bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental investigation and simulation analysis of cast-steel joints under vertical pressure
Authors: Li Zhihao , Zhang Yizhong , Du Wenfeng , Zhu Liming
Published: March 2024

The joint made of cast steel is frequently utilized within a treelike column structure to ensure a smooth transition. It is of great significance in ensuring the overall structural safety, but currently, the mechanical property and bearing capacity of this type of joint cannot be fully understood. This study delves into the load-bearing characteristics of such a cast-steel joint featuring three branches. Initially, a comprehensive model of the cast-steel joint, sourced from a practical engineering, underwent vertical load testing. Detailed scrutiny of stress distribution and vertical displacement of the tested joint was conducted based on the experimental outcomes. Subsequently, a finite element model of the tested joint was constructed using SolidWorks and subjected to analysis via ANSYS. The numerical findings were juxtaposed with experimental data and extrapolated to encompass other parametric scenarios. Ultimately, a regression analysis method was employed to derive a calculation formula for the load-carrying capacity of branch-bearing cast-steel joints. This formula aids in estimating geometric parameters and load-bearing capacity during the preliminary design phase. Comparative analysis reveals a substantial concurrence among experimental, finite element analysis, and formula-based predictive outcomes.
Personalized Learning Path Generation Based On Neuro-cognitive Collaborative Filtering
Authors: Qu Yuxian , Wang Lei , Zhang Huanhuan , Li Wei , Zhao Zhiqiang
Published: March 2024

With the rapid development of information technology in education, teaching resources have increased dramatically and the teaching environment has improved. However, resource overload and learning disorientation are challenges faced by learners. This study proposes a personalized learning path generation model based on neurocognitive collaborative filtering technology. By analyzing learners' personalized static parameters and dynamic learning behavior data, explicit and implicit weak knowledge points are identified, and optimized learning paths are generated. The empirical results show that the method significantly improves learners' learning outcomes and satisfaction over traditional methods. This study promotes the development of personalized learning design and effective learning support systems with important implications for educational practice.
Application of Improved Unet Network in the Recognition and Segmentation of Pneumoconiosis CT Images
Authors: Zhou Zhengsong , Li Xin , Ji Hongbo , Xu Xuanhan , Chang Zongqi , Wu Keda , Song Yangyang , Kao Mingkun , Chen Hongjun , Wu Dongsheng , Zhang Tao
Published: March 2024

Background
Pneumoconiosis has a significant impact on the quality of patient survival. This study aims to evaluate the performance and application value of improved Unet network technology in the recognition and segmentation of lesion areas in lung CT pneumoconiosis images.
Methods
A total of 1212 lung CT images of patients with pneumoconiosis were retrospectively included. The improved Unet network was used to identify and segment the CT image regions of the patients' lungs, and the image data of the granular regions of the lungs were processed by the watershed and region growing algorithms. After random sorting, 848 data were selected into the training set and 364 data into the testing set. The experimental dataset was augmented by data, and then model training and testing were carried out to examine the segmentation performance and compare the segmentation results with traditional Unet networks.
Results
In the segmentation of lung CT granular region, the improved Unet network innovated the network structure in a lightweight way, optimized the residual block, and used GeLu function to replace ReLu function. The three evaluation indexes of Dice similarity coefficient, positive prediction value (PPV), and sensitivity coefficient(SC) reached 0.848, 0.884, and 0.895, respectively. Compared with the traditional Unet network, the improved Unet network was improved by 7.6%, 13.3% and 3.9%, respectively, while the segmentation performance was also better than the traditional Unet network.
Conclusions
The improved Unet network proposed in this study shows good performance in the recognition and segmentation of abnormal regions in lung CT images of pneumoconiosis patients, and is an appropriate method for the recognition and segmentation of abnormal regions in lung CT images, showing potential application value for assisting clinical decision-making.
Oral cryotherapy by Kangfuxin for prophylaxis of oral mucositis in patients undergoing autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Chen Dan , Li Fang-fang , Yao Hao , Zhu Hong-mei , Wang Xiao , Zhang Xiao-mei , Ma Ting , Zhang Hui , Ma Yan-qiong , Wang Xin-miao , Wang Yong-hua , Yi Hai
Published: March 2024

Oral mucositis is a common occurrence in autogeneic transplant patients, and there is currently no effective treatment method. This study aims to explore the preventive and delaying effects of oral cryotherapy by Kangfuxin (KFX) on oral mucositis in patients undergoing autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation(auto-HSCT). A randomized grouping method was employed to select 86 patients who underwent autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in the department between January 2020 and August 2023. The patients were divided into a control group (40 cases) and an experimental group (46 cases) randomly. Cold physiological saline mouthwash was used for the prevention and treatment of oral mucositis in the control group, with intermittent rinsing during chemotherapy drug infusion and throughout the chemotherapy process. The experimental group used KFX, starting 30 minutes before chemotherapy and with intermittent rinsing during chemotherapy. The two groups were compared in terms of oral mucositis grading, pain scores, and general patient conditions, and observations and records were made. Results: The results showed that the experimental group effectively prevented the occurrence of oral mucositis compared to the control group, with a higher proportion of Grade 0 oral mucositis. The proportion of Grade III-IV in the control group was 32.5%, lower than the experimental group’s 10.8%, with statistically significant differences between the two groups (P < 0.05). The experimental group had fewer days of using lidocaine mouthwash and lower pain scores, showing statistically significant differences (P < 0.05). Conclusion: In conclusion, KFX oral cryotherapy has promising prospects as a dressing for full-thickness wound healing. It has a significant effect on the oral cryotherapy of patients undergoing auto-HSCT. It effectively prevents and delays the occurrence of oral mucositis, alleviates its severity, pain, and discomfort, and improves the general patient condition.
Investigation of the reproducibility and repeatability of commercial SERS substrates
Authors: Liu Qiqian , Azziz Aicha , Majdinasab Marjan , Arib Celia , Xiang Yang , Fu Weiling , Amiard Frédéric , Edely Mathieu , Chapelle Marc Lamy de la
Published: March 2024

