bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machine learning boosts performance of optical fiber sensors: a case study for vector bending sensing
Authors: Zhu Chen , Huang Jie
Published: June 2022

The spectral response produced when a high-sensitivity optical fiber sensor (OFS) is subject to an external perturbation has recently been shown to contain rich information that can be potentially exploited for multi-dimensional sensing. In this article, we propose the use of machine learning to directly and statistically learn the relation between the complex spectral response from an OFS and a measurand of interest, without knowing if there are distinct and tractable features in the spectrum. As a proof-of-concept demonstration, it is shown that a simple heterostructure-based device with a capillary tube sandwiched between two single-mode fibers without any fiber modification and complicated fabrication steps, is able to achieve directional bending sensing in a broad dynamic range with machine learning as a tool for signal analysis. It is also demonstrated that stringent requirements of the sensor interrogator, such as the wavelength and bandwidth of the light source, can be greatly relaxed due to the direct spectral mapping between the sensor and the measurand of interest, and importantly, without sacrificing the performance of the sensor. The proposed technique is highly generalizable and can be extended to any OFSs with regular or irregular characteristic spectra for sensing any measurands.
Magnetron-sputtered and thermal-evaporated low-loss Sb-Se phase-change films in non-volatile integrated photonics
Authors: Lei Kunhao , Wei Maoliang , Chen Zequn , Wu Jianghong , Jian Jialing , Du Jia , Li Junying , Li Lan , Lin Hongtao
Published: June 2022

Chalcogenide phase change materials (PCMs), featuring a large contrast in optical properties between their non-volatile amorphous and crystalline states, have triggered a surge of interest for their applications in ultra-compact photonic integrated circuits with long-term near-zero power consumption. Over the past decade, however, PCM-integrated photonic devices and networks suffered from the huge optical loss of various commonly-used PCMs themselves. In this paper, we focused on the deposition, characterization, and monolithic integration of an emerging low-loss phase change material, Sb2Se3 on a silicon photonic platform. The refractive index contrast between the amorphous and crystalline phase of the evaporated Sb-Se thin film was optimized up to 0.823 while the extinction coefficient remains less than 10−5 measured by ellipsometry. When integrated on a silicon waveguide, the propagation loss introduced by the amorphous thin film is negligibly low. After crystallization, the propagation loss of a magnetron-sputtered Sb-Se patch-covered silicon waveguide is as low as 0.019 dB/µm, while its thermal-evaporated counterpart is below 0.036 dB/µm.
Tuning and switching effects of quasi-BIC states combining phase change materials with all-dielectric metasurfaces
Authors: Barreda Angela , Zou Chengjun , Sinelnik Artem , Menshikov Evgenii , Sinev Ivan , Pertsch Thomas , Staude Isabelle
Published: June 2022

Emission enhancement of quantum emitters is particularly relevant in the development of single-photon sources, which are key elements in quantum information and quantum communications. All-dielectric metasurfaces offer a route towards strong enhancement of local density of optical states via engineering of high quality factor optical modes. In particular, the recently proposed concept of quasi-bound states in the continuum (quasi-BIC) allows for precise control of such resonances in lattices with an asymmetric unit cell. Still, the spectral band of emission enhancement is usually fixed by the geometric parameters of the metasurface. Here, we propose to utilize phase change materials to tune the properties of light-emitting metasurfaces designed to support quasi-BIC states in the telecom wavelength range. In our design, a thin layer of a phase change material, which provides strong contrast of refractive index when switched from the amorphous to the crystalline state, is located on top of the resonators made of amorphous silicon (a-Si). Depending on the selected phase change material, we numerically demonstrate different functionalities of the metasurface, In particular, for low-loss Sb2Se3 we evidence spectral tuning effects, whereas for Ge2Sb2Te5, we report an “on”/“off” switching effect of the quasi-BIC resonance. Furthermore, we investigate the influence of the crystallization fraction and the asymmetry parameter of the metasurface on the results. This work provides concrete design blueprints for switchable metasurfaces, offering new opportunities for nanophotonics devices or integrated photonic circuits.
Efficiency comparison for frequency comb formations in a silicon nitride microring within anomalous dispersion regime
Authors: Sabouri Shahryar , Mendoza Velasco Luis A. , Jamshidi Kambiz
Published: June 2022

The energy efficiency of silicon nitride (SiN) microresonator-based frequency combs is investigated using numerical simulations. The formation of stable frequency comb solutions is numerically studied for a resonator with properly engineered dispersion. The required conditions for the pump power and frequency detuning are analyzed to obtain modulation instability (MI-comb), single soliton, multi-soliton, and soliton-crystal. The performance of the micro combs in terms of the power conversion efficiency, the number of generated comb lines, and line spacing required for different applications of the frequency combs are investigated. Our numerical simulations, based on the parameters of the studied microring, show a configurable multi-wavelength source with up to 23% power conversion efficiency, 200 comb-lines with more than -10dBm power, and switchable line spacing from 100 GHz to 3THz is feasible for different regimes of the proposed frequency comb. The efficiency sensitivity to the input pump power is also studied to find the most energy-efficient operation regime for the multi-wavelength source.
Photon conservation in trans-luminal metamaterials
Authors: Pendry J. B. , Galiffi E. , Huidobro P. A.
Published: June 2022

