bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extra-anatomical left common carotid and subclavian artery bypass followed by aortic arch replacement with frozen elephant trunk
Authors: Suzuki Ryo , Akita Masafumi , Miyazaki Suguru , Shimano Ryo
Published: October 2023

Background

Total arch replacement (TAR) using a frozen elephant trunk (FET) allows for simultaneous treatment of the aortic arch and descending aortic pathology via median sternotomy. In addition, an extra-anatomical bypass performed between the left common carotid artery (CCA) and subclavian artery (SCA) prior to TAR allowed further proximalisation of the FET prosthesis, facilitated distal anastomosis of the TAR and spared the demanding left subclavian artery (LSA) anastomosis in the deep thorax. We investigated the efficacy of this debranching-first technique, followed by TAR using a frozen elephant trunk, as a two-stage operation for extensive thoracic aortic aneurysms in high-risk patients.

Methods

Forty-nine consecutive patients with diffuse degenerative aneurysms from the aortic arch to the descending aorta or chronic aortic dissection who underwent left common carotid to subclavian artery bypass followed by TAR using a frozen elephant trunk and subsequent thoracic endovascular aortic repair between 2016 and 2021 were analysed. The baseline characteristics and clinical outcomes were assessed. The estimated overall survival, 5-year aortic event-free survival, and aortic reintervention rates were analysed.

Results

The average European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation (EuroSCORE II) was 4.7 ± 2.5. The operative mortality rate was 4.1%, with no paraplegia events. The estimated 5-year overall survival, cumulative aortic-related mortality rates were 76.8% and 2%, respectively. The estimated 5-year overall cumulative aortic reintervention rate, including the intended intervention, was 31.3%. The estimated 5-year cumulative rate of non-intended reintervention was 4.5%.

Conclusions

The assessed technique enables a less technically demanding surgery with reasonable outcomes. The estimated 5-year aortic event-free survival and reintervention rates were acceptable, suggesting that multiple stages of alternative open and endovascular interventions, such as this technique, may reduce the morbidity and mortality rates of high-risk patients with diffuse thoracic aortic aneurysm.

UMIN-CTR (University hospital Medical Information Network-Clinical Trial Registry)

https://center6.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr_e/index.cgi

Clinical registration number: UMIN000051531
Risk of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 3 or more diagnoses for human papillomavirus16/18-positive women by cytology and co-infection status
Authors: Ao Mengyin , Yao Xiaoxi , Zheng Danxi , Gu Xuesai , Xi Mingrong
Published: October 2023

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV) 16 and 18 cause approximately 70% of cervical cancer cases. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether co-infected with other HPV genotypes will affect the risk of cervical carcinogenesis in HPV16/18 positive-women.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, cervical cytology and histological classifications from women who tested positive for HPV 16/18 and underwent colposcopy within 6 months, between January 2010 and May 2021 were obtained from West China Second University Hospital of Sichuan University.

Main outcomes and measures

Immediate risk of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 3 or more diagnoses (CIN 3+).

Results

A total of 7940 HPV 16/18-positive women were included, with a median age of 40 years (range 25–84 years). Among them, 2710 (34.1%) were infected with multiple genotypes, 6533 (82.28%) had cytology results and 2116 (26.65%) women were diagnosed with CIN 3+. The effects of HPV 16/18 coinfecting with other HPV on CIN3 + risk varied with specific HPV genotypes. After adjusting for cofactors, compared to single HPV 16 infection, the CIN 3 + risk was significantly reduced in women infected with HPV 16 + other high-risk HPV (hrHPV) [odds ratio (OR) = 0.621, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.511–0.755], HPV 16 + low-risk HPV (lrHPV) (OR = 0.620, 95% CI 0.436–0.883), and HPV 16 + lrHPVs + other hrHPVs (OR = 0.248, 95% CI 0.157–0.391). The prevalence of CIN 3 + was associated with increased severity of cytologic abnormalities in HPV 16/18-positive women and peaked at cytology HSIL + (89.9% and 82.3%), which held a substantially greater risk than that of NILM (OR = 65.466, 95% CI 50.234–85.316).

Conclusions

In this cross-sectional study of HPV 16/18-positive women, the effects of multiple infection were likely complicated and varied with specific HPV genotypes. The coinfection of HPV 16 and other genotypes of HPV except HPV 18 was associated with decreased CIN 3 + risk. Cytologic results were informative when HPV 16/18 was positive. It might be reasonable to recommend expedited treatment for patients with HPV 16/18 positive and HSIL + cytology in the Chinese population.
N6-methyladenosine methyltransferase KIAA1429 promoted ovarian cancer aerobic glycolysis and progression through enhancing ENO1 expression
Authors: Gan Lijuan , Zhao Shengchao , Gao Yang , Qi Yuwen , Su Min , Wang Anjin , Cai Hongbing
Published: October 2023

Background

Despite improvements in prognosis due to advances in treatment, including surgery, genetic screening, and molecular targeted therapy, the outcomes of ovarian cancer (OC) remain unsatisfactory. Internal mRNA modifications are extremely common in eukaryotes; N6-methyladenosine (m6A) alteration has significant effects on mRNA stability and translation, and it is involved in the pathophysiology of numerous diseases related to cancer.

Methods

Bioinformatics analysis, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting were used to detect the expression of vir-like m6A methyltransferase associated (KIAA1429) in OC tissues and cell lines. Several different cell models and animal models were established to determine the role of KIAA1429 in glucose metabolism reprogramming and the underlying molecular mechanism of OC. The mechanism of oncology functional assays, co-immunoprecipitation and a luciferase reporter gene was employed to ascertain how KIAA1429 interacts with important molecular targets.

