bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing Quality Control of Chip Seal Construction through Machine Learning-Based Analysis of Surface Frictional Metrics
Authors: Bao Jieyi , Adcock Joseph , Li Shuo , Jiang Yi
Published: August 2023

Efforts to enhance quality control (QC) practices in chip seal construction have predominantly relied on single surface frictional metrics such as mean profile depth (MPD) or friction number. These metrics assess chip seal quality by targeting issues such as aggregate loss or excessive bleeding, which may yield low friction numbers or texture depths. However, aggregate loss particularly due to snowplow operations doesn't always result in slippery conditions and may lead to uneven surfaces. The correlation between higher MPD or friction number and superior chip seal quality isn't straightforward. This research introduces an innovative machine learning-based approach to enhance chip seal QC. Using a hybrid DBSCAN-Isolation Forest model, anomaly detection is conducted on a dataset comprising 183,794 20-meter MPD measurements from actual chip seal projects across six districts in Indiana. This results in typical 20 m-segment MPD ranges of [0.9, 1.9], [0.6, 2.1], [0.3, 1.3], [1.0, 1.7], [0.6, 1.9], and [1.0, 2.3] for the respective six districts in Indiana. A two-step QC procedure tailored for chip seal evaluation is proposed. The first step calculates outlier percentages across 1-mile segments, with an established limit of 25% outlier segments per wheel track. The second step assesses unqualified rates across projects, setting a threshold of 50% for 1-mile unqualified wheel track segments. While the results are data-specific, this framework offers pavement construction practitioners a foundational QC standard for chip seal projects.
Clinical Efficacy and Openness to New Challenges of Low Dose Rate (LDR) Brachytherapy for Prostate Cancer
Authors: Kato Manabu , Higashi Shinichiro , Sugino Yusuke , Kajiwara Shinya , Tanaka Shiori , Kitano Goshi , Yamashita Yasuhumi , Ogura Yuji , Tachibana Hiroyuki , Kojima Takahiro , Inoue Takahiro
Published: August 2023

Over a century ago, low-dose-rate (LDR) brachytherapy was introduced to treat prostate cancer (PCa). Since then, it has been widely applied worldwide, including in East Asia. LDR brachythera-py has been performed in 88 institutes in Japan. Beneficial clinical outcomes of LDR brachytherapy for intermediate-to-high-risk PCa have been demonstrated in large clinical trials. These clinical outcomes were achieved through advances in methods, such as urological precise needle puncture and seed placement, and the quantitative decision-making regarding radiological parameters by radiation oncologists. Combined use of LDR brachytherapy with other therapeutical modalities, such as external beam radiation and androgen deprivation therapy, for clinical risk classification of PCa has led to better anticancer treatment efficacy. In this study, we summarized basic LDR brachytherapy findings that should remain unchanged and be passed down in urology depart-ments. We also discussed the applications of LDR brachytherapy for PCa in various clinical settings, including focal and salvage therapies. In addition, we highlighted technologies associated with brachytherapy that are under development.
Antiviral Activity of Anthranilamide Peptidomimetics against Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and a Coronavirus
Authors: Urmi Umme Laila , Attard Samuel , Vijay Ajay Kumar , Willcox Mark D. P. , Kumar Naresh , Islam Salequl , Kuppusamy Rajesh
Published: August 2023

The development of potent antiviral agents is of utmost importance to combat the global burden of viral infections. Traditional antiviral drug development involves targeting specific viral proteins, which may lead to the emergence of resistant strains. To explore alternative strategies, we investigated the antiviral potential of antimicrobial peptidomimetic compounds. In this study, we evaluated the antiviral potential of short anthranilamide-based peptidomimetic compounds 1-17 against two viruses: Murine Hepatitis Virus 1 (MHV-1-single stranded RNA virus) which is a surrogate of human coronaviruses and Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV-1-double stranded DNA virus). The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of these compounds were determined in vitro to assess their potency as antiviral agents. Compounds 11 and 14 displayed the most potent inhibitory effect with IC50 values of 2.38μM, and 6.3μM against MHV-1 while compounds 9 and 14 showed IC50 values of 14.8μM and 13μM, against HSV-1. Multiple antiviral assessments and microscopic images obtained through transmission electron microscopy (TEM) collectively demonstrated that these compounds exert a direct influence on the viral envelope. Based on this outcome, it can be concluded that peptidomimetic compounds could offer a new approach for the development of potent antiviral agents.
Exploiting Earth Observations to Enable Groundwater Modeling in the Data-Sparse Region of Goulbi Maradi, Niger
Authors: Barbosa Sergio A. , Jones Norman L. , Williams Gustavious P. , Mamane Bako , Begou Jamila , Nelson E. James , Ames Daniel P.
Published: August 2023

Groundwater modeling is a useful tool for assessing sustainability in water resources planning. However, groundwater models are difficult to construct in regions with limited data availability. We illustrated how remote sensing data can be used leverage limited in situ data to build and calibrate a regional groundwater model in the Goulbi Maradi alluvial aquifer in Southern Niger in Western Africa. We used data from the NASA Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) satellite mission to estimate recharge rates, the primary source of water to the aquifer. Additionally, we incorporated groundwater storage changes obtained from GRACE data from 2009 to 2021 to establish an overall water budget from which we could back-calculate groundwater withdrawals from pumping in the region. This approach allowed us to calibrate the model and then convert it to a predictive tool to analyze the impact of various assumptions about future recharge and groundwater extraction patterns associated with the development of groundwater infrastruction in the region. The results indicate that the Goulbi Maradi alluvial aquifer is sustainable, even an increase of groundwater extraction up to 28%.
10-Year Clinical Follow-Up After Decompression of Lipofibromatous Hamartoma of the Median Nerve in a 3-Year Old Patient
Authors: Yoo Seung Jin , Kim Dae Hwan , Cho Seong Hyun , Lee Kyung Ryeol , Seo Kyu Bum
Published: August 2023

