bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Thesis on Thesis Failure Using Linear Regression
Authors: Yahya Muhammad Rijal , Dihin Muriyatmoko  , Triana Harmini
Published: October 2022

The process of writing scientific papers of Informatics Engineering students, determining the title or theme is one of the success and failure factors of students in their thesis. Failure in the thesis in this study means that the thesis that has been completed by students is not used or is not published in the form of a scientific paper. Since January 2018-2020 there have been 40 titles / themes at Darussalam Gontor University published by students. Of the total of all theses, 23 themes experienced failures. The purpose of this research was held to analyze the relationship to thesis failure between themes. This study uses quantitative data research with linear regression data analysis techniques, the independent variable in this study is the thesis theme and the dependent variable in thesis failure. The results of this study indicate that the value of multipleiRi = 0.9938 indicates that the correlation is very strong, while the value ofiR squarei = 0.9876 indicates that the effect of themes is 98.76% on thesis failure, while the remaining 1.24% is influenced by other factors.
Dynamic Responses of Embedded Rock Pile Groups due to Rock Burst considering Coupled Pile-to-Pile Interaction
Authors: Cao Xiaolin , Zhou Fengxi , Liu Hongbo , Zhang Zhitong
Published: October 2022

This note presents an analytical solution to investigate the dynamic behavior of pile groups of embedded rock due to rock burst, which takes into account the interaction between piles. The energy generated by the rock burst propagates through the soil in the form of stress waves. It is transmitted to the pile foundation through the interaction between the soil around the pile and the pile. For rock-socketed piles, the condition of pile tip fixing is considered. The horizontal dynamic response calculation model of the pile group is established, and the analytical forms of the pile group stiffness and pile group interaction factor are obtained. In addition, the effect of saturated soil parameters on the dynamic response of pile groups are discussed.
Opportunity vs Risk : Connected Volume Uncertainty in Highly-Faulted Reservoirs - Case Study and Lesson Learn
Authors: Praditya Yusuf Alfyan , Susanto Chrisnadi , Patria Masio , Wibowo Andi A. , Medianestrian _ , Budiyono _
Published: October 2022

Subsurface uncertainty will always be part of the field development. Moreover, the existence of multiple faults that divides reservoirs into segments create more challenges and risks in understanding the field performance. In the other hand, this compartmentalized reservoirs typically also offer promising opportunities for undrained or virgin pressure reservoir development which can provide significant added value especially for mature assets.

This paper presents valuable case study and lesson learn from Premier Oil Indonesia in modelling and estimating optimization opportunities in highly faulted reservoirs at Garuda Field located in Natuna Sea offshore. Several integrated studies that involved seismic reprocessing, static modelling, fault seal analysis, P/Z Analysis and MatBal simulation were done and lead to identification of several promising opportunities to produce the suspected undrained / high pressure reservoir compartments. However, uncertainty and risk will remain lay underground unless the opportunity is accessed or drilled. Two initial opportunities were drilled and workovered in 2021 that unfortunately had depleted pressure outcome – not align with initial expectation.

Case study presented in this paper provide valuable insights and lesson learns in developing compartmentalized reservoirs. Especially when having infill well optimization programs among severely depleted neighbor sands. Despite alignments of several analysis, huge uncertainties are always involved when dealing this type of reservoirs, unless the well is drilled to provide some answers.
Conflict detection and resolution in macaque frontal eye fields
Authors: Yao Tao , Vanduffel Wim
Published: October 2022

Stimulus-induced conflicts in decision making tasks produce both behavioral and neuronal congruency effects (NCE). However, how and when conflicts are detected and resolved at neuronal level remains largely unclear. To address these issues, we recorded from single neurons in the frontal eye fields (FEF) of two macaques performing a conflict task. We found temporal dynamics of the NCEs are independent of the specific task rules, yet they are substantially different in target- and distractor-encoding neurons. Conflicts were detected ~100ms after the conflict-inducing cue (20-30ms after the visual response), which is much faster than predicted based on human EEG results. This suggest that conflict detection by FEF neurons is an automatic and bottom-up driven process. Resolving the conflict at neuronal level, however, requires between <400ms to ~1000ms, and shows profound interindividual differences and depends on task rules, indicating that it is a more complex and top-down driven process.
Self-DNA accumulation as a risk factor for accelerating the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis in elderly individuals
Authors: Luo Wei Dan , Yang Li Jun , Qu Yuanqing , Lin Zicong , Lv Jun , Xu Xiongfei , Wang Linna , Chen Ruihong , Yang Jiujie , Zeng Yaling , Zhang Ruilong , Huang Baixiong , Song Linlin , Chen Xi , Yun Xiaoyun , Zhang Wei , Zhang Kaixin , Wang Hui Miao , Wang Xingxia , Qu Li Qun , Liu Menghan , Wang Yuping , Liu Liang , Law Betty Yuen-Kwan , Wong Vincent Kam Wai
Published: October 2022

