bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Scintillation index and outage probability of vortex Gaussian beams for horizontal links in weak atmospheric turbulence
Authors: Gerçekcioğlu Hamza , Baykal Yahya 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Using the Rytov method, the off-axis scintillation index for a Gaussian vortex beam is examined in horizontal laser communication links operating in a weakly turbulent atmosphere. The performance of laser communication systems, defined in this study by the outage probability, is evaluated using the lognormal distributed intensity to find the scintillation index. The off-axis scintillation index of vortex Gaussian beams is analytically derived and evaluated in horizontal atmospheric links. The scintillation index obtained from the figures drawn versus the source size and propagation length is used to calculate the outage probability. It is found that turbulence affects vortex Gaussian beams less than non-vortex Gaussian beams. Our important finding is that the scintillation index is reduced when the topological charge increases.
The impact of land use change on food security under the background of rapid urbanization - a case study of Xiamen city
Authors: Zhang Tianhai , Sun Wenqing , Xiao Jiangtao , Yan Guanfeng 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
China has undergone a long period of rapid urbanization from 2000 to 2020, resulted in huge conversion of arable land into built-up areas. This situation has raised concerns regarding food security, including issues like reduced food supply and challenges to achieving food self-sufficiency, particularly in certain regions and during special period. To address these issues, this study focuses on Xiamen, a rapidly urbanizing coastal city in China, and examined both the food supply and demand. On hand of the supply, this study mainly analyzed the attributes of the food availability, indicators like the food production (FP) of the ecosystem service value (ESV), per capita grain production, imports and exports along with food price were calculated. The findings revealed a significant expansion of built-up areas in Xiamen, mostly at the expense of arable land. The declining arable land coupled with population growth due to rapid urbanization contributed to a decrease in per capita grain production, drop to 6 kg in 2018, which is merely 1% of China’s average. A comparison of per capita grain production across various regions, as well as changes in China’s grain import and export, highlighted a notable discrepancy between urbanization rates and food security in Xiamen. It has become challenging for Xiamen to rely on outside for sustained food import. Therefore, it is imperative for Xiamen to implement a range of measures and policy interventions to ensure a certain level of food self-sufficiency and protect basic arable land.
Hyperspectral quantitative phase microscopy for decoupling refractive index and thickness of thin transparent samples
Authors: Joshi Himanshu , Surya Varun , Mishra Deepika , Mehta Dalip Singh 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Quantitative phase microscopy (QPM) is a label-free imaging technique that has revolutionized transparent sample analysis. It offers precise insights into the sub-wavelength morphological composition of the sample by generating quantitative maps of optical path length delay. However, its potential for explicit study of the microscopic composition of the samples is limited by coupled information of refractive index (RI) and thickness. In this work, we present a technique that effectively decouples RI and thickness from the phase map, using high spectral resolution hyperspectral QPM in conjunction with the higher-order Cauchy dispersion equation. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is established through validation on a simulated phase object, where the recovered RI and thickness values agree well with the pre-assigned values. Further, the versatility of this technique is demonstrated through successful application to thin transparent industrial objects and biological samples, positioning it as a promising tool for decoupling RI and thickness with minimal assumptions for various transparent specimens.
Design, analysis and experimental characterization of MEMS based one hot-arm electrothermal actuator
Authors: Javaid Faraz , Bashir Uzair , Saleem Muhammad Mubasher , Arshad Adeel , Tiwana Mohsin Islam , Ali Osama 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
The focus of this study is to analyse the temperature, stress, and mechanical displacement distribution of a U-shaped one hot-arm Microelectromechanical System (MEMS) based electrothermal actuator using CoventorWare software. The actuator was fabricated using the commercially available SOIMUMPs process from Science. The Finite Element Method (FEM) simulation results were verified through the experimental characterization of fabricated structure at different actuation voltages and are found to be in good agreement. Furthermore, peak value of actuation voltage is measured before the failure of the electrothermal structure occurs.
Multiplayer game dynamics and their applications into simplicial complexes with memory effect
Authors: Cui Heng , Zhu Yuying , Xia Chengyi 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
We investigate the evolutionary dynamics of the multiplayer, snowdrift-like game based on memory effects, in which cooperators and defectors interact with another type of player named as exiter. To avoid being exploited by defectors, the conservative exiters tend to drop out of a game and merely share quite minor returns. Results on the well-mixed populations indicate that the existence of exiters is less conducive to cooperation. Whereas, in networks with simplicial complexes, the memory effect can effectively inhibit evolution of defection and promote cooperation. Other outcomes with respect to the evolution of exiters and defectors, including the co-existence of all three types of players in the network and the favor of exiter, can be obtained by tuning the payoff to exit and the proportion of 1-simplices and 2-simplices. The current results provide insight into how mutual cooperation emerges in real networked populations, influenced by the memory-based exit options.
