bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role and Impact of Controlling Obstacles with Barriers of Solar Air Collectors for Sustainable Energy Usage with Smart Grids
Authors: Bashiri Abdollah , Maysami M.A , Jalali Arman , UNSAL Derya Betul , Aksöz Ahmet , Muyeen S.M.
Published: December 2023

The use of solar energy holds significant importance within the context of smart grid infrastructure, which is specifically designed to promote environmental preservation and long-term sustainability. Solar collectors are integral components of solar energy systems. Consistent maintenance of solar collectors will enhance energy efficiency and mitigate the use of energy resources. The aforementioned studies hold significance in the context of transitioning to a smart grid, particularly for developing nations. They provide light on how the existing energy production framework may facilitate the transformation of the conventional grid into a smart grid. This study focused specifically on the investigation of solar energy systems utilised as thermal energy sources. The energy efficiency of solar air collectors is diminished because of their low specific heat capacity and least expensive facilities to supply warm air for various applications. In addition, this study emphasizes investigating the enhancement of collector efficiency using double-layer glass coated collectors including arch-shaped obstacles. Three collectors were constructed with distinct features. The first collector, denoted as SC120, was designed without any obstacles and featured a double-layer cover as the witness. The second collector, referred to as SC121, incorporated obstacles with a width of 4 cm along with a double-layer cover. Lastly, the third collector, designated as SC122, included obstacles with a width of 7 cm arranged in a different configuration, also accompanied by a double-layer cover. A blower was installed in each collection to facilitate the forced air flow directed towards the absorbent material, ensuring that the volumetric flow rate remained consistent throughout all collectors. The trials were conducted over a span of five consecutive days, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., in an outdoor setting throughout the summer season. The findings indicated that the thermal efficiency of SC122 exhibited a 17% increase compared to SC121, and a 35.7% improvement relative to SC120. The presence of obstacles has a notable impact on thermal efficiency, with rough barriers leading to increased efficiency due to their ability to enhance the rate of heat absorption from the absorbent plate by the blown air.
An Open-Source Face-Aware Capture System
Authors: Sarker Md Abdul Baset , Hossain SM Safayet , Venkataswamy Naveenkumar G , Schuckers Stephanie , Imtiaz Masudul H
Published: December 2023

This work introduces a novel facial image capture system that utilizes computer vision technology and artificial intelligence for real-time detecting, tracking, and capturing of human faces. The objective of this study is to address the challenges posed by poor-quality facial images in biometric authentication, especially in passport photo acquisition and recognition. By combining face-aware capture technology with AES encryption for secure image storage, we present a completely open-source hardware solution that consists of a Jetson processor, a 16MP autofocus RGB camera, a custom enclosure, and a touch sensor LCD for user interaction. Pilot data collection demonstrates the system's ability to capture high-quality images, achieving a 98.98% accuracy in storing images of acceptable quality. The integration of AES encryption ensures data security, making the proposed system suitable for real-time applications in other domains beyond identity verification in passport applications, such as security systems, video conferencing, etc
Cardiac Manifestations after Ingestion of a Commercial Desiccant: A Case Report
Authors: Shin Su Jeong , Kim Yun Jeong
Published: December 2023

Background and Objectives: The ingestion of anhydrous calcium chloride (CaCl2) causes direct injury to the gastrointestinal wall via a thermal burn. Severe CaCl2 intoxication can induce a hypercalcemic crisis, presenting with arrhythmia, acute pancreatitis, and acute kidney injury. This case report details a patient with hematemesis and hypercalcemia following the ingestion of a commercial desiccant. We aimed to report the progression of the case and focused on the elec-trocardiographic manifestations. Case presentation: A 39-year-old female presented at a regional emergency center with blood in her vomit after the ingestion of a commercial desiccant. Bloody emesis was the initial symptom, and various electrolyte imbalances developed during admission. Electrocardiogram (ECG) changes occurred early after hospitalization and disappeared before the electrolyte levels normalized. The patient was maintained in an NPO state throughout her hospital stay. Bloody emesis and abdominal pain resolved rather early, despite her minimal mention of symptoms, possibly due to her suspected negative psychiatric symptoms. Conclusions: The rise in suicidal attempts has led to an increase in unusual intoxication cases. Previous reports on CaCl2 ingestion primarily considered the gastrointestinal injury. In this case, we observed the dynamic and prolonged multiple electrolyte imbalances along with the early-phase ECG changes, all of which responded well to supportive care. This report adds to the understanding of the diverse manifestations and management of CaCl2 intoxication.
Optimization of N Fertilizer Type and Ridge/Furrow Ratio to Improve Resource Use Efficiency and Grain Yield of Rain‐Fed Winter Wheat in Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Qiang Shengcai , Zhang Yan , Fan Junliang , Zhang Fucang , Lin Wen , Gao Zhiqiang , Sun Min , Tang Xiwang
Published: December 2023