Lipofibromatous hamartoma, first reported in 1953, is a rare, slowly-progressive soft tissue tumor, characteristics of which include enlargement of the affected nerve by epineurial and perineurial proliferation of adipose and fibrous tissues. Out of previously reported 200 cases of lipofibromatous hamartoma of the median nerve, there have been approximately 40 pediatric cases under the age of 18. Herein, we report a case of lipofibromatous hamatoma of the median nerve in a 3-year-old female patient, who was surgically decompressed by carpal tunnel release only and histologically confirmed. The patient was followed-up on outpatient clinic basis annually along with ultrasonography, and the postoperative 10th year follow-up did not show recurrence or any deficits in motor and sensory functions
Genotyping of Helicobacter pylori ureC Gene: Connection of Its Association with Gastric Cancer in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Tsung-Hsing , Lin Ang-Hsiang , Yeh Chau-Ting , Wu Chi-Huan
Published: August 2023

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is known to play a significant role in the development of peptic ulcer diseases and gastric cancer. Previous studies have reported the existence of polymorphism in the ureC gene of H. pylori. However, the relationship between genetic sequence variations in ureC and the pathogenesis of peptic ulcer diseases remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the associations between ureC sequence variations and the development of gastric ulcer and gastric cancer. PCR amplification and DNA sequencing to analyze ureC sequences, and conducted phylogenetic analysis using MEGA X software. Samples from Taiwanese patients with gastric ulcer and gastric cancer were included in this study. PCR was used to amplify the ureC gene from these samples, followed by DNA sequencing. The obtained sequences were then subjected to phylogenetic analysis using MEGA X software. In addition, ureC sequences from different geographical regions, including China and other countries, were included in the analysis for comparison. Analysis of the ureC se-quences from Taiwanese samples revealed that 6 out of 7 gastric ulcer samples clustered together in one group, while the sequences from 7 out of 8 gastric cancer samples were distributed across other groups. Phylogenetic analysis incorporating ureC sequences from different geographical regions showed that Taiwanese ureC sequences could be divided into two distinct groups, although the bootstrap values supporting this separation were low. Notably, the ureC sequences from China formed a distinct group with a high bootstrap value, separate from sequences from all other countries. There are two genotypes of ureC sequences present in Taiwanese samples, with one genotype showing a closer association with gastric cancer. Additionally, the ureC sequences from China appear to be unique and separate from those obtained from other countries, indicating the presence of genetic diversity in ureC sequences among H. pylori strains from different regions, potentially contributing to differences in disease outcomes. Further research is needed to elucidate the specific mechanisms by which ureC sequence variations may influence the pathogenesis of peptic ulcer diseases and gastric cancer.
The Dynamics of the Euphrates River Water Level in Response to Dams: A Study of NDWI Index and Satellite Monitoring Using Advanced Statistical Methods
Authors: Rahimi Farid
Published: August 2023

The construction of 22 dams on the Euphrates has reduced the flow of this river, changed the hydrology and destroyed the ecosystem. In order to understand the effect of extreme management on water, 4 coastal points from the Euphrates catchment area were selected to investigate the dynamics of the water level. Using the Cadmium method, the radius of each point was calculated to be 140 meters to study the NDWI index and satellite monitoring. 546 Landsat 8 OLI/TIRS satellite images from 2013 to 2022 were used. The analysis showed that the water level of the Euphrates in the fourth coordinate is directly related to the data of the first and third coordinates and the dynamics of the water level in the fourth coordinate is 3.6 to 4.2 percent of the first coordinate and another 5.2 to 5.9 percent is affected by the third coordinate. Is. Also, the data from August 2013 to 2022 were analyzed. The results showed that the correlation coefficients of the data related to the first coordinates are related to the third and fourth coordinates. It was proved that fluctuations in the first coordinate led to 27% change in the third coordinate in the months of August. Also, the changes in the first point caused 18-19.8% change in the dynamic level of water in the fourth point, and 22.5% of the changes in the water level in the fourth coordinate were affected by the third point.
Machine Learning-Based Forest Classification and Regression (FCR) for Spatial Prediction of Liver Fluke (Opisthorchis viverrini) Infection in Small Sub Watershed
Authors: Pumhirunroj Benjamabhorn , Littidej Patiwat , Boonmars Thidarut , Bootyothee Kanokwan , Artchayasawat Atchara , Wongkalasin Attasit , Lertsiriudom Eksakol , Khamphilung Phusit , Slack Donald
Published: August 2023