Childhood anaesthesia and autism risk: population and murine study
Authors: Sun Mingyang , Fu Ningning , Li Ting , Miao Mengrong , Chen Wan-Ming , Wu Szu-Yuan , Zhang Jiaqiang 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Early childhood exposure to general anaesthesia has been linked to potential changes in infant brain morphology and behaviour in preclinical studies, contributing to long-term behaviours associated with autism spectrum disorder. This study investigates the association between early childhood exposure to general anaesthesia and the risk of autism, using a population-based cohort study with matching for baseline characteristics and evaluates the effect of sevoflurane exposure on autism-like behaviour in mice, using the Taiwan Maternal and Child Health Database. Children aged 0–3 who received at least one exposure to general anaesthesia between 2004 and 2014 were matched 1:1 with children who were not exposed. Risk ratios and confidence intervals were used to assess the relationship between general anaesthesia and the occurrence of autism. Additionally, mice were exposed to sevoflurane for 2 h on postnatal days 5–7, and changes in behaviour related to autism were evaluated. Propensity score matching resulted in 7530 children in each group. The incidence rates (IRs) of autism were 11.26 and 6.05 per 100 000 person-years in the exposed and unexposed groups, respectively. The incidence ratio for autism following exposure to general anaesthesia was 1.86 (95% confidence interval, 1.34–2.59). In mice, sevoflurane exposure induced autism-like behaviours and led to the downregulation of high-risk autism genes, including ARID1B, GABRA5, GABRB3, GRIN2B, SHANK3 and SUV420H1. Early childhood exposure to general anaesthesia is associated with an increased risk of autism. Repeated exposure to sevoflurane in mice induces autism-like behaviours, suggesting a potential link between anaesthesia and the development of autism.
Optimization of bio-oil production parameters from the pyrolysis of elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum) using response surface methodology
Authors: Ikpeseni Sunday C , Sada Samuel O , Efetobor Ufuoma J , Orugba Henry O , Ekpu Mathias , Owamah Hilary I , Chukwuneke Jeremiah L , Oyebisi Solomon , Onochie Uche P 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
The need to increase bio-oil yield from biomass and enhance its fuel properties has driven research into optimizing the pyrolysis process. This study investigated the influence of three key process parameters—temperature, heating rate, and nitrogen flow rate—on the pyrolysis of elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum) in a fixed-bed reactor. Response surface methodology was used to study the impact of the aforementioned variables on bio-oil yield to improve its production efficiency. Proximate analysis of the biomass revealed 79.24 wt% volatile matter, 14.22 wt% fixed carbon, and 5.86% ash, with ultimate analysis showing 45.44% carbon, 5.59% hydrogen, and 40.95% oxygen. The high volatile matter content and favourable carbon and hydrogen percentages indicate that elephant grass is a viable energy source due to its potential for high bio-oil yield and energy content. The resulting bio-oil exhibited a higher heating value of 20.9 MJ/kg, indicating its suitability for various heating applications. A second-order regression model was developed for bio-oil yield, with optimal conditions identified as a temperature of 550°C, a heating rate of 17°C/min, and a nitrogen flow rate of 6 ml/min. The study achieved an optimal bio-oil yield of 59.03 wt%, and the model’s high R² value of 0.8683 from analysis of variance analysis confirmed its predictive accuracy. This research highlights elephant grass as a sustainable feedstock for bio-oil production, offering valuable insights into optimizing pyrolysis conditions to enhance bio-oil yield, thus advancing biofuel technology.
Multigraph reconstruction via nonlinear random walk
Authors: de Kemmeter Jean-François , Carletti Timoteo 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Over the last few years, network science has proved to be useful in modelling a variety of complex systems, composed of a large number of interconnected units. The intricate pattern of interactions often allows the system to achieve complex tasks, such as synchronization or collective motions. In this regard, the interplay between network structure and dynamics has long been recognized as a cornerstone of network science. Among dynamical processes, random walks are undoubtedly among the most studied stochastic processes. While traditionally, the random walkers are assumed to be independent, this assumption breaks down if nodes are endowed with a finite carrying capacity, a feature shared by many real-life systems. Recently, a class of nonlinear diffusion processes accounting for the finite carrying capacities of the nodes was introduced. The stationary nodes densities were shown to be nonlinearly correlated with the nodes degrees, allowing to uncover the network structure by performing a few measurements of the stationary density at the level of a single arbitrary node and by solving an inverse problem. In this work, we extend this class of nonlinear diffusion processes to the case of multigraphs, in which links between nodes carry distinct attributes. Assuming the knowledge of the pattern of interactions associated with one type of links, we show how the degree distribution of the whole multigraph can be reconstructed. The effectiveness of the reconstruction algorithm is demonstrated through simulations on various multigraph topologies.
Flecainide toxicity with pill-in-pocket approach from accidental overdose: a case report
Authors: Oudih Mohamad Anas , Ginsburg Avraham , Hakim Mumin , Zou Fengwei , Guttenplan Nils 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
The Pill-in-the-Pocket (PiP) approach may be used in highly selected patients to achieve acute pharmacological cardioversion into sinus rhythm. Flecainide toxicity is rarely reported, especially with patients who take flecainide as PiP, and only limited evidence exists in its management. We present a case of accidental flecainide overdose for a patient who is on PiP and the acute management strategy.

