bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of IFNAR2 rs2236757 and OAS3 rs10735079 Polymorphisms with Susceptibility to COVID-19 Infection and Severity in Palestine
Authors: Abdelhafez Mohammad , Nasereddin Abedelmajeed , Shamma Omar Abu , Abed Rajaa , Sinnokrot Raghida , Marof Omar , Heif Tariq , Erekat Zaid , Al-Jawabreh Amer , Ereqat Suheir
Published: September 2023

The clinical course and severity of COVID-19 vary among patients. This study aimed to investigate the potential correlation between the gene polymorphisms of the interferon receptor (IFNAR2) rs2236757 and oligoadenylate synthetase 3 (OAS3) rs10735079 with the risk of COVID-19 infection and its severity among Palestinian patients. The study was conducted between April and May 2021 on 154 participants who were divided into three groups: the control group (RT-PCR-negative, n = 52), the community cases group (RT-PCR-positive, n = 70), and the critically ill cases (ICU group; n = 32). The genotyping of the investigated polymorphisms was performed using amplicon-based next-generation sequencing. The genotypes distribution for the IFNAR2 rs2236757 was significantly different among the study groups (P = 0.001), while no statistically significant differences were found in the distribution of genotypes for the OAS3 rs10735079 (P = 0.091). Logistic regression analysis adjusted for possible confounding factors revealed a significant association between the risk allele rs2236757A and critical COVID-19 illness

P
 
<
 
0.025

. Among all patients, those who carried the rs2236757GA were more likely to have a sore throat (OR, 2.52 (95% CI 1.02–6.24); P = 0.011); the presence of the risk allele rs2236757A was associated with an increased risk to dyspnea (OR, 4.70 (95% CI 1.80-12.27);

P
 
<
 
0.001

), while the rs10735079A carriers were less likely to develop muscle aches (OR, 0.34 (95% CI 0.13–0.88); P = 0.0248) and sore throat (OR, 0.17 (95% CI 0.05–0.55);

P
 
<
 
0.001

). In conclusion, our results revealed that the rs2236757A variant was associated with critical COVID-19 illness and dyspnea, whereas the rs10735079A variant was protective for muscle aches and sore throat.
Language Teacher’s Experience and Preference toward Online Learning Platforms during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Gebremariam Hailay Tesfay
Published: September 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic compelled the educational sector to act quickly, resulting in the adoption of replacement online learning platforms (OLPs) to keep the educational system running throughout the crisis. This study explored how language teachers in Ethiopia are prepared in terms of their experience and preference toward OLPs. To achieve this goal, data were collected from 203 participants (aged 22–46, including 81 males and 122 females) using a self-perceived questionnaire. The data was then analyzed using descriptive statistics, including means and standard deviations, and inferential statistics, including ANOVA tests, to determine the teachers’ experiences and preferences toward OLPs. The mean score of the teachers’ experience findings revealed a score of 3.406 out of a five-point Likert scale, and the preference subdimensions mean scores ranged from 3.164 to 3.476. The ANOVA findings revealed that, in the mean scores of language teachers’ experience toward OLPs (p>0.05) and preferences toward OLPs, there were statistically significant differences for video streaming platforms (p>0.05), digital reading materials platforms (p>0.05), and mixed OLPs (p>0.05). Regarding the statistically significant correlation between language teachers’ experiences and preferences (LTEP) toward OLPs (except between video streaming platforms and digital reading materials platforms (r = −0.011,p=0.878)), there was a statistically significant impact. Post hoc results showed, however, that there was no statistically significant correlation between language teachers’ preference dimensions. To summarize, Ethiopian language teachers preferred video streaming platforms and mixed OLPs over digital reading materials platforms. Moreover, further research into the LTEP toward OLPs in various ecological aspects is required.
Pain Management in Pediatric Burns: A Review of the Science behind It
Authors: Ciornei Bogdan , David Vlad Laurentiu , Popescu Diana , Boia Eugen Sorin
Published: September 2023

