bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-Newtonian nanofluid flow across an exponentially stretching sheet with viscous dissipation: Numerical study using a SCM based on Appell-Changhee polynomials
Authors: Khader M. M. , Babatin M. M. , Megahed Ahmed M.
Published: April 2023

The purpose of this research is to examine the effects of heat generation, viscous dissipation, and magnetic field on the characteristics of non-Newtonian Williamson nanofluid flow caused by an exponential stretching sheet implanted in a porous media. The process of heat transfer is examined while taking into account how the temperature affects the thermal conductivity as well as the viscosity of the Williamson nanofluids. Also, the analysis of their flow performances under the influence of slip velocity was the study’s main contribution. Using the spectral collocation technique (SCM), the equations that describe the current problem are transformed into a collection of ordinary differential equations and then solved. The spectral collocation method (SCM) proposed here basically depends on the properties of the Appell-type Changhee polynomials (ACPs). First, with the aid of ACPs, we develop an approximate derivative formula. Through this procedure, the provided model is transformed into a nonlinear set of algebraic equations. Physical factors of interest, such as skin friction, the Nusselt number, and the Sherwood number, are explained using tabular expressions. Data are displayed as graphs for the nanofluid’s velocity, temperature, and concentration. The primary findings showed that, increasing the Williamson, the magnetic, thermal conductivity and Brownian parameters significantly improves the thermal field. Finally, testing the suggested method with specific cases from some past literature-based publications reveals a good degree of agreement.
Crystallization, Morphology, Optical Properties, Tear Properties and Antibacterial Properties of Nano Zinc Oxide Composites
Authors: Wang Ying , Liu Li-zhi , Tian Chengcheng , Wang Yuanxia , Song Lixin , shi ying
Published: April 2023

Nanometer Zinc oxide (nano ZnO) composites are widely used in the packaging industry due to their excellent antibacterial properties. In this study, low-doped (0.2%) and high-antibacterial (99.9%, R = 6.9) nano ZnO composites with different matrices were prepared using a masterbatch blending method. To investigate the effect of different matrices on antibacterial properties, we decreased the solid content of nano ZnO to 0.05% and prepared antibacterial films by melt-blending with ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), polyolefin elastomer (POE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and amorphous polymer polycarbonate (PC). The results showed that low melt strength and high crystallinity would decrease the antibacterial activity of the composite. At room temperature, the PC with a frozen molecular chain can hinder the migration of small molecules, thereby reducing antibacterial activity. Polar ZnO is more compatible with polar vinyl acetate (VA), leading to the hindered surface migration of ZnO and reduced antibacterial activity. Most importantly, low crystallinity does not necessarily lead to a reduction in barrier properties. The dense and rich layered arrangement of polyolefin elastomer (POE) increases its ability to impede the migration of nano ZnO, thereby significantly reducing its antibacterial effectiveness. A concentration of 0.05% ZnO/linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) exhibited an antibacterial rate of up to 99.3%. Additionally, adding a small amount of nano ZnO improves the tear resistance of antibacterial composite materials. This study provides a theoretical basis for the preparation of low doping, high antibacterial and excellent comprehensive performance.
Facial sporotrichosis and chromoblastomycosis In Madagascar: serial cases
Authors: Andrianarison M. , Sendrasoa FA , Rakotosaona MF , Rasamoelina TM , Sata M , Ranaivo IM , Ramarozatovo LS , Rabenja F Rapelanoro
Published: April 2023

Objective our study aims to determine the epidemiological and clinical management of deep facial mycosis cases.Methods We have conducted a prospective descriptive study of facial sporotrichosis and chromoblastomycosis cases at the two dermatology departments of Antananarivo University Hospital to document current various forms of facial infections.Results The study spanned over a period of five years, from 2013 to 2017. We have found 148 cases of deep mycoses, including 63 cases (42.6%) of sporotrichosis and 50 cases (33.9%) of chromoblastomycosis. Nine cases (6%) of deep mycoses on the face have been recorded, 5 of which are children aged 5 to 15. Infections are mostly located on the palpebral region, affecting 80% of the screened patients. All patients were treated orally with itraconazole.Conclusion being children, auto-inoculation and infection of other family member are risks factors for facial chromoblastomycosis and sporotrichosis contamination
Dual-Responsive Polymers Synthesized via RAFT Polymerization for Controlled Demulsification and Desorption
Authors: Ma Hao , Cameron Alexandre
Published: April 2023

Intelligent polymers responsive to the environment have aroused widespread interest in many applications of materials and interfaces. However, sensitive control of the oil-water interface remains a major challenge, using reversible self-assembly of macromolecules induced by external stimuli. Here, we synthesized a new amphiphilic triblock copolymer responsive to pH and UV light via reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) aqueous polymerization. Poly(methacrylic acid) (PMAA) acts as the hydrophilic block; poly(N, N-dimethyl aminoethyl methacrylate) (PDMAEMA) and poly(methacrylamide azobenzene) (PMAAAB) are the hydrophobic blocks with responsiveness. The as-synthesized polymer was measured regarding UV–vis transmittance and contact angle to verify the tunable amphiphilicity and wettability by the double stimulation. The newly developed dual-responsive polymer was applied for oil/water separation and controlled dye release. With the synergic stimulation of pH and UV light, efficient separation for oil-in-water emulsions (separation efficiency: 66.8% in 15 min) and excellent desorption for adsorbed dyes (desorption efficiency: 93.8% in 15 min) are achieved.
Impact of melt flow and surface tension on gap bridging during laser beam welding
Authors: Volpp Joerg
Published: April 2023