Ageing is an unavoidable process in humans and a major factor for the increasing risk of various diseases. In the United States, more than 50% of rheumatoid arthritis patients are middle-aged or elderly, but the risk factors and mechanisms by which ageing increases the incidence of rheumatoid arthritis are not known. It has been suggested that the accumulation of DNA fragments increases the risk of autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus. DNA fragments are a common nucleic acid metabolite in ageing organisms as well as in the serum of humans and animals with rheumatoid arthritis; therefore, we hypothesize that DNA fragments are one of the factors contributing to the development of rheumatoid arthritis due to ageing. First, we analysed two in vitro DNA damage response models by using a gene silencing approach and determined that the DNA fragment clearance gene TREX1 can regulate inflammatory factor release in normal cells. Second, after TREX1 expression was knocked down locally or systemically in rats via the Cre-LoxP system and compared with that in AIA(adjuvant-induced arthritis) model rats treated with AAV-TREX1, it was determined that DNA fragments can result in manifestations of arthritis and abnormal activation of the immune system in rats. These results, including the low expression of the TREX1 gene in clinical patient and AIA model samples and the results of immunohistochemical, Western blot, and transcriptome analyses, revealed that the TREX1 gene can regulate cellular senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP)-related manifestations and showed that dysregulation of c-Jun and c-Fos, components of the TREX1 transcription factor AP-1, is associated with SASP induction. Finally, it was confirmed in vitro that different causes of decreased c-Fos expression can inhibit TREX1 expression. These DNA fragments are potent producers of inflammation-releasing mediators, and TREX1 is an effective degrader of DNA fragments; it is also a key gene that regulates cellular immunity and ageing. Therefore, effectively clearing excess DNA fragments from the body and ensuring the health of senescent cells may be a potential prevention strategy for RA.
Ultrasound-guided reduction of intussusception in infants in a developing world: saline hydrostatic or pneumatic technique?
Authors: Chukwu Isaac S , Ekenze Sebastian O , Ezomike Uchechukwu O , Chukwubuike Kevin E , Ekpemo Samuel C
Published: October 2022

Purpose
Non-operative reduction has emerged as first line in the management of uncomplicated intussusception. The aim of this study was to compare the outcome of saline hydrostatic reduction and pneumatic reduction of intussusception in infants.
Methods
This is a prospective study of infants with uncomplicated intussusception confirmed by ultrasound over a period of twenty-one months from December, 2018 to August, 2020. Fifty-two (69.3%) out of seventy-five infants underwent enema reduction under ultrasound guidance. The success rates, time to reduction and complication rates were assessed.
Results
The success rates, between the saline hydrostatic reduction group and pneumatic reduction group, were comparable [17(65.4%) versus 19(73.1%); relative risk (RR) 0.8; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.6–1.2; p = 0.54]. The mean time to reduction was higher in the saline hydrostatic reduction group (15.4 ± 5.1 minutes versus 10.8 ± 4.1 minutes; p = 0.003). The two groups had similar complication rates; for perforation [1(3.8%) versus 0(0.0%); RR 0.9 (CI 0.9-1.0); p = 0.31] and recurrence [2(7.7%) versus 1(3.8%); RR 0.9 (CI 0.8-1.0); p = 0.55].
Conclusion
Saline hydrostatic reduction and pneumatic reduction of uncomplicated intussusception under ultrasound guidance in infants might have comparable outcomes. However, pneumatic reduction may be faster.
137Cs distribution on the territory of Romania 30 years after Chernobyl accident
Authors: Blebea-Apostu Ana-Maria , Margineanu Romul Mircea , Duliu Octavian G. , Persa Diana , Gomoiu Mariana Claudia
Published: October 2022

To estimate the contribution of Chernobyl 137Cs contamination, in 1993 and especially 2016, its total inventory was determined by gamma-ray high-resolution spectroscopy in 62 and respectively 747 soil samples covering the entire Romanian territory. This permitted us to estimate the 1993 and 2016 total 137Cs inventory to 43 ± 2 TBq and respectively to 14.1± 0.7 Tbq, the last one reduced by a factor of 3 ± 0.3. This value, about twice higher than natural disintegration suggests a significant amount of 137Cs being washed out by precipitation and, in a lower measure, incorporated into plants. At the same time, by evaluating the maximum contribution of 137Cs to the population exposure, in 1993 and especially in 2016, the supplementary annual effective dose did not exceed, the maximum accepted value of 1 mSv.
Effect of different fractions of inspired oxygen on ventilator-induced lung injury during prolonged mechanical ventilation in surgery
Authors: Fan Jian-ping , Qian Ying-cong , Chang Xiao-lan , Men Xiao-wen , Ji Fu-hai , Liu Silan , Lu Xiang-hong
Published: October 2022

