bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Performance analysis of wireless compressed-image transmission over DST-based OFDMA systems
Authors: Al-Ashwal Nagi H. , Al Soufy Khaled A. M. , Al-Kamali Faisal S. , Swillam Mohamed 
Published: August 2023

AbstractMultimedia data, like images, consumes significant bandwidth when transmitted over wireless systems. Therefore, compressing transmitted images becomes crucial to reduce the required bandwidth and improve energy efficiency. This work aims to analyze the performance of transmitting wireless compressed images over a recent Discrete Sine Transform (DST)-Based Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (DST-OFDMA) system. It investigates the effectiveness of several image compression methods by determining the minimum Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) required for each method to achieve error-free image recovery at the receiver. This work considers different modulation schemes including 16QAM and QPSK, as well as different subcarrier mapping schemes (localized and interleaved) over vehicular A, SUI3, and uniform channels. Nine standard compression methods are used for analyzing the performance of the DST-OFDMA system and compared it with that of the conventional Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT)-based OFDMA (DFT-OFDMA) system. The results show that the performance of DST-OFDMA outperforms that of DFT-OFDMA, especially when QPSK modulation is used. Simulation results demonstrate that the interleaved DST-OFDMA (DST-IOFDMA) system, employing the SPIHT_3D compression method and QPSK modulation (over the SUI3 channel model), achieves the lowest SNR value required for compressed image recovery, approximately 18 dB. This indicates that the SPIHT_3D compression method exhibits lower power consumption compared to other methods as well as high bandwidth efficiency.
A Q-learning-based distributed queuing Mac protocol for Internet-of-Things networks
Authors: Wu Chien-Min , Chang Yu-Hsiu , Tsai Cheng-Tai , Hou Cheng-Chun 
Published: August 2023

AbstractMany previous studies showed that some nodes should be in a sleeping state while the traffic is high. These nodes can wake up periodically to transmit data while they have data to transmit. The system throughput will be increased while each node can change between wake-up and sleeping states periodically. If a node can estimate the active rate and wake up at the optimal time, the collision probability decreases. This study proposes a Q-learning-based distributed queuing medium access control (QL-based DQMAC) protocol for Internet-of-Things (IoT) networks. In the proposed QL-based DQMAC, we derive the optimal number of contention IoT nodes. Each node calculates the active rate by itself through the Q-learning algorithm. Then, each node determines whether it will be active or in sleeping mode in the next contention period according to the active rate. Finding the optimal IoT nodes in each contention period decreases the probability of collision. The energy consumption due to the contention and delay for MAC contention is reduced owing to the lower number of contentions. Protocol comparison with other DQMAC protocols shows that the proposed QL-based DQMAC protocol achieves higher performance in IoT networks.
A qualitative study of interest in and preferences for potential medications to treat methamphetamine use disorder
Authors: Wagner Karla D. , Marks Charles , Fiuty Phillip , Harding Robert W. , Page Kimberly 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Introduction
We examined acceptability of and preferences for potential medications for treating methamphetamine use disorder (MUD) among people who use methamphetamine and examined how benefits and drawbacks of methamphetamine use affect perceived acceptability and preferences.

Methods
We conducted qualitative interviews as part of a larger study in 2019–2020. The interview assessed patterns of substance use (including methamphetamine), benefits and drawbacks of methamphetamine use, and interest in a medication to treat MUD. Analysis used an inductive thematic approach, guided by three primary questions: (1) would participants be interested in taking a potential medication for MUD?; (2) what effects would they would like from such a medication?; and (3) what would their ideal treatment route and schedule be (e.g. daily pill, monthly injection)?.

Results
We interviewed 20 people reporting methamphetamine use in the past 3 months (10 from Reno, Nevada, USA and 10 from Rio Arriba County, New Mexico, USA). Seven used exclusively methamphetamine, while thirteen used other substances in addition to methamphetamine. Most were enthusiastic about a potential medication to treat MUD. Of those who were not interested (n = 5), all indicated no current concerns about their methamphetamine use. Perceived functional benefits of methamphetamine use (i.e., energy, counteracting opioid sedation, and improved social and emotional wellbeing) informed preferences for a replacement-type medication that would confer the same benefits while mitigating drawbacks (e.g., psychosis, hallucinations, withdrawal). Opinions on preferred dosing varied, with some preferring longer acting medications for convenience, while others preferred daily dosing that would align with existing routines.

Conclusion
Participants were excited about a potential for a medication to treat MUD. Their preferences were informed by the functional role of methamphetamine in their lives and a desire to maintain the stimulant effects while mitigating harms of illicit methamphetamine. Treatment outcomes that emphasize functioning and wellbeing, rather than abstinence, should be explored.
The impact of methamphetamine use on medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) treatment retention: a scoping review
Authors: Russell Cayley , Law Justine , Imtiaz Sameer , Rehm Jürgen , Le Foll Bernard , Ali Farihah 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
An emerging public health threat of methamphetamine/opioid co-use is occurring in North America, including increases in overdoses related to concomitant methamphetamine/opioid use. This presents a potential risk to established treatments for opioid use disorder (i.e., medications for opioid use disorder [MOUD]). To date, few studies have examined the impact of methamphetamine use on MOUD-related outcomes, and no studies have synthesized data on MOUD retention.

