bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Sodium-glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors on Echocardiography-derived Total Atrial Conduction Time
Authors: TAŞTAN ERCAN , BESKİSİZ SONGÜL
Published: June 2023

Background: Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors constitute a new class of glucose-lowering agents. A large number of clinical trials have demonstrated that SGLT2 inhibitors improve the cardiovascular outcomes of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Structural changes (increased fibrosis and hypertrophy) and electrical remodeling of the atria are among the myocardial changes induced by DM. Studies have shown that SGLT2 inhibitors reduce oxidative stress and improve mitochondrial function, thus reducing atrial fibrosis and hypertrophy. Echocardiography-derived total atrial conduction time (TACT) is a marker of atrial remodeling. TACT is calculated as the time delay between the onset of the P wave on an electrocardiogram and the peak A′ wave obtained from tissue Doppler imaging (PA-TDI duration). The aim of the present study was to investigate whether SGLT2 inhibitors reduce the TACTs of T2DM patients.
Methods: This prospective, single-center pilot study was performed to evaluate the effects of additional treatment with SGLT2 inhibitors on the TACTs of T2DM patients. Between March 2022 and December 2022, 107 T2DM outpatients who had inadequately controlled were consecutively recruited from Gazi Yaşargil Training and Research Hospital, Diyarbakir, Turkey. All participants were evaluated at baseline and six months after commencing treatment with SGLT2 inhibitors. TACT was calculated as the mean time across six different regions between the onset of the P wave in lead II of an ECG and the peak A′ wave obtained from tissue Doppler imaging .
Results: A total of 107 T2DM patients were included in the study. Among them, 57 were on dapagliflozin, and 50 were on empagliflozin. A univariate correlation analysis showed that the mean PA-TDI was correlated with Δ BMI (r = 0.094, p = 0.044) and Δ lateral E/e′ ratio (r = 0,312, p = 0.001). A multiple regression analysis revealed that Δ BMI and Δ lateral E/e′ ratio (p = 0.026 and p = 0.001, respectively) were inversely related to the mean PA-TDI duration. These findings remained after adjusting the Δ mean PA-TDI value for age and sex.
Conclusion: This study showed for the first time that SGLT2 inhibitors can reduce TACT, likely by improving diastolic parameters and atrial remodeling and decreasing BMI.
Elevated expression of N-myc downstream regulated gene 1 protein promotes neovascularization and tumor progression in glioblastomas
Authors: Sugita Yasuo , Furuta Takuya , Takahashi Kenji , Higaki Koichi , Shioga Taro , Murakami Yuichi , Kuwano Michihiko , Ono Mayumi , Abe Hideyuki , Akiba Jun , Morioka Motohiro
Published: June 2023

Aim
The N-myc downstream regulated gene 1 (NDRG1) is a member of the NDRG family, of which four members (NDRG1, NDRG2, NDRG3, NDRG4) have been identified. NDRG1 is repressed by c-MYC and N-MYC proto-oncogenes. NDRG1 is translated into a 43 kDa protein that is associated with the regulation of cellular stress responses, proliferation and differentiation. In this study, we aimed to clarify the relationship between progression of glioblastoma (GB) IDH-wildtype and NDRG1 expression in tumor cells.
Methods
We assessed the expression of NRDG1 in 42 GBs using immunostaining, and evaluated its prognostic significance. NDRG1 expression of GBs was evaluated using Histoscore, which showed high and low scores in 25 and 17 cases, respectively. Additionally, expression of NRDG1 mRNA was confirmed in frozen tissue specimens from seven GB cases and a GB cell line, respectively.
Results
NDRG1 positive cells were strongly expressed in Ki-67 labeled proliferating tumor cells and CD105 positive microvessels around the pseudopalisade. Statistical analyses showed lower survival rates in the high-score group than the low-score group (p < 0.01).
Conclusion
This study indicated that overexpression of NDRG1 was related to the progression and angiogenesis of GBs.
Evaluating LIBS in conjunction with machine learning algorithms as a spectrochemical diagnostic method for the discrimination of diabetes mellitus from urine samples
Authors: Rehan Imran , Khan Saranjam , Gondal M. A. , Abbas Qamar , Ullah Rahat
Published: June 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Anatomical and Morphological Changes in Scots Pine and Siberian Larch Needles Under Impact of Emissions From a Large Aluminum Enterprise
Authors: Kalugina Olga Vladimirovna , Mikhailova Tatiana Alekseevna , Afanasyeva Larisa Vladimirovna
Published: June 2023

Species-specific anatomical and morphological changes of Scots pine and Siberian larch needles were studied at different levels pollution by aluminum smelter emissions. Anatomical parameters were found to change non-linearly in polluted needles as a result of pathological exposure to pollutants. In pine, negative anatomical changes include the following: reduction of the cross-sectional area of needles, central cylinder and conductive bundles, reduction of the thickness of the external tissues and mesophyll, reduction of resin channels and a decrease in their diameter. At a critical level of pollution, when the content of pollutants in pine needles reaches maximum values, certain changes in anatomical parameters in the remaining green needles are presumably adaptive. In larch needles at low, moderate and high levels of needles pollution, the anatomical changes found can be classed as adaptive – this is an increase in needles mass, thickness and width, thickness of the epidermis, mesophyll, cross-sectional area of needles. Larch needles, even at a critical pollution level, show no significant anatomical abnormalities. Negative morphological changes of pine include a decrease in the size of needles and shoots, their mass and the number of needles on shoots, in larch – a decrease in the length of needles and shoots, the number of brachiblasts. The results obtained suggest that indicators of the development of pathological processes in both pine and larch exposed to pollution are changes in the number of visual and morphological parameters of tree needles and shoots. Both showed a high level of correlation with the content of pollutants in the needles.
Knowledge, perception and Quality of Life assessment of Chikungunya Infected patients in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: SIAM Mohammad Kawsar SHARIF , Tanni Farah Naz , Shohan Mohammad Umer Sharif
Published: June 2023