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is a powerful tool for the observation, the detection and the identification of chemical or biological species at low concentrations due to it’s high sensitivity, specific fingerprinting spectra and real-time detection. However, an important task is to define a suitable and reliabale protocol to ensure the reproducibility and repeatability of the SERS measurements in teh framework of SERS sensors.
In this paper , a special protocol of measurement have been applied to a commercial SERS Hamamatsu substrate from Hamamatsu Photonics by using diluted solution of 4-mercaptobenzoic acid (MBA) at excitation wavelengths 633nm. This protocol consists in recording 25 SERS maps equally distributed on the whole surface substrate. For each map, 16 spectra have been measure to calculate an average SERS signal of the map. A large set of recorded data for a total of 400 spectra have been collected and analyzed by using the integrated intensities of MBA bands to determine the reproducibility and repeatability of the substrate. This protocol could be applied to other substrates and to precisely evaluate their sensing performances.
Mechanochemical degradation of lindane – example of “self-healing” ability of some types of soil
Authors: Ilić Mila , Dević Gordana J. , Milić Jelena S. , Kašanin-Grubin Milica , Nedić Natalija Ž. , S Petrović P.
Published: March 2024

Halogenated persistent organic pollutants (POPs), which are purposefully rendered obsolete, are kept in stockpiles around the world, often in hazardous conditions. They pose a significant risk to both the environment and human health due to their proclivity to migrate and accumulate in the biosphere. Lindane is a dangerous substance that was previously used as a pesticide. Many countries have banned it due to its negative impact on the environment and human health. Lindane is particularly dangerous because it can linger in the environment for extended periods of time and accumulate in the food chain. Lindane contamination can occur from a number of sources, including contaminated soil, water, and air. Lindane can degrade via a variety of mechanisms, including biodegradation, photodegradation, hydrolysis, and chemical oxidation. Mechanochemical treatment has demonstrated the ability to degrade pollutants in both pure pollutants and contaminated soils. Adding co-milling agents to aid in the breakdown of organochlorine chemicals is the most common method of mechanochemically treating contaminated soil. Our research into two types of synthetic soil and genuine soil samples from different locations reveals a compelling relationship between the chemical composition of the soil and the extent of lindane breakdown, especially at low to moderate concentrations. This phenomenon, aptly dubbed "soil's self-healing ability," has far-reaching implications for cost-effective remediation practices. Knowing the magnitude of this impact also encourages economic revitalization, establishing soil remediation efforts as a dynamic engine of positive transformation.
Bibliometric analysis of global scientific literature on the application and implementation of artificial intelligence in higher education
Authors: Espinoza-Hurtado Oswaldo G. E. , Bastidas-Santivañez Juan Diego , Sarmiento-Peralta Giusseppe
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to analyze the bibliometric characteristics of global scientific literature on the application and implementation of artificial intelligence in higher education. A bibliometric study was conducted using a search strategy applied in Scopus. Productivity, visibility, and impact indicators were estimated using the SciVal tool. The majority of the world's scientific production on the subject belongs to the field of computer science and engineering. Additionally, high-impact journals play a significant role in dissemination. Articles published in recent years received higher citations. China and India have institutions actively contributing to productivity, although it is essential to strengthen international, inter-institutional, and interprofessional cooperation to promote and enhance the use of artificial intelligence in teaching and learning processes in higher education.
Development of Microwave Broadband Transparent Metamaterial Absorber Based on ITO
Authors: Wang Chenglong , Ji Shijun , Jin Dongjun , Zhao Ji
Published: March 2024

In this paper, a multilayer optically transparent metamaterial absorber (OTMA) with microwave broadband absorption properties based on indium tin oxide (ITO) and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is designed. The electrical resonance and magnetic resonance generated by the ITO resonance structure of the upper and middle layers make the absorption rate of OTMA exceed 90% at 6.2 GHz-24.6 GHz. The proposed OTMA has polarization insensitivity and wide-angle absorption properties. The experimental results verified that the OTMA has good absorption properties. The absorber has potential application prospects in stealth device windows and electromagnetic shielding structures.
Consultation frequency for older patients in general practice: A nationwide cohort study of patient- and practice related factors
Authors: Olsen Jonas , Wehberg Sonja , Waldorff Frans Boch , Henriksen Daniel Pilsgaard , Lykkegaard Jesper
Published: March 2024

