bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Optimize Multiscale Feature Hybrid-Net Deep Learning Approach Used for Automatic Pancreas Image Segmentation
Authors: Paithane Pradip 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
The accurate and clean pancreatic segmentation problem is a significant and difficult challenge in the research ofmedical imaging. The proposed approach is helpful in Bottom-Up techniques for quickly and accurately identifyingpancreatic cancer-affected areas in the kidney and pancreas. The proposed approach is employed for multiple organdetection with fine outliers from Computed Tomography scan images with sharp precision. In the proposed approach,19 layers are used with 4 convolution layers. The optimized multiscale feature hybrid block is utilized. The convolutionlayer incorporates the small feature block with a similar or different size of kernel block. The dense convolution isdivided into sub-convolution layers with their own ”Batch normalization” layer. The convolution operation is performedon sub-convolution layers with the ”Swish activation” function. The aggregates function only uses features that arenecessary, causing unused data to be dropped at the convolution layer. The Validation Accuracy(98.82% ), precisionvalue (84.14±19.03) Training global accuracy (95.486%) values are improvised as compared to State-of-Art. Theproposed approach achieved a dice similarity index score upto 90.29±84.34%. During testing, the segmentation ofmedical images by the proposed approach, takes 1 to 2 seconds. In deep learning approaches, many convolution layersare added to the model to achieve high accuracy but training as well as unnecessary computational time also increases.The proposed approach overcomes this drawback with an optimized convolution layer number. The proposed approachis considering the only hybrid sub-convolution layer with required multiscale feature blocks only
A Comparative Study of MAFLD as a Predictor for Metabolic Disease Therapies Against NAFLD in Repeated Health Check-Ups: A Novel Perspective on Fatty Liver
Authors: Imai Jin , Takashimizu Shinji , Suzuki Nana , Ohshinden Kana , Sawamoto Kana , Mishima Yusuke , Tsuruya Kota , Arase Yoshitaka , Yamano Mitsuhiko , Kishimoto Noriaki , Yamada Chizumi , Inoue Nagamu , Moriyama Kengo , Baba Akiyasu , Suzuki Hidekazu , Kagawa Tatehiro , Nishizaki Yasuhiro 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background
A novel concept of Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD) was proposed, incorporating metabolic abnormalities such as obesity and diabetes, which are risk factors that affect the prognosis. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), entails fat accumulation in the liver without alcohol consumption and is often linked to obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome. However, the broad nature of the disease concept has hindered prognosis accuracy. In this study, we assess the contribution of the impact of diagnostic criteria for MAFLD on metabolic disease progression compared to conventional diagnostic criteria for NAFLD.
Methods
A total of 7,159 patient who were presented to the health screening center in Tokai University Hospital both in 2015 and 2020 were included in the study. Fatty liver was diagnosed using abdominal ultrasonography. The diagnostic criteria for NAFLD were consistent with the global guidelines based on alcohol consumption. The diagnostic criteria for MAFLD were based on the International Consensus Panel. Medications (anti-hypertensive, diabetic, and dyslipidemia medications) were evaluated by self-administration in the submitted medical questionnaire.
Result
A total of 2,500 (34.9%) participants were diagnosed with fatty liver (FL+), 1,811 (72.4%) fit both NAFLD and MAFLD diagnostic criteria (overlap), 230 (9.2%) fit only the NAFLD diagnostic criteria (NAFLD group) and 404 (16.1%) fit the MAFLD diagnostic criteria (MAFLD group) at 2015. Over the next 5 years, medication rates increased in the NAFLD group for anti-hypertensive, + 17 (7.4%); diabetes, + 3 (1.3%); and dyslipidemia, + 32 (13.9%). In contrast, the only-MAFLD group showed a more significant increase with + 49(12.1%), + 21(5.2%), and + 49(12.1%), for the respective medications, indicating a substantial rise in patients starting new medications.
Conclusion
Our analysis of repeated health check-ups on participants revealed that the diagnostic criteria for MAFLD are more predictive of future treatment for metabolic disease than conventional diagnostic criteria for NAFLD.
