bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Badminton player ranking model based on dynamic ELO model
Authors: Yang Rong , Kai Yue 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

In this paper, the ELO scoring method is applied to rank the badminton players. By analyzing the ranking results, we find that the basic ELO model can only see the rank of the players at the top level, while other players are unable due to the reason that they have the same ELO score. Because the basic ELO model only considers the result of the competition, without taking into account the past performance of players, physical condition , and other factors, it cannot fully reflect the true level. Therefore, improving the basic model is necessary. Firstly, the initial score is rese-lected based on the past performance of players. Then, different weights are assigned to each stage of the competition, and a streak mechanism is introduced to establish a more comprehensive dynamic system. In particular , for players who are unable to participate in the competition due to unexpected factors, we also establish different scoring methods. Finally , a new badminton player ranking is obtained based on the improved model. In the final, the classical Goodman−Kruskal correlation coefficient in statistics is selected for numerical analysis, and the comparison results are highly consistent. In particular, we can measure the winning rate of different players through the model, which can also help us better predict the performance of players in the game.
Investigating Surface Urban Heat Island (SUHI) Effect for a Hill City
Authors: Das Bijay Kumar , Kush Avi , Pathak Anjali 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Urban Heat Island (UHI) along with Climate Change has created a new challenge for Urban Planners in terms of environmental sustainability. In composite climate its effect will be, ‘decrease in outdoor activity’ by urban dwellers and ‘surge in energy demand’ for thermal comfort. Urban Heat Island effect is a phenomenon when the ambient temperature of the urban areas is higher than their counterpart peri urban and rural areas. Ranchi, the capital city of Jharkhand once boasts to be the summer capital of Bihar is feeling the reels of hotness as reported by the older generation of the city. This research paper examines the Urban Heat Island effect in the district of Ranchi, Jharkhand, India using the accepted methodology of Land Surface Temperature (LST) using satellite images and application of Geographical Information System (GIS). Through findings it has been observed that the city of Ranchi is under the influence of Urban Heat Island. It has also been observed that the greener areas of Ranchi and presence of water bodies negates the effect of Urban Heat Island in some wards of Ranchi Municipal Corporation. Almost same Land Surface Temperature of Ranchi urban areas hovers to more of its Western and Southern part of the district. Through findings it has been observed that the urban areas of Ranchi (Ranchi Municipal Corporation) experience an average Urban Heat Island Intensity (UHHI) of around 1.6 degree Celsius as compared to its rural counterpart at around 10:12 AM for the year 2023. Earlier studies shows that, the core area of Ranchi used to be cooler in summer months and warmer in cooler months to its peri-urban counterparts. But recent studies show a different picture. Blue-green infrastructure of Ranchi, and rocky terrain in peri urban areas, which used to make the city core a cool-spot is showing negative results for the year 2023 and early 2024.
Silicon Dioxide Incorporated Cellulose Acetate Mixed Matrix Membranes for Safranin-O Removal from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Dhongade Suvarna P. , Malkapuram Surya Teja , Sonawane Shirish H. , Seepana Murali Mohan 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Nanoparticle-incroporated mixed matrix membranes are renowned for their multifaceted advantages, including improved hydrophilicity, elevated solute rejection, enhanced mechanical robustness, and augmented chemical and thermal stability. The inherent hydrophilicity of silicon dioxide (SiO2) nanoparticles, due to silanol groups (Si-OH), along with their high porosity and surface area, renders them an ideal reinforcing filler within polymer matrices, significantly strengthening structural integrity of membranes. In this work, SiO2 nanoparticles were incorporated in a cellulose acetate (CA) matrix to prepare CA/SiO2 adsorptive membranes using phase inversion method. The performance of the membranes was assessed on the removal of Safranin-O (Sf-O) from aqueous solution. The physicochemical characterization of the synthesized membranes was assessed using contact angle, XRD, FE-SEM, EDS, FTIR, TGA, and tensile strength studies. The optimization studies on novel CA/SiO2 membrane revealed that the membrane with 2.5 wt.% of SiO2 in the CA matrix was the best in terms of Sf-O removal (approximately 100% dye removal) when the operating pH, initial dye concentration, and operating pressure were 9, 50 ppm, and 1 bar respectively. It is also found that 2.5 wt.% CA/SiO2 membrane has higher water permeability than other membranes. Incorporating SiO2 nanoparticles into a polymer matrix augments the structural, mechanical, and thermal properties of the resulting membranes while also enhancing water permeability, selectivity, and dye removal efficacy.
