bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Left–right differences in oral function and QOL of patients who underwent tongue resection
Authors: Harada Yuka , Ihara Yoshiaki , Tamai Tomoki , Tashimo Yuichi , Nozue Shinji , Shimane Toshikazu 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

In this study, we investigated the effect of left–right differences on oral function and QOL in patients with TC underwent tongue resection. Forty patients with TC underwent resection smaller than hemiglossectomy were divided into left (LG) and right (RG) tongue groups. The evaluation items were evaluated at baseline and 1, 3, and 6 months posttreatment. Maximum tongue pressure and lip-closure force were measured for oral function evaluation. Peak expiratory flow was used to evaluate the respiratory function. The Functional Oral Intake Scale was used to evaluate the feeding functions. The QOL was assessed using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer QOL Questionnaires: QLQ-C30, QLQ-H&N35. No significant differences in oral, respiratory, or feeding function between LG and RG were observed at all evaluation periods. However at 3 months, LG had a significantly higher QOL score than RG for swallowing and trouble with social eating. At 6 months, the LG had a significantly higher QOL than RG for global health status and physical function. The left–right differences in tongue function did not lead to functional impairment but significantly affected the QOL. This indicates the importance of considering these differences in postoperative care to address QOL concerns effectively.
Analysis of Risk Factors for Persistent PSA After Radical Prostatectomy: Results from a High- Volume Center in Southeast China
Authors: Wang Hao , Hao Sida , Lin Shen , Chen Hong , Xie Liping , Zheng Xiangyi 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background: For localized prostate cancer, a comprehensive treatment approach centered around radical prostatectomy (RP) is often their optimal choice. Successful RP can typically reduce prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels to below 0.1 ng/mL within 6 to 8 weeks postoperatively. However, in clinical practice, 5 to 24% of patients may have a PSA ≥ 0.1 ng/mL at 6 to 8 weeks after surgery, a phenomenon known as PSA persistence. Many studies based on data from Europe and United States have shown an association between PSA persistence and poor postoperative outcomes, further analyzing the risk factors for PSA persistence. However, relevant research based on data from China remains scarce.
Methods: Retrospective study of 1,347 prostate cancer patients who underwent RP at the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine from July 15, 2016, to August 31, 2022. After excluding 521 patients based on exclusion criteria, univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to explore the independent risk factors for persistent PSA.
Results: Among the 826 prostate cancer patients after RP, 124 patients experienced persistent PSA. In univariate logistic regression analysis, robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RARP), preoperative PSA, high-risk group, preoperative International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) grades 2-5, postoperative ISUP grades 3-5, percentage of positive cores, cT3, ≥pT3b, extracapsular extension (EPE), seminal vesicle invasion (SVI), positive surgical margins (PSM) and Prostate Specific Antigen Density (PSAD) were all significantly associated with PSA persistence after RP (P < 0.05). In terms of surgical approach, RARP was considered a protective factor against postoperative PSA persistence (OR:0.53, p<0.05). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, preoperative ISUP grade 4, percentage of positive cores and PSM were independent risk factors of PSA persistence after RP (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: Preoperative PSA, high-risk group, preoperative ISUP grades 2-5, postoperative ISUP grades 3-5, percentage of positive cores, cT3, ≥pT3b, EPE, SVI, PSM and PSAD were independent risk factors for PSA persistence in prostate cancer patients after RP. This provides assistance for early monitoring and treatment of patients at high risk of persistent PSA in clinical practice.
