bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of Short- and Long-term Outcomes Using Pre-Operative Ventricular Size in Infants with Post- Hemorrhagic Ventricular Dilation
Authors: Serebin Molly , Zhang Jian , Yan Ke , Cabacungan Erwin , Deshmukh Tejaswini , Maheshwari Mohit , Foy Andrew , Cohen Susan S
Published: February 2024

Purpose
Post-hemorrhagic ventricular dilation (PHVD) leads to developmental delays in premature infants, yet the optimal timing for neurosurgical interventions is unknown. Neuroimaging modalities have emerged to delineate injury and follow the progression of PHVD. Fronto-temporal horn ratio (FTHR) is used as a marker of ventricular dilation and can be a standardized tool to direct the timing of neurosurgical intervention. Our study determined the pre-operative FTHR measurement threshold to predict short- and long-term outcomes.
Methods
This is a retrospective cohort study of premature infants with severe intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) treated in a level IV NICU that developed PHVD and required neurosurgical intervention between 2012 and 2019. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was performed to evaluate the pre-operative FTHR predictability for developmental delay. An area under the curve (AUC) measured the accuracy of FTHR. In-hospital outcomes and developmental assessments were analyzed.
Results
We reviewed 121 charts of infants with IVH and identified 43 infants with PHVD who required neurosurgical intervention. We found FTHR measurements were an excellent measure of cognitive and motor delay with an AUC of 0.89 and 0.88, respectively. An average pre-operative FTHR of ≥ 0.67 was associated with worse lung and feeding outcomes. There was excellent inter-observer reliability of individual components of FTHR measurements.
Conclusions
Early intervention for PHVD is ideal but not always practical. Identifying ventricular size thresholds associated with better outcomes are needed to direct neurosurgical intervention timing.
Achieving High Efficiency, Super Broadband, Ultra-Thin, and Advanced Electromagnetic Absorption for S, C, X, Ku, K, Ka, V, W, and Millimeter Band Radar Applications
Authors: Coskun Aykut , Ozmen Ahmet , Ahmed Fahad , Ertugrul Mehmet
Published: February 2024

The aim of this study is focused on an excellent electromagnetic absorption response for radar applications by proposing an insensitive to incidence angle, ultra-thin, super broadband, and high efficiency metasurface. Achieving qualified absorption from low to high frequency is challenging due to impedance matching requirements in the structure. Herein, the proposed structure achieves a wide absorption bandwidth (over 90% absorptivity) from 2.4 GHz to 300 GHz. Moreover , the absorption efficiency of electromagnetic waves reaches (99%) from 4 GHz to 300 GHz. For transverse electric (TE) and transverse magnetic (TM) modes, the proposed structure behaves the same up to 45° when exposed to oblique incidences. The total thickness of the designed absorber is 3.6 mm, corresponding to 0.03λ0 at the lowest operating frequency. In addition, the proposed absorber is 1 compared with previous reports of radar bands. It is observed that it offers superior practical feasibility and is a promising candidate for S, C, X, Ku, K, Ka, V, W, and millimeter band radar applications.
Improved Durability of Wood Strand-Based Panels Using Guayule
Authors: Entsminger Edward D. , Mohammadabadi Mostafa , Stokes C. Elizabeth , Pradhan Suman
Published: February 2024

In this study, the effect of guayule resin on termite and fungal decay biological performances of wood strand-based (WSB) panels was explored. Guayule was applied using different methods to find the most effective one. Southern yellow pine (Pinus spp. L.) wood strands were mixed with phenol formaldehyde (PF) resin to a target resin content of 5.0% and hot-pressed to manufacture the control WSB panels. For the in-situ process, a guayule solution was prepared and sprayed on the pine wood strands immediately after spraying the PF resin to a target content of 5.0%. For brushing and spraying methods, a sub-set of the control panel specimens were further brushed or sprayed with the guayule solution on all surfaces, like a coating. To understand the effect of guayule on durability of these panels, specimens cut from control and treated panels were subjected to termite resistance and fungal degradation soil block tests. In-situ specimens having 5.0% guayule were subjected to tensile, internal bond, water absorption, and thickness swelling tests to find whether guayule affects the mechanical performance of WSB panels. The results showed that in-situ treatment resulted in significant reduction in mechanical properties of wood stand-based panels. The sprayed technique produced the most durable panels as mass loss reduced to 2.21% for termite and 3.24% for fungi specimens.
Immunogenicity Analysis of Recombinant Plasmodium malariae AMA-1 Antigen as a Potential Vaccine Candidate
Authors: Li Moyan , Wang Yuerong , Zhang Luwen , Lu Fanbo , Xia Jinxing , Zheng Meijuan , Zhang Min , Cheng Yang , Lu Feng , Han Eun Taek , Wang Bo , Xu Yuanhong
Published: February 2024

