bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of Room Layout on Natural Gas Explosion in Kitchen
Authors: Yang Kai , Wu Hao , Chen Ye , Pang Lei 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

In order to elucidate the overpressure and fire hazard effects of gas explosion in a congested room, the effects of gas concentration and room layout of gas explosion in a kitchen were studied by CFD. The results showed that the flow field parameters in a kitchen exhibited an initial increase followed by a decrease as the gas concentration increased. The maximum gas flow rate recorded within the chamber was 390 m/s, while the corresponding maximum flame propagation rate and peak pressure reached 289.86 m/s and 30.95 kPa, respectively. The difference in the flow field induced by the concentration is further enhanced by the presence of congested materials. Additionally, the room layout influenced the gas congestion’s blowout effect due to variations in turbulence intensity and flammable gas volume caused by significant changes in the congestion’s size within the room. Specifically, when gas concentration is 10%, the indoor gas flow rate and flame combustion rate are II > U > L > I, while the turbulent kinetic energy and explosive overpressure followed the order of I > II > L > U. The results are of great significance for the disaster assessment and accident prevention of natural gas explosion in civil kitchens.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Guided Single-Fraction Preoperative Radiotherapy for Early Stage Breast Cancer (The RICE Trial): Feasibility Study
Authors: Qadir Ayyaz , Singh Nabita , Dean Jenna , Brown Kerryn , Tacey Mark , Mann Bruce , Kron Tomas , Cahoon Glenn , Lau Eddie , Scot Andrew M , Yeo Belinda , Loh Su-Wen , Uribe Sergio , Moe Aung Aung Kywe , Ireland-Jenkins Kerryn , McAuley Rosly , McDermont Leah , Ooi Wei Ming , Ng Suat , Chao Michael , Foroudi Farshad 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Over the past decade, the adoption of screening programs, digital mammography, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has increased early-stage breast cancer diagnosis rates. Mortality rates have decreased due to early detection, improved treatments, including personalized therapies. Accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) is emerging as a convenient and effective treatment for some patients, with studies exploring its preoperative use. Preoperative APBI, especially with MRI guidance, offers improved tumor targeting and reduced side effects. Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Guided Single Fraction Pre-operative Radiotherapy for Early-Stage Breast Cancer (RICE trial) aims to assess the feasibility and efficacy of MRI-guided single-dose radiotherapy for early-stage breast cancer.
Methods
The RICE study is a prospective, single-arm study evaluating single fraction pre-operative, accelerated partial breast irradiation treatment for patients with early-stage breast cancer using a Magnetic Resonance Imaging Linear Accelerator (MR Linac). Eligible patients enrolled in this study will have a core biopsy to confirm estrogen receptor positive and Her2 negative subtype. Radiotherapy planning will use a planning computed tomography (CT) co-registered with a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with the patient in either the supine or prone position. For the diagnostic workup, [18F] Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/CT ([18F] FDG PET/CT) and [18] Fluoroestradiol Positron Emission Tomography/CT ([18F] FES PET/CT) will be performed prior to treatment. Thirty patients will receive a single ablative RT dose of 21 Gy to the tumor. Pre- and post-treatment MRI scans will be acquired at baseline and 5 weeks post radiotherapy respectively. Breast-conserving surgery will be scheduled for 6 weeks after APBI treatment using the MR Linac.
Trial Registration
This trial is registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR). Registered 31st of May 2021. Registration number: ACTRN12621000659808 https://anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?ACTRN=12621000659808
Predictive factors and survival outcome of conversion therapy for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma patients receiving atezolizumab and bevacizumab: Comparative analysis of conversion, partial response and complete response cases.
