bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vertebrobasilar and Basilar Dolichoectasia Causing Audio-Vestibular Manifestations: A Case Series with a Brief Literature Review
Authors: Frosolini Andrea , Fantin Francesco , Caragli Valeria , Franz Leonardo , Fermo Salvatore , Inches Ingrid , Lovato Andrea , Genovese Elisabetta , Marioni Gino , de Filippis Cosimo
Published: May 2023

Audio-vestibular symptoms can arise from vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia (VBD) and basilar dolichoectasia (BD). Given the dearth of available information, herein we reported our experience with different audio-vestibular disorders (AVDs) observed in a case series of VBD patients. Furthermore, a literature review analyzed the possible relationships between epidemiological, clinical, and neuroradiological findings and audiological prognosis. The electronic archive of our audiological tertiary referral center was screened. All identified patients had a diagnosis of VBD/BD according to Smoker’s criteria and a comprehensive audiological evaluation. PubMed and Scopus databases were searched for inherent papers published from 1 January 2000 to 1 March 2023. Three subjects were found; all of them had high blood pressure, and only the patient with high-grade VBD showed progressive sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). Seven original studies were retrieved from the literature, overall including 90 cases. AVDs were more common in males and present in late adulthood (mean age 65 years, range 37–71), with symptoms including progressive and sudden SNHL, tinnitus, and vertigo. Diagnosis was made using different audiological and vestibular tests and cerebral MRI. Management was hearing aid fitting and long-term follow-up, with only one case of microvascular decompression surgery. The mechanism by which VBD and BD can cause AVD is debated, with the main hypothesis being VIII cranial nerve compression and vascular impairment. Our reported cases suggested the possibility of central auditory dysfunction of retro-cochlear origin due to VBD, followed by rapidly progressing SNHL and/or unnoticed sudden SNHL. More research is needed to better understand this audiological entity and achieve an evidence-based effective treatment.
Artificial-Intelligence-Driven Algorithms for Predicting Response to Corticosteroid Treatment in Patients with Post-Acute COVID-19
Authors: Myska Vojtech , Genzor Samuel , Mezina Anzhelika , Burget Radim , Mizera Jan , Stybnar Michal , Kolarik Martin , Sova Milan , Dutta Malay Kishore
Published: May 2023

Pulmonary fibrosis is one of the most severe long-term consequences of COVID-19. Corticosteroid treatment increases the chances of recovery; unfortunately, it can also have side effects. Therefore, we aimed to develop prediction models for a personalized selection of patients benefiting from corticotherapy. The experiment utilized various algorithms, including Logistic Regression, k-NN, Decision Tree, XGBoost, Random Forest, SVM, MLP, AdaBoost, and LGBM. In addition easily human-interpretable model is presented. All algorithms were trained on a dataset consisting of a total of 281 patients. Every patient conducted an examination at the start and three months after the post-COVID treatment. The examination comprised a physical examination, blood tests, functional lung tests, and an assessment of health state based on X-ray and HRCT. The Decision tree algorithm achieved balanced accuracy (BA) of 73.52%, ROC-AUC of 74.69%, and 71.70% F1 score. Other algorithms achieving high accuracy included Random Forest (BA 70.00%, ROC-AUC 70.62%, 67.92% F1 score) and AdaBoost (BA 70.37%, ROC-AUC 63.58%, 70.18% F1 score). The experiments prove that information obtained during the initiation of the post-COVID-19 treatment can be used to predict whether the patient will benefit from corticotherapy. The presented predictive models can be used by clinicians to make personalized treatment decisions.
Energy Efficient Enhancement in a 5.8 GHz Batteryless Node Suitable for Backscattering Communications
Authors: Collodi Giovanni , Righini Monica , Passafiume Marco , Cidronali Alessandro
Published: May 2023

This work presents a compact batteryless node architecture suitable with the backscattering communication (BackCom) approach. The key functional blocks are demonstrated at 5.8 GHz, making use of commercially available components involving a DC/DC step-up converter, a 3.3 V data generator, and an ASK backscattering modulator based on a single GaAs HEMT in a cold-FET configuration. The node integrates a patch antenna exhibiting a non-50 Ω optimal port impedance; the value is defined by means of a source pull-based optimization technique aimed at maximizing the DC/DC input current supplied by the RF to DC converter. This approach maximizes the node compactness, as well as the wireless power conversion efficiency. A prototype was optimized for the −5 dBm power level at the input of the RF to DC converter. Under this measurement condition, the experimental results showed a 63% increase in the harvesting current, rising from 145 to 237 μA, compared to an identical configuration that used a microstrip matching network coupled with a typical 50-Ω patch antenna. In terms of harvested power, the achieved improvement was from −13.2 dBm to −10.9 dBm. The conversion efficiency in an operative condition improved from 15% to more than 25%. In this condition, the node is capable of charging a 100 μF to the operative voltage in about 27 s, and operating the backscattering for 360 ms with a backscattering modulation frequency of about 10 MHz.
Software Failure Log Analysis for Engineers—Review
Authors: Dobrowolski Wojciech , Nikodem Maciej , Unold Olgierd
Published: May 2023