Case summary
A 78-year-old female with persistent atrial fibrillation (AF), previously underwent pulmonary vein isolation and maintained on verapamil 240 mg twice daily, presented to the electrophysiology clinic following a recent hospital admission for recurrent AF. Due to infrequent recurrent episodes of symptomatic AF, the patient preferred to avoid both repeat ablation and additional daily medications. After an initial trial on telemetric monitoring, a PiP approach with flecainide 300 mg was adopted. Unfortunately, palpitations and dyspnoea in the context of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbation led the patient to self-medicate with multiple doses of albuterol and flecainide. Twelve-lead electrocardiogram showed slow AF with a wide QRS complex. The patient received 1 g of calcium gluconate with a 180 mEq bolus of sodium bicarbonate 8.4% and was started on continuous sodium bicarbonate infusion at 150 mL/h. Over a 12 h period, the QRS complex narrowed down, and the rhythm returned to normal sinus rhythm with a QRS interval of 136 ms.

Discussion
The PiP strategy with flecainide is safe and effective. Reinforcement of medication dosing and frequency with patient read back is key to avoid accidental toxicity, which could be life-threatening. Treatment with sodium bicarbonate is quick and highly effective.
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement-in-transcatheter aortic valve replacement for high-risk anatomies: demonstrating the feasibility of index leaflet overhang in a first-in-human case report
Authors: De Ferrari Tommaso , Ancona Marco B , Romano Vittorio , Ferri Luca , Russo Filippo , Agricola Eustachio , Esposito Antonio , Montorfano Matteo 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR)-in-TAVR within index supra-annular transcatheter heart valves (THVs) and high-risk anatomy can compromise coronary perfusion and re-access.

Case summary
An 80-year-old male presented with acute heart failure caused by degeneration of an Evolut R THV, leading to severe aortic regurgitation. Aortic computed tomography imaging revealed a high-risk anatomy characterized by the index THV’s commissural plane being placed above the coronary ostia and a valve-to-aorta distance of less than 2 mm, resulting not eligible for redo-TAVR according to recent literature. The current case represents the first-in-human application of redo-TAVR with low SAPIEN 3 THV implantation within an Evolut R THV obtaining index leaflet overhang, preserving coronary perfusion and potential coronary re-engagement.

Discussion
Following in vitro study, this case demonstrates in vivo feasibility of redo-TAVR with low SAPIEN 3 THV implantation within an Evolut R THV obtaining index leaflet overhang.
Implementation of an EHR-integrated web-based depression assessment in primary care: PORTAL-Depression
Authors: Franco Melissa I , Staab Erin M , Zhu Mengqi , Deehan William , Moses John , Gibbons Robert , Vinci Lisa , Shah Sachin , Yohanna Daniel , Beckman Nancy , Laiteerapong Neda 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objectives
To integrate a computerized adaptive test for depression into the electronic health record (EHR) and establish systems for administering assessments in-clinic and via a patient portal to improve depression care.

Materials and Methods
This article reports the adoption, implementation, and maintenance of a health information technology (IT) quality improvement (QI) project, Patient Outcomes Reporting for Timely Assessment of Life with Depression (PORTAL-Depression). The project was conducted in a hospital-based primary care clinic that serves a medically underserved metropolitan community. A 30-month (July 2017-March 2021) QI project was designed to create an EHR-embedded system to administer adaptive depression assessments in-clinic and via a patient portal. A multi-disciplinary team integrated 5 major health IT innovations into the EHR: (1) use of a computerized adaptive test for depression assessment, (2) 2-way secure communication between cloud-based software and the EHR, (3) improved accessibility of depression assessment results, (4) enhanced awareness and documentation of positive depression results, and (5) sending assessments via the portal. Throughout the 30-month observational period, we collected administrative, survey, and outcome data.

Results
Attending and resident physicians who participated in the project were trained in depression assessment workflows through presentations at clinic meetings, self-guided online materials, and individual support. Developing stakeholder relationships, using an evaluative and iterative process, and ongoing training were key implementation strategies.

