bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of glycemic indicators on early neurological outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke treated with intravenous thrombolysis
Authors: Duan Zuowei , Li Zhining , Zhang Cuicui , Zhang Jun , Hu Ting , Wei Xiu’e , Rong Liangqun , Zhai Yujia , Liu Haiyan
Published: July 2023

Background: To investigate the predictive value of the glycemic indicators for early neurological outcomes (ENO) in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) treated with intravenous thrombolysis (IVT).
Methods: The prospective collected database of AIS undergoing IVT at the Department of Neurology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University between January 2017 and Jun 2022 was retrospectively reviewed. ENO includes early neurological improvement (ENI) and early neurological deterioration (END), which was defined as a decrease or an increase in NIHSS score between baseline and 24 hours after IVT. The associations between glycemic indicators (including admission hyperglycemia [AH], fasting blood glucose [FBG] and Stress hyperglycemia ratio [SHR]) and ENO were analyzed in all patients and subgroups stratified by diabetes mellitus (DM).
Results: A total of 819 patients with AIS treated with IVT were finally included. Of which, AH was found in 329 patients (40.2%). Compared with patients without AH, patients with AH were more likely to have a higher prevalence of DM (P﹤0.001) and hypertension (P=0.031), and presented with higher admission NIHSS score(P﹤0.001). During the first 24 h after IVT, END was observed in 208 patients (25.4%), and ENI was observed in 156 patients (19.0%). Compared to neither ENI nor END, END was independently associated with AH (OR=1.744, 95%CI: 1.236-2.463, P=0.002), FBG(OR=1.077, 95%CI: 1.017-1.141, P=0.012) and SHR(OR=1.600, 95%CI: 1.025-2.495, P=0.038). While none of the glycemic indicators was unrelated to the presence of ENI. Subgroup analysis indicated that AH (OR­DM=1.954, 95%CI: 1.061-3.601, P=0.032; ORNon-DM=1.602, 95CI: 1.027-2.499, P=0.038), FBG (OR­DM=1.105, 95%CI: 1.008-1.212, P=0.034; ORNon-DM=1.111, 95CI: 1.017-1.213, P=0.020), SHR(OR­DM=3.126, 95%CI: 1.315-7.429, P=0.010; ORNon-DM=2.200, 95CI: 1.200-4.034, P=0.011) were all independently related to END both in patients with DM and those without DM. Nevertheless, none of the glycemic indicators was found associated with ENI in patients with DM and those without DM.
Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that AH, FBG and SHR in stroke patients treated with IVT were associated with the presence of END rather ENI during the first 24 hours after admission.
Biosynthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticles from Punica granatum (pomegranate) peel waste and its application to inhibit foodborne pathogens
Authors: Farouk Salma M. , Abd-Elhalim Basma T. , Mohamed Reham M. , Arabe Naira M. , Hussain Ahmed A. T. , Mostafa Mostafa E. , Hemdan Bahaa , Sedeek Salwa M. , Bakry Ashraf , Ebeed Naglaa , Elhariry Hesham , Galal Ahmed , Abu-Hussien Samah H.
Published: July 2023

Despite their role in controlling pathogens, the misuse of antibiotics leads to the antibiotic resistance phenomenon. The biosynthesis process of silver nanoparticles from plant extracts has earned wide regard worldwide because of its eco-friendly characteristics. The current study aims to biosynthesize and characterize silver nanoparticles from pomegranate peel waste PPW-AgNPs as well as test their antimicrobial potentials against foodborne pathogens. Ultraviolet (UV) spectrum, X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), Zeta potential, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis were used to characterize the produced PPW-AgNPs. The colour change from yellow to brown, the detection of a peak in a UV spectrum at 440 nm of 0.9 SPR, and four intense peaks in XRD and SEM analysis revealed the existence of spherical particles of PPW-AgNPs. Zeta potential was − 0.03 revealing the negative charge of PPW-AgNPs. Eight foodborne pathogenic strains (6 bacteria and 2 fungal strains) Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633, Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212, Escherichia coli ATCC 8379, Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 00607, Salmonella typhi DSM 17058, Shigella sonnei DSM 5570, Aspergillus flavus ATCC 9643, and Rhizopus oryzae ATCC 96382 were used to test the inhibitory potential of PPW-AgNPs. All silver nanoparticles exhibited high antimicrobial activity against all tested strains. The most sensitive strain was B. subtilis while the highest resistant one was R. oryzae with IZD of 4.5 and 0.96cm. Pomegranate peel waste plays a key role in the simple, eco-friendly green synthesis of extracellular stable AgNPs as an alternative source for harmful chemical disinfectants.
A Comparative Study between Kähler and Non-Kähler Hyperbolicity
Authors: Marouani Samir
Published: July 2023

In this note, we establish a connection between SKT and balanced hyperbolicity, highlighting their relationship with Kähler hyperbolicity in the sense of Gromov.
MSC code: 2020: 32Q45, 53C55, 14F25, 14F40, 53C30.
The patient's subjective experiences should make person-centred care visible in stem cell transplantation care - a qualitative study
Authors: SVANBERG Anncarin , WALLIN Alexandra
Published: July 2023

