bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A future scenario earthquake and ground motion hazards for Kathmandu, Nepal
Authors: Koketsu Kazuki , Miyake Hiroe , Okumura Koji , Suzuki Haruhiko
Published: January 2024

We constructed a new distribution of the rupture zones of great historical earthquakes along the Main Himalayan Thrust (MHT) by integrating the distribution in a previous study and the results of recent trench surveys. Additionally, recent Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) observations revealed that the boundary between the Indian and Eurasian plates is strongly coupled from the southern boundary of the MHT to a depth of approximately 10 km and there is almost no lateral change in the coupling. This implies that all regions along the MHT have similar rates of strain increase. Therefore, it is most probable that the rupture zone of the oldest previous event will rupture as a future scenario earthquake. In the new distribution, the 1255 earthquake is the oldest. However, large earthquakes have already occurred in 1934 and 2015 within its rupture zone. Thus, we adopted the area obtained by removing the 1934 and 2015 rupture zones from the western part of the 1255 rupture zone. As this area is close to Kathmandu, we assumed that it would be the rupture zone of a possible scenario earthquake for seismic hazards in Kathmandu. The relationship between the rupture zone size and seismic moment of the 2015 earthquake falls between the scaling formulas for crustal earthquakes and plate boundary earthquakes, but closer to the former formula. Therefore, we constructed a characterized source model based on the former formula. We simulated broadband ground motions in Kathmandu using this source model, our 3-D velocity structure model, and a hybrid method combining the finite difference method and the stochastic Green’s function method. We obtained the peak ground accelerations (PGAs) of simulated ground motions, and calculated the seismic intensities in the modified Mercalli scale from the PGAs as indexes of hazards for Kathmandu. Intensities IX were identified in the center of the Kathmandu Valley, and we mostly found intensities VIII and VII in the area surrounded by the sedimentary boundary and the southernmost part of the valley.
Orthodontic Maxillary Molar Movement-Induced Zygomatic Pillar Remodeling and its Consequences on Occlusal Characteristics and Stress Distribution
Authors: Li Size , Bao Han , Su Xiaojie , Xiong Liping , Yin Qianwen , Gu Deao , Miao Leiying , Liu Chao
Published: January 2024

Objective: To evaluate zygomatic pillar changes during orthodontic treatment with premolar extraction, then analyze the effects of maxillary first molar movement on zygomatic pillar remodeling, and examine occlusal characteristics and stress distribution after reconstruction.
Methods: 25 premolar extraction patients were included. Zygomatic pillar measurement range was defined, and cross-sectional areas, surface landmark coordinates, and alveolar and cortical bone thickness and density changes were assessed using Mimics based on the CBCT taken before(T0)and after treatment(T1). Multiple linear regression was employed to explain correlations between zygomatic pillar changes and maxillary first molar 3D movement and rotation. Correlations between pillar remodeling and occlusal characteristics, as analyzed by Tteester, were calculated. Pre- and post-reconstruction 3D finite element models (FEA) were constructed and loaded with average occlusal force of two period , respectively.
Results: Zygomatic pillar cross-sectional area, landmark coordinates, bone thickness and alveolar bone density decreased. The mesial and lingual movement of the maxillary molars was strongly correlated with these changes, accounting for >40% variations. Occusal stress concentrated on weak areas after remodeling.
Conclusions: Orthodontic treatment with premolar extraction led to zygomatic pillar remodeling, making it more fragile and reducing the occusal force of the maxillary first molar and the entire dentition with stress concentrating on weak areas.
Clinical Relevance: No other study has focused on the effects of orthodontics on pillar structures.This research indicates that mesial movement of the maxillary first molar weakened zygomatic pillar, reduced occlusal function, and providing insights for insrting anchorage screws and facial aesthetics.
CAESAREAN DELIVERY ON MATERNAL REQUEST: the perspective of the postpartum women
Authors: Muhandule Célia J. L. Sitoe , Benetti Cristine M. S. , Fogulin Laura B. , Bento Silvana F. , Amaral Eliana , Muhandule Célia J. L. Sitoe
Published: January 2024

Background Caesarean delivery on maternal request (CDMR) is an increasing delivery option among women. As such, we aimed to understand the reasons that led pregnant women to request a caesarean delivery.Methods A phenomenological study was conducted with semi-structured interviews, in a convenience sample, for women who had undergone a CDMR between March and June 2023, in a public reference university hospital in Campinas, Brazil. The interviews were recorded, transcribed and subjected to thematic analysis, supported by Nvivo®, and Reshape®.Results We interviewed eighteen women between 21 and 43 years of age. The reasons for C-section as their choice were: 1) fear of labour pain, 2) fear for safety due to maternal or fetal risks, 3) traumatic previous birth experiences of the patient, family or friends 4) sense of control, and 5) lack of knowledge about the risks and benefits of C-section.Conclusions The perception of C-section as the painless and safest way to give birth, the movement of giving voice and respecting the autonomy of pregnant women, as well as the national regulation, contribute to the increased rates of surgical abdominal delivery under request. Cultural change concerning childbirth and better counseling could support a more adequate informed decision-making about delivery mode.
Bio-inspired Soil Improvement using Silicatein-α Enzyme
Authors: Gao Kewei , Suleiman Muhannad T. , Brown Derick G. , Sadeghnejad Abdolhamid , Lin Hai
Published: January 2024

