bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comparison of HyperArc, IMRT, and VMAT plans for Graves’ ophthalmopathy radiotherapy
Authors: Zhu Xiaopeng , Zhang Zhe , Peng Feng , Liu Yajie 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Objective
To compare the dosimetric parameters of three different radiotherapy techniques, HyperArc (HA), volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT), and intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), for patients with Graves’ ophthalmopathy (GO), and to provide guidance for the clinical choice of radiotherapy methods for GO.
Materials and Methods
Eight patients with GO were enrolled in this study. HA, IMRT, and VMAT plans were generated for each patient. The dosimetric parameters of the target and the organs at risk (OARs) were compared and analyzed among the three plans.
Results
Compared with VMAT and IMRT plans, the HA plan had a higher conformity index (CI) (HA vs. VMAT, p = 0.012; HA vs. IMRT, p = 0.012) and homogeneity index (HI) (HA vs. VMAT, p = 0.042; HA vs. IMRT, p = 0.012), a lower gradient index (GI) (HA vs. VMAT, p = 0.012; HA vs. IMRT, p = 0.012) and a lower dose to the optic chiasm (HA vs. VMAT, p = 0.012; HA vs. IMRT, p = 0.012) and the brainstem maximum dose (HA vs. VMAT, p = 0.025; HA vs. IMRT, p = 0.017). The dose to lenses and the brain were similar to those in VMAT and IMRT plans (p > 0.05). The dose to the eyeballs slightly increased (left eye: HA vs. VMAT, p = 0.036; HA vs. IMRT, p = 0.012. Right eye: HA vs. VMAT, p = 0.012; HA vs. IMRT, p = 0.012). The machine unit (MU) of the HA plan is the lowest among the three plans.
Conclusion
For radiotherapy of GO, HA, IMRT, and VMAT are all feasible techniques. Compared with IMRT and VMAT, HA has better target coverage and conformity, homogeneity, and dose gradient, as well as better sparing of critical OARs, while saving treatment time. HA can be considered as the preferred technique for radiotherapy of GO.
Bioaccumulation Potentials, Growth Attributes, Stress Enzymes Determination, and Proximate Content of Zea Mays (L.) Walp. Grown in Copper Nanoparticles-Amended Soil
Authors: Akanbi-Gada Mariam A. , Saliu Abiola O. , Iyanda Yusuf A. , Olaoye Abdulrazaq A. 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Copper is a nutrient required in small quantity by maize during growth, but it is not readily available to maize. Nanotechnology may however be helpful in the effective delivery of this nutrient. This study investigates the impact of copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) on growth attributes, stress enzymes, and the bioaccumulation potential of maize grown on CuNPs amended soils. The research was conducted in a screenhouse located at Kwara State University, Malete with the following coordinates (latitude 80 43' '' 8 and longitude 40 29' 11"). The Experiment was a Randomized Block Design experiment (RBD) with four seeds of maize planted separately in 2 kg of sandy loam soil pre-treated with 4, 8 and 12 mg/kg CuNPs while the control was the pots without CuNPs and these were replicated thrice making a total of 12 pots. Chlorophyll content, enzymatic antioxidants, bioaccumulation potential and proximate contents were determined following standard methods. Data obtained from the experiment were subjected to one-way Analysis of variance (ANOVA) while its mean value were analyzed with Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at P≤0.05. Bar chart was drawn using Origin Scientific Graphing and analysis software. CuNPs greatly enhanced plant growth, productivity, chlorophyll content, stress enzymes: [(Malondialdehyde (MDA), Catalase (CAT), Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and Superoxide dismutase (SOD)] and bioaccumulation. This study concludes that at high concentrations, application of CuNPs on maize can hinder or arrest its growth and productivity as well as the death of the entire plants despite the fact that it is a micronutrient.