Purpose
To describe patients’ subjective experiences, reported in a study specific questionnaire with open-ended questions, when being treated and cared for during autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and to further discuss the importance of person-centred care in a clinical context.
The hematopoietic stem cell transplant affected the patients' physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Taking patients' needs into account can improve the care experience and alleviate the impact of difficulties during the transplant period. According to the Swedish Patient Act (2014: 821), patients have the right to be involved in their care
Methods
Sixty-four patients were asked to participate in the study and chose to take part. Fifty-two patients fulfilled the study specific questionnaire (81%). A thematic analysis, was performed with the support of Braun and Clarke, including both inductive and semantic approaches. This is secondary data, part of a larger project evaluating patient experience of safety and security in care during autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation regardless of inpatient or outpatient care. The study has a qualitative, pragmatic, comparative design.
Results
Three themes emerged from the analysed data: subjectively perceived positive information and support; subjectively perceived negative information and support; subjective desired increased possibility of person-centred care.
Conclusions
The results of the upcoming study can design new functional tools to support person-centred care in the care of patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation or cared for in the haematology department. The results revealed, despite unequally distributed groups, similar subjective experiences of care.
Enhanced immune ageing associated with increasing COVID-19 disease severity
Authors: Lord Janet , Veenith Tonny , Sullivan Jack , Oates Archana , Richter Alex , Greening Neil , McAuley Hamish , Evans Rachael , Moss Paul , Moore Shoona , Turtle Lance , Gautam Nandan , Gilani Ahmed , Bajaj Manan , Wain Louise , Brightling Christopher , Raman Betty , Marks Michael , Singapuri Amisha , Elneima Omer , Openshaw Peter , Duggal Niharika A
Published: July 2023

Background
The striking increase in COVID-19 severity in older adults provides a clear example of immunesenescence, the age-related remodelling of the immune system. To better characterise the association between convalescent immunesenescence and acute disease severity, we determined the immune phenotype of COVID-19 survivors and non-infected controls.
Results
We performed detailed immune phenotyping of peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from 103 COVID-19 survivors 3–5 months post recovery who were classified as having had severe (n = 56; age 53.12 ± 11.30 years), moderate (n = 32; age 52.28 ± 11.43 years) or mild (n = 15; age 49.67 ± 7.30 years) disease and compared with age and sex-matched healthy adults (n = 59; age 50.49 ± 10.68 years). We assessed a broad range of immune cell phenotypes to generate a composite score, IMM-AGE, to determine the degree of immune senescence. We found increased immunesenescence features in severe COVID-19 survivors compared to controls including: a reduced frequency and number of naïve CD4 and CD8 T cells (p < 0.0001); increased frequency of EMRA CD4 (p < 0.003) and CD8 T cells (p < 0.001); a higher frequency (p < 0.0001) and absolute numbers (p < 0.001) of CD28− ve CD57+ ve senescent CD4 and CD8 T cells; higher frequency (p < 0.003) and absolute numbers (p < 0.02) of PD-1 expressing exhausted CD8 T cells; a two-fold increase in Th17 polarisation (p < 0.0001); higher frequency of memory B cells (p < 0.001) and increased frequency (p < 0.0001) and numbers (p < 0.001) of CD57+ ve senescent NK cells. As a result, the IMM-AGE score was significantly higher in severe COVID-19 survivors than in controls (p < 0.001). Few differences were seen for those with moderate disease and none for mild disease. Regression analysis revealed the only pre-existing variable influencing the IMM-AGE score was South Asian ethnicity (\(\beta\) = 0.174, p= 0.043), with a major influence being disease severity (\(\beta\) = 0.188, p = 0.01).
Conclusions
Our analyses reveal a state of enhanced immune ageing in survivors of severe COVID-19 and suggest this could be related to SARS-Cov-2 infection. Our data support the rationale for trials of anti-immune ageing interventions for improving clinical outcomes in these patients with severe disease.
Multiple time-scale analysis of information representation for diverse learning rules among neurons
Authors: Noyama Hiroki , Iguchi Ryuki , Tanaka Mai , Li Bin , Kotani Kiyoshi , Jimbo Yasuhiko
Published: July 2023

Neural networks are complex systems in which multiple time-scale variables interact with each other, and how synaptic plasticity represents information related to firing activity is poorly understood. In this study, we constructed a synaptic plasticity model that considers physiological constraints by incorporating the strength of synaptic connections, dependent on the spike-timing-dependent plasticity (STDP) rule, into the voltage dependent theta neuron model. Next, we analyzed the multiple time-scale behaviors of the pulse-coupled oscillator system constructed using the synaptic plasticity model. The results show that the two-body system, which interacts by the product of conductance and potential difference, converges to the equilibrium point without chaotic solutions, that various coupling states are possible depending on the combination of learning rule and reversal potential values, that the number of clusters in the multi-body system can be predicted from the analysis results for the two-body system and that the final convergence point and vector field changed little for either excitatory or inhibitory neurons when the external current \(I\) was set to around the value at which the neuron spontaneously fires.
Traffic Flow Prediction on Graph with Node-level Curriculum Scheduler
Authors: Zhang Zhiwen , Wang Hongjun , Fan Zipei , Song Xuan , Shibasaki Ryosuke
Published: July 2023