Silicatein‑α enzyme, which is naturally found in sea sponges, was produced in the laboratory and applied in biomineralization to control the CaCO3 crystal morphology. In this study, silicatein-α enzyme was engineered and expressed in modified Escherichia coli bacteria and then extracted and purified for lab use. Syringe tests were conducted to characterize the morphology and the structure of the CaCO3 precipitates with the guide of silicatein-α enzyme in soils. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) were used to characterize the CaCO3 at the microscale. Spicule (needle-like structures) morphology of CaCO3 precipitates were observed from the syringe tests compared to the cubic morphology of the CaCO3 precipitates treated by Microbial Induced Carbonate Precipitation (MICP) and Enzyme (urease enzyme) Induced Carbonate Precipitation (EICP). The optimized silicatein‑α enzyme treatment protocol including enzyme medium (0.1 M CaCl2, 0.1 M MgCl2, and active silicatein-α enzyme (concentration from 2×10-6 to 6×10-6 M)) and cementation medium, containing 0.2 M (NH4)2CO3 at pH=11 and saturated with CO2 gas, was determined based on the conditions tested in this study. Confined compression tests were also used to investigate the mechanical property of the bio-cemented soil using the silicatein‑α enzyme. The shear modulus of soil was improved after silicatein-α treatment through shear wave velocity measurement, and the silicatein-α enzyme-treated soil (pH value of the cementation medium of 11) was less compressible than the untreated soil but more compressible than MICP and EICP-treated soils. Overall, spicule morphology of CaCO3 precipitates can be created and the mechanical property of the soil can be improved using silicatein‑α enzyme treatment.
The Effect of Compressor Stage Impeller Gap Tolerances on the Performance of a Solarised Micro Gas Turbine
Authors: Fivaz Michael , Spuy Johan Van der , Eck Hano Van
Published: January 2024

The environmental benefits of concentrating solar power (CSP) combined with the high continuous output power of a micro gas turbine (MGT) offer a unique method for producing electricity as a solar-hybrid system. The two primary methods to improve the performance and efficiency of an MGT are to raise the temperature of the combustor inlet and to increase the pressure ratio of the compressor stage. The effect of improving the performance of a MGT by reducing the geometric tolerances of the compressor stage is applied to an MGT testbench intended for use in a solar-hybrid application. The MGT features a centrifugal compressor which is favoured over axial compressors because of its higher per stage pressure ratios being achieved. The existing compressor is initially simulated using a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis to generate pressure ratio and efficiency performance charts. A second CFD simulation is performed on the compressor, whose geometric tolerances are reduced to a realistically achievable manufacturing tolerance with standard machinery of 0.3 mm. With this modification, the compressor's pressure ratio increases from 1.482 to 1.524 and its efficiency improves from 78.3–81.4%. The simulated output power on the MGT testbench increases from this modification by 18.2%, from 18.1 kW to 21.4 kW. This study not only illustrates an improvement in the performance of the MGT testbench, but it also enables further development in subsequent stages and, ultimately, promotes the use of solar-hybrid electricity generation.
Observed multi-decadal increase in the surface ocean's thermal inertia
Authors: Song Hajoon , Lee Chaehyeong , Choi Yeonju , Cho Ajin , Marshall John
Published: January 2024

The ocean surface layer plays a pivotal role in Earth's climate by absorbing excess heat from the atmosphere, thereby regulating global temperatures. Here we document an observed and very notable increase in the persistence of sea surface temperature around the global ocean over the past four decades. This prolonged memory is attributed to two key factors: a deepening of the surface mixed layer and a decrease in the damping rates due to processes such as vertical entrainment, mixing and damping to the atmosphere. Our findings have great relevance to the observed increase in the duration of marine heatwaves and associated heightened thermal threats to marine organisms. Our study also suggests that the ocean's ability to sequester heat is weakening, a trend that may accelerate as the 21st century proceeds.
Effect of the Postoperative Pain Management Model on the Psychological Status and Quality of Life of Patients in the Advanced Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Wang Lijuan , Zhang Qiang
Published: January 2024