Optimizing Carbon Stock Estimation in Tree Vegetation through PRISMA Hyperspectral Remote Sensing Data and Machine Learning Approach: A Case Study in Mount Merbabu National Park
Authors: Melati Pegi , Danoedoro Projo , Arief Rahmat , Arjasakusuma Sanjiwana 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The forest ecosystem's pivotal role in the carbon cycle and its impact on the global carbon balance underscore the significance of understanding and mitigating factors that contribute to carbon emissions. This study employs a combination of hyperspectral remote sensing (PRISMA) and machine learning techniques (Random Forest) to estimate the carbon stock of tree vegetation. Recognizing the necessity for variable optimization, the research focuses on identifying the most optimal variables from PRISMA hyperspectral imagery to model tree vegetation carbon stock. Additionally, the study evaluates the accuracy of the model by employing two variable selection methods: Stepwise Regression and Boruta. The research contributes to a comprehensive understanding of tree vegetation carbon dynamics by conducting estimation and mapping in Mount Merbabu National Park. Results indicate that the Random Forest-Boruta model consistently outperforms the Random Forest-Stepwise model, demonstrating superior accuracy and precision. Specifically, Random Forest-Boruta I (α = 0.01) exhibits a Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 2.25 ton/pixel, a normalized RMSE (nRMSE) of 22.77%, a Standard Error of Estimate (SEE) of 2.6 ton/pixel, maximum accuracy at 65.52%, and a Bias of 0.23. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and environmental stakeholders, offering a robust framework for managing and preserving forest ecosystems as part of global climate change mitigation strategies.
A Fair Individualized Polysocial Risk Score for Identifying Increased Social Risk in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Bian Jiang , Huang Yu , Guo Jingchuan , Donahoo William , Fan Zhengkang , Lu Ying , Chen Wei-Han , Tang Huilin , Bilello Lori , Saguil Aaron , Rosenberg Eric , Shenkman Elizabeth 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background: Racial and ethnic minority groups and individuals facing social disadvantages, which often stem from their social determinants of health (SDoH), bear a disproportionate burden of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and its complications. It is crucial to implement effective social risk management strategies at the point of care.
Objective: To develop an electronic health records (EHR)-based machine learning (ML) analytical pipeline to address unmet social needs associated with hospitalization risk in patients with T2D.
Methods: We identified real-world patients with T2D from the EHR data from University of Florida (UF) Health Integrated Data Repository (IDR), incorporating both contextual SDoH (e.g., neighborhood deprivation) and individual-level SDoH (e.g., housing instability). The 2015-2020 data were used for training and validation and 2021-2022 data for independent testing. We developed a machine learning analytic pipeline, namely individualized polysocial risk score (iPsRS), to identify high social risk associated with hospitalizations in T2D patients, along with explainable AI (XAI) and fairness optimization.
Results: The study cohort included 10,192 real-world patients with T2D, with a mean age of 59 years and 58% female. Of the cohort, 50% were non-Hispanic White, 39% were non-Hispanic Black, 6% were Hispanic, and 5% were other races/ethnicities. Our iPsRS, including both contextual and individual-level SDoH as input factors, achieved a C statistic of 0.72 in predicting 1-year hospitalization after fairness optimization across racial and ethnic groups. The iPsRS showed excellent utility for capturing individuals at high hospitalization risk because of SDoH, that is, the actual 1-year hospitalization rate in the top 5% of iPsRS was 28.1%, ~13 times as high as the bottom decile (2.2% for 1-year hospitalization rate).
Conclusion: Our ML pipeline iPsRS can fairly and accurately screen for patients who have increased social risk leading to hospitalization in real word patients with T2D.
