bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
General Quasi-Equilibrium Multivalent Binding Model to Study Diverse and Complex Drug-Receptor Interactions of Biologics
Authors: Ng Chee M , Bauer Robert J 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of many biologics are influenced by their complex binding to biologic receptor. Biologics consist of diverse groups of molecules with different binding kinetics to its biological receptors including IgG with simple one-to-one drug receptor bindings, bispecific antibody (BsAb) that binds to two different receptors, and biologics that can bind to six or more receptors. As binding process is much faster than elimination and distribution processes of biologics and receptors, quasi-equilibrium (QE) binding models are commonly used to describe drug-receptor binding kinetics of biologics. However, no general QE modeling framework is available to describe complex binding kinetics for diverse classes of biologics. In this paper, we described a novel approach of using differential algebraic equations (DAE) to develop first DAE-based QE multivalent drug-receptor binding (QEMB) model platform and successfully used this novel model platform to develop three different QEMB models in describing binding kinetics of three-body equilibria of BsAb, engineered IgG variant (Multabody) that can bind to 24 target receptors, and IgG with modified neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) binding affinity that compete for the same FcRn receptor with the endogenous IgG. The model parameter estimates were obtained by fitting developed model to all observed data simultaneously. The developed models allowed us to study potential roles of cooperative binding on bell-shaped drug exposure-response relationships of BsAb, and concentration-depended distribution of different drug-receptor complexes for Multabody. This developed DAE-based QEMB model platform can serve as an important first step to better understand complex binding kinetics of diverse classes of biologics.
Surgical management of large lower cranial nerves schwannomas: long term results of a less aggressive resection strategy
Authors: TROUDE Lucas , Ogando Yamaurys Esther , Balossier Anne , Baucher Guillaume , Régis Jean , Roche Pierre-Hugues 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background
In an effort to reduce the high morbidity and life-threatening complications after radical resection in large schwannoma surgery, alternative strategies of nontotal resections have emerged.
Objectives
To evaluate the long term clinical and oncological outcome after lower cranial nerves (LCN) schwannoma surgery operated on with a cranial nerve-sparing technique.
Methods
Single center retrospective cohort study of 8 consecutive patients harboring LCN schwannomas operated on between March 2005 and October 2021.
Results
The mean LCN schwannoma diameter was 33mm (range 26–51). Seven patients (87,5%) underwent a modified retrosigmoid approach. Three patients underwent gross total resection (37,5%), 3 had received neartotal resection (mean tumor residue 0,25cc) and subtotal resection in 2 patients who presented with an extracranial extension of the tumor (mean tumor residue 2,44cc). Both patients had received upfront additional GKRS. The three patients who presented with preoperative CN IX & X injuries recovered within 6 months after surgery. All of the five patients freed from any preoperative CNs IX & X symptoms experienced transient (80%) or definitive (one patient) disturbances after surgery. They all improved within 6 months but one who required long term gastrostomy feeding tube. This patient harbored a schwannoma originating from the glossopharyngeal nerve, which could not be anatomically preserved during surgery. Tumor control was achieved in 100% of cases with a mean follow-up of 91 months.
Conclusion
LCN schwannomas could be surgically removed through a less aggressive non-radical resection strategy with acceptable functional results and excellent tumor control.