Laser beam welding is an essential technology to enable the transformation to enforce e-mobility. When manufacturing light weight structures like the chassis, precision, speed, quality and low deformation can be expected when using the laser beam as a welding heat source. However, the laser beam is typically used at small dimensions and can fail to transfer its energy to the joining partners when the gap between them becomes large. Beam shaping technologies have developed in the last years to be flexibly used for high-power processes and provide an opportunity to alter the energy input and thereby improve the welding quality and gap bridgability. In this work, multi-spot beam shaping was analyzed using up to nine spots. Experiments were performed using different beam shapes in order to redistribute the energy input, recording the process using high-speed imaging for detection of melt pool dimensions. Those were used as input for a simplified analytical model predicting the process collapse based on the available melt material. Several beam shapes created melt pools that support the material availability behind the keyhole(s). Numerical simulations showed that directed melt flows induced by the keyhole(s) can increase the gap bridgability.
Influence of Nanoparticle Encapsulation and Encoding on the Surface Chemistry of Polymer Carrier Beads
Authors: Scholtz Lena , Tavernaro Isabella , Eckert J. Gerrit , Lutowski Marc , Geißler Daniel , Hertwig Andreas , Hidde Gundula , Bigall Nadja , Resch-Genger Ute
Published: April 2023

Surface-functionalized polymer beads encoded with molecular luminophores and nanocrystalline emitters such as semiconductor nanocrystals, often referred to as quantum dots (QDs), or magnetic nanoparticles are broadly used in the life sciences as reporters and carrier beads. Many of these applications require a profound knowledge of the chemical nature and total number of their surface functional groups (FGs), that control bead charge, colloidal stability, hydrophobicity, and the interaction with the environment and biological systems. For bioanalytical applications, also the number of groups accessible for the subsequent functionalization with, e.g., biomolecules or targeting ligands is relevant. In this study, we explore the influence of QD encoding on the amount of carboxylic acid (COOH) surface FGs of 2 µm polystyrene microparticles (PSMPs), loaded with luminescent core/shell CdSe QDs by QD addition during bead formation by a thermally induced polymerization reaction and a post synthetic swelling procedure. Quantification of the accessible number of COOH groups on the surface of QD-encoded and pristine beads was performed by two colorimetric assays, utilizing differently sized reporters and electrostatic and covalent interactions, and compared to the total number of FGs obtained by a conductometric titration and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). In addition, a comparison of the impact of QD and dye encoding on the bead surface chemistry was done. Our results demonstrate the influence of QD encoding and the QD-encoding strategy on the number of surface FG that is ascribed to an interaction of the QDs with the carboxylic acid groups on the bead surface. These findings are of considerable relevance for applications of nanoparticle-encoded beads and safe-by-design concepts for nanomaterials.
How prepared are health systems in low- and middle-income countries to provide rehabilitation in conflict and disaster response? A scoping review
Authors: Gosling Justine , Maritz Roxanne , Laplante-Lévesque Ariane , Sabariego Carla
Published: April 2023

IntroductionConflict and other disasters such as earthquakes or landslides result in traumatic injuries creating surges in rehabilitation and assistive technology needs, exacerbating pre-existing unmet needs. Disasters frequently occur in countries where existing rehabilitation services are underdeveloped, hindering response to rehabilitation demand surge events.AimsThe primary aim of this scoping review was to synthesize the evidence on the preparedness of health systems in low- and middle-income countries to respond with rehabilitation services and assistive technology to the demand associated with conflict and disaster situations. A secondary aim was to summarize related recommendations identified in the gathered literature.MethodologyA scoping review was conducted using the Arksey and O’Malley framework to guide the methodological development. The results are reported in accordance with PRISMA-ScR. Four bibliographic databases were used: CINHAL, Cochrane, Pubmed, Scopus and. Key international organisations were also contacted. The search range was 2010–2022. Eligible publications were categorized for analysis under the six World Health Organization health systems buildings blocks.ResultsOf the 27 studies included in the scoping review, 14 focused on service delivery, 6 on health workforce, 4 on health information systems and 3 on the leadership and governance building block. No study focused on financing nor assistive technology. This review collected the most frequently referenced recommendations for actions that should be taken to develop rehabilitation services in disasters. The most prominent recommendations were; the provision early and multi-professional rehabilitation, including the provision of assistive technology and psychological support, integrated community services; disaster response specific training for rehabilitation professionals; advocacy efforts to create awareness of the importance of rehabilitation in disasters; and the integration of rehabilitation into disaster preparedness and response.Conclusion:The literature demonstrates that rehabilitation is poorly integrated into health systems disaster preparedness and response in low- and middle-income countries, largely due to low awareness of rehabilitation, undeveloped rehabilitation health systems and a lack of rehabilitation professionals, and disaster specific training for them. The paucity of evidence available hinders advocacy efforts for rehabilitation in disaster settings and limits the sharing of experiences and lessons learnt to improve rehabilitation preparedness and response. Advocacy efforts need to be expanded.
Characterization of spray dried cellulose nanofibrils produced by disk refining process at different fineness levels
Authors: Hwang Sungjun , Walker Colleen C. , Ozcan Soydan , Tekinalp Halil , Han Yousoo , Gardner Douglas J.
Published: April 2023

