bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Unusual masquerading infraorbital mass – First case report of human ocular Dirofilariasis found in an Ukrainian patient in Switzerland
Authors: Menna Feliciana , Billia Filippo , Papazoglou Anthia , Tschopp Markus , Grobholz Rainer 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
A 78-year-old Ukrainian woman immigrated to Switzerland presented with a rapid growing subcutaneous infraorbital mass. Surgical excision of the mass revealed a well-circumscribed, encapsulated tumor, adherent to the skin. The excision showed a soft tissue inflammation with parts of helminthozoonosis diagnosed as Dirofilaria repens. The number of cases of human Dirofilariasis reported in the last 50 years has gradually increased. Dirofilaria repens is now endemic in many countries and is currently considered to be one of the fast spreading zoonoses in Central, Eastern and Northern Europe. The first empirical evidence of Swiss spreading of Dirofilaria infections was in a dog from southern Switzerland in 1998. Ours is the first case of human orbital Dirofilariasis reported in Switzerland. Our purpose is to inform the ophthalmologist to consider orbital dirofilariasis in the differential diagnosis of inflammatory masses of the orbit and to warn about the spread of this infection in Switzerland.
Frequency lock-in control and mitigation of vortex-induced vibrations of an airfoil using a conserved-mass nonlinear vibration absorber
Authors: Basta Ehab , Gupta Sunit K. , Barry Oumar R 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
We investigate the effectiveness of a vibration absorber on the vortex-induced vibration response of turbine blades during the frequency lock-in phase. A reduced order model is considered for a turbine blade and a von der Pol oscillator is used to model fluid blade interaction caused by the vertex shedding. A spring-mass-damper system is considered to model the vibration absorber. The advantage of the vibration absorber is demonstrated by simulating the nonlinear coupled fourdegree-of-freedom aeroelastic system for the different sets of system parameters. We observe the dominance of a nonlinear vibration absorber over the linear vibration absorber only for the higher coupling parameter values. The analytical solution of the nonlinear coupled system is obtained through the method of multiple scales for the case of 1:1 internal resonance to identify the critical design parameters of the vibration absorber. We observe the high sensitivity of the system's frequency response towards the distance of the vibration absorber from the elastic axis, along with the absorber's damping, stiffness, and mass. Finally, we perform a parametric analysis on the lockin the stability region to better understand the effect of the vibration absorber on the instability region.
Prediction of groundwater levels by 2100 considering climate change based on precipitation and river stage
Authors: Kim Bokyung , Nam Donggun , Lee Junhwan 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Changes in GWL is an important consideration for establishing sustainable social infra system and disaster prevention. In this study, methodology for predicting future GWL is established based on the climate change scenario and adopted to predict GWL by year 2100. Deep neural network (DNN) and engineering groundwater level prediction model (EGPM) were adopted for precipitation- and river stage-dominant cases. Database of hydrological and geographical parameters was established and introduced into the prediction. It was shown that present and future GWLs were not the same, and the difference was most noticeable in near-river area. The increases in GWL by 2100 in Magok region was estimated around 1.8 m. The GWL in Jangwi and Hangdong regions indicated an increase around 0.18 m, implying that the increase in GWL would not be dramatically large, yet gradual increase is anticipated. All these indicated a tendency of higher GWL in future with magnitude depending on regional and locational conditions of target area. Predicted future GWL profiles were introduced into the 3D flow analysis program MODFLOW to establish a visual utilization of predicted GWL.
Elman neural network and equivalent circuit model based multi-measurement Kalman filters for SOC estimation
Authors: Shen Dezhi , Ding Jie , Hao Tianyun 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
This paper provides an insight into the estimation of state of charge (SOC) of lithium-ion batteries, and multi-measurement Kalman filters are constructed to achieve better estimation accuracy. The filter based estimation scheme consists of two sub Kalman filters, one based on the Thevenin equivalent circuit model and the other based on the Elman neural network model. They share the same state equation but have different measurements, namely from the terminal voltage and the Elman neural network, respectively. The optimal weighted error covariance matrix in Kalman filter is computed to obtain the final estimated SOC with the results from two sub filters. The training set of the experiment is from five mixed charging and discharging cycles and the test set is the LA92 driving cycle. The experimental results show that multi-measurement Kalman filtering has higher accuracy in SOC estimation, both the mean absolute error and the root mean square error are less than 0.3\%.