Pediatric burns are a significant medical issue that can have long-term effects on various aspects of a child’s health and well-being. Pain management in pediatric burns is a crucial aspect of treatment to ensure the comfort and well-being of young patients. The causes and risk factors for pediatric burns vary depending on various factors, such as geographical location, socioeconomic status, and cultural practices. Assessing pain in pediatric patients, especially during burn injury treatment, poses several challenges. These challenges stem from various factors, including the age and developmental stage of the child, the nature of burn injuries, and the limitations of pain assessment tools. In pediatric pain management, various pain assessment tools and scales are used to evaluate and measure pain in children. These tools are designed to account for the unique challenges of assessing pain in pediatric patients, including their age, developmental stage, and ability to communicate effectively. Pain can have significant physical, emotional, and psychological consequences for pediatric patients. It can interfere with their ability to engage in daily activities, disrupt sleep patterns, and negatively affect their mood and behavior. Untreated pain can also lead to increased stress, anxiety, and fear, which can further exacerbate the pain experience. Acute pain, which is short-term and typically associated with injury or illness, can disrupt a child’s ability to engage in physical activities and impede their overall recovery process. On the other hand, chronic pain, which persists for an extended period, can have long-lasting effects on physical functioning and quality of life in children. The psychological consequences of burns can persist long after the physical wounds have healed, leading to ongoing emotional distress and impaired functioning. Multimodal pain management, which involves the use of multiple interventions or medications targeting different aspects of the pain pathway, has gained recognition as an effective approach for managing pain in both children and adults. However, it is important to consider the specific needs and considerations of pediatric patients when developing evidence-based guidelines for multimodal pain management in this population. Over the years, there have been significant advances in pediatric pain research and technology, leading to a better understanding of pain mechanisms and the development of innovative approaches to assess and treat pain in children. Overall, pain management in pediatric burns requires a multidisciplinary approach that combines pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic interventions.
Approach of Chronic Pelvic Pain with Top Flat Magnetic Stimulation
Authors: Salsi Benedetta , Ganassi Giulia , Lopopolo Graziella , Callarelli Silvia , Comito Alessandra , Fusco Irene , Isaza Pablo González
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives. Pelvic floor tension myalgia (PFTM) represents a pelvic floor dysfunction related to increased activity or hypertonicity of pelvic floor muscles that leads to chronic pelvic pain or miofascial syndrome. In the current research, we assess the efficacy and safety of a device that uses top flat magnetic stimulation for the management of hypertonicity in women with chronic pelvic pain and interstitial cystitis. Materials and Methods. Vulvar Functional Status Questionnaire (VQ) was used for the evaluation of patient’s chronic pelvic pain and muscle hypertone improvements. The interstitial cystitis was assessed by the Leary–Sant symptom and problem indexes (ICSI and ICPI). In this study, the scores resulting from the sum of the two indexes were evaluated as OSS (ICSI + ICPI). Results. Women with chronic pelvic pain and muscle hypertone showed VQ mean values significantly lower than the controls

p
 
<
 
0.005

from the second treatment up to the sixth one. In 6 patients affected by interstitial cystitis, the mean score of OSS was significantly lower than the controls

p
 
<
 
0.005

from the second treatment up to 2 months follow-up after the last treatment session. No side effects were observed. Conclusion. Based on these results, this technology may successfully manage muscle hypertonicity condition, the chronic pelvic pain, and interstitial cystitis.
Improving fault identification in smart transmission line using machine learning technique
Authors: Venkutuswamy Radhika , Kaliyaperumal Baskaran
Published: September 2023

In this work inevitable for power transmission boards such as Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation Limited (TANGEDCO) to look for a low-cost communication system with low power usage and to improve supply reliability, to transmit reliable fault information back to the control centre in real time. This work aims to design an automated and effective fault identification and position system for all overhead power transmission network networks using all current fault indicator technologies, machine learning methods, and commercially tested communication technology to easily and reliably pin a transmission system's flawed point parts. This will help to people avoid touching the electrical wire and prevent electrical shocks and current wastage as well. Smart transmission lines have played a decisive role in developing human protection and preventing current wastage. The transmission line is opened and the state of the line is evaluated, and the information goes to electrical board (EB) office. The system monitors the data by sending the alert message to the person responsible for the GPS location, either via SMS or BUZZER, or by displaying the alert message lives. Transmission line distribution is broad and most of them are spread around the geographical environment.
Power factor improvement using silicon based switching devices for changing load parameters
Authors: Kumari Popuri Rajani , Rajasri Kasula , Reddy Tadi Diwakara Subba , Sudhakar Ambarapu , Rajanna Bodapati Venkata
Published: September 2023

Systems power factor provides information on how effectively it uses the electrical power being provided to hold out real work. Losses rise as a results of poor power factor, and therefore the utility is penalized. In general, inductive loads, which are reactive in nature, make up AC loads. As a result, loads require and consume reactive power from the supply source which leads to excessive voltage drop in the line if they draw a lot of lagging current from the source, which could potentially result in the line's voltage collapsing if the drop is too high. When inductors cause a phase difference between voltage and current, the information is sent to the micro-controller, where the program takes control and activates the right number of opto-isolators interfaced to the triac silicon-based semiconductor device at its output to bring shunt capacitors into the load circuit to improve power factor to the desired range Semiconductors such as silicon or germanium are generally used for making triac. The most commonly used is silicon, due to its high abundance and the fact that it can operate at a higher temperature than germanium.
Optimal power dispatch for day-ahead power system operation considering demand elasticity
Authors: Kaikrathok Pansa , Chayakulkheeree Keerati
Published: September 2023