Influence of gold coating on design and performance of high-g SOI technology based MEMS inertial switch
Authors: Vashisth Anuj K. , Singh Milap , Yadav Isha , Kumar Rajesh , Dutta Shankar 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
MEMS based inertial switches have important applications in defense, automobile, and aviation sectors. The materials for these inertial switches are either metals or low-resistivity silicon. This paper discussed about the amalgamation of metal and silicon in the MEMS inertial switch (500 g) structure to achieve high performance and high current handling capability. The switch structure, comprises of four series-parallel beam supported large proof-mass suspended over a gap of 4 µm. The resonant frequency of the switch structure is found to be 4.2 kHz. The dimensions of the switch structure are studied by parametric analysis. The transient response of the gold coated silicon MEMS inertial switch structure showed contact (on-state) duration of 230–380 µs due to the 10% variation in half-sine threshold acceleration value (500 g). The variation in acceleration input pulse width (0.25–1 ms) yielded a large variation in contact duration (2.5–370 µs). In response to two successive half-sine acceleration pulses, variation in contact duration is observed due to the superimposition of residual movement of the proof-mass arising due to first pulse with the response of the second acceleration pulse. The electro-thermal behaviour (under 1A current flow in the switch contact duration) of the gold coated (1.0 µm) switch structure showed a substantial reduction in temperature rise (due to Joule heating) from 413 K to 301 K. Thus, the gold coating on the silicon MEMS inertial switch lowered on-state resistance by one order and improved current handling capability due to less Joule heating issue.
Revisiting the Surgical Approach for Recurrent Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Insights from a Single Institute's Experience in Overcoming Challenges
Authors: Chen YiChan , Soong Ruey-Shyang , Chiang Po-Hsing , Chai Shion Wei , Chien Chih-Ying 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Introduction:
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) prevails in Taiwan, primarily attributed to the high incidence of hepatitis B and hepatitis C infections with high recurrent rates of 50-70% within five years after initial treatment. When confronted with recurrent HCC, treatment options include salvage liver transplantation, trans-arterial chemo-embolization (TACE), re-hepatectomy, and radio-frequency ablation (RFA). Notably, repeat hepatectomy exhibits superior oncological outcomes compared to alternative approaches. While laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) has demonstrated safety and feasibility in primary HCC resection, the persistence of intra-hepatic recurrence necessitates effective interventions. However, repeat liver resection posed challenges, including adhesions from previous surgeries, limited access to recurrent tumors, altered liver structure post-regeneration, difficulties in obtaining hilar control, and compromised liver reserve.
Patients and methods:
We retrospectively review our collective experience spanning January 2009 to December 2021, encompassing 57 patients with recurrent HCC. Among them, 37 patients underwent laparoscopic approaches, while 20 patients opted for traditional procedures.
Results:
Notably, both groups exhibited similar operative times and perioperative outcomes, with significantly reduced hospital stays observed in the laparoscopic cohort (median: 5 vs 7, p<0.001). The introduction of laparoscopic techniques also sparked a strategy shifting in our surgical approach to recurrent HCC.
Conclusion:
Our manuscript aims to delineate a stepwise approach for navigating the challenges inherent in repeat operations, elucidating techniques for peritoneal cavity entry, meticulous adhesiolysis, effective Pringle maneuver application, tumor identification, and pertinent insights into perioperative outcomes. Under the stepwise approach, laparoscopic repeat liver resection can be performed safely and effectively with low incidence of conversion. This treatment choice should be offered to the patient in a mature surgical team of minimal invasive liver resection.
Effectiveness of a postpartum breastfeeding support group intervention in promoting exclusive breastfeeding and perceived self-efficacy: a multicentre randomized clinical trial
Authors: Rodríguez-Gallego Isabel , Corrales-Gutierrez Isabel , Gomez-Baya Diego , Leon-Larios Fatima 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Background: There are numerous recognized benefits of breastfeeding,however, sociocultural, individual, and environmental factors influence its initiation and continuation; sometimes leading to breastfeeding rates during the postpartum period that are lower than recommended by international guidelines.The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a group intervention led by midwives supporting breastfeeding during the postpartum period in promoting exclusive breastfeeding up to when the newborn reached 4 months of age, as well as, to assess the impact of this intervention on perceived self-efficacy and its relationships with the duration and exclusivity of breastfeeding.
