bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reanalysis of whole-exome sequencing (WES) data of children with neurodevelopmental disorders in a standard patient care context
Authors: Slobbe Michelle van , Haeringen Arie van , Vissers Lisenka E.L.M. , Bijlsma Emilia K. , Rutten Julie W. , Suerink Manon , Nibbeling Esther A.R. , Ruivenkamp Claudia A.L. , Koene Saskia
Published: August 2023

Purpose This study aims to inform future genetic reanalysis management by evaluating the yield of whole exome sequencing (WES)-reanalysis in standard patient care in the Netherlands.Methods Single-center data of 159 patients with a neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD), in which WES-analysis and -reanalysis was performed between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2021 was retrospectively collected. Patients were included if they were under the age of 18 years at initial analysis, and if this initial analysis did not result in a diagnosis. Demographic, phenotypic and genotypic characteristics of patients were collected and analyzed. An overview of the technique used, yield and organization of WES-reanalysis in daily care in the 7 genetic departments in the Netherlands was obtained by a questionnaire study. The primary outcomes were (i) diagnostic yield at reanalysis, (ii) reasons for detecting a new possibly causal variant at reanalysis, (iii) unsolicited findings, and (iv) factors associated with positive result of reanalysis.Results In most cases, WES-reanalysis was initiated by the clinical geneticist (65%) or treating physician (30%). The mean time between initial WES analysis and reanalysis was 3.7 years. A new (likely) pathogenic variant or VUS with a clear link to the phenotype was found in 20 initially negative cases, resulting in a diagnostic yield of 12.6%. In 75% of these patients the diagnosis had clinical consequences, as for example a screening plan for associated signs and symptoms could be devised. Most (32%) of the (likely) causal variants identified at WES-reanalysis were discovered due to a newly described gene-disease association. In addition to the 12.6% diagnostic yield based on new diagnoses, reclassification of a variant of uncertain significance found at initial analysis led to a definite diagnosis in three patients. Diagnostic yield was higher in patients with dysmorphic features compared to patients without clear dysmorphic features (yield 27% vs. 6%; p = 0.001).Conclusions Our results show that WES-reanalysis in patients with NDD in standard patient care leads to a substantial increase in genetic diagnoses. In the majority of newly diagnosed patients, the diagnosis had clinical consequences. Knowledge about the clinical impact of WES-reanalysis, clinical characteristics associated with higher yield and yield per year after a negative WES in larger clinical cohorts is warranted to inform guidelines for genetic reanalysis. These guidelines will be of great value for pediatricians, pediatric rehabilitation specialists and pediatric neurologists in daily care of patients with NDD.
Clostridium botulinum C3bot mediated effects on cytokine-induced psoriasis-like phenotype in full-thickness skin model
Authors: Rohrbeck Astrid , Bruhn Vanessa Anna , Hussein Nali , Hagemann Sandra , Just Ingo
Published: August 2023

Clostridium botulinum C3 exoenyzme (C3bot) exclusively inhibits RhoA, B and C by ADP-ribosylation and is therefore used as a cell permeable tool for investigating the cellular role of these Rho-GTPases. Rho-GTPases represent a molecular switch integrating different receptor signalling to downstream cascades including transcriptional cascades that regulate various cellular processes, such as regulation of actin cytoskeleton and cell proliferation. C3bot-induced inhibition of RhoA leading to reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton, morphological changes as well as C3-mediated inhibition of cell proliferation and modulation of inflammatory response. In this study, we characterized the C3bot-mediated effects on a full-thickness skin model exhibiting a psoriasis-like phenotype through the addition of cytokines. Indeed, after addition of cytokines, a decrease in epidermal thickness, parakeratosis and induction of IL-6 was detected. In the next step, it was studied whether C3bot caused a reduction in the cytokine-induced psoriasis-like phenotypes. Basal addition of C3bot after cytokine induction of the full-thickness skin models, caused less epidermal thinning and reduced IL-6 abundance. Simultaneous basal incubation with cytokines and C3bot, IL-6 abundance was inhibited but epidermal thickness was only moderately affected. When C3bot was added apically to the skin model, IL-6 abundance was reduced but no further effects on the psoriasis-like phenotype of the epidermis were observed. In summary, C3bot inhibits the cytokine-induced expression of IL-6 and thus may have an impact on the pro-inflammatory immune response in psoriasis-like phenotype.
Parametric pushover curve model for seismic performance assessment of building stock
Authors: Fazarinc Neja , Babič Anže , Dolšek Matjaž
Published: August 2023

An effective assessment of the seismic risk of building stock is important for informing stakeholders and developing strategies to improve community seismic resilience. To address this need, a parametric pushover curve model for seismic performance assessment of building stock is introduced. The model employs twelve parameters for estimating the trilinear pushover curve. The models of these parameters are developed specifically for reinforced concrete and masonry buildings in Slovenia by focusing on the low level of knowledge about the building. Consequently, it can be used for preliminary studies of seismic performance assessment of building stock to raise awareness about seismic risk. To evaluate its efficacy, the model was applied to assess the seismic performance of the University of Ljubljana’s building stock. Because of uncertainties arising from the lack of knowledge about the buildings and the associated assumptions, the results were interpreted relative to those obtained for a new building stock scenario. The case study revealed that the seismic capacity in terms of the limit state peak ground acceleration of the building stock is only half of what would be expected in the new building stock scenario, highlighting a significant seismic risk. These findings emphasise the need for systematic efforts to enhance the seismic safety of the building stock under consideration. Further research is recommended to explore the model's accuracy concerning the level of knowledge about the building, which will contribute to a better understanding of its applicability.
Are end colostomies always contraindicated in anorectal malformations?
Authors: Brisighelli Giulia , Theron Andre P , Westgarth-Taylor Chris , Mapunda Ellen M
Published: August 2023