Traffic flow prediction is a critical part of the intelligent transportation system , and many schemes have been proposed for accurate flow prediction based on traffic sensors. However, existing approaches mainly capture spatial-temporal (ST) dependencies from the traffic graph and train their models using randomly ordered data. This approach ignores the fact that the modeling difficulty of each sensor/node from the traffic graph can vary significantly due to its spatial dependencies and temporal trends, leading to unreliable and unstable predictions for each traffic sensor in real-world applications. These issues motivated us to design a more effective training process for sensors with different levels of difficulty. The ST modeling difficulty stems from two factors: (I) deviations between the normal component and abnormal component in the time sequences; and (II) deviations between the learned relation and the explicit relation of a predetermined graph in the spatial dependencies. In this case, we argue that a well-designed curriculum with an easy-to-difficult order can benefit the training of ST models. This approach draws inspiration from the human learning principle that models should first learn straightforward concepts before tackling more difficult ones. To implement this approach, this paper proposes a method to measure the ST difficulty at the node level of traffic graphs from both spatial and temporal aspects. Then, it conducts a curriculum during the ST model training procedure. Specifically, 1 based on the ST difficulty score, the model training starts from a subgraph whose nodes are considered ”easy” because of their relatively consistent spatial relationships and regular temporal patterns. After that, more difficult nodes are gradually added to the subgraph and participate in the following training stages. We have conducted extensive experiments on two public traffic datasets, which show the superiority of our proposed curriculum scheduler over multiple state-of-the-art ST models.
Preoperative Controlling Nutritional Status(CONUT) as an optimal prognostic nutritional index to predict the long-term outcome after radical surgery for colorectal cancer
Authors: Liu Lixiang , Miao Ji , Gao Bo , Yuan Qinggang , Zhou Shizhen , Xu Tingting , Ding Chao , Guan wenxian
Published: July 2023

Background
Controlled nutritional status (CONUT) can effectively reflect the nutritional status of the body, which is closely related to cancer prognosis. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the CONUT score and prognosis after radical surgery for colorectal cancer, and to compare the predictive ability of the CONUT score with other indexes.
Methods
A retrospective analysis included 217 patients with newly diagnosed colorectal cancer was performed. The CONUT score was calculated based on the serum albumin level, total lymphocyte count, and total cholesterol level. The cutoff value of the CONUT score for predicting prognosis was 4 according to the Youden Index by Receiver operating characteristic curve. The associations between the CONUT score and the prognosis were performed by Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox regression analysis.
Results
Stratified by the cutoff value of the CONUT score, patients were divided into CONUT LOW group(n = 189) and CONUT HIGH group (n = 28). CONUT HIGH group had worse overall survival(p = 0.013) and Replase-free survival(P = 0.015). The predictive performances of CONUT were superior to NLR, mGPS and PNI. Meanwhile, the predictive performances of CONUT + TNM stage for 3-year OS (AUC = 0.803) and 3-year RFS (AUC = 0.765) were no less than SMI + TNM stage. The CONUT score was negatively correlated with SMI(p<0.01).
Conclusions
The CONUT score as a nutritional indicator could predict long-term outcome after radical surgery for colorectal cancer, and its predictive ability was superior to other indexes. The correlation between the CONUT score and skeletal muscle may be one of the factors that play a predictive role.
The triangular area between the Greater, Lesser, and Third Occipital Nerves and its possible clinical significance
Authors: Sağlam Latif , Gayretli Özcan , Coşkun Osman , Kale Ayşin
Published: July 2023

Purpose: Occipital Neuralgia (ON) is defined as a unilateral or bilateral pain in the posterior area of the scalp occurring in the distribution area or areas of the greater occipital nerve (GON), lesser occipital nerve (LON), and/or third occipital nerve (TON). In the present study, the purpose was to show the possible importance of the triangular area (TA) in nerve block applied in ON by measuring the TA between GON, TON, and LON.
Methods: A total of 24 cadavers (14 male, 10 female) were used in the present study. The suboccipital region was dissected, revealing the points where the GON and TON pierced the trapezius muscle and superficial area, and the point where the LON left the sternocleidomastoid muscle from its posterior edge and was photographed. The area of the triangle between the superficial points of these three nerves and the center of gravity of the triangle (CGT) were determined by using the Image J Software and the results were analyzed statistically.
Results: The mean TA values were 952.82 ± 313.36 mm2 and 667.55 ± 273.82 mm2, respectively in male and female cadavers. Although no statistically significant differences were detected between the sides (p> 0.05), a statistically significant difference was detected between the genders (p< 0.05). The mean CGT value was located approximately 5 cm below and 3-3.5 cm laterally from the external occipital protuberance in both genders and sides.
Conclusion: In ON that has more than one occipital nerve involvement, all occipital nerves can be blocked by targeting TA with a single occipital nerve block, and thus, the side effects that may arise from additional blocks can be reduced. The fact that there was a statistically significant difference according to the genders in the TA suggests that different block amounts can be applied according to gender.
Second ejaculation produces good quality sperm and decreases the rate of unexpected ICSI cycle
Authors: Zhang Xiaohui , Wang Shikai , Huang Yueyue , Mao Xianbao , Li Zhengda , Wei Pingpin , Chen Liangshi , Li Dawen , Xue Lintao
Published: July 2023