Amniotic fluid-derived stem cells: potential factories of natural and mimetic strategies for congenital malformations
Authors: Fon Cristiane S.R. , Steele John W. , Idowu Daniel Ifeoluwa , Burgelin Beck , Finnell Richard H. , Corradetti Bruna 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from gestational tissues represent promising strategies for in utero treatment of congenital malformations, but plasticity and required high-risk surgical procedures limit their use. Here we propose natural exosomes (EXOs) isolated from amniotic fluid-MSCs (AF-MSCs), and their mimetic counterparts (MIMs), as valid, stable, and minimally invasive therapeutic alternatives.
Methods
MIMs were generated from AF-MSCs by combining sequential filtration steps through filter membranes with different porosity and size exclusion chromatography columns. Physiochemical and molecular characterization was performed to compare them to EXOs released from the same number of cells. The possibility to exploit both formulations as mRNA-therapeutics was explored by evaluating cell uptake (using two different cell types, fibroblasts, and macrophages) and mRNA functionality overtime in an in vitro experimental setting as well as in an ex vivo, whole embryo culture using pregnant C57BL6 dams.
Results
Molecular and physiochemical characterization showed no differences between EXOs and MIMs, with MIMs determining a 3-fold greater yield. MIMs delivered a more intense and prolonged expression of mRNA encoding for green fluorescent protein (GFP) in macrophages and fibroblasts. An ex-vivo whole embryo culture demonstrated that MIMs mainly accumulate at the level of the yolk sac, while EXOs reach the embryo.
Conclusions
The present data confirms the potential application of EXOs for the prenatal repair of neural tube defects and proposes MIMs as prospective vehicles to prevent congenital malformations caused by in utero exposure to drugs.
The association between ADAMTS14/rs4747096 gene polymorphism and some risk factors and knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Elshaarawy Ghada A. , Salama Iman I , Salama Somaia I , Abdelrahman Amany H , Hassan Mirhane , Eissa Eman , Ismail Sherif , Eldeeb Sherif E. , Ahmed Doaa E. , Elhariri Hazem , Elgohary Rasmia , Abdelmohsen Aida M , Fouad Walaa A , Raslan Hala M 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Aim
To examine the connection between SNPs of ADAMTS14 gene rs4747096 and KOA and to assess risk factors associated with KOA.
Methods
A case control study was conducted on 158 patients with KOA and 120 controls with comparable age and sex randomly recruited from National Research Centre employees. All participants were subjected to full history taking, assessment of KOA severity using WOMAC scoring system, and thorough clinical examination. Blood sample was collected for detection of ADAMTS14/rs4747096 gene polymorphism.
Results
The frequency of ADAMTS14 gene rs4747096 genotypes among patients with KOA was for AA 73.5%, AG 25.7% and GG 0.7% compared to controls 963%, 31.3% and 5.6% respectively and the frequency of alleles among patients was for A 86.4% and G 78.7% compared to controls (78.7% and 21.3% respectively, P < 0.05. The study found that the median levels of total WOMAC score and its domains were significantly higher among KOA patients than controls. The logistic regression analysis revealed that older age, BMI ≥ 35, long standing at work, and severe physical exercise were predictive factors for KOA (P < 0.01).
Conclusion
For ADAMTS14 rs4747096 genotype, the AA and AG genotypes significantly increased the risk of KOA. Older age, females, morbid obesity, prolonged standing at work, and severe physical exercise were risk factors for KOA. Further studies are encouraged to investigate the mechanism by which this genotype can affect the development of KOA.