The ridge-furrow plastic mulching (RFPM) system and nitrogen application have been effective strategies for improving crop productivity in the Loess Plateau of China. However, it is not clear how the ridge-furrow ratio and nitrogen fertilizer type (NT) affect the utilization of water, nitrogen, heat and radiation resources for increased rain-fed wheat production. Two nitrogen fertilizer types [Traditional urea (TU) and controlled-release urea (CRU)] and four planting patterns [conventional flat planting (F) and the RFPM system of 20 cm ridge with 40 cm furrow (R2F4), 40 cm ridge with 40 cm furrow (R4F4), and 60 cm ridge with 40 cm furrow (R6F4)] were tested from September, 2018 to June, 2021 during winter wheat growing season. The results showed that the RFPM system can increase the soil thermal time (TTsoil) by 41.0–152.1°C d compared to F. The thermal effect of the RFPM system shortens the vegetative growth period and extends the reproductive growth period by 2–7 days, promoting the increase of the leaf area index (LAI) and final dry matter (DM) accumulation. These significantly increased the grain yield (GY) in the RFPM system by 51.6–115.2% and enhanced the thermal time use efficiency (TUE) by 48–99.5%, water productivity (WP) by 37.4–76.3%, radiation use efficiency (RUE) by 16.3–34.4%, and partial factor productivity of nitrogen (PFPN) by 51.6–115.2% compared to F. Although a high ridge-furrow ratio combined with CRU increased GY and resources use efficiency, it also exacerbated the soil water depletion, especially in the 40–140 cm soil layer. Overall, applying CRU in combination with the RFPM system of 40 cm ridge with 40 cm furrow maximized resources use efficiency and increased wheat production in the Loess Plateau of China.
Identification of Mobile Resistome in Soils Exposed to Different Impacts in Fildes Peninsula, King George Island
Authors: Giménez Matías , Azziz Gastón , Batista Silvia
Published: December 2023

Antimicrobial resistance is one of the most important global health issues identified in recent decades. Different approaches have been used to establish the presence and abundance of antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) in the environment. In this study, we analyzed soil samples from Fildes Peninsula (King George Island, maritime Antarctica), exposed to different types of impact. The objective of the work was to identify ARGs in the samples, and evaluate if these genes were located in plasmids, using two different strategies. A metagenomic analysis was used to identify ARGs and if they were associated to plasmid sequences. The analysis showed that the site highly exposed to anthropogenic activity had a higher number of ARGs compared to other sites. A high percentage of those ARGs (19.4%), were located in plasmidic contigs. We also assessed replicon mobilization, using microbial communities from these soil samples as donors through an exogenous plasmid isolation method. In this case, we could recover plasmids with ARGs in a Tcr transconjugant clone. Although they could not be fully assembled, we could detect broad host range IncP1 and IncQ plasmid sequences. Our results indicate that sewage impacted soils could be a hotspot for ARGs spread into the Antarctic environment
Optimizing Wheat Pollen Preservation for Enhanced Viability and In Vitro Germination
Authors: Khan Irum , Naeem Muhammad Kashif , Shahzad Armghan , Zhang Zijin , Chen Jing , Sajjad Muhammad
Published: December 2023

Wheat pollen, characterized by its short lifespan, exhibits rapid germination after anthesis. The preservation of wheat pollen is contingent upon environmental factors, including temperature, relative humidity, light, and wind. The objective is to develop a method for preserving wheat pollen effectively, specifically for the purpose of breeding. The short longevity of wheat pollen grains renders it impractical to conduct tests for pollen viability and in vitro germination on a large scale. Herein, the impact of storage temperatures and duration was assessed on pollen viability and in vitro germination to optimize storage conditions for preserving pollen viability. Pollen grains from 50 diverse spring wheat genotypes, each with three replicates, were harvested and stored at temperatures of 22°C, -20°C, and 4°C. Subsequently, pollen viability and in vitro germination rates were determined after storage of 1, 3, and 6 days. The results revealed that storage temperatures, durations, genotypes, and their interactions had a statistically significant impact on both pollen viability and in vitro germination. Notably, when pollen was kept at 22°C, almost all genotypes exhibited a loss of pollen viability and in vitro germination after 1, 3, and 6 days of storage. Likewise, storage at -20°C failed to extend pollen germination. However, at a storage temperature of 4°C, the pollen of 36 wheat genotypes exhibited a range of 6-14% in vitro pollen germination and remained viable even for 6 days. Simple linear regression analysis further revealed a significant negative correlation between pollen viability, in vitro germination, and storage time and temperature. In conclusion, our findings underscore 4°C as the optimal temperature for preserving pollen viability and in vitro pollen germination in spring wheat for up to 6 days. The results of the present study suggests that pollen viability of wheat is genotype de-pendent, storage temperature and storage duration. Thus, the 36 wheat genotypes identified during the present work could be efficiently maintained at 4◦C for short-term storage (6 days) and could be further used for genetics and breeding purposes.
An Overview of Parenteral Nutrition from Birth to Adolescence, Based on a Composite Fish Oil Containing Lipid Emulsion and a Pediatric Amino Acid Solution
Authors: GOULET Olivier
Published: December 2023