This paper proposes the optimal power dispatch (OPD) considering price-based demand response (PDR). In the proposed framework, the nodal spot price (NSP) is use as a price signal to the consumers. In the proposed method, the optimal real power dispatch is solved by quadratic programming (QP) to minimize the total operating cost and obtain the NSP components. Consequently, demand elasticity (DE) is applied to estimate the system demand for more accurate day-ahead operations. In the DE matrix, the self-DEs represent the consumer consumption of hour h in response to the NSP of that hour. Meanwhile, the cross-DEs represent the response of consumer consumption of hour h to the NSP of other hours. The algorithm was tested with the IEEE 30-bus system with several cases of demand elasticity. The results show that the proposed algorithm can incorporate price elasticity of demand into day-ahead scheduling and effectively minimize total operating costs. The simulation study shown that, the operating cost can be reduced by 0.33-0.695% with self-DE of -0.1~-0.2, by reducing the consumption respected to the NSP. Meanwhile, when applying cross-DE, the operating cost can be reduced by 0.015% under the same daily consumption with the consumer’s load shifting respected to NSP.
Dual axis solar tracking system
Authors: Kumar Mugachintala Dilip , Kumar Tenugu Manish , Akshay Kongari , Kumar Sowdapuram Yashwanth , Vikas Udutha
Published: September 2023

Now a days, many people use solar photovoltaic systems since they generate efficient and clean energy. Polycrystalline and monocrystalline silicon modules are currently the most widely used products in the solar industry. Aside from possessing a flawless lattice structure, a high level of material purity, a low grain boundary energy, a weak internal resistance, and a high level of efficiency, monocrystalline silicon cells also have a uniform colour and a lack of spots, which contribute to its good aesthetic appeal. By placing the solar panels at the precise angle and direction specified by the motion of the sun, the system's efficiency can be increased. The solar tracking system for this research project uses LDR sensors that are connected to a microcontroller to track the sun's horizontal and vertical axes, while DHT11 and rain sensors are used to track the weather. This study offers a method for repositioning a solar array so that it faces the sun at all times. Since solar modules effectively convert sunlight into electricity, they are helpful solutions to the problem of power generation in remote areas. A microprocessor is used in the construction of such a system to operate a motor and sensor.
Design and performance test of series underwater Savonius rotors with horizontal axis
Authors: Buana Chandra , Tangko Jumadi , Djalal Muhammad Ruswandi , Lewi Lewi , Ardaniah Ardaniah , Mukhtaram Nurrafii Al
Published: September 2023

The energy of river water flow or irrigation canals can be utilized by using a horizontal axis Savonius turbine, which converts low-speed river flow into electrical power with good design. The design of this turbine needs to pay attention to several parameters, namely, the deflector angle, the number of blades, the diameter and thickness of the blades, and the diameter and thickness of the end plates. However, the problem usually encountered is imperfect turbine construction due to the large drag force that occurs so that the power generated is low. Based on this background, it is proposed to manufacture and test the performance of a series Savonius underwater rotors with a horizontal axis. The research results found that the generator voltage without load was 25.6 V when the turbine only rotated at 47.2 rpm, whereas when under load, the average power produced was 8.5 watts with an average turbine speed of 31 rpm. The highest efficiency value on the rotor is 86.73%, with a torque value of 3.36 at a turbine speed of 29.9 rpm. This indicates that the tool can generate large torque at low speeds.
A novel voltage lifting technique of switched-inductor cell based modified LUO converter topology for water pumping system
Authors: Sweatha Aseela , Baskaran Balasubramanian , Duraipandy P.
Published: September 2023

The persistent exhaustion of traditional energy sources with their impacts on the environment has been initiating a significant interest in a selection of renewable-energy sources (RES) based water-pumping system. Among several renewable sources, solar-PV is the most promising and practical source for water-pumping applications that can be easily installed on a building's roof. The available solar-PV energy is integrated to AC electric motor through front-end DC-DC boost converter topology. Among the various DC-DC converter topologies, a novel switched-inductor type modified LUO converter has been proposed for solar-PV powered water pumping system. The proposed switched-inductor type modified LUO (SI-MLUO) converter have simple structure which delivers high voltage gain with low leakage currents, low current ripples, reduced voltage spikes, low dv/dt stress and high efficiency over the several conventional DC-DC converters. The operating modes and performance of proposed SI-MLUO converter topology is verified by using MATLAB/Simulink tool, simulation results are validated with conventional topologies.
Bidirectional controller supported inductively coupled dual buck converter based DSTATCOM with passive filterfor PQ improvement
Authors: Mangaraj Mrutyunjaya , Thakur Rohan Vijay , Mishra Sanjay Kumar
Published: September 2023

This research paper explains about the bidirectional controller (BC) supported inductively coupled dual buck converter (IC-DBC) based distributed static compensator (DSTATCOM) with passive filter (PF) for 3-ф 3-wire (3P3W) power distribution system (PDS). The most significant concern in the PDS is power quality (PQ) control. Hence, innovative approach is proposed by considering concept and benefits of BC, inductive coupled filtering transformer (IFCT), passive filter and dual buck converter. Equivalent circuit for IC-DBC based DSTATCOM is realized in view of impedance of transformer and direct coupled dual buck converter (DC-DBC) based DSTATCOM to disclose the filtering mechanism. The supremacy of the proposed DSTATCOM is introduced by comparing its simulation outcomes with DC-DBC based DSTATCOM and IC-DBC based DSTATCOM in terms of better harmonics curtailment, power factor advancement, load balancing & reduced DC link voltage compared to other approaches as per IEEE standard.
Astragaloside protects cardiomyocytes from rats with heart failure by regulating Caspase-3
Authors: Huang Gang , Zheng Nan , Huang Yinqing
Published: September 2023