Background:Second ejaculation can influence sperm quality which may define the first line treatment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a second ejaculation in decreasing the intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) rate in unexpected ICSI cycle.Methods:A retrospective study of unexpected ICSI cycle and conventional in vitro fertilization IVF was conducted. The unexpected ICSI group was subdivided into the second ejaculation IVF and ICSI groups based on second ejaculation semen parameters after swim-up. To predict the influence of sperm protein between two ejaculation semen, the PXD010695 dataset and differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were downloaded and subjected to bioinformatics analysis.Results:Semen volume and sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) were lower, whereas sperm concentration, total sperm count, progressive motility and total progressive motility sperm count after swim-up were higher during the second ejaculation. A lower rate of fertilization, a higher rate of good-quality embryos on day 3 and good-quality blastocyst were found in the second ejaculation IVF group. There was no significant difference among the groups in rate of rescue ICSI, oocytes utilization rate, clinical pregnancy, implantation, miscarriage, and live birth. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that the second ejaculation with downregulated proteins is related to a reduction in motility and forms a protein module with glutathione metabolism.Conclusion:For unexpected ICSI group, second ejaculation IVF produced good quality sperm and could be an economical and secure alternative to decrease the rate of unexpected ICSI.
Influence of nanosilica on properties of NR/EPDM composites
Authors: S Pradeep Kumar , G Prabhakaran , S Vishvanathperumal
Published: July 2023

In this study, the impacts of nanosilica on the properties of natural rubber and ethylene-propylene-diene rubber blends (NR/EPDM; 70/30 phr/phr) were examined. Utilising the melt compounding method, the composites were developed. The effects of thioctic acid (TA) on the surface modification of silica (SiO2) are compared to those of bis(3-triethoxysilylpropyl)tetrasulfide (TESPT)/polyoxyethylene (20) sorbitan monolaurate (TWEEN-20) on the curing, mechanical, tensile and compression set, and swelling properties of nanocomposites in this study. In NR/EPDM composites, the nanosilica made from rice husk ash was employed as reinforcing nanofiller. For the production of rubber composites, the interaction at the interface between the nanosilica and the NR/EPDM matrix is essential. The 2:1 ratio between TESPT and TWEEN-20 is maintained in this study's utilisation of TESPT and TWEEN-20 as a silica modifier. It has been found that the attributes of NR/EPDM blends are mostly influenced by the presence of TA modified nanosilica. When compared to pure NR/EPDM blends, the incorporation of TA modified nanosilica considerably increased tensile and tear strength by up to 76% and 48%, respectively. Swell measurement, abrasion resistance, and FESEM all provided additional evidence in support of these conclusions.
Nursing students' perceived parental child-rearing attitudes and ego identity and their relationship with college adjustment: Research Article
Authors: Choi Hye Seon , Lee Sona , Seo Eunju
Published: July 2023

Background: This exploratory investigation aimed to determine whether nursing students' perceived parental child-rearing attitude and ego identity were associated with college adjustment.
Methods:This study surveyed 224 nursing students enrolled in universities located in two regions within South Korea. Collected data were subjected to correlation analysis using SPSS version 26.0 for Windows.
Results:Among the parental child-rearing attitudes, paternal emotional warmth (r =.30, p <.001), maternal emotional warmth (r =.38, p <.001), and ego identity (r = 0.71, p <.001) were positively associated with nursing students' college adjustment, whereas maternal rejection was negatively correlated with ego identity (r = −.28, p <.001) and college adjustment (r = −.15, p =.025).
Conclusions:To improve nursing students' college adjustment, universities should establish programs that promote ego identity, provide education on parental child-rearing attitudes for underclassmen and parents, and improve parent–child relationship.
Optimization of regeneration conditions using response surface methodology for embryogenic cell-derived protoplasts in Angelica gigas Nakai
Authors: Lee Han-Sol , Han Jong-Eun , Bae Eun-Kyung , Jie Eun Yee , Kim Suk-Weon , Kwon Hyuk Joon , Lee Gun-Myung , Lee Hak Sung , Park So-Young
Published: July 2023

Background
To achieve a stable protoplast regeneration system, various factors must be considered in combination. In this study, the culture conditions at each developmental stage of protoplasts isolated from embryogenic calli of Angelica gigas Nakai to their regeneration into plants were optimized using response surface methodology (RSM).
Results
To establish an efficient culture method, the plating efficiencies of liquid, sieve, and thin-alginate-layer (TAL) methods were investigated. The RSM was designed using three independent factors: 2,4-D, kinetin, and phytosulfokine (PSK). Optimized values ​​were predicted in the cell division, multi-cell formation, and somatic embryo (SE) stages to determine which developmental stage is favorable for regeneration. Among the culture methods tested, TAL showed the highest multi-cell formation efficiency. During the optimization of each step from protoplasts to plant regeneration, the concentrations of 2,4-D and kinetin gradually increased throughout the culture process, and a relatively high concentration of 90 nM PSK was required for multi-cell formation. Using RSM, the highest SE development was predicted to occur when 1.5 mg·L− 1 2,4-D, 1.0 mg·L− 1 kinetin, and 0 nM PSK are used, which was approximately 3.64-fold higher than those of the control. In the experiments confirming reproducibility using the conditions identified with RSM, the same trend was observed.
Conclusions
This study indicates that (1) different concentrations of key factors are required for each developmental stage during protoplast culture and that (2) RSM can be used to reliably optimize their required concentrations.
Mathematical Modelling of The Pneumonia Dynamics with a Carrier Among a Children Under Age Five: The Case of Bule Hora Town, Oromia Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Jilo J. , Daba Mitiku , E. Abdulsamad
Published: July 2023