Research on Path Planning of UAV Swarm for Decapitation Strike
Authors: Zhang Zhihao , liu xiaodong , Feng Boyu 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Decapitation strike is an important part of modern war, which could achieve significant effect at a small cost. With the rapid improvement of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) swarm's ability to carry out reconnaissance and strike missions, this combat mission can be performed by UAV swarm instead of ground special forces or fighters. Based on the analysis of mission profiling, this article establishes the mission model and threat area model of decapitation strike. Then, combining Bézier curve with receding planning framework, an Optimized model for UAV swarm path planning under the condition of full coverage antiaircraft firepower is proposed. The simulation results show that the model and improved algorithm in this paper can effectively solve the path planning problem of UAV swarm in the face of full coverage threat. The research can make up for the defects of the traditional "Cross Gaps" path planning algorithm in solving the problem of crossing threat areas, and provide effective guidance for UAV swarm to perform the decapitation missions.
The gut microbiota mediates triptolide-induced liver injury via the gut-liver axis
Authors: Wang Yulin , Hu Yeqing , Liu Yuting , Zhang Haibo , Liu Xueying , Zhou Hua , Liu Chenghai , Yang Tao 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Triptolide (TP) is a toxic component of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. f. that exhibits liver and gastrointestinal toxicity. However, TP-induced liver injury varies between individuals via an unknown mechanism, which limits the safe clinical application of TP. Herein, we aimed to study the mechanism underlying the regulation of TP-induced liver injury via the gut-liver axis using a multi-omics technique. C57BL/6 mice were administered with TP at 800 µg/kg. We also constructed a mouse model based on the male C57BL/6 gut microbiota with quadruple antibiotics. 16S rRNA gene sequencing, hematoxylin and eosin staining, and biochemical analyses were used to analyze the intestinal microbiota composition in stool samples and TP-induced hepatotoxicity and enterotoxicity. Proteomics and targeted metabonomics were performed to analyze key proteins related to intestinal injury and differential liver metabolic markers. Gut microbiota Lactobacillus and Bacteroides were related to TP hepatotoxicity, while the Lactobacillus rhamnosus or Bacteroides fragilis colonization alleviated TP-induced liver and ileum damage after gut microbiota disorder. Multi-omics analyses showed that the TP caused changes in genes related to intestinal and liver immune responses. Gut microbiota disorder amplified related immune responses, causing changes in intestinal immune barrier-related proteins REG3B and REG3G and changes to liver metabolites via the gut-liver axis. Thus, the gut microbiota (via the gut–liver axis) plays an important role in liver injury induced by TP, allowing a better interpretation of TP-induced hepatotoxicity.
The Relationship between AQP1 Expression and Severity of Hydrocephalus in Rattus Norvegicus Strain Sprague-Dawley Rats
Authors: Januarman Januarman , Parenrengi Muhammad Arifin , Suryaningtyas Wihasto , Utomo Budi , Bajamal Abdul Hafid , Subagio Eko Agus 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Purpose: We evaluate the relationship between the severity of hydrocephalus and AQP­1 levels.
Methods: This research was conducted in an experimental research design. The research subjects were Rattus Norvegicus rats of the Sprague-Dawley strain which were injected with kaolin to create a hydrocephalus model. The study included 24 rats in total, which were divided into four groups of six each: the control group, and the hydrocephalus induction group on day 7, day 14, and day 21. AQP1 expression was then observed histopathologically by immunohistochemical staining and counted semi-quantitatively. The collected data were then compared and analyzed using SPSS software version 24.
Results: The average AQP1 expression increased with observation time in the hydrocephalus rat model on the 7th, 14th, and 21st days. The ANOVA test showed a significant difference between the four study groups (p=0.001). The correlation between the expression of AQP1 levels and the severity of hydrocephalus showed a statistically significant difference (p=0.000). The results showed an increase in the expression of AQP1 levels in the sub-ventricle zone with the higher severity of hydrocephalus.
Conclusion: The severity of hydrocephalus and AQP1 levels are correlated, with the latter being higher the more severe the degree of hydrocephalus.
Immune-related Signature of Periodontitis and Alzheimer’s disease linkage
Authors: Jin Jieqi , Guang Mengkai , Li Simin , Yan Xing , Liu Yong , Zhang Liwei , Zhang Bo , Cheng Menglin , Schmalz Gerhard , Huang Xiaofeng 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Background Periodontits (PD) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are both associated with ageing and clinical studies increasingly evidence their association. However, specific mechanisms underlying this association remain undeciphered, and immune-related processes are purported to play a signifcant role. The accrual of publically available transcriptomic datasets permits secondary analysis and the application of data-mining and bioinformatic tools for biological discovery.Aim The present study aimed to leverage publically available transcriptomic datasets and databases, and apply a series of bioinformatic analysis to identify a robust signature of immune-related signature of PD and AD linkage.Methods We downloaded gene-expresssion data pertaining PD and AD and identified crosstalk genes. We constructed a protein-protein network analysis, applied immune cell enrichment analysis, and predicted crosstalk immune-related genes and infiltrating immune cells. Next, we applied consisent cluster analysis and performed immune cell bias analysis, followed by LASSO regression to select biomarker immune-related genes.Results The results showed a 3 gene set comprising of DUSP14, F13A1 and SELE as a robust immune-related signature. Macrophages M2 and NKT, B-cells, CD4 + memory T-cells and CD8 + naive T-cells emerged as key immune cells linking PD with AD.Conclusion Candidate immune-related biomarker genes and immune cells central to the assocation of PD with AD were identified, and merit investigation in experimental and clinical research.