The ultimate manifestation of several heart diseases is heart failure, which is closely related to cardiac insufficiency, ventricular remodeling, and cytokine system activation. This study mainly assessed whether astragaloside regulates Caspase-3 by controlling Bcl-2/Bax pathway to
protect cardiomyocytes in heart failure. Five groups were set up as model group, Bcl-2 inhibitor (ABT-199) group, Bax inhibitor (BIP-V5) group, low-dose and high-dose astragaloside group. Hematoxylin-eosin(HE) staining, CCK-8, Transwell method and flow cytometry measured histopathology of
mouse myocardial tissue, proliferation, migration and apoptosis of cardiomyocytes respectively, and pathway-related genes, proteins and Caspase-3 levels were also measure. According to HE staining, the banding and cell swelling of three groups treated with astragaloside were significantly
improved compared with model group, and the higher the concentration was, the more was significant improvement. Astragaloside inhibited Caspase-3 and Bax expressions and up-regulated Bcl-2 expression (all P < 0.05). The apoptosis of cardiomyocytes was related to Bcl-2 in the heart
failure process, and apoptosis was controlled after using Bcl-2 mimics, but inhibition of Bax also showed a consistent trend. When Bcl-2/Bax ratio was increased, Caspase-3 was down-regulated. Astragaloside can promote increased Bcl-2/Bax ratio, mediate decreased Caspase-3 level in the cardiomyocytes,
thereby inhibiting apoptosis. By increasing the concentration of astragaloside, the expression of Bcl-2/Bax can be up-regulated, which can further inhibit Caspase-3 expression, thereby reducing the damage of cardiomyocytes in heart failure tissue, and also inhibiting cell apoptosis.
Astragaloside improves asthmatic airway inflammation mediated by inhibition of early growth response-1 through S14G-humanin
Authors: Zhou Shengnan , Li Youlun
Published: September 2023

In this experiment, we explored the role of astragaloside in regulating Egr-1 through S14G-humanin on asthmatic airway inflammation. 64 juvenile Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were selected. After establishing rat asthma model, they were assigned into blank control group, astragaloside group,
S14G-Humanin group and astragaloside+S14G-Humanin group (combined group). Astragaloside group was intervened with astragaloside II 0.6 mg/kg, S14G-Humanin group was intervened with 50 μm S14G-Humanin, combined group RBSMCs were treated with astragaloside II 0.6 mg/kg and 50 μM
S14G-Humaninn. Airway responsiveness was assessed and pathological damage of lung tissue was assessed by HE staining along with analysis of inflammatory cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), inflammatory cytokines and bone-marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (rBMSCs) behaviors. Compared
to blank control, the Penh values of astragaloside group, S14G-Humanin group and combination group were increased (P <0.05) and pathological scores were lower with the lowest score in combined group (all P <0.05). The number of white blood cells, neutrophils, eosinophils,
macrophages and lymphocytes in BALF of rats in astragaloside group, S14G-Humanin group and combination group were decreased, with the lowest number in combination group (P <0.05). In addition, IL-4, IL-6, and IL-21 in astragaloside group, S14G-Humanin group and combination group
were reduced, with the lowest levels in combination group (P <0.05). RBSMCs proliferation and migration ability in treatment group was reduced with the lowest in combination group (P <0.05). After up-regulating S14G-Humanin, Egr-1 mRNA expression was elevated (P
<0.05). Astragaloside can reduce inflammatory cells and inflammatory cytokines and increase the expression of Egr-1 by regulating S14G-Humanin expression.
The mechanism of influence of kaempferol on proline-rich acidic protein 1 (PRAP1) expression after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was investigated based on sini decoction and siwu decoction
Authors: Li Jingjing , Zhu Danni , Zhang Weichen , Tao Songmei , Fan Guanghui
Published: September 2023

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a common cardiovascular disease that is characterized by accumulation of fatty deposits. Recombinant Human Proline-Rich Acidic Protein 1 (PRAP1) expression is related to prognosis of patients after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). This study
will be aimed at the treatment by the traditional chinese medicine Sini Decoction (SND) and Siwu Decoction (SWD), and investigate the influence of kaempferol in dried ginger on the postoperative coronary PCI, and further explore the mechanism of kaempferol on the expression of Proline-rich
acidic protein 1 (PRAP1) after coronary PCI. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were isolated and induced to differentiate into endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs). After identification of EPCs by immunofluorescence and angiogenesis assay, cells were divided into high concentration of SND combined
with SWD group, low concentration group, vehicle group, and negative control group. Immunofluorescence and Western blot were used to determine the expressions of β-catenin and GSK-3β as well as PRAP1 in EPCs, whilst cell migration, proliferation and adhesion abilities
were assessed. MSCs were positive for CD105 and negative for CD34 and CD45, followed by identification of EPCs with staining. Regardless of concentration, administration of SND plus SWD significantly increased EPC migration and proliferation, but decreased adhesion rate of EPCs (P <0.05).
Moreover, high concentration of SND and SWD significantly facilitated EPC growth and reduced cell adhesion (P <0.05). Importantly, the levels of PRAP1 and GSK-3β were elevated, and β-catenin decreased in the presence of SND and SWD, with high concentration
achieving more significant alterations than low concentration. EPCs were fluorescently stained and showed proliferative properties and in vitro angiogenesis. Sini Decoction and Siwu Decoction can significantly increase β-catenin expression and decrease GSK-3β
and PRAP1 expression after PCI. Sini Decoction and Siwu Decoction can also promote cell migration and cell proliferation, and significantly reduce the adhesion ability of EPCs, so as to increase new blood vessels, improve cardiac function and protect the heart.
Risk factors and prognostic relationship between EGFR gene mutation and immunotherapy-related endocrine adverse events in lung cancer
Authors: Zhang Li , Wang Yao
Published: September 2023