Pneumonia has been a major airborne transmitted disease and continues to pose a major public health problem in both developed and developing countries of the world. In this study, we constructed and analyzed a non-linear deterministic mathematical model in case of Bule Hora town for assessing the community-level impacts of natural immunity, other protection measures and treatment on the transmission dynamics of pneumonia disease in a population of varying size. Our model exhibits two kinds of equilibrium points: pneumonia disease-free equilibrium point, and pneumonia endemic equilibrium point. Thus, for pneumonia infection, the necessity of the pneumonia reproduction number R 0 < 1, although essential, it might not be enough to completely eradicate the pneumonia infection from the considered community. Our examination of sensitivity analysis shows that the pneumonia infection transmission rate plays a crucial role to change the qualitative behavior of dynamics of pneumonia infection. By taking standard data from Bule hora teaching Hospital and published literature, our numerical computations show that the numerical value of pneumonia infection model reproduction number greater than one it implies that the disease spreads throughout the community. Finally, our numerical simulations show that natural immunity and treatment against pneumonia disease have effectively decreasing pneumonia expansion.
Solvothermal synthesis of cobalt PCP pincer complexes from [Co2(CO)8]
Authors: Schratzberger Heiko , Himmelbauer Daniel , Eder Wolfgang , Weiser Michael , Stöger Berthold , Kirchner Karl Anton
Published: July 2023

Treatment of [Co2(CO)8 ] with the ipso-substituted P(C-X)PY ligands (X = Br, Cl; R = iPr, tBu) bearing Y = NH and CH2linkers under solvothermal conditions affords the five-coordinate Co(I) and Co(III) complexes [CoI(PCPY-R)(CO)2] and [CoIII(PCPY-R)X2]. The later are paramagnetic exhibiting a solution magnetic moment in the range of 3.0 to 3.3µB which is consistent with a d6 intermediate spin system corresponding to two unpaired electrons. In the case of P(C-X)PY ligands (X = Br, Cl; R = tBu; Y = NH) the formation of the square planar Co(II) complex [Co(PCPNH-tBu)X] was favored. This complex gives rise to a magnetic moment of 1.8 µB being consistent with a d7 low spin system corresponding to one unpaired electron. All complexes are characterized by means of spectroscopic techniques (NMR, IR), HR-MS. Representative complexes were also characterized by X-ray crystallography.
Data-Driven Decision Support for Post-Hospitalization Diabetes Case Management Referral: Protocol for Predictive Analysis
Authors: Lee Seung-Yup , Hayes Leslie , Ozaydin Bunyamin , Howard Steven , Garretson Alison , Bradley Heather , Land Andrew , DeLaney Erin , Pritchett Amy , Furr Amanda , Allgood Ashleigh , Wyatt Matthew , Hall Allyson , Banaszak-Holl Jane
Published: July 2023

Background
While diabetes cases become more complex with increasing age and comorbidity, social determinants of health (SDoH), including food security, medication availability, and transportation, act as a significant source of disparities in diabetes risk and outcomes. However, with the existing supply-demand mismatch in diabetes case management, current case management referrals are primarily based on the most apparent clinical information. Data-driven decision support that learns from large-scale electronic health records (EHRs) encompassing the SDoH is a promising approach to helping prioritize demand and alleviate disparities through the identification of patients at highest risk.
Methods
This protocol is for a predictive analysis study to develop a proactive risk assessment decision support (PRADS) model incorporating the SDoH data to stratify urgency of needed case management among diabetic patients by identifying patients that are likely to utilize extensive resources including hospitalizations and emergency department (ED) visits. We will collect EHR data spanning from January 2018 to February 2023 from a Level 1 Trauma Center in Southeast (where diabetes and disparities have been prevalent), including demographics, SDoH, comorbidities, laboratory test results, access to care, medications, and the outcome variables (i.e., readmissions and ED visits). The dataset includes 65,821 unique inpatients that account for 132,273 inpatient encounters. 70% of the data observations will be utilized to train a Survival Decision Tree model, and the rest to generate prediction outcomes (probability of readmission or ED visit). The model will be validated in a quantitative manner by evaluating performance evaluation metrics and in a qualitative manner by conducting a three-phase modified Delphi method that involves the case management, clinician, and quality and patient safety teams.
Discussion
Despite the multifaceted disparities among diabetic patients, e.g., comorbidities and social support, the current case management referral process does not involve a comprehensive assessment of patient information. Data-driven decision support that learns from a wide range of SDoH and clinical information can help better identify high-risk patients for effective utilization of the current workforce. The PRADS model may demonstrate the value of SDoH in estimating diabetes risk factors, potential for system implementation, and improvement in utilizing the case management workforce.
Analysing the Segreggation Ratio of Grain Amaranth Cross (Suvarna X Ga2)
Authors: Mishra Madhuchhada , Chatterjee Suchismita , Sagar Preeti , Tiwari Jitendra Kumar
Published: July 2023