Structures that appear to move at or near the velocity of light contain
singular points. Energy generated by motion accumulates at these
points into ever-narrowing peaks. In this paper, we show that energy
is generated by a curious process that conserves the number of
photons, adding energy by forcing photons already present to climb a
ladder of increasing frequency. We present both a classical proof
based on conservation of lines of force, and a more formal quantum
electrodynamics proof demonstrating the absence of unpaired creation
and annihilation operators. Exceptions to this rule are found when
negative frequencies make an appearance. Finally, we make a connection
to laboratory-based models of black holes and Hawking radiation.
High-speed waveguide Ge/Si avalanche photodiode with a gain-bandwidth product of 615  GHz
Authors: Xiang Yuluan , Cao Hengzhen , Liu Chaoyue , Guo Jingshu , Dai Daoxin
Published: June 2022

High-sensitivity and high-bandwidth receivers are always demanded for high-speed optical link systems. As a key element, an avalanche photodiode (APD) is often regarded as one of the most attractive options for achieving high sensitivity owing to the potential high internal gain. In this paper, a 48-GHz waveguide Ge/Si avalanche photodiode operating at the O-band (1310 nm) is designed with a lateral reach-through structure and fabricated with simplified processes. The fabricated APD shows a high primary responsivity of 0.93 A/W at the unit-gain voltage of−4.7V. It has an avalanche gain of 12.8 and a record gain-bandwidth product of∼615GHzwith an input optical power of−15dBmwhen operating at a bias voltage of−14V. The present Ge/Si APD is used successfully for high-speed data receiving, showing a sensitivity improvement about 7.6 dB for KP4-FEC operation (i.e., BER=2.4×10−4) with 50 Gbps non-return-to-zero (NRZ) data, compared with the case of using the reference PIN PD on the same chip. The sensitivity of the receiver with the present APD for NRZ signals is about−21.3dBm,−17.8dBm, and−12.6dBmfor KP4-FEC operation with different data rates of 50 Gbps, 80 Gbps, and 100 Gbps, while the sensitivity for four-level pulse amplitude modulation signals is about−13.2dBmand−11.3dBmfor KP4-FEC operation with different data rates of 25 and 50 Gbaud. Such high-performance APDs pave the way to achieve high-speed and high-sensitivity data transmissions.
Morphology of Schwann Cell Processes Supports Renal Sympathetic Nerve Terminals With Local Distribution of Adrenoceptors
Authors: Maeda Seishi , Minato Yusuke , Kuwahara-Otani Sachi , Yamanaka Hiroki , Maeda Mitsuyo , Kataoka Yosky , Yagi Hideshi
Published: June 2022

Nerves in the renal parenchyma comprise sympathetic nerves that act on renal arteries and tubules to decrease blood flow and increase primary urine reabsorption, respectively. Synaptic vesicles release neurotransmitters that activate their effector tissues. However, the mechanisms by which neurotransmitters exert individual responses to renal effector cells remain unknown. Here, we investigated the spatial and molecular compositional associations of renal Schwann cells (SC) supporting the nerve terminals in male rats. The nerve terminals of vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) enclosed by renal SC processes were exposed through windows facing the effectors with presynaptic specializations. We found that the adrenergic receptors (ARs) α2A, α2C, and β2 were localized in the SMC and the basal side of the tubules, where the nerve terminals were attached, whereas the other subtypes of ARs were distributed in the glomerular and luminal side, where the norepinephrine released from nerve endings may have indirect access to ARs. In addition, integrins α4 and β1 were coexpressed in the nerve terminals. Thus, renal nerve terminals could contact their effectors via integrins and may have a structure, covered by SC processes, suitable for intensive and directional release of neurotransmitters into the blood, rather than specialized structures in the postsynaptic region.
Combined analyses of RNA-sequence and Hi-C along with GWAS loci—A novel approach to dissect keloid disorder genetic mechanism
Authors: Huang Jia , Zhou Xiaobo , Wang Wenbo , Zhou Guangdong , Zhang WenJie , Gao Zhen , Wu Xiaoli , Liu Wei
Published: June 2022

Keloid disorder is a tumour-like disease with invasive growth and a high recurrence rate. Genetic contribution is well expected due to the presence of autosomal dominant inheritance and various genetic mutations in keloid lesions. However, GWAS failed to reveal functional variants in exon regions but single nucleotide polymorphisms in the non-coding regions, suggesting the necessity of innovative genetic investigation. This study employed combined GWAS, RNA-sequence and Hi-C analyses to dissect keloid disorder genetic mechanisms using paired keloid tissues and normal skins. Differentially expressed genes, miRNAs and lncRNAs mined by RNA-sequence were identified to construct a network. From which, 8 significant pathways involved in keloid disorder pathogenesis were enriched and 6 of them were verified. Furthermore, topologically associated domains at susceptible loci were located via the Hi-C database and ten differentially expressed RNAs were identified. Among them, the functions of six molecules for cell proliferation, cell cycle and apoptosis were particularly examined and confirmed by overexpressing and knocking-down assays. This study firstly revealed unknown key biomarkers and pathways in keloid lesions using RNA-sequence and previously reported mutation loci, indicating a feasible approach to reveal the genetic contribution to keloid disorder and possibly to other diseases that are failed by GWAS analysis alone.
Antitubercular activity assessment of fluorinated chalcones, 2-aminopyridine-3-carbonitrile and 2-amino-4H-pyran-3-carbonitrile derivatives: In vitro, molecular docking and in-silico drug likeliness studies
Authors: Lagu Surendra Babu , Yejella Rajendra Prasad , Nissankararao Srinath , Bhandare Richie R. , Golla Venu Sampath , Subrahmanya Lokesh Bontha Venkata , Rahman M. Mukhlesur , Shaik Afzal Basha
Published: June 2022