Methods: A multicentric cluster randomized controlled trial with a control group and an intervention group and was not blinded. Participant recruitment began in October 2021 and ended in May 2023.A total of 382 women from Andalusia (Southern Spain) participated in the study.The control group received usual care, while the intervention group also participated in a postpartum breastfeeding support group led by a midwife. The main variables were measured during the postpartum visit and when the newborn was 2 and 4 months old.
Results: At 4 months postpartum, there was a higher prevalence of breastfeeding in the intervention group compared to formula feeding (p = 0.01), as well as a higher prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding (p= 0.03). Perceived self-efficacy was similar in both groups, with slightly higher initial scores in the intervention group than in the control group. From the beginning of the postpartum period to 2 months, there was a notable increase in self-efficacy (control group = 56.15 ± 11.01 vs intervention group = 59.75 ± 9.64), which then remained stable until 4 months (control group = 55.87 ± 13.03 vs intervention group = 59.96 ± 11.04). The intervention improved the average scores of perceived self-efficacy and indirectly caused higher rates of exclusive breastfeeding, an effect observed especially at 4 months postpartum (p= 0.005).
Conclusions: The midwife-led group intervention supporting breastfeeding during the postpartum period proved to be effective at maintaining exclusive breastfeeding at 4 months postpartum and also at increasing perceived self-efficacy.
Trial registration:International Standard Registered Clinical/Social Study Number registry (Trial ID: ISRCTN17263529; date recorded: 17 June 2020).
DFT Analysis of Charge Distribution and Electrostatic Potential in SiO 2 Ring Clusters with Different Planar Folds
Authors: Mekky Abdel-baset H. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Nano-sized SiO2 ring clusters have been on the rise as intriguing blocks of structures that presently involve multifarious applications. Electric, mechanical, and chemical properties distinguish these. A full picture of their behavior has not been discovered. In our work, we delve into the fundamental aspects of SiO2 ring clusters; the goal being to elucidate their characteristic features and the pathways to an engineer to purpose. We use density functional theory (DFT) calculations for the optimization of geometries, energies, and charges of SiO2 ring clusters. MEP analysis of the molecular surface is also involved to see the electrostatic behavior. The Mulliken charge atomic computations help in deciphering how charge allocation and polarity are dependent on atoms within the clusters. The nucleophilic character of oxygen atoms is very high in comparison with silicon which shows electrophile features. Poles are located at the regions connecting aforementioned atoms, making clusters reactive. The MEP analysis shows the big range of interconnected properties. Considerably, the plane fold- a geometrical classifier- modifies notably the surface potential shapes. Different folds result in distinct charge environments. The one closest atom to the centers of the smallest ring (planar fold) is the crucial factor. It bears symmetry, stability, and reactivity. Getting this influence is very important for the synthesis of the SiO2 ring cluster. In essence, our study connects the theoretical underpinning with the practical ramifications, highlighting the critical interplay between charge allocation, electric potential, and shape features. Through exploiting these perspectives, scientists can bring the production process of cutting-edge nanomaterials to a higher level. Our results prove that nanoscale systems engineering appeared.
Grafting polyanhydride polymers to cellulose nanofibers
Authors: Wu Xiao , Babi Mouhanad , Moran-Mirabal Jose , Pelton Robert H. 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Poly(ethylene-alt-maleic anhydride), PEMA, and modified PEMA with pendant poly(ethylene glycol) oligomers (PEG3, PEG10, PEG20) in anhydrous acetone were grafted onto mechanically produced cellulose microfibrils, CNF. The grafted CNF had up to 4.7 mmol/g of carboxylic acid groups from the hydrolyzed PEMA. Before and after grafting, the concentrations of individualized microfibrils were low (< 10% wt/wt). Atomic force microscopy revealed that the main CNF components were intermeshed microfibrils, microfibril bundles, and ribbons a few µm wide. Mastersizer particle size distributions were usually bimodal, with 10–20 µm and 100–200 µm peaks. We proposed the smaller peaks were individualized ribbons and the larger were flocculated ribbons and microfibrils. Based on the images of dried ribbons adsorbed on cationic glass and the shapes of aqueous ribbons sitting near the non-adhesive anionic glass, the PEMA-treated ribbons were stiffer than the PEMA-PEG grafted ribbons. Perhaps the high anhydride concentration on PEMA facilitated more crosslinking of the CNF surfaces compared to PEMA-PEG polymers with about 10 times less reactive anhydride groups. There was evidence that PEG-rich grafted polymers partially inhibited the formation of CNF aggregates in water.