The apical membrane antigen-1 (AMA-1) is a potential candidate for the development of a malaria vaccine targeting Plasmodium parasites. Although studies on the immunogenicity of AMA-1 are abundant for Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax, there is a notable scarcity of information for Plasmodium malariae. In this study, we expressed recombinant PmAMA-1 using an Escherichia coli expression system. The integrity of the rPmAMA-1 was verified through western blotting and indirect immunofluorescence assays. The immunogenic characteristics of rPmAMA-1 were assessed in BALB/c mice, utilizing the purified protein emulsified in Freund’s adjuvant. The findings revealed that mice immunized with rPmAMA-1 generated significantly elevated specific IgG antibodies, with IgG1 being the predominant component. The immune responses exhibited Th1 (IL-2, IFN-γ, and TNF-α), Th2 (IL-4, IL-6, and IL-10) and Th17 (IL-17a) phenotypes, but with a notable bias on Th1 response. Furthermore, the antisera against rPmAMA-1 from immunized mice enabled effective recognition of its native counterpart on P. malariae parasites, affirming the correct conformation and folding of the recombinant protein. The immune profiling study strongly suggests that PmAMA-1 would likely evoke a substantial immune response in vivo, positioning it as a promising candidate for vaccine development.
Effect of antiretroviral protease inhibitors on Plasmodium falciparum erythrocyte egress and invasion
Authors: Wilson Danny W. , Frolich Sonja , Andrews Katherine T. , Skinner-Adams Tina S.
Published: February 2024

Background Anti-retroviral protease inhibitors directly inhibit the growth of asexual blood stage malaria parasites; however, this activity is not fully understood. While mode of action hypotheses have included parasite aspartic protease (plasmepsin) inhibition, current data suggest that digestive vacuole plasmepsins I-IV are not essential for asexual parasite survival, that plasmepsins VI-VIII are not expressed in these parasites and that antiretroviral protease inhibitors are poor inhibitors of plasmepsin V. The remaining plasmepsins, IX and X, have recently been shown to be essential for merozoite egress and invasion, playing important roles in the processing of key proteins including the rhoptry bulb protein PfRAP1, and subtilisin-like serine protease PfSUB1, respectively. To further understand the antiplasmodial activity of antiretroviral protease inhibitors, here we investigated the impact of tipranavir, lopinavir, ritonavir and saquinavir on the processing of PfRAP1, the PfSUB1-processed PfMSP1, and the egress and invasion of P. falciparum parasites from human erythrocytes.Methods The effect of tipranavir, lopinavir, ritonavir and saquinavir on P. falciparum parasite egress and invasion was assessed using synchronized asexual blood stage P. falciparum parasites. Schizont rupture and purified merozoite invasion were performed with and without drug and quantified by flow cytometry analysis. The impact of selected antitretroviral protease inhibitors on PfRAP1 and PfMSP1 processing was assessed by Western blot.Results The effect of tipranavir, lopinavir, ritonavir and saquinavir on the egress and invasion of P. falciparum parasites from human erythrocytes varied considerably but was low at concentrations shown to inhibit P. falciparum asexual parasite growth in vitro and negligible at clinically relevant concentrations. While the treatment of parasites with the antiretroviral protease inhibitors appeared to reduce the overall expression of PfRAP1 and PfMSP1, the processing of these proteins was not inhibited by concentrations known to inhibit parasite growth in vitro.Conclusions The limited activity of tipranavir, lopinavir, ritonavir and saquinavir on the egress and invasion of P. falciparum parasites from human erythrocytes and the processing of PfRAP1 and PfMSP1 suggests that processing events mediated by plasmepsin IX and X that are required for merozoite invasion are unlikely to be a primary mode of action for these drugs in these parasites.
Oral Hygiene, Dental Status, and Quality of Life in cancer patients with Medication related osteonecrosis of the jaws- A cross sectional study: Part 2.
Authors: Gurav Sandeep , Dholam Kanchan , Singh Gurkaran Preet , Sharma Madhura , Rane Pallavi , Jagtiani Kiran
Published: February 2024

Purpose. Oral health has been considered a critical component of MRONJ. However, there remains a gap in research concerning the role of oral health status and burden of dental disease on quality of life in patients with MRONJ. The objective of this article (part 2) is to evaluate the influence of oral hygiene, dental status and oral health related quality of life in cancer patients affected with MRONJ.
Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted from May 2021 to November 2022 in the Department of Dental and Prosthetic Surgery at Tata Memorial Hospital. A total of 30 cancer patients diagnosed with MRONJ who provided written consent were included in the study. The Oral health impact-14 (OHIP-14) questionnaire was employed to assess the patient's oral health related QoL and simplified oral health index scores (OHI-S), Decayed, missing, filled teeth score (DMFT), and pertinent dental history that triggered the necrosis were recorded.
Results.The mean age of the patients was 62 years. Our findings demonstrated significant correlation between poor oral health status and MRONJ.The mean total OHIP-14 was 20.7 (± 14). The highest mean was found for the psychological discomfort (4.0 ± 2.3). Higher total OHIP-14 score significantly correlated with a history of surgery for primary disease, presence of comorbidities, and bone metastasis. Poor dental status characterized by dental extractions and decayed teeth contributed to more psychological discomfort, whereas patients with DMFT score in the range of 15-28 had significantly more functional limitations.
Conclusion. Our findings underscore the importance of increased awareness of MRONJ risks, maintaining optimal oral hygiene, and adopting an interdisciplinary preventive approach for cancer patients receiving ARD’s and antiangiogenics ultimately contributing to an improved oral health related quality of life.
Synthesis of chitosan/carbon nanotubes composite films as potential removal of anionic and cationic dyes in aqueous solutions
Authors: Lessa Emanuele Ferreira , Gerhardt Rafael , Arabidian Viviane , Junior Tito Roberto Sant’Anna Cadaval , Pinto Luiz Antonio de Almeida
Published: February 2024