Purpose Explore the effect of different intraoperative fraction of inspiration O2(FiO2) on perioperative lung injury through this trial.
Methods 102 patients undergoing lower abdominal surgery under general anesthesia were randomly divided into three groups: group A（FiO230%）,B(FiO250%) and C(FiO280%). The concentrations of surfactant protein A (SP-A) and Clara cell protein 16(CC16) in plasma, which reflect lung injuries, were also detected by ELISA at T0(10 minutes before anesthesia), T1(1 hour after intubation)and T2(3 hours after intubation). Lung ultrasound (LUS) was used to calculate LUS scores of all patients at T0 and T3(30 minutes after extubation) to evaluate the incidence and severity of atelectasis after surgery.
Results 90 patients were enrolled in this trial. Compared with T0, SpO2 decreased significantly at T3 in all three groups(P<0.05). PaO2/FiO2 was higher in group A than in groups B and C at T2 and T3(P<0.05). PaO2/FiO2 decreased with the ventilation duration in all three groups(P<0.05). Compared with T0, the incidence of atelectasis and LUS scores increased significantly at T3 in the three groups (P<0.05).
Conclusion Intraoperative 30% FiO2 ca nalleviate lung injury, improve oxygenation and reduce either incidence or severity of atelectasis in patients receiving prolonged mechanical ventilation(3~5h) during surgery with general anesthesia.
Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov ChiCTR2000029075.
Sex chromosome mechanisms in cardiac development and disease
Authors: Conlon Frank , Arnold Arthur
Published: October 2022

Many human diseases show differences between men and women in pathology and treatment outcomes. In cardiac disease, sex differences occur in the frequency of specific types of congenital and adult-onset heart disease. Clinical studies have suggested that gonadal hormones are a factor in sex bias. However, recent research has shown that gene and protein networks under non-hormonal control also account for cardiac sex differences. In this review, we describe the sex chromosome pathways that lead to sex differences in the development and function of the heart and highlight how these findings affect future care and treatment of cardiac disease.
Performance Metrics for Nanofiltration-based Selective Separation for Resource Extraction and Recovery
Authors: Wang Ruoyu , He Rongrong , He Tao , Elimelech Menachem , Lin Shihong
Published: October 2022

Membrane filtration has been widely adopted in various water treatment applications, but its use in selective solute separation for resource extraction and recovery is an emerging research area. When a membrane process is applied for solute-solute separation to extract solutes as the product, the performance metrics and process optimization strategies should differ from a membrane process for water production because of separation goals are fundamentally different. In this analysis, we used lithium (Li) magnesium (Mg) separation as a representative solute-solute separation to illustrate the deficiency of existing performance evaluation framework developed for water-solute separation using nanofiltration (NF). We performed coupon and module scale analyses of mass transfer to elucidate how membrane properties and operating conditions affect the performance of Li/Mg separation in NF. Notably, we identified an important operational tradeoff between Li/Mg selectivity and Li recovery, which is critical for process optimization. We also established a new framework for evaluating membrane performance based on the success criteria of Li purity and recovery. This analysis lays the theoretical foundation for performance evaluation and process optimization for NF-based selective solute separation.
The Relationship Between Job Stress and Patient Safety Culture among Nurses: A Systematic Review
Authors: Zabin Loai M. , Zaitoun Rasha S. Abu , Sweity Esa , Tantillo Lila
Published: October 2022

Background
Work stress is one of the leading causes of physical and mental problems among nurses and can affect patient safety. Nurses experiencing stress are more prone to make errors, which has consequences for the safety culture. This study aimed to describe the findings of studies that examined the relationship between job stress and patient safety culture among nurses.
Methods
A systematic review of published English-language articles from 2017 to 2021 was obtained through an electronic search of three large online databases (i.e., CINAHL through EBSCOhost, Medline through PubMed, and Embase). We used the Statement of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) to guide the undertaking of this review. In addition, data extraction and quality assessment were performed for the final seven quantitative articles.
Results
This review showed a significant relationship between job-related stress in its different factors, patient safety culture, and patient safety. Three studies of the seven reviewed articles examined the relationship. The rest of the studies examined the relationship indirectly, discussing factors that impacted job stress and how they affected patient safety culture. However, differences in working conditions and study characteristics affected the results of these studies and the significance of this relationship.
Conclusions
This review suggests that nursing managers and administrators should consider actions to minimize nursing job stress to the minimum levels and improve their work environment to provide the best possible patient care. Future studies are needed to develop interventions to reduce workplace stress and improve nurses' safety. Furthermore, nurses’ managers and educators should train nurses on resilience and how to work in trauma-informed care.
Trustable Decision Tree Model using Else-Tree Classifier
Authors: Tran Truong , Pusey Marc , Aygun Ramazan
Published: October 2022