Background Older patients account for most contacts in general practice. The contacts can be divided into five types: Face-to-face, telephone, e-mail, home visits, and chronic care reviews. Variations in contact types and frequencies across general practices can be caused by differences in patient populations, local circumstances, and individual preferences.
This study aims to analyse how patient and general practice characteristics are associated with the frequency of consultation types in general practice for older patients as well as to analyse variation in consultation frequency.
Methods Register-based nationwide cohort study of all Danish citizens aged ≥75 years in 2017-2021. The practices’ frequencies of daytime consultations were analysed using zero-inflated Poisson regression adjusted for patient population characteristics. Funnel plots were used to assess variation in daytime consultations.
Results Danish general practices had on average 10 total annual consultations per citizen aged ≥75 years, comprising 3.7 face-to-face-, 3.3 telephone-, 2.2 e-mail consultations, 0.61 home visits, and 0.38 chronic care reviews. The largest total numbers of consultations were found for patients with 10+ unique drugs, high use of home healthcare services, nursing home residency, and high multimorbidity. Non-western ethnicity was associated with fewer consultations and non-attendance. Nine percent of general practices showed larger variation in total annual consultations than could be explained by chance after adjusting for patient factors.
Conclusion Age, multimorbidity, and polypharmacy were key drivers of consultation frequency. Nine percent of general practices provide more or fewer yearly consultations than expected based on population characteristics.
Trial registration The study is based on a published protocol July 27, 2023: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2023-073229
Advancing Porphyra linearis (Rhodophyta, Bangiales) culture: low cost artificial seawater, nitrate supply, photosynthetic activity and energy dissipation
Authors: Pereira Débora Tomazi , Korbee Nathalie , Vega Julia , Figueroa Félix L.
Published: March 2024

Fertilizer use in agriculture and aquaculture significantly contributes to nitrate-rich effluent discharge into aquatic environments. Porphyra's high surface area/volume enables efficient nutrient assimilation. This study aimed to identify a cost-effective, efficient artificial seawater medium for Porphyra linearis cultivation and determine the optimal nitrate concentration to enhance photosynthetic activity. P. linearis was grown in three different salt media, with photosynthetic and biochemical parameters assessed, showing no differences. The nitrate experiment (7 days) using low-cost salt and varied concentration (0 to 6.5 mM) revealed optimal nitrate uptake at 3 and 5 mM, while 6.5 mM indicated saturation/toxicity. The phycobiliproteins contents did not increase compared to the 0 mM, but exhibited greater functionality, as evidenced by the enhanced photosynthetic parameters. Chlorophyll a peaked in 3 mM, whereas lutein and β-carotene in 0 and 3 mM. The thalli turned greenish and appeared to have degraded branches under 0 mM. Growth rate was the same under all nitrate concentration and higher than under 0 mM. The presence of nitrate increased ETRin situ and ETRmax, whereas the absence decreased the range between optimal irradiance for photoinhibition (EoptETR) and saturated irradiance for photosynthesis (EkETR) and between saturated irradiance for non-photochemical quenching (EkNPQ) and EkETR, suggesting that under more nitrate available the algae dissipate less energy. P. linearis showed a wide range of nitrate use without variation in pigment composition in contrast to photosynthetic capacity. The 1.5 and 3 mM in cultivation significantly enhance the photosynthetic response of P. linearis, supporting their potential application in IMTA and bioremediation.
A Place of Encounter: Health and Social Care Workers' Perspectives on Public Gathering Spaces for People Using Drugs
Authors: Bjønness Stig , Lie Amalie Jøntvedt , Grønnestad Trond
Published: March 2024

In the context of addressing substance use issues in urban areas, public gathering places for individuals who use drugs play a multifaceted role, serving as sites of belonging, support, and potential criminal activity. As these gathering places, often referred to as open drug scenes, are associated with drug dealing, violence, and harm, numerous attempts to close or control them by law enforcement have been made, resulting in increased violence, stigma, and risk of overdoses. This qualitative study explores the experiences of health and social workers regarding a public gathering place, referred to as “the Bench,” in a medium-sized Norwegian city. Through semi-structured interviews with thirteen participants representing various support agencies, four thematic areas emerged: 1) Belonging and a gateway to support and services, 2) Balancing user autonomy at the Bench and systems support, 3) The role of a centralized location, and 4) The preventive role of support workers at the Bench. While the Bench fosters a sense of community and provides access to vital services, concerns about illicit activities persist due to its visibility. Nevertheless, its central location facilitates outreach efforts and ensures easy access to support services. The study underscores the preventive role of healthcare and social workers in stabilizing the environment and mitigating conflicts. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of central locations for public gathering places, emphasizing the proximity to low-threshold services for overdose prevention. Despite some challenges, the Bench represents a crucial venue for establishing relationships and providing assistance to individuals who use drugs, contributing to harm reduction efforts in the community.
Intelligent Tourism for a Fragile Ecosystem: Promoting Sustainability in the Santurbán Paramo with Industry 4.0
Authors: Flórez Marco , Carrillo Eduardo , Linares Jhon , Mendes Francisco
Published: March 2024