Intestinal failure (IF) is characterized by a critical reduction of functional gut mass below the minimum needed for optimal growth in children. It requires parenteral nutrition (PN) and home-PN (HPN) which is challenging in terms of meeting nutritional needs according to age, growth velocity, clinical situation, and rapid changes in fluid and electrolyte requirements. Due to these complex requirements, age-adapted multi-chamber bags (MCBs) are important additions to the nutrition armamentarium. The launch of composite fish oil (FO)-containing intravenous lipid emulsions (ILEs) heralded the development of MCBs containing these ILEs in combination with a crystalline amino acids solution (CAAS) adapted for pediatric use. The safety and efficacy of lipid and amino acid components in this context have been widely documented in numerous published studies. This manuscript includes a review of the articles published in PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar until June 2022, exploring studies in the age groups from term infants to children and adolescents. Preterm infants with their highly specific demands are not included. It aims to offer an overview of the clinical experience regarding the use of a composite FO-based ILE and a specific CAAS developed
Enhancing Breast Cancer Therapy: Nanocarrier-Based Targeted Drug Delivery
Authors: Pandey Ramendra , Dhiman Ruby , Bazad Nancy , Mukerjee Riya , Vidic Jasmina , Leal Elcio , Raj V. Samuel , Chang Chung-Ming
Published: December 2023

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common types of cancer in women. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), characterized by the absence of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), exhibits a highly aggressive phenotype with increased metastasis and resistance to conventional treatments. Nanocarrier technology is consistently employed to overcome limitations associated with traditional breast cancer therapy. The targeted drug delivery approach using nanocarriers enhances bioavailability, prolongs circulation, and facilitates effective drug accumulation at the tumor site through active or passive targeting. Currently, the FDA has approved a few nanocarrier systems, and numerous nano formulations are undergoing preclinical and clinical development for breast cancer targeting. Common nanocarrier types include polymeric micelles, microemulsions, magnetic microemulsions, liposomes, dendrimers, carbon nanotubes, and magnetic nanoparticles (NPs). This review extensively explores the targeting potential of nanocarriers in breast cancer. This study will provide a concise summary of current advances in treatment of breast cancer and diagnostics.
Artificial Neural Network-Based Computational Algorithm of Inverse Sumudu Transform Applied to Surface Transient Electromagnetic Sounding Method
Authors: Epov M.I. , Danilovskiy K.N. , Nechaev O.V. , Mikhaylov I.V.
Published: December 2023

––The paper discusses the results of the development of a deep learning-based algorithm of the inverse Sumudu transform applied to the problem of on-ground non-stationary electromagnetic sounding. The Sumudu transform has potential for solving forward geoelectric problems in three-dimensional earth models because, unlike using the Laplace or Fourier transform, the Sumudu image of a real function is also a real function. Thus, there is no need to use complex numbers in subsequent calculations, which reduces computational costs and memory requirements in case of successful determination of the Sumudu image of the function. The disadvantages of the approach include the absence of an explicit method for calculating the inverse transform. The inversion can be done by solving the corresponding Fredholm integral equation of the first kind, but this is a poorly conditioned task leading to high requirements for the accuracy of the Sumudu image. The use of modern machine learning techniques can provide a method that is more robust to noise in the input data. This paper describes the process of creating a training dataset and developing a neural network algorithm; we evaluate the accuracy and performance of the obtained solution. The proposed method can contribute to the development of new approaches to physical processes modeling as well as to analysis, processing and interpretation of measured geophysical data.
Evaluación ex post de los proyectos de innovación y emprendimiento en la Universidad del Magdalena
Authors: Angulo Luna Alex Antonio , Angulo Cuentas Gerardo Luis , Valderrama Fernández Giselle Jael
Published: December 2023

La presente investigación tiene como objetivo realizar la evaluación ex post de los proyectos de innovación y emprendimiento de la Universidad del Magdalena, desarrollados y finalizada su ejecución entre el 2017 y 2019. Mediante una metodología enfocada en el análisis de los informes finales entregados por los estudiantes responsables de estos proyectos y la recolección de información a partir de las encuestas diligenciadas por dichos estudiantes, se procedió a calificar el desempeño de los proyectos en una «Propuesta de Instrumento de Evaluación» diseñada a manera de rúbrica, con criterios valorativos y niveles de logro para cada componente de la evaluación ex post: eficiencia, pertinencia, sostenibilidad e impacto. Los resultados obtenidos de las evaluaciones a los proyectos con la aplicación del instrumento propuesto, muestran como factores de éxito el grado de desarrollo tecnológico, la identificación de la necesidad del segmento de mercado, la definición de una estructura de ingresos y costos, y el impacto esperado para el entorno. Es de resaltar que el instrumento propuesto está sustentado en una revisión de literatura sobre teorías validadas por instituciones o personajes exponentes de temas de innovación tecnológica, modelos de negocio y emprendimiento, susceptible de ser analizado en futuras investigaciones para complementar las referencias seleccionadas.
Land Subsidence Prediction in Coal Mining Using Machine Learning Models and Optimization Techniques
Authors: jahanmiri shirin , Noorian-Bidgoli Majid
Published: December 2023