Chitosan/carbon nanotubes (CS/CNTs) composite films were developed for potential application in the removal of anionic and cationic dyes present in aqueous solutions. Chitosan is a polymer that has wide applicability in the preparation of adsorbents, and it was extracted from shrimp waste in the region of the city of Rio Grande/RS/Brazil. To prepare the films, chitosan with a degree of deacetylation around 84% and a molar mass of 162 kDa was used as a polymeric matrix. Chitosan was combined with carbon nanotubes as a reinforcing material, to obtain composite films with optimized characteristics for adsorption. The films were prepared via the casting technique using the same amount of chitosan, but varying the proportions of CNTs (0.1, 0.3 and 0.5%w w− 1. The films were characterized via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Thermogravimetry (TGA) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), also the Point of Zero Charge (PCZ), and its properties as adsorbents were investigated, such as thickness, color, mechanical properties. Afterward, Adsorption tests were carried out on the films based on experiments to verify the pH effect of aqueous solutions containing cationic (Crystal Violet) and anionic (Tartrazine Yellow) dyes.
Temperature state of polymer dielectric layer, bounded by curvilinear surfaces, at constant voltage
Authors: Zarubin Vladimir , Kuvyrkin Georgy , Savelyeva Inga
Published: February 2024

The solution of one-dimensional nonlinear problem of stationary heat conduction in a dielectric layer with volumetric energy release at a constant difference in electric potentials on the curvilinear heat transfer surfaces, bounding the layer, is presented in a closed analytical form. The analytical form of the solution, being a set of integral relations, allows to conduct a quantitative analysis of the influence of governing parameters on temperature state of the layer, including the one preceding the occurrence of thermal dielectric breakdown. Such form of solution can be used to test the results of numerical solution of this problem. An example of quantitative analysis of the presented integral relations is given. Approximate formulas that make it possible to find estimates of the parameters of temperature state of dielectric layer and the maximum difference in electrical potentials, preceding the thermal breakdown of the layer, are obtained.
Mathematics Subject Classification (2010). Primary 80A19; Secondary 97M50.
WITHDRAWN: Investigation of the Molecular Mechanisms of the Proliferative Effects of Irisin Combined with Gefitinib on the AML12 Cell Line and the Apoptotic Effects on the HepG2 Cell Line
Authors: ŞUMNULU Deniz , SANCAR Hilal , AYAZ Lokman
Published: February 2024

Aim: This study aims to investigate the molecular and cytogenetic effects of irisin and gefitinib on HepG2 and AML12 cell lines.
Methods and Results: This study explored the impact of combining irisin with gefitinib on HepG2 and AML12 cells. The MTT assay was used to measure the cytotoxicity caused by either irisin or gefitinib. Experiments involving fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry were conducted to evaluate the effects of gefitinib/irisin on apoptosis. The expression of growth factor, oncogene, apoptosis, and multidrug resistance-related genes was determined by RT-PCR. Application dosses for this combination in HepG2 were identified as 48 hours with 3.125 μM irisin and 10.34 μM gefitinib. Results revealed a decrease in apoptotic/necrotic AML12 cells but an increase in HepG2 cells. Flow cytometry showed a 3.95% rise in apoptosis/necrosis for AML12 and a significant 50.14% increase for HepG2. Real-time PCR demonstrated altered expression of apoptotic/anti-apoptotic, growth, and multidrug resistance-related genes in both cell lines due to the irisin/gefitinib combination.
Conclusion: This study suggests that the combination of irisin and gefitinib could serve as a promising candidate for an active component against hepatocellular cancer types.
Relationship among cancer treatment, quality of life, and oral function in head and neck cancer survivors: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Yokoi Aya , Maruyama Takayuki , Yamanaka Reiko , Takeuchi Noriko , Morita Manabu , Ekuni Daisuke
Published: February 2024

Purpose Treatment for head and neck cancer (HNC), such as surgery and chemoradiotherapy, can reduce oral function and affect quality of life (QoL). However, whether HNC treatment affects QoL via the decline of oral function remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the relationship among cancer treatment, QoL, and actual oral function in HNC survivors.
Methods A total of 100 HNC survivors were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. QoL was evaluated using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire - Core 30 summary score. Oral diadochokinesis (ODK), tongue pressure, moisture level on the mucosal surface, and mouth aperture size were measured. Information on age, sex, tumor site, tumor stage, history of HNC treatment, height, body weight, and lifestyle were collected from medical records. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was conducted to analyze the indirect/direct associations among HNC treatment, QoL, and oral function.
Results In total, 100 HNC survivors (58 males and 42 females; age range, 30–81 years, median, 67 years) were analyzed. Overall, 63 patients (63.0%) contracted oral cancer, 66 (66.0%) developed advanced cancer (stage 3/4), and 58 underwent reconstruction surgery. The SEM results supported the hypothesized structural model (root mean square error of approximation = 0.044, comparative fit index = 0.990, Tucker–Lewis index = 0.986). Surgery with neck dissection and reconstruction for advanced cancer had indirect effects on lower QoL via ODK and mouth aperture size.
Conclusion HNC treatment is indirectly associated with QoL via oral function in HNC survivors.
A New Approximation for Central and Peripheral Umbral Dots Separation
Authors: Kilcik Ali , Calisir Muhammed Ali , Yurchyshyn Vasyl
Published: February 2024