During mid-2017, a major outbreak occurred in Bangladesh especially in Dhaka city. Before this outbreak, the people of Bangladesh did not have adequate knowledge about the Chikungunya infection virus. Throughout our study, we wanted to find the level of knowledge of the patients. Additionally, we wanted to see what sort of impact chikungunya put on the quality of life (QoL) of these patients. The cross-sectional study consisted of 50 (100% participation in follow up) healthcare background and 98 non-healthcare (91.84% participation in follow up). Preparation of the questionnaire was done after proper analysis. The questionnaire was validated applying reliability scale. The value of Cronbach alpha is found more than 0.5 that validated the questionnaire. In the cross-sectional study, we compared the knowledge and perception by using different statistical analysis tools and models. Also, in the follow-up study, statistical analysis was done to find out the impacts on QoL using a systemic methodology. 51.35% of patients who participated in the study are female. From the total patients, 52.03% took home remedies for recovery as 46.62% visited the hospitals. Preexisting medical conditions are not affected by 69.59% of patients. However, in the cross-sectional study, differences in knowledge are found between healthcare and non-healthcare patients. Healthcare patients have more significant (p-value < 0.05) knowledge (e.g. chikungunya is a viral infection) than non-healthcare patients. From the two-sample T-test, we found no significant difference in the average awareness in some truth, false and perception-based statements among healthcare and non-healthcare patients. In a follow-up study, patients have faced different types of post-chikungunya symptoms like joint pain, muscle pain, skin problems (mostly rashes), headache, etc. from which, joint pain and headache were most significant (p-value < 0.05). Findings of this suggest that they experienced worse QoL in terms of a physical and mental state than before having affected by chikungunya infection although there is less effect on QoL in terms of financial condition. Our study shows that the difference between healthcare and non-healthcare patients is significant. This will help us to establish awareness and knowledge campaigns among the general people. Additionally, our study will help people to take post chikungunya cautions.
ClearSpeechTogether versus standard NHS speech intervention: Study protocol for a single, mixed method, rater blinded pilot randomised controlled trial for people living with MSA-C
Authors: Lowit Anja , Beith Alistair , Young David , Hadjivassiliou Marios
Published: June 2023

Background: Speech and communication problems are a common symptom of cerebellar Multiple System Atrophy (MSA-C). While recent studies have suggested that these patients can benefit from speech therapy, no properly controlled, large scale investigation of effectiveness has been conducted to date. Furthermore, studies have not focused on how novel, often workload intensive approaches compare to existing standard care. The aim of the current project is to establish feasibility and acceptability of a intensive, mixed individual / group, peer supported speech therapy approach (ClearSpeechTogether) in a group of patients with MSA-C, and to pilot a two-arm RCT comparing it to standard individual therapy.
Methods: This protocol outlines a pilot study for a mixed-method registered controlled trial. 24 patients will be allocated in a 1:1 ratio to either existing speech \& language therapy provision or ClearSpeechTogether. Two pre-therapy speech assessments will be carried out followed by 6 weeks of therapy, a post-therapy assessment and a follow-up assessment after 8 weeks. These assessments will evaluate physiological functioning, impairment and participation. Three qualitative interviews will also be conducted at pre, post and follow-up to investigate patients' experiences of the interventions.
Discussion: Demonstrating acceptability, feasibility and communication benefits in the current pilot would set the basis for a larger registered controlled trial. If indications of additional benefits of ClearSpeechTogether over existing provisions are found a full superiority trial would be conducted.
Trial registration: ISRCTN, ISRCTN44652664. Registered 16 December 2022, https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN44652664
Current mean values in the XYZ model
Authors: Pristyák Levente , Pozsgay Balázs
Published: June 2023

The XYZ model is an integrable spin chain which has an infinite set of conserved charges, but it lacks a global U(1)U(1)-symmetry. We consider the current operators, which describe the flow of the conserved quantities in this model. We derive an exact result for the current mean values, valid for any eigenstate in a finite volume with periodic boundary conditions. This result can serve as a basis for studying the transport properties of this model within Generalized Hydrodynamics.
Drivers of potential policyholders’ uptake of insurance in Kenya using Random Forest
Authors: K. Yego Nelson , Nkurunziza Joseph , Kasozi Juma
Published: June 2023