Research on improving the method of mental health intelligence evaluation of college students under decision tree
Authors: Liu Xiao-ying , liu Xiao-ying 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Based on the behavior characteristics of college students, the evaluation of mental health status is mainly based on the characteristics of a single dimension, which makes the evaluation results more error. Therefore, a method of College Students' mental health evaluation based on improved decision tree is proposed. Construct and improve the decision tree structure, establish the evaluation index system including learning pressure, employment pressure and communication pressure, and construct the evaluation model of mental health status according to the established system; According to the evaluation factor set, comment set, fuzzy subset of weight and membership degree, the mental health status is evaluated, and the feature dimension of mental state perception data is constructed. According to the implementation steps of fuzzy integration evaluation method, the results of College Students' mental health evaluation are obtained. The experimental results show that the main factors affecting the mental health status of college students are employment pressure and academic pressure. This method can effectively reflect the mental health status of college students, which is consistent with the actual mental health status evaluation results.
Physico-chemical characterisation of selective TiO2 layer on kaolin-based ceramic membranes
Authors: Kyrii Svitlana , Misevych Anna , Romaniuk Oleh , Tereshkov Mykhail , Ivzhenko Hlib , Kwapinski Witold , Dontsova Tetiana 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
The selective layer in a ceramic membrane is crucial for separation and filtration processes, as it endows the membrane with specific properties and functions, determining its selectivity and suitability for various applications. This study aimed to investigate the impact of the type of composition used to create a selective layer on low-cost clay ceramic membranes and to determine their physicochemical properties and permeability. In this study, a ceramic membrane substrate based on kaolin was synthesized and characterized using XRD, thermal analysis, and IR spectroscopy, and its mechanical properties were also tested. Selective layers on the ceramic membrane were synthesized with various compositions using spin-coating. They were characterized using IR spectroscopy, diffuse reflectance absorption spectrum, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The SEM images of all samples show a dense structure typical of clay materials. These images indicate that the composition and number of layers have minimal impact on the morphology in this case. The obtained ceramic membranes are characterized by a pore size ranging from 50 – 200 μm. The permeability of the ceramic membrane support is 40 cm3/min·cm2, which decreases with the application of selective layers. Selectivity by turbidity increases from 32% to 66.4%.
An unconventional retrograde approach for self-expanding metallic stent delivery in oesophagus cancer palliation
Authors: Conceição Daniel , Simões Carolina , Francisco Fátima , Claro Isabel 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Partially Covered Self-expanding metallic stents (SEMS) are the main recommendation for palliative treatment of malignant dysphagia. Delivering self-expanding metallic stents in stenosing oesophagus neoplasia’s are often challenging due to the difficulty on passing a guide wire through the tumour. We describe a case in which the guidewire was only able to franchise the tumour retrogradely, after entering the gastric cavity through the percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy orifice using an ultra slim scope.
Examining the Effect of Foot Reflexology on Anxiety and Physiological Indices in Patients Undergoing Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy: ARandomized Clinical Trial Study
Authors: Safdari Ali , Barasteh Salman , Dolatshahi Sahar , Farahani Zahra Borzabadi 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Introduction: Patients preparing for extracorporeal Shock Wave lithotripsy (ESWL) often experience anxiety, which may affect the procedure's success. While foot reflexology has proven effective in reducing anxiety and stabilizing physiological indicators during various medical procedures, its impact on anxiety during lithotripsy remains unclear. This study aims to investigate foot reflexology's influence on anxiety and physiological indicators in patients undergoing ESWL.
Methods: In this randomized clinical trial conducted at Sina Hospital in Arak City, Central Iran in 2023. 70 patients eligible for extracorporeal lithotripsy were randomly allocated into either an intervention or a control group. The study employed the Spielberger questionnaire to measure patients' anxiety levels and used a blood pressure monitor and pulse oximeter to assess physiological indicators. Participants in the intervention group received 10 minutes of foot reflexology. The research focused on evaluating outcomes including anxiety and some physiological parameters, including heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and arterial blood oxygen saturation (SPO2). These assessments were conducted at three different times; before the intervention, immediately after the intervention, and just before the extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) procedure in both groups. This is a clinical trial study with code IRCT20190729044370N2 registered on 2022-06-18.