This study assesses risk factors of endocrine adverse events in lung cancer immunotherapy. 160 lung cancer patients who received immunotherapy between January 2020 and January 2022 were recruited as objects and general information was retrospectively analyzed. The number of cases with
endocrine-related adverse events was divided into immune-related adverse events (irAEs) group and non-irAEs group. The patients were assigned into progressive disease (PD) and non-PD group. Among the 160 patients with lung cancer immunotherapy, 54 cases (33.75%) were included in irAEs group,
106 cases (66.25%) in non-irAEs group; 23 cases (14.38%) were included in PD group, and 137 cases (85.62%) in non-PD group. Compared with non-irAEs group, PD-L1 expression (positive) was significantly higher. Meanwhile, the expression of CYFRA21-1, NSE and RAC1 in irAEs group was higher than
non-irAEs group, while miR-885-5p was lower (P <0.05). ECOG-PS score (≥3 points), number of treatment lines (third-line and above treatment), EGFR, ALK, RTK gene mutations, miR-885-5p and RAC1 were endocrine adverse events related to lung cancer immunotherapy (P <0.05).
Compared with non-PD group, the ECOG-PS score and RAC1 level in PD group were significantly higher and miR-885-5p level was lower (P <0.5). ECOG-PS score, number of treatment lines, EGFR, ALK, RTK gene mutations, and RAC1 levels were positively correlated and miR-885-5p was negatively
associated with prognosis and disease progression (P <0.05). ECOG-PS Score, number of treatment lines, EGFR, ALK, RTK mutations, and RAC1 levels were positively and miR-885-5p was negatively correlated with prognosis. The monitoring and intervention of risk factors can reduce endocrine
irAEs and improve prognosis.
Application of nanomaterials in improving the nail-breaking performance of metal jets
Authors: Meng Qingyu , Han Feng , Jiang Bonan
Published: September 2023

Modern science and technology development has put forward high requirements for armor performance. In this study, a coating based on nanocrystalline copper was proposed to further improve the mechanical properties of the coating and prolong the effective action time of the jet. Equal-diameter
angular extrusion was adopted for the grain refinement of pure copper. Cold rolling was performed to strengthen the mechanical properties of nanocrystalline copper, laying a foundation for the follow-up work. The manufacturing process of the drug-type cover was then optimized and improved,
and the two-phase theory of jet penetration was introduced to design and analyze the process in detail. Finally, simulation experiments were conducted to analyze the mechanical properties of nanocrystalline copper and the properties of the penetration process. Nanocrystalline copper had significantly
improved tensile strength, yield strength, and other properties than the original material. In particular, the tensile strength increased to 195 and 208 MPa in two directions. In the penetration simulation experiment, the shaped charge performance of nanocrystalline copper increased by about
25% compared with that of the original material. Therefore, the nanocrystalline copper synthesized by equal-diameter angle extrusion can improve the jet armor-breaking performance.
Performance study and tunnel waterproofing application of polyurethane prepolymer prepared by prepolymer and acetone combination
Authors: Yang Hui , He Qiao , Zhang Dongdong
Published: September 2023

Waterproof measures are an important guarantee to protect the tunnel structure and maintain its safe and reliable operation. With the continuous progress of science and technology, waterborne polyurethane (WPU) is widely used in various applications such as coatings and adhesives due
to its excellent mechanical properties. With the presence of hydrophilic groups, it is necessary to chemically modify PU due to its reduced performance. The PU prepolymer was prepared using the prepolymer acetone combination method and was emulsified by the high gravity strengthening technology
for a better synthetic process. The modified PU composite lotion (CL) was then prepared. When the acrylate content increased, the two parameters, i.e., the size and particle size distribution of PU CL, showed opposite trends. For instance, the size changed from 61.45 nm to 106.5 nm, and the
particle size distribution index changed from 0.255 to 0.11. Furthermore, the compressive strength of the material is 13.7 Mpa. When the acrylate content gradually increases, the material tensile strength changes from 11.9 MPa to about 6.5 MPa, and the overall elongation at break remains within
200%–250%. In the actual test of tunnel waterproofing (TW), the water absorption rate of the modified polyurethane changes slightly and is generally kept in the range of 4%–4.5%. It has a good waterproof effect, providing a new method reference for PU CL modification and TW.
Nanoparticle contrast technology-based protective effects of amiodarone catheter perfusion on cardiac injury caused by radiofrequency ablation
Authors: Huang Mingwei , Li Weiwei , Wang Yaoguo , Xu Chaoxiang
Published: September 2023

