycle and defocus on laser drilled micro hole diameter, taper, and recast layer thickness. Results show that duty cycle has the greatest impact on aperture, and power ratio has the greatest impact on taper, and frequency has the greatest impact on the thickness of the recast layer. Micro holes with an average diameter of 0.58 mm, a taper angle of 1.77°, and an average recast layer thickness of 25 µm have been obtained by laser drilling utilizing the optimal parameters. Finally, electrochemical post-processing was adopted to improve the surface quality and mechanical properties of the laser drilled micro holes. Results had shown that micro holes without recast layer and micro cracks were obtained by electrochemical posttreatment with a processing time of 20 s. Moreover, the inner hole surface roughness has been reduced by 68.16% and the micro hardness was reduced by 63.40%. A surface roughness of Ra 0.71 μm has been achieved. The proposed laser and electrochemical machining could be applied to the fabrication of micro holes with high surface quality and high efficiency.
Improving physical activity in older patients with atrial fibrillation combined with frailty: development of an intervention using the behaviour change wheel framework
Authors: Liu Jingzhe , Xi Guangdi , Chen Dexin , Xu Jianan , Liu Meng , Yang Fuguo
Published: May 2024

Background：Physical activity is inadequate in older adults with AF and frailty. Being physically active improves health outcomes and reduces the healthcare burden. Theory-based behaviour change interventions are necessary to enhance physical activity. The aim of this study was to develop an intervention guided by the Behaviour Change Wheel theory to improve physical activity in older patients with AF and frailty.
Objective：Our aim was to develop a behaviour change intervention for older patients with AF and frailty to increase their physical activity, improve physical health and reduce the national healthcare burden.
Methods：Our study used a framework based on the Behaviour Change Wheel theory to develop a behaviour change intervention through eight steps. Using semi-structured interviews, we identified the determinants of physical activity in older patients with AF and frailty using the COM-B and TDF. Appropriate intervention functions and various policies addressing the determinants of physical functioning in elderly patients with AF and frailty were then selected based on APEASE criteria. Finally, appropriate behaviour change techniques were screened after the APEASE criteria to help achieve translation of the intervention function into intervention content.
Results：Our study identified 12 factors that promote and 12 factors that hinder physical activity. We selected seven intervention functions and 15 behavior change techniques based on these factors. These 7 intervention functions and 15 behavior change techniques are eligible for APEASE criteria. We then determined to use an app as a delivery model. Finally, behavioral change interventions were provided for elderly patients with AF combined with frailty to increase the physical activity level and compliance.
Conclusions：The Behavior Change Wheel provides a systematic approach to designing behavior change interventions, which can enhance physical activity and delay frailty in elderly patients with AF and frailty and reduce healthcare burden. Findings suggest that potential interventions should focus on enhancing disease knowledge, teaching physical activity skills, providing social support, and using appropriate behavior change techniques in older adults with AF and frailty. Our next step will be to conduct a feasibility study to assess the acceptability and effectiveness of intervention programs.
Smad7 ameliorate small airway remodeling in COPD by modulating epithelial-mesenchymal transition
Authors: Liu Xianyang , Sun Shenghua , He Shengyang , Xie Lihua
Published: May 2024

Small airway remodeling is widely recognized as one of the major pathological changes 11 in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), yet the underlying mechanisms remain 12 unclear. In the present study, we observed higher levels of epithelial-mesenchymal transition 13 (EMT) and increased collagen deposition in the lungs of both COPD patients and mice 14 models compared to the control group. Additionally, exposure to cigarette smoke extract 15 (CSE) led to an upregulation of TGF-β1 secretion in bronchial epithelial cells BEAS-2B. Further 16 analyses revealed that TGF-β1 upregulated E-Cadherin and downregulated N-cadherin and 17 Vimentin, as confirmed by rt-qPCR, Western Blot, and Immunofluorescence staining. 18 Morphological changes were also observed as a result of TGF-β1 induction. Interestingly, 19 these TGF-β1-induced changes could be reversed by overexpression of Smad7, while they 20 were enhanced by gene interference. In conclusion, smoking may contribute to TGF-β1–21 induced small airway remodeling, which can be reversed by modulating the EMT process 22 through Smad7.
The intraspecific trade-off between photosynthesis and phenolics in selected crop species: A meta-analysis study
Authors: Kostidis George , Karabourniotis George
Published: May 2024

Phenolics are multifunctional secondary metabolites taking part in both the defence against biotic and the protection against abiotic stress factors. At the interspecific level the concentration of leaf phenolics is negatively correlated with net photosynthesis: Plant species with inherently high photosynthetic rates (mainly annuals) are characterized by low phenolic pool, whereas slow growing species (mainly perennials) show the opposite trend. Crop plants represent a special case of the first group because they have been bred to maximize photosynthesis at the expense of defence and protection. We conducted meta-analyses in four selected crop plants (tomato, pepper, cucumber and olive) in order to test if the trade-off between photosynthesis and phenolics is valid at the intraspecific level as well. We observed that all plants are able to accumulate phenolics under conditions that reduce photosynthesis. However this negative correlation shows different characteristics, pending on the individual species. Moreover, both the basic and maximum level of phenolics in olive leaves is higher than the corresponding ones of the other species. The present investigation indicates that the trade-off between photosynthesis and phenolics at the intraspecific level reflects the answer given by each plant species against the growth–defense/protection dilemma.
Multiplex one-step RT‒qPCR assays for simultaneous detection of AMDV, MEV and CDV
Authors: Cao Zhi , Xu Hang , Zhao Xinru , Zhang Ke , Yin Dehua , Ma Shuai , Li Wenling , Li Siyu , Ren Jianwei , Wen Jianxin
Published: May 2024

Background: Aleutian mink disease, mink viral enteritis and canine distemper are known as the three most serious diseases that cause great economic loss in the mink industry. In clinical practice, aleutian mink disease virus (AMDV), mink enteritis virus (MEV) and canine distemper virus (CDV) are common mixed infections, and they have similar clinical symptoms, such as diarrhoea. Therefore, a rapid and accurate differential diagnosis method for use on mink ranches is essential for the control of these three pathogens. Here, we developed multiplex one-step real-time quantitative PCR (RT‒qPCR) assays for the simultaneous detection and quantification of AMDV, MEV and CDV by using three primers and probes based on the conserved NS1, VP2 and N genes, respectively.
Results: The results showed that the established method was less likely to cross-react with other mink pathogens, with a detection sensitivity of 25 copies/μL and a coefficient of variation less than 3.51%. Moreover, the interference experiment showed that the presence of AMDV, MEV and CDV templates at different concentrations would not interfere with the detection results. Furthermore, two hundred clinical samples of mink with diarrhoea were simultaneously analysed using multiplex RT‒qPCR and single RT‒qPCR, the Kappa values were all greater than 0.921, indicating that there was a high degree of coincidence between the two detection methods.
Conclusions: In conclusion, multiplex RT‒qPCR exhibited high speciﬁcity, sensitivity, and reproducibility, indicating that this method can be used as a reliable and speciﬁc tool for the differential detection and quantiﬁcation of AMDV, MEV and CDV.