Performance Evaluation of Modified Rapid Gravity Filter by Using Sand and Crushed Overburnt Brick Separated by Geotextile
Authors: Acharya Yubaraj , Parajuli Arun Prasad 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

The effectiveness of slow sand filters in accomplishing future water demand is becoming less, along with that, improvement in filtration efficiency of rapid gravity filter is under research. This study aimed to access the effectiveness of using novel filter media composed of crushed overburnt brick and sand separated by geotextile in rapid gravity filtration. The experiment was conducted with four rapid gravity filters by maintaining the constant influent and effluent discharge of 2.5 m3/m2/h. The experiment was repeated seven times with varied influent turbidites by resuming the filtration process after backwashing with the backwash velocity of 21 m3/m2/h, when terminal head loss exhausted 155 cm. Turbidity removal efficiency of RGF with novel media was observed to be improved by 2.07% as compared to conventional sand filter. Further, improvement in UFRV was by 49.89%, backwash water consumption was by 58.32%, backwash time was by 3.68%. The filter run length was reached up to about 1.5 times more than that of conventional sand filter. This study suggests that, substituting sand media with innovative media, which has a filter media thickness of 75% compared to sand media, can perform effectively. Additionally, it was observed that novel media with a filter media thickness of 50% as compared to sand media can efficiently operate when influent turbidity is below 100 NTU.
Seismic response analysis of jointed rock slope under pulse-like ground motions
Authors: Jia Xijun , Zhang Yu , Zhang Ziyi 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Because of the directional effect, energy concentration and hanging wall effect of pulse-like ground motions, it is easy to cause rock fall, collapse, and landslide of jointed rock slope. To reveal the deformation law and failure model of jointed rock slope under pulse-like ground motions, a discrete element numerical model of jointed rock slope in the northern Yunnan province was established to study the acceleration, dynamic displacement, and slope failure modes of jointed rock slope under bi-directional pulse-like ground motions. The results show that the period of the pulse signal extracted from the RSN147 seismic wave is 2.03s, and the energy ratio is 70.3%. Under the action of RSN147, the time of peak acceleration and peak displacement of the slope are consistent with the peak pulse velocity, and the predominant frequency is also the same. The low-frequency component of ground motion causes the global displacement of the slope. The peak dynamic displacement of the slope is about 5~6cm, but the maximum residual displacement is only 11.3% of the peak dynamic displacement, so the slope is stable. The strength reduction method was used to analyze the overall stability of the slope. The slope displacement first appears at the slope toe. With the continuous development of deformation, the slope is in a critical state, and the strong weathering rock mass slides along the fractures. The research results can provide support for the construction of jointed rock slopes in strong weathered areas.
An Online Training and Feedback Module Enhances the Musculoskeletal Examination Performance of Medical Interns
Authors: Arteaga Matías , Vidal Catalina , Ruz Cristián , Zilleruelo Raúl , Pino Ernesto , Dauvergne Javier , Besa Pablo , Irarrázaval Sebastián 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background
Pathologies of the locomotor system are frequent and can cause disability and impact the quality of life of the people affected. In recent years, online training and feedback have emerged as learning tools in many fields of medicine.
Objective
This study aims to evaluate medical interns’ musculoskeletal examination performance after completing an online training and feedback module.
Methods
This study employed a quasi-experimental design. Medical interns were invited to complete a 4-week musculoskeletal physical examination training and feedback module via an e-learning platform. Before and after completing the module, their ability to perform the physical examination was evaluated using an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) with simulated patients. A control group of experts was assessed using the OSCE, and their performance was compared to that of the interns before and after the training. At the end of the module, a satisfaction survey was administered.
Results
A total of 35 subjects were assessed using the OSCE, including 29 interns and 6 experts. At the beginning of the training module, the group of interns obtained an average score of 50.6 ± 15.1. At the end of the module, 18 interns retook the OSCE, and their performance increased significantly to an average of 76.6 ± 12.8 (p < 0.001). Prior to the training, the experts performed significantly better than the interns (71.2 vs. 50.6; p = 0.006). After the interns received the training and feedback, there were no significant differences between the two groups (71.2 vs. 76.6; p = 0.43). The satisfaction survey showed that 100% of the study participants would recommend the training module to a colleague or peer.
Conclusion
The online training and feedback module enhances the musculoskeletal examination performance of medical interns.