Radiofrequency ablation can damage the cardiac tissues and affect their functions. Amiodarone is a commonly used antiarrhythmic drug that protects the heart tissues. This study used nanoparticle contrast technology to explore the protective effects of amiodarone catheter perfusion on
cardiac injury caused by radiofrequency ablation. The model of atrial fibrillation (AF) was established in healthy piglets. All piglets were subjected to three-dimensional heart reconstruction with nano-computed tomography (CT) before surgery, followed by radiofrequency ablation. Subsequently,
the random number table method divided them into experimental (four piglets) and control groups (four piglets). The experimental group was treated with amiodarone catheter infusion, and the control group was the amiodarone non-intervention group. The changes in serum myoglobin (Mb), troponin
I (cTnI), and creatine kinase isoenzyme (CK-MB) in the two groups before an operation, 6 h, 12 h, and 48 h after the operation, were analyzed. The degree of injury of right atrial radiofrequency ablation was analyzed and compared between the two groups. The total time and the number of radiofrequency
ablation discharges were recorded. After 12 h of radiofrequency ablation, the levels of Mb and CK-MB in the pigs’ serum increased (P <0.05). The levels of cTnI increased 12 h after surgery (P <0.01) and became normal 48 h after surgery. The depth and width of right
atrial heart tissue injury, Mb, CK-MB, and cTnI in the experimental group were significantly lower than in the control group. After treatment, the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and cardiac index (CI) in the two groups were higher, while the left ventricular end-systolic volume
(LVESV) was lower than those before treatment. The LVEF and CI in the experimental group were higher, and LVESV was lower than those in the control group. The myocardial injury caused by radiofrequency ablation is a minor myocardial injury, which can increase the serum myocardial damage markers
to varying degrees; CK-MB, cTnI, and Mb can be used for radiofrequency catheter ablation monitoring of myocardial injury. Amiodarone catheter perfusion produces protective effects on cardiac injury caused by radiofrequency ablation. This study provides a new therapeutic method for cardiac
injury caused by radiofrequency ablation.
Clinician Champions’ Influence on Social Needs Screening Volumes in Pediatric Practices
Authors: Berman Rachel S. , Nguyen Hong-An T. , Levano Samantha R. , Fiori Kevin P.
Published: September 2023

Health systems face barriers implementing routine screening for social needs. We assessed the impact of “clinician champions” on social needs screening. Screening data were assessed at 11 pediatric primary care practices in Bronx, NY, between April 2018 and August 2021. Three intervention practices had clinician champions; 8 control practices did not. The Wald chi-square tests and Poisson regressions evaluated the relationship between screening and introduction of clinician champions. The introduction of a clinician champion was a significant predictor of screening ( P < .001). Within a practice, screening after the introduction of a clinician champion was higher than before the introduction ( P < .001). The rate of screening for practices with a clinician champion was 2.8 times higher per month than for practices without a clinician champion. Furthermore, practices with clinician champions had higher rates of screening during the pandemic. In summary, the presence of clinician champions increased social needs screening rates in pediatric primary care practices.
Pediatric Trauma During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A 3-year Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Scally Gabriel L. , Sheets Nicholas W. , Dubina Emily , Chawla-Kondal Bhani , Plurad David S.
Published: September 2023

The Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has significantly impacted the volume and types of trauma patients encountered. We performed a retrospective analysis of pediatric trauma patients <17 years old presenting within a large US health care system from 2019 to 2021. Demographics, trauma volume, injury severity, mechanism of injury, and outcomes were compared. A total of 16 966 patients, from 88 hospitals over 18 states, were included in our analysis. Pediatric traumas decreased from 2019 to 2020 and 2021. The injury severity scores (ISSs) increased from 2019 to 2020 and 2019 to 2021. Compared with 2019, more gun-related traumas occurred in both 2020 and 2021, whereas motor vehicle collisions decreased. There were additional changes in bicycle, assault, auto versus pedestrian (AVP), playground, and sports injuries. The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the volume, injury severity, and mechanism of injury of the pediatric trauma population.
Establishing Key Facts About Restrictive Housing—A Systems-Level Descriptive Analysis of Restrictive Housing and the Implications for Theory, Research, and Policy
Authors: Cochran Joshua C. , Wooldredge John , Anderson Claudia N. , Long Joshua S.
Published: September 2023

Concerns about restrictive housing are motivated in part by the assumption that as prison systems expanded and became more punitive, restrictive housing became overly routine. Limited empirical research exists, however, that quantifies its usage. The goal of this paper is twofold. First, we argue that a more detailed understanding of restrictive housing usage is required to advance theory, research, and evidence-based policy. Second, we bring data to bear on questions about the prevalence and trends in the use of the most routine forms of restrictive housing in Ohio prisons. We analyze 9 years of event history data to develop an empirical portrait of its use across the system and over time. We track how many individuals are placed and how long they are placed and we examine variation across facility characteristics. The paper concludes with a discussion focused on extending this work to investigate restrictive housing usage and impacts.
A Reappraisal of the Origins of European Integration: From Wartime Planning to the Schuman Plan
Authors: Ciappi Enrico
Published: September 2023