With advances in machine learning and artificial intelligence, learning models have been used in many decision-making and classification applications. The nature of critical applications, which require a high level of trust in the prediction results, has motivated researchers to study classification algorithms that would minimize misclassification errors. In our study, we have developed the {\em trustable machine learning methodology} that allows the classification model to learn its limitations by rejecting the decision on cases likely yield to misclassificationsand hence produce highly confident outputs. This paper presents our trustable decision tree model through the development of the {\em Else-Tree} classifier algorithm. In contrast to the traditional decision tree models, which use a measurement of impurity to build the tree and decide class labels based on the majority of data samples at the leaf nodes, Else-Tree analyzes homogeneous regions of training data with similar attribute values and the same class label. After identifying the longest or most populated contiguous range per class, a decision node is created for that class, and the rest of the ranges are fed into theelsebranch to continue building the tree model. The Else-Tree model does not necessarily assign a class for conflicting or doubtful samples. Instead, it has an else-leaf node, led by the last else branch, to determine rejected or undecided data. The Else-Tree classifier has been evaluated and compared with other models through multiple datasets. The results show that Else-Tree can minimize the rate of misclassification.
The impact of a pharmacist intervention on post-discharge hypnotic drug discontinuation in geriatric inpatients: a before-after study
Authors: Linden Lorenz Roger Van der , Hias Julie , Liesenborghs Astrid , Walgraeve Karolien , Brantegem Pieter Van , Hellemans Laura , Milisen Koen , Tournoy Jos
Published: October 2022

Background

Chronic use of hypnotic agents is prevalent in older adults, who as a result are at increased risk for certain adverse events, such as day-time drowsiness and falls. Multiple strategies to discontinue hypnotics have been tested in geriatric patients, but evidence remains scarce. Hence, we aimed to investigate a multicomponent intervention to reduce hypnotic drug use in geriatric inpatients.

Methods

A before-after study was performed on the acute geriatric wards of a teaching hospital. The before cohort received usual care while intervention patients were exposed to a pharmacist-led deprescribing intervention, comprising education of health care personnel, access to standardized discontinuation regimens, patient education and support of transitional care. The primary outcome was hypnotic drug discontinuation at one month after discharge. Secondary outcomes among others were sleep quality and hypnotic use at one and two weeks after enrolment and at discharge. Sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) upon inclusion, two weeks after enrolment and one month after discharge. Determinants for the primary outcome were identified using regression analysis.

Results

A total of 173 patients were enrolled, with 70.5% of patients taking benzodiazepines. Average age was 85 years (interquartile range 81-88.5) and 28.3% were male. A higher discontinuation rate at one month after discharge was observed in favour of the intervention cohort (37.7% vs. 21.9%, p = 0.02281). No difference in sleep quality was found between the two cohorts (p = 0.719). The average sleep quality was 8.74 (95% confidence interval (CI): 7.98–9.49) and 8.57 (95% CI: 7.75–9.39) in the before and after cohorts respectively. Determinants for discontinuation at one month were: the intervention (odds ratio (OR) 2.36, 95% CI: 1.14–4.99), fall on admission (OR 2.05; 95% CI: 0.95–4.43), use of a z-drug (OR 0.54, 95% CI: 0.23–1.22), PSQI score on admission (OR 1.08, 95% CI: 0.97–1.19) and discontinuation prior to discharge (OR 4.71, 95% CI: 2.26–10.17).

Conclusions

A pharmacist-led intervention in geriatric inpatients was associated with a reduction of hypnotic drug use one month after discharge, without any loss in sleep quality.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05521971 (retrospectively registered on 29th of August 2022)
Biofertilizers and Silicon fertilization as a sustainable option for maize production
Authors: Besharat Sina , Pinto João Castro , Fernandes Manuela , Miguel Andreia , Cruz Cristina , Barão Lúcia
Published: October 2022

Due to the rapid growth of human population and increasing living standards, there is a continuous increase in the gap between food productivity and demand. At the same time there is a global reduction in freshwater availability for agriculture. Several options have been proposed along the way to increase water use efficiency in the field. One promising possibility is the adoption of fertilization with silicon (Si) combined with biofertilizers (microorganisms). Si is estimated to impact on the root volume and distribution, while microorganisms added to the soil in the rhizosphere also impact directly on root growth. In this work we have tested the influence of Si fertilization (magnesium silicate + diatomaceous earth) combined with biofertilizers and a reduction of 20% of NPK fertilization in the growth of maize and the soil water balance on a field trial located in Companhia das Lezírias (Portugal). Data on soil water content was collected regularly and root analysis was performed at harvest. The water balance was calculated through the model HYDRUS, using root growth model calibrated for maize in the present conditions. Results showed that using an alternative source of fertilization (Si + microbes) while reducing NPK fertilization impacted on root growth development, with roots growing more horizontally, while conventional NPK fertilization resulted in deeper roots. As a consequent, root water uptake increased and evaporation losses were lower in the treatment supplemented compared to the conventional, without compromising the yield obtained. Using biofertilizers combined with Si sources resulted in higher water use efficiency (2.64 kg m− 3) than the NPK fertilization, normally applied for maize growth (2.56 kg m− 3). The results imply that the supplementation + biofertilization allows a potential save of 206 m3 ha− 1 water and 157 kg NPK ha− 1 fertilization in a growing season keeping the same yield as obtained with the conventional NPK fertilization (18.64 ton ha− 1). Implications are high for Portuguese agriculture, where maize is one of the most important cereals cultivated, especially in Centre and Southern part of the country where water is a scarce resource.
DMA2022：Vibration control of the rail grinding vehicle with abrasive belt based on structural optimization and lightweight design
Authors: Fan Wengang , Zhang Shuai , Wu Zhiwei , Liu Yi , Yu Jiangnan
Published: October 2022