The low adoption of insurance by potential policyholders in developing countries like Kenya is a cause for concern for insurers, regulators, and other marketing stakeholders. To effectively design targeted marketing strategies to boost insurance adoption, it is crucial to determine the factors that affect insurance uptake among potential policyholders. In this study, the 2021 FinAccess Survey, which interviewed sampled individuals above 16 years in Kenya and machine learning techniques, including Random Forest, XGBoost, and Logistic Regression, were utilized to uncover the factors driving insurance uptake and the reasons for the low adoption of insurance among potential policyholders. Random Forest was the most robust model of the three classifiers based on Kappa score, recall score, F1 score, precision, and area under the operating characteristic curve (approaching 1). The paper explores eight reasons why people currently do not have insurance policies. The results indicated that affordability was the primary driver of uptake with 68.67% of having expressed a desire to possess insurance but are unable to afford it. The highest level of education being the next most significant factor. Cultural and religious beliefs and mistrust of insurance providers were found to have a minimal impact on uptake. These findings imply that offering affordable insurance products and conducting awareness campaigns are critical to increase insurance adoption.
Living Religious Moderation within the Sipakatau, Sipakainge’, and Sipakalebbi Cultures of the Bugis Community
Authors: Zubair Asni , Hamzah Hamzah , Satriadi Satriadi
Published: June 2023

This study aims to identify indicators of religious moderation in the internalization of Sipakatau, Sipakainge’, and Sipakalebbi cultures among the Bugis community in Mallari Village, Awangpone District, Bone Regency. It employs qualitative research in the form of case studies and interpretive methods. Data collection involves observation and interviews, with the analytical theory of indicators of religious moderation in Indonesia. The findings revealed several indicators of religious moderation in the mentioned cultures. Firstly, Sipakatau culture demonstrates tolerance and the accommodation of local values, as seen in socio-political life, emphasizing respect for political differences and upholding deliberation. Secondly, Sipakainge’ culture is committed to national values, evident through community compliance with village regulations and educational activities aligned with national education orientation. Lastly, the value of humanism is observed in the internalization of Sipakalebbi culture, as reflected in village government policies that empower individuals with disabilities. Theoretical implications suggest that religious moderation can be integrated into local wisdom through socio-political, educational, and cultural activities. However, the study’s limitations include not examining obstacles or challenges in mainstreaming religious moderation within the Sipakatau, Sipakainge’, and Sipakalebbi cultures in Mallari Village.
Research on multi-objective optimal allocation of regional water resources based on improved sparrow search algorithm
Authors: Yao Zhiyuan , Wang Zhaocai , Cui Xuefei , Zhao Haifeng
Published: June 2023

Nowadays, the conflict between the supply and demand of water resources in many regions is becoming increasingly prominent. Scientific allocation of regional water resources has become the key to solving the contradiction. In this study, a regional multi-objective water resources optimization allocation model considering social, economic, and ecological objectives is established, and four improvement spots are introduced to the sparrow search algorithm (SSA) to form an improved sparrow search algorithm (ISSA). By testing nine benchmark functions including monotonic and multi-peaked, the search efficiency and average convergence results of ISSA are significantly enhanced compared with other intelligent algorithms. Meanwhile, this research uses Luanchuan County, Henan Province, China, as an example to solve the water resource allocation scheme for 2025 and 2030 in the region using ISSA. The results show that the overall water shortage rate decreases to 3.49 and 2.79%, respectively, under the 75% guarantee rate, resulting in an effective reduction in future water shortages. Simultaneously, the scheme proposed has sound comprehensive benefits and can provide important technical support for the refined management of water resources, which is a reference and guidance for solving the contradiction between water supply and demand at the current stage.
Sustainability indexes in water–food–energy nexus to develop strategies with respect to virtual water
Authors: Huang Shan , Zeng Fusheng
Published: June 2023

The management of water resources requires a correct understanding of the simultaneous management of food and energy resources. The framework of water–food–energy correlation with the approach of sustainability of resources and uses analyzes the combined management and exploitation of water, food, and energy resources with the help of scenario planning. In addition to sustainability concepts, environmental costs such as the emission of carbon dioxide from fossil fuels and its impact on the environment are also discussed. In this research, according to the five defined indicators and based on the potential of using solar energy and the possibility of exploiting renewable energy sources such as solar energy, various management scenarios have been developed. After examining the virtual water management model developed in the Hunan basin as a case study, the development of the water–food–energy nexus model and its calibration, and four scenarios including improving water use efficiency, energy saving, increasing food productivity, and nexus sustainability were developed. The results showed that the nexus strategy can provide sustainability goals according to the weight of each component. After the combined scenario, improving the efficiency of water consumption can be the component with the highest priority in the decision-making model in dry areas.
Understanding the Molecular Aspects of Vitamins in Parkinson’s Disease:
Present-day Concepts and Perspectives
Authors: Behl Tapan , Madaan Piyush , Sehgal Aayush , Makeen Hafiz A. , Albratty Mohammed , Alhazmi Hassan A. , Meraya Abdulkarim M. , Anwer Md. Khalid , Verma Raman
Published: June 2023