A series of newer previously synthesized fluorinated chalcones and their 2-amino-pyridine-3-carbonitrile and 2-amino-4H-pyran-3-carbonitrile derivatives were screened for their in vitro antitubercular activity and in silico methods. Compound 40 (MIC~ 8 μM) was the most potent among all 60 compounds, whose potency is comparable with broad spectrum antibiotics like ciprofloxacin and streptomycin and three times more potent than pyrazinamide. Additionally, compound 40 was also less selective and hence non-toxic towards the human live cell lines-LO2 in its MTT assay. Compounds 30, 27, 50, 41, 51, and 60 have exhibited streptomycin like activity (MIC~16–18 μM). Fluorinated chalcones, pyridine and pyran derivatives were found to occupy prime position in thymidylate kinase enzymatic pockets in molecular docking studies. The molecule 40 being most potent had shown a binding energy of -9.67 Kcal/mol, while docking against thymidylate kinase, which was compared with its in vitro MIC value (~8 μM). These findings suggest that 2-aminopyridine-3-carbonitrile and 2-amino-4H-pyran-3-carbonitrile derivatives are prospective lead molecules for the development of novel antitubercular drugs.
A prospective trial investigating the role of Serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D in diagnosis and prognosis of bladder cancer
Authors: Abdelgawad Ahmed , Hashem Abdelwahab , Mosbah Ahmed , Eissa Laila A.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Higher levels of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D 25(OHD) are associated with better prognosis in breast and colorectal cancer. However, the evidence is still inconclusive for bladder cancer (BC). Herein, we investigated the diagnosis and prognosis roles of serum levels of 25(OHD) in suspected BC patients presented by hematuria.

Methods

This prospective cohort study involved suspected patients of BC presented with hematuria. Patients were evaluated by CT urogram, office cystoscopy and urine cytology with subsequent inpatient biopsy for positive findings. Baseline blood samples were collected for measurement of 25(OHD) by electrochemiluminescence binding assay at the time of diagnosis. Patients with non-muscle-invasive BC (NMIBC) underwent transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) and adjuvant intravesical chemotherapy or BCG instillation. Patients were followed up for their recurrence status during 10 to 24 months. Recurrence was defined as the first time of NMIBC pathological relapse during the follow up period.

Results

A total of 115 patients were included in the final analysis. Patients had proven pathological BC (64 with NMIBC, and 20 with muscle invasive) and 31 patients were considered as control group. Controls were those patients with BC-free workup (including cytology, cystoscopy, and upper tract imaging). BC group showed a lower level of 25(OHD) than control group 16.47±5.88 versus 28.99±3.19 ng/mL (p<0.001). In addition, muscle invasive group also showed a lower level than NMIBC group 13.17±4.5 versus 17.49±5.04 ng/mL (P = 0.003). During the follow-up period of, tumor recurrence occurred in 16 (25%) of NMIBC patients. The baseline 25(OHD) were decreased in patients who experienced early recurrence; without being statistically significant (15.99 ± 5.17 vs. 18.38 ± 5.14 ng/mL; p = 0.08). 25(OHD) deficiency/insufficiency occurred in 5 (16.1%) and 64 (76.2%) in control and BC patients, respectively, (odds-ratios (OR): 2.13; 95% confidence intervals (CI), 1.52–2.99; P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Serum 25(OHD) is significantly decreased in BC patients especially those with tumor muscle invasive group. However, the baseline serum 25(OHD) does not predict the recurrence in the NMIBC patients.
A new method for controlling an induction motor using a hybrid discretization model predictive field orientated control
Authors: Alqaraghuli Hasan , Husain Abdul Rashid , Nik Idris Nik Rumzi Bin , Anjum Waqas , Abbasi Muhammad Abbas
Published: June 2022

The dynamic performance of the Model Predictive Control (MPC) of an Induction Motor (IM) relies on the accuracy and computational efficiency of the Discretisation Technique (DT). If the discretisation process is inaccurate or slow approximation, the MPC will exhibit high torque ripple and lower load handling capabilities. Traditionally, Euler’s method is used to discretise the MPC, which merely relies on the predictor to yield a fast, but less accurate system approximation. In contrast, Heun’s method uses a combination of predictor and corrector at alternate sampling intervals to improve the discretisation accuracy; however, the controller response becomes slow due to increased computational intensity of the algorithm. In this study, a new Hybrid Discretisation Technique (HDT) for Model Predictive Field Oriented Control (MPFOC) for IM control systems is presented to achieve robust discretisation with improved accuracy. In the proposed approach, Euler’s method is used to discretise the system at the first nine samples, followed by the predictor-corrector at the tenth sampling interval, accomplishing the desired speed and accuracy of discretisation. This newly proposed HDT in MPFOC is verified with Processor-In-Loop (PIL) for a three-phase IM with bi-directional rotation under varying load conditions. The results indicate that the IM torque ripple is reduced by up to 20%, whereas, the load handling capability is increased by up to 10%. Moreover, the controller gives 20% and 23% improvement in rise time and settling time, respectively, under high loading conditions, as compared to traditional Euler and Heun methods.
Impact of local mask mandates upon COVID-19 case rates in Oklahoma
Authors: Taylor Jared D. , McCann Melinda H. , Richter Scott J. , Matson Dakota , Robert Jordan
Published: June 2022