Thanks to its innovative supranational features, the European Coal and Steel Community is widely recognized as the cornerstone of the European integration process. This article offers an alternative history of the European Coal and Steel Community's origins by highlighting the role of transnational expertise and public diplomacy. More precisely, this study seeks to demonstrate that the policies carried out by Jean Monnet, the mastermind of European Coal and Steel Community's blueprint, originated from the plans elaborated by the New York-based think tank Council on Foreign Relations. While advising the Roosevelt and Truman administrations, the Council on Foreign Relations formed a policy network with European policymakers sharing similar political values and goals. Although the interactions between these figures have never been studied, new findings reveal that the Council on Foreign Relations–Monnet partnership proved instrumental in improving inter-Allied coordination, managing postwar recovery and framing the idea of European unity. Eventually, the Council on Foreign Relations helped Monnet to define, adjust and promote the European Coal and Steel Community Treaty draft. In this perspective, the foundation of the first European institution derived from a long-term strategic design rooted in wartime planning and transatlantic diplomatic exchanges.
A proposed method for differentiating knives from cut marks on bone: A forensic anthropological approach
Authors: Ghui Melodi , Eliopoulos Constantine , Borrini Matteo
Published: September 2023

Knife cut marks have been extensively studied in forensic literature, and the results have been beneficial in identifying both the cut mark and implement type on bone. For this study, an assessment in differentiating knife cut marks has been attempted by using sword cut mark characteristics. In addition, a flowchart was created to assist in interpreting such marks. Knives of different serrations (non-serrated, macro- and micro-serrated) were used to inflict cut marks on pig ribs with a forward and backward stab thrust. The analysis revealed that some traits adapted from previous studies applied to knife cut marks and that non-serrated and serrated marks could be distinguished accurately using the flowchart. The distinction between different types of serrated blades was not as successful. However, results show that further research and development of the flowchart can be invaluable in similar analyses.
Erasing the Red Line? National Lessons from a New York Homeowner Policy
Authors: Zewde Naomi , Edwards Raz , Bacchus Erinn
Published: September 2023

The centrality of home equity to the balance sheets of American households, and the oppressive legacy of racial exclusion from mortgage markets, compel the design of intentionally anti-racist housing policy capable of building lasting wealth for Black families. In this study, we compare the home-mortgage terms offered to middle-income Whites in the New Deal era, with a contemporary New York City policy offered in formerly redlined districts. The city's Housing Development Fund Corporation policy is for limited-income households but does not limit down payments nor qualify for federal home loans. Using mined listing data and the 2017 Panel Study of Income Dynamics, we find more than 80% of income-eligible urban Black households lack the wealth to purchase the median listing, versus 51% of Whites. Moreover, the policy's market exclusions preclude access to what is now substantial accumulated equity. Unit owners face wide-scale housing-code violations and property seizure, highlighting the limitations of “limited equity” ownership, which counteracts wealth creation. We draw two primary lessons. First, anti-racist policy cannot demand substantial financial assets. Second, financing schemes for building improvement or climate-responsive adaptation, in addition to initial purchase, should be well-tailored to family budgets and designed to deliver equity to the formerly excluded.
High-Dimensional Imputation for the Social Sciences: A Comparison of State-of-The-Art Methods
Authors: Costantini Edoardo , Lang Kyle M. , Reeskens Tim , Sijtsma Klaas
Published: September 2023

Including a large number of predictors in the imputation model underlying a multiple imputation (MI) procedure is one of the most challenging tasks imputers face. A variety of high-dimensional MI techniques can help, but there has been limited research on their relative performance. In this study, we investigated a wide range of extant high-dimensional MI techniques that can handle a large number of predictors in the imputation models and general missing data patterns. We assessed the relative performance of seven high-dimensional MI methods with a Monte Carlo simulation study and a resampling study based on real survey data. The performance of the methods was defined by the degree to which they facilitate unbiased and confidence-valid estimates of the parameters of complete data analysis models. We found that using lasso penalty or forward selection to select the predictors used in the MI model and using principal component analysis to reduce the dimensionality of auxiliary data produce the best results.
Mycetoma case series in Somalia
Authors: Doğan Ahmet , Ali Ahmed Mohamed , Ali Mukhtar Abdullahi , Abdullahi İsmail Mohamoud
Published: September 2023

Mycetoma is a suppurative chronic bacterial or fungal disease inoculated into the body by minor trauma which may penetrate from subcutaneous tissue to bone. Although the lower extremities are most commonly affected, rare forms can also be seen from time to time. The diagnostic triad of swelling in the affected area, multiple sinus formation, and purulent discharge with grains are typical. Definitive diagnosis is made by isolation of the causative pathogen, radiologic imaging, and histopathologic examination. Antifungal and antibacterial options are applied together with surgery. Our aim in this case series is to report and analyze 10 rare cases of mycetoma.
Accidental flexicurity or workfare? Navigating ride-share work and Australia’s welfare system
Authors: Veen Alex , Barratt Tom , Goods Caleb , Baird Marian
Published: September 2023