The use of automated methods for log analysis is unavoidable in any large company; therefore, it has attracted attention from engineers and researchers. As a result, the number of articles in the field grows yearly and new approaches are frequently proposed. Unfortunately, published research works only sometimes meet the needs of engineers wishing to apply the methods in real-life systems. A common issue is that the method’s benefits often do not compensate for the effort required for its implementation and maintenance. Therefore, engineers must understand the pros and cons of full-scale applications, including the implementation details and the required effort. This work provides a comprehensive review of automated log analysis methods and aims to offer a guide for software engineers who fix integration and production failures. The article categorizes and provides an overview of existing methods and assesses their implementation and maintenance costs, as well as the feasibility of the methods. The article also identifies and describes the shortcomings of existing methods, including concept drift, which is not addressed with sufficient attention, as well as the lack of online benchmarks and the interpretation of the log sequence as a language, without an in-depth analysis of its properties. Despite growing efforts to provide feasible and widely adopted solutions, many reference implementations are unavailable. Consequently, the time and computation complexities differ between various implementations of the same approaches, making the results of research work difficult to replicate in real-life scenarios.
A Low-Voltage Class-D VCO with Implicit Common-Mode Resonator Implemented in 55 nm CMOS Technology
Authors: Xu Haotang , Yan Yuchen , Wang Yingxi , Zhang Qiliang , Li Zhongmao , Li Zhiqiang
Published: May 2023

This paper presents a Class-D voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) with a hybrid switch capacitor array. In order to reduce the phase noise of the oscillator, an implicit common-mode resonance technique is used, effectively suppressing the conversion of power supply noise to VCO phase noise. At the same time, due to the use of a transformer in implicit common-mode resonance technology, the core area of the oscillator is not significantly increased compared with the traditional Class-D VCO. Based on the proposed technology, the proposed VCO exhibits lower phase noise compared to the original Class-D VCO, and also has many different advantages compared to low-voltage VCOs produced by similar technological processes. The proposed VCO was designed in a 55 nm CMOS process. Simulation results show that this VCO has an operating range from 4.36 to 6.43 GHz, resulting in the frequency tuning range (FTR) of 38.5%. In addition, its power consumption was 3.46 mW, the phase noise at 4.36 GHz was −124.2 dBc/Hz@1 MHz, and the figure of merit (FoM) was −191.6 dBc/Hz@1 MHz. The core area is 0.15 mm2.
A Classification of Fitness Components in Elite Alpine Skiers: A Cluster Analysis
Authors: Penitente Gabriella , Young Hayden A. , Sands William A. , McNeal Jeni R.
Published: May 2023

The current study is an exploratory, secondary data analysis of a selection of physiological and biomechanical fitness components used to assess elite alpine skiers. The present study will provide new knowledge that can be used to aid training prescription and talent identification. A hierarchical cluster analysis was used to identify groups of variables that are crucial for elite alpine skiers and differences based on sex and competition level. The key findings of the study are the patterns that emerged in the generated dendrograms. Physiological and biomechanical fitness components are differentiated in the dendrograms of male and female world-cup-level alpine skiers, but not in non-world-cup athletes. Components related to the aerobic and anaerobic capacity tightly cluster in male athletes at world cup and non-world-cup level, and female world cup athletes. Lower body explosive force production appears to be more critical in male world cup athletes than female world cup athletes. More research is needed into the importance of isometric strength in the lower body. Future research should use larger sample sizes and consider other alpine ski demographics.
Treatments for Staple Line Leakage after Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
Authors: Oshiro Takashi , Wakamatsu Kotaro , Nabekura Taiki , Moriyama Yuki , Kitahara Natsumi , Kadoya Kengo , Sato Ayami , Kitahara Tomoaki , Urita Tasuku , Sato Yu , Nagashima Makoto , Tsuchiya Masaru , Okazumi Shinichi
Published: May 2023

The number of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomies (LSGs) performed in patients with obesity who are eligible for bariatric and metabolic surgery is currently much lower in Japan than in other countries. Considering the large number of potential patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes and the unique Japanese national health insurance system that guarantees fair healthcare delivery, there is room to increase the number of LSGs in Japan in the near future. However, strict health insurance regulations may limit access to mandatory devices needed to treat postoperative complications, such as staple line leakage, which can cause severe morbidity and even mortality. Therefore, understanding the pathogenesis and treatment options for this complication is crucial. This article examined the current situation in Japan and its impact on staple line leakage management, including the role of endoscopic treatment in reducing reoperation. The authors suggest increasing education and collaboration between healthcare professionals to optimize management and improve patient outcomes.
Celecoxib for Mood Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Gędek Adam , Szular Zofia , Antosik Anna Z. , Mierzejewski Paweł , Dominiak Monika
Published: May 2023