Recurrent Cutaneous Manifestation in Multiple Myeloma: A Case Report and Management Approach
Authors: Naviwala Mohammad Saad Salim , Hina Mariam , Moosajee Munira , Ali Nasir 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Cutaneous involvement in multiple myeloma (MM) is an uncommonly encountered manifestation, more commonly observed in patients with aggressive subtypes, and often resistant to conventional therapies. Owing to its infrequency, reported clinical characteristics have been diverse and relatively nonspecific. Particularly uncommon is lower extremity involvement, where cutaneous MM is found.
Case presentation
In this report, we present a unique case of a middle age lady with refractory IgG lambda MM, who subsequently developed recurrent cutaneous plasmacytoma in the lower leg, while being on systemic therapy. Initially, the lesion resembled squamous cell carcinoma, posing a diagnostic challenge. Through meticulous histopathological and immunohistochemical studies, cutaneous involvement by multiple myeloma was conclusively confirmed.
Conclusion
This case highlights the importance of maintaining a high clinical suspicion for cutaneous MM in patients with MM who present with new skin lesions, as early diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management.
Phages modulate bacterial communities in the human gut following fecal microbiota transplantation
Authors: Zuppi Michele , Vatanen Tommi , Wilson Brooke C. , Golovina Evgeniia , Cutfield Wayne S. , Vickers Mark H. , O’Sullivan Justin M. 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background: Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is a therapeutic intervention used to treat diseases associated with the gut microbiome. In the human gut microbiome, phages have been implicated in influencing human health, with successful engraftment of donor phages correlated with FMT treatment efficacy. The impact that gastrointestinal phages exert on human health has primarily been connected to their ability to modulate the bacterial communities in the gut. Nonetheless, how FMT affects recipients’ phage populations, and in turn, how this influences the gut environment, is not yet fully understood. In this study, we investigated the effects of FMT on the phageome composition of participants within the Gut Bugs Trial (GBT), a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial that investigated the efficacy of FMT in treating obesity and comorbidities in adolescents. Stool samples collected from donors at the time of treatment and recipients at four time points (i.e., baseline and 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and 26 weeks post intervention), underwent shotgun metagenomic sequencing. Phage sequences were identified and characterized in silico to examine evidence of phage engraftment and to assess the extent of FMT-induced alterations in the recipients’ phageome composition.
Results: Donor phages engrafted stably in recipients following FMT, composing a significant proportion of their phageome for the entire course of the study (33.8 ± 1.2% in females and 33.9 ± 3.7% in males). Phage engraftment varied between donors and donor engraftment efficacy was positively correlated with their phageome alpha diversity. FMT caused a shift in recipients’ phageome toward the donors’ composition and increased phageome alpha diversity and variability over time.
Conclusions: FMT significantly altered recipients' phage and, overall, microbial populations. The increase in microbial diversity and variability is consistent with a shift in microbial population dynamics. This proposes that phages play a critical role in modulating the gut environment and suggests novel approaches to understand the efficacy of FMT in altering the recipient's microbiome.
Trial registration: The Gut Bugs Trial was registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTR N12615001351505).
Trial protocol: The trial protocol is available at https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/9/4/e026174.