Mortality of cancer patients with septic shock: a nation-based cohort analysis in 77,888 patients
Authors: Bianchi Antoine , Brousse Yann , Lakbar Ines , Pauly Vanessa , Orleans Veronica , Fond Guillaume , Duclos Gary , Zieleskiewicz Laurent , Mokart Djamel , Boyer Laurent , Leone Marc 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Purpose: Septic shock and cancer occur routinely in intensive care unit patients. Our aim was to determine the 90-day mortality rate of patients with septic shock and solid cancer or hematological cancer.
Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study using data from the French national hospitalization database, including adult patients with septic shock from 2017 to 2018. Primary outcomes were the hospital mortality rate at 90 days in patients with solid cancer and hematological cancer. Secondary outcomes were the risk factors associated with mortality in our global cohort.
Results: Septic shock was found in 77,888 patients, including 19,329 patients with solid cancer, 6,498 with hematological cancer and 52,061 noncancer patients. Patients with solid cancer (adjusted hazard ratio 1.55 [1.51-1.59]) and hematological cancer (1.59 [1.53-1.65]) had increased risk of 90-day mortality, as compared with noncancer patients. Risk factors for 90-days hospital mortality included hematological cancer and solid cancer.
Conclusion: Our study showed that solid cancer and hematological cancer differed in terms of 90-days mortality in septic shock patients. Future investigations are required to assess the interplay between cancer and septic shock.
Synthesis, Reaction Kinetics and Properties of Aromatic Hyperbranched Polyesters of different Generations (G1 to G4) prepared via One-shot Solution Polycondensation
Authors: Gunasekhar Ramadasu , Indumathy Balaraman , Gajula Prasad , Bae Jin Woo , Prabu Arun Anand 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

In this study, a series of aromatic hyperbranched polyester (Ar.HBPs) of different generations (G1-G4) were synthesized using one-shot solution poly condensation, and their structural, physical, thermal and optical properties were studied in detail. The formation of aromatic ester bond in the product was confirmed using spectral analyses (FTIR and NMR). Ar.HBP reaction kinetics was studied from the changes in acid-to-ester band using FTIR and the optimal reaction time is around 21 hr (G1), 26 hr (G2), 29 hr (G3) and 31 hr (G4). DSC thermal data revealed their glass transition temperature at around 120 oC. From TGA data, thermal degradation (T10, oC) of Ar.HBPs started at around 216 oC (G1), 230 oC (G2), 241 oC (G3) and 243 oC (G4). MALDI-TOF investigation confirmed the chemical structure and molecular weight of the synthesized Ar.HBPs. Their optical property was revealed in the UV region by the existence of a broad absorption peak at 580 nm. From the aforementioned characterization studies, the synthesized Ar.HBPs supported the formation of a highly branched structure and an improvement in thermal stability with increasing HBP generations from G1 to G4. Ar.HBP (G1-G4) synthesis reported in this work will serve as a guideline for understanding their reaction kinetics, and the influence of their final properties on applications such as energy materials, optoelectronic materials and devices.
Room Temperature Giant Magnetoelectric Coupling for Magnetic Energy Harvesting in Single Phase {CoIII3DyIII} Molecular Nanogenerator
Authors: Shanmugam Maheswaran , Chauhan Deepanshu , Saini Dalip , Haldar Rajashi , Borah Dipanti , Mandal Dipankar , Gopalan Rajaraman 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Revealing single-phase multiferroic (MF) materials in conventional bulk oxides is an exceptionally daunting task. However, achieving strong magnetoelectric (ME) coupling at room temperature (RT) in these materials is even more formidable despite their envisioned applications in multi-state memory storage devices, spintronics, magnetic field sensors, etc. The weak ME coupling in single-phase MF materials is primarily due to the ferro/antiferromagnetic ordering observed at very low temperatures, contrasting with ferroelectric ordering typically discerned at RT. These challenges can be effectively addressed by leveraging discrete molecular-based MF materials. Nonetheless, molecular-based ferroelectric materials remain in their infancy due to challenges in achieving polar point groups in these complexes. By overcoming these hurdles through meticulous molecular engineering, we have unveiled a discrete molecular complex, [CoIII3DyIII(L)6].4MeOH (Co3Dy), which exhibits an unprecedentedly strong ME coupling constant (α) value of 250 mVcm⁻¹Oe⁻¹ at RT. This robust ME coupling at or above RT presumably originates from the coupling between magnetostriction and ferroelectric phenomena observed in the paramagnetic Co3Dy complex. To demonstrate the ME coupling and harness the large α value, we have developed an ME nanogenerator device using Co3Dy to convert weak stray magnetic fields into electrical energy. This device produces an output voltage of ~ 430 mV and an output current of 0.3 µA under a small AC magnetic field amplitude of 24.2 Oe.