The Paramo de Santurbán in Colombia, a unique ecosystem, is under threat from mining activities and the challenge of sustainable water management. This study investigates tourism as a potential solution, highlighting the importance of understanding tourism stakeholders' impact on the ecosystem's sustainable development. Utilizing the MACTOR software, the analysis included a wide range of stakeholders—thematic experts, tourism entrepreneurs, and governance professionals. Findings indicate that various stakeholders, notably the government, local communities, and tourism entrepreneurs, significantly influence the Paramo. The government is crucial in ensuring tourism's sustainability through regulation, whereas local communities, although benefiting from tourism, require protection against its potential negative impacts. These insights are instrumental for strategic tourism planning and promotion in the Santurbán Paramo, guiding decision-makers towards sustainable ecosystem management.
Hybrid lignin-silica as a green adsorbent towards methylene blue in batch and fixed-bed column
Authors: Pham Co D. , Tran Khoi D. , Le Phung K.
Published: March 2024

The number of research regarding the ‘lignin-silica complex first’ approach focusing on the synthesis of a long polymer with SiO2 distributed on the surface has been increasing significantly in recent years. Despite being considered an abundant source for the recovery of this hybrid, black liquor has not been widely employed in the synthesis of lignin/silica-derived materials. In order to propose a solution to utilize the waste liquid from the cellulose production process instead of current synthesized silica-containing compounds in the synthesis of highly effective materials for environmental treatment, this study aims to produce a lignin-silica hybrid (LS) from black liquor generated from rice straw alkaline treatment via sol-gel process. The difference in the material characteristics determined by XRF, FT-IR, SEM, and isothermal nitrogen adsorption at 77K led to the different capacities in methylene blue (MB) adsorption. The SiO2 content in the material increased with respect to pH value, which resulted in a higher specific surface area (SBET). Specifically, the greater SBET belonged to LS recovered at pH = 9 (LS9) with a value of 166.5 m2/g. Additionally, the presence of numerous negatively charged groups (i.e., COO−, OH) and silanol in the LS structure resulted in a strong affinity towards MB, a cationic dye. LS9 exhibited a better performance in MB removal with a capacity of nearly 50 mg/g in comparison with the value of LS7, which was around 45 mg/g. Along with the proposed adsorption mechanism, kinetic adsorption, isothermal adsorption, and fixed-bed column adsorption were also investigated to interpret the adsorption processes.
Liner Propagation Method Influences Growth of Container Grown Bottlebrush
Authors: Pannkuk Tim , Hopkins Kaitlin
Published: March 2024

Bottlebrush (Callistemon vinimalis) is a widely propagated and cultivated ornamental large shrub with large red bottlebrush-like flowers. Traditional clonal propagation using stem cuttings may be replaced with tissue cultured liners. In this study, we established a container-grown field experiment of bottlebrush ‘Little John’ using liners propagated from both rooted stem cuttings and tissue culture. Growth index was recorded by propagation method periodically through the 34-week period, and both fresh and dry weights of roots and shoots recorded at experiment’s end. Final growth index of plants grown from tissue cultured liners were significantly greater than growth index of plants started from rooted stem cuttings. Both fresh and dry root weight means were significantly greater in plants propagated by tissue culture. Further testing of containerized bottlebrush production, through the flowering stage, will better determine whether tissue-cultured liners accelerate production time vs. liners from stem cuttings.
Quantum parameter estimation with many-body fermionic systems and application to the Hall effect
Authors: Giraud Olivier , Goerbig Mark-Oliver , Braun Daniel
Published: March 2024

We calculate the quantum Fisher information for a generic many-body fermionic system in a pure state depending on a parameter. We discuss the situations where the parameter is imprinted in the basis states, in the state coefficients, or both. In the case where the parameter dependence of coefficients results from a Hamiltonian evolution, we derive a particularly simple expression for the quantum Fisher information. We apply our findings to the quantum Hall effect, and evaluate the quantum Fisher information associated with the optimal measurement of the magnetic field for a system in the ground state of the effective Hamiltonian. The occupation of electron states with high momentum enforced by the Pauli principle leads to a ``super-Heisenberg’’ scaling of the sensitivity with a power law that depends on the geometry of the sensor.
Current approaches to the management of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency in adults
Authors: Shishkova V. N.
Published: March 2024

The issue of optimal management of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency is very topical. The role of vitamin D in the regulation of not only phosphorus-calcium metabolism, but also the relationship between its deficiency status and the risk of developing various diseases, including autoimmune, metabolic, oncological, cardiovascular, etc., has been well studied. Studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency are detected in 84.3% of examined population aged 18 to 50 years in Russia as a whole. According to the results of studies, the level of consumption of vitamin D foods in our country does not ensure adequate vitamin D intake, and the only effective method for managing its deficiency and maintaining 25(OH)D concentrations at the proper level may be supplemental vitamin D intake in the form of drugs or food additives. Given the importance of maintaining adequate vitamin D levels and high prevalence rates of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency in people of different ages and genders in various geographical regions of our country, there is a growing interest in options for timely and adequate therapy. Domestic experts have developed various therapeutic options for the management of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency. A single dose of 300,000 IU of oral cholecalciferol once weekly, which proved to be effective and safe for managing vitamin D deficiency in adults is the best option from the perspective of medication adherence and patient convenience. Presently, the first high-dose drug, a matrix tablet containing 50,000 IU colecalciferol, has been granted a marketing authorization in Russia. The drug is indicated for the treatment of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency.
Estimating drinking water turbidity using images collected by a smartphone camera
Authors: Jantarakasem Chotiwat , Sioné Laure , Templeton Michael R.
Published: March 2024