Beyond the five possibilities: Why was the international research in Darfur not submitted for ethical approval? A qualitative study
Authors: Hussein Ghaiath , Elmusharaf Khalifa 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Background We have conducted a systematic review of the eligible reports of the studies conducted in the war-roubles regions of Darfur, west Sudan between 2004 and 2012 and reported on the proportions of the studies that reported gaining ethical approval. The proportion of studies reporting ethical review was smaller than might be expected, so we suggest five explanations for these findings.Objective To examine whether the five possibilities we suggested in the previous review were a fair representation of the reasons why these studies did not report having ethical approval.Methods A qualitative case study was used that involved conducting interviews and focus groups with the relevant stakeholders, namely the representatives of the national and international non-governmental organizations, UN agencies, and the national humanitarian and research governance bodies in Sudan.Results 38 participants were involved (5 interviewees and 33 participants in the focus groups). The participants expressed a consensus on the need for an ethical oversight for research in the humanitarian settings in Sudan and particularly Darfur. However, there were eight reasons for not submitting the humanitarian research to ethical approval, which we are categorized under four main themes: I) lack consistency in defining research, II) time-related arguments and the low-risk nature of their studies, III) previous explicit or implied approval of the study or its used tools and IV) lack of awareness about or intention to apply for ethical review.Discussion We presented these themes and discussed both sides of each argument.Conclusion There is a need to revisit the mainstream ethical review governance mechanisms to meet the requirements of the humanitarian settings. Methodologically, this project provided additional insights and a model of how the qualitative methods can be used to complement our understanding of the quantitative data resulting from the systematic review alone.
Geopolymers based on Metakaolin reinforced with Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Brandão Daniele , Borges Paulo H. R. , Ludvig Peter , Colão Michelle 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Geopolymers offer an alternative to Portland cement, boasting high mechanical strength, as well as chemical and thermal durability. It is an inorganic polymer that has environmental advantages in its production, in addition to being considered a high-performance material. This study seeks to evaluate the mechanical properties of geopolymeric mortars reinforced with Carbon Nanotubes (CNT) as well as the method of incorporation into the mortar. CNTs are promising materials as reinforcements in geopolymeric matrices for the development of construction materials with specific applications aimed at better performance. The studied matrix results from the alkaline activation of metakaolin (MK) with sodium silicate and sodium hydroxide. CNTs were added in percentages of 0.1%, 0.3%, and 0.5% by mass of metakaolin. The evaluated properties for the resulting composite were compressive strength and flexural strength. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) tests were carried out to evaluate the dispersion of CNTs in MK (before activation). The results show that when well distributed in the matrix, CNTs promote an increase in compressive and flexural strength of the samples.
Bacillus altitudinis 1.4 genome analysis - functional annotation of probiotic properties and immunomodulatory activity
Authors: Jankoski Priscila Ribeiro , Bach Evelise , Fonseca Renata Nobre , Hübner Silvia , Carvalho Joseane Biso , Motta Amanda Souza da 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. They are often used to improve intestinal health. In this study, phenotypic and genotypic methods were used to evaluate the probiotic properties of Bacillus altitudinis 1.4. The isolate was sensitive to all tested antimicrobials and showed a positive result in the hemolysis test. The results also indicated that the spores of B. altitudinis 1.4 were more resistant than the vegetative cells, when evaluated in a simulation of cell viability in the gastrointestinal tract, as well as adhesion to the intestinal mucosa. The isolate was able to self-aggregate and coaggregate with pathogens such as Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Salmonella Enteritidis ATCC 13076. Genomic analysis revealed the presence of genes with probiotic characteristics, such as fglA-L, motA, motB, luxS, pgaA-D, exoX, epsG. From this study, it was possible to evaluate the gene expression of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines for different treatments. Viable vegetative cells of B. altitudinis 1.4 increased the transcription of pro-inflammatory factors, such as TNFα, NFkβ, TLR2, in addition to also increasing the transcription of IL-10, indicating a tendency to stimulate a pro-inflammatory profile. In view of the results presented, B. altitudinis 1.4 showed the potential to be applied in the incorporation of this microorganism in animal feed, since the spores could tolerate the handling and pelleting processes of the feed.