Results

We reported that KIAA1429 was overexpressed in OC and predicted a poor prognosis. Functionally, KIAA1429 promoted cell growth by inducing proliferation and inhibiting necrosis. Mechanistically, KIAA1429 promoted tumor progression and glycolysis via stabilizing ENO1 mRNA in a way dependent on m6A. Furthermore, we investigated that the SPI1 transcription factor is the main transcription factor that regulates KIAA1429 transcription in OC.

Conclusion

Our findings revealed that SPI1/KIAA1429/ENO1 signaling is a novel molecular axis and raises awareness of the vital functions of the changes in KIAA1429 and m6A changes in the metabolic reprogramming of OC. These results identified new potential biomarkers and treatment targets for OC.
What is the role of Swiss domestic cats in environmental contamination with Echinococcus multilocularis eggs?
Authors: Furtado Jost Rebecca , Müller Norbert , Marreros Nelson , Moré Gastón , Antoine Loic , Basso Walter , Frey Caroline F.
Published: October 2023

Background

The role of the domestic cat as definitive host forEchinococcus multilocularisand thus in environmental contamination with eggs has not yet been entirely resolved. This study aimed to assess the prevalence ofE. multilocularisand other gastrointestinal parasites in Swiss domestic cats and to compare the diagnostic sensitivity of different methods for the detection of intestinal taeniid infection.

Methods

Faecal samples from 146 cats were included in the study. Faecal samples only were available from 55 cats; for the other 91 cats, necropsy was performed in addition to faecal sample testing. All (n = 146) faecal samples were analysed by a combined sedimentation/flotation technique (44% ZnCl2) and by the sodium acetate-acetic acid-formalin (SAF) sedimentation technique; when sufficient material was available (n= 121 samples) the Baermann-Wetzel technique was also used. Additionally, all samples were analysed by two coproantigen (copro)-quantitative PCRs (qPCR): (i) a multiplex qPCR able to detect and differentiate betweenE. multilocularis,Echinococcus granulosussensu lato andTaeniaspp./other cestodes (CEST-qPCR) and (ii) anE. multilocularis-specific qPCR (EM-qPCR). Finally, the intestines were examined macroscopically and microscopically for parasite stages at necropsy (n = 91) and using an intestinal scraping technique (IST) (n = 64).

Results

Of the 146 cats examined, 24 (17.1%) were infected by intestinal parasites, namelyHydatigera(syn.Taenia)taeniaeformis(8.9%),Toxocara cati(6.1%),Capillariasp. (3.4%), hookworms (3.4%),Mesocestoides litteratus(1.4%),Giardiasp. (1.4%),Cystoisospora rivolta(1.4%),Cystoisospora felis(0.7%),Toxoplasma gondii(0.7%),Hammondia hammondi(0.7%) andStrongyloidessp. (0.7%). Necropsy and the IST revealed adultH. taeniaeformisin 12 animals, of which eight faecal samples were positive by the CEST-qPCR (sensitivity = 67%) and six samples by the sedimentation/flotation technique (sensitivity = 50%). NoE. multilocularisinfection was detected in the sampled cats. Using Bayesian latent class analysis, the mean posterior prevalence probability was 0.0% (95% confidence interval 0–0.83%) forE. multilocularis.

Conclusions

There was no evidence ofE. multilocularisinfection among the 146 cats examined, suggesting that the prevalence of this parasite is low (< 1%) in the Swiss domestic cat population. Nonetheless, some of the sampled cats were infected by parasites that have rodents as intermediate hosts, demonstrating successful predation by these cats, and some were infected with zoonotic parasites. Cats therefore should not be disregarded as potential hosts forE. multilocularisand other zoonotic parasites.

Graphical Abstract
Relative abundance data can misrepresent heritability of the microbiome
Authors: Bruijning Marjolein , Ayroles Julien F. , Henry Lucas P. , Koskella Britt , Meyer Kyle M. , Metcalf C. Jessica E.
Published: October 2023

Background

Host genetics can shape microbiome composition, but to what extent it does, remains unclear. Like any other complex trait, this important question can be addressed by estimating the heritability (h2) of the microbiome—the proportion of variance in the abundance in each taxon that is attributable to host genetic variation. However, unlike most complex traits, microbiome heritability is typically based on relative abundance data, where taxon-specific abundances are expressed as the proportion of the total microbial abundance in a sample.

Results

We derived an analytical approximation for the heritability that one obtains when using such relative, and not absolute, abundances, based on an underlying quantitative genetic model for absolute abundances. Based on this, we uncovered three problems that can arise when using relative abundances to estimate microbiome heritability: (1) the interdependency between taxa can lead to imprecise heritability estimates. This problem is most apparent for dominant taxa. (2) Large sample size leads to high false discovery rates. With enough statistical power, the result is a strong overestimation of the number of heritable taxa in a community. (3) Microbial co-abundances lead to biased heritability estimates.

Conclusions

We discuss several potential solutions for advancing the field, focusing on technical and statistical developments, and conclude that caution must be taken when interpreting heritability estimates and comparing values across studies.
What if parental love is conditional …? Children’s self-esteem profiles and their relationship with parental conditional regard and self-kindness
Authors: Brueckmann Malin , Teuber Ziwen , Hollmann Jelena , Wild Elke
Published: October 2023

Background

Numerous studies have demonstrated that low, unstable, or contingent self-esteem negatively affects youth development and is linked to adolescent psychopathology. However, most previous studies have applied variable-oriented approaches, and less is known about the natural combination of self-esteem facets in school-aged adolescents, how parental conditional regard affects self-esteem profiles, and how these profiles relate to self-kindness, self-judgement, and life satisfaction.