Grain Amaranthus is a potential pseudocereal cereal which has the capability to ensure balanced nutrient availability and can cope up with the degrading environment. The present study was conducted to identify the pattern of inheritance of 9 important morphological traits in the F2 segregating population of 2 well known, cultivated varieties of grain amaranth i.e., Suvarna X GA2. The F1 plants were found to be green colour (green leaf and stem) having red leaf margin, red colour, erect, flat inflorescence but with spreading growth habit with late flowering, indicating these characters to be dominant over the other contracting character(s). In F2 we found out that Leaf colour and Flowering time followed Supplementary gene action; Panicle Colour and Inflorescence shape following Polymorphic gene action; Plant growth habit and inflorescence spiney were found to follow Inhibitory genre action and Presence of red leaf margin, Stem colour and inflorescence compactness were found to follow normal Mendelian segregation.
Tax Revenues and Income Inequality in Sub-Saharan Africa: Evidence from a Dynamic Panel Threshold Analysis.
Authors: AZENG Therese Felicitee , HELGATH Bybert MOUDJARE
Published: July 2023

The main goal of this paper is to revisit the relationship between tax revenues and income inequality in 28 Sub-Saharan countries from 2000 to 2015. Applying a dynamic panel threshold model, the results find that that there is a nonlinearity link between both variables and an optimal tax revenue rate affecting income inequalities. More specifically, the optimal tax revenue rate is around 1.051%. Below this threshold, an increase of 1 percent in tax revenue rises income inequality by 0.017% and beyond this threshold, an increase of 1 percent in tax revenue reduces income inequality by 0.026%. by remaining below the optimal threshold, the authorities deprive themselves of a broadening of the tax base, lever in the fight against inequalities and poverty.
Code JEL : C36, E62, 023.
The constant domain of CRTAM is essential for high-affinity interaction with Nectin-like 2
Authors: Barragan-Galvez Juan Carlos , Lopez-Ortega Orestes , Hernandez-Flores Araceli , Rodriguez-Alvarez Adriana A. , Maravillas-Montero Jose Luis , Ortiz-Navarrete Vianney
Published: July 2023

CRTAM (Class-I MHC-restricted T cell-associated molecule) is a member of the Nectin-like family, composed of two extracellular domains, one constant domain (IgC), and another variable domain (IgV), expressed in activated CD8 T cells, epithelial cells, NK cells and in a subpopulation CD4 T cell. CRTAM recognizes the ligand Nectin-like 2 (Necl2) through the variable domain. However, the role of the constant domain during this ligand recognition has yet to be understood. In this study, we show the purification of soluble-folded Ig-domains of CRTAM, and we demonstrated that the constant domain forms a homodimer in solution via hydrophobic interactions. By SRP analysis, we also demonstrate that the full CRTAM binds to Necl2 with a 2.16 nM affinity. Additionally, transfected cells expressing the full length of CRTAM on the surface establish a better interaction with Necl2 than with the CRTAM-IgC domain expressed on the cell surface. In conclusion, the constant domain of CRTAM is essential for high-affinity interaction with Necl-2.
Early postoperative intra-axial dissemination of a pediatric extradural and complicated hydatid cyst
Authors: Borni Mehdi , Souissi Ghassen , Taallah Marouen , Abdelmouleh Souhir , Ayadi Ali , Boudawara Mohamed Zaher
Published: July 2023

Hydatid disease is very common around the Mediterranean basin and endemic in some parts of the world. Cerebral involvement remains rare, represents only about 2% of all hydatid localizations and mainly affects the pediatric population. Extradural hydatid cyst is very rare or even exceptional when it is associated with or followed by intracerebral disseminations. Here, the authors report a new exceptional case of an early multiple intra-axial hydatid dissemination in a 5-year-old North African male patient from a rural area who underwent surgery three months ago after a primary osteolytic extradural and complicated hydatid cyst with good clinical and radiological outcomes.
Fatigue behavior of teeth filled with calcium silicate- and epoxy resin-based sealers in bulk or associated with a main core material
Authors: Chiaratti Luiza Colpo , Lena Isabella Marian , Pilecco Rafaela Oliveira , Machry Renan Vaz , Pereira Gabriel Kalil Rocha , DornellesMorgental Renata
Published: July 2023

Objective:
To evaluate the fatigue behavior of teeth filled with a calcium silicate-based sealer (Bio-C Sealer, BC) in comparison to an epoxy resin-based sealer (AH Plus, AH), in bulk or associated with gutta-percha as main core material.
Methods:
Root canals of 72 human maxillary incisors and canines were prepared using nickel-titanium reciprocating instruments and randomly assigned to 2 control groups: C- (without preparation and filling) and C+ (prepared but not filled); and 4 experimental groups: BC-B (BC in bulk); BC-GP (BC + gutta-percha); AP-B (AH in bulk); AP-GP (AH + gutta-percha). The specimens were submitted to a survival analysis after the cyclic fatigue test.
Results:
The experimental groups showed similar fatigue behavior (P> .05), being also similar to C+ (BC-B = BC-GP = AP-B = AP-GP = C+). The C- group presented the best fatigue performance (P<.05), being similar only to the AP-GP group (P>.05). Considering a premature failure rate (~10%), lower performance is observed for experimental groups filled in bulk. Conclusions:
The use of calcium silicate-based sealer is valid, both as bulk or associated with gutta-percha as a main core material, as it resulted on similar mechanical performance to an epoxy resin-based sealer. Despite that, the use of gutta-percha, as a main core material, seems to reduce the risk of premature failures. Clinical relevance: Ah Plus associated with gutta percha as main core material show similar fatigue behavior to sound teeth. Teeth filled in bulk, without gutta-percha as main core, had higher risk of premature failures.
Enhanced nutrient (N&P) removal by partially saturated and hybrid vertical flow constructed wetland from single household greywater
Authors: Punyapwar Swapnil , Mutnuri Srikanth
Published: July 2023