Infection of liver flukes (Opisthorchis viverrini) is partly due to their suitability for habitats in sub-basin areas, which causes the intermediate host to remain in the watershed system in all seasons. Spatial monitoring of fluke infection at the small basin analysis scale is important because this can enable analysis at the level of the spatial factors involved and influencing infections. The spatial mathematical model was weighted by the nine spatial factors by dividing the analysis into two levels. 1) sub-basin boundary level analyzed with ordinary least square (OLS) model used to analyze spatial factors of liver fluke aimed at analyzing spatial factors related to human liver fluke infection according to sub-basin boundaries, and 2) infection risk positional analysis level with machine learning-based forest classification and regression (FCR) and displaying predictive results of infection risk locations along stream lines. The analysis results show 4 prototype models that import different independent variable factors. The results show that Model-1 and Model-2 give the most AUC = 0.964 and the variables that influence infection risk the most were distance to stream lines, and distance to water bodies, NDMI and NDVI factors rarely affect accuracy. This FCR machine learning application approach can be applied to the analysis of infection risk areas at the sub-basin level, but independent variables must be screened with a preliminary mathematical model weighted to the spatial units in order to obtain the most accurate predictions.
Recurrent Non-variceal Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding among Patients Receiving Dual Antiplatelet Therapy
Authors: Yoo Ah Young , Joo Moon Kyung , Park Jong-Jae , Lee Beom Jae , Kim Seung Han , Kim Won Shik , Chun Hoon Jai
Published: August 2023

Background: Patients undergoing dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) may experience recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB). We investigated the clinical characteristics and risk factors for recurrent non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (NVUGIB) in patients who had experienced NVUGIB during receiving DAPT. Methods: We enrolled patients diagnosed with NVUGIB during receiving DAPT between 2006 and 2020. Definite bleeding was confirmed by esophagogastroduodenoscopy in all NVUGIB patients. Results: A total of 124 patients were diagnosed with NVUGIB during receiving DAPT. Male was predominant (n = 103, 83.1%), bleeding mostly from the stomach (n = 94, 75.8%) and peptic ulcers (n = 72, 58.1%). After successful hemostasis of NVUGIB, 36 patients (29.0%) experienced at least one episode of recurrent upper GIB, 19 patients (15.3%) died, and 7 (5.6%) patients had a bleeding-related death. Multivariate analysis showed that age was a significant factor for re-bleeding (odds ratio [OR],1.050; 95% confidence interval [CI]:1.001-1.102, P-value:0.047), all-cause mortality (OR,1.096; 95% CI:1.020-1.178, P=0.013), and re-bleeding related mortality (OR,1.187; 95% CI:1.032-1.364, P-value:0.016). In Kaplan-Meier analysis, the cumulative probabilities of re-bleeding, death, and bleeding-related death were significantly higher in patients aged 70 and older (P=0.008, <0.001, and 0.009, respectively). Conclusion: Clinicians should be cautious about re-bleeding and mortality when elderly patients who experienced NVUGIB during receiving DAPT.Keywords: dual antiplatelet therapy; upper gastrointestinal tract; bleeding; mortality
Making Automotive Radar Sensor Validation Measurements Comparable
Authors: Elster Lukas , Staab Jan Philipp , Peters Steven
Published: August 2023

Virtual validation of radar sensor models is becoming increasingly important for the safety validation of adf. Therefore, methods for quantitative comparison of radar measurements in the context of model validation need to be developed. This paper presents a novel methodology for accessing and quantifying validation measurements of radar sensor models. This method uses edf and the so-called dvm to effectively quantify deviations between distributions. By applying this metric, the study measures the consistency, reproducibility and repeatability of radar sensor measurements. Different interfaces and different levels of detail are investigated. By comparing the radar signals from real world experiments where different objects are present, valuable insights are gained into the performance of the sensor. In particular, the research extends to assessing the impact of varying rain intensities on the measurement results, providing a comprehensive understanding of the sensor’s behaviour under these conditions. This holistic approach significantly advances the evaluation of radar sensor capabilities and enables the quantification of the maximum required quality of radar simulation models.
Brain Functional Representation of Highly Occluded Object Recognition
Authors: Li Bao , Zhang Chi , Cao Long , Chen Panpan , Liu Tianyuan , Gao Hui , Wang Linyuan , Yan Bin , Tong Li
Published: August 2023

Recognizing highly occluded objects is believed to arises from the interaction between the brain's vision and cognition controlling areas, although supporting neuroimaging data is currently limited. To explore the neural mechanism during this activity, we conducted an occlusion object recognition experiment using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). During magnet resonance examinations, 66 subjects engaged in object recognition tasks with three different occlusion degrees. Generalized linear model (GLM) analysis showed that the activation degree of occipital lobe (inferior occipital gyrus, middle occipital gyrus, and occipital fusiform gyrus) and dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC) was related to the occlusion degree of the objects. Multivariate pattern analysis (MVPA) further unearthed a considerable surge in classification precision when dACC activation was incorporated as a feature. This suggested the combined role of dACC and occipital lobe in occluded object recognition tasks. Moreover, psychophysiological interaction (PPI) analysis disclosed that functional connectivity (FC) between the dACC and the occipital lobe was enhanced with increased occlusion, highlighting the necessity of FC between these two brain regions in effectively identifying exceedingly occluded objects. In conclusion, these findings contribute to understanding the neural mechanisms of highly occluded objects recognition, augmenting our appreciation of how the brain manages incomplete visual data.
The Computed Sinusoid
Authors: Holte Christopher , McCourt Peter A.G. , Boninsegna Matteo
Published: August 2023