Objective: it was to explore the influence of the postoperative pain management mode on the psychological state, quality of life (QOL), and nursing satisfaction of late patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) and improve the nursing effect of late patients in the ICU.
Methods: seventy patients who were admitted to the postoperative ICU for gastric cancer and received treatment in our hospital from March 2021 to May 2022 were selected. The patients were assigned into a research group and a control (Ctrl) group according to a random number table, with 70 cases in each group. The Ctrl group received routine nursing intervention, while research group received nursing intervention based on routine nursing intervention with postoperative pain management mode and received psychological care. Good communication was established with the patients, and the postoperative pain assessment was well conducted. The general information, state-trait anxiety (STAI) score, World Health Organization’s Quality of Life Instrument (WHO QOL-BREF) score, and care satisfaction were compared.
Results: the general information differed slightly, such as sex, age, and ward type, between groups, with comparability (P > 0.05). S-AI scores (13.15 ± 1.53 vs. 16.23 ± 1.24) and T-AI scores (14.73 ± 3.12 vs. 18.73 ± 3.16) in research group were inferior to those in Ctrl group (P < 0.05). The scores of patients in research group in the physiological field (78.9 ± 6.1 points vs. 72.3 ± 5.6 points), social relationship field (76.9 ± 4.5 points vs. 71.3 ± 4.8 points), psychological field (78.6 ± 6.2 points vs. 72.4 ± 5.3 points), environmental field (78.6 ± 6.7 points vs. 73.5 ± 6.4 points), and total QOL (79.5 ± 7.4 points vs. 71.6 ± 5.4 points) were higher than those in Ctrl group (P< 0.05). The total satisfaction rate with nursing care in research group (82.85%) was dramatically superior to that in Ctrl group (62.85%) (P< 0.05).
Conclusion: the adoption of a postoperative pain management model in postoperative nursing interventions for patients in advanced ICUs can alleviate anxiety and depression, improve patients’ QOL and nursing satisfaction, and have clinical promotion value.
Utility of quantitative analysis of 99mTc-GSA SPECT/CT in the evaluation of liver fibrosis: comparison with conventional assessment on planar images and its complementary diagnostic value with other liver function indices
Authors: Kozaki Yoichi , Ichikawa Yasutaka , Nakamura Satoshi , Kobayashi Tatsuhiro , Tomita Yoya , Nagata Motonori , Kuriyama Naohisa , Mizuno Shugo , Sakuma Hajime
Published: January 2024

Objective
To evaluate the potential value of quantitative Tc-99m-diethylenetriamine-penta-acetic acid-galactosyl human serum albumin (99mTc-GSA) SPECT in the assessment of liver fibrosis compared to a conventional index based on planar images (LHL15), and to assess its complementary value to other liver function indices such as fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index and indocyanine green (ICG) clearance test (ICG-R15, ICG-K).
Methods
Seventy-eight consecutive patients with suspected chronic liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma who underwent 99mTc-GSA scintigraphy and other liver function tests including ICG test and FIB-4 index as the workup prior to hepatectomy were studied. 99mTc-GSA image data were acquired with a SPECT/CT scanner (Discovery NM/CT 670) equipped with low-energy high-resolution collimator. Immediately after intravenous injection of median dose of 185 MBq of 99mTc-GSA, dynamic imaging was performed for 20 min, followed by SPECT data acquisition for 6 min. LHL15, a conventional index, was measured from the planar images, and the liver uptake ration (LUR) was measured from the 99mTc-GSA SPECT images. From the liver resection specimens, the degree of liver fibrosis was graded according to the Ludwig scale (F0-4).
Results
Significant differences in LUR, LHL15, ICG-R15, ICG-K, platelet count and FIB-4 index were found between the F0-3 and F4 liver fibrosis patient groups (P < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that LUR and ICG-K were independent factors for identifying severe liver fibrosis (F4). Area under the curve of receiver operating curve analysis for the logistic regression model using LUR and ICG-K was 0.83. In the patient group with higher FIB-4 (≥ 3.16), the diagnostic performance of LUR for detecting severe liver fibrosis was significantly better than LHL15 (AUC: 0.83 vs. 0.75, P = 0.048). In the high FIB-4 index group, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for the identification of severe liver fibrosis were 88%, 85%, 88%, and 85%, respectively, when using the cutoff value of 41.2% for LUR.
Conclusions
LUR measured by quantitative analysis of 99mTc-GSA SPECT reflects the severity of liver fibrosis more accurately than the conventional index from planar imaging. In patients with high FIB-4 index, LUR is a useful indicator to identify severe liver fibrosis with high diagnostic accuracy.
Recovering the original simplicity: succinct and deterministic quantum algorithm for the welded tree problem
Authors: Li Guanzhong , Li Lvzhou , Luo Jingquan
Published: January 2024

This work revisits quantum algorithms for the well-known welded tree problem, proposing a very succinct quantum algorithm based on the simplest coined quantum walks. It simply iterates the naturally defined coined quantum walk operator for a predetermined time and finally measure, where the predetermined time can be efficiently computed on classical computers. Then, the algorithm returns the correct answer deterministically, and achieves exponential speedups over any classical algorithm. The significance of the results may be seen as follows. (i) Our algorithm is rather simple compared with the one in (Jeffery and Zur, STOC'2023), which not only breaks the stereotype that coined quantum walks can only achieve quadratic speedups over classical algorithms, but also demonstrates the power of the simplest quantum walk model. (ii) Our algorithm theoretically achieves certainty of success, which is not possible with existing methods. Thus, it becomes one of the few examples that exhibit exponential separation between deterministic (exact) quantum and randomized query complexities, which may also change people's perception that since quantum mechanics is inherently probabilistic, it is impossible to have a deterministic quantum algorithm with exponential speedups for the welded tree problem.
Proxy-based Guidance Virtual Fixtures with Orientation Constraints
Authors: Hu Weitao , Pan Xinan , Wang Hongguang
Published: January 2024