Design of the efficient, tunable T-shaped Metal-Free Organic Dyes for TiO 2 Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells—A TD-DFT study analysis
Authors: Tanoli Sheraz A. K. , Urooj Nazish 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Dye sensitized-solar cells (DSSCs) have drawn much attention as being a low cost, in simple fabrication and as a high power conversion alternative to photovoltaic cells. In this study, small meta-free sensitizers comprising of Triphenylamine (TPA) as a donor moiety, double bond as a л-linker and cyanoacrylic acid as an acceptor (anchoring group) having different substitutions at donner sides were designed and analysis by Time-dependent Density Functional theory (TD-DFT). The substitution effects at different positions (R1, R2, R3 and R4) with different a variety of electron-withdrawing and electron-donating groups at donor moiety has been demonstrated to investigate the optoelectronic properties, absorption energy. For the proposed structures, molecular orbitals, HOMO, LUMO energy levels, and absorption spectra were calculated on DFT and TD-DFT level of theory by employing CAM-B3LYP methods and LANL2DZ /6-31G basis set using Gaussian 9.0 software. Eight dye-sensitizers (D1-D8) posing different substitutions (-CH3, -F, -NH2, -C (CH3)3, -NO2, -C6H5) on donor sides are capable of lowering the Egap (HOMO-LUMO), however, a few sensitizers show much lower Egap than to the conduction band edge value (4.0 eV). Nevertheless, the calculated properties inferred that three (D1, D4, and D6) studied sensitizers are supposed to be the good candidates for use and observe experimentally and eventually provide a guideline to design new sensitizers for dye-sensitized solar cells.
Numerical simulation of the formation of the Zaozigou gold deposit i n the West Qinling Mountains: distribution of hidden mineralization and its controlling factors
Authors: Wang Yuang , Li Baozhu 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The Zaozigou gold deposit, situated in Gansu Province within the West Qinling orogenic belt, is classified as a super-large gold deposit. In the exploration of mineralization processes, numerous factors pose challenges for traditional identification methods. This study employs numerical simulation techniques to investigate factors that are challenging to discern through conventional methodologies in the formation of the Zaozigou gold deposit mineralization system. We aim to utilize multi-field coupling, integrating thermodynamics and fluid mechanics, to replicate the intricate movement of ore-bearing fluids. The research uncovers the mineralization patterns of the Zaozigou gold deposit. By constructing a two-dimensional model and examining the interplay of time, space, materials, and evolution, we pinpoint areas of abnormal temperature and normal pressure within the fluid, where the spatial distribution of S2− correlates with known mineralization patterns. Numerical simulations demonstrate that the migration of ore-bearing fluids, influenced by thermal flow fields and pressure dynamics, can lead to mineral concentration in regions exhibiting pronounced barotropic stress anomalies. These zones boast favorable mineralization conditions, elucidating disparities in mineralization between the northeastern and southwestern flanks of the fault-fold structure within the mining field. The outcomes of this investigation introduce a novel approach for advancing hidden ore prospecting efforts in the Zaozigou region.
The probability density function of the surface electromyogram and its dependence on contraction force in the vastus lateralis
Authors: Rodriguez-Falces Javier , Malanda Armando , Mariscal Cristina , Recalde Silvia , Navallas Javier 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Introduction: The probability density function (PDF) of the surface electromyogram (sEMG) depends on contraction force. This dependence, however, has so far been investigated by having the subject generate force at a few fixed percentages of MVC. Here, we examined how the shape of the sEMG PDF changes with contraction force when this force was gradually increased from zero. Methods: Voluntary surface EMG signals were recorded from the vastus lateralis of healthy subjects as force was increased in a continuous manner vs. in a step-wise fashion. The sEMG filling process was examined by measuring the EMG filling factor, computed from the non-central moments of the rectified sEMG signal. Results: (1) For many subjects, as contraction force increased from 0 to 10% MVC, the sEMG PDF shape oscillated back and forth between the semi-degenerate and the Gaussian distribution. (2) The PDF-force relation varied greatly among subjects for forces between 0 and ~ 10% MVC, but this variability was largely reduced for forces above 10% MVC. (3) The pooled analysis showed that, as contraction force gradually increased, the sEMG PDF evolved rapidly from the semi-degenerate towards the Laplacian distribution from 0 to 5% MVC, and then more slowly from the Laplacian towards the Gaussian distribution for higher forces. Conclusions: The study demonstrated that the dependence of the sEMG PDF shape on contraction force can only be reliably assessed by gradually increasing force from zero, and not by performing a few constant-force contractions. The study also showed that the PDF-force relation differed greatly among individuals for contraction forces below 10% MVC, but this variability was largely reduced when force increased above 10% MVC.