Purpose In our clinical setting, a three-staged approach is consistently employed for the management of patients with anorectal malformations (ARMs). The aim of our study is to evaluate the safety and feasibility of end-colostomies in specific subtypes of ARMs.Methods The medical records of babies born with an ARM treated between 01 January 2017 till 31 December 2022 were reviewed. Information regarding type of ARM, type of colostomy and complications at formation of colostomy, posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP), and colostomy closure was recorded.Results 194 patients were included: 137 patients had divided colostomies with distal mucus fistulas (DC) and 57 had end-colostomies (EC). Ninety-seven patients (50%) had perineal and vestibular fistulas: 40(42%) had DC and 57(58%) had EC. Post-colostomy formation, 8(20%) complications were recorded in the DC group 9(16%) and 8(20%) in the EC group(p-value:0.78). Wound sepsis presented in 6 patients with DC and 4 with EC(p-value:0.3). 16/85 patients (19%) that had a PSARP developed complications: 4/37(11%) with DC and 12/48(25%) with EC(p-value:0.16). Six(8%) complications occurred post 72 stoma reversal: 3 in DC and 3 in EC group.Conclusion In patients with rectoperineal and vestibular fistulas, where divided colostomies are not warranted, end colostomies provide a safe alternative.
A novel method on estimating financial consequences of derailment accidents caused by track defections using the Extra Trees method
Authors: Shams Mohammad M. , Aghaee Mohsen Pourseyed , Mohammadzadeh Saeed
Published: August 2023

The balance between budgeting and retaining the optimum performance of railway infrastructure has gained significant importance. Due to the expansion of railway networks, high maintenance costs, and limited budgets, prioritizing maintenance operations takes time and effort. On the other hand, derailments are one of the most essential types of rail accidents worldwide. Derailments are usually caused by railway track defects, machinery, or human error. According to the high importance of railway track effect on derailment accidents, the financial consequences of derailment accidents caused by track defections in Iranian’s railway network are analyzed in this paper. In this regard, an original data frame of 9750 accidents with 181 features for each related accident is used. The most important track-relevant attributes affecting accidents’ consequences are selected using various feature ranking methods, namely Recursive Feature Elimination (RFE), Mutual Information (MI), and Classification and Regression Trees (CART). The top features are speed limit, track age, maximum upgrade, and steep index. Then different types of regression Machine Learning (ML) models were implemented. The extra trees model was selected for its proper efficiency based on the Normalized Root Mean Square Error (NRMSE) metric to estimate the financial consequences of rail derailment accidents. The presented model can estimate the financial consequences of derailment accidents caused by track defects with an NRMSE of 18.2%. The results of the proposed model can be used for prioritizing maintenance works and budget allocation by ranking railway blocks based on their potential accident consequences.
The relationship between atmosphere temperature inversion and urban air pollution characteristics: A case for study Tehran, Iran
Authors: Nejad Meysam Toulabi , Ghalehteimouri Kamran Jafarpour , Dolatshahi Zeynab
Published: August 2023

This research aims to comprehensively assess the level of air pollution in Tehran, identify the primary sources of pollution, and explore potential solutions to mitigate this problem. To achieve this understanding, data was collected from Mehrabad station in Tehran city. In order to analyze the data and determine the dynamic and thermodynamic properties of the atmosphere, the research utilized the Universal radio sound Observation (RAOB) program. This program enabled the examination of the atmospheric properties up to an altitude of 750 meter during the selected days. Specifically, the research focused on three dates: January 22, 2014; January 25, 2015; and November 27, 2016. These dates were chosen as they represented the most polluted days, considering Tehran's seasonal variations and the adverse effects of cold weather and temperature drops on air pollution. The analysis of the collected data was performed using an equation that demonstrates the characteristics of the air temperature inversion profile. To assess the effects of atmospheric inversion on air pollution, the Heffter method was employed in this research. This method aimed to provide insights into how inversions impact air quality in Tehran. The results obtained from the analysis highlighted specific conditions on January 25, 2015, which was identified as the most polluted date. During the radiation inversion, the altitude above sea level measured 1227 meters, with an altitude above ground level of 36 meters. The potential temperature was recorded as 890 meter, relative humidity as 0%, and temperature as 2°C at pressure base (P1). At base altitude H1, the potential temperature at 886 meter, relative humidity was 36%, and temperature was 3°C. Additionally, the wind speed was measured at 2.1 m/s, wind direction at 280 degrees, and the inversion depth was calculated to be 18 meters.
Public Health Implications of Household Water Sources in the Kumasi Metropolis, Ghana. A Case Study
Authors: Jonathan Awewomom , Peasah Michael Yaw , Yaw Agyei Gyasi , Duodu Takyi Yaw , Antwi Sampson Achagwe , Stephen Ayisi-Larbi , Kwabena Opoku Adomako , Opoku Francis , Akoto Osei
Published: August 2023