Three types of wood pulp feedstocks were disk refined to produce cellulose nanofibrils at different fineness levels ranging from 50 to 100%, and the resulting aqueous suspensions of cellulose nanofibrils were spray dried. The spray drying experiments were carried out to examine different processing conditions for the different CNF feedstock types and fines level at various suspension concentrations to produce dry samples with free-flowing powder morphologies. The fineness levels and solids contents of CNF suspensions were set to 80% or more and 1.8% or less, respectively. If the solids content of the CNF solutions was high and the fibrillation level was low, plugging was experienced in the spray head because of the high viscosity of the suspensions, resulting in production of poor-quality powders. In terms of energy savings, even if the CNF suspension solids content was increased to 1.5 wt.%, the powder quality and the production yields were excellent. It was confirmed that high-quality powder under 20 µm were produced at a 90% fibrillation level of all CNF feedstocks. The resulting dry CNF powders were characterized to determine particle size distributions and morphological properties via a scanning electron microscope and a laser diffraction particle size analyzer. The particle sizes were smaller at higher fibrillation levels and lower solids content of the CNF suspensions. CNF suspension derived from bleached kraft pulp, the average particle size decreased by 43% and 33% with the lowered solids contents from 1.8–1%, and the increased fineness levels from 80–100%, respectively.
The Effect of Cocoa Butter Substitute (CBS) Produced from Palm Kernel Oil and Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) on The Quality of Milk Chocolate
Authors: Sabahannur St , Alimuddin Suraedah , Subaedah St , Wahdaniya Nurul , Faharuddin Firda Yunita
Published: April 2023

Consumption of chocolate products in the tropics is increasing. The chocolate manufacturing industry cannot rely solely on cocoa butter (CB), because cocoa butter is relatively expensive and has a low melting point, making it less suitable for the tropics. To meet the demand for chocolate, it is necessary to substitute vegetable fat which can increase the melting point and good proximate value. In the chocolate industry, vegetable fats are used which have physical properties similar to cocoa butter, known as Cocoa Butter Substitute (CBS) and virgin coconut oil (VCO). This study shows an increase in the melting point of milk chocolate substituted for CBS and VCO compared to using only cocoa butter. In addition, there was an increase in the content of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and also the levels of lauric acid and oleic acid in milk chocolate.
The Impact of Glioblastoma on Patients' Cognitive and Demographic Characteristics and Psychological Well-Being of Patients and Caregivers: A Single-Center Retrospective Study
Authors: Günerhan Göksal , Öcal Özgür , Dağlar Zeynep , Çağıl Emin , Ertuğrul Yavuz , Belen Ahmet Deniz
Published: April 2023

Background
The objective of this retrospective study was to investigate the prognostic factors, patients' characteristics, and outcomes of adult patients with glioblastoma and to evaluate the impact of the disease on the mental health and emotional well-being of patients and their relatives.
Materials and Methods
The study included 98 adult patients with glioblastoma who underwent pre- and post-operative cognitive assessments using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was also used to evaluate and compare psychological symptoms of patients and their relatives over time. Seizures were seen in 45,9% of patients, and the mean age of the patients was 60,1 ± 13,8 years. The patients were evaluated at various time intervals before and after surgery, and the data were analyzed retrospectively.
Results
The study found that before surgery, the anxiety levels of caregivers were significantly higher than those of patients during all evaluation periods. Additionally, the depression scores of caregivers were significantly higher than those of patients only in the first month following the operation. There were no significant differences in depression scores between patients and caregivers in the other assessment intervals. The average cognitive level of patients, as assessed by the MMSE scale, was 22,4 before the operation and 20,91 after the operation.
Conclusion
Glioblastoma has a significant impact on the mental health and emotional well-being of both patients and their relatives. The study highlights the importance of providing early support to both patients and their relatives before surgery. The study's strength is that it focuses on an early time point, prior to surgery, where both patients and their relatives are already affected and may require additional support. The results of this study can help healthcare professionals to better understand the psychological impact of glioblastoma and provide more targeted support to patients and their caregivers.
LINC00665 contributes to cholangiocarcinoma progression by modulating IRF1/PD-L1
Authors: Huang Peng , Liu Yang , Zhou Yongxu , Yin Wenxin , Yu Liang , Xu Yi , Kang Pengcheng , Cui Yunfu
Published: April 2023