In applications of physical human-robot interaction, robots pose a potential risk to human safety. A virtual fixture is used to ensure the safety of human operators by restricting the robot's behavior, which assists operators in moving the robot along a desired path. In this paper, we propose a novel and practical guidance virtual fixture based on a virtual proxy. By designing the dynamics of the proxy and connecting it to the robot using a viscoelastic linkage model, the robot's end-effector position can be constrained within pipeline and conical geometries. In addition, the end-effector orientation of the robot can also be constrained within a specific range to comply with ergonomics. The conducted experiment validated the effectiveness and convenience of the proposed control scheme in path tracking tasks by evaluating it involving several subjects and a Franka Emika Panda robot.
Ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection and malfunction in adult patients: Incidence, risk factors, and long-term follow-up of single institution experience
Authors: Kim Minwoo , Choi June Ho , Park Jung Cheol , Ahn Jae Sung , Kwun Byung Duk , Park Wonhyoung
Published: January 2024

Ventriculoperitoneal shunt surgery was developed to manage excessive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain’s ventricles and is considered a mainstream treatment. Despite the development of the shunt device system, various complications still occur. In this study, we reported 307 cases and a long-term follow-up of at least five years of adult patients who underwent VP shunt surgery and analyzed various factors that may affect revision surgery. A retrospective study was conducted at Asan Medical Center, Korea, a tertiary medical center. We reviewed 307 cases from January 2012 to December 2018. The patients’ neurological status, predisposing medical conditions, laboratory findings, and other operation-related factors were reviewed using electrical medical records. The normal function group comprised 272 cases (88.6%), and the overall incidence of revision group comprised 35 cases (11.4%). Of the 35 revision surgery cases, 30 (85.71%) were due to shunt malfunctions, such as obstruction, overdrainage, and valve-related errors while 5 (14.29%) were due to shunt infection. Patient demographics, mental status, and operation time did not influence revision as risk factors. Serum laboratory findings showed no statistical difference between the two groups. The white blood cell (WBC) count in the CSF profile differed significantly between the two groups. Various shunt systems, such as Hakim programmable valve (Codman, USA) used predominantly for its low revision rate, (Strata Adjustable valve (Medtronic, USA), proGAV (Aesculap, USA), and Accu-Flo (Codman, USA)) were used in our center.
Display of Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus Spike protein B-Cell Linear Epitope on Lactobacillus mucosae G01 S-layer Surface Induce a Robust Immunogenicity in Mice
Authors: Zhang Bin , Gou Hongchao , Shen Haiyan , Zhang Chunhong , Liu Zhicheng , Wuri Nile , Nie Jingjing , Qu Yunzhi , Zhang Jianfeng , Geri Letu
Published: January 2024

The Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) presents a substantial risk to the domestic pig industry, resulting in extensive and fatal viral diarrhea among piglets. Recognizing the mucosal stimulation triggered by PEDV and harnessing the regulatory impact of lactobacilli on intestinal function, we have developed a lactobacillus based vaccine that is carefully designed to elicit a strong mucosal immune response. Through bioinformatics analysis, we examined PEDV S proteins to identify B-cell linear epitopes that meet the criteria of being non-toxic, soluble, antigenic, and capable of neutralizing the virus. In this study, a genetically modified strain of Lactobacillus mucosae G01 (L.mucosae G01) was created by utilizing the S layer protein (SLP) as a scaffold for surface presentation. Chimeric immunodominant epitopes with neutralizing activity were incorporated at various sites on SLP. The successful expression of SLP chimeric immunodominant epitope 1 on the surface of L.mucosae G01 was confirmed through indirect immunofluorescence and transmission electron microscopy, revealing the formation of a transparent membrane. The findings demonstrate that the oral administration of L.mucosae G01, which expresses the SLP chimeric immunodominant gene epitope1, induces the production of secreted IgA in the intestine and feces of mice. Additionally, there is an elevation in IgG levels in the serum. Moreover, the levels of cytokines IL-2, IL-4, IFN-γ, and IL-17 are significantly increased compared to the negative control group. These results suggest that L.mucosae G01 has the ability to deliver exogenous antigens and elicit a specific mucosal immune response against PEDV. This investigation presents new possibilities for immunoprophylaxis against PEDV-induced diarrhea.
Effect of thermal stress on the life of DC link capacitors for smart grid
Authors: Sun Xiao-Wu , Qiao Ying , Li Yin-Da , Cao Chong-Feng , Guo Xiang-Ming
Published: January 2024