The hepatic sinusoids are lined by thin endothelium containing transcellular pores dubbed fenestra. These fenestrations are completely open channels connecting the sinusoidal lumen to the underlying Space of Disse (SoD) and the hepatocytes of the liver parenchyma. The fenestrations are in the size range 0.05-0.35µm in diameter and cover between 5-15% of the sinusoidal endothelial surface area depending on their location along the sinusoids.
Motivation/Research Question: So far, the narrowness of the sinusoids prevented the direct measurement of hemodynamic features such as sinusoidal pressure and flow velocity. A better understanding of these parameters might help in better understanding the physiology of the hepatic niche and possible implications in liver diseases.
Few simulations of liver blood flow focus on the level of the individual sinusoid, fewer still include the transcellular pores (fenestrations) of the sinusoidal endothelium, and none have included i) a porosity gradient along the sinusoid wall modelled with through-all pores rather than a porus medium, ii) the presence of the Space of Disse, iii) lymphatic drainage.
Model: Computed fluid dynamic (CFD) simulations performed using a numerical model with relevant anatomical characteristics (length, diameter, porous size and porosity). Boundary conditions included physiological/pathological values of inlet/outlet pressure and lymphatic outflow from the portal region of the SoD.
Results: The pressure and flow velocity of the sinusoidal lumen was entirely dependent on the shape, i.e. constant versus divergent radius and not dependent on porosity in the sinusoidal wall. The velocity through the space of Disse (SoD) was affected by the addition of lymphatic drainage and increases in porosity in the pericentral area of the model. Variations in porosity also affected flow velocity through the fenestrations.
Conclusions: The flow velocity in the SoD was modified by differences in porosity, while the flow velocity in the lumen of the sinusoids was unaffected, even by the absence of fenestrations. The overall shape of the vessel is the singular most important factor in the pressure flow behavior of the sinusoidal lumen.
The flow rate over the hepatocytes is the flow rate through the SoD, and is modestly affected by the distribution of porosity along the sinusoid, and by the addition of a lymphatic drainage, this parameter would be of interest for modelling blood exchange with the hepatic parenchyma, especially if accounting for zonation.
Riemann–Hilbert Problems, Polynomial Lax Pairs, Integrable Equations and Their Soliton Solutions
Authors: Gerdjikov Vladimir Stefanov , Stefanov Aleksander Aleksiev
Published: August 2023

The standard approach to integrable nonlinear evolution equations (NLEE) usually uses the following steps: 1) Lax representation $[L,M]=0$; 2)~construction of fundamental analytic solutions (FAS);
3) reducing the inverse scattering problem (ISP) to a Riemann-Hilbert problem (RHP) $\xi^+(x,t,\lambda) =\xi^-(x,t,\lambda) G(x,t\lambda)$ on a contour $\Gamma$ with sewing function $G(x,t,\lambda)$; 4) soliton solutions and possible applications.Step 1) involves several assumptions: the choice of the Lie algebra $\mathfrak{g}$ underlying $L$, as well as its
dependence on the spectral parameter, typically linear or quadratic in $\lambda$.

In the present paper we propose another approach which substantially extends the classes of integrable NLEE.Its first advantage is that one can effectively use any polynomial dependence in both $L$ and $M$. We use the following steps: A) Start with canonically normalized RHP with predefined contour $\Gamma$; B) Specify the $x$ and $t$ dependence of the sewing function defined on $\Gamma$; C) Introduce convenient parametrization for the solutions $ \xi^\pm(x,t,\lambda)$
of the RHP and formulate the Lax pair and the nonlinear evolution equations (NLEE); D) use Zakharov-Shabat dressing method to derive their soliton solutions. This needs correctly taking into account the symmetries of the RHP. E) Define the resolvent of the Lax operator and use it analyze its spectral properties.
Reliability of the 15-Sec Maximal Glycolytic Capacity (VLaMax) Test for Cycling
Authors: Harnish Christopher R , Swensen Thomas C. , King Deborah
Published: August 2023

Background: The purpose of this study was to ascertain the reliability of two 15-sec sprint cycling tests in men and women to estimate the maximum rate of glycolysis or lactate production (VLa-Max). Methods: Eighteen men and twelve women completed two sprint sessions over 1-week. A 10-min warm-up preceded a 3 µl blood lactate (BLC) sample, after which a 15-sec sprint was completed; cyclists then rested passively while multiple lactate samples were taken until levels peaked. VLaMax was calculated as (Peak BLC – Pre BLC) * (15-sec – Talac)-1. Trial differences and reliability across trials were analyzed using a paired-sample t-test, Pearson correlation, ICC, and Bland-Altman analysis with α=0.05 for all tests; data are reported as mean ± sd. Results: Power (W) was similar across trails (773.0 ±143.5 vs. 758.2 ± 127.4; p = 0.333) and coefficient of varia-tion (CV) of 4.7%. VLaMax was similar (0.673 ± 0.024 vs 0.635 ± 0.237; p = 0.280), but only moder-ately reliably across trials with a CV, ICC, and R value of 18.6%, 0.661, and 0.67, respectively. Conclusions: A 15-sec VLaMax cycling sprint is moderately reliable being affected both by the lac-tate measurement and other variables used in the calculation. More research may offer ways to improve reliability.
Effect of road marking materials on LiDAR response
Authors: Zhao Yongqi , Li Hexuan , Rosenberger Philipp , Babić Dario , Babić Darko , Wiesinger Friedrich , Helmreich Bernhard , Burghardt Tomasz , Eichberger Arno
Published: August 2023