We present a comprehensive new approach for categorization of umbral dots (UDs) into two groups, namely, central umbral dots (CUDs) and peripheral umbral dots (PUDs). The approach was developed and tested by utilizing high-resolution data for 18 sunspots acquired with the Goode Solar Telescope at the Big Bear Solar Observatory. We explored the existence of a general criterion to discriminate between PUDs and CUDs in using manual and automatic approaches. Since the histogram of the average UD brightness shows a bimodal distribution, the automatic/manual approach included application of the Fuzzy C-Means (FCM) clustering method to the sunspot brightness data. Expressions for the separation criterion based on UD brightness were derived for both manual and automatic approaches. The manual approach was based on the relationship between the mean umbral brightness and the mean UD brightness of the separation region, while the automatic approach uses the relationship between the mean UD brightness inside the umbra and the mean UD brightness of the separation region. Further comparison showed that the manual approach performed better than the automatic approach, and it was concluded that both methods could be used for the purpose of CUD-PUD separation.
Disclosure of HIV Status to Children on Antiretroviral Therapy: Perspectives and Experiences of Healthcare Providers in the Masaka Region, Uganda
Authors: Kairania Robert , Onyango-Ouma Washington , Ondicho Tom G.
Published: February 2024

Introduction
Disclosure of HIV status to children living with HIV is one of the first steps towards the realization of managing HIV as a chronic disease. This study explored the perspectives and experiences of healthcare providers regarding HIV status disclosure to children taking daily ART in the Masaka region of Uganda.
Methods
This was a cross-sectional qualitative study that purposively selected healthcare providers offering HIV care and treatment to children aged 12-17 taking daily ART for at least 6 months from one of the HIV clinics in the Masaka region before the study. Data was collected from 18 key informant interviews (KIIs) with healthcare providers between October 2020 and July 2021 and analysed thematically guided by Braun & Clarke's basic thematic analysis steps.
Results
The findings revealed that providers offering social and psychological spaces for clients (both children and caregivers) to ventilate their issues and having HIV disclosure standards/guidelines at the health facility were key positive factors influencing HIV status disclosure to children. The study also revealed that prioritizing children with high viral loads for disclosure coupled with children being in boarding schools, disclosure role confusion by providers and the absence of disclosure standards at health facilities negatively influenced HIV status disclosure to children on ART in the Masaka region of Uganda.
Conclusion
There is a need to standardize the HIV status disclosure process for children before, during and after the disclosure including specifying provider roles at every level of the disclosure process. Additional studies are needed to evaluate the school HIV management systems for children, specifically for children in boarding schools.
Reinvestigating the EKC Hypothesis: Does Renewable Energy in Power Generation Reduce Carbon Emissions and Ecological Footprint?
Authors: Mohamed Erna Farina , Abdullah Azlina , Jaaffar Amar Hisham , Osabohien Romanus
Published: February 2024

This study utilizes the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) method to investigate the impact of electricity intensity (EINT), renewable energy in electricity generation (ERE), and gross domestic product (GDP) on Malaysia’s environmental quality, spanning from 1985 to 2020. The research employs carbon emissions (CO2 emissions) and ecological footprint (EF) as proxies for environmental degradation. The results indicate a significant impact of these variables on both CO2 emissions and EF over the long run. Notably, the study also identifies an inverted U-shaped relationship in both cases (CO2 emissions and EF) between GDP and environmental degradation, thereby validating the existence of Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis. The findings also imply that while electricity intensity is associated with increased emissions, the use of renewable energy (RE) sources for electricity generation may contribute to emission reduction. But the results for both variables show reversal signs on EF. By adopting the fully modified ordinary least square (FMOLS) method, the study also showed the same results, thus, justifying the cointegrating relationship between studied variables. Drawing from these outcomes, the study proposes policy recommendations to foster environmental sustainability and economic growth, emphasizing the need for strategic interventions in Malaysia’s electricity generation mix and energy policies.
Chiral MoS2 @BC fibrous membranes selectively promote peripheral nerve regeneration
Authors: Li Mengru , Li Xiao , Lv Yaowei , Yan Hede , Wang Xiang-Yang , He Jin , Zhou Chao , Ouyang Yuanming
Published: February 2024