Thermal stress is an important factor affecting the life of a DC link capacitor (DCLC). However, relevant studies on thermal stress mechanism directly influencing the lifetime of the capacitor are rarely reported. In this paper, the thermal polymerization of DCLC has been analyzed, and the relevant experimental platforms have been developed to evaluate the breakdown strength of DCLC at two thermal polymerization temperatures (TPTs). Simultaneously, the aging analysis of DCLC at different TPTs and the accelerated lifetime measurements at various temperatures were also executed to attain insights into the influence of thermal stress on the lifetime of DCLC. The results showed that the stress caused by thermal polymerization and working temperature influenced the breakdown voltage capability and the lifetime of DCLC. With an increase in TPT by 5 °C, a step-increase in the withstand voltage capability of DCLC from 7,000 V to 7,200 V was observed that demonstrated an enhancement of 2.86%in the breakdown strength performance. Correspondingly, the lifetime of DCLC with a capacitance change rate of -3% enhanced from 1,500 hours to 1,700 hours. However, severe deterioration in the life span of DCLC from 4,200 hours to 500 hours was observed with an increasing operating temperature from 55 °C to 85 °C, respectively. The lifetime could be enhanced by increasing the thermal polymerization temperature as well as reducing the working temperature. The presented results could be termed a harbinger for industrial production of high-performance DCLC with enhanced lifetime that augers well for high-power applications.
Comparative Evaluation of Language Models in Summarizing Chinese Healthcare Exam Findings
Authors: Xu Min , Zheng Lucheng
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives: Summarizing Chinese healthcare exam findings (SCHEF) is a critical and challenging task that requires extensive medical knowledge. Despite its importance, research on automating the generation of such summaries remains limited.We aim to develop a standardized Chinese Healthcare Exam Summarization (CHES) dataset and evaluate the performance of various sequence-to-sequence(seq2seq) models on the task of summarizing overall conclusions of healthcare exam findings. Our primary focus is on assessing the models’applicability, generalization, and transferability in this context.
Materials and Methods: We collect healthcare exam data from over 110, 000 individuals across two centers, creating the anonymized and cleaned Chinese Healthcare Exam Summarization (CHES) dataset for training and evaluating summarization models. We conduct comprehensive experiments on a broad range of summarization methods, including the manual extraction baseline method, a variety of RNN models (RNN, GRU, LSTM), PointerNet with a copy mechanism, convolutional seq2seq techniques, and self-attention-driven architectures such as Transformer, RoBERTa, and MacBERT. Additionally, we explore the significance of domain adaptation for BERT-based models on specific task datasets.
Results: Our experiments show that BERT-based models demonstrate the best performance in generating summaries for Chinese healthcare exam findings, as evidenced by F1 and recall evaluation metrics. Through this domain adaptation on task-specific datasets, we notice a substantial improvement of approximately 3% in the generated text summarization.
Conclusion: Our study demonstrates that advanced seq2seq language models can be readily employed for generating Chinese healthcare exam findings summarizations without requiring substantial modifications. Further pretraining language models on target datasets considerably improves summary quality by enhancing adherence to medical semantic standards, as it enables the model to better capture contextual and semantic information.
Importance of Residency Applicant Factors Based on Specialty and Demographics: A National Survey of Program Directors
Authors: Strausser Sarah A. , Dopke Kelly M. , Groff Destin , Boehmer Sue , Olympia Robert P.
Published: January 2024

Background: With the transition away from traditional numerical grades/scores, residency applicant factors such as service, research, leadership, and extra-curricular activities may become more critical in the application process.
Objective: To assess the importance of residency application factors reported by program directors (PDs), stratified by director demographics and specialty.
Method: A questionnaire was electronically distributed to 4241 residency PDs in 23 specialties during spring 2022 and included questions on PD demographics and 22 residency applicant factors, including demographics, academic history, research involvement, and extracurricular activities. Responses were measured using a Likert scale for importance. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square and Fisher exact test analysis were performed.
Results: 767 questionnaires were completed (19% response rate). Across all specialties, the factor considered most important was the interview (99.5%). When stratified by specialty, surgical PDs were more likely to characterize class rank, letters of recommendation, research, presenting scholarly work, and involvement in collegiate sports as extremely important/very important (all p< 0.0001). In contrast, primary care PDs favored the proximity of the candidate’s hometown (p= 0.0002) and community service (p= 0.03). Mean importance of applicant factors also differed by PD age, gender, and ethnicity.
Conclusion: We have identified several residency application factors considered important by PDs, stratified by their specialty, demographics, and previous experiences. With the transition away from numerical grades/scores, medical students should be aware of the factors PDs consider important based on their chosen specialty. Our analysis may assist medical students in understanding the application and match process across various specialties.
Adverse reactions associated with the off-label use of octreotide for pancreatitis ： A pharmacovigilance study based on FDA adverse event reporting system
Authors: Tian Maolan , Ding Haoran , Li Guanlin , Feng Shuo , Lu Dongxu , Shi Chao , Sun Haijun , Meng Xianzhi
Published: January 2024

Purpose:
Octreotide is often off label used for the treatment of pancreatitis because of its effect of inhibiting pancreatic secretion of trypsin. However, the adverse effects (AEs) associated with octreotide for pancreatitis treatment have not been adequately studied.
Methods:
Adverse events data of Octreotide from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database during the first quarter of 2004 to the third quarter of 2023 was collected. Disproportionality analysis was performed using the reporting odds ratio (ROR) and the proportional reporting ratio (PRR) method. The time-to‐onset analysis was conducted using the Weibull shape parameter (WSP) test. Cumulative incidences were plotted using the Kaplan‐Meier method, and log‐rank test was used to compare the cumulative incidences.
Results:
A total of 23,047 records from the FAERS database were included in this study, including 92 records for patients with pancreatitis and 22,955 records for other indications. A total of 42 AEs signals were detected in pancreatitis patients, distributed among 15 SOCs. 27 of these signals were detected as positive signals only in patients with pancreatitis, but not in other indications. The cumulative incidence of adverse reactions did not differ between the pancreatitis and other indication populations (log-rank test, P = 0.665). In the WSP test for octreotide associated AEs, the upper limit of 95% CI of the shape parameter were less than 1 for both populations, suggesting an early failure type profile.
Conclusion:
The adverse reaction profile of octreotide off label used for the treatment of pancreatitis is significantly different from that of other diseases.
Ten-Year Trends of Inflammatory Bowel disease and Total Parental Nutrition Use: Nationwide study from 2010-2020
Authors: Choday Silpa , Jarvis Anne , Kim Peter , Chuang Keng-Yu , Vyas Neil
Published: January 2024