Methods

By employing a longitudinal person-oriented approach (i.e., latent profile analysis and latent transition analysis) on two-wave longitudinal data from 587 German secondary school students (52.3% female, Mage=13.52 years), this study aims to (1) identify adolescents’ self-esteem profiles based on the level, stability, and contingency of self-esteem; (2) examine the impact of parental conditional regard on the self-esteem profiles explained using self-determination theory; and (3) examine these profiles’ relationship with self-kindness, self-judgement, and life satisfaction.

Results

Four self-esteem profiles were derived: optimal-secure (~ 8%), good (~ 18%), average (~ 36%), and low-insecure (~ 38%). The results reveal a concerningly high proportion as well as a high stability of low-insecure self-esteem (~ 98%) and indicate the strong negative influence of parental conditional regard on the development of optimal-secure self-esteem. Furthermore, the results demonstrate strong correlations between optimal-secure self-esteem, highly developed self-kindness, and high life satisfaction.

Conclusions

Using a longitudinal person-oriented approach, it was possible to identify a group with highly vulnerable self-esteem, characterised by particularly low self-kindness, strong self-judgment, and lower life satisfaction. The findings of this study support the need for prevention and intervention targeting adolescents with low-insecure self-esteem.
A review study on discourse-analytical approaches to language testing policy in the South Korean context
Authors: Shin Dongil , Park Soohyeon , Cho Eunhae
Published: October 2023

Research on language planning and policy (LPP) has transcended beyond enacting government-initiated language policy and progressed towards uncovering inherent power relations. The discourse-analytical approach (DA) effectively captures the relation between texts and other elements of social practices. Therefore, this approach has been adopted to analyze the meaning-making process in ideologies, practices, and different social contexts. The current study expands on previous research and argues that language testing policies (LTP) be explored using the DA because the former is also produced within the discursive practices of intertextual and interdiscursive links among texts (e.g., policy documents and media texts) and social structures. Three empirical contexts are analyzed to demonstrate the need for introducing tests: (1) introducing the National English Ability Test to replace the preexisting English subject test of the College Scholastic Test in Korea to measure speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills; (2) adopting cut-off scores for graduation based on the Test of English for International Communication; and (3) implementing the Test of Proficiency in Korean scores for screening and regulating the flow of immigrants. The results facilitate an understanding of the variability in LTP contexts, thereby contributing to democratic pluralism in the LPP field.
Course and predictors of social security disability insurance in patients with borderline personality disorder over 24 years of prospective follow-up
Authors: Kramer Ueli , Temes Christina M. , Frankenburg Frances R. , Glass Isabel V. , Zanarini Mary C.
Published: October 2023

Background

The utilization of Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is frequent in patients with borderline personality disorder (BPD) and may represent a meaningful marker of a patient’s symptom severity, poor psychosocial functioning, and/or inner suffering. Over 24 years of prospective follow-up, the present study aims to describe the course of SSDI and assess the role of clinically relevant predictors.

Methods

A total of 290 inpatients with BPD were interviewed at baseline and 12 consecutive follow-up waves, each separated by two years, after index hospitalization. Included were also 72 inpatients with other personality disorders. Surviving patients were reinterviewed. A series of interviews and self-report measures were used to assess psychosocial functioning and treatment history, axis I and II disorders, and childhood/adult adversity.

Results

Results show that rates of SSDI utilization were relatively stable over 24 years of follow-up (on average, 47.2% of the patients with BPD were on SSDI). Patients with BPD were three times more likely to be on SSDI than patients with other PDs. Patients with BPD displayed flexibility in their usage of SSDI. By 24 years, 46% of patients remitted, out of which 85% experienced recurrence and 50% of the patients had a new onset over time. In multivariate analyses, four variables were found to predict SSDI status in patients with BPD over time. These variables were: age 26 or older, lower IQ, severity of non-sexual childhood abuse, and presence of PTSD.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that a combination of a demographic factors, childhood adversity, natural endowment, and comorbidity are significant predictors of receiving SSDI over time. On a group level, there is a relative stability of SSDI usage over time, but on the individual level, the present study found a high fluctuation in receiving SSDI over 24 months of prospective follow-up.
Effective contribution ratio of the molar during sequential distalization using clear aligners and micro-implant anchorage: a finite element study
Authors: Liu Xulin , Wu Junjie , Cheng Yuxun , Gao Jie , Wen Yi , Zhang Yubohan , Luo Houzhuo , Jin Zuolin , Ma Yanning
Published: October 2023

Introduction

This study aims to investigate the biomechanical effects of anchorage reinforcement using clear aligners (CAs) with microimplants during molar distalization. And also explores potential clinical strategies for enhancing anchorage in the sequential distalization process.

Methods

Finite element models were established to simulate the CAs, microimplants, upper dentition, periodontal ligament (PDL), and alveolar bone. In group set I, the 2nd molars underwent a distal movement of 0.25 mm in group set II, the 1st molars were distalized by 0.25 mm after the 2nd molars had been placed to a target position. Each group set consisted of three models: Model A served as the control model, Model B simulated the use of microimplants attached to the aligner through precision cuts, and Model C simulated the use of microimplants attached by buttons. Models B and C were subjected to a series of traction forces. We analyzed the effective contribution ratios of molar distalization, PDL hydrostatic stress, and von Mises stress of alveolar bone.