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is designated as a convoluted nerve cell devastating disorder that encompasses the profound declination of dopaminergic (DArgic) nerve cells of the mesencephalon region. The condition is sketched by four eminent motor manifestations, namely, slow movement, muscle tension, shaking, and disrupted balance, but the pathology behind these manifestations is still vague. Modern-day medicinal treatment emphasizes curbing the manifestations via introducing a gold standard (levodopa) instead of forestalling the DArgic nerve cell destruction. Therefore, the invention and utilization of novel neuroprotective candidates are of paramount importance in overcoming PD. Vitamins are organic molecules engaged in the modulation of evolution, procreation, biotransformation, and other operations of the body. Numerous studies employing varying experimental models have promulgated a prominent linkage between vitamins and PD. Vitamins, owing to their antioxidant and gene expression modulation abilities, might be efficacious in PD therapy. Recent corroborations depict that adequate augmentation of vitamins might de-escalate the manifestations and emergence of PD; however, the safety of daily vitamin intake must be considered. By assembling the comprehensive information obtained from existing publications via searching various renowned medical portals, the investigators render in-depth insights into the physiological association amongst vitamins (D, E, B3, and C) and PD and concerned pathological processes and their safeguarding actions in varied PD models. Furthermore, the manuscript delineates the remedial aptitude of vitamins in PD therapy. Conclusively, augmentation of vitamins (owing to their antioxidant and gene expression regulation capabilities) might appear as a novel and terribly efficacious ancillary therapeutic approach for PD.
Therapeutic Effect and Mechanism Prediction of Fuzi-Gancao Herb
Couple on Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) based on Network
Pharmacology and Molecular Docking
Authors: Liu Kejia , Yang Xu , Zhang Guihong , Xiang Zheng
Published: June 2023

Background:

Fuzi-Gancao herb couple is one of the most common herb couples involved
in the TCM formula, which was used for the treatment of chronic diseases. The herb couple
has a hepatoprotective effect. However, its main components and therapeutic mechanism are not
yet clear. This study aims to elucidate the therapeutic effect and mechanism of the Fuzi-Gancao
herb couple on NAFLD from animal experiments, network pharmacology, and molecular docking.

Methods:

60 Male C57BL/6 mice (20 g ± 2 g) were randomly divided into six groups including the
blank group (n=10) and NALFD group (n=50). The mice of the NALFD group were fed with a
high-fat diet for 20 weeks to establish the NAFLD model and the NALFD mice were randomly divided
into five groups including positive group (berberine), model group and F-G groups with
three dosages (0.257, 0.514, 0.771 g/kg) (n=10). After 10 weeks of administration, the serum was
collected for the analysis of ALT, AST, LDL-c, HDL-c, and TC, and liver tissues were collected
for pathological analysis. The TCMAS database was used to collect the main components and targets
of the Fuzi-Gancao herb couple. The GeneCards database was used to collect NAFLD-related
targets, and the key targets were obtained by intersecting with herbal targets. The diseasecomponent-
target relationship diagram was constructed by Cytoscape 3.9.1. The obtained key targets
were imported into the String database to obtain the PPI network, and imported into the DAVID
database for KEGG pathway analysis and GO analysis. Finally, the key targets and key gene
proteins were imported into Discovery Studio 2019 for molecular docking verification.

Results:

In this study, H-E staining indicated the pathological changes of liver tissue in Fuzi-
Gancao groups were significantly improved, and the levels of AST, ALT, TC, HDL-c, and LDL-c
in serum of Fuzi-Gancao groups decreased in a dose-dependent manner, compared with the model
group. 103 active components and 299 targets in the Fuzi-Gancao herb couple were confirmed in
the TCMSP database and 2062 disease targets in NAFLD were obtained. 142 key targets and 167
signal pathways were screened, such as the AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications,
HIF-1 signaling pathway, IL-17 signaling pathway, TNF signaling pathway, and so on. The
main bioactive ingredients of Fuzi-Gancao herb couple in the treatment of NAFLD are quercetin,
kaempferol, naringenin, inermine, (R)-norcoclaurine, isorhamnetin, ignavine, 2,7-Dideacetyl-2,7-
dibenzoyl-taxayunnanine F, glycyrol mainly involving IL6, AKT1, TNF, TP53, IL1B, VEGFA and
other core targets. Molecular docking analysis indicated that there is a good affinity between the
key components and the key targets.

Conclusion:

This study preliminarily explained the main components and mechanism of the Fuzi-
Gancao herb couple in the treatment of NAFLD and provided an idea for subsequent research.
N-Heterocyclic Compounds, In silico Molecular Docking Studies, and In
vitro Enzyme Inhibition Effect against Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors
Authors: Guzel Abdussamat , Isık Zeynep , Gok Yetkin , Taskin-Tok Tugba , Aktas Aydın
Published: June 2023

Background:

This work contains the synthesis of seven new N-heterocyclic compounds bearing imidazole, benzimidazole, pyridine, and morpholine moieties.

Objective:

We aimed to synthesize N-heterocyclic compounds for a more effective drug candidate to increase the amount of acetylcholine in synapses in Alzheimer's disease. All compounds were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, FTIR and elemental analysis. Enzyme inhibition activity of all compounds against acetylcholinesterase was investigated, which is an indirect treatment for Alzheimer's. Molecular docking was applied to estimate the binding energy of these compounds to the acetylcholinesterase.

Methods:

All compounds were synthesized from reactions of 2 equivalents of N-heterocyclic starting material and 1 equivalent of 4,4'-bis(chloromethyl)-1,1'-biphenyl. The inhibition parameters of IC50 and Ki were calculated by the spectrophotometric method. AutoDock4 was used to define the binding pose of the compounds.