Land surface subsidence is an environmental hazard resulting from the extraction of underground resources. In underground mining, when mineral materials are extracted deep within the ground, the emptying or caving of the mined spaces leads to vertical displacement of the ground, known as subsidence. This subsidence can extend to the surface as troughs subsidence, as the movement and deformation of the hanging-wall rocks of the mining stope propagate upwards. Accurately predicting subsidence is crucial for estimating damage and protecting surface buildings and structures in mining areas. Therefore, developing a model that considers all relevant parameters for subsidence estimation is essential. In this article, we discuss the prediction of land subsidence caused by the caving of a stop's roof, focusing on coal mining using the longwall method. We consider a total of 11 parameters related to coal mining, including mining thickness and depth (related to the deposit), as well as density, cohesion, internal friction angle, elasticity modulus, bulk modulus, shear modulus, Poisson's ratio, uniaxial compressive strength, and tensile strength (related to the overburden). We utilize information collected from 14 coal mines regarding mining and subsidence to achieve this. We then explore the prediction of subsidence caused by mining using the gene expression programming (GEP) algorithm, optimized through a combination of the artificial bee colony (ABC) and ant lion optimizer (ALO) algorithms. Modeling results demonstrate that combining the GEP algorithm with optimization based on the ABC algorithm yields the best subsidence prediction, achieving a correlation coefficient of 0.96. Furthermore, sensitivity analysis reveals that mining depth and density have the greatest and least effects, respectively, on land surface subsidence resulting from coal mining using the longwall method.
The most sustainable high entropy alloys for the future
Authors: Nomine Alexandre , El-Kasmi Ayyoub , Beaulieu Danielle , Ouahri Outhmane , Nguyen Thuy Huong , Amzil Wassim , Droussi Aymane , Kuksa Oleksandra , Katsarou Eirin , Labba Chahrazed , Boyer Anne , Henein Hani , Belmonte Thierry , Mitrofanova Elena , Samper Agnes , Milichko Valentin , Chernoburova Olga , Chagnes Alexandre , Cathelineau Michel , Cvelbar Uros , Zavasnik Janez
Published: December 2023

Because of the enormous number of potential compositions comparable to the number of stars in the universe, high entropy alloys (HEAs) are a virtually endless source of materials possessing versatile properties. Among them, HEAs are promising substitutes for critical elements such as rare earths or platinum group metals. Random or incremental development methods are neither practical nor efficient for exploration. Targeted guessing with sustainability in mind is a necessary enabler, but choosing the suitable sustainable composition of HEAs is challenging. In this paper, we examine the most sustainable HEAs among 30,201 alloys and extract the best 500 that will most likely shape the future of humanity. We consider various sustainability criteria such as carbon footprint, ESG ratings, production compatibility levels and reserves. The results provide a roadmap for HEA scientists and direct their experimental efforts towards the most sustainable compositions, supporting industry efforts while preserving time and resources.
A method for determination of the magnetization direction by probability tomography
Authors: Kim Jang Son , Kim Gang Sop , Kim Il Hyok
Published: December 2023

Knowledge of the total magnetization direction of the magnetic anomaly plays an important role in the interpretation of the magnetic survey data. Common methods for estimating the magnetization direction are those for calculating the correlation between the reduced-to-the-pole (RTP) field and the various transformation data of magnetic anomalies. A new method for estimating the magnetization direction through the analysis of magnetic anomalies by probability tomography in the presence of residual magnetization is proposed. The occurrence probability function of magnetic anomalies using probability tomography with the any magnetization inclination and declination was calculated, and then its maximum was searched. Then, the occurrence probability function maxima (OPFMs) at different magnetization inclinations and declinations were calculated and found that the correct magnetization direction corresponds to the largest value of the OPFMs. The proposed method is tested on both synthetic and field data. The results showed that this method was effective in a variety of situations and the computational process was simpler than the other methods.
Hypogonadism as a Consequence of Craniopharyngioma in Female Patients: Comparison of Childhood and Adult Onset and Effects of Estrogen Replacement Therapy
Authors: Ilovayskaya Irena , Zektser Vita
Published: December 2023

Purpose: 1) to compare clinical, biochemical features in female patients with hypoestrogenism due to childhood- and adult-onset CP; 2) to reveal effects of estrogen replacement therapy in female patients with childhood-onset CP.
Methods: Thirty-seven women that received specific treatment for CP in the period from 1980 to 2019 were recruited: 21 with childhood-onset and 16 with adult-onset CP. Clinical and hormonal characteristics were evaluated. Seventeen-beta-estradiol 2 mg and dydrogesterone 10 mg in sequential regiment was used in 18 childhood-onset cases. Mean follow-up was 31 months.
Results: Amenorrheic women with childhood- and adult-onset CP presented with the same complaints except for lack of genital hair and breast hypoplasia, which were common in patients with childhood-onset CP. BMI was lower in childhood-onset CP group, as was the proportion of overweight patients. They had more favorable lipid profile. The levels of estradiol, testosterone and DHEA-S were low and did not differ. Uterine and ovary volumes were reduced in all patients, but the decline was noticeable in the childhood-onset group. Mineral bone density of lumbar vertebrae was diminished in childhood-onset group. Estrogen therapy in these patients led to clinical improvement: increase in BMD in lumbar spine without negative changes in BMI and/or lipid profile.
Conclusions: study showed that women with childhood-onset CP had less negative metabolic changes. However, they have more pronounced breast and uterus hypoplasia and lower BMD in lumbar spine. The estrogen replacement therapy led to clinical improvement and BMD increase in lumbar spine without increase of BMI and/or lipid profile changes.
The Effect of Adding Physician Recommendation in Digitally-Enabled Outreach for COVID-19 Vaccination in Socially/Economically Disadvantaged Populations Subtitle: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Sumar Kamal , Blue Lisa , Fatahi Gina , Bhatti Atiq , Sumar Mehek , Alvarez Stephanie , Cons Pedro , Valencia Nathalie , Williams Zachary , Parthasarathy Sairam , Doubeni Chyke A.
Published: December 2023