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to play crucial roles in human cancers. However, the underlying biological functions and mechanisms of lncRNAs in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) remain unclear. Here, we found that LINC00665 expression was increased in CCA tumour samples and that LINC00665 expression was p negatively correlated with survival rate in CCA patients. Our observations showed that LINC00665 promoted the proliferation, migration and invasion of CCA cells in vitro and in vivo. In addition, we found that LINC00665 interacts with IRF1 and increases IRF1 protein levels. LINC00665 promotes tumour progression phenotypes in part by regulating IRF1. In addition, LINC000665 can increase the expression of PD-L1 and promote tumour immune escape. These results suggest that LINC00665 is an oncogene and that the inhibition of LINC00665 expression may be a new therapeutic target for cholangiocarcinoma.
Prediction of musculoskeletal pain after the first intravenous zoledronic acid injection in patients with primary osteoporosis: Development and evaluation of a new nomogram
Authors: Zheng Xiaoxia , Ye Jiangnan , Zhan Qunzhang , Zhao Weifeng , Liao Zhongqin , Ye Xiaolin , Qu Chongzheng
Published: April 2023

Objective:
To construct a new prediction nomogram to predict the risk of musculoskeletal pain in patients with primary osteoporosis who receive zoledronic acid intravenously for the first time.
Method:
Clinical data of 368 patients with primary osteoporosis who received the first intravenous injection of zoledronic acid in our hospital from December 2019 to December 2022 were studied. Patients were divided into a musculoskeletal pain group (n =258) and a non-musculoskeletal pain group (n =110) based on the presence or absence of musculoskeletal pain 3 days after injection. Statistically significant predictors were screened by logistic regression analysis and the minimum absolute contraction and selection operator (LASSO) to construct a nomogram. The nomogram was evaluated by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, the calibration curve, the C-index, and the decision curve analysis (DCA) and verified in a validation cohort.
Results:
The independent predictors of the nomogram were age, serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D, NSAIDs, vitamin D, and BMI. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.980 (95% CI, 0.915–0.987), showing excellent predictive performance. The nomogram c index was 0.980, and the nomogram c index for internal verification remained high at 0.979. Moreover, calibration curves show that the nomogram has good consistency. Finally, the DCA showed that the net benefit of the nomogram was 0.20-0.49.
Conclusion:
Establish an accurate and reliable nomogram for musculoskeletal pain after the first intravenous administration of zoledronic acid. Clinicians must pay attention to the evaluation and prevention of adverse reactions after zoledronic acid injection in order to increase patients' willingness to receive a second dose of zoledronic acid.
Construction of blow-up solution for 5-dimensional critical Fujita type equation with different blow-up speed
Authors: Zhao Jianfeng , Zhang Liqun
Published: April 2023

We are concerned with blow-up solutions of the 5-dimensional energy critical heat equation $u_t=\Delta u + | u |^{\frac{4}{3}}u$. Our main result is to show that the existence of type II solutions blows up at any k points with arbitrary k blow-up rates. The inner-outer gluing method has been employed.
Highly effective flame retarded TPU introduced by a new phosphorus-containing Schiff base derivative at low addition
Authors: Hao Fenghao , Zhang Jian , Xu Xueling , Deng Yaxin , Chen Yajun , Li Mengqi , Hu Jing , Qian Lijun
Published: April 2023

A highly effective novel phosphorus-containing Schiff base derivative flame retardant N,N′-bis[1-(salicylidene) methanephenylphosphonic acid]-1,2- ethylene diamine (SMAE) was successfully synthesized via the addition reaction between phenyl hypophosphite and N, N'-bis(salicylidene)ethylenediamine. It had great thermal stability (T5%, 271℃) and char forming ability (29.6 wt % at 700 °C), which was added to TPU at different additions to improve the flame retardant performance. Results showed that only 4% SMAE increased the limiting oxygen index value of TPU from 22.3% to 32%, passing UL 94 V-0 rating. Meanwhile, the peak heat release rate, average heat release rate and total heat release of TPU also decreased by 3%, 19% and 16%, respectively. The constituent and microscopic morphology of the residual char of TPU samples were observed by fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), which indicated SMAE produced phosphinic acid to promote the formation of a more complete and dense char layer for TPU. The pyrolysis gas phase products were recorded by thermogravimetric Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (TG-FTIR). The results showed that SMAE could produced PO· terminated the chain reaction and released inert gases (carbon dioxide and ammonia) to dilute combustible gases during combustion. Therefore, SMAE endows TPU with excellent flame retardancy.
Web accessibility Evaluation of private and government websites for people with Disabilities through Fuzzy Classifier in USA
Authors: Simhadri Naga , K Chaitanya
Published: April 2023