The effects of celecoxib on a broad spectrum of mood disorders and on inflammatory parameters have not yet been comprehensively evaluated. The aim of this study was to systematically summarize the available knowledge on this topic. Data from both preclinical and clinical studies were analyzed, considering the efficacy and safety of celecoxib in the treatment of mood disorders, as well as the correlation of inflammatory parameters with the effect of celecoxib treatment. Forty-four studies were included. We found evidence supporting the antidepressant efficacy of celecoxib in a dose of 400 mg/day used for 6 weeks as an add-on treatment in major depression (SMD = −1.12 [95%Cl: −1.71,−0.52], p = 0.0002) and mania (SMD = −0.82 [95% CI:−1.62,−0.01], p = 0.05). The antidepressant efficacy of celecoxib in the above dosage used as sole treatment was also confirmed in depressed patients with somatic comorbidity (SMD = −1.35 [95% CI:−1.95,−0.75], p < 0.0001). We found no conclusive evidence for the effectiveness of celecoxib in bipolar depression. Celecoxib at a dose of 400 mg/d used for up to 12 weeks appeared to be a safe treatment in patients with mood disorders. Although an association between celecoxib response and inflammatory parameters has been found in preclinical studies, this has not been confirmed in clinical trials. Further studies are needed to evaluate the efficacy of celecoxib in bipolar depression, as well as long-term studies evaluating the safety and efficacy of celecoxib in recurrent mood disorders, studies involving treatment-resistant populations, and assessing the association of celecoxib treatment with inflammatory markers.
Diabetes Mellitus in Patients Undergoing Mitral Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair—A Decade Experience in 1000+ Patients
Authors: Paukovitsch Michael , Felbel Dominik , Groeger Matthias , Rottbauer Wolfgang , Markovic Sinisa , Tadic Marijana , Schneider Leonhard Moritz , Keßler Mirjam
Published: May 2023

Background: Diabetes mellitus worsens outcomes in patients suffering from heart disease undergoing cardiac procedures. Objectives: To investigate the impact of diabetes in patients undergoing mitral transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (M-TEER). Methods: 1118 patients treated with M-TEER for functional (FMR) and degenerative (DMR) mitral regurgitation (MR) between 2010 and 2021 were analyzed using the combined endpoint of death/rehospitalization for heart failure (HFH). Results: Among diabetics (N = 306; 27.4%), comorbidities such as coronary artery disease (75.2% vs. 62.7%; p < 0.001) and progressed (stage III/IV) chronic kidney disease (79.5% vs. 72.6%; p = 0.018) were more frequent. The rate of FMR was higher in diabetics (71.9% vs. 64.5%; p < 0.001). The combined endpoint occurred more frequently in diabetics (40.2% vs. 35.6%; log-rank = 0.035). While no difference was observed in FMR patients (36.8% vs. 37.6%; log-rank p = 0.710), rates of the combined endpoint differed significantly between diabetics and non-diabetics in DMR patients (48.8% vs. 31.9%; log-rank p = 0.001) only. However, diabetes did neither predict the combined endpoint in the overall (OR: 0.97; 95% CI 0.65–1.45; p = 0.890) nor in the DMR cohort (OR: 0.73; 95% CI 0.35–1.51; p = 0.389). Among diabetics treated with M-TEER, troponin (OR: 2.32; 95% CI 1.3–3.7; p = 0.002) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (OR: 0.52; 95% CI 0.3–0.88; p = 0.018) independently predicted the combined endpoint. Conclusions: Diabetes is associated with adverse outcomes after M-TEER, particularly in DMR patients. However, diabetes does not predict the combined endpoint. In diabetics undergoing M-TEER, biochemical markers associated with organ function and damage independently predict the combined endpoint of death and rehospitalization.
ADONHERS (Aged DONor HEart Rescue by Stress Echo) National Protocol: Recipient’s Survival after 10-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Mandoli Giulia , Barilli Maria , Soviero Davide , Ghionzoli Nicolò , Landra Federico , Maccherini Massimo , Bernazzali Sonia , Natali Benedetta , Focardi Marta , Cavigli Luna , D’Ascenzi Flavio , Pastore Maria , Sciaccaluga Carlotta , Bombardini Tonino , Valente Serafina , Cameli Matteo
Published: May 2023

Background: The gold-standard treatment for end-stage heart failure is heart transplantation, but the lack of organ donors remains an important limitation in this field. An accurate selection of marginal hearts is fundamental to increase organ availability. Purpose: In our study we analyzed if recipients receiving marginal donor (MD) hearts, selected by dipyridamole stress echocardiography according to the ADOHERS national protocol, had different outcomes compared to recipients with acceptable donor (AD) hearts. Methods: Data were collected and retrospectively analyzed from patients who received an orthotopic heart transplant at our institution between 2006 and 2014. Dipyridamole stress echo was performed on identified marginal donors and selected hearts were eventually transplanted. Clinical, laboratory and instrumental features of the recipients were evaluated and patients with homogenous baseline characteristics were selected. Results: Eleven recipients transplanted with a selected marginal heart and eleven recipients transplanted with an acceptable heart were included. Mean donor age was 41 ± 23. The median follow-up was 113 months (IQR 86–146 months). Age, cardiovascular risk and morpho-functional characteristics of the left ventricle were comparable between the two populations (p > 0.05). Left atrial size was significantly higher in patients with marginal hearts (acceptable atrial volume: 23 ± 5 mL; marginal atrial volume: 38 ± 5 mL; p = 0.003). Acceptable donor recipients showed a higher impact of Cardiac Allograph Vasculopathy (p = 0.019). No rejection differences were found between the two groups. Four patients deceased, three were standard donor recipients and one was from the marginal donor group. Conclusions: Our study shows how cardiac transplant (Htx) from selected marginal donor hearts through a non-invasive bedside technique can alleviate the shortage of organs without a difference in survival compared to acceptable donor hearts.
The Controversial Definition of Normal Toe Alignment
Authors: Schippers Philipp , Drees Philipp , Gercek Erol , Wunderlich Felix , Müller Daniel , Ruckes Christian , Meyer Alexander , Klein Stefan , Fischer Sebastian
Published: May 2023