Background
Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) has excellent physical and chemical properties. Further, chiral MoS2 (CMS) exhibits excellent chiroptical and enantioselective effects, and the enantioselective properties of CMS have been studied for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Intriguingly, left- and right-handed materials have different effects on promoting the differentiation of neural stem cells into neurons. However, the effect of the enantioselectivity of chiral materials on peripheral nerve regeneration remains unclear.
Methods
In this study, CMS@bacterial-cellulose (BC) scaffolds were fabricated using a hydrothermal approach. The CMS@BC films synthesized with L-2-amino-3-phenyl-1-propanol was defined as L-CMS. The CMS@BC films synthesized with D-2-amino-3-phenyl-1-propanol was defined as D-CMS. The biocompatibility of CMS@BC scaffolds and their effect on Schwann cells (SCs) were validated by cellular experiments. In addition, we implanted these scaffolds in rat sciatic nerve defect sites for three months.
Results
These chiral scaffolds display high hydrophilicity, good mechanical properties, and low cytotoxicity. Further, we found that the L-CMS scaffold was superior to the D-CMS scaffold in promoting Schwann cell (SC) proliferation. After 3 months, the scaffold showed good biocompatibility in vivo, and the nerve conducting velocities of the L-CMS and D-CMS scaffolds were 51.2 and 26.8 m/s, respectively. However, the L-CMS scaffolds showed a better regenerative effect than the D-CMS scaffolds. Similarly, the sciatic nerve function index and effects on the motor and electrophysiological functions were higher for the L-CMS than the D-CMS scaffolds. Finally, the axon diameter and myelin sheath thickness of the regenerated nerves improved in the L-CMS group.
Conclusion
We found that CMS can promote peripheral nerve regeneration, and in general, the L-CMS group exhibited superior repair. Overall, the findings of this study reveal that CMS can be used as a chiral nanomaterial nerve scaffolds for peripheral nerve repair.
Soulhacker: An artist-medical collaboration to treat depression via artistic virtual reality.
Authors: Otte Georges , De Ridder Dirk , Joris Eric , Vandebroeck Isjtar , Williams Kristin
Published: February 2024

"Soulhacker" is a pilot study that results from a collaboration between artists and health care providers and is aimed at exploring the potential benefits of an artistic implementation of virtual reality (V.R) to treat depression and anxiety. Soulhacker creates a V.R. environment that embeds a metaphorical engaging model of active patient agency inspired by the work of Milton Erickson. It creates a new level of V.R "presence" that can have therapeutic or transformative effects. Participants reported positive short-term effects on their mood (arousal, valence and control) and presented statistical significant changes in brain electrical activity in hubs belonging to sensi-motor and default mode brain network as measured by qEEG, that are consistent with previous research. These beneficial preliminary results warrant a further larger randomized controlled study to verify those promising effects and positioning of this new form of psychotherapy within existing modalities.
Behavioral Equilibrium and Evolutionary Dynamics in Asset Markets: Survival of the Fittest for Portfolio Rules
Authors: Evstigneev I. V. , Hens T. , Vanaei M. J. , Zhitlukhin M. V.
Published: February 2024

This paper analyzes a dynamic stochastic equilibrium model of an asset market based on behavioral and evolutionary principles. The core of the model is a non-traditional game-theoretic framework combining elements of stochastic dynamic games and evolutionary game theory. Its key characteristic feature is that it relies only on objectively observable market data and does not use hidden individual agents’ characteristics (such as their utilities and beliefs). A central goal of the study is to identify an investment strategy that allows an investor to survive in the market selection process, i.e., to keep with probability one a strictly positive, bounded away from zero share of market wealth over an infinite time horizon, irrespective of the strategies used by the other players. The main results show that under very general assumptions, such a strategy exists, is asymptotically unique and easily computable. Most of the related models currently considered in this field assume that asset payo¤s are exogenous and depend only on the underlying stochastic process of states of the world. The present work develops a modeling framework where the payo¤s are endogenous: they depend on the total market wealth invested in the asset.
JEL Classification: C73, D53, D58, G11, G02
Modeling human cognition and polarization using reinforcement Learning
Authors: Pavankumar P.
Published: February 2024

Some people polarize due to heated arguments but in reality and research studies says that they even polarize with similar information also. People think irrationally and confirms their pre-existing beliefs and strive to look into that information only. With these they avoid such data that contradicts them. Polarization occurs through the bias contribute to the reinforcement of existing beliefs. The people manipulate the new evidence based on the previous beliefs and bias confirmation suggestions. In order to form beliefs, people depend on least samples rather than gathering huge data and processing is also costly. A hypothesis is generated based on the least samples collected and then belief polarization model is used to test our hypothesis. A new belief formation model is developed based on reinforcement learning. In accordance to this a new evaluation metrics is used for polarization and simulations are learned how least size affects polarization. In this work basic assumptions are done with the generated hypothesis results, such that with these least samples polarization may increase. Practical suggestions are done for obtaining polarization based on our findings.
Investigation of Damage Detection in Bridge Piers using modal strain energy and modal flexibility methods: A Case Study
Authors: Zamanian Reza
Published: February 2024