Introduction: People from backgrounds that are economically/socially disadvantaged experienced disproportionately high COVID-19 death rates and had lower vaccination rates. Effective outreach strategies for increasing vaccine uptake during the pandemic are not fully known. Among patients receiving care at a Federally Qualified Health Center, we tested whether community engaged digitally-enabled outreach increased COVID vaccine uptake.
Study Design, Setting, and Participants: A 3-parallel-arm randomized controlled trial with a hybrid effectiveness-implementation design was conducted among patients ≥18 years old on study enrollment during 2021 with 1,650 assigned in 3:10:20 ratio; 2,328 were later selected for two subsequent implementation rounds.
Interventions: From April 13 to June 10, 2021, patients were proactively sent a text-messaging invitation to make an appointment for vaccination as part of the routine practice (Arm 1, n=150) with added personalized clinician recommendation alone (Arm 2, n=500) or with an explicit nudge for answers to frequently asked questions (Arm 3, n=1,000). Further implementation used messaging addressing vaccine hesitancy (n=1,323) or adverse reactions to vaccines (n=1,005).
Main Outcomes and Measures: The primary outcome was the completion of the first SARS-Cov-2 vaccine dose determined at 14, 30 and 90 days after outreach.
Results: Of 1,650 patients in effectiveness Arms, 61% was female. Vaccination rates for Arms 1, 2, and 3, were 6% (n=9), 5.4% (n=27) and 3.3% (n=33) at 14 days, and 11.5% (n=17), 11.6% (n=58), and 8.5% (n=85) at 90 days, respectively, which were similar in pairwise comparisons. At 90 days, vaccination rates were similar across the two implementation rounds (3.9% vs. 3.6%) and were similar to the rate (3.3%) among patients who were not selected for intervention arms or implementation rounds (n=8,671).
Conclusions: Digitally-enabled outreach that included SMS messaging outreach augmented with clinician recommendations did not improve COVID-19 vaccination rates.
Trial Registration: This study is registered at ClinicalTrails.gov Identifier: NC-T04952376
Investigating the Metabolite-Mediated Impact of Smoking on Lung Squamous Cell Carcinoma — A Univariate and Multivariate Two-Step Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Xu Zhilong , Wu Yimu , Zeng AO , Chen Keyi , Yin Yanze , Wang Chao , Fang Xinyun , Abuduwayiti Abudumijiti , Dai Jie , Jiang Gening , Wang Jiarui
Published: December 2023

This research focuses on smoking as a key factor in lung squamous cell carcinoma, aiming to understand its precise mechanisms. Emphasizing blood metabolites as intermediary variables, the study employs a two-step Mendelian randomization analysis, including univariable and multivariable approaches, to uncover pathways connecting smoking to lung cancer. The significance of this investigation lies in addressing the prevalence of smoking-related cancers, contributing to preventive strategies. Identified blood metabolites may serve as biomarkers or therapeutic targets. Tasks include using MR methods like inverse variance weighting, MR-Egger regression, and weighted median, considering potential confounding factors. Prerequisite knowledge encompasses the understanding of genetic variants associated with smoking, blood metabolites, and lung squamous cell carcinoma for a nuanced analysis.
Comparative Study of Permeation Effects between Vibrating Microneedle and Low-Frequency Sonophoresis Systems
Authors: LIU Tingting , CHEN Kai , YAN Zhigang , WANG Qiao
Published: December 2023

Background: Microneedle transdermal administration and low-frequency ultrasound represent two important physical penetration-promoting methods for enhancing drug penetration. This article aims to investigate and compare the effects of drug penetration enhancement through transdermal administration using vibrating microneedles versus low-frequency sonophoresis.
Methods: In vitro permeation studies were conducted using Valia-Chien double chamber diffusion cells to evaluate the transdermal delivery of tetramethylpyrazine hydrochloride (TMPH). The TMPH concentration in the receiving compartment was determined using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Several combinations of microneedles and ultrasound settings were investigated, including different needle lengths, vibration frequencies, exposure times, and assorted distances of ultrasound horn and skin.
Results: The results revealed the vibrating microneedle system as the most efficacious treatment to increase the TMPH permeability into the rat skin. The combination of a larger needle, higher frequency, and a 3-min exposure led to a 41.92-fold increase in cumulative permeability compared to the control group. The ultrasound treatment exhibited a moderate enhancement effect on TMPH skin penetration. Using a horn-to-skin distance of 3 mm and a 3-min exposure resulted in a 4.34-fold increase in TMPH cumulative permeation compared to the control group.
Conclusion: It could be concluded that while both the vibrating microneedle and the low-frequency ultrasound systems act as penetration enhancers for promoting the TMPH permeation through the skin, the vibrating microneedle system notably demonstrates a more effective penetration-promoting effect.
Impact of removing ESBL testing report from cultures on the selection of antibiotics for the treatment and 30-day mortality of patients infected with ESBL-producing organisms
Authors: Waeuseng Sofia , Kiertiburanakul Sasisopin , Malathum Kumthorn
Published: December 2023