Results: There was no statistically significant difference in the clinical and demographic information of patients between the two groups, before the study (p > 0.05). The findings of this study revealed a significant difference in patient anxiety levels after intervention (p<0.05). The data analysis also indicated a meaningful difference in heart rate and diastolic blood pressure in patients immediately before the extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) (p<0.05). However, this difference was not significant for systolic blood pressure and arterial blood oxygen saturation percentage (p>0.05). Based on the results of the two-way repeated measures analysis of variance, the effect of acupressure with respect to time and group was not significant on any of the physiological indices studied (p > 0.05).
Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that the use of reflexology techniques positively influences the reduction of anxiety in patients undergoing extracorporeal lithotripsy. However, its effect on the physiological indices of patients requires further evidence-based research. Based on these findings, it is suggested that reflexology be used as a simple, easy, and effective method for managing patient anxiety during this procedure.
Seismic behaviour and design of a tall mixed steel-reinforced concrete structure supporting an oil refinery reactor
Authors: Radaiou Smaragdi , Skalomenos Konstantinos , Papagiannopoulos George 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

This study investigates the seismic behaviour of a special mixed steel-reinforced concrete structure that supports an oil refinery reactor. The structure is 64.90 m tall and consists of three parts: (a) a concrete frame basement; (b) a steel braced frame that supports the oil reactor and (c) the steel reactor itself. A three-dimensional model of the structure is created to perform static non-linear (pushover) analyses in order to obtain the capacity curves and understand the overall inelastic behavior of the structure. The results of the pushover analysis reveal that the structure exhibits similar inelastic behavior in both horizontal directions and satisfy the capacity design principles. The structure shows limited ductility considering the fact that has been designed with a behavior factor of q = 1.5 and primary damages are expected mainly in concrete members. Subsequently, dynamic non-linear time-history (NLTH) analyses are performed utilizing the three translational components of three seismic motions recorded during past earthquakes. These results involve: i) the maximum values for displacements, accelerations and base shears; ii) the maximum stresses at critical points of the oil refining reactor and iii) the formation of plastic hinges at columns, beams and braces of the structure. Opposite to the pushover analysis, NLTH analyses revealed that strong ground motions can lead to the development of plastic hinges that do not follow the desirable failure pattern and is likely to be related to the absence of adequate ductility-based design requirements. In case of a significant seismic event, accelerations and displacements observed are expected to cause failure of the piping and mechanical equipment, while local failures at high-stress areas of the oil reactor is possible. Localized strengthening might be necessary to avoid repair works and downtime after strong seismic events.
Bioinformatics analysis reveals link between alternative complement cascade pathway and colorectal cancer liver metastasis
Authors: Shi Chang-Yu , Li Yong , Wei Rui-Q , Deng Jing , Zou Qin-Ling , Yang Si-Qi , Piao Chunmei , Jin Ming 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background
Colorectal cancer (CRC) has a high incidence mortality rate and is characterized by liver metastasis, which is the main cause of CRC patient death. In this study, a transcriptome sequencing dataset (GSE81558) from the integrated Gene Expression Omnibus database was evaluated to gain new insights into the pathogenesis of CRC and potential therapeutic targets.
Methods
All raw data were processed using R and screened for differentially expressed genes (DEGs) using LIMMA software. In-depth Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were conducted and visualized using R and Cytoscape software. Protein‒protein interactions (PPIs) associated with the DEGs were assessed using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins database. A mouse model of CRC liver metastasis of CRC was used to verify key associated signaling pathways.