This research investigated the health implications of household water sources in the Kumasi Metropolis, Ghana, analyzing water quality in 23 different households (HS). Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA), and spatial distribution analysis were used to uncover valuable insights into the underlying relationships and patterns within the dataset. The findings revealed critical concerns regarding heavy metal concentrations in certain locations: in Appiadu (HS17), both Cu and Pb concentrations exceeded the maximum acceptable limits, suggesting potential Cu and Pb toxicity in household water. Particularly, HS17 exhibited poor water quality, primarily due to high Pb (0.03 mg/L) and Cu (1.65 mg/L) concentrations, surpassing permissible limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO). Moreover, the presence of nitrite in Atonsu Kyepatre (HS13) surpassed the maximum acceptable limit set by the WHO. Conversely, other samples (HS1 – HS16 and HS18 – HS23) demonstrated excellent water quality. The microbial assessment of Ghanaian household water samples unveiled varying counts of total coliforms, indicating potential sewage contamination. Although some sites met acceptable standards for total coliform counts, 13 sites displayed undesirable counts. The health risk estimates revealed that, the hazard quotient (HQ) for Cu ingestion, which revealed values of 2.76 and 1.30 for children and adults, respectively, surpassing the safe limit of 1. Similarly, hazard index (HI) values for adults and children were recorded as 1.79 and 3.80, respectively, indicating significant health risks to consumers. These findings provide valuable insights for other regions facing similar water quality concerns, ensuring the health and well-being of communities worldwide.
Effect of communication mode on disclosure of nutrition impact symptoms during nutrition intervention delivered to people with upper gastrointestinal cancer
Authors: Furness Kate , Huggins Catherine E. , Hanna Lauren , Croagh Daniel , Sarkies Mitchell , Haines Terry P.
Published: August 2023

IntroductionIndividuals diagnosed with upper gastrointestinal cancers experience a myriad of symptoms directly related to their tumour burden and antineoplastic therapies. Many of these nutrition impact symptoms (NIS) including nausea, anorexia, pain, dysphagia, and diarrhoea, compromise a person’s ability to adequately meet their nutritional requirements leading to malnutrition, reduced quality of life and poorer survival. Electronic health (eHealth) has been lauded as a potential strategy for improving the delivery of nutrition interventions by improving early and sustained access to dietitiansto address both NIS and malnutrition. This study aimed to explore whether the mode of nutrition intervention delivery (telephone or mobile app) affected participant disclosure of NIS during an early and intensive nutrition intervention.MethodsParticipants in the intervention groups received a regular nutrition intervention for 18 weeks from a dietitian via telephone or mobile application (App). The research dietitian maintained a set of participant records, collecting data from each week of intervention delivery including reported NIS. Poisson regression determined the proportion of individuals who reported NIS compared between groups. Univariate and multiple regression analyses of demographic variables were used to explore the relationship between demographics and reporting of NIS. The trial was registered prospectively on the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (Trial ID: ACTRN12617000152325 27th January 2017).ResultsThe incidence of reporting of NIS was more than 1.8 times higher in the telephone group (n=38) compared to the mobile app group (n=36). Telephone group allocation also predicted a higher likelihood of disclosure of self-reported symptoms of fatigue, nausea, and anorexia throughout the intervention period.ConclusionCaution should be applied when introducing virtual health care approaches as standard of care. A trusting therapeutic relationship built on human connection is fundamental and may not be achieved with current models of mobile health technologies. Incorporation of video and/or telephone interaction is likely to be imperative in establishing this connection between patients and health care providers.
Validation of the Portuguese version of the Scleroderma Health Assessment Questionnaire
Authors: Genrinho Inês , Ferreira Pedro L. , Santiago Tânia , Carones Adriana , Mazeda Carolina , Barcelos Anabela , Beirão Tiago , Costa Flávio , Santos Inês , Couto Maura , Rato Maria , Terroso Georgina , Monteiro Paulo
Published: August 2023