Use of face coverings has been shown to reduce transmission of SARS-CoV-2. Despite encouragements from the CDC and other public health entities, resistance to usage of masks remains, forcing government entities to create mandates to compel use. The state of Oklahoma did not create a state-wide mask mandate, but numerous municipalities within the state did. This study compares case rates in communities with mandates to those without mandates, at the same time and in the same state (thus keeping other mitigation approaches similar). Diagnosed cases of COVID-19 were extracted from the Oklahoma State Department of Health reportable disease database. Daily case rates were established based upon listed city of residence. The daily case rate difference between each locality with a mask mandate were compared to rates for the portions of the state without a mandate. All differences were then set to a d0 point of reference (date of mandate implementation). Piecewise linear regression analysis of the difference in SARS-CoV-2 infection rates between mandated and non-mandated populations before and after adoption of mask mandates was then done. Prior to adopting mask mandates, those municipalities that eventually adopted mandates had higher transmission rates than the rest of the state, with the mean case rate difference per 100,000 people increasing by 0.32 cases per day (slope of difference = 0.32; 95% CI 0.13 to 0.51). For the post-mandate time period, the differences are decreasing (slope of -0.24; 95% CI -0.32 to -0.15). The pre- and post- mandate slopes differed significantly (p<0.001). The change in slope direction (-0.59; 95% CI -0.80 to -0.37) shows a move toward reconvergence in new case diagnoses between the two populations. Compared to rates in communities without mask mandates, transmission rates of SARS-CoV-2 slowed notably in those communities that adopted a mask mandate. This study suggests that government mandates may play a role in reducing transmission of SARS-CoV-2, and other infectious respiratory conditions.
Expert consensus for a national essential antidote list: E-Delphi method
Authors: Al-Taweel Dalal , Koshy Samuel , Al-Ansari Sara , Al-Haqan Asmaa , Qabazard Bedoor
Published: June 2022

Antidote stocking represents a major challenge to hospitals all over the world, including Kuwait. In order to assist hospitals to reduce costs and improve patient care, an essential antidote list can be used as an initial foundation for securing sufficient antidote availability at healthcare institutions. The aim of our study is to generate a nationally relevant essential antidote list for emergency care hospitals in Kuwait using the e-Delphi method by establishing consensus through a multidisciplinary expert group of healthcare providers. An electronic survey with 47 essential antidotes was developed. The e-Delphi method was used, with three rounds of voting, to determine expert consensus on an essential antidote list for hospitals in Kuwait. A purposive sample of healthcare professionals from governmental and private hospitals were selected for this study (n = 30). Consensus was gained if ≥75% of the expert panel agreed on the inclusion of the antidote, without any strong disagreements. Round 1 of the e-Delphi resulted in 41 antidotes reaching consensus and seven new antidotes suggested by the expert panel. Round 2 had two antidotes (out of seven newly suggested ones) reaching consensus. Round 3 was a confirmatory round, where the expert group agreed on their previous rounds’ opinions. This resulted in the development of an essential antidote list with 43 antidotes. The optimal approach for ensuring adequate availability of antidotes is continuous monitoring of local poisoning incidence and antidote requirements through collaborations between academic researchers and emergency care clinicians. The development of an essential antidote list, with expert consensus, is one of the initial steps in securing a foundation for appropriate provision of antidotes at all healthcare institutions. This is the first study that the authors are aware of that demonstrates that the e-Delphi technique can consolidate recommendations of experts in emergency medicine to provide a list of essential antidotes.
Exchange rate sensitivity influencing the economy: The case of Sri Lanka
Authors: Thevakumar Presant , Jayathilaka Ruwan
Published: June 2022

This particular study investigated the possibility of modelling the exchange rate volatility of the USD/LKR currency pair and analysed whether macroeconomic factors influence the exchange rate. To model the exchange rate volatility, a combination of Autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) and generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (GARCH) family models were used. The ARDL model was utilized to explore the presence of dynamic short-run and long-run relationships between the exchange rate and macroeconomic variables. The ARDL model empirical findings inferred that a long-run relationship does not exist between any of the examined macroeconomic variables and the exchange rate. In contrast, a short-run relationship exists between exchange rate lag one, exchange rate lag two, inflation, and merchandising trade balance. Thereby, as per the findings improving the merchandising trade balance and minimising inflation would minimise volatility in the exchange rate. All stakeholders who are exposed to foreign exchange volatility including policymakers, importers, exporters, and financial institutions can benefit from this study’s findings. This research focused on the most recent economic phenomena of Sri Lanka and used Gross official reserve as a variable that was rarely used in existing literature on Sri Lankan exchange rate.
Barriers to accessing and engaging in healthcare as potential modifiers in the association between polyvictimization and mental health among Black transgender women
Authors: Sherman Athena D. F. , Balthazar Monique S. , Daniel Gaea , Bonds Johnson Kalisha , Klepper Meredith , Clark Kristen D. , Baguso Glenda N. , Cicero Ethan , Allure Kisha , Wharton Whitney , Poteat Tonia
Published: June 2022

Background

Black transgender women endure pervasive polyvictimization (experiencing multiple forms of violence throughout the lifespan). Polyvictimization is associated with poor mental health. Black transgender women also face barriers in access to healthcare, but the extent that such barriers modify the association between polyvictimization and poor mental health has not been described using convergent mixed-methods analysis.