Results:

Ki values were found in the range of 80.03±19.64 to 5014.98±1139.60 nM for AChE as an enzyme inhibition strategy, which is an important parameter for the treatment of neurodegenerative such as Alzheimer's disease. In this study, molecular docking is exerted to predict the binding energy of heterocyclic compounds (especially 2, 3, and 5) against acetylcholinesterase enzyme. Their docking binding energies are in good agreement with experimental findings.

Conclusion:

These new syntheses are drugs that can be used as AChE inhibitors in Alzheimer's disease.
Arthritis of the Hip Caused by Arteriovenous Malformations: A Case Report
Authors: Yu Xiao , Zhou Xiao-Qiang , Lin Jie , Zhang Jing-Yu , Li Suo-Yuan , Liu Yu-Bo , Zhou Da-Yong , Lv Jing-Huan , Chen Guang-Xiang , Xu Ren-Jie
Published: June 2023

Background::

Arthritis of the hip caused by arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) has been rarely reported. Therefore, total hip replacement (THR) in patients with AVM-induced arthritis of the hip is challenging.

Case Summary:

We report a 44-year-old woman with aggravated right hip pain during the past decade. The patient presented with severe pain and a functional disorder of the right hip. X-ray examination revealed severely narrowed right hip joint space and abnormal trabecular bone loss in the femoral neck and trochanter area. Doppler ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography angiography revealed AVMs surrounding the right hip, along with erosion. To ensure the safety of THR, we performed vascular embolization and temporary balloon occlusion of the iliac artery three times during the operation. However, serious hemorrhage occurred, which was rescued by the multimodality blood conservation strategy. THR was successfully performed, and the patient was discharged 8 d later for rehabilitation. Postoperative pathological examination showed osteonecrosis of the femoral head with malformed thick-walled vessels and focal granulomatous inflammation of the surrounding soft tissues. The Harris Hip Scale score increased from 31 to 82 at 3 mo of follow-up. The patient was followed up for 1 year, and all her clinical symptoms were significantly alleviated.

Conclusion:

Arthritis of the hip caused by AVMs is rare in clinical practice. The activity and function of the involved hip joint can be effectively treated with THR after comprehensive imaging and multidisciplinary consultation.

Core Tip::

Arthritis of the hip caused by arteriovenous malformations is rarely reported. Total hip replacement (THR) is a reliable and effective option for the
treatment of advanced arthritis of the hip. We report a 44-year-old woman with aggravated pain in the right hip during the past decade. With the
vascular intervention and multimodality blood conservation strategy. THR can be successfully performed in patients with AVM-induced arthritis
of the hip.
Development of Dermatomyositis after Pfizer BioNTeh COVID-19
Vaccine: A Case Report
Authors: Aouintia Imen , Daly Wiem , Lakhoua Ghozlane , Kaabi Widd , Charfi Ons , Debbeche Sana , Kastalli Sarrah , Zaiem Ahmed , El Aidli Sihem
Published: June 2023

Introduction:

The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic led to the fast development
of vaccines, which is considered a medical advance in healthcare. With the extensive
vaccination campaign performed worldwide, many adverse events following immunization (AEFI)
were reported. Most of them were flu-like symptoms, mild and self-limiting. However, serious adverse
events, such as dermatomyositis (DM), an idiopathic autoimmune connective tissue
disease, have also been reported.

Case Presentation:

In this report, we describe a case of skin erythema, edema, and diffuse myalgia
attributed at first to Pfizer BioNTeh, COVID-19 vaccination, given the temporal relationship and
the absence of significant medical history. The causality assessment score was I1B2. However,
after completing the etiological assessment, an invasive breast carcinoma was identified, and we
retained the diagnosis of paraneoplastic DM.

Conclusion:

This study underlines the importance of completing the etiological assessment before
attributing any adverse reaction to vaccination to maintain optimal patient care.
WITHDRAWN: Tunable Biological Characteristics of Nanobiomaterials
for Bone Tissue Engineering
Authors: Darghiasi Seyedeh Farnaz , Naghib Seyed Morteza , Hosseine Mojtaba
Published: June 2023

The article has been withdrawn at the request of the authors of the journal Current Mechanics and Advanced Materials.

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of their article is transferred to the publishers if and when the article is accepted for publication.
WeChat-Based Intervention for Chinese Immigrants With Hypertension: Development and Evaluation Study
Authors: Li Wen-Wen , Toh Prisca
Published: June 2023

Background

Despite Chinese immigrants having a higher or comparable proportion of hypertension (HTN) compared to non-Hispanic White and Hispanic individuals, there are no effective technology-based intervention studies that target HTN management in Chinese immigrants in the United States.

Objective

The aim of this study was to develop and pilot-test the efficacy of a culturally and linguistically sensitive social media–based intervention (WeChat) for Chinese immigrants to improve blood pressure (BP) control, antihypertensive medication adherence, and self-efficacy.

Methods

The study was conducted in 2020 with a pre- and posttest design (N=20). A WeChat-based intervention was implemented using one 20-minute video presentation plus one 20-minute nurse counseling session via WeChat at the baseline, followed by 4 biweekly 20-minute nurse counseling sessions via WeChat calls. The primary outcome (BP control) and secondary outcomes, including medication adherence and self-efficacy in HTN management, were measured at baseline and at 6 months.