“Normal” and “abnormal” are frequently used in surgical planning and to evaluate surgical results of the forefoot. However, there is no objectifiable value of metatarsophalangeal angles (MTPAs) 2–5 in the dorsoplantar (DP) view with which to objectively evaluate lesser toe alignment. We aimed to determine which angles are considered to be “normal” by orthopedic surgeons and radiologists. Thirty anonymized radiographs of feet were submitted twice in randomized order to determine the respective MTPAs 2–5. After six weeks, the anonymized radiographs and photographs of the same feet without apparent affiliation were presented again. The terms “normal,” “borderline normal,” and “abnormal” were assigned by the observers. Viewers considered MTP-2 alignment from 0° to −20° to be normal, and below −30° abnormal; MTP-3, 0° to −15° to be normal and below −30° abnormal; MTP-4, 0° to −10° normal and below −20° abnormal. Between 5° valgus and 15° varus was the range of MTP-5 recognized as normal. High intra-observer but low interobserver reliability with overall low correlation of clinical and radiographic aspects was observed. The assessment of the terms “normal” or “abnormal” are subject to a high degree of variation. Therefore, these terms should be used cautiously.
Predictive Attributes for Developing Long COVID—A Study Using Machine Learning and Real-World Data from Primary Care Physicians in Germany
Authors: Kessler Roman , Philipp Jos , Wilfer Joanna , Kostev Karel
Published: May 2023

(1) In the present study, we used data comprising patient medical histories from a panel of primary care practices in Germany to predict post-COVID-19 conditions in patients after COVID-19 diagnosis and to evaluate the relevant factors associated with these conditions using machine learning methods. (2) Methods: Data retrieved from the IQVIATM Disease Analyzer database were used. Patients with at least one COVID-19 diagnosis between January 2020 and July 2022 were selected for inclusion in the study. Age, sex, and the complete history of diagnoses and prescription data before COVID-19 infection at the respective primary care practice were extracted for each patient. A gradient boosting classifier (LGBM) was deployed. The prepared design matrix was randomly divided into train (80%) and test data (20%). After optimizing the hyperparameters of the LGBM classifier by maximizing the F2 score, model performance was evaluated using several test metrics. We calculated SHAP values to evaluate the importance of the individual features, but more importantly, to evaluate the direction of influence of each feature in our dataset, i.e., whether it is positively or negatively associated with a diagnosis of long COVID. (3) Results: In both the train and test data sets, the model showed a high recall (sensitivity) of 81% and 72% and a high specificity of 80% and 80%; this was offset, however, by a moderate precision of 8% and 7% and an F2-score of 0.28 and 0.25. The most common predictive features identified using SHAP included COVID-19 variant, physician practice, age, distinct number of diagnoses and therapies, sick days ratio, sex, vaccination rate, somatoform disorders, migraine, back pain, asthma, malaise and fatigue, as well as cough preparations. (4) Conclusions: The present exploratory study describes an initial investigation of the prediction of potential features increasing the risk of developing long COVID after COVID-19 infection by using the patient history from electronic medical records before COVID-19 infection in primary care practices in Germany using machine learning. Notably, we identified several predictive features for the development of long COVID in patient demographics and their medical histories.
Distance-Independent Background Light Estimation Method
Authors: Yu Aidi , Wang Yujia , Zhou Sixing
Published: May 2023

A distance-independent background light estimation method is proposed for underwater overhead images. The method addresses the challenge of the absence of the farthest point in underwater overhead images by adopting a global perspective to select the optimal solution and estimate the background light by minimizing the loss function. Moreover, to enhance the information retention in the images, a translation function is employed to adjust the transmission map values within the range of [0.1, 0.95]. Additionally, the method capitalizes on the redundancy of image information and the similarity of adjacent frames, resulting in higher computational efficiency. The comparative experimental results show that the proposed method has better restoration performance on underwater images in various scenarios, especially in handling color bias and preserving information.
Clinical Application of Circular RNAs as Biomarkers in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Siracusa Chiara , Vono Niccolò , Morano Maria Benedetta , Sabatino Jolanda , Leo Isabella , Eyileten Ceren , Cianflone Eleonora , Postula Marek , Torella Daniele , De Rosa Salvatore
Published: May 2023

Despite the substantial improvement in diagnosis and treatment within the last decades, ischemic stroke still represents a challenge, responsible still for a high burden of morbidity and mortality. Among the unmet clinical needs are the difficulties in identifying those subjects with the greatest risk of developing a stroke, the challenges in obtaining a timely diagnosis, the prompt recognition of the different clinical forms of stroke, the assessment of the response to treatments and the prognostic assessment. All these issues might be improved with appropriate smart biomarkers that could better inform clinical management. The present article offers an overview of the potential role of circular RNAs as disease biomarkers in stroke. A systematic approach was adopted to gather all potentially relevant information in order to provide a panoramic view on this class of promising molecules.
Comparative Evaluation of Sildenafil Citrate and Estrogen as an Adjuvant Therapy for Treatment of Unexplained Infertility in Women
Authors: Altyar Ahmed E. , Boshra Marian S. , Abou Warda Ahmed Essam , Shawkey Sherwet M. , Abdallah Mohamed Salem Sara , Sarhan Rania M. , Sarhan Neven
Published: May 2023