Fear of Contagion and Consumption Expectations: Evidence Using Government Communications of Case Fatality Rates during the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Rose Giuseppe , Ordine Patrizia , De Luca Desirè 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Using Italian microdata from the Bank of Italy’s Special Survey, we study the causal effects of fear of Covid-19 on consumption expectations during the Covid-19 pandemic. Identification is achieved by exploiting the fact that information disseminated by official press releases about mortality in cases of contagion differentiated between groups of different ages. Since the 50-59 and 60-69 (years of age) groups manifested a marked jump in the mortality rate (2 deaths per hundred cases and 1 death per ten cases respectively), we firstly evaluate whether the fear of contagion and consumption expectations are discontinuous at the threshold and then we apply a fuzzy regression discontinuity design to evaluate the causal effect of fear of contagion on consumption expectations. Results demonstrate that the impact of the pandemic on consumption expectations operates markedly through households’ fear of contagion.
JEL Codes: D91, D84, D10.
Dissolved Ba as discriminator between two adjacent karst catchments that are both subject to allogenic recharge (Sohodol valley, Vâlcan Mountains, Romania)
Authors: Cruceru Nicolae , Mitrofan Horia , Marin Constantin , Vlaicu Marius , Naidin Cornel , Constantinescu Gabriel , Tudorache Alin , Niculae Lucica 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

In a fluviokarst region, three seldom used natural tracers, SiO2, Na and Ba, were considered for tracking the allogenic, silicate-derived water contribution to cave streams and to final karst outflows. The concerned allogenic recharge originates in watersheds that consist of metamorphic formations intruded by magmatic rocks, for which available whole rock chemistry data indicate rather uniform contents of SiO2 and Na, but contrasting (up to one order of magnitude) contents of Ba. All three considered natural tracers proved to behave, along karst flowpaths, conservatively, and indicated binary mixing between allogenic and autogenic inputs. However, only the dissolved Ba concentrations enabled chemical distinction to be made between two separate, adjacent karst catchments: one having allogenic inputs presumably derived mainly from the weathering of Ba-rich rocks (essentially granites), while the other had allogenic recharge originating mostly in the weathering of Ba-poor formations. In contrast, if only the sampled waters SiO2 and Na concentrations had been considered, it would have been virtually impossible to establish if the two adjacent karst catchments were distinct - or not - from each other. When considering each of the two karst catchments separately, the concentrations distribution of each of the three natural tracers, SiO2, Na and Ba, consistently indicated that between a swallet and a connected cave stream, then further between cave streams and final karst outflows, the allogenic water relative contribution gradually diminished to the benefit of autogenic water.
Analysis of picking characteristics of blueberry by air blowing
Authors: Bao Yudong , Zhang Jingyang , Zhao Yafei 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Aiming at the possible damage to blueberry trees and fruits caused by existing contact vibration picking devices, this study focused on the principle of air blowing picking technology and the flow rate and distance of the air. By applying the theory of fluid mechanics, the attenuation characteristics of free jet in blueberry tree canopy were analyzed, and the related factors affecting the length of jet core region and the attenuation of air velocity in canopy were revealed. A numerical simulation method was used to establish the relationship between the length of the jet core region and the diameter of the outlet, and experimental evidence was verified by the free jet velocity attenuation, the velocity change of the blueberry tree canopy and the gas blowing picking test platform to ensure the accuracy of the numerical simulation results. In this study, fluid-structure coupling numerical simulation under the action of air flow was carried out, and the motion characteristics of the hanging branches and main branches of blueberry under the action of air flow were obtained, and the effective range of air flow parameters for realizing the non-contact shedding of blueberry fruit was preliminarily determined. Finally, this paper successfully completed the picking characteristics and numerical simulation of the air blowing blueberry picking process, and determined that the optimal picking of blueberries can be effectively achieved when the flow rate is 60m/s and the operating distance is between 100mm and 400mm. These research results provide important theoretical guidance and experimental parameters for the design of air-blown blueberry pickers in the future.