Background
The increasing incidence of carbapenem-resistant organisms is well recognized as a global crisis. Several studies have identified previous carbapenem use as a risk factor for the subsequent development of infections with carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative organisms. We characterized the impact of the removal of the ESBL designation from microbiology reports on inpatient antibiotic prescribing and mortality.
Methods
This was a historical control and interventional analysis performed in a 1300-bed university hospital to compare 1 year before (1 August 2019 to 31 July 2020) and 1 year after removal of the ESBL designation (1 August 2020 to 31 July 2021), with a 1-month washout period (1 August 2020 to 31 August 2020). All statistical tests were two-tailed, and P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results
A total of 213 and 207 patients were included before and after elimination of the ESBL designation in the Hospital Information System. The most commonly isolated organism was Escherichia coli. The most common specimen in which these organisms were detected was urine (57.8% and 62.2%, before and after periods). Definitive prescribing of carbapenems, as the primary outcome, decreased from 56.5–41.3% (P = 0.01); cefepime prescribing decreased from 13.6–3.5% (P < 0.05); and piperacillin-tazobactam use increased significantly from 10.4–28.7% (P < 0.05). TMP-SMX was prescribed more frequently, increasing from 0 to 2.8%; however, this change was not statistically significant. The 30-day mortality rate from any cause did not differ between the before and after periods, with 22/154 patients (14.3%) before and 24/143 (16.8%) after (P = 0.55). There was a non-statistically significant decrease in carbapenem prescriptions for definitive treatment of bacteremia caused by ESBL-producing organisms (84.4% and 68.6%; P = 0.155), while definitive piperacillin-tazobactam prescribing increased from 0 to 6.0% (P = 0.025), comparing the before and after periods, respectively. Carbapenem prescriptions for urinary tract infections decreased from 49.4–28.1% (P = 0.005), while piperacillin-tazobactam was prescribed more often (11.2% versus 32.6%; P = 0.001) (before and after, respectively); carbapenem use for pneumonia did not decrease.
Conclusions
Definitive prescribing of carbapenems and cefepime decreased and piperacillin-tazobactam use increased after removal of the ESBL report. Our findings confirm the importance of collaboration between microbiology and antimicrobial stewardship programs.
Edge states in 2D A2BX4 lead halide perovskites enabled by local structural reorganization
Authors: Li Wei , Li Zhi-Gang , Li Xiang , Dong Xiao-Hui , Song Hai-Peng , Li Zi-Ying , Wu Xiang , Kupenko Ilya , Hanfland Michael , Glazyrin Konstantin , Even Jacky , Bu Xian-He
Published: December 2023

The edge states (ES) inherent in 2D hybrid lead halide perovskites (LHPs) play host to free carriers of low energy and extended lifetimes which is distinct from the tightly bound excitons found in the interior states (IS). Though the ES of these 2D LHPs show prospect of facilitating photovoltaic effects, the underlying mechanism remains elusive. Here, we reveal the occurrence of ES in a family of 2D A2PbBr4 (A = organic amine cation) LHPs is attributed to the Rashba/Dresselhaus (RD) spin splitting caused by local structural reorganization on the crystal edge. The experimental and theoretical characterizations reveal that the local structure on the crystal edge is significantly strained, which leads to considerable out-of-plane distortion of adjacent PbBr6 octahedra, local loss of inversion symmetry and therefore spin-splitting energy required for the formation of ES. Our findings contribute fresh perspectives to the fundamental comprehension of the RD effect, extending the boundaries of spintronics and opening promising pathways for the conceptualization and refinement of devices centered on ES.
A live online exercise program for older adults improves depression and life-space mobility: A mixed-methods pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Coletta Giulia , Noguchi Kenneth S. , Beaudoin Kayla D. , McQuarrie Angelica , Tang Ada , Griffin Meridith , Ganann Rebecca , Phillips Stuart M.
Published: December 2023