Background: Uterine blood flow determines endometrial thickness. This study examined how vaginal sildenafil citrate and estradiol valerate altered endometrial thickness, blood flow, and fertility in infertile women. Methods: This study observed 148 infertile women whose infertility was unexplained. Group 1 comprised 48 patients who received oral estradiol valerate (Cyclo-Progynova 2 mg/12 h white tablets) from day 6 till ovulation was initiated with clomiphene citrate. A number of 50 participants in group 2 received oral sildenafil (Respatio 20 mg/12 h film-coated tablets) for 5 days starting the day after their previous menstrual period and finishing on the day they ovulated with clomiphene citrate. Group 3 was the control group, with 50 patients receiving clomiphene citrate (Technovula 50 mg/12 h tablets) ovulation induction from the 2nd to 7th day of cycle. All patients had transvaginal ultrasounds to determine ovulation, follicle count, and fertility. Miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, and multiple pregnancies were monitored for three months. Results: The three groups’ mean ETs differed statistically at p = 0.0004. A statistically significant difference was found between the three groups in terms of the number of follicles, with 69% of patients in group 1 having one and 31% having two or more, 76% of patients in group 2 having one and 24% having two or more, and 90% of patients in the control group having one and 10% having two or more (p = 0.038). The clinical pregnancy rates of the three groups were 58%, 46%, and 27%, respectively (p = 0.005). The distribution of all side effects was not statistically different between the three groups. Conclusion: It is possible to claim that adding oral estrogen to clomiphene citrate therapy as an adjuvant therapy can improve endometrial thickness and, as a result, increase the pregnancy rates in unexplained infertility compared to sildenafil, especially in cases where the infertility has lasted less than two years. Most people who take sildenafil end up with a mild headache.
Reliability and Responsiveness of a Novel Device to Evaluate Tongue Force
Authors: Diaz-Saez Marta Carlota , Gil-Martínez Alfonso , Gadotti Inae Caroline , Navarro-Fernández Gonzalo , Gil-Castillo Javier , Beltran-Alacreu Hector
Published: May 2023

Background: Measurements of tongue force are important in clinical practice during both the diagnostic process and rehabilitation progress. It has been shown that patients with chronic temporomandibular disorders have less tongue strength than asymptomatic subjects. Currently, there are few devices to measure tongue force on the market, with different limitations. That is why a new device has been developed to overcome them. The objectives of the study were to determine the intra- and inter-rater reliability and the responsiveness of a new low-cost device to evaluate tongue force in an asymptomatic population. Materials and Methods: Two examiners assessed the maximal tongue force in 26 asymptomatic subjects using a developed prototype of an Arduino device. Each examiner performed a total of eight measurements of tongue force in each subject. Each tongue direction was measured twice (elevation, depression, right lateralization, and left lateralization) in order to test the intrarater reliability. Results: The intrarater reliability using the new device was excellent for the measurements of the tongue force for up (ICC > 0.94), down (ICC > 0.93) and right (ICC > 0.92) movements, and good for the left movement (ICC > 0.82). The SEM and MDC values were below 0.98 and 2.30, respectively, for the intrarater reliability analysis. Regarding the inter-rater reliability, the ICC was excellent for measuring the tongue up movements (ICC = 0.94), and good for all the others (down ICC = 0.83; right ICC = 0.87; and left ICC = 0.81). The SEM and MDC values were below 1.29 and 3.01, respectively, for the inter-rater reliability. Conclusions: This study showed a good-to-excellent intra- and inter-reliability and good responsiveness in the new device to measure different directions of tongue force in an asymptomatic population. This could be a new, more accessible tool to consider and add to the assessment and treatment of different clinical conditions in which a deficit in tongue force could be found.
Numerical Simulation of the Flow Field in an Ultrahigh-Speed Continuous Casting Billet Mold
Authors: Qiu Dejin , Zhang Zhaohui , Li Xintao , Lv Ming , Mi Xiaoyu , Xi Xiaofeng
Published: May 2023

Ultrahigh-speed continuous casting is a critical element in achieving high-efficiency continuous casting. In the present work, a three-dimensional model of a 160 mm × 160 mm billet ultrahigh-speed continuous casting mold was developed for use in studying the influences of different casting parameters on molten steel flow. The results showed that the flow pattern in the mold was not associated with its casting speeds, submerged entry nozzle (SEN) immersion depths, or inner diameters. Variation in casting speeds significantly affected the liquid level of the steel–slag interface. Its liquid level fluctuation was reasonable at an SEN immersion depth of 80 mm. Its impact depth reached the shallowest point, which was conducive to upward movement within high-velocity and high-temperature regions, and accelerated the floating of non-metallic inclusions. Expanding the inner diameter of the SEN could effectively weaken the initial kinetic energy of the jet. However, it may cause a deeper impact depth and a degree of upward movement in the raceway, which exhibited the shallowest impact depth in the jet and the most reasonable behavior of molten steel at a liquid level for which the inner diameter of the SEN was 40 mm.
Static Aerated Composting of African Swine Fever Virus-Infected Swine Carcasses with Rice Hulls and Sawdust
Authors: Hutchinson Mark , Duc Hoang Minh , Flory Gary A. , Ngan Pham Hong , Son Hoang Minh , Hoa Tran Thi Khanh , Lan Nguyen Thi , Rozeboom Dale W. , Remmenga Marta D. , Vuolo Matthew , Miknis Robert , Miller Lori P. , Burns Amira , Flory Renée
Published: May 2023