The lack of robust water quality data in drinking water services in many low-income settings can be attributed to inadequate funding for regular monitoring using analytical equipment. Turbidity is an indicator that is relatively quick and easy to measure; however, it still requires a turbidimeter and a trained operator. This study developed an entire smartphone camera-based application to measure turbidity in drinking water, removing both the need for external equipment and skilled labour. The application was created using a convolutional neural network, able to classify water samples into eight turbidity bins ranging from 0 to 40 NTU. The turbidity of the samples was created using formazine and kaolin clay suspensions. The in-built camera of a smartphone was used to capture images of water samples with known turbidity values. This algorithm was then embedded in a smartphone application, thereby providing an easy-to-use tool for users to estimate turbidity. Specifically, the protocol for using this application was developed with the intention that it will be used in low-resource settings by laypersons. Formazine samples achieved a turbidity classification accuracy of 98.7%, while kaolin clay samples achieved 90.9% accuracy using this method, which provides an encouraging proof of concept, as justification for further testing and improvements.
Decision trees in cost–benefit analysis for flood risk management plans
Authors: Napolitano Jacopo , Di Francesco Massimo , Sechi Giovanni Maria
Published: March 2024

According to the European Directive 2007/60/CE, flood risk evaluation should include a cost–benefit analysis (CBA) on a long-term time horizon to evaluate the impact of mitigation measures. The standard CBA assumes to know in advance the events observed in the time horizon and a priori compares all mitigation measures by an economic metric. No change is supposed to be made to these measures throughout the time horizon. This modus operandi is not appropriate in the domain of flood risk management because several conditions are uncertain when the CBA is made (e.g., urban policies). This article faces these challenges by the integration of cost–benefit analysis and decision trees, to prescribe mitigation measures under uncertainty on the budget for mitigation actions because their funding can be modified after the conclusion of the CBA. The former integration is discussed in the real case of the lowland valley of the Coghinas River (Sardinia, Italy), for which the classical CBA compared five mitigation measures of infrastructural works. The integration into the decision tree also allows evaluation of mitigation measures with changes in infrastructural works and a lamination action. The outcomes advise decreasing the maximum storage level and increase the peak lamination.
A hybrid deep learning approach for streamflow prediction utilizing watershed memory and process-based modeling
Authors: Yifru Bisrat Ayalew , Lim Kyoung Jae , Bae Joo Hyun , Park Woonji , Lee Seoro
Published: March 2024

Accurate streamflow prediction is essential for optimal water management and disaster preparedness. While data-driven methods’ performance often surpasses process-based models, concerns regarding their ‘black-box’ nature persist. Hybrid models, integrating domain knowledge and process modeling into a data-driven framework, offer enhanced streamflow prediction capabilities. This study investigated watershed memory and process modeling-based hybridizing approaches across diverse hydrological regimes – Korean and Ethiopian watersheds. Following watershed memory analysis, the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) was calibrated using the recession constant and other relevant parameters. Three hybrid models, incorporating watershed memory and residual error, were developed and evaluated against standalone long short-term memory (LSTM) models. Hybrids outperformed the standalone LSTM across all watersheds. The memory-based approach exhibited superior and consistent performance across training, evaluation periods, and regions, achieving 17–66% Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency coefficient improvement. The residual error-based technique showed varying performance across regions. While hybrids improved extreme event predictions, particularly peak flows, all models struggled at low flow. Korean watersheds’ significant prediction improvements highlight the hybrid models’ effectiveness in regions with pronounced temporal hydrological variability. This study underscores the importance of selecting a specific hybrid approach based on the desired objectives rather than solely relying on statistical metrics that often reflect average performance.
Percutaneous Secundum Atrial Septal Defect Closure: Failure Rate and Procedural Predictors
Authors: Yuwono Elien , Gunawijaya Eka , Yantie Ni Putu Veny Kartika
Published: March 2024

Background: Percutaneous atrial septal defect (ASD) closure is one of therapeutic options for patients with a suitable ASD anatomy, however in developing countries, the exact figure and procedural characteristics remain unknown. Therefore, this study was conducted to identify the failure rate and procedural predictors of the percutaneous ASD closure.Materials and methods: A retrospective study using a database of all patients undergoing percutaneous ASD closure was conducted between March 2010 to November 2023. Patients who developed a pulmonary hypertensive crisis during the procedure were excluded. Procedural and echocardiographic parameter were measured and analyzed.Results: A total of 112 samples were included in this study, 74.1% were female and 55.36% were pediatric patients. The failure rate was 12.5% (n=14) with diameter index was higher in the failed group. Unpaired T-test revealed that ASD size was one of the predictor failure in pediatric patients (mean diameter: 24.7±6.46 mm vs. 16.36±5.94 mm, p=0.001). There were no statistically significant variations in rim diameters, while compared with all patients with appropriate rims (rim ≥7mm), the failure rate was higher in patients with two rims measuring between 5.9 and 6.9 mm and rims less than 5 mm. Two patients presented with device embolization and required surgical device removal.Conclusion: The failure rate of percutaneous ASD closure was 12.5%. A larger ASD increases the risk of failure of percutaneous closure in pediatric patients. Furthermore, patient with 5-6.9 mm on two or more rims as well as those with rim less than 5 mm, have a higher failure rate.Keywords: secundum atrial septal defect, percutaneous closure, failure rate
Exploration of the Mechanisms Underlying Yu's Enema Formula in Treating
Ulcerative Colitis by Blocking the RhoA/ROCK Pathway based on Network
Pharmacology, High-performance Liquid Chromatography Analysis, and
Experimental Verification
Authors: Liu Binbin , Zhang Jie , Wang Xiaoqi , Ye Wei , Yao Jiaming
Published: March 2024