Methods

This convergent mixed-methods secondary analysis employs an intersectional lens and integrates two inter-related datasets to describe barriers to healthcare and the extent that such barriers modify the association between polyvictimization and mental health among Black transgender women. Investigators used survey data (n = 151 participants) and qualitative interview data (n = 19 participants) collected from Black transgender women (age 18 years and older) in Baltimore, MD and Washington, DC between 2016 and 2018. Analyses include thematic content analysis, bivariate analysis, joint display, and multivariate linear regression analysis examining mediation and moderation.

Results

Joint display illuminated three domains to describe how barriers to healthcare present among Black transgender women–Affordability, Accessibility, and Rapport and Continuity. Independent t-tests revealed significantly higher polyvictimization, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and depression scores among participants who reported at least one barrier to healthcare (BHI) compared to those who reported no barriers. BHI significantly moderated and partially mediated the association between polyvictimization and PTSD symptom severity and BHI fully mediated the association between polyvictimization and depressive symptom severity–when accounting for age and location.

Discussion

Findings highlight the importance of access to healthcare in modifying the association between polyvictimization and PTSD and depression symptom severity among Black transgender women. Findings call for immediate interventions aimed at reducing barriers to healthcare and improved training for clinical providers serving Black transgender women.
Human intracardiac SSEA4+CD34- cells show features of cycling, immature cardiomyocytes and are distinct from Side Population and C-kit+CD45- cells
Authors: Sandstedt Mikael , Vukusic Kristina , Ulfenborg Benjamin , Jonsson Marianne , Mattsson Hultén Lillemor , Dellgren Göran , Jeppsson Anders , Synnergren Jane , Sandstedt Joakim
Published: June 2022

Cardiomyocyte proliferation has emerged as the main source of new cardiomyocytes in the adult. Progenitor cell populations may on the other hand contribute to the renewal of other cell types, including endothelial and smooth muscle cells. The phenotypes of immature cell populations in the adult human heart have not been extensively explored. We therefore investigated whether SSEA4+CD34- cells might constitute immature cycling cardiomyocytes in the adult failing and non-failing human heart. The phenotypes of Side Population (SP) and C-kit+CD45- progenitor cells were also analyzed. Biopsies from the four heart chambers were obtained from patients with end-stage heart failure as well as organ donors without chronic heart failure. Freshly dissociated cells underwent flow cytometric analysis and sorting. SSEA4+CD34- cells expressed high levels of cardiomyocyte, stem cell and proliferation markers. This pattern resembles that of cycling, immature, cardiomyocytes, which may be important in endogenous cardiac regeneration. SSEA4+CD34- cells isolated from failing hearts tended to express lower levels of cardiomyocyte markers as well as higher levels of stem cell markers. C-kit+CD45- and SP CD45- cells expressed high levels of endothelial and stem cell markers–corresponding to endothelial progenitor cells involved in endothelial renewal.
Association between Hashimoto thyroiditis and clinical outcomes of papillary thyroid carcinoma: A meta-analysis
Authors: Tang Qizhi , Pan Weiyu , Peng Liangyue
Published: June 2022

Objective

To assess association between Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT) and clinical outcomes of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC).

Methods

Databases including Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were searched. Weighed mean differences (WMDs) and odds ratios (ORs) were used to evaluate association between HT and clinical outcomes of PTC, and the effect size was represented by 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Heterogeneity test was performed for each indicator. If the heterogeneity statistic I2≥50%, random-effects model analysis was carried out, otherwise, fixed-effect model analysis was performed. Sensitivity analysis was performed for all outcomes, and publication bias was tested by Begg’s test.

Results

Totally 47,237 patients in 65 articles were enrolled in this study, of which 12909 patients with HT and 34328 patients without HT. Our result indicated that PTC patients with HT tended to have lower risks of lymph node metastasis (OR: 0.787, 95%CI: 0.686–0.903,P= 0.001), distant metastasis (OR: 0.435, 95%CI: 0.279–0.676,P<0.001), extrathyroidal extension (OR: 0.745, 95%CI: 0.657–0.845,P<0.001), recurrence (OR: 0.627, 95%CI: 0.483–0.813,P<0.001), vascular invasion (OR: 0.718, 95%CI: 0.572–0.901,P= 0.004), and a better 20-year survival rate (OR: 1.396, 95%CI: 1.109–1.758,P= 0.005) while had higher risks of multifocality (OR: 1.245, 95%CI: 1.132–1.368,P<0.001), perineural infiltration (OR: 1.922, 95%CI: 1.195–3.093,P= 0.007), and bilaterality (OR: 1.394, 95%CI: 1.118–1.739,P= 0.003).

Conclusions

PTC patients with HT may have favorable clinicopathologic characteristics, compared to PTCs without HT. More prospective studies are needed to further elucidate this relationship.
Trend and epidemiology of suicide attempts by self-poisoning among Egyptians
Authors: Kasemy Zeinab A. , Sharif Asmaa Fady , Amin Safaa Abdelzaher , Fayed Manar Maher , Desouky Dalia E. , Salama Amal A. , Abo Shereda Hanaa Mohammad , Abdel-Aaty Nehad B.
Published: June 2022