Identifying and ensuring the inactivation of the African Swine Fever virus in deadstock is a gap in the swine industry’s knowledge and response capabilities. The results of our study demonstrate that ASFv in deadstock was inactivated using static aerated composting as the carcass disposal method. Replicated compost piles with whole market hogs and two different carbon sources were constructed. In-situ bags containing ASFv-infected spleen tissue were placed alongside each of the carcasses and throughout the pile. The bags were extracted at days 0, 1, 3, 7, 14, 28, 56, and 144 for ASFv detection and isolation. Real-time PCR results showed that DNA of ASFv was detected in all samples tested on day 28. The virus concentration identified through virus isolation was found to be below the detection limit by day 3 in rice hulls and by day 7 in sawdust. Given the slope of the decay, near-zero concentration with 99.9% confidence occurred at 5.0 days in rice hulls and at 6.4 days in sawdust. Additionally, the result of virus isolation also showed that the virus in bone marrow samples collected at 28 days was inactivated.
A legibilidade influencia no impacto de websites sobre adenotonsilectomia aos pais?
Authors: Corrêa Camila de Castro , Marciano Julia Vicente , Piña Sofia Prata , Weber Silke Anna Theresa
Published: May 2023

Objetivo. Avaliar a percepção de pais da qualidade e dos conteúdos de websites sobre adenotonsilectomia, que se diferem na legibilidade. Método. 25 pais de filhos em rotina pré cirúrgica de adenotonsilectomia foram divididos em dois grupos, de modo randomizado: Grupo Web-A (acessaram um website de legibilidade muito difícil, n=12) e Grupo Web-B (legibilidade padrão, n=13). Preencheram as avaliações de qualidade dos websites e do Critério de Classificação Econômica Brasil. Resultados. Os dois grupos tiveram bons reconhecimento dos conteúdos com mais de 75%. Houve correlação negativa do nível socioeconômico B com mais reconhecimento dos conteúdos, sobre as orientações do pós-operatório (r=-0,446, p=0,026). Conclusão. A população leiga não diferenciou a qualidade dos websites ou as informações trazidas, mediante à diferença da legibilidade. O estudo apontou possível interferência do nível socioeconômico nas informações sobre adenotonsilectomia após acesso à conteúdos em websites.
Coreia oromandibular como manifestação inicial de Doença de Huntington juvenil
Authors: Pereira Sarmento Filipe , Lopes Braga Vinicius , Almeida Fraiman Pedro Henrique , Andrade Rocha Flavia , De Melo Aragão Marcelo , Silva Pinho Ricardo , Masruha Rodrigues Marcelo
Published: May 2023

Objetivo. Apresentação da Doença de Huntington Juvenil com coreia oromandibular como manifestação inicial. Método. Relato de caso e breve revisão da literatura. Resultados. Apesar do fenótipo variante clássico de Westphal sem distúrbios do movimento hipercinético na doença de Huntington juvenil, alguns pacientes podem apresentar coreia como apresentação inicial da JHD. Conclusões. A fenomenologia hipercinética não descarta JHD no contexto de achados sugestivos de neuroimagem e história familiar de HD, apesar da clássica apresentação rígida-acinética da variante Westphal.
Women's Empowerment in Nike Advertisements: A Multimodal Analysis
Authors: Adrian Diaz , Faiza Ema
Published: May 2023

Aside from promoting certain products, advertisements are also utilized to promote social issues. One of the social issues promoted is women’s empowerment. This type of advertisement, which promotes women’s empowerment, is named as femvertising. In promoting this issue in a video advertisement, the combination of verbal modes and non-verbal modes are used to convey the message. The study examines two recent advertisements by Nike to reveal the message of women’s empowerment. The study used multimodal discourse analysis to examine the advertisements which were in the form of moving images, as it tried to uncover the modes present in both advertisements, and how those modes construct the discourse of women’s empowerment delivered by the narrators of both advertisements. In exploring the visual modes, Kress and van Leeuwen’s framework of visual grammar, which included representational meaning, interactive meaning, and compositional meaning, was used. The verbal analysis was explored using Hallidayan three layers of metafunction, which included the analysis of transitivity, mood structure, and theme-rheme. The study revealed that the interplay of all the modes that were analyzed put women to be doing sporting activities in sports-related settings, to possess more power than the viewers, as the most salient elements, and to be narrated with encouraging utterances in both advertisements.
Suggested Syllabus of English I for First Semester students of Islamic Education Department at STAI Al-Gazali Soppeng
Authors: Susiyanti Susiyanti , Jubhari Ria , Kaharuddin Andi
Published: May 2023