Results
The GO biological processes (BPs) and KEGG pathway analyses revealed that DEGs between the normal colon and CRC samples were mainly involved in the cell cycle and the P53 signaling pathway, which regulate the cell cycle and alter tumor signaling pathways. The 10 hub genes identified by PPI were cell cycle-related. In CRC versus and CRC liver metastasis samples, the GO BPs were mainly associated with platelets and coagulation, and the KEGG pathways were mainly enriched in the complement and coagulation cascades and drug metabolism. The PPI hub genes were blood protein-related, such as ALB, AHSG, and APOH, or plasma protease inhibitors, such as SERPINC1. To confirm bioinformatics analysis results, we used wild-type (WT), C4 (an important molecule in the classical and lectin complement cascade pathways), and complement factor B (fB, an important molecule in the alternative complement cascade pathway) knockout (KO) mice to construct a CRC liver metastasis model. Compared with WT mice, fB-KO mice demonstrated significantly reduced liver metastasis and inflammation, while there was no difference in C4-KO mice.
Conclusion
Bioinformatics analyses revealed that the complement cascade is related to CRC liver metastasis and that the cell cycle is related to CRC. The role of the alternative complement pathway in CRC liver metastasis was confirmed in mice, indicating that this pathway is a potential therapeutic target in CRC liver metastasis and providing a theoretical basis for further research.
Picroside II alleviated non-alcoholic fatty liver disease via the AMPK-Nrf2 pathway.
Authors: Zhao Lilei , Chen Xinhua , Li Zheng , Wei Yunfei , Shen Bingyu , Wang Qi , Cheng Jiaqi , Feng Haihua 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Background
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common cause of liver injury and increases the risk for other diseases, particularly with the rising rates of obesity. Picroside has been utilized as a traditional Chinese medicine for liver protection for thousands of years, and Picroside II is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidation effects.
Methods
We used C57BL/6 mice to establish the tyloxapol-induced NAFLD model and employed oleic acid (OA) and palmitic acid (PA) for the cell model. Fat concentration and activation of the AMPK-Nrf2 pathway were assessed through staining, biochemical assays, and protein expression analysis.
Results
Treatment with Picroside II reduced fat concentration and activated the AMPK-Nrf2 pathway. In the mouse model, Picroside II protected the liver from excessive fat accumulation and also reduced blood lipid levels. Furthermore, Picroside II enhanced the body's antioxidant capacity.
Conclusion
Picroside II exhibits protective effects against NAFLD by reducing fat accumulation through the activation of the AMPK-Nrf2 pathway, making it a potential candidate for drug development.
Navigating the Daydreamscape: An In-Depth Exploration of Maladaptive Daydreaming, Coping Strategies, and Mental Well-Being
Authors: Moment Lauren Denise 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Maladaptive daydreaming, characterized by immersive and disruptive daydreaming experiences, has become a focal point in psychological research due to its potential impact on mental health. This study explores the intricate relationship between maladaptive daydreaming and coping skills, utilizing well-established measures like the COPE inventory and the Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale. The COPE inventory assesses coping strategies, while the Maladaptive Daydreaming Scale quantifies maladaptive daydreaming severity. The review investigates how coping skills mediate the association between maladaptive daydreaming and mental health challenges. The study, conducted with 386 participants, presents a comprehensive analysis of coping styles, demographic factors, and their connections to maladaptive daydreaming. Findings reveal significant yet nuanced relationships, shedding light on potential interventions and support systems for individuals grappling with maladaptive daydreaming tendencies.
Cities as actors in the EU policy towards China
Authors: Kamiński Tomasz , Ciesielska-Klikowska Joanna , Gzik Michał 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

City diplomacy between EU and Chinese cities has become an increasingly significant layer of bilateral relations. The collaboration between cities is extensive and covers a wide range of thematic areas, with around half of the European cities having partnerships with Chinese counterparts, according to a survey of 745 cities. However, despite the commonality of these partnerships, our research has highlighted a disconnection between subnational relations and the upper levels of European policy. Despite some previous initiatives, local actors have not been effectively engaged in the EU policy-making. The European Parliament has called for greater coordination with sub-state actors, but this call has gone unanswered. The paper unpacks the city level of EU relations with China, showing its scope, patterns of cooperation, and potential impact. The authors present theoretical and empirical arguments to support the notion that city diplomacy should have a much more significant impact on EU policy towards China.