Machine Learning-Based Prediction Model for Patients with Recurrent Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia
Authors: Li Yuan , Song Shuang , Zhu Liying , Zhang Xiaorun , Mou Yijiao , Lei Maoxing , WANG Wenjing , Tao Zhen 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Objectives Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia (SAB) remains a significant contributor to both community-acquired and healthcare-associated bloodstream infections. SAB exhibits a high recurrence rate and mortality rate, leading to numerous clinical treatment challenges. Particularly, since the outbreak of COVID-19, there has been a gradual increase in SAB patients, with a growing proportion of (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus)MRSA infections. Therefore, we have constructed and validated a pediction model for recurrent Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia using machine learning. This model aids physicians in promptly assessing the condition and intervening proactively.Methods The patients data is sourced from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC-IV) database version 2.2. The patients were divided into training and testing datasets using a 7:3 random sampling ratio. The process of feature selection employed two methods: Recursive Feature Elimination (RFE) and Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO). Prediction models were built using Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost),Random Forest (RF),Logistic Regression (LR),Support Vector Machine (SVM),and Artificial Neural Network (ANN). Model validation encompassed Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis and Decision Curve Analysis (DCA). We utilized SHAP (SHapley Additive exPlanations) values to demonstrate the significance of each feature.Results After screening, MRSA, PTT, RBC, RDW, Neutrophils_abs, Sodium, Calcium, Vancomycin concentration, MCHC, MCV, and Prognostic Nutritional Index(PNI) were selected as features for constructing the model. Through combined evaluation using ROC and DCA analyses, XGBoost demonstrated the best predictive performance, achieving an AUC value of 0.76 (95% CI: 0.66–0.85). Building a website based on the Xgboost model.The SHAP plot depicted the importance of each feature within the model.Conclusions The adoption of XGBoost for model development holds widespread acceptance in the medical domain. The prediction model for recurrent Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia readmission, developed by our team, aids physicians in timely diagnosis and treatment of patients.
Robust Multi-Party Computation in Critical Infrastructure Protection using Hybrid RSA-AES Algorithm for Enhanced Security
Authors: Iqbal kashif , jatoi Muhammad Uzair , Sulaman Muhammad , Abid Muhammad Shoaib 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) systems, which are reliant on the energy, transportation, and communication sectors, are similarly vulnerable to cyberattacks. In order to increase the security of CIP systems, secure multi-party computing (SMPC) enables many parties to jointly calculate results without disclosing their private data. The requirement for strong encryption techniques makes it difficult to achieve efficient and safe SMPC in CIP systems. For secure SMPC in CIP systems, we provide a hybrid RSA-AES technique in this study. The algorithm strikes a balance between security and efficiency by combining the advantages of RSA and AES encryption techniques. While AES is used for effective data encryption and decryption throughout the calculation process, RSA is used for secure key exchange and authentication. We give a thorough explanation of the proposed algorithm, outlining the procedures involved in key creation, encryption, decryption, and calculation. We also examine the algorithm's resistance to typical assaults and show that it offers SMPC in CIP systems with a high level of security. The effectiveness of the suggested algorithm is also evaluated in terms of calculation time and communication overhead, and it is compared to alternative encryption techniques. Our findings demonstrate that the hybrid RSA-AES algorithm successfully strikes a balance between security and efficiency, making it appropriate for safe SMPC in CIP systems. This algorithm can improve the security of CIP systems and help protect critical infrastructure from online dangers. The algorithm can be improved, and its viability in actual CIP systems can be investigated through additional study and development.
Assessment of wind-energy potential along the Egyptian Mediterranean Coast
Authors: Tonbol Kareem M. , Elbessa Mohamed , Ibrahim Omneya , El-Geziry Tarek M. 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

There is now no wind park operating along the Egyptian Mediterranean Coast, hence the goal of this study is to find some ideal circumstances for such projects. In order to fulfill this aim, wind data from five coastal meteorological stations were used for the evaluation. These are, respectively from west to east, Mersa Matruh (MM), Ras El-Tin (RE), Abu Qir (AQ), Port Said (PS) and Arish (Ar). The wind regime data (speed and direction) at 10-m height extended over 16 years from January 2007 to December 2022, with 0% missing record. The Weibull distribution function with its different parameters was used to characterise the wind energy along the Egyptian Mediterranean coast. Results revealed that the dominant wind direction along the Egyptian Mediterranean coast is the NNW to N wind, except at PS where the dominant wind is S. The wind seeped range 4–6 m/s dominated the entire coast except at Ar, where it is reduced to 2–4 m/s range. The analysis of wind power density revealed significant insights into the potential for wind energy generation in the region. The overall analysis showed that MM, AQ and PS are potentially the most suitable locations for wind energy projects. However, the high variability at AQ site requires robust system designs to manage the fluctuating wind conditions. MM and PS might be more suitable for projects prioritizing stability and consistency over maximum energy output. Arish, having the lowest wind power density might be less suitable for large-scale wind energy projects but could still be considered for smaller installations or in combination with other renewable energy sources.