Piers provide vertical support to the bridge deck and transfer loads to the foundation and ground. Ensuring their stability and structural integrity is critical to the overall safety of the bridge. The most common existing methods for damage detection, mainly used in bridge decks due to easier access and simpler modeling, are modal methods. The primary focus of this study is to explore the feasibility of utilizing these methods to detect damage in bridge piers, assuming that accurate mode shapes can be obtained. Therefore, one of the piers of Shahid Bakri Bridge in Tehran was selected as a case study. This pier was accurately modeled in Opensees. For sensitivity measurement, it was divided once into 10 parts and once into 100 parts, according to the number of sensor points. Also, 13 different scenarios with varying degrees of damage in concrete cover, rebar, and concrete core were investigated. In the two stages before and after the damage, mode shapes were extracted, and two methods, modal strain energy and modal flexibility, were used to detect the damage. The results demonstrated the good performance of both methods in detecting the presence of damage. Regarding locating the damage, the modal strain energy method was more successful. However, if there was damage in a small area of the cross-section, finding the exact location required additional sensor placements. These methods did not provide a suitable index to determine the extent of the damage.
Anatomical evaluation of P1 segment of posterior cerebral artery and posterior communicanting artery in 340 human hemispheres: a proposal for morphological classification
Authors: Nas Emine , Chatzioglou Gkionoul Nteli , Gayretli Özcan
Published: February 2024

Purpose
The aim of our study is to examine the morphometry of the P1 segment of the posterior cerebral artery (P1) and the posterior communicating artery (PcomA) and to present a descriptive classification according to morphometric findings.
Methods
340 hemispheres from 170 cadavers were included. The outer diameters of P1 and PcomA were measured with ImageJ software. Then, the configurations of the posterior cerebral artery were revealed as fetal, adult and transitional. The findings were correlated with the demographic information of the cadavers such as gender, body mass index (BMI), age.
Results
According to the morphometric findings, 83.75%, 13.85% and 2.40% of the posterior cerebral arteries were found to be adult, fetal and transitional, respectively. The fetal type was more common in cadavers aged 60 years and older (13.73%) compared to the 18–39 and 40–59 age groups. In addition, P1 and PcomA diameters also increased with age. Fetal and transtional types showed a similar low distribution in people with low (< 18.5), normal (18.5–24.9), overweight (25-29.9) and obese (> 30) BMI, whereas adult type was found in cadavers with a normal BMI of 140/303.
Conclusion
We believe that the findings of our study will contribute to the planning of neurointerventional procedures, the development of endovascular devices, the success of invasive procedures and the reduction of complications.
Would the occurrence of a Maunder-like solar minimum have reversed the observed climate change?
Authors: Cataldi Marcio , Rangel Rafael , Galvez Vitor Luiz , Jerez Sonia , Montávez Juan , Marín Amar Halifa , Landau Luiz
Published: February 2024

This study investigates a hypothetical scenario in which a prolonged solar minimum, such as the Maunder Minimum, is combined with the increase in CO2 emissions observed in the postindustrial period. For that, two fully-coupled state-of-the-art Earth system simulations were performed spanning the period 1850-2000. From the year 1950 onward, they differ on the radiative forcing. One accounts for the observed radiative forcing, including the increase in CO2 concentrations of the last decades, while the other adds the artifact of a decrease in the solar constant of similar magnitude as occurred during the Maunder Minimum four centuries ago, maintaining the increase in CO2. The model was evaluated by comparing the results of the simulations with the ERA5 data and the reanalysis of the 20th century, versions 2 and 3. In some evaluations in this study, meridional averages were made at 30-degree latitude cuts, in order to observe the differences between the effects of the Maunder Minimum in each region of the planet. It was possible to see a good consistency between the temperature differences in the second half of the 20th century simulated by CESM and the data from the reanalysis in all the regions analyzed, with the CESM variability remaining within what was observed between the reanalysis themselves. The results showed that comparing the period 1950-2000 with the period 1851-1949, it was found that the Maunder Minimum experiment managed to mitigate the warming of the planet in this period by around 50%, although it was unable to reverse it. In the periods where the greatest warming was observed, at the end of the 20th century, the Maunder Minimum had a most significant influence on reducing this warming in the Southern Hemisphere and in the section between 0-30°N, which could reduce this warming by almost 70%, and had a smaller or almost zero influence in the region between 30-90°N. However, even though the Maunder minimum mitigates warming, it has not systematically reversed this trend anywhere on the globe.
Maternal malnutrition induces in the neonate a lifelong enteropathy avoidable by postnatal S100a8/a9-conditioning
Authors: Peruzza Lisa , Heckmann Julia , Jost Tanja Rezzonico , Raneri Matteo , Guglielmetti Simone , Gargari Giorgio , Palatella Martina , Willers Maike , Fehlhaber Beate , Vogl Thomas , Roth Johannes , Grassi Fabio , Viemann Dorothee
Published: February 2024