Background
This study examined total parenteral nutrition (TPN) usage trends over the last 10 years, including their nationwide patterns, and the outcomes of the utilization of TPN in patients admitted with inflammatory bowel disease.
Methods
Using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) database from 2010 until 2015, we conducted a retrospective cohort study to identify Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) hospitalization and discharges, determine rates of parenteral nutrition utilization, and investigate outcomes, including in-hospital mortality and hospital resource utilization.
Results
The hospitalizations for IBD combining both Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) initially noted a rising trend in IBD until 2016 followed by a decreasing trend with statistical significance (P < 0.001). A decreasing trend in Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) utilization in CD dropped from 6.2–5.4% (P = 0.07). The prevalence of malnutrition in CD cases significantly increased from 11.6–16.6% (P < 0.001), and the use of TPN in malnutrition cases decreased from 25.0–20.0% with statistical significance (P = 0.002). TPN in UC cases also exhibited a downward trend, declining from 5.3–3.1% with statistical significance (P < 0.001). However, there was a noteworthy increase in malnutrition rates, rising from 13.5–17.3% (P = 0.087). Similarly, the utilization of TPN in malnutrition cases among UC cases displayed a significant decrease from 19.9–11.3% (P < 0.001). The combined use of TPN in IBD showed a decreased trend from 5.9–4.3% with statistical significance (P < 0.001).. Comorbidities like Alcohol use, Diabetes, Hypertension, and Obesity have also seen an increasing trend.
Conclusions
The management of IBD evolved significantly between 2010 and 2020. There is a decline in the trend in TPN usage in both CD and UC suggests a shift in the management of IBD and judicious use of TPN. Clinicians started to adopt more targeted treatment approaches, such as biologics and immunomodulators. These findings underscore the need for ongoing research and collaboration among healthcare professionals to optimize treatment strategies and improve patient outcomes in the ever-changing settings of IBD care.
Knowledge, attitude, and practice of personal hygiene among primary school students in southern Jordan: A cross-sectional school-based study
Authors: Khamaiseh Abdullah , Leimoon Hammam
Published: January 2024

Background: Personal hygiene has long been recognized as a key global public health concern that contributes to promoting health and preventing the transmission of diseases. This study aimd to evaluate Southern Jordanian primary school students' knowledge, attitudes, and practices about personal hygiene.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional school-based study with 348 primary school students aged 10 to 15 is conducted to achieve the study objectives. A self-administered questionnaire with four sections: sociodemographic data, personal hygiene knowledge, personal hygiene attitude, and personal hygiene practice is also adopted.
Results: The results indicated that the students had excellent (>90%) knowledge of personal hygiene. The students' attitudes toward the value of personal hygiene, using soap for handwashing, toothpaste for brushing teeth, and a towel as personal hygiene equipment were also excellent . Some students, however, lack other aspects of attitudes and practices dimensions.
Conclusions: There is a statistically significant association between gender and knowledge, attitude, and practices toward personal hygiene.Female students have more knowledge and practice than male students, while male students have a better attitude than females. With this, the research highly recommends implementing school-based health education programs about personal hygiene.
Immunophenotypic changes in NRBCs of Philadelphia chromosome-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms and its clinical significance
Authors: Liang Fengting , Liang Xuelan , Ren Huanying , Wei Wei , Hong Minglin , Hao Zhuanghui , Wang Hongwei , Chen Xiuhua.
Published: January 2024

Purpose: Philadelphia chromosome-negative myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are challenging to differentiate in the early stages. Chronic inflammation and alterations in stromal and immune cells contribute to the MPN pathophysiology. This study evaluated the clinical significance of immunophenotypic alterations in the bone marrow erythrocytes in patients with MPN.
Methods: Flow cytometry was used to assess the CD36, CD71, and CD235a expression in bone marrow-nucleated erythrocytes (NRBCs) in patients with polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocythemia (ET), and primary myelofibrosis (PMF). Changes in bone marrow-nucleated erythrocyte immunophenotypes in patients with MPN were also analyzed using multiple prognostic scoring systems and clinical parameters.
Results: The bone marrow-nucleated erythrocyte expression of CD71 significantly decreased in patients with PMF, and it was positively correlated with the PMF grade. Patients with PV or PMF had a lower NRBC expression of CD36 than those with ET. CD36+NRBC (%) could be a marker for differentiating ET from PMF or PV. The expression of these surface markers was not significantly correlated with gene mutations in patients with MPN. CD71+CD235a-NRBC (%) was positively correlated with prognostic risk factors such as circulating matrices > 1% and white blood cell count > 25 × 109/L in patients with PMF. Moreover, CD235a+NRBC (%) and CD71+CD235a-NRBC (%) were negatively and positively correlated with the clinical and molecular prognostic model score, respectively, in patients with PMF.
Conclusion: Patients with PMF who have a higher myelofibrosis grade have a more severely impaired NRBCs. The decreased CD235a expression in the red lineage may be associated with poor prognosis in PMF.
PID Control Approach for Optimizing Voltage Regulation in Smart Grids Using Energy Storage Reactive Power
Authors: Anna Jarosz
Published: January 2024