Economic Analysis of Wind Turbines in Oil and Gas Platforms: A Case Study
Authors: Yousefpour Khalegh , Abdalisousan Ashkan 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Diesel generators or gas turbines located in the platforms usually do electricity production in oil and gas platforms. Using the above equipment, taking into account safety issues to prevent explosions and fires, as well as fueling them offshore, will be very expensive. In addition, the mentioned devices emit a significant amount of CO2 and NOx. Therefore, the use of renewable energy instead of fossil fuels can be much more economical and environmentally friendly. This study attempts to investigate the potential of using wind energy in the Persian Gulf and the feasibility and detailed economic analysis of using wind turbines on oil and gas platforms to provide part of the energy required. For this purpose, wind speed data are extracted from measurements at 10 meters, 30 meters and 40 meters above the ground. Average wind speed for the mentioned levels as 4.45 m/s, 4.99 m/s and 5.34 m/s respectively. In addition, it gives the annual power density as 128.36 W/m2, 173.80 W/m2 and 210.42 W/m2. The results obtained by using RETScreen software show that in this project with a life span of 30 years, the economic output of wind turbine systems is profitable, so that after 8.2 years, the entire cost of the project will return.
Challenges to the implementation of a multi-level intervention to reduce mistreatment of women during childbirth in Iran: a qualitative study using the consolidated framework for implementation research
Authors: Mirzania Marjan , Shakibazadeh Elham , Babaey Farah , Hantoushzadeh Sedigheh , Khajavi Abdoljavad , Foroushani Abbas Rahimi 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Background: Mistreatment during childbirth is a growing concern worldwide, especially in developing countries such as Iran. In response, we launched a comprehensive implementation research (IR) project to reduce mistreatment during childbirth and enhance positive birth experience in the birth facilities. In this study, we identified the challenges of implementing a multi-level intervention to reduce mistreatment of women during childbirth using the consolidated framework for implementation research (CFIR).
Methods: An exploratory qualitative study involving thirty in-depth and semi-structured interviews was conducted between July 2022 and February 2023. Participants include a purposive sample of key informants at different levels of the health system (macro: Ministry of Health and Medical Education; meso: universities of medical sciences and health services; and micro: hospitals) with sufficient knowledge, direct experience and/or collaboration in the implementation of the studied interventions. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and coded using directed qualitative content analysis (CFIR constructs) in MAXQDA 18.
Results: The identified challenges were: (1) Individual level (childbirth preparation classes: e.g., adaptability, design quality and packaging, cosmopolitanism; presence of birth companion: e.g., patient needs and resources, structural characteristics, culture); (2) Healthcare provider level (integrating respectful maternity care into in-service training: e.g., relative priority, access to knowledge and information, reflecting and evaluating); (3) Hospital level (evaluating the performance of maternity healthcare providers: e.g., external policies and incentives, executing); and (4) National health system level (implementation of painless childbirth guidelines: e.g., networks and communications, knowledge and beliefs about the intervention, executing, reflecting and evaluating).
Conclusions: This study shows a clear understanding of the challenges of implementing a multi-level intervention to reduce mistreatment of women during childbirth; and highlights potential implications for policy makers and practitioners of maternal health programs. We encourage them to take the lessons learned from this study and revise in the implementation of their current programs and policies regarding the quality of maternity care by focusing on identified challenges.
Stakeholder Engagement in the Development of an Upper Extremity Outcome Measure for Children with Rare Musculoskeletal Conditions
Authors: Elfassy Caroline , Wagner Lisa , Higgins Johanne , Montpetit Kathleen , Snider Laurie , Dahan-Oliel Noemi 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Background Individuals with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) have upper extremity (UE) involvement in 73% of cases, yet no AMC specific outcome measure exists. When developing a measure specific to a population with a rare musculoskeletal condition, clinicians’ and patients’ perspectives and involvement is a crucial and necessary step. Therefore, this study determines the most clinically useful items for an outcome measures of UE function for children with AMC as defined by caregivers and clinicians.Methods To ensure the perspectives and needs of caregivers of children with AMC and clinicians were considered in the development of the UE measure for AMC, a Nominal Group technique (NGT) with caregivers of children with AMC (phase 1) followed by a three-round survey with clinicians (phase 2) were carried out.Results Phase 1: Eleven individuals participated in the nominal group technique and identified 32 items. The most important items were Picking up an object (n = 11), Eating (n = 10), Reaching mouth (n = 10), Getting out of bed (n = 10). Phase 2: Invitations to participate to an online survey was sent to 47 experts in the field of AMC, 20 participants completed round 1, 15 completed round 2 and 13 completed round 3. Throughout the survey, participants were asked about movement required to screen the UE, essential domains to be included in the measure, establishing a scoring guide and identifying tasks associated with joint motion and position.Conclusion A preliminary version of an UE AMC-specific outcome measure was developed with the help of caregivers’ perspectives and expert opinions.