Protein-energy-malnutrition (PEM) is linked to 45% of global childhood mortality, however, the impact of maternal PEM on the child’s health remains elusive. Previous studies suggested that maternal PEM does not affect breast milk composition. Yet, malnourished children often develop a so-called environmental enteropathy that is assumed to be triggered by frequent uptake of pathogens together with unfavorable gut colonization. Here, we show in a murine model that maternal PEM induces without additional pathogen challenge in the offspring a persistent intestinal inflammatory gut dysfunction that establishes during nursing and does not recover after weaning onto standard diet. Early intestinal influx of neutrophils, impaired postnatal development of gut-regulatory functions, and expansion of Enterobacteriaceae were hallmarks of the maternal PEM-mediated enteropathy. This resembled the gut phenotype developing upon deficient S100a8/a9-supply via breast milk and allowed revealing a lack of S100a8/A9 in the breast milk of malnourished mothers and consequently the offspring’s intestine. Nutritional supply of S100a8 to neonates of malnourished mothers abrogated the aberrant development of gut mucosal immunity and microbiota colonization and protected them lifelong against severe enteric infections and non-infectious bowel diseases. S100a8 supplementation after birth might be a promising measure to counteract deleterious imprinting of gut immunity by maternal PEM.
Quantum neural network with ensemble learning to mitigate barren plateaus and cost function concentration
Authors: Friedrich Lucas , Maziero Jonas
Published: February 2024

The rapid development of quantum computers promises transformative impacts across diverse fields of science and technology. Quantum neural networks (QNNs), as a forefront application, hold substantial potential. Despite the multitude of proposed models in the literature, persistent challenges, notably the vanishing gradient (VG) and cost function concentration (CFC) problems, impede their widespread success. In this study, we introduce a novel approach to quantum neural network construction, specifically addressing the issues of VG and CFC.Our methodology employs ensemble learning, advocating for the simultaneous deployment of multiple quantum circuits with a depth equal to 1, a departure from the conventional use of a single quantum circuit with depth L. We assess the efficacy of our proposed model through a comparative analysis with a conventionally constructed QNN. The evaluation unfolds in the context of a classification problem, yielding valuable insights into the potential advantages of our innovative approach.
Optimizing the Execution of Model Transformation Chain
Authors: Sahay Apurvanand
Published: February 2024

Model transformation is the key concept in the field of model-driven engineering. To scale up the model transformation tasks in a cloud-based low-code platform, reusing and composing smaller model transformations enables a complex transformation to be executed sequentially and optimally. To achieve reusing and composition of smaller transformations, we need to identify all the model transformation chains possible in the repository/folder to transform the source model to the target model. Then, with the help of static analysis, the total structural features involved in a model transformation are calculated and the chain with optimum quality criteria are considered to be the best chain. In this paper, we propose an approach that takes the benefit of static analysis and automatic program rewriting to optimize the selected chain. The approach will rewrite the transformations to keep only the rules and bindings that generate the intermediate model elements required to generate target model elements in the model transformation chain. The performance is improved by reducing the execution time and intermediate elements generated required to execute the selected transformation chain. This optimizing the chain' elements fasten the execution of the whole model transformation chain. The optimization of the execution of the model transformation chain helps in achieving the scalable solution that manages several workflows originating from heterogeneous model-driven platforms.
Environmental causes of regional variations in Upland Goose (Chloephaga picta) color morphs
Authors: Cossa Natalia Andrea , Bocelli Lucia
Published: February 2024

The color morphs in the Upland Goose, an endemic bird of Argentina and Chile, refer to variations in the plumage coloration in males, displaying either barred, white, or intermediate combinations of the two. These color variations can be influenced by environmental factors and, consequently, may be associated with specific geographical regions. The aim of this work was to determine the extent of Upland Goose color morphs during the breeding season and to identify potential environmental factors contributing to their differences. We compiled data from citizen science platforms and personal observations, identifying 880 records spanning from 2000-2023, covering the entire Upland Goose breeding area. Environmental variables, such as temperature, precipitation, and NDVI, and the maximum entropy modeling method were used to predict the distribution of different color morphs based on the occurrence data. Upland Goose color morphs were not uniformly distributed during the breeding season. The white morph occupied the broadest habitat suitability range, followed by the intermediate morph and, finally, by the barred morph, primarily found in the southern part of Tierra del Fuego and exhibiting allopatry with the white morph. Habitat suitability predictions suggest that barred and intermediate morphs occupy colder and more humid regions with higher precipitation compared to the white morph. These results are particularly valuable for this species given its “threatened” status in Argentina and its current global population showing a declining trend, as morphs may represent genetic variants with potential unique local adaptations and preserving this intraespecific variability is crucial for the species' conservation.
Harmful consumption and alcohol dependence in Peruvian university students with body dissatisfaction – an observational study
Authors: Cruz Carmen Indira Serrano-De La , Flores-Olivares Priscilla N. , Barreto-Araujo Joel A. , Coronel-Arias Sebastian , Rodriguez-Saldaña Christian A. , Serna-Alarcón Victor , Sandoval-Ato Raúl Hernán
Published: February 2024