Results

The distalization of the 2nd molars accounted for a mere 52.86% of the 0.25-mm step distance without any reinforcement of anchorage. The remaining percentage was attributed to the mesial movement of anchorage teeth and other undesired movements. Models B and C exhibited an increased effective contribution ratio of molar distalization and a decreased loss of anchorage. However, there was a slight increase in the undesired movement of molar tipping and rotation. In group set II, the 2nd molar displayed a phenomenon of mesial relapse due to the reciprocal force produced by the 1st molar distalization. Moreover, the efficacy of molar distalization in terms of contribution ratio was found to be positively correlated with the magnitude of force applied. In cases where stronger anchorage reinforcement is required, precision cuts is the superior method.

Conclusions

The utilization of microimplants in conjunction with CAs can facilitate the effective contribution ratio of molar distalization. However, it is important to note that complete elimination of anchorage loss is not achievable. To mitigate undesired movement, careful planning of anchorage preparation and overcorrection is recommended.
Writing metacognitive strategy-based instruction through flipped classroom: an investigation of writing performance, anxiety, and self-efficacy
Authors: Khosravi Rahele , Dastgoshadeh Adel , Jalilzadeh Kaveh
Published: October 2023

This study aimed at exploring the effect of implementing writing metacognitive strategies via flipped classrooms on the Iranian EFL learners' achievement, anxiety, and self-efficacy in writing. The study involved 45 intermediate learners of both genders, selected using a random convenience sampling method. The participants' English proficiency was measured by the Preliminary English Test, and they were placed in two groups: experimental group (23 learners) and control group (22 learners). In the former group, the students were exposed to 5 distinct types of metacognitive strategies over the course of 10 flipped classroom sessions, while the latter group received writing metacognitive strategy-based instruction in a traditional classroom setting. The data collection process involved administering the Second Language Writing Self-Efficacy Scale, two intermediate writing tasks, and the Second Language Writing Anxiety Scale. The collected data were analyzed using a one-way ANCOVA. The findings evidenced considerable enhancement in the writing performance of the students who underwent instruction through flipped classrooms in comparison to those in the traditional classroom refsetting. Furthermore, the results demonstrated that the utilization of writing metacognitive strategies in flipped classrooms resulted in a substantial rise in students' writing self-efficacy, while simultaneously leading to a decrease in their writing anxiety.
Recent progress in research on source processes of great earthquakes using tsunami data
Authors: Tanioka Yuichiro , Yamanaka Yusuke
Published: October 2023

This paper provides an overview of inverse studies that estimate earthquake source processes using tsunami-related data. Methods and techniques developed with those data associated with the 2004 Sumatra and 2011 Tohoku-oki earthquakes were reviewed. These events significantly impacted subsequent studies that focused on great historical earthquakes. Thus, recent advancements from studies on great historical earthquakes (M > 8) using old tsunami data, including documents and non-digital tsunami waveforms, have been reviewed. Another key earthquake was the 1700 Cascadia earthquake, and its source process was revealed using geological tsunami deposit data, which have led to a recent surge in prehistorical earthquake studies using tsunami deposit data. Considering this, the advancements in prehistorical earthquake studies have been reviewed. Finally, expected advancements in earthquake source process studies using tsunami-related data in the near future have been discussed.
A pilot randomised controlled parallel arm trial evaluating treatment satisfaction with the Omnipod DASH® Insulin Management System compared with usual care in adults with type 1 diabetes in Australia: rationale, study design and methodologies
Authors: Kong Yee Wen , Yuan Cheng Yi , Kiburg Katerina , Brown Katrin , Trawley Steven , Partovi Andi , Roem Kerryn , Harrison Natalie , Fourlanos Spiros , Ekinci Elif I. , O’Neal David N.
Published: October 2023

Background

Insulin pump therapy (IPT) improves glucose control in people with type 1 diabetes (T1D) compared with multiple daily injections (MDI). However, their size, the tethered insulin infusion set, intrusiveness when operating the device and the need to disconnect during showering limit their acceptance to many who may benefit. The Omnipod DASH® Insulin Management System is a small waterproof tubeless device which is wirelessly controlled by a handheld device which may be an acceptable alternative. However, there are no randomised controlled trials focusing on the impact on user perceptions of tubeless insulin pump therapy. This pilot study aims to assess study feasibility and acceptability of patch pump therapy compared with usual care in adults with T1D in Australia to inform power calculations and progression to a large-scale multi-site randomised controlled study.

Methods

A pilot multi-site parallel randomised controlled study will be conducted in sixty-four adults with T1D who are managed on MDI or IPT and self-monitoring with finger-stick blood glucose from four specialist diabetes centres in Victoria, Australia. Following carbohydrate counting education, participants will be randomised to use Omnipod DASH® System (Omnipod group) or continue usual care (usual care group) for 12 weeks, followed by a 12-week extension phase where all participants will use Omnipod DASH® System. The primary outcome measure is feasibility determined by study completion rates with a threshold of 0.80. Acceptability of the intervention (Omnipod DASH® System) will be assessed by the difference in Diabetes Technology Questionnaire ‘current’ (DTQ-current) score at 12 weeks post-randomisation compared to baseline. Secondary outcomes will include other measures of user acceptance, process outcomes, resource outcomes, participant-centred outcomes, healthcare professional perceptions and glycaemic outcomes.

Discussion

This pilot study will provide insights regarding the feasibility of the study design and the first data regarding user acceptance of insulin patch pump technology in Australian T1D adults. We anticipate that this study will provide information informing the design of a larger study evaluating the impact of patch pumps on subjective outcomes that are of significance to the person living with T1D.