Road marking recognition is of great importance for the deployment of automated driving systems and for already existing driver line-keeping assistance systems. For proper and reliable function of machine vision systems that include LiDAR and camera, road markings must be visible to them to facilitate planning of driving trajectory. In this study, LiDAR intensity and the number of LiDAR points collected from a field analysis of two road markings systems reflectorised with premium and standard glass beads were analysed. In the lateral direction, it was demonstrated that the use of premium glass beads for road markings lead to 56% higher LiDAR intensity and 14% more LiDAR points captured than in case of standard road markings. In the longitudinal direction, premium road markings showed less distance attenuation, which is seen as advantageous for trajectory planning by machine version systems. The outcomes of this study offer insights for road infrastructure decision-makers, developers of automated driving systems, and researchers in the field of transportation technology.
Enhancing Efficiency and Sustainability: A Case Study of Economic Management Transformation at the University of Vigo
Authors: Cerviño-Rodríguez Rodrigo , Martín-Moreno José María
Published: August 2023

The paper discusses the experience of implementing an efficient economic management system at the University of Vigo in Spain. This system, which focuses on managing secondments, aims to minimize bureaucracy and standardize economic procedures for various staff groups. By adopting a qualitative methodology and utilizing content analysis, the study compares the University of Vigo's fully digital administrative procedure with other universities in the CRUE network. The results show significant time and cost savings due to this implementation. The improved traceability and information for users support the administrative change, and the positive environmental impacts highlight the commitment to a more sustainable approach. The paper's originality lies in demonstrating how this approach enhances efficiency, reduces costs, and improves sustainability within a Spanish public administration setting.
Spread of Extended-Spectrum-β-Lactamase-Producing Pathogenic Escherichia coli Clonal Complex 10 in the Republic of Korea
Authors: Park Jungsun , Shin Eunkyung , Han Joohyun , Kang Wooju , Yoo Jaeil , Yoo Jung-sik , Roh Dong-Hyun , Kim Junyoung
Published: August 2023

ESBL-producing E. coli is a growing public problem in healthcare settings and the community. Between 2009 and 2018, a total of 187 ESBL-producing pathogenic E. coli isolates were confirmed, and clonal complex (CC) 10 was the predominant clone. This study aimed to characterize ESBL-producing pathogenic E. coli CC10 strains obtained from diarrheal patients to improve the understanding of CC10 distribution in the Republic of Korea.

A total of 57 CC10 strains were selected for molecular characterizations, such as the identification of serotype, antibiotic resistance genes, genetic environments, plasmid profiles, and the genetic correlation between CC10 strains.

In the CC10 isolates, the most prevalent serotype was O25:H16, followed by O6:H16. ESBL genes were identified as blaCTX-M, and the most dominant ESBL gene was blaCTX-M-15 (56%) and blaCTX-M-14 (30%). Most blaCTX-M genes were located on plasmids, and these plasmid profiles were confirmed as IncB/O/K/Z, IncF, IncI1 and IncX1. The mobile elements located up-and down-stream mainly included ISEcp1 (complete or incomplete) and IS903 or orf477 were found, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the CC10 strains were genetically diverse and divided into several distinct lineages.

In this study, we found that CC10 ESBL-producing pathogenic E. coli has been steadily isolated; particularly, CTX-M-15-producing E. coli O25:H16 isolates were the major type related with distribution in CC10 clones during the last decade. Identification of ESBL-producing pathogenic E. coli CC10 isolates highlights the possibility of the emergence of resistant isolates with epidemic potential within this CC. Therefore, continuous monitoring will be conducted to prevent further spread of resistant ESBL-producing E. coli CC10 strains.
Detection Limitations of Prion Seeding Activities in Blood Samples from Patients with Sporadic Prion Disease
Authors: Nonaka Toshiaki , Iwasaki Yasushi , Horiuchi Hiroyuki , Satoh Katsuya
Published: August 2023

Human prion diseases (HPDs) are fatal neurodegenerative disorders characterized by abnormal prion proteins (PrPSc). Numerous techniques have been devised to detect prion seeding activity, each with limitations. Here, we developed a technology for in vitro amplification of abnormal prion proteins (PrPSc), thereby enabling their sensitive detection. Using the real-time quaking-induced conversion (RT-QuIC) PrPSc amplification assay, we could detect ≥1 fg of PrPSc in diluted human prion disease brain homogenate. Although RT-QuIC assay is suitable for detecting prion seeding activity in a variety of specimens, its accuracy in whole blood, blood plasma, or blood-contaminated tissues is reduced. To circumvent this issue and move toward developing a blood test for prions, we introduced an immunoprecipitation step at the beginning of the RT-QuIC reaction. We refer to this enhanced method as “eQuIC”. eQuIC utilizes three types of human monoclonal antibodies, which significantly increased its sensitivity—making it approximately 1000 times more sensitive than the original RT-QuIC assay. Nevertheless, when we tested the blood (serum, plasma, and whole blood) of six patients with sporadic human prion disease using eQuIC, we were unable to detect prion activity. Therefore, we concluded that the detection of prion seeding activities in blood samples from patients with sporadic prion disease remains challenging; thus, alternative methods beyond RT-QuIC and eQuIC will be necessary for future research.
Effects of TLR-2, TLR-4, Interleukin-6 and -10 Gene Polymorphisms on Preterm Neonates with Early-Onset Sepsis: An Exploratory, Single-Center Study
Authors: Baizat Melinda Irina , Iancu Mihaela , Zaharie Gabriela , Hasmasanu Monica , Matyas Melinda , Rotar Ioana Cristina , Procopciuc Lucia Maria
Published: August 2023