The impact of technological advancements in construct the web in order tomake it accessible for people with impairments was examined through a retrospective analysis of websites. For the years 1997-2002, anarbitraryillustration of overall webpages and a suitabilityillustration of US administration webpages were researched and related. The accessing the web becomes barrier (WAB) and difficulty ratings remained computed. ANOVA and Tukey's HSD remainedrecycled to detect alterations between centuries for overallpositions. ANOVA repeat measurements wereutilized to analyze changes in US government websites, and Pearson's connection factor (r) was calculated toward assess the connection among convenience and difficulty. Arbitrary webpages gradually develop unreachable as difficulty rises. The complexity of US government websites is increasing while they are still accessible through fuzzy classifier. It's not necessary for increasing complexity, which is frequently brought on by adding complicated components to a Web page, to result in greater accessibility hurdles reducing the use of scripts in webpage design will increase complexity.
The application of Compont gel for sublay mesh fixation in subcostal hernia repair: a retrospective study
Authors: Liang Chen , Zheng Ruotong , Xing Xiaowei , Chen Jie , Chen Fuqiang
Published: April 2023

Background
Subcostal hernia is a type of lateral abdominal wall hernia that usually occurs after open hepatobiliary and esophagogastric operations. The composition of different myofascial layers makes the anatomic reconstruction of the abdominal wall difficult. We aim to evaluate the use of medical glue in fixing the mesh during subcostal hernioplasty compared to sutures.
Methods
From Jan 2016 to Dec 2021, the data of 58 patients who underwent sublay mesh techniques for subcostal hernioplasty were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into two groups. In the glue group, a combination of a titanium-coated mesh and Compont gel were applied in 12 patients for mesh fixation; In the suture group, a standard polypropylene mesh or composite mesh was fixed by sutures in 14 patients. The operation features, and peri- and postoperative outcomes were analyzed statistically. Meanwhile, medical costs were calculated and evaluated.
Results
No difference between the two groups was observed concerning demographic characteristics, and operation features such as defect size, and mesh size used for operation. In the follow-up period, there was no difference between the two groups for recurrences, or other complications, such as chronic pain, foreign body sensation, infection of the abdominal wall, and seroma. During hospitalization, the operation time was significantly shortened in the glue group (78.9 ± 20.4 minutes vs 100.8 ± 37.5 minutes, P = 0.043), while the medical costs are comparable between the two groups (P > 0.05).
Conclusion
The use of Compont gel in fixing the mesh during subcostal hernia repair is associated with a shortened operation time and is convenient, safe, and effective. They are worthy of clinical application.
Initial Experience of 10 Imaging Vendors With the IHE SHARAZONE: a New Distributed Peer to Peer Test Service for DICOM Objects
Authors: Nichols Steven , Laffin Bruno , Parisot Charles
Published: April 2023

The cross-vendor exchange of DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) images and objects has been identified as a crucial factor in improving the robustness of product interoperability in the healthcare industry. This, in turn, accelerates innovation and advances the field of medical imaging. Despite multiple attempts to establish a sustainable model for the sharing of DICOM samples, the industry has yet to see a successful implementation. To address this issue, Integrating the Healthcare Enterprise (IHE) has created the IHE SHARAZONE, a continuous cross-vendor DICOM data sharing test service. IHE is a well-respected organization in the healthcare industry, known for its ability to turn standards such as DICOM, HL7 V2, HL7 CDA and HL7 FHIR into practical, real-world solutions for clinical practice. The IHE SHARAZONE aims to provide a solution for the need for a reliable and consistent cross-vendor DICOM data sharing system. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the IHE SHARAZONE, a five-month pilot was conducted with ten imaging vendors. The pilot concluded with a participant survey, the results of which are reported in this publication. The findings of the survey provide valuable insights into the initial experience with the IHE SHARAZONE, and can inform future improvements and developments to this important service. The healthcare industry is constantly evolving, and it is essential that medical imaging technology keeps pace with these advancements. The IHE SHARAZONE provides a crucial step towards achieving this goal, by enabling cross-vendor exchange of DICOM images and objects, and improving the robustness of product interoperability. This, in turn, will accelerate innovation and advance the field of medical imaging, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes.
Overweight and obesity determined by body mass index criteria for Asian populations adversely affect assisted reproductive outcomes among Chinese women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Ye Yinghui , Zhao Ruimin , Yang Xinyun , Cui Long , Wang Lefeng
Published: April 2023