Constructed wetlands (CWs) are a group of novel, natural wastewater treatment technologies which principally house microbes with help of plants and filter media. The denitrification rates in vertical flow constructed wetland (VFCW) are sensitive and in most cases complete nitrogen removal does not occur. In current study, two systems were evaluated, 1st was partial saturated up-flow VFCW and the 2nd was hybrid pilot scale setup of VFCW and floating treatment wetland (FTW) in series. Both these systems were implemented at single household scale for treatment of greywater. VFCW filter media were river sand and gravels with Canna indica as macrophyte. FTW rafts were made of thermocol sheets covering 100% of water surface in tank. System sampling was done for every 3rd day and pollutant removal performance was measured in terms of COD, total nitrogen (TN), ammoniacal nitrogen (NH4-N), nitrate (NO3-N), nitrite (NO2-N), and o-phosphate (PO4-P) concentrations of influent and effluent. Saturated VFCW system removed 89.09%, 78.7%, 67%, 68.74%, 94.6%, and 86.01% whereas hybrid wetland removed 91.5%, 92.32%, 82.2%, 71.13%, 97.25%, and 89.37% of COD, TN, NH4-N, NO3-N, NO2-N and PO4-P respectively. After stable pollutant removal trend, FTW macrophyte roots were harvested and subjected to metagenomic analysis on Illumina platform to identify microbial diversity and functional annotation related to nitrogen and phosphate removal. Microbial diversity showed Pseudomonas, Bacteroides, Clostridium, Azoarcus, Achromobacter as dominant top 5 genus. This group of genus highlights denitrifying microbial abundance greater than VFCW metagenomes microbial population. The presence of significantly higher denitrifying microbes in FTW confirms higher denitrification rate than VFCW, resulting in overall more Nitrogen removal by the system.
Medial-type persistent trigeminal artery and ipsilateral posterior communicating artery supplying bilateral posterior cerebral arteries associated with an aberrant right subclavian artery and bicarotid trunk
Authors: Uchino Akira , Kondo Ryushi
Published: July 2023

Purpose
To describe a case of a medial-type persistent trigeminal artery (PTA) associated with multiple arterial variations.
Methods
A 34-year-old woman with multiple sclerosis underwent cranial magnetic resonance (MR) angiography from the aortic arch to the neck region and intracranial region for the evaluation of an unruptured cerebral aneurysm that was previously detected on MR imaging. The MR machine was a 3-T scanner.
Results
There was an aberrant right subclavian artery and bicarotid trunk, medial-type left PTA and ipsilateral posterior communicating artery (PCoA) supplying bilateral posterior cerebral arteries (PCAs). The unruptured aneurysm was located at the paraclinoid segment of the left internal carotid artery and was treated successfully by coil embolization via a transfemoral approach.
Conclusion
Only 10% of PTAs are classified as the medial type. The association with hyperplastic ipsilateral PCoA, which supplies the bilateral PCAs, has not been previously reported. Aberrant right subclavian arteries are common and are frequently associated with a bicarotid trunk. Before catheterization of the cerebral arteries, the aortic arch and its branches must be evaluated by MR angiography or computed tomography angiography to prevent catheterization failure via the right transradial approach.
An excellent super-polarization-independent optical directional coupler based on dual-core photonic crystal fiber with a bandwidth of 390nm
Authors: Jiang Meng-Lin , Zou Hui , Xu Jian-Jie , Chen Yu
Published: July 2023

In this work, a novel structure of dual-core photonic crystal fiber (PCF) is proposed to make the super-polarization-independent optical directional coupler, which takes not only the feasibility of optical fiber manufacturing process but also the needs of practical application into account. The introduced fluorine-doped elliptical cores with a rotation angle of 45-degree successfully realize the super-polarization-independent coupling performance of less than 0.004% in the difference between coupling ratios of two polarized lights within the effective wavelength range of 1230-1620nm. In other words, it effectively offsets the damage caused by the introduction of two cores to the structural symmetry, thereby significantly reducing the difference in the coupling ratio between the two polarization states and excellently eliminating the polarization-dependence of the dual-core PCF. In addition, compared with traditional elliptical air holes, the solid elliptical structure is easier to get under control, which significantly reduces the difficulty of manufacturing. Consequently, the novel structure is expected to be applied in the optical communication network nowadays.
Are Blockchain-based assets connected to classical markets? Volatility spillover and wavelet analysis
Authors: Karoui Ali Trabelsi , Mahjoub Rabeb , Kammoun Aida
Published: July 2023