Abstract:
Background: Neonatal sepsis continues to be one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity, particularly in under development and underdeveloped countries. We aim to compare laboratory parameters between the early-onset sepsis (EOS) and non-EOS groups and to evaluate the association between TLR2- Arg753Gln, TLR4 -Asp299Gly, IL6-174G/C and IL10-1082G/A gene single nucleotide polymorphisms and EOS susceptibility in preterm newborns.
Methods: Genotyping of the TLR2, TLR4, IL6 and IL10 polymorphisms was performed in 36 preterm neonates by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis (RFLP). Logistic regression analysis was used to test the associations between the studied gene polymorphisms and EOS susceptibility.
Results: Statistically significant differences in gestational age and birth weight were observed between the two groups, preterm neonates with EOS having a lower mean of gestational age (weeks, 29.4 ± 2.8 versus 32.6 ± 1.1, p = 0.00002) and lower mean of birth weight (gr., 1342.1 ± 446.5 vs. 1984 ± 376.9) than preterm neonates without EOS. C-reactive protein (CRP) values measured at first day significantly increased in EOS group compared with non-EOS group (median, 95% CI: 0.80 [0.40, 1.15] versus 0.30 [0.02, 0.50]). Mean of neutrophils significantly decreased in the EOS preterm neonates (mean difference: 17.3%, 95% CI: [4.0%, 30.5%], p = 0.0126) and non-EOS group (mean difference: 20.8%, 95% CI: [1.8%, 39.9%, p = 0.0354) between the first day and 7th hospitalization day. The minor IL10-A1082 allele frequency was higher in the EOS group than in the nonEOS group (50% versus 25%) with a marginal statistical significance (p=0.0550).
In the dominant model, the A/G + A/A variant genotype of IL10- 1082G/A polymorphism significantly increased the odds of EOS compared with GG genotype (OR= 5.25, p = 0.0322).
Conclusions: The results of the current study suggests the IL10- 1082G/A gene polymorphism as significant risk factor for early onset sepsis development in preterm neonates.
A Circular Economy-Based Plastic Waste Management Policy in Indonesia (Compared to China and EU)
Authors: Subekti Rahayu
Published: August 2023

Indonesia is a significant plastic waste producer and has more responsibility. In response, the Indonesian government has released several plastic garbage-related policies. However, the policies are viewed as ineffective. Through the circular economy concept, this study examines potential waste management policies for sustainable development by examining existing policies and comparing China's and the European Union's policies. The study shows that Indonesian waste management is highly dependent on the government. The policy affecting many sectors should require synergic participation from the related stakeholders, namely employers, investors, academicians, and civil society. As learned from these two countries, they have regulations related to an integrated waste management system, so there are no overlapping regulations. Furthermore, Indonesian waste management should consider the availability of a market for environmentally friendly items
Formulation of Dissemination Process of Phase-Free Concept for Effective Promotion of Disaster Prevention Education: A Case Study of Naruto City, Japan
Authors: Shimbo Aki , Javed Amna , Gokon Hideomi , Kohda Youji
Published: August 2023

During the Great Kanto Earthquake, fire ravaged the city beyond its firefighting capabilities at that time. This also applies to contemporary society. Today, as Japan is facing a declining birthrate and an aging population, resources for public assistance-led disaster prevention measures are also dwindling. We have experienced the limitations of public-assistance-led disaster reduction measures for numerous disasters; for example, the Great East Japan Earthquake. Following the background, in recent years, the concept of “phase-free” has attracted the consideration as a means of preparing for disasters that exceed the scope of our corresponding range. The purpose of this study was to formulate a process of disseminating disaster prevention education that is effective in terms of both children’s learning ability and disaster preparedness through an analysis of a case study on the application of the phase-free concept (PFC) to school disaster prevention education. In PFC, disaster prevention and mitigation considerations are integrated into daily life. In Japan, several companies and local governments have begun to implement this concept. This study is based on a case study of phase-free efforts in school disaster prevention education in Naruto City, Japan. Through qualitative surveys conducted from the stakeholders, this research is focused to answer the question “Why was the PFC able to spread in actual schools throughout Naruto City?” These findings indicate that the PFC helps explain Naruto City’s proactive approach to disaster management as well as explains actors’ dynamic participation in phase-free activities. Furthermore, the research findings suggest that the term “phase-free” has become a marker of the perception of quality (Merkmal in German) in disaster prevention that promotes collaboration among diverse stakeholders.
Realidades fronterizas en forma de ficción
Authors: Said Izaguirre Erika
Published: August 2023

Reseña del libro de "Delincuentos" de Arminé Arjona, publicado en el 2009 por el Instituto Chihuahuense de la Cultura.
El paso de la migración cubana por México
Authors: Barrero Haixa
Published: August 2023

La poblacion migrante irregular de nacionalidad cubana que tenido un incremento sustancial en el último año. En su paso por México son agredidos tanto física como psicológicamente por traficantes de personas o funcionarios. El interés de estas personas migrantes es llegar a Estados Unidos asi que no hacen denuncias ni emiten quejas por temor a ser detectados por los activos del Instituto de Migración. Así, continuan su camino sin ser detectados y persisten los índices de corrupción y violencia en la sociedad mexicana de las cuales son víctimas estas personas.
Characterization and Association of CFHR5 Gene Polymorphism with Fatty Acid Composition and Cholesterol in Sheep
Authors: Yudhananda Akbanugra , Listyarini Kasita , Sumantri Cece , Gunawan Asep
Published: August 2023