Background The Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI) was completed with five visual analogue scales (VAS) to assess systemic sclerosis (SSc). These VAS address overall disease severity, Raynaud’s phenomenon, digital tip ulcers, gastrointestinal and lung symptoms. The new functional measurement instrument is called Scleroderma HAQ (SHAQ). It aims to perform a validation of the European Portuguese version of SHAQ for patients with SSc.Methods Patients with different forms of SSc from five Hospital Centres’ Rheumatology Departments were invited. The reliability of the Portuguese SHAQ was evaluated by internal consistency, using the Cronbach’s α, and by test-retest reliability, using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Construct validity was assessed by structural validity using factor analysis, and by known-groups hypotheses tests. Criterion validity was addressed by Pearson’s correlation with selected dimensions from the University of California Los Angeles Scleroderma Clinical Trial Consortium Gastrointestinal Tract Instrument (UCLA GIT 2.0), the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36v2), and the EuroQoL EQ-5D-5L.Results One hundred and two SSc patients agreed to participate, 31 of which answered to the retest. HAQ-DI demonstrated high internal consistency reliability (α=0.866) and the same measure and all five VAS also showed high test-retest reliability (ICC 0.61–0.95). In what concerns construct validity, we evidenced the unidimensionality of all VAS. HAQ-DI evidenced to be worse in males, patients older than 65 years and individuals with a diffuse form of SSc. Criterion validity was mainly evidenced through the correlation between HAQ-DI and SF-36v2 physical summary measure (r=-0.688) and EQ-5D-5L index score (r=-0.723). Likewise, SHAQ overall disease severity VAS was also correlated with SF-36v2 physical summary measure (r=-0.628). Because SHAQ is a functional disability measure, mental scores correlations were smaller. With the exception of Raynaud’s VAS, all the other VAS correlated well with similar clinical variables.Conclusion This paper provides evidence to demonstrate how reliable and valid the European Portuguese version of SHAQ is, to be used in SSc patients to assess the clinical severity under the perspective of patients.
Blast Wave Mitigation Through Confined Volume and Porous Material
Authors: Sundararaj Aldin Justin , Venkatachalam S , Lewise Anton Savio , Rakhi R A
Published: August 2023

Over a period of time, the impact of shock waves on human bodies and structures has been studied. To understand the shock wave mitigation over confined volume and porous material, an experimental study is carried out using a shock tube. For the current study, shock velocities ranging from 500 m/s to 650 m/s are created in the tube. The normal shock pressure ranged from 1.1 to 2.8 bar, and the reflected shock pressure ranged from 4.3 to 8 bar in the closed tube. High-frequency PCB pressure transducers is used to measure shock pressure. Three different methods are studied to understand the shock wave mitigation through a confined volume. The methods are perforated bodies with 30%, 40%, and 50% of circular cross section on one side and closed at other end, porous compressible materials kept outside the shock tube to understand head on collision of shock wave and head on shock wave impact on porous material sandwich between the two plates. The number of times the shockwave travelled is highest in the least porous material. On direct shock impact porous compressible material such as glass wool foam, rubber foam is observed to be shredded off, whereas polyurethane foam was comparatively stable. When sandwiching between the two thin plates, it is observed that the shock loading is more on the glass wool foam, less on the rubber foam and the least on the polyurethane foam. It can be concluded that shock waves can be attenuated by perforating bodies, and further impact of the shock can be reduced by materials having blast mitigation properties.
Uncovering the Inheritance Mechanisms of Yield and Oil Content in Castor (Ricinus communis L.): A 21-Generation Study
Authors: Delvadiya I. R. , Madariya R. B. , Ginoya A. V. , Patel J. R.
Published: August 2023

This groundbreaking study is the first of its kind to investigate the genetic effects on seed yield and its constituent characters in castor, and specifically to explore linked digenic interactions in this crop species. The study used twenty-one generations, including P1, P2, F1, F2, F3, B1, B2, B11, B12, B21, B22, B1S, B2S, B1 x F1, B2 x F1, F2 x P1, F2 x P2, F2 x F1, B1 bip, B2 bip, and F2 bip, from two crosses of castor: SKI-346 × JI-35 (cross-1) and SKI-346 × SKI-215 (cross-2). The results of the study shed new light on the inheritance of these characters and provide valuable information for future research in this field. Special scaling tests were used to assess the significance of genetic effects, and the results showed that most of the characters exhibited significant genetic effects, including epistasis, which suggests that the expression of these characters was influenced by interactions between genes. Additionally, higher order epistasis and/or linkage were detected, indicating that the expression of these characters was also affected by interactions among multiple genes. The study found that duplicate type of epistasis was responsible for the inheritance of seed yield and its constituent characters in the two crosses of castor. A recommendation to improve the seed yield of castor is to utilize a combination of recurrent selection and pedigree breeding approaches over several cycles.
Cannabis use and its psychosocial correlates among school-going adolescents in Sierra Leone.
Authors: Osborne Leone. Augustus , James Peter Bai , Olorunsaiye Comfort Z. , Bangura Camilla , Lebbie Aiah
Published: August 2023

Background: Adolescents who use cannabis are more prone to participate in risky activities, such as taking other drugs, doing poorly in school, and exhibiting psychotic symptoms. No recent estimates of cannabis use and its correlates among adolescents have been documented in Sierra Leone. This study aimed to examine the prevalence of cannabis use and to determine its associated factors among school-going adolescents in Sierra Leone.
Method: We analyzed secondary data from the 2017 Sierra Leone Global School-Based Health Survey. We used bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis to determine the factors associated with cannabis usage.
Results: The result showed that the prevalence of cannabis use was 4.3% among school-going adolescents in Sierra Leone. Males [aOR= 2.956, 95% CI = 1.169-7.603], alcohol use [aOR= 3.379, 95% CI = 1.208-9.448], ever used amphetamines or methamphetamines [aOR= 20.469, 95% CI = 8.905-47.053], suicidal attempt [aOR= 4.180, 95% CI = 1.468-11.905] and sexual risk behaviour [aOR= 2.798, 95% CI = 1.369-5.717] were associated cannabis use.
Conclusion: The use of cannabis is prevalent among Sierra Leonean in-school adolescents. School-based health intervention programmes should be developed, considering the risk factors associated with cannabis use among adolescents.
Out of hospital cardiac arrest treated with prehospital double sequential external defibrillation during eCPR in refractory VF – a case report
Authors: Katzenschlager Stephan , Heck Raphael , Popp Erik , Weilbacher Frank , Weigand Markus A. , Eisner Christoph , Neuhaus Christopher
Published: August 2023