Suicide attempts by self-poisoning have become a critical health problem. This study aimed to investigate the trend, incidence, and the associated risk factors of suicide attempts by self-poisoning. A total of 7398 Egyptian patients were analyzed. The trend of suicide attempts by self-poisoning was analyzed using 6745 patients over four registry years from January 1, 2016, to January 1, 2020. Then, the associated risk factors behind attempted suicide by self-poisoning from January 1, 2019, to January 1, 2020, were assessed using 2523 suicide attempters by self-poisoning, 201 fatalities by self-poisoning, and another 653 survivors of accidental poisoning. Results showed a rising trend of suicide attempts by self-poisoning over the studied years. The incidence of suicide attempts through deliberate self-poisoning represented 26.63/1,000 (CI95%: 25.63–27.86) to the admitted patients and 26.10/100,000 (CI95%: 25.10–27.14) to the regional population. The death rate due to suicide attempts by self-poisoning was 2.08/100,000 (1.90–2.49). The case fatality rate and the proportionate mortality rate for suicide by self-poisoning were 7.38% (CI95%: 6.45–8.42) and 14.11% (CI95%: 12.4–16.0) respectively. Multivariate analysis revealed that attempted suicide by self-poisoning was predicted among patients aged <25 or 25–40 years old (OR = 27.49, CI95%: 15.28–49.64 and OR = 59.42, CI95%: 32.76–107.77 respectively), those of low or moderate socioeconomic status (OR = 35.03, CI95%: 21.32–57.56 and OR = 14.11, CI95%: 10.86–18.43 respectively), students (OR = 2.91, CI95%: 1.57–5.43) and those living in rural residency (OR = 4.12, CI95%: 3.27–5.19). Suicide attempts by self-poisoning exhibited an incremental rise across time which raises a serious concern. Efforts should be directed to overcome the mentioned risk factors triggering suicide attempts by self-poisoning.
A slow road from meat dominance to more sustainable diets: An analysis of purchase preferences among Finnish loyalty-card holders
Authors: Erkkola Maijaliisa , Kinnunen Satu M. , Vepsäläinen Henna R. , Meinilä Jelena M. , Uusitalo Liisa , Konttinen Hanna , Saarijärvi Hannu , Fogelholm Mikael , Nevalainen Jaakko
Published: June 2022

Achieving a sustainable and healthy diet requires increased replacement of red meat with more sustainable foods. There is a call for novel methodologies to assess the potential of different interventions and policies in enhancing the transition from the current to more sustainable choices. We aimed to characterize consumer clusters with similar preferences in protein sources, to compare the purchase prices of these foods, and to identify ongoing transitions from one protein source to another. Grocery purchase data with individual attributes on 29,437 consenting loyalty card holders were analyzed over 2.3 year period. We designed a sequence analysis to group participants to clusters with similar purchase preferences over the follow-up period and to estimate transition probabilities between preferences. We studied the determinants of prevalent purchase profiles by ordinal logistic models. We identified six participant profiles with similar preferences in four protein sources: red meat, poultry, fish, and plant-based foods. Red meat dominated the purchase preferences and showed the highest persistence over time. The majority (70%) of the participants demonstrated somewhat mixed purchase profiles. A step-by-step transition from red meat towards plant-based food preference seems most likely via poultry and fish. Overall, low income was not a barrier to a more sustainable purchase profile, while price may deter the purchase of fish. The most important resources in choosing more sustainable profiles were education and stage of family life. Societal incentives for sustainable food choices seem most crucial at transition stages of life course and for the less educated. Here, we also demonstrate that grocery purchase data offer a valuable tool for monitoring the progressive transition towards a healthy and sustainable food system.
A Novel SAVE Score to Stratify Decompensation Risk in Compensated Advanced Chronic Liver Disease (CHESS2102): An International Multicenter Cohort Study
Authors: Liu Chuan , Cao Zhujun , Yan Huadong , Wong Yu Jun , Xie Qing , Hirooka Masashi , Enomoto Hirayuki , Kim Tae Hyung , Hanafy Amr Shaaban , Liu Yanna , Huang Yifei , Li Xiaoguo , Kang Ning , Koizumi Yohei , Hiasa Yoichi , Nishimura Takashi , Iijima Hiroko , Jung Young Kul , Yim Hyung Joon , Guo Ying , Zhang Linpeng , Ma Jianzhong , Kumar Manoj , Jindal Ankur , Teh Kok Ban , Sarin Shiv Kumar , Qi Xiaolong
Published: June 2022

INTRODUCTION:

In patients with compensated advanced chronic liver disease (cACLD), the invasive measurement of hepatic venous pressure gradient is the best predictor of hepatic decompensation. This study aimed at developing an alternative risk prediction model to provide a decompensation risk assessment in cACLD.

METHODS:

Patients with cACLD were retrospectively included from 9 international centers within the Portal Hypertension Alliance in China (CHESS) network. Baseline variables from a Japanese cohort of 197 patients with cACLD were examined and fitted a Cox hazard regression model to develop a specific score for predicting hepatic decompensation. The novel score was validated in an external cohort (n = 770) from 5 centers in China, Singapore, Korea, and Egypt, and was further assessed for the ability of predicting clinically significant portal hypertension in a hepatic venous pressure gradient cohort (n = 285).

RESULTS:

In the derivation cohort, independent predictors of hepatic decompensation were identified including Stiffness of liver, Albumin, Varices, and platElets and fitted to develop the novel score, termed “SAVE” score. This score performed significantly better (all P < 0.05) than other assessed methods with a time-dependent receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.89 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.83–0.94) and 0.83 (95% CI: 0.73–0.92) in the derivation and validation cohorts, respectively. The decompensation risk was best stratified by the cutoff values at −6 and −4.5. The 5-year cumulative incidences of decompensation were 0%, 24.9%, and 69.0% in the low-risk, middle-risk, and high-risk groups, respectively (P < 0.001). The SAVE score also accurately predicted clinically significant portal hypertension (AUC, 0.85 95% CI: 0.80–0.90).