The Complement Factor H Related 5 (CFHR5) gene is speculated to have an important role in regulating fatty acid composition in sheep. The aim of this study was to investigate the polymorphism of the CFHR5 gene and its association with fatty acid composition and cholesterol of sheep in Indonesia. A total of 172 rams from 83 priangan sheep (PS), 20 sapudi sheep (SS), 19 Garut sheep (GS), 20 jonggol sheep (JS), 10 Garut composite sheep (GCS), 10 compass agrinac sheep (CAS), and 10 Barbados cross sheep (BCS) were used for this study. Identification of CFHR5 gene polymorphism were performed by Polymerase Chain Reaction-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) using AciI restriction enzyme. The results showed that the CFHR5 gene in all sheep populations were polymorphic producing three genotypes, e.g. CC, CT and TT, respectively. The polymorphism had a significant effect (p<0.05) on fatty acid composition (miristoleic [C14:1], ginkgolic [C17:1], tridecanoic [C13:0], and heptadecanoic [C17:0] acids) and cholesterol. The breed and polymorphism had a significant effect (p<0.05) on fatty acid composition (JS with tridecanoic acid [C13:0] and BCS with miristoleic acid [C14:1]). The CC genotype is the preferred genotype and as it exhibits reduced levels of saturated fatty acids and cholesterol. The BCS sheep is the preferred genotype and as it exhibits high PUFA/SFA ratio. The CFHR5 gene (SNP c.1011C>T) has the potential to be used as a genetic marker for the selection of low saturated fatty acid composition and cholesterol in sheep
Continued Stabilization of a Cementless 3D-Printed Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: van der Lelij Thies J.N. , Marang-van de Mheen Perla J. , Kaptein Bart L. , Toksvig-Larsen Sören , Nelissen Rob G.H.H.
Published: August 2023

Background:

Three-dimensional (3D) printing of highly porous orthopaedic implants aims to promote better osseointegration, thus preventing aseptic loosening. However, short-term radiostereometric analysis (RSA) after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has shown higher initial migration of cementless 3D-printed tibial components compared with their cemented counterparts. Therefore, critical evaluation of longer-term tibial component migration is needed. We investigated migration of a cementless 3D-printed and a cemented tibial component with otherwise similar TKA design during 5 years of follow-up, particularly the progression in migration beyond 2 years postoperatively.

Methods:

Seventy-two patients were randomized to a cementless 3D-printed Triathlon Tritanium (Stryker) cruciate-retaining (CR) TKA or a cemented Triathlon CR (Stryker) TKA implant. Implant migration was evaluated with RSA at baseline and postoperatively at 3 months and at 1, 2, and 5 years. The maximum total point motion (MTPM) of the tibial component was compared between the groups at 5 years, and progression in migration was assessed between 2 and 5 years. Individual implants were classified as continuously migrating if the MTPM was ≥0.1 mm/year beyond 2 years postoperatively. Clinical scores were evaluated, and a linear mixed-effects model was used to analyze repeated measurements.

Results:

At 5 years, the mean MTPM was 0.66 mm (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.56 to 0.78 mm) for the cementless group and 0.53 mm (95% CI, 0.43 to 0.64 mm) for the cemented group (p = 0.09). Between 2 and 5 years, there was no progression in mean MTPM for the cementless group (0.02 mm; 95% CI, −0.06 to 0.10 mm) versus 0.07 mm (95% CI, 0.00 to 0.14) for the cemented group. One implant was continuously migrating in the cementless group, and 4 were continuously migrating in the cemented group. The clinical scores were comparable between the groups across the entire time of follow-up.

Conclusions:

No significant difference in mean migration was found at 5 years between the cementless and cemented TKA implants. Progression of tibial component migration was present beyond 2 years for the cemented implant, whereas the cementless implant remained stable after initial early migration.

Level of evidence:

Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Surgical Management and Return to Activity of an Athlete with Traumatic Posterior Tibial Tendon Rupture and Associated Injuries
Authors: Protzuk Omar , Wyatt Phillip , Poulos Nicholas , O’Neill Conor , O’Connell Robert
Published: August 2023

Case:

A 22-year-old athlete sustained a traumatic posterior tibial tendon (PTT) rupture with medial malleolus fracture and anterior tibial plafond chondral lesion during practice. He underwent PTT repair, ankle arthroscopy with microfracture, and medial malleolus open reduction and internal fixation with deltoid ligament repair. At 1 year postoperatively, the patient returned to activity excluding high-level competition.

Conclusion:

Anterior tibial chondral impaction injury with an avulsion fracture of the medial malleolus and PTT tear is effectively treated with a combined arthroscopic and open approach.
Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound for Symptomatic Pseudarthrosis After Toe Fracture with Symphalangism
Authors: Shima Hiroaki , Togei Kosho , Hirai Yoshihiro , Tanaka Ken , Saito Atsunori , Yasuda Toshito , Neo Masashi
Published: August 2023

Case:

Distal phalangeal fractures are often treated conservatively. However, some patients experience residual pain. We report 2 cases of patients who underwent low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) therapy for pseudarthrosis after fracture of the distal phalanx of the fifth toe with symphalangism. Both patients (female, 63 and 33-year-old, respectively) underwent conservative treatment with buddy-taping fixation; however, bone union failed, and LIPUS therapy was initiated. In both cases, bone union was achieved and pain resolved after 3 months.