Trial registration

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (https://anzctr.org.au/) ACTRN12621001195842 (8th September 2021). Please refer to Additional file 1: Appendix 1 for full details.
Generic attacks on small-state stream cipher constructions in the multi-user setting
Authors: Huang Jianfu , Luo Ye , Fu Qinggan , Chen Yincen , Wang Chao , Song Ling
Published: October 2023

Small-state stream ciphers (SSCs), which violate the principle that the state size should exceed the key size by a factor of two, still demonstrate robust security properties while maintaining a lightweight design. These ciphers can be classified into several constructions and their basic security requirement is to resist generic attacks, i.e., the time–memory–data tradeoff (TMDTO) attack. In this paper, we investigate the security of small-state constructions in the multi-user setting. Based on it, the TMDTO distinguishing attack and the TMDTO key recovery attack are developed for such a setting. It is shown that SSCs which continuously use the key can not resist the TMDTO distinguishing attack. Moreover, SSCs based on the continuous-IV-key-use construction cannot withstand the TMDTO key recovery attack when the key length is shorter than the IV length, no matter whether the keystream length is limited or not. Finally, we apply these two generic attacks to TinyJAMBU and DRACO in the multi-user setting. The TMDTO distinguishing attack on TinyJAMBU with a 128-bit key can be mounted with time, memory, and data complexities of $$2^{64}$$

2
64

, $$2^{48}$$

2
48

, and $$2^{32}$$

2
32

, respectively. This attack is comparable with a recent work on ToSC 2022, where partial key bits of TinyJAMBU are recovered with more than $$2^{50}$$

2
50

users (or keys). As DRACO’s IV length is smaller than its key length, it is vulnerable to the TMDTO key recovery attack. The resulting attack has a time and memory complexity of both $$2^{112}$$

2
112

, which means DRACO does not provide 128-bit security in the multi-user setting.
Performance analysis of frequency-mixed PPP-RTK using low-cost GNSS chipset with different antenna configurations
Authors: Li Xingxing , Gou Hailong , Li Xin , Shen Zhiheng , Lyu Hongbo , Zhou Yuxuan , Wang Hao , Zhang Qian
Published: October 2023

Low-cost Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) devices offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional GNSS systems, making GNSS technology accessible to a wider range of applications. Nevertheless, low-cost GNSS devices often face the challenges in effectively capturing and tracking satellite signals, which leads to losing the observations at certain frequencies. Moreover, the observation peculiarities of low-cost devices are in contradistinction to those of traditional geodetic GNSS receivers. In this contribution, a low-cost PPP-RTK model that considers the unique characteristics of different types of measurements is developed and its performance is fully evaluated with u-blox F9P receivers equipped with three distinctive antenna configurations: vertical dipole, microstrip patch, and helix antennas. Several static and kinematic experiments in different scenarios are conducted to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. The results indicate that the mixed-frequency PPP-RTK model outperforms the traditional dual-frequency one with higher positioning accuracy and fixing percentage. Among the three low-cost antennas tested, the vertical dipole antenna demonstrates the best performance under static conditions and shows a comparable performance as geodetic antennas with a positioning accuracy of 0.02 m, 0.01 m and 0.07 m in the east, north, and up components, respectively. Under low-speed kinematic scenarios, the helix antenna outperforms the other two with a positioning accuracy of (0.07 m, 0.07 m, 0.34 m). Furthermore, the helix antenna is also proved to be the best choice for vehicle navigation with an ambiguity fixing rate of over 95% and a positioning accuracy of (0.13 m, 0.14 m, 0.36 m).
Cognitive impairment in a sample of adult patients with multiple sclerosis: an Egyptian study
Authors: Elshehawy Sara Elbasuony , Ibrahim Ibtihal M. A. , Abdel-Naby Ayman Mohamed , Khater Mohamed El-Husseini
Published: October 2023

Background

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic neuro-inflammatory disease of the brain and central nervous system. We aimed at assessing the cognitive functions present in adult patients with multiple sclerosis in remission phase of the disease comparing them to healthy control group.

Results

This is a cross sectional study using Penn Computerized Neurocognitive Battery (CNB) to measure performance accuracy and speed on specific neurobehavioral domains comparing MS group to healthy group. The MS group showed lower statistically significant difference in the accuracy of spatial memory, the motor speed, Non-verbal reasoning, Spatial orientation, social cognition, and working memory. Also, MS group showed statistically significant longer reaction time in facial memory, attention, spatial orientation, and non-verbal reasoning.

Conclusions

Attention, spatial orientation, non- verbal reasoning, Facial memory, working memory, social cognition and spatial memory were affected in patients with MS during their remission phase. cognitive evaluation should constitute a major part of the clinical examination in MS, especially when impairment seems likely.
Coexistence of mutations of Gilbert’s syndrome and Crigler-Najjar syndrome in an infant with unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia—a case report
Authors: Rangan Ramya Srinivasa , Shah Shagun , Deshmukh C. T.
Published: October 2023

Background

Jaundice in the newborn period is a very common entity; rare inherited causes are often forgotten. Persistent unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia in the intermediate levels with non-hemolytic features must prompt the necessity for evaluating for genetic defects in bilirubin metabolism.