Authors: Hatanaka Takeshi , Kakizaki Satoru , Hiraoka Atsushi , Tada Toshifumi , Hirooka Masashi , Kariyama Kazuya , Tani Joji , Atsukawa Masanori , Takaguchi Koichi , Itobayashi Ei , Fukunishi Shinya , Tsuji Kunihiko , Ishikawa Toru , Tajiri Kazuto , Toyoda Hidenori , Ogawa Chikara , Nishikawa Hiroki , Nishikawa Takashi , Kawata Kazuhito , Kosaka Hisashi , Naganuma Atsushi , Yata Yutaka , Ohama Hideko , Kuroda Hidekatsu , Matono Tomomitsu , Aoki Tomoko , Kanayama Yuki , Tanaka Kazunari , Tada Fujimasa , Nouso Kazuhiro , Morishita Asahiro , Tsutsui Akemi , Nagano Takuya , Itokawa Norio , Okubo Tomomi , Arai Taeang , Imai Michitaka , Nakamura Shinichiro , Enomoto Hirayuki , Kaibori Masaki , Hiasa Yoichi , Kudo Masatoshi , Kumada Takashi 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Aim
This study aims to investigate the predictive factors for conversion therapy in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (uHCC) and to evaluate the prognosis of conversion cases by comparing them with partial response (PR) and complete response (CR) cases.
Methods
In this retrospective multicenter study, we included a total of 946 uHCC patients treated with atezolizumab and bevacizumab (Atez/Bev) from September 2020 to September 2023.
Results
Out of the patients, 43 (4.5%) received conversion therapy following Atez/Bev treatment. The overall response rate was 65.1% and 23.7% in the conversion and non-conversion group, with a statistical significance (p < 0.001). Multivariate analyses show that BCLC stage B or an earlier stage (p = 0.045), absence of macrovascular invasion and extrahepatic spread (p = 0.045), and a low value of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (p = 0.04) were significantly favorable predictive factors associated with conversion therapy. The conversion group showed significantly better survival compared to the non-conversion group (p < 0.001). In the landmark analysis at 6, 12, and 18 months, the conversion group exhibited better survival compared to PR patients in the non-conversion group (p = 0.04, 0.01, and 0.03, respectively) and there were no significant differences in the overall survival (OS) between the conversion group and achieving CR cases (p = 0.7, 1.0, and 0.3, respectively)
Conclusions
Patients with low tumor burden and low value of NLR were more likely to undergo conversion therapy. The OS of patients undergoing conversion therapy showed better survival compared to those achieving PR and was comparable to those with CR patients. Conversion therapy should be considered if feasible.
Association analysis of the Ex3 VNTR polymorphism of the DRD4 dopamine receptor gene with personality traits in patients with a behavioural addiction
Authors: Boroń Agnieszka , Recław Remigiusz , Chmielowiec Krzysztof , Chmielowiec Jolanta , Strońska-Pluta Aleksandra , Kowalski Michał Tomasz , Masiak Jolanta , Gibas-Dorna Magdalena , Trybek Grzegorz , Grzy-wacz Anna 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Results In behavioural and amphetamine addicts with a higher level of the STAI trait scale and a higher level of the Neuroticism scale, the DRD4 Ex3 s/s gene polymorphism occurred significantly more often compared to the control group with the s/s polymorphism and the l/l and s/l polymorphism. Similarly, in people addicted to behavioural and amphetamine with a higher level of the STAI trait scale and a higher level of the Neuroticism scale, the DRD4 Ex3 s/l gene polymorphism occurred significantly more frequently compared to the control group with the s/s polymorphism. Conclusions: In the presented study, we see that ad-dictions should be analysed multifactorial. We can conclude that DRD4 and its polymorphic variant influence addiction development.
Effectiveness of a web-based foot-ankle exercises program for treating modifiable risk factors for ulcers in people with diabetic neuropathy: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ferreira Jane Suelen S. P. , Cruvinel-Júnior Ronaldo H. , Silva Erica Q. , Veríssimo Jady L. , Monteiro Renan. L , Duarte Marcos , Giacomozzi Claudia , Sacco Isabel C. N. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The need for strategies to prevent complications arising from diabetic neuropathy (DPN) is well recognized, yet foot-ankle exercises programs present weak to moderate evidence and barriers persist in their implementation, including the democratization of access to exercise programs. In this paper, we report for the first time the effectiveness of a web-based foot-ankle exercises program aiming to improve DPN-related outcomes, gait biomechanics and functional outcomes. Sixty-two participants with DPN were randomly allocated into the control group (CG;n=31), which received the usual care, or the intervention group (IG;n=31), which received the usual care plus a 12-week foot-ankle exercises program using a web-based software (the SOPeD software). Outcomes were assessed at baseline, 12 and 24 weeks by an assessor blinded to group allocation. DPN symptoms and severity remained unchanged after the web-based foot-ankle program; however, IG showed improvements compared to CG, with greater functional reach at 12 weeks, better foot function, reduced foot pain and greater plantarflexion during push-off at 24 weeks. Regarding plantar loadings during gait, there was a forefoot pressure reduction at 12 weeks compared to baseline, but at 24 weeks, forefoot loads increased in the IG compared to CG. The 12-week web-based foot-ankle exercise program was feasible, acceptable, demonstrating safety with minimal adverse events. While DPN-related outcomes were unaffected by the 12-week SOPeD program, modest improvements in foot pain and function, functional reach, and changes in plantar pressure and plantarflexion during gait were noted, mostly at 24 weeks.
Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04011267. Registered on 8 July 2019.
MANAGEMENT Practices for Children IN Sickle Cell Crisis in Selected Hospitals in Northern Malawi.
Authors: Kumwenda Maria Mtangwa , Phiri Ettah Chimbe , Mpasa Ferestas 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Sickle cell crisis is a common complication of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) that is responsible for frequent hospitalizations among children. The condition carries a mortality rate of 50% − 90%. If appropriate care is not rendered, it can lead to early child mortality. The aim of the study was to assess the quality of care provided to hospitalized children in sickle cell crisis in selected hospitals in Northern Malawi.
Methods
A quantitative descriptive cross-sectional design was used to assess the quality of care provided to hospitalized children in sickle cell crisis at a tertiary, district and mission hospitals in the Northern Region of Malawi. Data was collected from files of 124 children admitted in sickle cell crisis from 2019 to 2021 using a checklist that was developed from WHO, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), and Queens Paediatric Guidelines for the management of SCD while analysis was done using SPSS version 20.
Results
The results showed suboptimal quality of care as most children did not receive the recommended interventions such as oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids, the correct amount of intravenous fluids, and timely pain relief medication as stipulated by the guidelines for the management of SCD.
Conclusions
The study gave some insights regarding quality of care for children in sickle cell crisis in the Region. It can, therefore, be concluded that ensuring the availability and accessibility of SCD management guidelines, pain assessment tools in Paediatric care settings would improve clinical practice.
Diagnostic value of combined CT lymphangiography and 99 Tc m -DX lymphoscintigraphy in primary chylopericardium
Authors: Zhang Yimeng , Guo Jia , Wen Zhe , Liu Mengke , Li Xingpeng , Zhang Mingxia , Wang Rengui 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objective
To investigate the diagnostic value of combined 99Tcm-DX lymphoscintigraphy and CT lymphangiography (CTL) in primary chylopericardium.
Methods
༚Fifty-five patients diagnosed with primary chylopericardium clinically were retrospectively analyzed. 99Tcm-DX lymphoscintigraphy and CTL were performed in all patients. Primary chylopericardium was classified into three types, according to the 99Tcm-DX lymphoscintigraphy results. The evaluation indexes of CTL include: (1) abnormal contrast distribution in the neck, (2) abnormal contrast distribution in the chest, (3) dilated thoracic duct was defined as when the widest diameter of thoracic duct was > 3 mm, (4) abnormal contrast distribution in abdominal. CTL characteristics were analyzed between different groups, and P < 0.05 was considered a statistically significant difference.
Results
Primary chylopericardium showed 12 patients of type Ⅰ, 14 patients with type II, and 22 patients with type III. The incidence of abnormal contrast distribution in the posterior mediastinum was greater in type I than type III (P = 0.003). The incidence of abnormal contrast distribution in the pericardial and aortopulmonary windows, type I was greater than type III (P = 0.008). And the incidence of abnormal distribution of contrast agent in the bilateral cervical or subclavian region was greater in type II than type III (P = 0.002).
Conclusion
The combined application of the 99Tcm-DX lymphoscintigraphy and CTL is of great value for the localized and qualitative diagnosis of primary chylopericardium and explore the pathogenesis of lesions.
Influence of horizontal forces on implants with different multi-unit abutment angulations: A finite element analysis
Authors: Lin Dong , Wen Zi-Heng , Guo Xiao-Ning , Zhang Yuqing 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Few studies have provided a detailed analysis of stress distribution on the components of multi-unit abutment (MUA). Our objective was to investigate the differences in stress patterns among MUA with different angulations under varies loading conditions.