DISCUSSION:

The SAVE score can be readily incorporated into clinical practice to accurately predict the individual risk of hepatic decompensation in cACLD.
SILODAM
Authors: Folga Bekavac Alejandro Roman
Published: June 2022

En este artículo se analiza el proyecto de viviendas colectivas Silodam, desarrollado y construido entre 1995 y 2002 por el estudio MVRDV. Uno de los conceptos proyectuales que caracterizan a Silodam es el de ofrecer una gran cantidad de tipos de vivienda contenidas en un mismo edificio. Para llevar a cabo este análisis, en primer lugar se realiza una revisión crítica sobre algunos autores que reflexionan sobre la necesidad de diversidad tipológica en la vivienda colectiva contemporánea. En segundo lugar se estudian una serie de gráficos y diagramas ¾realizados por sus proyectistas¾ en los que se presentan los aspectos vinculados al diseño tipológico y la organización programática del edificio. Del estudio se concluye que dichos dibujos no solo muestran la propuesta realizada, sino que constituyen un discurso gráfico que utiliza estrategias retóricas para explicar la diversidad tipológica del edificio y además establecen una narrativa del proceso proyectual del que es resultado.
Investigación-Categoría A
Authors: Varios Autores
Published: June 2022

Premios Arquisur
Maqāṣidi Tafsir: Uncovering and Presenting Maqāṣid Ilāhī-Qur’anī into Contemporary Context
Authors: Wijaya Aksin , Muzammil Shofiyullah
Published: June 2022

This writing discusses maqāṣidi tafsīr (the interpretation that represents God’s intention). It endeavors to answer three questions: Firstly, what are models of maqāṣidi tafsīr that are in circulation? Secondly, what are their strengths and weaknesses? Thirdly, what are the true forms of maqāṣidi tafsīr? Historical approach is employed to answer the first question, whereas critical hermeneutics and philosophy are used to discussed the second and third questions. Using the intellectual history, the process of the formation of maqāṣidi tafsīr will be discovered; critical hermeneutics will uncover its strengths and weaknesses; and new frameworks will be formulated for contemporary contexts using philosophical hermeneutics. It is expected from this writing that maqāṣidi tafsīr will remain theologically, epistemologically and hermeneutically well-established so that it will be considered as one of alternative approaches in the Quranic studies. Three conclusions are drawn from this writing: firstly, maqāṣidi tafsīr is in the process of becoming a theory for studying the Qur’an. Secondly, maqāṣidi tafsīr does have strength and weaknesses. It originates from Islamic tradition, and becomes a kind of alternative-moderate between two extreme tafsīrs: textual and liberal-substantialist. Still, it is not yet well-established in term of theology, epistemology and hermeneutics. Third, maqāṣidi tafsīr combines three approaches in locating what God wants in the Quran, because it is not only textual, ideal-moral, but also spiritual-substantial. [Artikel ini membahas tafsir maqāṣid dengan menjawab tiga pertanyaan yaitu seperti apa model tafsir maqāṣid yang beredar saat ini, apa kelemahan dan kelebihan dari model tersebut, dan bagaimana bentuk tafsir maqāṣid yang sebenarnya. Pertanyaan pertama dijelaskan menggunakan pendekatan sejarah dan pertanyaan kedua dan ketiga dijelaskan menggunakan pendekatan hermeneutika kritis dan filosofis. Sejarah intelektual digunakan untuk menelusuri proses pembentukan tafsir maqāṣid sedangkan hermenuetika kritis digunakan untuk menilai kekuatan dan kelemahan serta hermeneutika filosofis untuk mereformulasi kerangka baru sesuai konteks kontemporer. Artikel ini mencoba meyakinkan secara teologis, epistemologis, dan hermeneutis bahwa tafsir maqāṣid akan semakin mapan dan bisa menjadi alternatif pendekatan dalan studi Qur’an. Tiga kesimpulan dalam artikel ini adalah pertama, tafsir maqāṣid sedang berproses menjadi sebuah teori dalam studi Qur’an. Kedua,meski mempunyai kelebihan dan kekurangan, pendekatan ini bisa menjadi alternatif moderat antara tafsir tektual dan liberal-subtansialis. Terakhir, pendekatan ini menggunakan tiga kerangka pikir dalam memahami maksud Tuhan dalam Qur’an, teks, ideal moral dan juga spiritual substansial.]
APPROACHES TO IMPROVE THE ANCHORING OF CARBON REINFORCED CONCRETE STRENGTHENING LAYERS
Authors: Würgau Carolin , Schumann Alexander , Nietner Lutz
Published: June 2022