Case presentation

Three-and-a-half-month-old first-born girl of consanguineous marriage presented with jaundice from day 5 of life. Dark yellow color urine or pale stools were not present. Antenatal and birth history was normal. She had mild pallor and icterus and no hepatosplenomegaly. Total serum bilirubin was 8.2 mg/dl, and direct was 0.4 mg/dl. Workup for hemolytic anemia, thyroid function test, and sonography of abdomen was normal. Syrup phenobarbitone was started, and bilirubin levels after dropped to 2 mg/dl. Crigler-Najjar type II syndrome (CN II) or Gilbert’s syndrome (GS) was suspected. Next-generation sequencing for UGT1A1 gene mutation showed homozygous missense mutation consistent with CN II and 7 TA repeats in the promoter region consistent with GS. Bilirubin levels gradually fell after starting oral phenobarbitone syrup, and at 5 years of age, a trial of withholding phenobarbitone was given, and bilirubin levels remained lower, and she is asked to follow-up with bilirubin levels every 15 days to assess the need for reintroducing the therapy. Parents are planning for a second pregnancy, and a preconception genetic counseling has been done.

Conclusion

Genetic confirmation of coexistence of mutations causing GS and CN II have an implication on long-term neurological complications of unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia in stress or crisis situations. Prenatal diagnostic testing must be advised for detecting homozygous UGT1A1 mutations to diagnose CN II and Gilbert mutations for each of the future pregnancies. Considering the side effects of long-term phenobarbitone therapy, the decision can be taken on case-to-case basis of stopping the therapy while monitoring TSB levels.
Health economics: direct cost of osteoporotic hip fracture in Egypt—an analysis for the Egyptian healthcare system by the Egyptian Academy of Bone Health
Authors: El Miedany Yasser , El Gaafary Maha , Gadallah Naglaa , Mahran Safaa , Fathi Nihal , Abu-Zaid Mohammed Hassan , Tabra Samar abd Alhamed , Shalaby Radwa H. , Abdelrafea Belal , Hassan Waleed , Farouk Osama , Nafady Mahmoud , Farghaly Ahmed Mohamed , Ibrahim Shereef Ibrahim Mohamed , Ali Mohamed Abdelfattah , Elmaradny Karim Mohamed , Eskandar Sally Eskandar Saber , Elwakil Walaa
Published: October 2023

Mini abstract

This work studies the direct cost of hip fractures in Egypt. The direct cost was calculated based on the incidence of hip fracture in Egypt retrieved from the national database. The result of this work raises red flags to the policy makers in Egypt that such fragility fractures are preventable, should appropriate approaches be implemented.

Background

This study provides an analysis for the healthcare system in Egypt. It was carried out to assess the direct annual cost incurred to the Egyptian healthcare system in 2023 as a result of fragility hip fractures in older adult Egyptians.

Results

The direct costs of hip fractures incurred during the first year after the injury were estimated at 1,969,385,000 Egyptian pounds (US $63,734,142.4). Time from fracture to surgery was 2.2 + 0.5 days. The average hospital stay after hip fracture surgery was 5.2 + 2.6 days. 4.5% of patients died after surgery, on average 2.3 + 0.4 months. After being discharged from the hospital, all patients needed home care.

Conclusion

Hip fractures have a significant clinical and financial impact on patients and the healthcare system. This study raises red flags for the healthcare policy makers in Egypt, as the financial burden due to the direct costs of hip fractures justifies extensive prevention programs for osteoporosis and fragility fractures. There is an urgent need to implement diagnostic approaches and validated management protocols for bone health disorders and its associated fractures in Egypt.
The influence of vehicle dynamics on the time-dependent resonances of a bridge
Authors: Mostafa Neda , Di Maio Dario , Loendersloot Richard , Tinga Tiedo
Published: October 2023

In bridge structural health monitoring, the response of the bridge while the vehicle is on the bridge, is called a vehicle-bridge interaction (VBI) response. If the vehicle and the bridge are dynamically coupled, the VBI response depends on the bridge’s and the vehicle’s dynamic properties. Therefore, the damage detection techniques based on the bridge resonances become questionable due to the dynamic coupling between the bridge and the vehicle. This study investigates the influence of vehicle dynamics on the bridge’s time-dependent resonances. Vehicle-Induced Delta Frequency (VIDF) represents the changes in the bridge’s time-varying resonances resulting from the vehicle-bridge interaction, while Damage-Induced Delta Frequency (DIDF) accounts for the additional alterations caused by bridge damage. The dynamic interaction between vehicles and bridges (VBIs) is characterized by the frequency ratio between the vehicle (super-system) and the bridge (sub-system). The vehicle frequency is influenced by its dynamics, particularly the suspension systems. Two vehicle models, single suspension and dual suspension vehicles representing passenger trains and freight trains, respectively, are analyzed to assess the significance of vehicle dynamics on VIDF and DIDF. The results demonstrate that both vehicle models experience resonance, which magnifies the dynamic response to damage. However, not all types of vehicles possess the desired dynamic characteristics for effective bridge health monitoring. Trains with single suspension systems exhibit more pronounced changes in the bridge’s frequency response. This characteristic makes them more suitable for effective bridge health monitoring and damage detection.
Paleokarst caves recognition from seismic response simulation to convolutional neural network detection
Authors: Zhu Donglin , Guo Rui , Li Xiangwen , Li Lei , Zhan Shifan , Tao Chunfeng , Gao Yingnan
Published: October 2023

Paleokarst systems, found in carbonate rock formations worldwide, have potential for creating vast reservoirs and facilitating hydrocarbon migration. Thus, studying these systems is essential for the exploration and development of carbonate reservoirs. An approach using convolutional neural networks (CNNs) is introduced to automatically and precisely identify cave features within 3D seismic data. An efficient technique is outlined for generating ample amounts of 3D training data, which is comprised of synthetic seismic data and labels for cave features contained in the seismic data, as a solution to bypass the labeling task for training the CNN. This workflow uses point-spread functions to simulate the cave response in the seismic data and allows us to easily generate realistic and diverse synthetic training data sets with different geologic structures and cave features. By training a CNN with these synthetic data sets, it can effectively learn to detect cave features in field seismic volumes. Upon evaluation using multiple examples, this approach outperforms earlier techniques like seismic attributes and other CNN-based paleokarst characterization methods.
Pathway to Independence: the future of developmental biology
Authors: Agarwal Priti , Cadart Clotilde , Fort Loic , Gahan James , Greenspan Leah , Juan Thomas , Kameneva Polina , Miao Yuchuan
Published: October 2023