This study investigates the needs of English I for first-semester students at the Islamic Education Department and suggests an English I syllabus based on needs analysis for Islamic Education Department at STAI Al-GAzali Soppeng. This study employed a development research design and simple random and purposive sampling data from 50 students, five graduates, two lecturers, and one curriculum coordinator. The instruments for this study were questionnaires and interviews. The data were gathered through questionnaires by implementing Scala-Likert and were descriptively analyzed. The result shows that (1) students’ ability to learn English I is “poor” in pronunciation. (2) Students’ problems are complex in an oral presentation on learning speaking skills, difficult to understand native speakers on learning the listening skills, difficult to guess the core meaning of the text on learning reading skills, and difficult to compose correct sentences on learning writing. (3) Students prioritize learning preference, preferred topic, and learning style. Dialogue is speaking learning preference. The translation is reading learning preferences, learning from the rules of authorship is writing learning preferences, and listening and practising are listening learning preferences. The preferred topic is Islamic education and the discussion on learning style.
Psychological Analysis of Landscape Linguistics in Public Spaces in Buru Island
Authors: Yulismayanti Yulismayanti , Iye Risman , Susiati Susiati , Harziko Harziko , Taufik Taufik , Inda Nur Abida Fithriyah
Published: May 2023

Landscape Linguistics is a study that focuses on the use of language in public spaces, both monolingual, bilingual and multilingual. The purpose of this study is to analyze the linguistic psychology of landscapes in public spaces on Buru Island. The research method used is qualitative. In this study, researchers took sources from the nameplate or baleho found on Buru Island, precisely in Namlea Village. The data sources are several photos in public places on Buru Island. Analysis of research data, namely when researchers collect the results of information board documentation scattered on Buru Island, all of the documentation is classified according to their respective characteristics, namely, signboards, billboards and other information. Then the meaning and function are determined by using Landscape linguistic studies. The results of the study found that in the public space of the Buru Island community there were two variations of the language used, namely Indonesian and the Maluku dialect, as well as the Landscape function, namely Formal and Informal
The Tradition of Paying Dowry: A Case of Biak Wardo Tribe in Ayau Islands, Raja Ampat
Authors: Purwanti Nanik , Mardliyah Uswatul , Yapen Yonas
Published: May 2023

Indonesia has a diversity of religions and cultures therefore when we talk about marriage that is framed in a relationship with God and tradition or customary positive law, it is certain that each region has differences in the implementation which is unique. Culture is something that can be used as a unique and distinctive identity for an area. Indonesia has many kinds of culture and traditions. These traditions are usually used as a rule or pattern of life of the community in everyday life. One of them is marriage, one of the important elements in marriage is the payment of a dowry. Marriage processions have procedures that vary according to tradition in society, and each culture has a way of interpreting the dowry itself. This is the case with the marriage customs of the Biak Wardo Tribe in the Ayau Islands District. This study aims to determine the dowry payment tradition of the Biak Wardo Tribe in the Ayau Archipelago District, Raja Ampat Regency, and to find out the obstacles faced in the Biak Wardo Tribal dowry payment tradition in the district. Ayau Islands, Raja Ampat Regency. The method used in this study used qualitative methods and analyzed descriptively qualitatively. This study also uses the discipline approach of Anthropology and Sociology. Data Collection Techniques with Observation, Interviews, and Documentation, Data Analysis Techniques. The results of this study indicate that the tradition of paying the dowry of the Biak Wardo tribe, Ayau islands, Raja Ampat district is divided into three parts, namely Sanepen, Ararem and Anum. The obstacle that often occurs is the addition of dowry payments from the woman's family so that the man must pay it on the same day while the extra requested is not given in the agreed note, it is often troublesome for the man's family but the man must still pay it on that day also so that the payment of the dowry is considered legal.
The Ability of 1st Class Students of SMAN 11 Enrekang to Arrange Verbal and Nominal Sentences
Authors: Hasnia Hasnia , Andini Citra , Tahir M Dalyan , Hunaeni Hunaeni , Zulfikariandi Zulfikariandi , MT Muslimin
Published: May 2023

This research aims to reveal the ability of 1st graders of SMAN 11 Enrekang in compiling verbal and nominal sentences using the simple present tense and the difficulties that occur when compiling verbal and nominal sentences using the simple present tense. The researcher used quantitative method by applying the Surface Strategy Taxonomy in analyzing the data. The results of this research indicating that there are four types of errors. The frequency and percentage based on the surface strategy taxonomy are 63.59% misformation, then 16.18% addition, 13.88% omission, and 6.35% misordering. Furthermore, there are three difficulties experienced by students in compiling verbal and nominal sentences using the simple present tense, 1) Students do not understand the grammatical system; 2) students just write down what comes to mind without following the grammar; and 3) students do not understand vocabulary. The teachers recommend practicing grammar rules, in the simple present tense for mistakes. In addition, other researchers can provide techniques to improve students' mastery of the simple present tense
O racismo ambiental na Volta Grande do Xingu: marcador da etnia Yudjá/Juruna
Authors: Nogueira Bruna Vitoria Nascimento , Nogueira Gabriel Pitanga de Sousa , Silva Paulo Roberto Nogueira
Published: May 2023