Background: Obesity is a common feature in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and associated with multiple adverse reproductive outcomes. However, the impact of overweight and obesity on reproductive outcome of PCOS women underwent the in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) is currently controversial. Since appropriate body mass index (BMI) levels differ across ethnic groups, this study was performed to investigate the effects of BMI on IVF outcomes among women with PCOS using BMI cut-off values proposed by the World Health Organization for Asian populations.
﻿Method(s): This was a retrospective study including 1066 women with PCOS receiving IVF treatment at our institution between January 2018 and June 2021, among whom 960 underwent their first fresh or frozen embryo transfer. Participants were categorized according to their BMI as follows: patients with normal weight (BMI < 23 kg/m2), patients with overweight (BMI: 23–24.9 kg/m2), and patients with obesity (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2). The effect of BMI on IVF outcomes (the numbers of oocytes, two pronuclear zygotes, and good-quality embryos; the rates of implantation, miscarriage, clinical pregnancy and live birth) was evaluated by descriptive statistics and logistic regression models with confounders adjusted.
Interventions: no
Result(s): High BMI was associated with significantly lower numbers of total oocytes retrieved, mature oocytes, two pronuclear zygotes, and good-quality embryos among women with PCOS. PCOS patients with a BMI ≥ 23 kg/m2 had significantly lower live birth rates (41.9% vs. 49.1%; adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.75; ﻿95% confidence interval [CI], 0.57–0.97) and implantation rates (35.8% vs. 43.9%; aOR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.61–0.93) than those with normal BMI.
Conclusion(s): PCOS patients with a BMI ≥ 23 kg/m2 have lower live birth rates than those with a BMI < 23 kg/m2. Defining obesity and overweight with ethnicity-specific BMI cut-offs may help to improve IVF outcomes among PCOS patients.
Total tumor volume as a predictor of survival in patients with multiple oligometastases treated with stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR)
Authors: Franzese Ciro , Vernier Veronica , Franceschini Davide , Comito Tiziana , Navarria Pierina , Clerici Elena , Teriaca Maria Ausilia , Massaro Maria , Cristina Luciana , Marini Beatrice , Galdieri Carmela , Mancosu Pietro , Tomatis Stefano , Scorsetti Marta
Published: April 2023

Background: Delivering stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) in patients with multiple oligometastases represents a challenge for clinical and technical reasons. We aimed to evaluate the outcome of patients affected by multiple oligometastases treated with SABR and the impact of tumor volume on survival.
Materials and methods: We included all the patients treated with single course SABR for 3 to 5 extracranial oligometastases. All patients were treated with the volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) technique with ablative intent. End-points of the analysis were overall survival (OS), progression free survival (PFS), local control (LC) and toxicity.
Results: 136 patients were treated from 2012 to 2020 on 451 oligometastases. Most common primary tumor was colorectal cancer (44.1%) followed by lung cancer (11.8%). A total of 3, 4 and 5 lesions were simultaneously treated in 102 (75.0%), 26 (19.1%), and 8 (5.9%) patients, respectively. Median total tumor volume (TTV) was 19.1 cc (range 0.6 - 245.1). With a median follow-up of 25.0 months, OS at 1 and 3 years was 88.4% and 50.2%, respectively. Increasing TTV was independent predictive factor of worse OS (HR 2.37, 95%CI 1.18 – 4.78, p=0.014) and PFS (HR 1.63, 95%CI 1.05 – 2.54; p=0.028). Median OS was 80.6 months if tumor volume was ≤ 10 cc (1 and 3 years OS rate 93.6% and 77.5%, respectively), and 31.1 months if TTV was higher than 10 cc (1 and 3 years OS rate 86.7% and 42.3%, respectively). Rates of LC at 1 and 3 years were 89.3% and 76.5%. In terms of toxicity, no grade 3 or higher toxicity was reported both in the acute and late settings.
Conclusion: We demonstrated the impact of tumor volume on survival and disease control of patients affected by multiple oligometastases treated with single course SABR.
Effects of C-reactive protein trajectories of critically ill patients with sepsis on in-hospital mortality rate
Authors: Jiang Xuandong , Zhang Chenlu , Pan Yuting , Cheng Xuping , Zhang Weimin
Published: April 2023

Sepsis, a life-threatening condition caused by an inflammatory response to systemic infection, results in a significant social burden and healthcare costs. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the C-reactive protein (CRP) trajectories of patients with sepsis in the intensive care unit (ICU) and the in-hospital mortality rate. We reviewed 1,464 patients with sepsis treated in the ICU of Dongyang People's Hospital from 2010 to 2020 and used latent growth mixture modeling to divide the patients into four classes according to CRP trajectory (intermediate, gradually increasing, persistently high, and persistently low CRP levels). We found that patients with intermediate and persistently high CRP levels had the lowest (18.1%) and highest (32.6%) in-hospital mortality rates, respectively. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that patients with persistently high (odds ratio [OR] = 2.19, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.55–3.11) and persistently low (OR = 1.41, 95% CI = 1.03–1.94) CRP levels had a higher risk of in-hospital mortality than patients with intermediate CRP levels. In conclusion, in-hospital mortality rates among patients with sepsis differ according to the CRP trajectory, with patients with intermediate CRP levels having the lowest mortality rate. Further research on the underlying mechanisms is warranted.
Crosslinked oxidized-nanocellulose/chitosan hydrogels as a scaffold matrix for mesenchymal stem cell growth
Authors: Mariño Mayra A. , Oyarce Karina , Tovar Catalina , Segura Rodrigo , Paredes Gabriela , Pavez Paulina , Sarabia Mauricio , Amoroso Alejandro , Concha Jose L. , Norambuena-Contreras Jose , Barajas Gustavo Cabrera , Castaño Johanna
Published: April 2023