Background:

The traditional Chinese medicine formula, Yu's Enema Formula (YEF), has demonstrated
potential in the treatment of Ulcerative Colitis (UC).

Objective:

This study aimed to unveil the anti-UC mechanisms of YEF.

Methods:

Utilizing public databases, we obtained YEF and UC-related targets. GO and KEGG analyses were
conducted via clusterProfiler and Reactome. The STRING database facilitated the construction of the PPI network,
and hub targets were selected using cytoHubba. We used R software for differential expression and correlation
analyses, and molecular docking was performed with PyMOL and AutoDock. HPLC analysis identified
the compounds in YEF. For in vivo validation, a UC rat model was employed.

Results and Discussion:

495 YEF-UC overlapping targets were identified. GO and KEGG analyses indicated
enrichment in exogenous stimuli response, peptide response, positive MAPK cascade regulation, interleukin-
related signaling, and the TLR4 cascade. Hub targets included CTNNB1, JUN, MAPK1, MAPK3, SRC,
STAT3, TLR4, TP53, and RELA, which were often interconnected. Molecular docking revealed quercetin's
strong binding affinity with CTNNB1, MAPK1, MAPK3, SRC, STAT3, TLR4, and TP53, consistent with
HPLC analysis. In vivo experiments suggested that YEF has the potential to alleviate UC symptoms and protect
the intestinal mucosal barrier by inhibiting the RhoA/ROCK pathway.

Conclusion:

YEF may safeguard the intestinal mucosal barrier in UC by targeting CTNNB1, MAPK1, MAPK3,
SRC, STAT3, TLR4, and TP53, while blocking the RhoA/ROCK pathway.
Fuzzy Modeling to Personalized Nutritional Menu
Authors: El Moutaouakil Karim , Ahourag Abdellah , Belhabib Fatima , Hammoumi Aayah , Patriciu Alina-Mihaela , Chellak Saliha , Baizri Hicham
Published: March 2024

Background:

While most healthy diets can help control the progression of disease,
they can fail in the long term for many factors. Patients abandon the diet altogether after a
while because it is too restrictive or the foods are unappealing; still, others engage in less physical
activity because they consume fewer calories. What's more, almost all plans are based on
optimization models. These models produce statistical diets offering limited choices to users,
and a small substitution can call the whole diet into question.

Objective:

This article develops an intelligent system for generating flexible nutritional menus
that each person can adopt to their environment and dietary preferences (food availability,
price, patient eating habits, etc.). The system implements mathematical fuzzy optimization
models and constraint satisfaction programming.

Methods and Materials:

First, the Moroccon foods were decomposed using fuzzy Cmeans.
Next, the artificial foods, formed by the centers, were introduced into a fuzzy mathematical optimization
diet model, which controlled the total glycemic load and met the World Health Organization
(WHO) and Dietary Guidelines for Americans (GDA) recommendations (requirements
for personalized menu). Then, we used a genetic algorithm strategy to generate optimal
serving sizes and to build a nutritional menu based on the groups formed. To help patients
choose customized diets, the menu was transformed into a constraint satisfaction programming
model.

Results:

The proposed strategy was applied to Moroccan foods, experimental results show that
all diets offer a wide range of choices to users and that substitutions comply with WHO and
GDA recommendations.

Conclusion:

The suggested scheme has been applied to Moroccan foods; experimental findings
demonstrate that all diets provide users with a wide variety of options that keeps consumers
on their diet.
Repurposing of Compounds from Streptomyces spp. as Potential Inhibitors of Aminoacyltransferase FemA: An Essential Drug Target against Drug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Goodarzi Narjes Noori , Shahbazi Behzad , Khiavi Elham Haj Agha Gholizadeh , Asforooshani Mahshid Khazani , Abed Sahar , Badmasti Farzad
Published: March 2024

Background:

Drug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus represents a substantial
healthcare challenge worldwide, and its range of available therapeutic options continues to diminish
progressively. Thus, this study aimed to identify potential inhibitors against FemA, a
crucial protein involved in the cell wall biosynthesis of S. aureus.

background:

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus represents a substantial healthcare challenge worldwide, and its range of available therapeutic options continues to diminish progressively.