The abuse of alcoholic beverages is associated with complex mental health disorders, including body dissatisfaction (BD); that form a vicious circle that is very difficult for the person who suffers from them to overcome. The objective of our study was to evaluate the association between the abuse of alcohol consumption and the degree of body dissatisfaction in young women, in four universities in northern Peru. An analytical cross-sectional study was carried out with a sample of 491 university students. Body dissatisfaction and alcohol consumption was analysed using the Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ) and the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), a test designed by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a simple screening method for its specific use in primary care settings, using the score greater than six that predicts harmful use or alcohol dependence. The prevalence of harmful consumption or alcohol dependence was higher in those women who presented body dissatisfaction with respect to the group without concern for their image, adjusted for type of university and family structure. (Adjusted PR: 2.33, 95% CI 2.10 - 2.57). In turn, university students who belonged to a reconstituted family obtained 6.82 more points (95% CI: 4.47 to 9.17) in the AUDIT test. Young women with body dissatisfaction are twice as likely to have harmful use/higher alcohol dependence even in single-parent or reconstituted families.
Pharmacists' Perspectives on Self-Care and Minor Ailment Education in Primary Schools: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Osman Samira , Paudyal Vibhu , Jalal Zahraa , Hirsch Christine
Published: February 2024

Background
In the UK, community pharmacists significantly contribute to managing minor ailments and self-care, with government policies supporting this role. However, the potential of pharmacists to enhance health education among primary school children is underexplored.
Objective
This study investigates pharmacists' perspectives on providing self-care and minor ailments education in primary schools and identifies possible roles pharmacists could play in the future.
Method
Seventeen UK-based pharmacists and pharmacy support staff were interviewed using qualitative semi-structured techniques. The interviews were transcribed, coded, and thematically analysed using NVivo 12.
Results
Five themes emerged: the perceived gap in self-care and minor ailment knowledge among children and parents, perceived positive impact of education on self-care, current health knowledge sources of children and parents, barriers to health education, and the potential role of pharmacists in self-care education in schools. Pharmacists unanimously acknowledged a significant educational role for their profession, suggesting collaborative efforts with schools to deliver tailored health education programs.
Discussion
Pharmacy staff agree that there is a pressing need for education on self care and minor ailments management within primary schools, with pharmacists keen to play a central role in educational role. Participants advocated for a strategy that combines the expertise of school teachers with pharmacists to foster self-care from an early age.
Conclusion
Pharmacists recognize the value of integrating health education into primary school curricula. A collaborative approach with educational institutions could bridge the gap in self-care and minor ailments knowledge, empowering children and reducing unnecessary healthcare resource utilization.
Basaloid Squamous Cell Carcinoma clinically and radiologically masquerading as a Head & Neck Paraganglioma– A Case Report
Authors: Weerasekara Pumudu , Chandraratne Nadeeka , Jayaweera Geethika , Rathnayake Wasantha , Perera Sunil
Published: February 2024

Background: This paper reports the first case of basaloid squamous cell carcinoma clinically and radiologically masquerading as a head and neck paraganglioma (HNPGL).
Case Presentation: A 66-year-old male with unilateral hearing impairment and 7th – 12th (excluding 11th) cranial nerve palsies was diagnosed radiologically with HNPGL by magnetic resonance imaging of the brain, which revealed a hypointense and hyperintense punctate mass centered at the jugular fossa with intracranial extension. The ascending pharyngeal artery, recognized as the major feeder, was embolized by percutaneous embolization following digital subtraction angiography. Gross total resection of the tumor was followed by an uneventful postoperative recovery. Combined immunohistochemistry and histopathological morphology revealed a basaloid squamous cell carcinoma following which the patient completed radiotherapy and is at 3-month follow-up currently.
Conclusion: This case report discusses the diagnostic pitfalls and management challenges of this rare entity based on prior evidence, as well as a literature review and clinical and surgical analysis.
Time Trends in Hypertensive Heart Disease in Women of Childbearing Age in China from 1990 to 2019: A Joinpoint Regression and Age-Period-Cohort Analysis
Authors: Hu Ben , Hou Linlin
Published: February 2024

Background: Epidemiological research on hypertensive heart disease (HHD) in women of childbearing age (WCBA) remains scarce in China. We aim to describe the current prevalence of HHD in China and analyze its temporal trends over the past 30 years.
Methods: WCBA was defined as WCBA years. The age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR) of HHD in WCBA was estimated. Joinpoint regression and age-period-cohort methods were used to analyze the temporal trends from 1990 to 2019.
Results: In 2019, the prevalence of HHD among WCBA in China was 0.171 million (95% UI: 0.105 to 0.262). From 1990 to 2019, there was an annual net drift of 0.65% (95% CI: 0.52 to 0.77) in HHD prevalence among WCBA in China. Although cohorts born earlier had a lower risk of disease, age and period effects showed unfavorable trends. From 1990 to 2019, there was a significant increase in HHD (AAPC = 0.67%, 95% CI:0.57 to 0.78; P < 0.001), with the most notable change occurring between 2000-2004 (APC = 3.83%, 95%CI: 3.20 to 4.45; P < 0.001). However, the ASPR of HHD in WCBA rapidly declined after 2015, with an APC of -0.84%.
Conclusion: Over the past 30 years, the ASPR of HHD among WCBA in China has generally shown an upward trend. Despite a downward trend in the ASPR of HHD in WCBA after 2015, the burden of HHD remains a concern. Continuous efforts are needed to reduce the burden of HHD in WCBA in China further, aligning with the strategic goal of "Healthy China 2030" and improving public health.