As a new grinding and maintenance technology, rail belt grinding shows significant advantages in many applications. The dynamic characteristics of the rail belt grinding vehicle largely determines its grinding performance and service life. In order to explore the vibration control method of the rail grinding vehicle with abrasive belt, the vibration response changes in structural optimization and lightweight design are respectively analyzed through transient response and random vibration simulations in this paper. Firstly, the transient response simulation analysis of the rail grinding vehicle with abrasive belt is carried out under operating conditions and non-operating conditions. Secondly, the vibration control of the grinding vehicle is implemented by setting vibration isolation elements, optimizing the structure, and increasing damping. Thirdly, in order to further explore the dynamic characteristics of the rail grinding vehicle, the random vibration simulation analysis of the grinding vehicle is carried out under the condition of the horizontal irregularity of the American AAR6 track. Finally, by replacing the Q235 steel frame material with 7075 aluminum alloy and LA43M magnesium alloy, both vibration control and lightweight design can be achieved simultaneously. The results of transient dynamic response analysis show that the acceleration of most positions in the two working conditions exceeds the standard value in GB/T 17426-1998 standard. By optimizing the structure of the grinding vehicle in three ways, the average vibration acceleration of the whole car is reduced by about 55.1% from 15.6 m/s 2 to 7.0 m/s 2 . The results of random vibration analysis show that the grinding vehicle with Q235 steel frame does not meet the safety conditions of . By changing frame material, the maximum vibration stress of the vehicle can be reduced from 240.7 Mpa to 160.0 Mpa and the weight of the grinding vehicle is reduced by about 21.7% from 1500 Kg to 1175 Kg. The modal analysis results indicate that the vibration control of the grinding vehicle can be realized by optimizing the structure and replacing the materials with lower stiffness under the premise of ensuring the overall strength. The study provides the basis for the development of lightweight, diversified and efficient rail grinding equipment.
Exploring the effects of a combined exercise programme on pain and fatigue outcomes in people with systemic sclerosis: Study protocol for a large European multi-centre randomised controlled trial.
Authors: Mitropoulos Alexandros , Boström Carina , Mattsson Malin , Kouidi Evangelia , Dimitroulas Theodoros , Vlieland Theodora P.M. Vliet , de Vries-Bouwstra Jeska K. , Liem Sophie I.E. , Jacobsen Søren , Cuomo Giovanna , Akil Mohammed , Klonizakis Markos
Published: October 2022

Background Pain, related to Raynaud’s phenomenon or digital ulceration has been identified as very prevalent and debilitating symptoms of systemic sclerosis (SSc), both significantly affecting patients’ quality of life (QoL). Pharmacological therapeutic strategies were found not to be sufficiently effective in the management of SSc-induced pain and fatigue, and evidence for exercise is scarce. As yet, the effects of a long-term, tailored exercise programme on pain and fatigue in patients with SSc have not been explored. In addition to pain and fatigue, this study aims to evaluate the effects of exercise on QoL, physical fitness, functional capacity, and vascular structure in people with SSc (PwSSc).
Methods This will be a multicentre (n=6) randomised controlled clinical trial to assess the effect of a previously established, supervised 12-week combined exercise programme on pain and fatigue as compared to no exercise in PwSSc. The study will recruit 180 patients with SSc that will be allocated randomly to two groups. Group A will perform the exercise programme parallel to standard usual care and Group B will receive usual care alone. Patients in the exercise group will undertake two, 45-min sessions each week consisting of 30 min High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) (30s 100% peak power output/30 s passive recovery) on an arm crank ergometer and 15 min of upper body circuit resistance training. Patients will be assessed before as well as at 3- and 6-months following randomisation. Primary outcomes of the study will be pain and fatigue assessed via questionnaires. Secondary outcomes include quality of life, structure of digital microvasculature, body composition, physical fitness, and functional capacity.
Discussion Data from this multi-centre research clinical trial will primarily be used to establish the effectiveness of a combined exercise protocol to improve pain and fatigue in SSc. In parallel, this study will be the first to explore the effects of long-term exercise on potential microvascular alterations assessed via NVC. Overall, this study will provide sufficient data to inform current clinical practice guidelines and may lead to an improvement of QoL for patients with SSc.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT number): NCT05234671, January 14, 2022.
Individual participation and incentive coordination in watershed ecological compensation project: Insights from China's Xin'an River Basin pilot
Authors: Jiang Ke , Wang Die , Wang Yusheng
Published: October 2022