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are recognized for their immunomodulatory effects and regenerative properties, being promising therapeutic agents for a wide range of diseases. To ensure a localized effect of MSC in the organism, biobased hydrogels have been tested for their ability to acting as a matrix-embedded to improves MSC targeted delivery. In this context, nanocellulose (NC) has been used for drug delivery, showing biocompatibility and, durability in time, but until now NC not been tested for MSC growth exploiting the size and aldehyde content of NC. In this study, cellulose nanocrystals (CNC), cellulose nanofibers (CNF) and microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) were studied after one-pot oxidation and further crosslinking with chitosan (mass ratio 1:5). Size and aldehyde content of oxidized NC samples were evaluated to analyze their influence on the hydrogel’s properties. The crosslinked hydrogels were analyzed by FESEM, swelling ability, FTIR, compression tests, thermal stability, and stability in culture cell conditions. Oxidized-MFC hydrogel improved the mechanical stability and swelling behavior, but it lacks stability at cell conditions possibly due to its low aldehyde content (0.54 mmol/g). Conversely, oxidized CNF and oxidized CNC formed suitable crosslinked hydrogels for cell adhesion, and for growing and proliferating of MSC 3D spheroids after 120 h. However, only hydrogel with PO-CNF/chitosan shows antibacterial activity as well as MSC proliferation.
Development, validation, and psychometric analysis of Foot and Ankle Flexibility Index (FAFI)
Authors: Martinez-Sebastian Carlos , Gijon-Nogueron Gabriel , AM Angela Margaret Evans , Asencio Jose Miguel Morales , Molina-Garcia Cristina , Ramos-Petersen Laura
Published: April 2023

Objective
To develop a new diagnostic tool for joint hypermobility of the paediatric foot and ankle, based on a dichotomous scoring system, the validated Lower Limb Assessment Score (LLAS). With separation of the foot and ankle items, we obtained a new diagnostic tool for joint hypermobility of the foot and ankle, specifically, based on a dichotomous scoring system.
Methods
A total of 205 children between 5 and 10 years of age participated in the present cross-sectional study. The new tool Foot and Ankle Flexibility Index (FAFI) was the choice of the last 7 items of LLAS, which are specific to assess the foot and ankle. The internal consistency was measured with Cronbach’s test. Kappa statistics with 95% CI were calculated to verify the level of inter-rater and intra-rater agreement for the FAFI test.
Results
Cronbach's alpha returned 0.82. The correlations between items returned a mean of 0.59 (range: 0.43–0.74). The discrimination score on the ROC curve (4 points) showed that the model can be used to identify children with joint hypermobility of the foot and ankle.
Conclusions
This study identified high reliability between evaluators, and high sensitivity and specificity, for a new reliable and valid tool for the diagnosis of foot and ankle joint hypermobility.
IoT and Radio Telemetry based Wireless Engine Control and Real-Time Position Tracking System for an Agricultural Tractor
Authors: SHRIVASTAVA PRATEEK , Tewari V. K. , Gupta Chanchal , Singh Gajendra
Published: April 2023

Internet of Things (IoT) has presented a new scope in the field of Precision Agriculture. With the application of cloud computing and WiFi-based long-distance network in IoT, it is possible to connect the farmers of rural areas effectively and harness the benefit of its advancement. In the present research work, an IoT-based scalable network architecture has been designed for two capabilities 1. For starting and stopping the tractor engine from a remote location and 2. For real-time tracking of the position and monitoring the engine status on a developed website. The developed system consists of the on-board unit (OBU), web server, and google map-based webpage. The OBU consists of the Engine Control Unit (ECU) along with a GPS tracking device for presenting the real-time information on a website. The ECU consists of an RF-based wireless transmitting and receiving system to start and stop the remotely situated tractor engine. As the tractor engine starts it automatically powers up the GPS device for acquiring real-time information i.e. Longitude, Latitude, Time, speed, and Date from satellites, and sends it to the OBU. The Raspberry Pi-3 which has been used as the central processing unit in OBU, gathers both position and engine information and processes it after that sends it to the webserver, where these data are stored in the database of the web server and can be retrieved as a request for position browsing on the map. Finally, a web application has been created using Python, language and also embedded with Google Map to retrieve and display real-time information. The developed system enables tractor owners to monitor the real-time position and status of the engine of their targeted tractor on Google Map through a pre-designed website. The developed system has been found to be very simple and can be used by skilled farmers as well.
Staff perceptions of factors affecting the use of RAS-DS to support collaborative mental health practice
Authors: Honey Anne , Hancock Nicola , Scanlan Justin Newton
Published: April 2023

Background The Recovery Assessment Scale: Domains and Stages (RAS-DS) is designed as both a recovery outcome measure and a tool to enhance service-user control over their recovery journey. While extensively and globally used in mental health services for the former purpose, routine use for the latter purpose is yet to be realised. The aim of this study was to identify barriers, facilitators and additional supports needed for use of RAS-DS to support service user participation, goal setting and recovery action planning.Methods An online survey was conducted of mental health workers who had engaged with RAS-DS, including fixed choice and open-ended questions. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and interpretive content analysis respectively.Results The 65 respondents reported more frequent use of RAS-DS as an outcome measure than as a collaboration tool and more than half reported difficulties in using it in this way. Factors that they described as influencing the use of RAS-DS as a tool for collaboration and support were previous experiences with RAS-DS, organisational supports and policies, awareness of the RAS-DS amongst colleagues; RAS-DS related training and support; staff time and capacity; the format of the RAS-DS; the service user population or context; and respondents’ own active efforts.Conclusions Extending the use of RAS-DS, an already widely used tool, to routinely support recovery-oriented practice has benefits of efficiency and service user empowerment. However further work is needed to enable this, including: provision of co-designed, accessible training resources; a user platform including built in guidance; and strategies to promote management understanding and valuing of the opportunities inherent in RAS-DS for enhanced service delivery.
A Multi-angle Bidirectional Interaction Model for Entity Linking
Authors: Ji Lin , Hui Bei , Nian Yuhui , Zhou Wei , Qiu Jiajun
Published: April 2023