Background
Aging is the primary risk factor for sarcopenia and mobility limitations. Exercise reduces these risks, but older adults have lower levels of participation in physical activity and exercise. We investigated the preliminary effectiveness of a live, online exercise program on community-dwelling older adults' physical activity levels.
Methods
A mixed-method pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted according to CONSORT 2010 statement: extension for pilot and feasibility trials. Sedentary, generally healthy older adults (65–80 years) were randomly assigned to the online exercise intervention (ACTIVE) or a waitlist control (CON) group. Outcomes were measured pre-randomization and following the 8-week intervention for ACTIVE and CON and two months following the end of the intervention for the ACTIVE group. Outcomes included habitual physical activity levels, depression, anxiety, loneliness, life-space mobility, nutrition risk, and feasibility. All participants were invited to participate post-intervention in individual semi-structured qualitative interviews. Reporting of the qualitative research followed the checklist for the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting research.
Results
Seventeen older adults (71% women) were allocated to ACTIVE group, while 15 were allocated to CON group (87% women). Following the intervention, participants in the ACTIVE group reported reduced feelings of depression and improved life-space mobility compared to waitlist control participants. The ACTIVE group had good adherence (97%) and acceptability (98%). Twenty-two participants participated in qualitative interviews. Four themes were identified, including (1) Feasibility of the online exercise program; (2) Perceived health benefits and improvements; (3) Registered Kinesiologists and Physiotherapists contributed to perceived safety; (4) Social connectivity associated with synchronous/live delivery; and (5) Growing old gracefully and preventing disability.
Conclusions
Our online exercise program was acceptable to older adults, had good adherence, reduced depression, and increased life space. Participants reported improved functional and mental health benefits. Further research is warranted to expand on these findings.
Trial registration
NCT04627493; 13/11/2020
Artificial Intelligence and exporting performance: Firm-level evidence from Portuga
Authors: Barbosa Natalia
Published: December 2023

The adoption of new digital technologies offer new opportunities and has the scope to engender positive effects on firms' expansion and success in international markets. This paper examine the main factors driving the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and AI-related digital technologies that enable the Industry 4.0 transformation and whether these new generation of digital technologies affect exporting performance at firm level. Using a rich and representative sample of Portuguese firms over the period 2014-2020, the estimated results suggest that firm's ex-ante performance, digital infrastructures and in-house ICT skills are the main drivers of digitalisation. However, conditional to ex-ante firm's performance, there are heterogenous effects on exporting performance across digital technologies and across industries. Moreover, there is evidence of positive selection towards large firms, casting doubts on the inclusiveness of the adoption process and the performance effects of AI and AI-related technologies.
JEL Classi cation: L20, H81, L25
Exploring Spatial variation and determinants of the Minimum Dietary Diversity among Children in Cambodia: A Multilevel Analysis Using Four Rounds of Demographic Health Survey (2005-2022)
Authors: Singh Anjali , Rahut Dil B , Sonobe Tetsushi
Published: December 2023

Nutritional security is fundamental for fostering the human capital development of nations and, hence, future prosperity and economic growth. The dietary diversity among children is a crucial factor influencing the nutritional status of the children; therefore, this paper uses data from five rounds of the Cambodia Demographic Health Survey spanning from 2005 to 2022 to examine the minimum dietary diversity among children aged 6–23 months. Multilevel binary regression model is used to evaluate the demographic variation such as age, sex, access to ante natal care and health services, wealth, mother education etc impact minimum dietary diversity and account for variations at the cluster and province levels. The result shows that nearly half of Cambodian children consistently lacked access to vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables. Though the prevalence of inadequate minimum dietary diversity among children has significantly dropped from 76 percent in 2005 to 51 percent in 2021-22, it is still high and needs attention. A decomposition analysis were further used to understand the drivers of this temoparal change in diet diversity. The empirical result shows that clusters represented the most significant source of geographic variation regarding children’s dietary patterns, particularly with respect to all eight food groups and MDD. Nutritional policy should improve education and awareness, reduce socio-economic disparities, leverage media, and promote full antenatal care to improve diet diversity in Cambodia. Initiatives targeting the enhancement of insufficient minimum dietary diversity intake should encompass individual aspects and be customized to suit geographic and community settings.
Age-associated modifications in blood counts. The findings from an outpatient population of northern Italy
Authors: Bertolotti Marco , Pirotti Tommaso , Tarabini Giulia Isha Castellani , Lancellotti Giulia , Cuccorese Michela , Trenti Tommaso , Mussi Chiara
Published: December 2023

A reduction in hemoglobin levels is common in older subjects, and might be considered, in some instances, physiological.
The objective of this study was to investigate the association between changes in blood counts and aging, in a large outpatient population.
We examined blood count examinations in the province of Modena, Italy, in the period January 2010-August 2022. Data were analyzed with the platform Anaconda 3, Python 3.7.
Appropriate hemoglobin data were 5,116,140. Hemoglobin levels over age 75 were largely under the lower limit in both sexes (respectively, 49.3% and 35.4% over 552,938 exams). Taking a single value per person per year the trend was similar. To exclude patients with organ disease, we limited our observation to subjects with normal values of serum glucose, creatinine and ALT. In this set of 974.090 analyses, more than 25% of older males were still below normal values.
In this outpatient population a relevant proportion of older male subjects showed hemoglobin levels below normal. The exclusion of patients with altered liver or kidney tests and hyperglycemia appears to exclude significant systemic diseases.
These findings suggest caution in the interpretation of blood counts in old age, and might support a re-definition of normal laboratory values in this population.
Spatial patterns as long transients in submersed-floating plant competition with biocontrol
Authors: Xu Linhao , DeAngelis Donald L.
Published: December 2023