Double sequential external defibrillation (DSED) has demonstrated increased survival with good neurological outcome in a recent randomized controlled trial. DSED has not been studied in patients with extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (eCPR). We present the first case of prehospital eCPR with ongoing refractory ventricular fibrillation (VF), terminated by DSED. After six shocks return of spontaneous circulation was initially achieved, however the patient went into recurrent VF. ECPR was performed prehospitally, with VF still refractory after three shocks. DSED successfully terminated VF and showed a further increase in etCO2 and near-infrared spectroscopy cerebral oximetry values.
Chronic lactate treatment promotes cardiomyocyte cytoskeleton remodelling
Authors: Luti Simone , Militello Rosamaria , Pinto Gabriella , Illiano Anna , Marzocchini Riccardo , Santi Alice , Becatti Matteo , Amoresano Angela , Gamberi Tania , Pellegrino Alessio , Modesti Alessandra , Modesti Pietro Amedeo
Published: August 2023

Physical activity is an important regulator of energy homeostasis and helps the improvement of metabolic health lowering the risk for a broad variety of health problems. The driving force of the good health impact of exercise is the new established metabolism in people who practise regular physical activity; in fact, regular physical movement induces a wide variety of molecular adaptations in skeletal muscle and in the whole body. In previous studies performed on elite players, we found that adaptation to exercises is characterized by a chronic high plasma level of lactate. By shuttling between producer and consumer cells, lactate is considered not only an energy source but also a signalling molecule and is referred to as a “lactormone”. In this work, we investigated the effect of exogenous lactate in human cardiomyocyte cell line AC16 assessing their viability, cell cycle activity, oxidative stress and metabolism by a proteomic and metabolomic approach. Interestingly, our data indicated that cardiomyocytes exposed to chronic lactate treatment (72 h) show change in several proteins and metabolites linked to cell hypertrophy and cytoskeleton remodelling.
Bromelain and Ficin proteolytic effects on gliadin cytotoxicity and expression of genes involved in cell-tight junctions in Caco-2 cells
Authors: Maleki Masoumeh Sadat Mousavi , Abadi Hooman Aghamirza Moghim Ali , Vaziri Behrooz , Shabani Ali Akbar , Ghavami Ghazaleh , Madanchi Hamid , Sardari Soroush
Published: August 2023

Enzyme therapy for Celiac disease (CeD), which digests gliadin into non-immunogenic and non-toxic peptides, can be an appropriate treatment option for CeD. Here we have investigated the effectiveness of Bromelain and Ficin on gliadin digestion using in vitro such as SDS-PAGE, HPLC, and circular dichroism (CD). Furthermore, the cytotoxicity of gliadin and 19-mer peptide before and after digestion with these enzymes was evaluated using the MTT assay in the Caco-2 cell line. Finally, we examined the effect of these treatments along with Larazotide Acetate (LA) on the expression of genes involved in cell tight junctions such as Occludin (OCCL), Claudin 3 (CLDN), Tight junction protein-1 (TGP), and Zonulin (ZON) in the Caco-2 cell line. Our study demonstrated Bromelain and Ficin digestion effects on the commercial and wheat-extracted gliadin by SDS-PAGE, HPLC, and Circular Dichroism (CD). Also, the cytotoxicity results on Caco-2 showed that toxicity of the gliadin and synthetic 19-mer peptide was decreased by adding Bromelain and Ficin. Furthermore, the proteolytic effects of Bromelain and Ficin on gliadin indicated the expression of genes involved in cell-tight junctions was improved. This study confirms that ‌Bromelain and Ficin mixture could be effective in improving the symptoms of CeD.
The Impact of Facility Type and Volume on Treatment and Overall Survival in Craniopharyngioma
Authors: Bitner Benjamin F. , Liu Derek H. , Nottoli Madeline M. , Torabi Sina J. , Hsu Frank P.K. , Kuan Edward C.
Published: August 2023