This article proposes a PID controller-based approach to optimize voltage regulation in smart grids by leveraging the reactive power capabilities of energy storage systems. The research focuses on designing a robust control framework that utilizes the PID control technique to maintain grid voltage within desired limits. The article presents the implementation details, performance evaluation, and analysis of the proposed solution, demonstrating its effectiveness in voltage regulation and its potential for improving grid stability and reliability. The findings contribute to the development of advanced control strategies for smart grids, enabling more efficient energy management and enhanced system performance.
Effect of Draw Ratio and Triggering Temperature on Properties of Hydrothermal Responsive Shape Memory Microcomposite Filaments.
Authors: Semanie Direselgn Molla , Zhang Lei , Yesuf Hanur Meku , Adamu Biruk Fentahun , Zhou Buguang , Jiansheng Prof. Guo
Published: January 2024

This paper investigates the production of hydrothermal responsive shape memory filaments with different draw ratios (0.8, 2.0, and 3.2), using microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) as a filler and shape memory polyurethane (SMPU) as a matrix. A mechanical-thermo-aqueous programming test (MTAP) was conducted to study the shape-memory properties of the microcomposite filaments. The effect of draw ratio and triggering temperature on mechanical, physical, thermal, morphological, and shape memory performances was thoroughly studied. Among the microcomposite filaments, SMPU-MCC with a draw ratio of 2.0 exhibited the highest tenacity value of 0.91 cN/dtex in its original shape, with an elongation percentage of 385.2%. The differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) results showed that the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the filaments increased as the draw ratio increased from 0.8 to 3.2, ranging from 38.35°C to 41.02°C. The crystallinity percentages obtained for pure SMPU, SMPU-MCC-0.8, SMPU-MCC-2.0, and SMPU-MCC-3.2 were 27.10%, 30.68%, 38.72%, and 36.88%, respectively. In addition, an optimum draw ratio led to a degradation temperature rise from 372.5ºC to 391.3ºC, which shows the thermal stability of the filaments was significantly influenced by the intermolecular bonding between MCC and SMPU, which intensified as the draw ratio increased from 0.8 to 2.0. Moreover, the filaments exhibited excellent mechanical and thermal properties in six cycles at the optimum draw ratio and triggering temperature, indicating their future application for repeated use without experiencing major changes in shape memory properties.
SWOT Analysis and Insights into the Health Research Authority Approval Process for COVID-19 Antimicrobial Stewardship Research in UK Secondary Care: Advocating Think Ethics
Authors: Elshenawy Rasha Abdelsalam , Aslanpour Zoe
Published: January 2024

This article examines the Health Research Authority's (HRA) approval process, guided by the 'Think Ethics' principal, for an antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) research project at an English NHS Foundation Trust during the COVID-19 pandemic. Employing a SWOT analysis to reflect critically on the process, the project encompassed a retrospective examination of patient records and a survey of healthcare workers, navigating the application of the Integrated Research Application System (IRAS). The HRA's streamlined procedures, involving intensive reviews by the NHS Research Ethics Committee (REC) and regulatory checks, refined the approval process, precluding the need for multiple assessments across NHS bodies. Achieving HRA consent necessitated adherence to confidentiality protocols and the submission of extensive documentation. Only upon securing all requisite regulatory approvals could the project proceed, highlighting the essentiality of proficient project management and strategic communication. The study's outcomes shed light on AMS practices, the shifts in antibiotic prescribing patterns, and the pandemic's influence on these dynamics. Crucially, the investigation emphasised the vital importance of robust AMS in managing antibiotic utilisation and in combating antimicrobial resistance. Reflecting on this journey emphasises the importance of involving the public and patients, creating effective participant information sheets (PIS), registering research projects in databases, such as ISRCTN and OCTOPUS, and constructively addressing feedback. These lessons has significantly enhanced the authors' research skills, emphasising the crucial importance of ethical consideration and transparent communication in academic research. This article offers a thorough reflection of the Health Research Authority approval process, advocating its adoption in future antimicrobial stewardship and antimicrobial resistance investigations, which are imperative to global health. Moreover, undertaking a SWOT analysis has yielded strategic insights, facilitating a more informed approach to the process of the HRA approval process, especially in relation to COVID-19 antimicrobial stewardship research within UK secondary care.
Brief, Real-Time Reflections: An Efficient, Contextual, and Familiar Variation of Narrative Medicine: A Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis
Authors: Hilgeman Brian , Kurtz Kevin , Hoeschen Mary , Hovis Zachary , Harrison Rachele , Minshew Lana
Published: January 2024