Conclusion:

Bone union occasionally fails after conservative treatment of distal phalangeal fractures. LIPUS is a useful treatment of symptomatic pseudarthrosis after such fractures.
INFORMATION EFFICIENCY IN THE U.S. AND SHARIAH-COMPLAINT STOCKS IN MALAYSIA DURING COVID-19
Authors: Loang Ooi Kok
Published: August 2023

This study examines the impact of analysts’ forecast of market liquidity and information efficiency in the U.S (developed) and Malaysia (emerging – Shariah-compliant stocks) before and during COVID-19.  The results show that the analysts’ forecast is significant to the market liquidity in the pre-COVID period but its influence diminishes during the COVID-19. Moreover, the impact of the analysts’ forecast is significant in the upper quantiles (0.7 and 0.9 quantiles) of the U.S market and in the lower quantiles (0.1 and 0.3 quantiles) of Malaysia's Islamic market. Similarly, the buy-sell recommendations in the U.S market and all variables forecasted are significant before COVID-19. Both markets become inefficient during COVID-19, and analysts’ forecast is no longer correlated to information efficiency. These results inform practitioners and investors to inspect the market conditions and investor's behavior under market stress such as COVID-19, which has disrupted the international financial markets.
PURCHASE INTENTION OF HALAL LOCAL BEAUTY BRAND DURING COVID-19: THE ROLE OF INFLUENCERS’ CREDIBILITY AND HALAL AWARENESS
Authors: Tazlia Ismi , Nurfadilah Dety , Pratama Sasotya
Published: August 2023

By applying the Stimulus-Organism-Response (SOR) model, this study investigates whether influencers’ credibility and halal awareness influence customer’s perceived value which, in turn, affects their purchase intention. Gathering data using an online survey and applying the SEM-PLS method, we find that influencers' credibility and halal awareness have a positive effect on the customer’s perceived value for local Indonesian halal beauty products. In addition, the perceived value also affects customers purchase interest.  The results related to halal awareness emphasizes the role of halal certification in the customer’s purchase intention. This study provides valuable insight to the halal local beauty industry to improve the marketing strategy and contributes to the theoretical literature in the field of management and marketing.
SHARI'A SUPERVISORY BOARD AND ISLAMIC BANKS’ INSOLVENCY RISK
Authors: Umar Umar Habibu , Abduh Muhamad , Besar Mohd Hairul Azrin
Published: August 2023

This study examines how the characteristics and quality of Shari'a supervisory board (SSB) influence the insolvency risk of Islamic banks. It employs unbalanced panel data of 43 Islamic banks in 15 countries between 2010 and 2020, which are hand-collected from the banks’ annual reports. The results indicate that the SSB quality index, SSB Islamic finance professional expertise and SSB competency increase insolvency risk while the SSB members with PhDs reduce it. Meanwhile, SSB size, SSB meetings, SSB gender diversity (SSBG) and SSB members from foreign countries have no significant influence on the insolvency risk. These findings have implications for policymakers and regulators in carving policies and regulations in restraining the SSB from taking excessive risk. They can also guide the Islamic banks' board of directors and shareholders in appointing the SSB members.
Pilot-Scale Testing of Natural Gas Pipeline Monitoring Based on Phase-OTDR and Enhanced Scatter Optical Fiber Cable
Authors: Lalam Nageswara , Westbrook Paul , Naeem Khurram , Lu Ping , Ohodnicki Paul , Diemler Nathan , Buric Michael P. , Wright Ruishu
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we present the results of lab and pilot-scale testing of a continuously enhanced backscattering, or Rayleigh enhanced fiber cable that can improve distributed acoustic sensing performance. In addition, the Rayleigh-enhanced fiber is embedded within a tight buffered cable configuration to withstand and be compatible for field applications. The sensing fiber cable exhibits a Rayleigh enhancement of 13 dB compared to standard silica single-mode fiber while maintaining low attenuation of ≤0.4 dB/km. We built a phase-sensitive optical time domain reflectometry system to interrogate the enhanced backscattering fiber cable both in lab and pilot-scale tests. In the laboratory experiment, we analyzed the vibration performance of the enhanced backscattering fiber cable and compared it with the standard single-mode telecom fiber. Afterward, we field validated for natural gas pipeline vibration monitoring using a 4-inch diameter steel pipeline operating at a fixed pressure level of 1000 psi, and a flow rate of 5, 10, 15, and 20 ft/s. The feasibility of gas pipeline monitoring with the proposed enhanced backscattering fiber cable shows a substantial increase in vibration sensing performance. The pilot-scale testing results demonstrated in this paper enable pipeline operators to perform accurate flow monitoring, leak detection, third-party intrusion detection, and continuous pipeline ground movement.
Implementation of Reinspection Scheme in Skip-lot Sampling Plan Based on the Taguchi Process Capability Index
Authors: Suthersan Panneerselvam , Balamurali Saminathan
Published: August 2023

In several industries, skip-lot sampling plans are utilised to reduce the need for inspection when a product has a history of high quality. These plans are regarded as being economically beneficial as they help to reduce the expense of the final lots examination. In this paper, we propose a designing methodology of the skip-lot sampling plans including resampling based on the Taguchi process capability index. In order to satisfy both producer and consumer risk, the plan parameters for the proposed plan are set by minimising the average sample number. The effectiveness of the proposed plan is discussed by comparing with the existing sampling plans. Moreover, the data from amplified pressure sensors is used to discuss the real life application of the proposed plan.