Background
Craniopharyngiomas are uncommon benign sellar and parasellar tumors with high overall survival (OS) and recurrence rates. Treatment is often surgical but may include adjuvant therapies. The impact of adjuvant therapy and surgical approach have been evaluated, however, facility volume and type have not. The purpose of this study is to analyze the influence of facility volume and type on treatment modalities, extent of surgery and survival of craniopharyngioma.
Methods
The 2004–2016 National Cancer Database (NCDB) was queried for patients diagnosed with craniopharyngioma. Facilities were classified by type (academic vs. non-academic) and low- (LVC, treating < 8 patients over the timeline) versus high-volume (HVC, treating ≥ 8 patients over the timeline). Differences in treatment course, outcomes, and OS by facility type were assessed.
Results
3730 patients (51.3% female) with mean age 41.2 ± 22.0 were included with a 5-year estimated OS of 94.8% (94.0-95.5%). 2564 (68.7%) patients were treated at HVC, of which 2142 (83.5%) were treated at academic facilities. Patients treated at HVC’s were more likely to undergo both surgery and radiation. Surgical approach at HVC was more likely to be endoscopic. Patients treated at HVC demonstrated significantly higher 5-year OS compared to patients treated at LVC (96% [95% CI: 95.6–97.1% versus 91.2% [95% CI: 89-92.7%] with lower risk of mortality (Hazard ratio [95% CI] = 0.69 [0.56–0.84]).
Conclusion
Treatment of craniopharyngioma at HVC compared to LVC is associated with improved OS, lower 30- and 90-day postoperative mortality risk, and more common use of both radiotherapy and endoscopic surgical approach.
Chirality Descriptors for Structure-Activity Relationship Modeling of Bioactive Molecules
Authors: NATARAJAN RAMANATHAN , Lungu Claudiu , Basak Subhash
Published: August 2023

Owing to the homochirality among the α-amino acids, the building blocks, chiral environmental prevails within the structure of biological macromolecules namely, the proteins, receptors, and enzymes. This results in chiral distinction of the ligands such as drug molecules and toxicants by the biological targets. Chiral distinction of enantiomers is not only important in the biological activity of enantiomers but also in pharmacokinetics and metabolism of chemicals. The molecular descriptors that are based only on the connectivity of atoms cannot differentiate the enantiomers and diastereomers. In order to model the differential activity of enantiomers and diastereomers, molecular descriptors capable of encoding the difference in spatial arrangements of atoms and groups around a chiral center are needed. In this paper we report a modified approach that enables to compute a large pool of chirality descriptors for a given set of molecules. The new chirality descriptors can differentiate enantiomers and diastereomers. Application of the new chiral descriptors in structure-activity modelling of bioactivity of chiral molecules is illustrated for the dopamine (DA) D2 and opiate σ receptor affinities of seven pairs of enantiomers of 3-(3-hydroxyphenyl)piperidines.
Acute Post-Operative Pain Management: Practice Patterns and Treatment Challenges
Authors: Gasoma ElMuhtadi B. Y. , Mohammed Leenah M. S.
Published: August 2023

Background
Currently, surgical practice is thought to include postoperative pain management as a necessary component. Nevertheless, a lot of patients experience significant pain after surgery. The objective of this current survey was to evaluate the status of postoperative pain relief and to assess the types and routes of drugs administered for this purpose
Method
A questionnaire form was used to collect demographic data, type of surgery, anesthesia, and patient satisfaction. Assessment of pain severity was done during the interview using one of the following pain scales: verbal, numerical and visual. This was done 4 and 8 hours after surgery. Before leaving the hospital, patients who were discharged the same day as surgery underwent a single face-to-face interview.
Results
Of 258 patients, 34.3% experienced moderate to severe pain postoperatively at rest and 31.5 % on movement. No analgesics were prescribed to 7.1 % of the patients and of the remainder, a single analgesic was prescribed to 52.8%. Thyroid & minor abdominal surgery patients had the lowest pain intensity, especially in comparison to those undergoing thoracic and major abdominal surgery. Paracetamol and Diclofenac were the drugs most commonly prescribed (to 98.6 % and 41.4 % of patients respectively), most often on a regular schedule rather than on-demand.
Conclusion
Despite concerns, in some patient groups, analgesic usage may not be sufficient. However, our study indicates new factors that influence the severity of pain, such as analgesic drugs, anesthetic technique, and type of surgery. Awareness among professionals and the public is needed and a structured pain management program is crucial.
WITHDRAWN: GeneralSolutions with Hidden Variables to the Riccati Equation and Second-Order Linear ODEs
Authors: Zhao Ji-Xiang
Published: August 2023

Using suitable function transformation in combination with a specific Riccati-type equation solvable, general solution of the Riccati equation in the form of elementary quadrature is given. In the process of solving the Riccati equation, the hidden parameter and variable are discovered. This indicates that hidden parameter & variable exist in all differential equations associated with the Riccati equation, such as the second-order linear ODEs, the Schrödinger equation and the Navier–Stokes equation.
Methodology for Measuring the Scattering Matrix of a Multiport Device with a Two-Port Vector Network Analyzer
Authors:   Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics (TUSUR), Zaikov Kirill D. , Anikin Aleksei S. ,   Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics (TUSUR), Zakharov Fedor N. ,   Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics (TUSUR), Yarkov Kirill A. ,   Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics (TUSUR), Veber Vladislav I. ,   Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics (TUSUR)
Published: August 2023

When designing transceiver paths, the problem of modeling the characteristics of individual components arises. The most universal and convenient for describing the microwave device is the scattering matrix. The use of two-port and four-port vector network analyzers allows to adjust the parameters of most of the developed microwave devices (dividers, filters, amplifiers,etc.).Often, the task is to use a two-port vector network analyzer to measure the parameters of a multi-port device (ports more than 4) to solve the problem of calculating the scattering matrix of the bone connection of adjacent industrial units. The purpose of this article is to compile a methodology for measuring the scattering of multiport devices with a two-port vector network analyzer with a sequence to obtain a measurement of a multi-channel final device (multi-channel radio path). Achieving this goal allows us to provide the necessary basis for the synthesis of domestic software used to develop microwave paths from the point of view of an overview of system analysis. Keywords: S-parameter measurement technique, S-parameter measurement, scattering matrix, vector network analyzer, microwave device cascading.
A review of studies on modal reservation
Authors:   Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics (TUSUR), Hasan Adnan Alhaj , Gazizov Talgat Rashitovich ,   Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics (TUSUR)
Published: August 2023