Following the rise of new blockchain-based assets like NFTs and DeFi tokens, alongside the high demand for cryptocurrencies, investors are altering the construction of their portfolios by not just relying on classical strategies in FOREX, stocks, and commodities markets. To highlight the overall risk transmission between the different segment of the markets, we study the connectedness using VAR and TVP-VAR models at various frequencies. We compare the t-variant components across different scales. This approach allows for the investigation of time-frequency dynamics and the identification of patterns and relationships between these assets. The study will utilize historical data and apply wavelet coherence techniques to analyze the co-movements and dependencies at various time scales. The empirical results indicate a strong correlation between DeFi, other cryptocurrencies, and Bitcoin, while NFTs exhibit independence from nearly all segments of the network. The transmission of shocks between markets depends on time and frequency, with most transmission occurring at short-term frequencies. Dynamic transmission is influenced by crises such as the COVID-19 outbreak. Our findings contribute to the literature on blockchain-based assets by examining the transmission of shocks with established markets. These results are significant for investors in managing their portfolios and making informed decisions by considering their holdings in the classical market.
JEL Classification: G11; G14 ; C5 ; C58 ; L86 ; G19
Environmental protection experience of secretaries and COD regulation: Firm-level evidence from China
Authors: Yang Zhenbing , Shao Shuai , Xu Le , Yang Lili
Published: July 2023

Using the firm-level data of the Chinese industrial sector from 1998 to 2010, this study investigates the impact of the previous environmental protection experience of prefecture-level Communist Party secretaries on the COD regulation within the secretaries’ respective jurisdictions. The study finds that the secretaries’ previous environmental protection experience has reduced the COD discharge intensity. The duration of the previous environmental protection experience is selected as an instrumental variable and the endogeneity is further addressed; the research conclusion remains unchanged. However, this negative impact only lasts for two years and presents an unclear long-term impact. The negative effect on COD discharge intensity caused by the previous environmental protection experience is affected by the mandatory regulation pressure from the central government and the overall polluting density of the sub-sectors. Secretaries with previous environmental protection experience do not reduce the COD discharge intensity by using the punishment mechanism of increasing sewage charges. The secretaries, instead, encourage enterprises to use clean production technology, save water resources, and reduce the produced COD level. Also, the secretaries place an emphasis on the treatment of wastewater pollutants, thus reducing the COD discharge intensity. The conclusions of this study can provide decision-making reference for the selection and training of local officials, with the goal of environmental regulation.
The Use of Puzzle Technique as an Active Learning Method in Psychiatric Semiology Teaching: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Yalcinturk Aydan Akkurt , Babaoglu Elcin , Sipahi Asli Zeynep , Güres Emel Erdeniz , Dogan Selma
Published: July 2023

The aim of the study is to examine the effect of using puzzle technique in teaching psychiatric semiology. The sample of the study consisted of 90 students studying in the 4th year of the Nursing Department of a foundation university in Turkey and taking a psychiatric nursing course. Students were randomly assigned to intervention (n=45) and control groups (n=45). “Information Form on Psychiatric Semiology” was applied to both groups in the pre-test. A total of 6 puzzle applications were made to the students in the intervention group. Concepts related to symptoms including mental state and psychopathology are included in the puzzle content. The control group only attended the theoretical course; did not participate in the puzzle application. At the end of 6 weeks, the same information form was applied to both groups again. After the theoretical lessons and puzzle applications, the mean score of the students in the intervention group (81.95±7.69) was found to be significantly higher than the students in the control group (77.53±7.41) (p<0.05). The difference between the posttest and pretest mean scores was 24.17±10.51 in the intervention group; It was determined that it was 12.26±9.10 in the control group and the difference between pretest and posttest mean scores was statistically significant (p<0.05). Since it is seen that the use of puzzle technique is effective in teaching psychiatric semiology, it is recommended to integrate this method into traditional education methods.
Dorsal flexion maneuver of the phalanx of the first metatarsophalagic joint with the use of running socks
Authors: Carrión Álvaro Gómez , Medina José Manuel Reguera , Andueza Ignacio Ayerra , Jiménez Manuel Coheña , Cortés Juan Francisco Morán , Gómez Rubén Sánchez
Published: July 2023

The movement of the dorsal flexion of the first metatarsophalagic joint (MTPJ) is necessary for a correct gait. Its restriction generates an alteration in the establishment of the windlass mechanism, the Jack´s test allows to assess if there is alteration of movement. The use of compressive running socks is commonly used in the population, but we do not know how these socks influence the mechanism of windlass.Objectives: the aim of this study is to measure the amount of force needed to perform the dorsal flexion of the first MTPJ with the use of special compressive running socks.Methods: The sample size of this research was 30 subjects. Jack's test was measured with a new device, consisting of an algometer and a lever system. The necessary force was calculated with the use of two types of compressive running socks.Results: There were statistically significant differences with the use of special compressive running socks with orthopedic corrections during the Jack´s test measured with the new device(13.33N ±3.54, p<0.001).Conclusions: The use of special compressive running socks with orthopedic corrections decreases the force needed measured in Newtons to perform the dorsal flexion of the first MTPJ during the Jack´s test. The new device for measuring dorsal flexion of the first MTPJ is a valid and reliability tool.