Comparison of Thermal Insulation Performance of Foam Extruded Black EPS
Authors: Erünal Ebru 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The foam extrusion process to obtain lower thermal valued expanded polystyrene insulation board materials was investigated. Samples with either carbon black or graphite powder were prepared with different starting polystyrene raw materials. The raw materials were selected as commercial general purposed polystyrene and commercial expandable polystyrene, respectively. The density of the prepared materials increased with the addition of carbon black to all samples. The compatibility of graphite powder with general purpose polystyrene during foam extrusion process was observed to be better than expandable polystyrene in terms of glass transition temperatures and thermal insulation values. The best glass transition temperature was measured as 107.5 ºC while the best thermal conductivity value was recorded as 0.2997 W/m.K.
Efficient Identification of Multi-Link Inverted Pendulums via Global Optimization
Authors: Ozana Stepan , Slanina Zdenek , Deb Dipankar , Dalwadi Nihal , Martinek Radek 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Multi-link inverted pendulum systems pose intricate challenges in control theory and robotics, requiring precise dynamic parameter identification to achieve stability and robustness in control strategy design. We present a novel and efficient experimental identification procedure formulated as an optimization problem based on simple short-term datasets and metaheuristic global optimizers. We use a training dataset for identification and validation dataset to evaluate and analyze the obtained results. The study incorporates three distinct global optimization techniques, namely Stochastic Fractal Search (SFS), Growth Optimizer, and Differential Evolution (DEoptim), selected as candidates to handle the identification of multi-link pendulums and similar extremely demanding optimization jobs to be used when controlling modern mechatronic systems. We illustrate that DEoptim dominates over other global optimizers in several aspects. The proposed identification procedure is innovative, adaptable, and simple, relying solely on selected measurable signals sans further signal processing. Its versatility makes it a valuable tool for parameter identification in diverse domains. The results are supported by experiments with the laboratory triple pendulum setup and simulation experiments on a virtual quadruple inverted pendulum.
GANLI: Elevating Natural Language Inference through Advanced Gated Attention Mechanisms
Authors: He Fengchen , Lu Jianfeng 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

In the fields of Knowledge Representation and Knowledge Discovery, enhancing the accuracy of Natural Language Inference (NLI) is crucial for developing systems capable of advanced knowledge extraction and processing. This paper introduces the Gated Attention Natural Language Inference (GANLI) model, designed with an innovative gated attention mechanism to significantly improve performance in these critical areas. Our evaluations show that GANLI achieves a 2.1% improvement in accuracy on the Stanford Natural Language Inference (SNLI) benchmark and an 14.8% increase on the Multi-Genre Natural Language Inference (MNLI) benchmark. These advancements demonstrate GANLI’s superior ability to discern and represent complex knowledge structures hidden in natural language. The model not only enhances the precision of knowledge discovery tasks but also facilitates more effective knowledge presentation, crucial for applications such as intelligent data analysis and automated decision-making systems. The success of the GANLI model underscores its potential to transform the field by enabling more nuanced and context-aware interpretations of textual data.
Reconstructing Isometry Groups From Killing Vector Fields
Authors: Rodrigues Thales B. S. F. , Rizzuti B. F. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

This work aims to explore a novel relation between Killing vector fields and Lie algebras using induced vector fields. On one hand, Killing vector fields on a (pseudo) Riemannian manifold are related to directions of local isometries along it. On the other hand, group elements are responsible for global isometries in physical systems, such as the elements of the groups \(SO(3)\) and \(SO(1,3)\) acting in space and space-time. In this sense, the main objective of this manuscript is to reconstruct such groups (together with translations), after establishing the connection between Killing vector fields and elements of the Lie algebra corresponding to such Lie groups, using mainly the definition of induced vector fields.