Results

The participants’ mean age was 68.9 (SD 10.2; range: 51-86) years. The majority of the participants were female (n=13, 65%), had a high school degree or less (n=15, 75%), were married (n=16, 80%), not religious (n=13, 65%), and not employed (n=12, 60%). The results showed that the mean baseline systolic BP was 131.43 (SD 9.61) mmHg, and the mean diastolic BP was 79.79 (SD 9.62) mmHg. The 6-month outcome showed a reduction of systolic BP (–0.74, SD 9.18 mmHg; P=.05) and diastolic BP (–0.96, SD 6.92 mmHg; P=.001). The mean score for medication adherence at baseline was 4.50 (SD 1.70), and it significantly improved to 3.65 (SD 1.18) at 6 months (reversely scored; possible range was 1-5, with 1 being the best score; P=.001). Self-efficacy in HTN management had a trend in reduction from a baseline score of 8.28 (SD 1.25) decreasing to 7.93 (SD 1.48) at 6 months, with a mean difference of 0.34 (SD 2.02), with a score of 0 indicating the lowest self-efficacy and a score of 10 indicating the highest self-efficacy.

Conclusions

Our WeChat-based HTN management program showed a significant improvement in diastolic BP and medication adherence as well as a trend of reduction for systolic BP and self-efficacy in managing HTN in Chinese immigrants. Compared to the traditional health care system, the proposed WeChat-based HTN management program has a low cost and is easy to implement. Thus, further investigation is recommended to generate further results. This intervention should be tested across different regions and clinical settings to verify the findings. The long-term goal is to implement the intervention in clinical settings to help Chinese immigrants at large achieve better HTN management.
Utility of ChatGPT in Clinical Practice
Authors: Liu Jialin , Wang Changyu , Liu Siru
Published: June 2023

ChatGPT is receiving increasing attention and has a variety of application scenarios in clinical practice. In clinical decision support, ChatGPT has been used to generate accurate differential diagnosis lists, support clinical decision-making, optimize clinical decision support, and provide insights for cancer screening decisions. In addition, ChatGPT has been used for intelligent question-answering to provide reliable information about diseases and medical queries. In terms of medical documentation, ChatGPT has proven effective in generating patient clinical letters, radiology reports, medical notes, and discharge summaries, improving efficiency and accuracy for health care providers. Future research directions include real-time monitoring and predictive analytics, precision medicine and personalized treatment, the role of ChatGPT in telemedicine and remote health care, and integration with existing health care systems. Overall, ChatGPT is a valuable tool that complements the expertise of health care providers and improves clinical decision-making and patient care. However, ChatGPT is a double-edged sword. We need to carefully consider and study the benefits and potential dangers of ChatGPT. In this viewpoint, we discuss recent advances in ChatGPT research in clinical practice and suggest possible risks and challenges of using ChatGPT in clinical practice. It will help guide and support future artificial intelligence research similar to ChatGPT in health.
Impact of translation on biomedical information extraction: evaluation on real-life clinical notes (Preprint)
Authors: Gérardin Christel , Xiong Yuhan , Wajsbürt Perceval , Carrat Fabrice , Tannier Xavier
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

Biomedical natural language processing tasks are best performed with English models, and translation tools have undergone major improvements. On the other hand, building annotated biomedical datasets remains a challenge.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of our study is to determine whether using English tools to extract and normalize French medical concepts on translations provides comparable performance to French models trained on a set of annotated French clinical notes.

METHODS

We compare two methods: a method involving French language models and a method involving English language models. For the native French method, the Named Entity Recognition (NER) and normalization steps are performed separately. For the translated English method, after the first translation step, we compare a two-step method and a terminology- oriented method that performs extraction and normalization at the same time. We used French, English and bilingual annotated datasets to evaluate all steps (NER, normalization and translation) of our algorithms.

RESULTS

The native French method performs better than the translated English one with a global f1 score of 0.51 [0.47;0.55] against 0.39 [0.34;0.44] and 0.38 [0.36;0.40] for the two English methods tested.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the recent improvement of the translation models, there is a significant performance difference between the two approaches in favor of the native French method which is more efficient on French medical texts, even with few annotated documents.
ChatGPT Interactive Medical Simulations for Early Clinical Education: Case Study (Preprint)
Authors: Scherr Riley , Halaseh Faris F , Spina Aidin , Andalib Saman , Rivera Ronald
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

The transition to clinical clerkships can be difficult for medical students, as it requires the synthesis and application of preclinical information into diagnostic and therapeutic decisions. ChatGPT—a generative language model with many medical applications due to its creativity, memory, and accuracy—can help students in this transition.

OBJECTIVE

This paper models ChatGPT 3.5’s ability to perform interactive clinical simulations and shows this tool’s benefit to medical education.

METHODS

Simulation starting prompts were refined using ChatGPT 3.5 in Google Chrome. Starting prompts were selected based on assessment format, stepwise progression of simulation events and questions, free-response question type, responsiveness to user inputs, postscenario feedback, and medical accuracy of the feedback. The chosen scenarios were advanced cardiac life support and medical intensive care (for sepsis and pneumonia).

RESULTS

Two starting prompts were chosen. Prompt 1 was developed through 3 test simulations and used successfully in 2 simulations. Prompt 2 was developed through 10 additional test simulations and used successfully in 1 simulation.