Molecular and clinical characterization of two independent Chinese families with protein C deficiency
Authors: Wen Mengzhen , Lu Yifan , Xie Haixiao , Qin Langyi , Ye Longying , Zhang Ke , Wang Mingshan , Yang Lihong 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

This study aims to preliminarily investigate the clinical characterization and molecular pathogenic basis of hereditary protein C (PC) deficiency in two independent Chinese families. The PC activity (PC:A) was tested using the chromogenic substrate, and PC antigen (PC:Ag) was detected via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). To identify the mutation sites, nine exons of the PROCgene were amplified by PCR, and the products were directly sequenced. The conservation and pathogenicity of the mutations, as well as changes in the spatial structure of PC proteins before and after mutations, were analyzed using ClustalX-2.1-win, online bioinformatics software, and PyMOL., The function of the mutant proteins was detected using the calibrated automated thrombogram (CAT). Proband A and B, aged 39 and 63 respectively, are both diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in both lower limbs and pulmonary embolism (PE). Two missense mutations, p.Arg440Cys and p.Trp444Arg, were identified in the probands. Bioinformatics and protein modeling analyses revealed that the two mutations probably affected the normal function of PC. The thrombin generation assay revealed impaired thrombin generation capacity in both probands, with proband B showing more severe impairment. These two mutations may be the causes of reduced PC in two independent Chinese families. Notably, this is the first reported instance of the p.Trp444Arg mutation.
Preparation and clay tolerance research of a polycarboxylate superplasticizer modified by phosphonate group
Authors: Zhang Ming , Guo Chunfang , Zhang Qian , PEI Meishan 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

At present, it is a difficult engineering problem to control the workability of concrete with high clay content sand. A phosphonate group-modified polycarboxylate superplasticizer (PHS-PCE) was synthesized by using 2-(methacryloyloxy) ethyl phosphate (MOEP), isobutyl alcohol polyoxyethylene ether (IPEG) and acrylic acid (AA). Characterization of the molecular structure of PHS-PCE was conducted using Gel permeation chromatography (GPC), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (31P NMR) spectroscopy and elemental analysis measurements, showing successful incorporation of the phosphonate group with high polymer purity. However, owing to the low reactivity of MOEP, approximately 65 wt% monomer was introduced into the copolymer. PHS-PCE exhibited better flowability and stronger retardation effect than the conventional polycarboxylate superplasticizer (C-PCE), attributing to the increased negative charge density and complexing capacity with calcium ion caused by the phosphonate group. Under conditions of clay presence, the maximum variation of PHS-PCE adsorption on cement particle was 18 %, whereas that of C-PCE was 25 %. The phosphonate group in molecule promotes part of PHS-PCE to adsorb on the edges of clay, preventing intercalation and improving the clay tolerance.
Effect of Heart murmurs on Heart Rate Study
Authors: DEBBAL Sidi mohamed el amine 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to present a straightforward framework for Heart Rate (HR) estimation from a Phonocardiogram (PCG) records and study the impact of murmur severity on HR. The system focuses primarily on data processing procedure, which is based on signal preprocessing using Maximal Overlap Discrete Wavelet Transform (MODWT) to delineate murmurs from heart sounds. We exploit the characteristics of Logistic function to derive an enhanced PCG envelop that serves as prerequisite for HR algorithm detection. In fact, the PCG envelop present a cyclostationarity that can be easily detected throughout a cross-covariance autocorrelation function to calculate the Heart Rate (HR). In addition, the effect of minor and pronounced murmurs is gauged by the Energetic Ratio (ER) that provide a comprehensive idea about the superimposed murmur energy on first and second Heart sounds. The study was conducted on PASCAL datasets with 335 real clinical records. Results shows that subjects with Heart murmurs present an averaged Heart Rate (HR ≈ 77 bpm) is within the normal range in mild and medium murmurs. These findings suggests that the change in heart rate is not associated with the severity of murmur that occurs in structural heart valve disorder. A result that could be valuable to medical professionals operating in the emergency departments.