Methods
Using finite element analysis, we constructed MUA-implant complexes with different abutment angulations (0°, 17°, and 30°). A static force of 200 N was applied along the axis of the prosthesis, accompanied by varying horizontal forces (0 N, 30 N, and 100 N).
Results
When subjected to a 200 N vertical load along the long axis of the prosthesis, implants with a 30° angulated abutment experienced nearly 2.5 times the stress (1185 MPa) compared to straight abutments (437 MPa). The maximum stress of the straight MUA-implant was 8 times higher under a 100 N horizontal force (2389 MPa) compared to that without horizontal force. Most of the stress was located near the first thread of the prosthesis screw, while screws loaded with horizontal force showed a higher stress around the screw head.
Conclusions
Increasing the abutment angulation leads to higher stress on the implant, which may be associated with potential bone loss. Horizontal forces significantly increase the maximum stress on the implant, particularly in the neck region. There is a distinct stress distribution pattern between the prosthesis screw and abutment screw.
Backcalculation of Asphalt Concrete Poisson's Ratio using the Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity Test
Authors: Lu Yujia , Maia Renan Santos , Hajj Ramez 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

For asphalt mixtures, it is widely known that Poisson's Ratio (PR) varies according to several parameters, and is a temperature and loading frequency-dependent property. However, measuring PR at different temperatures and frequencies during mechanical tests is not commonly done. A complex arrangement of fixtures and instruments are typically necessary, and are not compatible with typical cylindrical specimens. This work aimed to combine the simple and practical Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity (UPV) test with the conventional Dynamic Modulus (E*) test used for determining pavement design inputs related to asphalt mixtures. To do this, four typical lower binder asphalt concrete mixes were selected, having different levels of Asphalt Binder Replacement (ABR) given the presence of RAP/RAS, and covering seven different asphalt binders in terms of Performance Grade (PG). Additionally, a baseline mixture with no recycled material was used for comparison. Results show that estimating E* via UPV assuming a typical PR value may be inaccurate. Also, an increase in PR was observed with the increase in temperature, and reduction in ABR, as well as air voids. The findings indicate that PR can be a source of significant variability when it comes to the use of recycled materials, and that UPV is a relatively low-cost, simple, practical, and accurate piece of equipment with potential use as a complementary test to be carried out with E* for more accurate determination of PR, especially when comparing across different mixes.
Wnt7b Modulates Axon Differentiation and Extension via JNK-Mediated Cytoskeleton Dynamics
Authors: Neila Lorena Paola , Luna Sebastian , Vena Rodrigo , Rosso Silvana Beatriz 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Neuronal polarization and axon growth are critical processes for neuronal cell differentiation and maturation. Wingless-type family proteins (Wnts) have been implied as key regulators of neuronal development; however, little is known about the cellular mechanisms by which they regulate axon growth. In this study, we investigated the role of Wnt7b on axon differentiation and elongation in hippocampal neurons and we also tried to describe the underlying mechanism involved in that process. Results indicated that Wnt7b accelerates the polarization of neurons and promotes axon elongation since most undifferentiated neurons polarized in the presence of Wnt7b and later on, elicited longer axons compared to controls. To go further, we found that this process was mediated by JNK pathway since its inhibition by a pharmacological agent or expressing a dominant negative construct blocked the Wnt7b effect on axonal elongation. Moreover, Wnt7b induced a locally activation of JNK at the axonal growth and changes in the cytoskeleton. In this sense, Wnt stimulation promoted microtubule stabilization along the newly-formed axons and protrusion of dynamic microtubules at the growth cones that likely facilitate axon extension. Together, our findings define Wnt7b as a crucial factor in the modulation of axon differentiation and extension by activating JNK pathway.