Conclusions
The PORTAL-Depression project was a complex and labor-intensive intervention. Despite quick adoption by the clinic, only certain aspects of the intervention were sustained in the long term due to financial and personnel constraints.
Development and validation of a deep learning algorithm for the prediction of serum creatinine in critically ill patients
Authors: Ghanbari Ghodsieh , Lam Jonathan Y , Shashikumar Supreeth P , Awdishu Linda , Singh Karandeep , Malhotra Atul , Nemati Shamim , Yousif Zaid 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objectives
Serum creatinine (SCr) is the primary biomarker for assessing kidney function; however, it may lag behind true kidney function, especially in instances of acute kidney injury (AKI). The objective of the work is to develop Nephrocast, a deep-learning model to predict next-day SCr in adult patients treated in the intensive care unit (ICU).

Materials and Methods
Nephrocast was trained and validated, temporally and prospectively, using electronic health record data of adult patients admitted to the ICU in the University of California San Diego Health (UCSDH) between January 1, 2016 and June 22, 2024. The model features consisted of demographics, comorbidities, vital signs and laboratory measurements, and medications. Model performance was evaluated by mean absolute error (MAE) and root-mean-square error (RMSE) and compared against the prediction day’s SCr as a reference.

Results
A total of 28 191 encounters met the eligibility criteria, corresponding to 105 718 patient-days. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) MAE and RMSE in the internal test set were 0.09 (0.085-0.09) mg/dL and 0.15 (0.146-0.152) mg/dL, respectively. In the prospective validation, the MAE and RMSE were 0.09 mg/dL and 0.14 mg/dL, respectively. The model’s performance was superior to the reference SCr.

Discussion and Conclusion
Our model demonstrated good performance in predicting next-day SCr by leveraging clinical data routinely collected in the ICU. The model could aid clinicians in in identifying high-risk patients for AKI, predicting AKI trajectory, and informing the dosing of renally eliminated drugs.
Magnification calibration of X-ray 3D microscopy using micro-line structures
Authors: Azuma Yasushi , Kumagai Kazuhiro , Kunishima Naoki , Ito Koichiro 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
X-ray microscopy using computed tomography is an excellent 3D imaging instrument. Three-dimensional X-ray microscopy (3DXRM) is a nondestructive imaging technique used to inspect internal and external structures in units of submicrometers or less. The 3DXRM, although attractive, is mostly used as an observation instrument and is limited as a measurement system in quantitative evaluation and quality control. Calibration is required for use in measurement systems such as coordinate measurement systems, and specific standard samples and evaluation procedures are needed. The certified values of the standard samples must ideally be traceable to the International System of Units (SI). In the 3DXRM measurement system, line structures (LSs) are fabricated as prototype standard samples to conduct magnification calibration. In this study, we evaluated the LS intervals using calibrated cross-sectional scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A comparison of the evaluation results between SEM and 3DXRM for the LS intervals provided the magnification calibration factor for 3DXRM and validated the LSs, whereby the interval methods and feasibility of constructing an SI traceability system were evaluated using the calibrated SEM. Consequently, a magnification calibration factor of 1.01 was obtained for 3DXRM based on the intervals of the LSs evaluated by SEM. A possible route for realizing SI-traceable magnification calibration of 3DXRM has been presented.
Latent profiles and predictors of barriers to care in Swiss children and adolescents with rare diseases
Authors: Wehrli Susanne , Baumgartner Matthias R , Dwyer Andrew A , Landolt Markus A 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Objective
Children and adolescents with rare diseases face significant barriers when accessing healthcare. We aimed to assess and predict these barriers and investigate associations with health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

Method
We conducted a cross-sectional survey of Swiss parents (N = 189) of children with rare diseases including the Barriers to Care Questionnaire (BCQ), containing six barriers and the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL). Latent profile analysis (LPA) was used to uncover distinct classes, which were compared using chi-square tests and Mann–Whitney U tests. Relevant medical and sociodemographic class predictors were identified using Elastic Net regression, followed by regression analysis to investigate their role in predicting barriers to care and examine the effects of these classes on HRQoL.

Results
Two distinct groups were identified, a higher barriers class (59%) and a lower barriers class (41%). In the higher barriers class, participants showed elevated scores across all subscales and specifically on pragmatics and expectations. More barriers to care were linked to a nonstable disease course (OR = 2.27, p = .002) and a diagnosis after the age of 3 months (OR = 2.17, p = .006). Individuals in the higher barriers class exhibited more psychological comorbidities (p = .044), congenital malformations/deformations/chromosomal abnormalities (p=.042), and medical misdiagnoses (p = .006). Children in the higher barriers class had significantly lower PedsQL scores compared to the lower barriers class (p &lt;.05).

Conclusion
This study highlights the need for comprehensive assessment of barriers to pediatric care in rare diseases, offering potential entry points for targeted interventions.