Materials and Methods:

The screening process involved a comprehensive structure-based virtual
screening on the StreptomDB database to identify ligands with potential inhibitory effects
on FemA using AutoDock Vina. The most desirable ligands with the highest binding affinity
and pharmacokinetic properties were selected. Two ligands with the highest number of hydrogen
bonds and hydrophobic interactions were further analyzed by molecular dynamics (MD)
using the GROMACS version 2018 simulation package.

Results:

Six H-donor conserved residues were selected as protein active sites, including Arg-
220, Tyr-38, Gln-154, Asn-73, Arg-74, and Thr-24. Through virtual screening, a total of nine
compounds with the highest binding affinity to the FemA protein were identified. Frigocyclinone
and C21H21N3O4 exhibited the highest binding affinity and demonstrated favorable
pharmacokinetic properties. Molecular dynamics analysis of the FemA-ligand complexes further
indicated desirable stability and reliability of complexes, reinforcing the potential efficacy
of these ligands as inhibitors of FemA protein.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest that Frigocyclinone and C21H21N3O4 are promising inhibitors
of FemA in S. aureus. To further validate these computational results, experimental studies are
planned to confirm the inhibitory effects of these compounds on various S. aureus strains. Combining
computational screening with experimental validation contributes valuable insights to the
field of drug discovery in comparison to the classical drug discovery approaches.
Potential Druggability of Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cell-derived Exosomes
Authors: Zhang Fan , Zhang Leisheng , Yu Hao
Published: March 2024

:

Exosomes secreted by mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSC-Exos) are advantageous
candidate sources for novel acellular therapy. Despite the current standards of good manufacturing
practice (GMP), the deficiency of suitable quality-control methods and the difficulties in
large-scale preparation largely restrict the development of therapeutic products and their clinical
applications worldwide. Herein, we mainly focus on three dominating issues commonly encountered
in exosomal GMP, including issues upstream of the cell culture process, downstream of the
purification process, exosomes quality control, and the drug properties of exosomes and their druggability
from a corporate perspective. Collectively, in this review article, we put forward the issues
of preparing clinical exosome drugs for the treatment of diverse diseases and provide new references
for the clinical application of GMP-grade MSC-Exos.
Former Outer Districts, Neighborhoods of Edirne Proper, and Historical Architectural
Authors: Erdoğan Nevnihal
Published: March 2024

The goal of this chapter is the investigation of old neighborhoods (mahalle),
streets, and houses of old outer districts (bölge) of the inner Edirne region. One of the
goals of this study then is to expose the growth and development of the inner districts
of the Edirne region without overlooking the existing values. In this context, original
establishments (mosques, baths, fountains, soup kitchens, etc) and the settlement layout
(streets and neighborhoods) have been fixed on the existing maps of the district. The
first and second groups of Edirne neighborhoods were investigated in terms of their
history, neighbor relations, and historical house type. The new neighborhoods of
Edirne that make up the third group are continuing to expand from the eastern portions
of the city towards the Edirne plateau.

Original establishments such as mosques, baths, fountains, soup kitchens, etc. and the
settlement layout (streets and neighborhoods) have been drawn on the existing maps of
districts. The plans of some historical residences were drawn with various dimensions
and these structures and the historical streets on which they stand were all
photographed. Housing types selected from different neighborhoods were analyzed.
SENTETİK ATIKSULARDAN REAKTİF SARI 145 BOYASININ UZAKLAŞTIRILMASI: YER FISTIĞI KABUKLARININ ADSORBAN OLARAK DEĞERLENDİRİLMESİ
Authors: Çelebi Hakan , Bilican İsmail , Şimşek İsmail , Bahadır Tolga , Tulun Şevket
Published: March 2024

Hem sektörel hem de evsel kullanımlarla açığa çıkan tarım ve gıda atıkları besin zincirinin en önemli atıklarındandır. Tüm dünyada değerli özelliklere sahip bu atıklar doğrudan çöp alanlarına atılmaktadır. Bu çalışmada, atık olarak çöpe atılan yer fıstığı kabukları toz formda Reaktif Sarı 145’in sentetik çözeltiden giderimi amacıyla kullanılmıştır. Değerlendirme için, sabit karıştırma hızı (150±5 rpm) ve 10±3 mg/L Reaktif Sarı 145 dozunda; pH, temas süresi, fıstık kabuğu dozu ve sıcaklık faktörlerinin etkileri incelenmiştir. Fıstık kabuğunun yapısı ve yüzey kimyası FTIR, pHZPC, ve SEM ile ortaya konulmuştur. FTIR pikleri, fıstık kabuğu yüzeyi üzerinde Reaktif Sarı 145’in tutunabildiğini gösteren spesifik fonksiyonel grupların varlığını ispatlamıştır. Fıstık kabuğu yüzeyindeki gözenekli yapının Reaktif Sarı 145 giderimi için avantajlı olduğu görülmüştür. Optimum şartlarda (Fıstık kabuğu dozu: 0,5 g, pH: 2,0, süre: 30 dakika, sıcaklık: 20 oC) Fıstık kabuğu için yaklaşık %75 Reaktif Sarı 145 verimi elde edilmiştir. Fizisorpsiyonun ön planda olduğu ve tek katmanlı adsorpsiyonun gerçekleştiği sürecin Langmuir ve yalancı ikinci derece modellerine uyduğu görülmektedir. Termodinamik verileri sürecin kendiliğinden ve endotermik gerçekleştiğini göstermiştir. Maksimum adsorpsiyon kapasitesi Reaktif Sarı 145 için 9,438 mg/g olarak tespit edilmiştir. Sonuçlar, fıstık kabuğunun, Reaktif Sarı 145 giderimi için hem umut verici hem de alternatif çevre dostu bir adsorbent olduğunu desteklemektedir.
Performance of ChatGPT on the India Undergraduate Community Medicine Examination: Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Gandhi Aravind P , Joesph Felista Karen , Rajagopal Vineeth , Aparnavi P , Katkuri Sushma , Dayama Sonal , Satapathy Prakasini , Khatib Mahalaqua Nazli , Gaidhane Shilpa , Zahiruddin Quazi Syed , Behera Ashish
Published: March 2024