A growing number and increasing complexity of radioelectronic devices leads to the need to protect them from interference and enhance their reliability. There are many methods to ensure this, and they differ in capability, efficiency, and ease of implementation. Among these methods, a modal reservation (MR) is one of the most effective, reliable, and uncomplicated methods currently in use. Using this method in PCB tracing and assembling ensures both electromagnetic compatibility and reliability of the final electronic device. Much research has been performed on the study and development of MR, including 18 patents for inventions. However, there is still no a complete and extensive review of this method in order to perform research based on it. Therefore, this article presents a review of history and recent research on MR to identify the possibility of making various prototypes of MR-based structures. These structures could be used for experimental studies to estimate the level of radiated emissions in the frequency range, including the situations when the temperatures are extreme. In the conclusion, the main advantages of MR are summarized for the first time. Keywords: redundancy, modal reservation, modal filtering, electromagnetic compatibility, electromagnetic interference, radiated emissions, transmission lines, printed circuit board.
Security threat model for protected microcontroller and the information it processes
Authors:   Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics (TUSUR), Konev Anton A.
Published: August 2023

The threats that allow access to data stored and processed on a secure microcontroller in order to compromise the end device are considered and divided into categories. The categories include threats that target the proper information processed on the microcontroller and threats that target the microcontroller itself and its components directly. The resulting threat model allows formalizing the construction of a list of threats for further formation of security requirements for the microcontroller during its development, and criteria for assessing its security at the testing stage.
Gravity from thermodynamics: Optimal transport and negative effective dimensions
Authors: De Luca Giuseppe Bruno , De Ponti Nicolò , Mondino Andrea , Tomasiello Alessandro
Published: August 2023

We prove an equivalence between the classical equations of motion governing vacuum gravity compactifications (and more general warped-product spacetimes) and a concavity property of entropy under time evolution. This is obtained by linking the theory of optimal transport to the Raychaudhuri equation in the internal space, where the warp factor introduces effective notions of curvature and (negative) internal dimension. When the Reduced Energy Condition is satisfied, concavity can be characterized in terms of the cosmological constant \LambdaΛ; as a consequence, the masses of the spin-two Kaluza-Klein fields obey bounds in terms of \LambdaΛ alone. We show that some Cheeger bounds on the KK spectrum hold even without assuming synthetic Ricci lower bounds, in the large class of infinitesimally Hilbertian metric measure spaces, which includes D-brane and O-plane singularities. As an application, we show how some approximate string theory solutions in the literature achieve scale separation, and we construct a new explicit parametrically scale-separated AdS solution of M-theory supported by Casimir energy.
Comparative Analysis of Gifted Centers
Authors: AĞAYA Ayşıl , TAN Sema
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Differentiation is crucial for gifted students to benefit fully from the advanced curriculum in general education. Along with the strategies used in gifted education, universities have established research and development centers to meet their unique needs. The aim of this study was to examine 17 different gifted education and research centers.
Method: As this research is a descriptive case study, the data collection method employed was document analysis. The websites of 17 gifted centers were thoroughly examined using content analysis, focusing on specific themes. The data obtained within the scope of this research were analyzed using both descriptive and content analysis methods.
Findings: It was found that the websites of the centers mainly provide details about the center's program, curriculum models, and activities. However, information regarding admission criteria is less frequently available on these websites. Additionally, the majority of personnel in gifted centers are doctoral students, with a smaller proportion of master's students. When it comes to financial support, centers primarily rely on specific funds, with minimal state support. Moreover, centers that specify student admission requirements often adopt a unique evaluation system.
Discussion: When the literature was examined, no similar study was found. Based on the findings of the study, future studies can be conducted by comparing the gifted centers in Europe with the centers in other countries and can be expanded by including the education systems of the countries in this study.
Hubungan Asupan Kalsium, Vitamin D, dan Paparan Sinar Matahari dengan Status Gizi pada Balita Usia 3-5 Tahun
Authors: Septianggreini Juli , Widyastuti Nurmasari , Ardiaria Martha , Fitranti Deny Yudi
Published: August 2023