A Systematic Review of Cost-Effectiveness of Treating Out of Hospital Cardiac Arrest: Implications for Resource-limited Health Systems
Authors: Werner Kalin , Hirner Sarah , Offorjebe O.Agatha , Hosten Edouard , Gordon Julian , Geduld Heike , Wallis Lee A. , Risko Nicholas 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is a prevalent condition with high mortality and poor outcomes even in settings where extensive emergency care resources are available. Interventions to address OHCA have had limited success, with survival rates below 10% in national samples of high-income countries. In resource-limited settings, where scarcity requires careful priority setting, more data is needed to determine the optimal allocation of resources.
Objective
To establish the cost-effectiveness of OHCA care and assess the affordability of interventions across income settings.
Methods
The authors conducted a systematic review of economic evaluations on interventions to address OHCA. Included studies were (1) economic evaluations (beyond a simple costing exercise); and (2) assessed an intervention in the chain of survival for OHCA. Article quality was assessed using the CHEERs checklist and data summarised. Findings were reported by major themes identified by the reviewers. Based upon the results of the cost-effectiveness analyses we then conduct an analysis for the progressive realization of the OHCA chain of survival from the perspective of decision-makers facing resource constraints.
Results
468 unique articles were screened, and 46 articles were included for final data abstraction. Studies predominantly used a healthcare sector perspective, modeled for all patients experiencing non-traumatic cardiac OHCA, were based in the US, and presented results in US Dollars. No studies reported results or used model inputs from low-income settings. Progressive realization of the chain of survival could likely begin with investments in TOR protocols, professional prehospital defibrillator use, and CPR training followed by distribution of AEDs in high-density public locations. Finally, other interventions such as indiscriminate defibrillator placement or adrenaline use, would be the lowest priority for early investment.
Conclusion
Our review found no high-quality evidence on the cost-effectiveness of treating OHCA in low-resource settings. Existing evidence can be utilized to develop a roadmap for the development of a cost-effective approach to OHCA care, however further economic evaluations using context-specific data are crucial to accurately inform prioritization of scarce resources within emergency care in these settings.
Clinical efficacy of a rehabilitation management protocol for urinary incontinence after robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy
Authors: Gu Jie , Chen Huiying , Gao Chengfei , Ren Ping , Lu Xiaoying , Cao Jie 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Objective:To evaluate the application of a rehabilitation management protocol for urinary incontinence after robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP).
Methods:We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 114 patients who underwent RALP between August 2021 and November 2021 as the control group and a prospective analysis of 114 patients who underwent RALP between May 2022 and August 2022 as the experimental group.The rehabilitation management protocol focused on preoperative stage,postoperative care,day of catheter removal,1 month postoperative,3 months postoperative,6 months postoperative and 12 months or more postoperative.
Results The 24h pad test was significantly lower in the experimental group compared with the control group at 2 and 6 months after RALP (both P<0.01). The scores of the international consultation on incontinence questionnaire-short form(ICIQ-SF) in the experimental group was significantly lower than the control group at 1 month after RALP (P<0.01).The scores of quality of life in the experimental group were significantly higher than the control group at 1, 2, and 6 months after RALP (all P<0.01).The scores of Broome Pelvic Muscle Self-efficacy Scale(BPMSES) was lower than the control group at 1,2,3 and 6 months after RALP(all P<0.01).
Conclusion The application of the rehabilitation management protocol had significant beneficial effects on urinary functions and quality of life in patients with prostate cancer after RALP.