Este estudo busca compreender como os índios Yudjá/Juruna sofreram o racismo ambiental ocorrido na Volta Grande do Xingu com a construção da hidrelétrica de Belo Monte. Foram retirados de seu território, de onde exerciam atividades na pesca e na agricultura, provendo seu sustento e que tinham um sentimento de pertença com seu lugar de origem. Utilizamos a metodologia bibliográfica para dar o aporte na construção da escrita do trabalho de pesquisa. Autores como Gil (2002) mostram que a principal vantagem da pesquisa bibliográfica reside no fato de permitir ao investigador a cobertura de uma gama de fenômenos muito mais ampla do que aquela que poderia pesquisar diretamente. Nesse viés, analisamos a identidade dos índios Yudjá/Juruna que viviam em suas terras, onde criaram suas raízes e o pertencimento ancestral na comunidade. Trata-se de uma pesquisa social, qualitativa, de abordagem bibliográfica que põe em evidencia o racismo ambiental sofrido pela etnia Yudjá/Juruna.
TEORI AGENCY DALAM PERSEPEKTIF SOSIAL BUDAYA
Authors: Kamelia Ibna , Fitriya Elok
Published: May 2023

Agency tehory assumes that the principal and agent have different purposes, concerned with their utility and have different risk preferences. This study assumes that cultural diffrences will give a different color in the agency theory. Culture can align objectives between principle and agent, change their risk preferences and reduce opportunistic actions. Based on these arguments will be deve;oped some proporsitions which are expected to be tested empirically.

Keywords : Agency Theory, Culture, Behavior
PENGARUH KONSERVATISME AKUNTANSI, PERTUMBUHAN PENJUALAN DAN TATA KELOLA PERUSAHAAN TERHADAP TAX AVOIDANCE
Authors: Ismanto Juli
Published: May 2023

This study aims to determine the effect of accounting conservatism, sales growth, and corporate governance on tax avoidance. Secondary data is sourced from the financial statements of companies included in the Consumer Non-Cyclicals index company in the Food & Beverage sub-sector listed on the IDX during the 2017-2021 period. The number of samples used was 22 companies as research objects for five years. Panel data regression analysis is used as a mechanism in this study. The results showed that accounting conservatism has a significant effect on tax avoidance. On the other hand, sales growth and corporate governance do not significantly affect tax avoidance. Therefore, it is indicated that accounting conservatism can indirectly affect tax avoidance by reducing corporate profits and producing more cautious financial statements.

Keywords: Accounting Conservatism, Good Corporate Governance, Sales Growth, Tax Avoidance.
Adapting a Mars ISRU System to the Changing Mars Environment
Authors: Rapp Donald , Hinterman Eric
Published: May 2023

This study modeled the performance of a full-scale Mars in situ resource utilization (ISRU) system to produce 30 metric tons of liquid O
2
, operated for 14 months at half-hourly intervals as the Mars environment changes diurnally and seasonally. We considered various control options, with particular emphasis on power requirements and required cell voltages. Mars temperature and pressure data at half-hour intervals were obtained from the Mars Perseverance team. The full-scale Mars ISRU system included a mechanical compressor, high-temperature electrolysis of Martian CO
2
, and a liquefier to produce liquid oxygen. The key factors were (a) maintaining cell voltage well below the Nernst potential for carbon formation from CO and (b) tracking the maximum power, as well as the range of power required, at each half-hourly junction across the 14-month run for each control option. The most favorable control option involved adjusting the compressor revolutions per minute at each half-hour to produce a quasi-steady state of oxygen production in the electrolysis and the liquefaction systems, resulting in the most benign electrolysis settings, the lowest maximum power, and the narrowest range of required power. Other approaches where the compressor was run at a steady state and the oxygen production rate varied with time led to higher electrolysis voltage, higher maximum power, and a wider range of power. This study provides guidance on the optimum operating conditions and power requirements of a Mars ISRU system to produce 30 metric tons of liquid oxygen in 14 months of operation.
Cicloide e Parábola Semicúbica: Curvas Evolutas como soluções de Problemas de Dinâmica
Authors: De Almeida Dulce Mary , Silva de Castro Matheus Gonçalves
Published: May 2023

O presente artigo procura estabelecer um elo entre algumas curvas diferenciáveis e alguns problemas físicos de dinâmica, isto é, questões sobre o movimento de partículas e de corpos sujeitos a forças com causas conhecidas. No processo, foram estudados: algumas propriedades da cicloide e o seu uso na construção do denominado pêndulo de Huygens; uma característica geométrica da parábola semicúbica, a qual é evoluta da parábola, e uma propriedade dinâmica atrelada a essa mesma curva. Para tanto, empregou-se recursos próprios da geometria diferencial de curvas e, em acréscimo, apresentou-se interpretações físicas e/ou intuitivas acerca de alguns dos conceitos geométricos explorados no texto.
APPLICATION OF THE QUASI-NEWTON IN INTERIOR POINT METHODS FOR SOLVING THE PREDISPATCH PROBLEM
Authors: Simões de Carvalho Silvia Maria , Ribeiro Leite de Oliveira Aurelio
Published: May 2023

Brazilian energy matrix is essentially based on hydroelectricity with long transmission lines, allowing the exchange of energy produced in all regions of the country, the increased demand for energy and the search for lower costs, the application of more efficient and robust methods to minimize generation and transmission losses is necessary, since these are functions of generated and transmitted power, respectively. The purpose of this work is to implement primal dual interior point method for the predispatchof a hydroelectric system, with partial replacement of the Newton method with the quasi-Newton method in order to compute the system Jacobian matrix and reduce the computational costs of the iterations arising from approximations of the inverses of the Hessian matrix. This means that, in order to obtain a search direction, only a matrix vector product is necessary, which is much more efficient, for example, than the Newton method, in which a linear system has to be solved at each iteration. Computational results prove the efficiency of the approach used.