The use of Advanced Footwear Technology shoes in amateur runners
Authors: Bonato Matteo , Pedrinelli Chiara , Ferraris Luigi , Filipas Luca 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Purpose. Advanced Footwear Technology (AFT) are performance enhancing shoes that combines lightweight, resilient midsole foams with rigid moderators and pronounced rocker profiles in the soles. This was a pilot study that explored the use of AFT during training and competition and to describe the injuries sustained in amateur runners.
Methods. This was a retrospective cross-sectional observational pilot study in which 61 amateur runners completed an anonymous questionnaire to determine: demographic characteristics; running activities and injuries sustained using AFT.
Results.The main brands used were Nike (41%), Adidas (12%), Hoka (11%), Sauconi (10%), New Balance (8%), Puma (8%), Brooks (5%), Mizuno (3%), Under Armour (2%). Runners used AFT once a week (67.8%), up to three times a week (27.1%), and 6 times a week (5.1%) less than a year (35%), from 1 to 3 years (50%), and more than 3 years (15%). The 61.7% runners perceived a change in running technique, with greater support on the forefoot (40%), higher activation of calf muscles (36%), different torso position (13.3%), and running instability (10.7%). Onset of delayed muscle soreness appeared after 24 hours training session (62.1%), after 3 months (20.7%), after 1 month (10.3%), and after 1 week (6.9%) the use of AFT. Eight runners (11.8%) reported that they sustained an injury after the use of AFT.
Conclusions. The use of AFT leads to a change perception in running technique amateur runners. Therefore, they should introduce them gradually in their training routine.
Design of an Apnea Monitoring Device for Preterm Babies
Authors: Shankar Srinivasan Balapangu , Kuuziile Mark Konyele , Caesar-Wood Fergus , Attakorah Amaniampong Comfort , Owusu Emmanuel , Darko Felix Kwakye , Adjei Desmond Kwetey 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

Apnea, a medical condition characterized by the cessation of breath for more than 15–20 seconds, is a significant health concern affecting an estimated 936 million people globally, with a more significant number being children. In preterm babies, sleep apnea can be a more prevalent issue due to their underdeveloped airways and breathing mechanisms. This condition leaves preterm infants susceptible to complications such as cognitive impairment and cerebral palsy. In Ghana, there is a lack of stand-alone apnea monitoring devices. Given that between 1–5% of children are born with obstructive sleep apnea, the need for such devices is essential. In response to this need, we applied frugal engineering principles to design a user-friendly prototype of an apnea monitor for early detection. The design comprises four central units: a power supply unit, a signal acquisition unit, a processing unit, and a display unit. The system obtains breathing signals from the thoracic region using respiratory and pressure sensors that measure and record the thoracic effort during breathing. These signals are then amplified by an operational amplifier (LM324) and processed by an ATMEGA328p microcontroller programmed using the Arduino IDE. The output is subsequently displayed on a liquid-crystal display (LCD) screen. The device was tested on an adult male with over 90% accuracy in detecting apnea. The outcome indicated the potential of the device to contribute to the early detection and management of apnea, thereby mitigating its associated health risks.