Carbon reinforced concrete (CRC) has been researched in Germany for around 20 years by now. To strengthen structures with this building material, a grid of carbon fibre in a fine-grained concrete layer is applied e.g. to the bending tension zone of an existing reinforced concrete structure (RC). This increases the load bearing capacity of the structure. The grids have changed significantly over the past few years. They have larger fiber cross-sections and different impregnations, which results in tensile forces that are approx. 3 times higher than those of textiles of the older generation. However, this increase in tensile strength can entail additional failure mechanisms: In some tests on RC specimens strengthened with a higher number of CRC layers the tensile forces in the strengthening layer could no longer be fully transferred into the steel reinforcement concrete member and damage occurred, either in the RC structure, in the bonding area between the RC structure and the strengthening layer or within the strengthening layer. To enable an optimized utilization of the carbon grids in the future, the various forms of failure are examined more closely in a research project. Different solutions are derived. The focus of the investigationsis on the anchoring of the ends of the strengthening layers. The aim is to find constructive solutions to make better use of the carbon grids and thereby further increase both the economic efficiency and the ecological balance of carbon reinforced concrete.
BEST PRACTICES USED BY CONTRACTORS TO REDUCE HEAT-RELATED INJURIES ON CONSTRUCTION SITES
Authors: Oko D. Paul
Published: June 2022

Exposure to extreme heat and its negative effects on construction workers are perennial problems that require utmost attention. In Nevada, construction workers experience heat-related injuries (HRIs) and fatalities as a result of high temperatures. Despite evidence of heat-related fatalities and legislation recommending adoption of best practices to reduce occurrence of injuries on construction sites, it is not clear whether contractors are using any form of best practices to reduce the number of heat-related injuries that affect their workers. Consequently, a questionnaire was developed to determine whether contractors working in Nevada adopt and implement prescribed best practices and any other best practices developed by their respective organizations to curb the menace of HRIs occurring on construction sites. The survey was sent to 120 contractors, out of which 46 responded to the survey. The results showed that the best practices used by most of the contractors are: providing water regularly to the workers, providing a shed/place to rest for workers; and scheduling work shifts properly so that their workers can avoid unnecessary exposure to heat. Recommendations on best practices to reduce heat-related injuries and fatalities provided by the respondents are; preparing and implementing a comprehensive job-site safety plan, mandating contractors to work during periods of low temperature and creating public awareness about HRIs.
MITIGATING KEY BARRIERS TO PROMOTE SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION: A THEORETICAL ASSESSMENT
Authors: Cooper Baccus B.K.
Published: June 2022

The construction industry is a significant consumer of energy, natural resources, and water, as well as a major polluter. The need to construct more facilities to meet society's needs has exacerbated the construction industry's inherited detrimental effects on achieving long-term sustainability. In order to foster these endeavors, this paper aims to mitigate sustainable construction barriers in order to promote sustainability in South Africa. To accomplish the goal, three (3) major innovative practices were identified through cross-analysis of structured interviews with reference to published theoretical literature. The primary findings indicate that (1) energy conservation, (2) material conservation, and (3) water conservation are the most influential innovative practices for reducing barriers to promoting sustainable construction in South Africa. To be considered sustainable, a building must meet certain criteria such as resource and energy efficiency, emission reduction, pollution prevention, noise reduction, and improved indoor air quality, which are some of the common parameters, and it must be based on integrated and systematic approaches. The findings of the study will benefit and will add to the body of existing knowledge of construction industry professionals, owners, and policymakers.
EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION OF MARBLE DUST CONCRETE IN ARTIFICIAL SEA WATER
Authors: Agrawal Nikhil Santoshkumar , Srivastava Anshuman , Singh Manpreet , Khapre Rajendra
Published: June 2022

This study investigates the importance of marble dust (MD) containing concrete in artificial sea water, the use of marble dust as a partial substitute of cement in concrete mix with water binder ratio as 0.45. The proportion of substitution of marble dust with cement is ranging from 2.5% & 5% by cement weights were evaluated. The objective of the study is curing of concrete specimens containing marble dust in normal water and artificial sea water (ASW). Artificial sea water was prepared by using various chemicals compositions in normal water. Cube specimens were kept in artificial sea water of salt concentration 20N for the period of 7 days, 28 days and compressive strength was determined. Compressive strength test was performed to investigate in marble dust concrete (MDC) in artificial sea water (ASW) on strength development of concrete in coastal areas. The result of this study is revealed that substitution of marble dust significantly improved the quality of concrete with respect to its compressive strength in artificial sea water.
WORKABILITY AND FLEXURAL STRENGTH OF CONCRETE REINFORCED WITH BASALT MACRO-FIBERS
Authors: Shoaib Shahrukh , El-Maaddawy Tamer , El-Hassan Hilal , El-Ariss Bilal , Alsalami Marwa
Published: June 2022

The effect of using basalt macro-fibers (BMF) rather than basalt fiber filaments on concrete properties has received little attention. The aim of this paper is to examine the workability and tensile properties of normal-strength concrete mixes reinforced with different BMF volume fractions of 0.5, 1, and 1.5%. Compacting factor, slump, and vebe time tests were conducted on fresh concrete mixes to examine the workability of the concrete. Splitting and flexural strength tests were conducted on concrete specimens at 28 days of age to examine the tensile properties. The compacting factor of the BMF-reinforced concrete mixes was up to 14% lower than that of a plain control mix without fibers. The plain concrete exhibited a slump of 220 mm, whereas that of the concrete mixes with BMF was in the range of 50 to 85 mm. The vebe time increased with an increase in the BMF volume fraction, indicating a reduced concrete workability. In contrast, the inclusion of BMF improved the tensile properties of the concrete. The splitting tensile strength gain was in the range of 10 to 52%, whereas the increase in the flexural strength ranged from 18 to 56%. The addition of BMF has also improved the flexural toughness of the tested specimens. The unique flexural test results reported in this paper can be employed in future research along with an inverse finite element analysis to develop tensile softening constitutive laws of concrete with different BMF volume fractions.