Protocol to develop and pilot a primary mental healthcare intervention model to address the medium- to long-term Ebola associated psychological Distress and psychosocial problems in Mubende District in central Uganda (the Ebola+D project)
Authors: Kinyanda Eugene , Kyohangirwe Leticia , Mpango Richard S. , Tusiime Christine , Rutakumwa Rwamahe , Ssebunnya Joshua , Obuku Andrew , Kiconco Barbra , Sekitoleko Isaac , Sentongo Hafsa , Kalani Kenneth , Muhwezi Wilson , Greco Giulia , Baltra Ricardo Araya , Knizek Birthe Loa , Kaleebu Pontiano , Mondelli Valeria , Kyegombe Nambusi , Tenywa Patrick , Amanyire Philip , Ssembajjwe Wilber , Lund Prof Crick 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background: Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) presents significant global health challenges, including high mortality and substantial physical morbidity among patients and survivors. Beyond immediate health impacts, EVD survivors, frontline healthcare workers, and community members face profound mental health and psychosocial issues. Over 35 EVD outbreaks have occurred in Africa since 1976, often in the context of fragile health systems and chronic conflict, complicating the response to mental health needs. Uganda has experienced seven outbreaks, the latest from September 20, 2022, to January 11, 2023, affecting nine districts, with Mubende as the epicenter. The Mental Health Focus Area of the Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, in collaboration with Uganda’s Ministry of Health, has initiated the development and piloting of the Ebola+D mental health intervention to address the medium- and long-term mental health consequences of Ebola in the Mubende district. This intervention will be a collaborative stepped care model based on the successful HIV+D intervention in Uganda and the MANAS intervention in India.
Methods: Participatory, theory-informed approaches will be employed in Mubende district to develop the Ebola+D mental health intervention. This will involve four steps: i) adaptation of the HIV+D collaborative stepped care mental health intervention into primary health care in Mubende district to produce the Ebola+D mental health intervention; ii) adaptation and translation of the Problem Solving Therapy for Primary Care (PST-PC) treatment manual to the local rural situation in Mubende district; iii) a pilot study to evaluate the acceptability, feasibility and impact of the Ebola+D mental health intervention on mental health outcomes; and iv) a health economics component to examine the costs of the Ebola + D mental health intervention.
Discussion: The findings from this study will inform future mental health and psychosocial interventions in Ebola-affected communities in Africa.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov. NCT06093646. Registered 22 September 2023, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06093646
An update on polar magnetotaxis: Insights from hanging drop assays and microcosm experiments
Authors: Mao Xuegang , Egli Ramon , Petersen Nikolai , Liu Xiuming 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Magnetotactic bacteria (MTB) combine passive alignment with the Earth magnetic field with a chemotactic response (magneto-chemotaxis) to reach their optimal living depth in chemically stratified environments. Current magneto-aerotaxis models fail to explain the occurrence of MTB far below the oxic-anoxic interface and the coexistence of MTB cells with opposite magnetotactic polarity at depths that are unrelated with the redox gradient. Here we propose a modified model of polar magnetotaxis which explains these observations, as well as the distinct concentration profiles and magnetotactic advantages of two types of MTB inhabiting a freshwater sediment: Magnetobacterium bavaricum (MB) and a group unidentified, wild-type cocci (MC). This model assumed that magnetotactic polarity is set by a threshold mechanism in counter gradients of oxygen and a second group of repellents, with, in case of MB, includes H+ ions. Depending on the position of the two repellent thresholds in a vertical redox gradient, MTB possessing this type of polar magnetotaxis either accumulate around a preferred depth where the opposed stimuli set by the two repellents are equivalent, or shuttle between two limit depths across the redox gradient (redox taxis). We show that MB belongs to the latter category, as previously postulated for MB and other members of the Nitrospirae group. Microcosm experiments suggest that redox taxis might be assisted by a partial control of magnetotactic polarity by cell metabolism, which helps maintaining a consistent polarity bias during shuttling. Our model of polar magnetotaxis supports a large variety of magnetotactic behaviors, depending on the position of the two repellent thresholds in a redox gradient, enabling different types of MTB to occupy different ecological niches in the same environment.