Background

Medical students may increasingly use large language models (LLMs) in their learning. ChatGPT is an LLM at the forefront of this new development in medical education with the capacity to respond to multidisciplinary questions.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of ChatGPT 3.5 to complete the Indian undergraduate medical examination in the subject of community medicine. We further compared ChatGPT scores with the scores obtained by the students.

Methods

The study was conducted at a publicly funded medical college in Hyderabad, India. The study was based on the internal assessment examination conducted in January 2023 for students in the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery Final Year–Part I program; the examination of focus included 40 questions (divided between two papers) from the community medicine subject syllabus. Each paper had three sections with different weightage of marks for each section: section one had two long essay–type questions worth 15 marks each, section two had 8 short essay–type questions worth 5 marks each, and section three had 10 short-answer questions worth 3 marks each. The same questions were administered as prompts to ChatGPT 3.5 and the responses were recorded. Apart from scoring ChatGPT responses, two independent evaluators explored the responses to each question to further analyze their quality with regard to three subdomains: relevancy, coherence, and completeness. Each question was scored in these subdomains on a Likert scale of 1-5. The average of the two evaluators was taken as the subdomain score of the question. The proportion of questions with a score 50% of the maximum score (5) in each subdomain was calculated.

Results

ChatGPT 3.5 scored 72.3% on paper 1 and 61% on paper 2. The mean score of the 94 students was 43% on paper 1 and 45% on paper 2. The responses of ChatGPT 3.5 were also rated to be satisfactorily relevant, coherent, and complete for most of the questions (>80%).

Conclusions

ChatGPT 3.5 appears to have substantial and sufficient knowledge to understand and answer the Indian medical undergraduate examination in the subject of community medicine. ChatGPT may be introduced to students to enable the self-directed learning of community medicine in pilot mode. However, faculty oversight will be required as ChatGPT is still in the initial stages of development, and thus its potential and reliability of medical content from the Indian context need to be further explored comprehensively.
Investigating the Use of Serious Games for Cancer Control Among Children and Adolescents: Scoping Review (Preprint)
Authors: Kim Sunghak , Wilson Paije , Abraham Olufunmilola
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Effective health care services that meet the diverse needs of children and adolescents with cancer are required to alleviate their physical, psychological, and social challenges and improve their quality of life. Previous studies showed that serious games help promote people’s health. However, the potential for serious games to be used for successful cancer control for children and adolescents has received less attention.

OBJECTIVE

This scoping review aimed to map the use of serious games in cancer prevention and cancer care for children and adolescents, and provide future directions for serious games’ development and implementation within the context of cancer control for children and adolescents.

METHODS

This study followed a combination of the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews) and the JBI (Joanna Briggs Institute) framework for the conduct of scoping reviews. PubMed, CINAHL Plus Full Text, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, and American Psychological Association (APA) PsycINFO databases were used for the search.

RESULTS

From the initial 2750 search results, 63 papers were included in the review, with 28 quantitative, 14 qualitative, and 21 mixed method studies. Most of the studies were cancer care serious game papers (55/63, 87%) and a small number of studies were cancer prevention serious game papers (8/63, 13%). The majority of the included studies were published between 2019 and 2023 (cancer prevention: 5/8, 63%; cancer care: 35/55, 64%). The majority of the studies were conducted in Europe (cancer prevention: 3/8, 38%; cancer care: 24/55, 44%) and North America (cancer prevention: 4/8, 50%; cancer care: 17/55, 31%). Adolescents were the most represented age group in the studies’ participants (cancer prevention: 8/8, 100%; cancer care: 46/55, 84%). All (8/8, 100%) cancer prevention serious game papers included healthy people as participants, and 45 out of 55 (82%) cancer care serious game papers included patients with cancer. The majority of cancer prevention serious game papers addressed game preference as a target outcome (4/8, 50%). The majority of cancer care serious game papers addressed symptom management as a target outcome (28/55, 51%). Of the cancer care studies examining serious games for symptom management, the majority of the studies were conducted to treat psychological (13/55, 24%) and physical symptoms (10/55, 18%).

CONCLUSIONS

This review shows both the growth of interest in the use of serious games for cancer control among children and adolescents and the potential for bias in the relevant literature. The diverse characteristics of the included papers suggest that serious games can be used in various ways for cancer control among children and adolescents while highlighting the need to develop and implement serious games in underrepresented areas.