The success or failure of executing the watershed ecological compensation (WEC) policy is primarily contingent on incentive designs. How do different contractual designs influence the actions of micro-individuals in WEC? How may individuals be enticed to engage in WEC project? Taking the first inter-provincial WEC pilot - Xin’an River Basin (XRB) in China as a case, this study investigates the impacts of government-oriented, market-oriented and incentive-cooperation contracts on individuals’ behavior based on the framework of Stackelberg games. Subsequently, differences in efforts and profits of diverse individuals are compared and analyzed for each contract. The case-specific numerical example is then utilized to validate theoretical outcomes and to support subsequent key insights. First, the government-oriented contract exhibits effectiveness in bolstering the efforts and interests of micro-individuals, whereas it also places the government under tremendous financial strain. Second, the market-oriented contract formed by the output contribution rate assists in overcoming deficiencies of excurrent government-oriented contract. But it remains controversial if, in the absence of government inspection, investors that devote more cooperative efforts are not rewarded with further dividends, ultimately diminishing their enthusiasm for the WEC-XRB project. Lastly, the incentive-cooperation contract reinforced by market dominance is advantageous for improving the efficacy of water resource management under the existing government-oriented policy relying on command-and-control instruments.
A novel parameter sampling method efficiently uncovers unique properties for sets of mathematical models
Authors: Kravtsova Natalia , Chamberlin Helen , Dawes Adriana
Published: October 2022

Mathematical models of complex systems rely on parameter values to produce a desired behaviour such as bistability. As mathematical and computational models increase in complexity, it becomes correspondingly difficult to find parameter values that satisfy system constraints. Here we propose a novel method for generating a large number of simulation outcomes using the Markov-chain based algorithm that we term the Modified Metropolis-Hastings (MMH). We provide rigorous proof of the MMH properties and demonstrate that MMH is more efficient for parameter generation than current algorithms, especially for complex models with high-dimensional parameter space and/or diverse outputs. We apply the method to a model of protein phosphorylation to discover characteristic dynamics that identify the mechanism of bistability in protein levels. Our application shows that the proposed methodology can be used to provide unique information about a complex system using the parameters generated by MMH.
Response comparison of different staggered story isolated structures under long-term earthquake
Authors: Liu Lin , Liu Dewen , Zhang Lanfang , Li Qi , Lei Min
Published: October 2022

The staggered story isolated structure is a new type of isolated structure developed from the base isolated structure.It has great isolation performance under ordinary earthquakes.However, the problem of long-term earthquakes exists in many areas. The prolongation of the natural vibration period of the structure and the resonance caused by the low-frequency part of the long-term earthquakes should not be ignored. The research on the response of the staggered story isolated structure under the long-term earthquakes is not perfect.Two finite element models of staggered story isolated structure were established and non-linear time-history response analysis were carried out under ordinary earthquakes and long-term earthquakes,which including near-fault pulse-type long-term earthquakes and far-field harmonic-like long-term earthquakes.Results show that the natural vibration period of the staggered story isolated structure is prolonged,the seismic response is reduced.Under long-term earthquakes,the story drift angle,bearing displacement,story shear,plastic hinges and stress damage of staggered story isolated structure are partly larger than those of ordinary earthquakes.Under the far-field harmonic-like earthquakes,isolation performance is significantly different from those under the near-fault pulse-type earthquakes.And there are significant differences between the two models.The structure has the characteristics of vertically irregular structures and the weak position of the structure is located near the isolation layer,so more attention should be paid to the project.
FSCN1/METTL3/TLN1 axis promotes the malignant progression in bladder carcinoma
Authors: Sun Siqing , Liu Shuangjie , Wang Jianfeng , Bi Jianbin
Published: October 2022

Background The RNA-binding protein (RBP) played an important role in tumors. FSCN1 functioned as an oncogene in bladder carcinoma (BLCA). FSCN1 has not been reported as an RBP in BLCA. The mechanism by which FSCN1 promoted BLCA invasion and metastasis has remained unclear. Methods The FSCN1-bound RNAs in BLCA cell lines were identified using RIP-sequencing. The regulatory relationship between FSCN1 and METTL3 or TLN1 was verified by RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), RNA pulldown assay, co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP), western blotting, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and immunofluorescence. The metastatic abilities of the BCLA cells were evaluated byin vitrowound healing and transwell assays, as well asin vivomodels. Results TLN1 protein levels were higher in BLCA tissues compared to the paired para-tumor tissues, whereas its mRNA expression was lower in the tumors. Mechanistically, FSCN1 bound to and upregulated METTL3, which in turn repressed TLN1 mRNA expression through the latter’s 3'UTR. In addition, FSCN1 bound to the CDS region of TLN1 mRNA and promoted its translation. Knocking down FSCN1, METTL3 and TLN1 individually had an inhibitory effect on the proliferation, invasion, migration and metastasis of BLCA cells. Conclusions FSCN1 functions as an RBP to promote proliferation, invasion and migration of BLCA cells. The FSCN1/METTL3/TLN1 axis is a potential therapeutic target for BLCA.
Breast Cancer Awareness among Sudanese Females in Omdurman city: 2021
Authors: Rafat Munir , Sabir Mustafa
Published: October 2022