This mixed-methods study explores the intersection of the ‘gig’ economy and welfare state in Australia, exploring how ride-share work has provided a pathway into paid work for three traditionally disadvantaged groups: individuals with disability, with caring responsibilities, or aged 45 and over. It examines these workers’ motivations for the work and explores how the welfare system shapes their experiences. The study finds push factors, such as past labour market discrimination and limited alternatives, and pull factors, like the relative flexibility of the work, which allows for the accommodation of planned and unplanned absences, are driving individuals into the ‘gig’ economy. The authors identify a duality about these experiences. On the one hand, the work represents a de facto form of ‘workfare’. On the other, the welfare system is cushioning the work’s job and income insecurity, providing individuals with flexibility and security unavailable elsewhere, an unintended policy outcome the authors label ‘accidental flexicurity’.
Adult Laryngeal Pleomorphic Rhabdomyosarcoma: A Rare Entity
Authors: Cai Hua , Chen Shan , Zhang Zhuo-Ya , Gao Bei-Bei , Ding Yan-Yan , Liu Bang-Hua , Wang Wen-Wen
Published: September 2023

Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a rare and aggressive cancerous tumor that arises from embryonal mesenchymal cells with skeletal muscle differentiation, and it is exceedingly rare that occurs specifically in the larynx. To date, only 22 instances of laryngeal pleomorphic RMSs have been documented in adults. Consequently, there is limited information available to assist healthcare professionals in effectively handling RMS in the larynx of adult patients. Here, we present an uncommon occurrence involving a 45-year-old man who experienced progressive hoarseness and received a diagnosis of pleomorphic RMS affecting the larynx. Pleomorphic RMS had been pathologically diagnosed after a vertical hemilaryngectomy. Following the surgical intervention, the patient underwent chemotherapy and radiation therapy. As of now, there have been no indications of tumor recurrence.
Which Identities Are Concealable? Individual Differences in Concealability
Authors: Le Forestier Joel M. , Page-Gould Elizabeth , Chasteen Alison L.
Published: September 2023

Concealment is a common and consequential identity management strategy. But which identities are concealable? In three studies ( n = 468; obs = 4,068), we find substantial individual differences in which identities people experience as concealable. These individual differences in concealability manifest as Person × Identity interactions, such that people experience varying levels of concealability for each of their individual identities. In two additional studies ( n = 465; obs = 3,784), we find that these individual differences predict the frequency and efficacy of concealment. We conclude that it is inaccurate to label entire categories of identities as either concealable or conspicuous and urge intergroup researchers to consider people’s unique experiences of concealability. Pre-registrations for Studies 1 to 4 and open materials, code, and data for all studies are available on the Open Science Framework: https://osf.io/m95qu/ .
Pakistan’s Opioid Squeeze: Impacts of Taliban Edicts, Indian Synthetics and Chinese Regulations
Authors: Lassi Nicholas
Published: September 2023

This study examines how the Taliban’s opium poppy eradication edict and the westward shift in illicit fentanyl production from China to India potentiates an opioid squeeze on Pakistan from its east-west flanks, influencing Pakistan’s opioid production, distribution and use. As opioid output sputters in Afghanistan, while Indian chemists increasingly normalise illicit fentanyl production in South Asia, opportunistic Pakistani chemists will be incentivised to supply synthetic opioids to high-demand international markets, just as Pakistani farmers supply opium and heroin to international clients. This convergence has ramifications for Pakistani law, drug enforcement and public health, as domestic production increases domestic access to synthetic opioids. The article conducts an empirical examination of current trends in South Asian opioid production, distribution and use, along with an exegesis of the legal and regulatory systems in Pakistan, Afghanistan and China. This study also details how the Pakistani government should respond to this challenge legislatively, foremost through blanket ban of fentanyl and its precursors. Pakistan can reduce domestic use through evidence-based treatment programmes, including discrete and confidential treatment administered by females to female users, opioid substitution therapy, safe needle exchange programmes, culturally sensitive drug awareness campaigns, and increased data collection to detect geographic hotspot locations of opioid use and overdoses.
Kashmiri Politics: Pandit Prem Nath Bazaz and the Struggle for Inclusive Nationalism, 1930–1940
Authors: Dar Abdul Maajid
Published: September 2023

This article examines the vision of Kashmiri nationalism articulated by Pandit Prem Nath Bazaz, one of the critical contemporaries of Sheikh Abdullah in the 1930s. While scholarly writings and dominant discourses on Kashmiri politics have largely ignored Bazaz, the article argues that Bazaz was one of the chief architects of the introduction and popularisation of an inclusive nationalist narrative in the valley, especially the transformation of the religiously-oriented Muslim Conference into the secular-socialist National Conference. Based on examination of the unexplored writings of Bazaz and his contemporaries, collected from Srinagar-based archives, the article delineates how and to what large extent Bazaz’s politics and ideas influenced Kashmiri politics. These original sources are largely in Urdu and all translations into English are mine.