CONCLUSIONS

ChatGPT is capable of creating simulations for early clinical education. These simulations let students practice novel parts of the clinical curriculum, such as forming independent diagnostic and therapeutic impressions over an entire patient encounter. Furthermore, the simulations can adapt to user inputs in a way that replicates real life more accurately than premade question bank clinical vignettes. Finally, ChatGPT can create potentially unlimited free simulations with specific feedback, which increases access for medical students with lower socioeconomic status and underresourced medical schools. However, no tool is perfect, and ChatGPT is no exception; there are concerns about simulation accuracy and replicability that need to be addressed to further optimize ChatGPT’s performance as an educational resource.
Design of Water Quality Monitoring System for Koi Fish Farming Using NodeMCU ESP32 and Blynk Application Based on Internet of Things
Authors: Rosandi Dendi , Junaidi Junaidi , Apriyanto Donni Kis , Surtono Arif
Published: June 2023

Intisari – Penelitian tentang rancang bangun sistem pemantauan kualitas air budidaya ikan koi telah dilakukan menggunakan NodeMCU ESP32 berbasis Internet of Things (IoT) yang terhubung dengan perangkat Android melalui aplikasi Blynk. Sistem ini terdiri dari empat sensor kualitas air, yaitu jumlah padatan terlarut, tingkat keasaman, tingkat amonia, dan besar suhu. Sistem ini dibuat agar kualitas air ikan koi selalu terpantau secara langsung lewat Android. Keuntungan menggunakan perangkat Android sebagai penampil sistem pemantauan adalah memudahkan pengguna untuk memantau kondisi air di lokasi manapun. Hasil dari sistem ini ditampilkan dalam bentuk pemantauan pada aplikasi Blynk dan pada liquid crystal display (LCD) 20×4, dengan notifikasi tentang ambang batas kualitas air. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa sensor memiliki akurasi sebesar 94,92% untuk jumlah padatan terlarut, 98,88% untuk tingkat keasaman, 90,49% untuk tingkat amonia, dan 98,77% untuk suhu, dengan waktu tunggu selama 5 menit untuk tampilan hasil pemantauan. Tingkat akurasi yang tinggi menunjukan alat ini dapat digunakan untuk melakukan pemantauan kualitas air budidaya ikan koi.Kata kunci: Blynk, ESP32, IoT, pemantauan, kualitas airAbstract - A research study on the design and development of a water quality monitoring system for koi fish farming has been conducted using the Internet of Things (IoT) based NodeMCU ESP32, connected to an Android device through the Blynk application. This system consists of four water quality sensors, namely dissolved solids, acidity level, ammonia level, and temperature. The purpose of this system is to ensure direct monitoring of the koi fish water quality through an Android device. The advantage of using an Android device as the monitoring interface is that it allows users to monitor the water conditions from any location. The system's results are displayed through the Blynk application and a 20x4 liquid crystal display (LCD) screen, with notifications indicating the threshold limits of water quality. The research findings indicate that the sensors have an accuracy of 94.92% for dissolved solids, 98.88% for acidity level, 90.49% for ammonia level, and 98.77% for temperature, with a waiting time of 5 minutes for the monitoring results to be displayed. The high level of accuracy demonstrates that this device can be used effectively for monitoring the water quality in koi fish farming.Keywords: Blynk, ESP32, IoT, monitoring, water quality
Kontrol Motor DC dengan Kendali Linear Quadratic Regulator dan Filter Kalman Menggunakan GUI MATLAB
Authors: Hudati Imroatul , Wijayakusuma Nurul Izzah , Ismail Aditya Yusuf , Barus Alfonzo Aruga Paripurna , Budianto Hendi
Published: June 2023

Abstract –  DC motor is one of the electronic devices that is used in the robotic, industry and sometime can be found in daily life.  DC motors usage is quite a lot, where the user is expected to be able monitor the speed or the position of the DC motor and be able to make adjustments. Noise is a part that cannot be ignored in controlling the motor DC speed. Numerous studies have been conducted. Previous research monitored the system response without considering the noise. The aims of this study are to implement the linear quadratic regulator (LQR) control and provide noise in the form of random number which will be filtered using a Kalman filter to reduce the noise and achieve a more stable system response. The provision of control and filter methods will be monitored by the user through an easy-to-understand display. The LQR control method will be given to DC motors in order to reduce the error between the output and input. LQR control use six variations of the Q index weighting will be given with an R value of 1. The most optimal Q result is [0.1 0 0; 0 0.1 0; 0 0 0.1] with a rise time is 2.20 seconds and a peak overshoot is 0.09 and the system response results are displayed. in the MATLAB GUI with the addition results after being given a Kalman filter.Keywords – DC motor, LQR, Kalman Filter, MATLAB GUIIntisari – Penggunaan Motor DC menjadi salah satu perangkat elektronik yang digunakan pada bidang robotika, industri bahkan banyak ditemui dalam kehidupan sehari – hari. Penggunaan motor DC yang cukup banyak, di mana user diharapkan dapat memantau kecepatan atau posisi motor DC dan dapat melakukan pemantauan terhadap noise yang terjadi pada sistem. Terdapat banyak penelitian yang telah dilakukan. Penelitian sebelumnya hanya memantau respons sistem tanpa memperhatikan noise yang dihasilkan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menerapkan kendali linear quadratic regulator (LQR) dan memberikan noise berupa random number yang kemudian diberi filter Kalman sehingga noise tersebut dapat dikurangi dan respon sistem menjadi lebih stabil. Pemberian metode kendali dan filter diharapkan dapat dipantau oleh user melalui sebuah tampilan yang mudah dipahami. Metode kendali LQR akan diberikan kepada motor DC untuk mengurangi besarnya kesalahan antara output terhadap input. Pada kendali LQR akan diberikan enam variasi pembobotan indeks Q dengan R bernilai 1 didapatkan hasil Q yang paling optimal ialah [0,1 0 0;0 0,1 0;0 0 0,1] dengan rise time sebesar 2,20 detik dan peak overshoot sebesar 0,09  dan hasil respons sistem ditampilkan pada GUI MATLAB dengan adanya penambahan hasil sistem setelah diberikan filter Kalman.Kata kunci – kecepatan motor DC, LQR, filter Kalman, GUI MATLAB
The Situation, Problems and Solutions in China’s Non-Profit Organizations’ Financial Management: The Case of China Foundation for Rural Development
Authors: Zhang Haitao
Published: June 2023