Robust Watermarking with PSO and DnCNN
Authors: Amiri Ali , Kimiaghalam Bahram 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

The NC value obtained for our scheme is very good against jpeg attacks and the results are much better than the compared articles. Also, the NC value obtained for the salt and pepper attack is better than the compared articles. In this paper, an algorithm for multiple watermarking in gray scale images based on contourlet and SVD transforms is presented. Placing a watermark on the S component of the SVD transform of host image is associated with a false positive problem. Different solutions have been proposed, but these solutions themselves face problems such as determining the amount of scaling factor for different images, the undesirable values ​​obtained for robustness to attacks, and most importantly, the low quality of the watermarked image. In the proposed scheme, to solve these problems in the embedding stage, we multiply the Δ value by the host image and multiply the component S obtained from the SVD transform and the SVD is taken from it again using the analysis of the host image by the contourlet and taking the SVD transform from it, and with the help of the PSO transform to find the scaling factor. In the extraction section, contourlet transform is taken from both the host and watermark images and the results are expressed with and without DnCNN. Attack robustness has also been compared with other articles using different images and applying different attacks. The values ​​obtained for false positive in the results section show that this scheme does not have such a problem and is also robust to various attacks.
Quantitative and qualitative analysis of medical students’ symptoms and feelings during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Felix Soraia Nogueira , Costa Anna Paula Lima , Andrade Juliana Matsumoto , Ballester Denise , Tempski Patrícia Zen , Kobayasi Renata , Garcia Maria Lúcia Bueno , Costa Fernanda Magalhães Arantes , Freitas Lucas Rodrigues Silva , Correia Aristides Tadeu , Tibério Iolanda de Fátima Lopes Calvo , Romanholo Beatriz Mangueira Saraiva , Martins Milton de Arruda 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, traditional face-to-face teaching was disrupted, leading to a transition to online activities. Social restrictions and isolation during this period may have contributed to various physical and emotional disorders, such as anxiety, depression, reduced perception of happiness, and a decline in overall quality of life. The objective of our study was to assess the perceptions of medical students regarding their emotions, anxiety and depression symptoms, and daily experiences during the pandemic.
Methods
We conducted a prospective study with both quantitative and qualitative components involving students in their 1st to 4th year of medicine at a private university in São Paulo, Brazil in 2020 and 2021. Participants completed online questionnaires, including the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Oxford Happiness Questionnaire (OHQ), and Medical Student Quality-of-Life Questionnaire (VERAS-Q). Additionally, they engaged in online focus group discussions.
Results
A total of 313 students completed the questionnaires, and 200 participated in the focus group. Women exhibited higher scores for anxiety (p = 0.002) and depression (p = 0.007), while men demonstrated better quality of life (p = 0.042). The students aged 18 to 24 years (p = 0.048) presented better quality of life and lower trait anxiety (p = 0.001). Both trait and state anxiety were strongly associated with depression (p < 0.01) and inversely related to quality of life, showing a moderate association with happiness (p < 0.01). Depression was strongly linked to both trait and state anxiety (p < 0.01) and moderately negatively correlated with happiness and quality of life (p < 0.01). The focus groups revealed recurring negative feelings among students, such as anxiety, depression, tiredness, discouragement, loneliness, difficulty managing time, poor sleep quality, exacerbation of harmful habits, and challenges in relationships, resulting in reduced mental and physical health during the pandemic. Coping strategies were discussed, including the adoption of new healthy habits, religious practices, and reconnection with family.
Conclusion
Depression and anxiety symptoms were more prevalent among females, while quality of life improved for younger and male students. The qualitative analysis enhanced our understanding of the determinants and consequences of students' recurring negative feelings, and also showed positive aspects like greater proximity to family and religiosity.