Background:
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed malignancy among women worldwide(1). In contrast to Europe, it presents generally very late in Africa. As with the rest of Africa, it is the most common primary malignancy of females in Sudan, and generally presents in stage III or IV disease(2). This study is intended to analyse the level of breast cancer awareness among women of Sudan.
Objective:
To assess the level of awareness of breast cancer among Sudanese females, and their attitude towards breast changes. Also, to establish possible associations between several variables: (education level, age, contact with a breast cancer patient, residence) on awareness.
Methodology:
A descriptive cross-sectional community-based study of 385 females in Omdurman city, selected by convenient sampling. An interview based Arabic version of Breast Cancer Awareness Measure (BCAM) was used. Data was coded and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) v.20
Results:
A total of 385 females were included, of which 38.7% were 20-30 years, 47.8% were single, 53.8% had university education, 41% of them were currently unemployed, and 54.3% resided in Ummbadda’s locality. When asked about the signs and risk factors of breast cancer, 55.06% and 55.8% failed to name any. The cumulative percentage of correct answers of close-ended question about signs, risk factors and Federal Ministry of Health (FMoH) screening program were 42.8%, 30.7% and 44.7% in that order. Only 38.2% knew the right method BSE, 48.2% of them rarely practiced it. 38.2% noticed a change in the breast tissue but didn’t visit a doctor. The majority of them, though, said they would see a doctor if they noticed a change in the future.
Conclusion:
There is a severe lack of awareness of breast cancer among females of the Sudanese society. Also, there was a clear ignorant attitude practiced by a significant proportion of the candidates.
Recommendations:Further research, to address the limitations of this study is to be done. FMoH has to improve its media massage and arrange targeted awareness campaigns
Central Serous Chorioretinopathy in a 14-Year-Old Atopic Boy: A Case Report.
Authors: Ranno Stefano , Fontanel Liviana , Ruggiero Edoardo , Nucci Paolo , Radice Paolo , Donati Simone
Published: October 2022

Background
Corticosteroids are widely used in medicine. Few cases of central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) have been reported following topical corticosteroid administration. We describe the first case of pediatric CSC related to topical corticosteroid administration.
Case presentation
A 14-year-old boy presented with decreased vision, pigment epithelial detachments, and serous retinal detachments in the right eye after starting treatment for atopic dermatitis with Betamethasone Valerate 0.1% topical ointment. His condition resolved 2 weeks after discontinuing the steroid and administering Bromfenac 0.9 mg/ml eyedrops.
Conclusions
Although the pathogenesis of CSC is poorly understood, ophthalmologists should be informed about the potential link between CSC and topical corticosteroid treatment, and they should be aware that CSC might, albeit infrequently, affect children.
Internationalisation of Medical Education in China: An Investigation of Medical Graduates’ Global Competence and its influencing factors
Authors: Jiang Qin , Song Xiaokang , Wang Ke , Yue Cailing , Sun Hong , Zhang Zhuoqi , Hu Bin , Li Hui , Miao Gugen , Miao Chunxia , Duan Wei , Liu Shenjun
Published: October 2022

Background：Global competence has become an important competence for medical graduates in the globalised world. However, no research has been made to measure their global competence. This study intends to fill the gap and look into the influencing factors, with the purpose to raise proposals helping students prepared with this competence in the globalised labor market.
Methods: An on-line questionnaire was administered to China medical graduates sampled from four institutions of medical education. Data was retrieved and incorporated into a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet. Data analysis was done by using SPSS. Descriptive statistics was made to analyze the level of medical graduates global competence. Influencing factors were investigated using multiple linear regression.
Results: The sample had a relatively good level of global competence in general, but lacked skills in cross-cultural communication and international academic communication. We also found that “Internationalisation Concept and System” and “International Development of Teachers” in the school dimension and “Taking International Courses”, “International Publication” and “Participation in International Conference” in the dimension of individual international involvement had a significant positive impact on the cultivation of global competence.
Conclusions: The development of medical graduates global competence is closely related to the university. Institutions of medical education should aim for the construction of an effective institutional mechanism for internationalisation to help improve students’ global competence.
Traumatic Kidney Injury: A 6 -Year Retrospective Study in Childhood and Adolescence
Authors: Palinrungi Muhammad Asykar , Christeven Robert , Faruk Muhammad
Published: October 2022

Introduction
Traumatic kidney injuries are the most common urinary tract injuries. Pediatric patients are more susceptible to renal injury from blunt trauma than adults because of anatomic factors. The aim of this publication was to provide a reference for traumatic kidney injury in the pediatric group based on the study in our center.
Methods
A retrospective study was conducted from January 2014 to December 2019 to review medical records of children admitted with renal trauma. Relevant findings, including demographics, mechanisms and grades of injury, clinical parameters, interventions, and outcomes were recorded.
Results
Thirty-three pediatric patients were investigated. Males experienced traumatic kidney injury more often than the female with a ratio of 10:1. Most cases occurred during the adolescent (12–18) years (81.82%). Left side kidney injury (63.64%) was more frequent than right side (36.36%). Most cases (96.97%) were caused by blunt trauma, mainly traffic accidents (81.82%). Most patients (90.91%) had stable hemodynamics. Grade IV kidney injury was the most frequently found injury (39.39%). The cause of renal function disturbance was based on the blood urea nitrogen/creatinine (BUN/Cr) ratio with 21.87% of patients suffering from intra-renal causes and 12.5% from pre-renal causes. No significant association between different grades and BUN/creatinine ratio was found. Isolated renal injuries were found in 54.54% of patients. Most patients were treated conservatively (87.88%), and survival was 96.97%.
Conclusion
Non-operative management is safe and and yields good outcomes in kidney trauma patients with stable hemodynamics. Renal trauma severity is not associated with the BUN/Cr ratio.
In Vitro and in Vivo Studies of Folate-Functionalized PEGylated Chitosan/Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticle for the Fibrosarcoma-Targeted Delivery of Paclitaxel
Authors: Al-Obaidy Rusul , Haider Adawiya J. , Al-Musawi Sharafaldin , Arsad Norhana
Published: October 2022