The process of connecting references in a text to appropriate entities in a knowledge graph is known as entity linking. The existing entity linking model learns local compatibility through content and global interdependencies through relevant knowledge graph for disambiguation. However, the local compatibility component of existing methods usually ignores the multi-angle interactions between mentions and candidate entities. In order to fully account for the bidirectional connection between the input document and the knowledge graph, we propose the Bidirectional Interaction Entity Linking (BI-INTEL). The correlation between mentions and candidate entities, as well as the applicability of mention context and candidate entity descriptions, are all taken into account in the local compatibility component. In the global interdependence component, our stacked random walk layers learn the global interdependence of the candidate entity to enhance the accuracy of entity linking. According to the experiments, our BI-INTEL performs 3% better on average than cutting-edge methods.
Optimizing treatment of brain metastases in an era of novel systemic treatments: a single center consecutive series
Authors: Schie P. , Rijksen B. L.T. , Bot M. , Wiersma T. , Merckel L. G. , Brandsma D. , Compter A. , Hamer P. C. Witt , Post René , Borst Gerben
Published: April 2023

Background
The multidisciplinary management of patients with brain metastases consists of surgical resection, radiation treatment and systemic treatment. Tailoring and timing these treatment modalities is challenging. This study presents real-world data from consecutively treated patients and assesses the impact of all treatment strategies and their relation with survival. The aim is to provide new insights to improve multidisciplinary decisions towards individualized treatment strategies in patients with brain metastases.
Methods
A retrospective consecutive cohort study was performed. Patients with brain metastases were included between June 2018 and May 2020. Brain metastases of small cell lung carcinoma were excluded. Overall survival was analyzed in multivariable models.
Results
676 patients were included in the study, 596 (88%) received radiotherapy, 41 (6%) awaited the effect of newly started or switched systemic treatment and 39 (6%) received best supportive care. Overall survival in the stereotactic radiotherapy group was 14 months (IQR 5-32) and 32 months (IQR 11-43) in patients who started or switched systemic treatment and initially did not receive radiotherapy. In patients with brain metastases without options for local or systemic treatment best supportive care was provided, these patients had an overall survival of 0 months (IQR 0-1). Options for systemic treatment, Karnofsky Performance Score ≥70 and breast cancer were prognostic for a longer overall survival, while progressive extracranial metastases and whole-brain-radiotherapy were prognostic for shorter overall survival.
Conclusions
Assessing prognosis in light of systemic treatment options is crucial after the diagnosis of brain metastasis for the consideration of radiotherapy versus best supportive care.
Differential expression of diacylglycerol kinase ζ is involved in inferior parietal lobule-related dysfunction in schizophrenia with cognitive impairments
Authors: Liu Xiao-Fan , Zhao Shu-Wan , Cui Jin-Jin , Gu Yue-Wen , Fan Jing-Wen , Fu Yu-Fei , Zhang Ya-Hong , Yin Hong , Chen Kun , Cui Long-Biao
Published: April 2023

Background:
Cognitive impairment is the main factor in poor prognosis of schizophrenia, but its mechanism remains unclear. The inferior parietal lobule (IPL) is related to various clinical symptoms and cognitive impairment in schizophrenia. We aimed to explore the relationship between IPL-related functions and cognitive impairment in schizophrenia.
Methods:
136 schizophrenia patients and 146 demographically matched healthy controls were enrolled. High-spatial-resolution structural images and resting-state functional images were acquired to demonstrate the alternations of brain structure and function, while the digit span and digit symbol task of the Chinese Wechsler Adult Intelligence Test Revised (WAIS-RC) were utilized in assessing the cognitive function of the subjects. Based on the Allen Human Brain Atlas, we obtained genes that were differentially expressed in the left IPL and then intersected with the results of transcriptome-wide association study results.
Results:
We found a negative correlation between digit span backward task score and amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF) of the left IPL in healthy controls (r= −0.388, P = 0.003), which was not seen in patients (r = 0.203, P = 0.020). In addition, none of the other correlation analyses wasstatistically significant (P > 0.017). In addition, We found that diacylglycerol kinase ζ (DGKζ) is differentially expressed in the left IPL and associated with schizophrenia.
Conclusion:
Our study demonstrates the left IPL plays a vital role in cognitive impairment in schizophrenia. DGKζ may act as an essential regulator in the left IPL of schizophrenia patients with cognitive impairment.