Seismic Site Classification and Correlation Between SPT N-Value and Shear Wave Velocity in The Niger Delta Region
Authors: Kennedy Charles 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

This study investigates seismic site classification and the empirical correlations between SPT blow counts (N-values) and shear wave velocity (Vs) in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. Accurate site classification is vital for evaluating seismic ground response and liquefaction potential in earthquake-prone areas like the Niger Delta. To overcome the challenges of costly and time-consuming direct geophysical measurements of shear wave velocity, the study utilizes the SPT as an in-situ test to indirectly estimate Vs through empirical correlations. The research involves subsurface exploration at two sites in Agudama Town, Bayelsa State. SPT borings were conducted to depths of 30m, collecting disturbed soil samples at 1.5m intervals and undisturbed samples from deeper cohesive layers. Laboratory testing was performed to classify the soils according to the Unified Soil Classification System and determine key engineering properties. Grain size analyses revealed a transition from sandy soils near the surface to silty clay with increasing depth, attributed to natural sorting processes in deltaic sediments. Consistency limits indicated low to intermediate plasticity soils in the upper layers, transitioning to high plasticity at greater depths. Downhole geophysical tests directly measured Vs profiles, which, combined with SPT blow counts, facilitated site classification based on the NEHRP and Eurocode 8 systems. Additionally, one-dimensional equivalent linear site response analysis estimated amplification factors across various strains and periods, predicting peak amplifications of 0.4 to 0.7 seconds that aligned with the subsurface conditions. Empirical correlations were established to relate SPT-N values to Vs, achieving R2 values exceeding 0.90. Predictive models for liquefaction potential factor of safety demonstrated good agreement with observed trends. These findings offer valuable insights into subsurface conditions and establish initial predictive tools for seismic hazard assessment in the soft deltaic soils of the Niger Delta region. Further studies are necessary to expand the database, refine correlations and classifications, and account for geological variability in this seismically active area. These investigations will enhance the understanding of the region's subsurface characteristics and improve the accuracy of seismic hazard assessments.
Factors associated with SIRS negativity at the early stage of sepsis among nonsurviving sepsis patients in ICU: Targeting “silent sepsis”
Authors: Liu Taotao , Luo Jingchao , Wang Xiaogang , Xu Yuan 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Despite the very high sensitivity of the Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS) score for identifying sepsis, there remains a subset of septic patients who exhibit negative SIRS scores, and unfortunately, many of these patients experience poor outcomes. This study aims to investigate the factors associated with SIRS negativity during the early stage of sepsis in deceased septic patients.
Methods
Adult septic patients were included from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC-IV) database between 2008 and 2019. Sepsis was determined based on the Sepsis 3.0 criteria. Patients who did not survive after 28 days were assigned to the SIRS-negative or SIRS-positive group according to whether the SIRS score was less than two points within 24 hours of intensive care unit (ICU) admission. The baseline data of patients in the SIRS-negative and SIRS-positive groups were collected and compared. The factors associated with SIRS negativity in septic patients were analysed by logistic regression. The dose-response relationships of SIRS negativity with SOFA score and age were determined with a restricted cubic spline model.
Results
A total of 53,150 patients were screened in the MIMIC-IV database, and 2706 sepsis nonsurvivors were ultimately included, 101 of whom were negative for SIRS. There were significant differences in SOFA scores between groups (8.18 ± 3.58 vs. 9.75 ± 4.28, P < 0.001). In addition, differences in several other parameters nearly reached statistical significance, including age (76 [61 to 86] vs. 72 [60 to 82], P = 0.053), body mass index (BMI) (26 [22 to 31] vs. 27 [24 to 32], P = 0.056), and the Charlson comorbidity index (8 [6 to 9] vs. 7 [5 to 9], P = 0.052). Logistic regression analysis indicated that both SOFA score (OR = 0.93 [95% CI = 0.87-1.00], P = 0.046) and age (OR = 1.04 [95% CI = 0.88–1.15], P = 0.012) were independent factors related to SIRS negativity in septic patients. Analysis with a restricted cubic spline model showed that the odds ratio (OR) of SIRS negativity continued to increase with age, particularly for those over 80 years old (p for nonlinearity = 0.024). The odds ratio of SIRS negativity was more than 1 when the SOFA score was less than 4 (p for nonlinearity = 0.261).
Conclusions
For sepsis patients with poor prognoses, elderly individuals (over 80 years) are more likely to be SIRS negative when they have mild organ dysfunction damage (less than 4 SOFA scores) in the early stage of sepsis. This warranted an opportunity to provide early diagnosis for elderly population with negative SIRS score, in order to prevent poor outcomes.