Fibrosarcoma is a rare type of cancer that affects cells known as fibroblasts that is malignant, locally recurring, spreading tumor in fibrous. In this work, an iron plate immersed in an aqueous solution of double-added deionized water, supplemented with potassium permanganate solution (KMnO4) was carried out by pulsed-laser removal method. Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) were synthesized using different laser wavelengths (1064, 532, and 266 nm) at a fluence of 28 J/cm2 with 100 shots of the iron plate to control the concentration, shape, and size of the prepared high-stability SPIONs. The drug nanocarrier was synthesized by coating SPION with paclitaxel (PTX)-loaded chitosan (Cs) and polyethylene glycol (PEG). This nanosystem was functionalized by folate (FA) targeting receptors. The physiochemical characteristics of SPION@Cs-PTX-PEG-FA nanoparticles were evaluated and confirmed by infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, electron diffraction, atomic force microscopy, and dynamic light scattering methods. The cell internalization, cytotoxicity assay, apoptosis induction, and gene expression of SPION@Cs-PTX-PEG-FA in fibrosarcoma cell lines were estimated respectively. In vivo studies utilized BALB/c tumor-bearing mice. Results showed that SPION@Cs-PTX-PEG-FA exhibited suitable physical stability, spherical shape, desirable size, and charge. The SPION@Cs-PTX-PEG-FA inhibited the proliferation and induced the apoptosis of cancer cells (P < 0.01). In vivo study results showed that SPION@Cs -PTX-PEG-FA decreased the tumor size significantly compared with free PTX and control samples (P < 0.05), leading to longer survival, significantly enhanced splenocyte proliferation and IFN-γ level, and significantly diminished IL-4 level. All these findings indicated the potential of SPION@Cs-PTX-PEG-FA as an antitumor therapeutic agent.
Numerical analysis of direct-current (DC) plasma processing for high efficient steel surface modification
Authors: Wei Xinyang , Xu Fangda , Bennett Adam , Swan Julian , Pulsford Jamie , Chen Guoda , Yu Nan
Published: October 2022

Nowadays, direct-current (dc) non-transferred arc plasma torch has drawn significant interest from both academia and industry due to the capability to process products in an efficient and convenient way. The core of this technology is to clarify and manipulate the arc behavior at the interior of the torch and produces ideal plasma jets for processing. To solve this problem, a quasi-steady axisymmetric model is built to simulate and compare the arc characteristics in different operating conditions and different nozzle structures. The results uncover distinct aspects of the study on arc characteristics, including the detection of the region of primary arc attachment, the effect of changing operating conditions, and the choking effect caused by torch structure. The thermal efficiency focused on processing substrate is also calculated in this paper. The results show that increasing mass flow rate brings better thermal efficiency, whereas improving the arc current value causes the opposite result. Meanwhile, two types of nozzle are discussed by thermal efficiency, and the wide nozzle is chosen for torch optimization due to its high power efficiency. The secondary arc attachment on the metal substrate is discovered, but its effect on the processing could be ignored for the extremely low electric current value.
Survivable SFC deployment method based on federated learning in multi-domain networks
Authors: Qu Hua , Wang Ke , Zhao Jihong
Published: October 2022

In the multi-domain network scenario, in order to improve the survivability of service function chain in the face of network failure, most methods solve this problem through virtual network function backup mechanism. However, the traditional multi-domain SFC deployment method lacks a SFC partition mechanism for backup resource consumption, and does not consider the isolation and privacy requirements between different network domains. In view of the above problems, this paper proposes a reliability partition scheme based on reinforcement learning in SFC partition stage, which can ensure that VNF is backed up while maintaining good load balance and low inter-domain transmission delay, and improve the reliability of SFC. Then, this paper proposes a VNF backup mechanism with minimum resource fluctuation in the VNF mapping stage, and uses the ILP model to determine the backup scheme of each VNF, so as to ensure the minimum fluctuation of resource occupancy of the entire network. Finally, this paper proposes a multi-domain SFC deployment and backup algorithm based on Federated learning (FA-MSDB). Each domain is trained locally to improve the load balance of node resources and reduce the transmission delay in the domain, the global and local models are updated periodically to deploy and backup VNF requests. The experimental results indicate that compared with other three version of FA-MSDB and other three benchmark algorithms, FA-MSDB can effectively improve the survival rate of SFC, reduce the overall transmission delay, and ensure good inter-domain and intra-domain load balance.