A cellular automata model was developed and parameterized to test the effectiveness of application of biological control insects to water hyacinth (Pontederia crassipes), which is an invasive floating plant species in many parts of the world and outcompetes many submersed native aquatic species in southern Florida. In the model, P. crassipes is allowed to compete with Nuttall’s waterweed (Elodea nuttallii). In the absence of biocontrol acting on the P. crassipes, E. nuttallii excluded P. crassipes at low concentrations of the limiting nutrient (nitrogen), and the reverse occurred at high nutrient concentrations. At intermediate values, alternative stable states could occur; either P. crassipes alone or a mixture of the two species. When the biocontrol agent, the weevil Neochetina eichhorniae, was applied in the model, there was initially a rapid reduction of the P. crassipes, However, over time a regular striped pattern emerged of moving spatially alternating stripes of P. crassipes and E. nuttallii. This pattern of moving stripes persisted over thousands of days, but in some simulations the pattern was suddenly replaced by an irregular temporally varying pattern that lasted indefinitely. Thus, the striped patterns is an example of a long transient. The irregular spatio-temporal pattern that replaces it appears to be permanent, though that has not yet been established. Model parameters were varied to study effects of plant growth rate, nutrient concentration and nutrient diffusion rate on the dynamics of the system.
Predicting the risk of radiation enteritis in cervical cancer patients using inflammatory markers through machine learning
Authors: Jiang Kaijun , Jia Lianyin , Xia Yaoxiong , Ai Yiqin , Li Yanqing
Published: December 2023

Methods
A total of 228 patients diagnosed with cervical squamous cell carcinoma of stage IB-IIIB and undergoing radical RT were included in the study. The LASSO method was utilized to identify crucial features associated with RE. Clinical characteristics and inflammatory markers pre/post-treatment were used to develop five machine learning models, comprising a training set and validation set (80% of participants), which were then assessed in the remaining study sample (20% of participants). The area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUROC) and Brier scores were employed to compare the prediction performances of different models. The Random Forest (RF) Classifier model was employed for predicting RE, with interpretation provided by the SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) package. (3)
Results
The RF model demonstrated superior performance compared to other classifier models in the training set (area under the curve [AUC]: 1.000, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.000–1.000) and the validation set (AUC: 0.757, 95% CI: 0.636–0.878). Additionally, this model achieved the lowest Brier Score (0.163). Nine crucial variables, including LMR, Pre_N, Post_P, FIGO, Post_L, Post_Hb, UBI, Tumor, and DPT_high, were selected. (4)
Conclusions
This pioneering study's predictive model will enhance understanding of the risk of RE and provide clinicians with a valuable tool based on inflammatory markers (4 factors) and clinical parameters (5 factors) in cervical cancer for guiding patient treatment.
Research and Practice of Quasi-Geoid Model Refinement Method Based on the Gravity Field Model in the Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River Basin
Authors: Wu Hao , Zhang Xiaomeng
Published: December 2023

This paper described the quasi-geoid refinement methods based on the EGM2008 gravity field model and the remove-and-restore method in the Middle Yangtze River as well as strategies for improvements. We combined existing data in the Middle Yangtze River and the EGM2008 gravity field model, adopt six kinds of kriging interpolation models, two neural network models, the least squares quadratic polynomial fitting method as well as the steady weighted least squares quadratic polynomial fitting method to establish a quasi-geoid refinement model for two types of experimental areas, and analyzed the internal and external conformity accuracy for equal-precision evaluation as well as the unequal-precision evaluation accuracy for the whole quasi-geoid refinement model. All accuracy statistics results of ten model refinement methods in two different study areas satisfy the requirement of urban-level regional quasi-geoid refinement accuracy. The results show that the regional quasi-geoid refinement model based on EGM2008 can obtain comparable accuracy compared to the seven-parameter model, and avoid the disadvantages of the limited scope of the seven-parameter model and the need to build the model in sections, which can effectively reduce the workload of complicated leveling measurement.
Research on the Accuracy of Different MRI Measurement Methods in Locating the Internal Os of the Cervix
Authors: Liu Mingming , Zheng Xingzheng , Mo Na , Liu Yang , Jin Erhu , Liang Yuting
Published: December 2023

Background The correlation between the radiologicalinternal os of the cervix and histological or anatomical internal os is unclear. The study aimed to compare the accuracy of three measurement methods for locating the internal os of the cervix on MRI images.
Methods Data from 28 patients who underwent total hysterectomy for stage I endometrial cancer were prospectively collected. The cervical length was measured on MRI images. The cervical length measured on the removed uterus specimens was the standard. The differences in cervical length measured by the three methods on MRI images and their differences with the length of the cervical specimens, using the generalized estimating equations(GEE) method. The linearity method was used to compare the correlation between the cervical lengths measured on MRI images and the length of the cervical specimens.
Results On MRI images, the cervical length was 2.889cm(95% CI: 2.746cm-3.032cm), 2.843cm(95% CI: 2.686cm-3.000cm), 2.893cm(95% CI: 2.782cm-3.004cm). The length of the cervix in the uterine specimen after hysterectomy was 2.889cm(95% CI: 2.775cm-3.004cm) (P-values all >0.05). The correlation coefficients of the cervical lengths measured on MRI images and gross uterus specimens were 0.821, 0.864, and 0.842, respectively (P-values all >0.05).
Conclusion All three measurement methods on MRI can accurately locate the histological internal os of the cervix，not the anatomical internal os. This provides a basis for designing surgical procedures to preserve fertility in endometrial and cervical cancer patients.
Trial registration This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University. The informed consent was signed for this prospective analysis.