Non-Profit Organizations, as emerging organizations, effectively direct the flow of individual and organizational property to society and the disadvantaged, achieve effective redistribution of social wealth, and become an important force in promoting the vigorous development of public welfare in China. The effectiveness of NPOs depends to a large extent on Financial management, with particular emphasis on balance of payments and risk management. Using the case method, this paper analyzes the specific financial management cases of NPOs, discusses the current situation and existing problems, and puts forward solutions to improve efficiency.
НОВЫЕ МЕТАЛЛОКЕРАМИЧЕСКИЕ КОРПУСА КОМПАНИИ АО «ЗПП»
Authors: Шугаепов Ш. , Ермолаев Е. , Егошин В. , Лоскутова Л. , Сабирова Е.
Published: June 2023

Рассмотрены характеристики и особенности новых металлокерамических корпусов АО «Завод полупроводниковых приборов» (АО «ЗПП»). Отмечено, что по своим техническим характеристикам эти корпуса находятся на уровне лучших мировых достижений.
Experimental Investigation on Reactive Powder Concrete by Partial Replacement of Cement with Different Pozzolanic Materials
Authors: Rahul R. , Chithra Dr. R. , Thenmozhi Dr. R.
Published: June 2023

Abstract: Reactive powder concrete (RPC) is one of the ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC). In RPC the coarse aggregate is eliminated and the micro particles like silica fume, quartz powder and sand are utilized in the production process. The high cement content and low water to binder ratio in RPC lead to shrinkage problems. Hence in this study, an attempt is made to produce eco-friendly RPC by replacing cement with 3 different pozzolanic materials from industrial wastes such as Fly ash, GGBS and Granite powder. To assess the viability of partial replacement of cement by pozzolanic materials, nine mixes have been arrived with 10%, 20% and 30% replacements. The fresh concrete property such as slump and the compressive strength are determined for all the mixes. By comparing the strength property the suitable alternate replacement material and replacement percentage for cement in RPC is found out
ZENCÎR USÛLÜNDEKİ ESERLERİN GÜFTELERİ ÜZERİNE BİR İNCELEME: DÂRÜ’L ELHÂN KÜLLİYATI ÖRNEĞİ
Authors: KARAMAN Sibel , KÖROĞLU Nihat Ozan , KÖROĞLU Gamze Nevra
Published: June 2023

Türk mûsikîsinde yüz yirmi zamanlı bir usûl olan zencîr veya zincir olarak adlandırılan sözcük aynı zamanda divân şiiri güftelerinde kullanılmıştır. İskender Pala’ya (2009: 493) göre Divân şiirinde âşığın çektiği gam ile zincire benzetilen sevgilinin saçıdır. Çekilen sıkıntı, uzun olması ve sonunun gelmemesi ile ilgili olarak; sevgilinin zülfü ve saçı ise, şekli ve örgüsü nedeniyle zincire benzetilir şeklinde açıklanmıştır. (Karaman, Köroğlu, Köroğlu, Yılmaz, 2023: 286) Bu çalışmada, Dârü’l Elhân Külliyâtı’nda yer alan sözlü eserler taranmış, bu eserlerden hem zencîr usulünde bestelenen hem de güftesinde zencîr sözcüğünün geçtiği eserler örneklem kapsamına alınarak incelenmiştir. Bu incelemede, eserlerin aruz vezni durumları, taktî, arızalar, kâfiye ve redif özellikleri ile ayrı bir tabloda eserlerin güfteleri, güfte açıklamaları ve kelimelerin anlamları ayrıntılı bir şekilde gösterilmiştir. Buradan hareketle özellikle aynı zamanda bir usûl ismi olan “zencîr” sözcüğü özelinde birden fazla anlama gelen sözcük veya sözcükleri analiz etmek amaçlanmıştır. Çalışmada; üç adet eser örneklem kapsamına alınarak, aynı eserlerin farklı kişiler tarafından notaya alınan nüshaları incelenmiş ve güfte seçkileri karşılaştırılmıştır. Sonuç olarak çalışma kapsamındaki üç eserde; zencîr sözcüğünün usûlün adı olarak kullandığı, ancak sözcük anlamıyla kullanılmış olsa da usûlün adına atıfta bulunulduğu tespit edilmiştir.