Background
Narrative medicine is a widely used pedagogic tool but can be detached from the clinic context and unfamiliar to students. Brief real-time reflections could be a method of narrative medicine that is contextual, familiar, and convenient.
Methods
Fourth year medical students completed 280-character reflections immediately after patient interactions while rotating in a primary care clinic serving complex patients. Three researchers used qualitative methods to develop a codebook to describe the reflections and an independent auditor verified codebook application. Student feedback regarding their experience writing reflections was elicited on a Likert scale to understand student perspectives on the tool about ease of use, empathy, and remembering patient interactions.
Results
Eighteen students completed 131 reflections during 64 clinics; an average of 2.04 reflections per clinic and spent an average of 4.39 minutes on each reflection. Three codes were elicited to describe the content of reflections: descriptive, emotional, and cognitive. The most frequently identified code was cognitive (n = 84, 41%), with descriptive (n = 69, 33%) and emotional (n = 53, 26%) being less frequent. Reflections could contain one or a combination of codes. The most common reflection was cognitive-only (n = 43, 33%) followed by a combination of descriptive and emotional (n = 24; 18%). Most students agreed or strongly agreed that reflections helped them think more deeply about (9/9, 100%) and remember (8/9, 89%) patient interactions and were a good use of their time (7/9, 78%).
Conclusions
Brief, real-time reflections are a tool that allow medical students to reflect upon their clinical experiences in a complex and cognitive way and was well-received by students.
Service Quality and Customer Loyalty on Customer Satisfaction at a Hotel
Authors:   Hotel Operation, Sekolah Tinggi Pariwisata Bogor, Jl. Curug Mekar, Jl. Yasmin Raya No.17, Curugmekar, Bogor Barat, Kota Bogor, Jawa Barat 16113, Indonesia, Sjukriana Juke , Falaq Muhammad ,   Hotel Operation, Sekolah Tinggi Pariwisata Bogor, Jl. Curug Mekar, Jl. Yasmin Raya No.17, Curugmekar, Bogor Barat, Kota Bogor, Jawa Barat 16113, Indonesia
Published: January 2024

Company Hotel Salak Express is currently experiencing very rapid development in line with the needs of society in various fields of life. To be able to meet people's needs, good service is needed in order to create loyalty for customers which will affect the company itself. At this study, the researcher aims to determine the effect of service quality and customer loyalty on customer satisfaction. The population in this study were 70 consumers of hotel service users. The data collection method was done through a questionnaire. The research method is quantitative. The data used in this study are primary data. Data collection was carried out using a questionnaire. Analysis using Multiple Regression with testing using SPSS.
Exploring the Efficient Natural Products for the Therapy of Parkinson’s Disease via Drosophila Melanogaster (Fruit Fly) Models
Authors: Zhang Wen , Ju Yingjie , Ren Yunuo , Miao Yaodong , Wang Yiwen
Published: January 2024

abstract:

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a severe neurodegenerative disorder, partly attributed to mutations, environmental toxins, oxidative stress, abnormal protein aggregation, and mitochon-drial dysfunction. However, the precise pathogenesis of PD and its treatment strategy still require investigation. Fortunately, natural products have demonstrated potential as therapeutic agents for alleviating PD symptoms due to their neuroprotective properties. To identify promising lead compounds from herbal medicines' natural products for PD management and understand their modes of action, suitable animal models are necessary. Drosophila melanogaster (fruit fly) serves as an essential model for studying genetic and cellular pathways in complex biological processes. Diverse Drosophila PD models have been extensively utilized in PD research, particularly for discovering neuroprotective natural products. This review emphasizes the research progress of natural products in PD using the fruit fly PD model, offering valuable insights into utilizing inver-tebrate models for developing novel anti-PD drugs.
The Levels of Phoenixin-14 and Phoenixin-20 in Patients with Type 2
Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Can Ummugulsum , Akdu Sadinaz , Şahinoğlu Serdar
Published: January 2024

Background:

New pathogenesis-related early detection markers are needed to prevent
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM).

Objective:

We aimed to determine phoenixin (PNX)-14 and PNX-20 levels in T2DM patients
and investigate their relationship with diabetes.

Methods:

36 T2DM patients and 36 healthy controls were included in the study, and PNX-14
and PNX-20 levels in blood samples taken from the groups were measured by ELISA method.

Results:

Patients' serum PNX-14 and PNX-20 levels were statistically significantly lower than
in controls (p <0.001). A negative correlation was detected between PNX-14 and BMI, fasting
blood sugar, HbA1c%, and HOMA-IR. A negative correlation was found between PNX-20 and
BMI, fasting insulin and glucose, HbA1c%, and HO-MA-IR. A positive correlation was noticed
between PNX-14 and PNX-20 levels. In ROC analyses, PNX-14 and PNX-20 performed almost
equally in predicting T2DM. In predicting T2DM, the area under the ROC curve for PNX-14
was 0.874 (cutoff value 413.4 ng/L, sensitivity 89 %, specificity 72%), and for PNX-20 was
0.858 (cutoff value 228.7 ng/L, sensitivity 80 %, specificity 83 %).

Conclusion:

This study shows that serum PNX measurement may have a high level of evidence
in predicting T2DM. PNX, related to pathogenesis, may be useful in diagnosing T2DM and other
information to support clinical decision-making.