Aggregating Bipolar Opinions through Bipolar Assumption-based Argumentation
Authors: Dickie Charles , Lauren Stefan , Belardinelli Francesco , Rago Antonio , Toni Francesca 
Published: February 2024

Abstract

We introduce a novel method to aggregate Bipolar Argumentation Frameworks expressing opinions of different parties in debates. We use Bipolar Assumption-based Argumentation (ABA) as an all-encompassing formalism for Bipolar Argumentation under different semantics. By leveraging on recent results on judgement aggregation in Social Choice Theory, we prove several preservation results for relevant properties of Bipolar ABA using quota and oligarchic rules. Specifically, we prove (positive and negative) results about the preservation of conflict-free, closed, admissible, preferred, complete, set-stable, well-founded and ideal extensions in Bipolar ABA, as well as the preservation of acceptability, acyclicity and coherence for individual assumptions. Finally, we illustrate our methodology and results in the context of a case study on opinion aggregation for the treatment of long COVID patients.
Sustainable Management of Construction and Demolition Waste in Bangladesh: Advancing a Greener Industry through Resource Recovery and Recycling
Authors: Rafiq Md. Sahil , Khandaker Nadim Reza 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Findings from the study reveal that Construction and Demolition Waste (CDW) in Bangladesh mainly consists of concrete (56%), brick (15%), mortar (9%), metal (6%), and ceramics (6%). However, the exact constitution may differ depending on the structure and type and structure of building. Additionally, the collective CDW produced in Dhaka, Chittagong, Khulna, Rajshahi, Barisal, and Sylhet totals 3.71 million tons (MT). The WGR of construction and demolition waste is assessed through regression analysis. The mean WGR for Construction and Demolition activities in the fiscal year 2022–2023 are notably recorded at 64.68 kg/m2 and 1626.97 kg/m2, correspondingly for the twelve city corporations of Bangladesh. Unfortunately, a substantial portion of this waste is inadequately disposed of in landfills. The study highlights the potential for entrepreneurial initiatives in recycling materials like concrete, brick, mortar, metal, ceramics, and timber, leading to reduced CO2 emissions and energy consumption. The estimated economic value of recycling concrete, brick and mortar in major cities is approximately 104.5 million USD and 0.45 MT of CO2 reduction from recycling brick and metals from major cities. These findings provide crucial quantitative data for government bodies and industries aiding in developing strategies for CDW management in Bangladesh.
18F-FDG PET/CT in diagnosis and management of Mycobacterium chimaera infection following cardiac surgery: a single-centre experience with nine consecutive patients
Authors: Ave Samuele , Battagin Giuliana , Zaroccolo Marta , Greco Marcella , Mascarello Marta , Giordani Maria Teresa , Lupi Andrea , Manfrin Vinicio 
Published: February 2024

Abstract
Purpose
to evaluate the role of seriated 18-fluoro-2-deoxyglucose positron emission tomography-computed tomography (18F-FDG PET-CT) in the diagnosis and management of disseminated Mycobacterium chimaera infection following cardiac surgery.
Methods
we retrospectively describe nine consecutive confirmed cases of disseminated M. chimaera infection after cardiac surgery who underwent seriated 18F-FDG PET/CT to facilitate the diagnosis and treatment monitoring. Clinical characteristics, laboratory tests and microbial culture microbiological findings, transthoracic (TTE) and transesophageal (TOE) echocardiography, brain MR and other tests are also discussed.
Results
The mean time between cardiac surgery and symptoms onset was 32 months (range 10 months to 7.7 years). Echocardiography (TTE + TOE ) detected endocarditis (IE) signs in 3/9 patients (sensibility 33%, 6/9 pts having mechanical aortic valve); blood culture was positive in 5/9 patients (sens. 56%). At diagnosis 7/9 PET/CT scans were positive for IE and/or aortic root prosthesis infection (sens. 78%). All diagnostic PET/CT scans were suggestive for systemic infection with hypermetabolism in one or more extracardiac sites (e.g.: lymph nodes, lung, muscle, liver spleen, kidney, CNS, axial skeleton).
Conclusions
18F-FDG PET/CT proved to be a useful tool in diagnosis of disseminated M. chimaera infection to assess the extent and to identify potential sites of biopsy when routine microbiological work-up does not isolate M. chimaera. Seriated scans define the activity of disease over time and contribute to clinical work-up as prolongation or modulation of antimicrobial therapy, prognosis formulation and referral to revision surgery.