In 2022, Development launched its Pathway to Independence (PI) Programme, aimed at supporting postdocs as they transition to their first independent position. We selected eight talented researchers as the first cohort of PI Fellows. In this article, each of our Fellows provides their perspective on the future of their field. Together, they paint an exciting picture of the current state of and open questions in developmental biology.
Editorial
Authors: Weersma Laodicéia Amorim , Coelho Arnaldo Fernandes Matos
Published: October 2023

Diante dos desafios impostos pela pandemia causada pelo SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19), a comunidade científica mundial tem gerado importantes avanços nas pesquisas e, com isso, consolidou-se uma ponte entre a ciência e a sociedade. Segundo Miranda (2021), a pandemia evidenciou a necessidade de vigilância constante a eventuais situações que apresentem risco para a sociedade, assim como criou uma aproximação entre o mundo científico e social.Esse cenário aponta para a necessidade de práticas e de gestão ética que garantam, de algum modo, apossibilidade de se avaliar, criticamente, o desenvolvimento e os rumos do conhecimento e ciência contemporâneos, tendo em vista suas implicações cada vez mais preocupantes para a vida. De fato, conforme o editorial da Revista de Ciência e Educação (REVISÃO..., 2015), a expressão 'ciência e ética' torna-se uma preocupação, em face dos problemas éticos enfrentados por pesquisadores em suas atividades relacionadas à instituição ciência consagrada à produção do conhecimento universal, objetvio, neutro e, pretensamente, sem fronteiras.A integridade da investigação diz respeito, entre outros, à conduta do investigador no tratamento dos dados e na publicação da pesquisa. Neste bojo, delineiam-se as orientações e normas que buscam evitar fraudes. Além disso, chamamos a atenção para as questões ligadas à ‘Ética na Pesquisa’, procedimentos de proteção a seus participantes, diante dos riscos das pesquisas que envolvem seres humanos (LA FARE; CARVALHO; MACHADO, 2014).Em vista do exposto, saudamos a todos com a edição de 2021-3, da Revista Gestão em Análise - ReGeA, na qual estão contempladas essas e outras temáticas do campo da ciência, da pesquisa e, especificamente, da gestão. Ao todo, são dezesseis artigos, um recorde em publicação em uma única edição da ReGeA sob nossa editoria. Tal feito é um reflexo do compromisso em oferecer ferramentas e informações necessárias no contexto de relevância crescente da pesquisa científica e, consequentemente, da importância da presença da ética tanto do pesquisador, como da gestão das organizações. O caminho para o desenvolvimento de uma ‘boa Ciência’, certamente passa pela colaboração de todos, o que tende a conduzir a uma perspectiva de desenvolvimento sustentável.
Η κοινωνική και συναισθηματική επάρκεια μαθητών δημοτικού και γυμνασίου σε σχέση με ατομικούς και συστημικούς παράγοντες
Authors: Μίχου Σπυριδούλα
Published: October 2023

Τις τελευταίες δεκαετίες η μελέτη των παραγόντων που συνδέονται με την κοινωνική και συναισθηματική επάρκεια των παιδιών και των εφήβων αποτελεί αντικείμενο έρευνας στη σχολική ψυχολογία. Το σχολείο αποτελεί βασικό κοινωνικό πλαίσιο το οποίο επιδρά σημαντικά στην ψυχοκοινωνική προσαρμογή παιδιών και εφήβων. Η κατανόηση των παραγόντων που λειτουργούν ενισχυτικά στην κοινωνική και συναισθηματική επάρκεια σε επίπεδο ατόμου και συστήματος γίνεται όλο και περισσότερο σημαντική και αναγκαία ιδιαίτερα υπο το πρίσμα μιας αναπτυξιακής οπτικής. Ο στόχος αυτής της εργασίας είναι η διερεύνηση των σχέσεων της κοινωνικής και συναισθηματικής επάρκειας των παιδιών και των εφήβων με δημογραφικές και άλλες ψυχολογικές μεταβλητές. Ειδικότερα, η παρούσα προσπάθεια αφορά στην συνεξέταση σημαντικών διαστάσεων που αφορούν στο άτομο και το κοινωνικό-συναισθηματικό πλαίσιο του σχολείου και της τάξης, και πως αυτές οι διαστάσεις συσχετίζονται με τις επιμέρους διαστάσεις της κοινωνικής και συναισθηματικής επάρκειας. Τα αποτελέσματα ανέδειξαν σημαντικά ευρήματα για τη σχέση των διαστάσεων της κοινωνικής και συναισθηματικής επάρκειας τόσο με δημογραφικούς παράγοντες όσο και με παράγοντες σε επίπεδο ατόμου (σχολική εμπλοκή) και σε επίπεδο συστήματος (ψυχική ανθεκτικότητα σε επίπεδο σχολικής τάξης, σχολείο ως κοινότητα που νοιάζεται και φροντίζει). Τα ευρήματα της παρούσας έρευνας παρέχουν τη δυνατότητα μιας πολύπλευρης κατανόησης της έννοιας επάρκειας και της προσαρμογής των παιδιών και των εφήβων, λαμβάνοντας υπόψη παράγοντες που σχετίζονται τόσο με το ίδιο το άτομο όσο και με το ευρύτερο κλίμα της τάξης και του σχολείου.
Η ιστορική μνήμη για τα Οθωμανικά Γιαννιτσά
Authors: Τριανταφυλλίδου Μαρία
Published: October 2023