The purpose of the study was to analyze the relationship between calcium intake, vitamin D intake, and sun exposure with the nutritional status of children aged 3-5 years. This was an observational study with a cross-sectional design. Thirty-six subjects were selected by consecutive sampling. Nutritional status was categorized based on weight-for-height z-score (WHZ). Food intake was assessed using the semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire, sun exposure data was determined by the sun exposure questionnaire, and physical activity was obtained through the Early Years Physical Activity Questionnaire. This study showed no significant relationship between calcium intake (p = 0.541), vitamin D intake (p = 0.267), and sun exposure (p = 0.568) with the nutritional status of children aged 3-5 years. Intake of protein, fat, fiber, and physical activity also showed no significant relationship with the nutritional status of children, whereas energy and carbohydrate intake showed a significant relationship with the nutritional status of children. This study showed no significant relationship between calcium intake, vitamin D intake, and sun exposure and the nutritional status of children aged 3-5 years. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisis hubungan asupan kalsium, vitamin D dan paparan sinar matahari dengan status gizi balita usia 3-5 tahun. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian observasional dengan desain cross-sectional. Tiga puluh enam subjek dipilih dengan consecutive sampling. Status gizi dikategorikan berdasarkan z-score berat badan menurut tinggi badan (BB/TB). Data asupan diperoleh melalui wawancara dengan instrumen Semi Quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire. Data paparan matahari didapatkan menggunakan kuesioner paparan sinar matahari, aktivitas fisik diperoleh melalui Early Years Physical Activity Questionnaire. Data dianalisis menggunakan uji Pearson (parametrik) dan Rank-Spearman (non-parametrik). Penelitian ini menunjukkan tidak terdapat hubungan signifikan antara asupan kalsium (p=0,541), asupan vitamin D (p=0,267), dan paparan sinar matahari (p=0,568) dengan status gizi balita usia 3-5 tahun. Asupan protein, lemak, serat, dan aktivitas fisik juga menunjukkan tidak terdapat hubungan signifikan dengan status gizi balita. Sebaliknya asupan energi dan karbohidrat menunjukkan adanya hubungan signifikan dengan status gizi balita. Penelitian ini menunjukkan tidak terdapat hubungan antara asupan kalsium, asupan vitamin D dan paparan sinar matahari dengan status gizi balita usia 3-5 tahun.
Stunting dan Perkembangan Balita Usia 36-59 Bulan di Jakarta dan Papua
Authors: Sari Desi Intan , Sari Indah Purnama
Published: August 2023

This study aims to analyze the relationship between stunting and child development of aged 36-59 months in Jakarta and Papua. This study used secondary data from the 2018 Indonesia Basic Health Survey with a cross-sectional design. The target population was mothers who have toddlers aged 0-59 months in Indonesia. The sample was mothers who have toddlers aged 36-59 months in Jakarta and Papua (335 children in Jakarta and 453 children in Papua). Samples were selected using the multistage random sampling method. This study used the Chi Square Test on bivariate analysis and the Multiple Logistic Regression Test on multivariate analysis with an alpha of 5%. The results showed that there was no significant relationship between stunting and child development in Jakarta (p=0.468). Meanwhile, the results of a study in Papua showed that there was a relationship between stunting and the development of children aged 36-59 months (PR=3.078; 95% CI=1.619-5.852) after controlling for age, sex, mother's education, environmental sanitation, and infectious disease. The recommendations in this study were increasing access to environmental sanitation and health as an effort to prevent stunting and developmental delays in children. Penelitian ini bertujuan menganalisis hubungan antara stunting dan perkembangan anak usia 36-59 bulan di Jakarta dan Papua. Penelitian ini menggunakan data sekunder Riset Kesehatan Dasar (Riskesdas) 2018 dengan desain cross-sectional. Populasi target adalah ibu yang memiliki balita usia 0-59 bulan di Indonesia. Sampel adalah ibu yang memiliki balita usia 36-59 bulan di Jakarta dan Papua dengan jumlah 335 anak di Jakarta dan 453 anak di Papua. Pemilihan sampel dengan teknik multistage random sampling. Penelitian ini menggunakan Uji Chi-Square pada analisis bivariat dan Uji Regresi Logistik Ganda pada analisis multivariat dengan alpha 5%. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan tidak ada hubungan yang signifikan antara stunting dan perkembangan anak di Jakarta (p=0,468). Sementara itu, hasil penelitian di Papua menunjukkan bahwa terdapat hubungan antara stunting dan perkembangan anak usia 36-59 bulan (PR=3,078; 95% CI=1,619-5,852). Hal itu didapatkan setelah dikontrol oleh umur, jenis kelamin, pendidikan ibu, sanitasi lingkungan, dan penyakit infeksi. Rekomendasi dalam penelitian ini yakni peningkatan akses sanitasi lingkungan dan kesehatan sebagai upaya pencegahan stunting dan keterlambatan perkembangan pada anak.
Motor rolling bearing fault diagnosis based on MVMD energy entropy and GWO-SVM
Authors: Tang Jian , Zhao Qiaoni
Published: August 2023

For motor rolling bearing fault diagnosis, vibration signal analysis is a common method to extract sensitive fault characteristics. In this paper, a newly signal processing method, multivariate variational mode decomposition (MVMD), is proposed to extract features from motor rolling bearings. The MVMD was carried out on the motor rolling bearings state signals of different categories, and the prior parameter K value which had a great influence on the decomposition effect was analyzed. Each component obtained by decomposition was measured in the form of energy entropy (EE), and the measured feature information was classified and identified by support vector machine (SVM) classifier. Meanwhile, the grey wolf optimization (GWO) was used to optimize the parameters of the classifier network to further improve the recognition accuracy. Through the simulation results, it is found that the scheme can achieve 100 % effect on the diagnosis rate of normal working condition, outer ring fault, inner ring fault and rolling element fault under the condition of different load and speed of the motor rolling bearing.