Η διδακτορική διατριβή είναι μια μελέτη περίπτωσης με αντικείμενο την ιστορική μνήμη για την οθωμανική πόλη των Γιαννιτσών. Θέτει δύο βασικούς ερευνητικούς στόχους: από τη μια, να μελετήσει την αναπαράσταση του οθωμανικού παρελθόντος στην εξέλιξη του 20ού αιώνα καταλήγοντας την τρέχουσα περίοδο. Από την άλλη, επιχειρεί την κάθετη διερεύνηση και μελετά την ιστορική μνήμη στην επίσημη και την από τα κάτω διάσταση. Αντλεί το θεωρητικό πλαίσιο από το επιστημονικό πεδίο των σπουδών της μνήμης. Συγκεκριμένα, αξιοποιεί από το δεύτερο κύμα την προσέγγιση για τη δυναμική εθνική μνήμη, ενώ από το τρίτο κύμα αυτήν για την πολυκατευθυντήρια μνήμη. Με τη διπλή θεωρητική κατεύθυνση μελετά το αποτύπωμα της εθνικής μνήμης και ταυτόχρονα αναζητά το διάλογο με άλλες μνήμες. Στη διάρκεια του 20ού αιώνα η οθωμανική πόλη των Γιαννιτσών εκδιώχθηκε από την επίσημη μνήμη με το κυρίαρχο αφήγημα του τουρκικού ζυγού. Η καταστροφή των οθωμανικών μουσουλμανικών μνημείων και ο πολεοδομικός μετασχηματισμός των μεταοθωμανικών Γιαννιτσών είναι τα απτά τεκμήρια της λήθης τα οποία η διδακτορική διατριβή αρχικά μελετά. Το αφήγημα, όμως, του τουρκικού ζυγού δεν φωτίζει απόλυτα τον προσανατολισμό της μνήμης της οθωμανικής περιόδου. Αντίθετα, μπορεί να οδηγήσει σε μια ελλιπή εικόνα κατανόησης. Απαιτείται η υπέρβαση της συγκρουσιακής πρόσληψης προκειμένου να αναζητηθεί η διαπραγμάτευση της μνήμης της οθωμανικής περιόδου με τις μνήμες του 20ού αιώνα, όπως την Ανταλλαγή των Πληθυσμών στον μεσοπόλεμο και τη διαιρεμένη μνήμη της δεκαετίας του 1940 μέσω των οποίων εγγράφει διασταυρούμενη τη λήθη. Καταλήγοντας η διδακτορική διατριβή μελετά τη διεθνική μνήμη. Συγκεκριμένα, διερευνά τον τρόπο που διαπραγματεύονται οι πολιτικές της μνήμης των βαλκανικών κρατών, της Βόρειας Μακεδονίας, της Βουλγαρίας, της Ελλάδας και της Τουρκίας για το κοινό παρελθόν των Γιαννιτσών. Αναμφίβολα η ιστορική μνήμη διαμορφώνεται μέσω του παροντισμού. Η οθωμανική πόλη, όμως, δεν είναι ένας παθητικός δέκτης όπου η μνήμη επικάθεται. Η διατριβή αναζητά τον ενεργό ρόλο του οθωμανικού παρελθόντος στην αναπαράστασή του. Για το λόγο αυτό διεισδύει στην οθωμανική περίοδο όπου μελετά τις τοπικές παραδόσεις και τις όψεις συνέχειας στο μεταοθωμανικό τοπίο. Η αναπαράσταση του οθωμανικού παρελθόντος δεν είναι ενιαία και ομοιογενής. Επομένως, τα συμπεράσματα αυτής της διδακτορικής διατριβής δεν έχουν γενική ισχύ. Η μνήμη της οθωμανικής περιόδου θα πρέπει να μελετάται μέσα στη ιδιαίτερη σύνθεση της κάθε περίπτωσης.
Correlation between mental well-being and severity of class II temporomandibular joint disorders, compared to non-temporomandibular joint disorders
Authors: Shrivastav Sunita , Sanchla Abhishek
Published: October 2023

Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs) are one of the most common ailments encountered in the craniofacial region, with various clinical, radiological and psychological manifestations but often go undiagnosed due to lack of a diagnostic protocol to assess and correlate all these factors in order to create an effective management plan based on early diagnosis. The objectives of this research are to assess, compare and co-relate the severity of clinical and radiological findings with mental well-being in class II (vertical growth pattern) TMD cases as compared to class I non-TMD cases. Grading of skeletal class II cases on the severity of TMD will be done using Diagnostic Criteria for TMDs (DC/TMD). Bilateral sagittal as well as coronal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images will be obtained. Evaluation and grading of mental well-being and anxiety will be done using the Warwick-Edinburgh and Hamilton scales, respectively. The expected results are a probable positive correlation between the severity of clinical and radiological symptoms of TMDs and deteriorating mental well-being in the form of stress, anxiety and depression. A cause-effect relationship may be evaluated with the aim of early diagnosis and management of TMDs as improving the quality of life of these cases. This study will aid in identifying the clinical symptoms and articular disc position on MRI as they correlate with the mental well-being status and anxiety levels in TMD cases. Further management and early intervention can be undertaken in such cases to prevent or stall the progression of TMD into severe forms while improving the quality of life (QoL) in such cases.