Methods
A scoping review was undertaken to examine the impact of methamphetamine use on MOUD retention. All original published research articles were searched in Embase, MEDLINE, PsychINFO, CINAHL, Scopus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and Cochrane Protocols, and Google scholar databases. Data were extracted into a standardized data extraction chart. Findings were presented narratively.

Results
All eight included studies demonstrated an increased likelihood of treatment discontinuation or dropout among patients enrolled in MOUD who used methamphetamine. The frequency of methamphetamine use was also associated with MOUD dropout, in that those who used methamphetamine more often were more likely to discontinue MOUD. The definitions and measurements of MOUD retention varied considerably, as did the magnitude of effect size.

Conclusions
Results indicate that methamphetamine use has an undesirable impact on MOUD retention and results in an increased risk of treatment discontinuation or dropout. Strategies to identify concurrent methamphetamine use among individuals engaging in MOUD and educate them on the increased risk for dropout should be undertaken. Further research is needed to understand how MOUD retention among patients with concomitant opioid and methamphetamine use can be improved.
Evaluation of the QuEChERS extraction approach for the analysis of active compounds of pharmaceuticals in olive tree portions
Authors: Brunetti Gennaro , Traversa Andreina , De Mastro Francesco , Dichio Bartolomeo , Mottola Francesca , Mininni Alba N. , Nigro Pietro , Cocozza Claudio 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
A modified version of the QuEChERS (Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe) method has been tested for quantifying six active compounds of pharmaceuticals (PhACs), i.e., two different antibiotics, two anti-inflammatories, one antifungal, and one anti-depressant, extracted from roots, leaves and stems, pulp, pits, and oil obtained from olive trees. The different matrices have been polluted with all contaminants at 25, 50, and 250 µg L−1 and the recoveries were determined by liquid chromatography tandem–mass spectrometry. The validation of the method has been carried out by determining linearity, recovery, precision, limits of detection (LODs), and limits of quantification (LOQs) values. A matrix-matched calibration for each matrix has been adopted in order to avoid the matrix effect at the aforementioned levels of fortification.

Results
The recoveries of PhACs from the different matrices were always above 70% and the relative standard deviation (RSD) always ≤ 20%, conditions required for the validation of the method. The LOD and LOQ values were always lower than 25 µg L−1, i.e., always lower than the minimum concentration used in the experiment; therefore, the method can be validated at 25, 50, and 250 µg L−1.

Conclusions
This method can represent a valid alternative to the traditional extraction methods to quantify pharmaceuticals extracted also from fatty matrices.

Graphical Abstract
First report of inhibitory abilities of dark septate endophytic fungi against white root rot disease on Hevea brasiliensis seedlings in nursery conditions
Authors: Dalimunthe Cici Indriani , Surono  , Soekarno Bonny Poernomo Wahyu , Al-Ani Laith Khalil Tawfeeq , Munif Abdul , Sriherwanto Catur , Nurdebyandaru Nicho 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
The dark septate endophytes (DSE) are endophytic and non-mycorrhizal fungi with the ability to impact and control some plant pathogens and promote plant growth. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of five different DSE fungal isolates in controlling white root rot disease (WRRD) caused by the plant pathogen, Rigidoporus microporus in Hevea brasiliensis in a nursery system. There are no previous reports on the role of DSE in controlling WRRD. In this study, the efficacy of five DSE isolates, including Acrocalymma vagum SBTBMDS 1, Clonostachys chloroleuca TMDS 2.1, Lasiodiplodia theobromae APDS 3.2, Penicillium oxalicum TMDS 3.2, and Fusarium falciforme TBMDS 2.4b, was tested for their ability to reduce the severity of WRRD in vivo.

Results
The results showed that all the DSE isolates were able to inhibit R. microporus, leading to a decrease in the disease severity of WRRD, with percentages ranging from 7.50 to 17.5% and percentage of disease inhibition from 57.67 to 83.33% than the controls, which had a severity percentage of 45%. The TMDS3.2 isolate showed high efficacy in increasing the girth (137%) and height (63.3%) of H. brasiliensis seedlings, while the isolates of P. oxalicum TMDS 3.2 and F. falciforme TMDS 2.4b enhanced the dry weight (123 and 122%, respectively) than the control. Two isolates of P. oxacilum TMDS 3.2 and C. chloroleuca TMDS 2.1 increased the root volume (120 and 107%, respectively) than the control. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis showed the ability of three selected DSE isolates, L. theobromae APDS 3.2, F. falciforme TBMDS 2.4b, and P. oxacilum TMDS 3.2, to produce acetic acid butyl methyl-phosphinoylmethyl ester and ethanone, 1-(4-methyl-1H(imidazol-2-yl)—that previously reported as antimicrobials.

Conclusion
This study demonstrated that DSE fungal isolates had the potential to act as a biocontrol agent against R. microporus in H. Brasiliensis seedlings. In the future, the findings of this study could be utilized to prevent WRRD, one of the most serious problems in rubber plantations, in an environmentally friendly way by reducing the usage of fungicides.
Endophytic establishment of native Bacillus thuringiensis strain in maize plants and its efficacy against Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Karshanal J. , Kalia Vinay K. 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is known as the most successful microbial insecticide worldwide used against lepidopteran insect pests in agriculture. Native Bacillus isolate VKK5 showing insecticidal activity against Spodoptera frugiperda (FAW) (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) was characterized as B. thuringiensis (BtVKK5) on a morphological and molecular basis. Recent research has shown that Bt can be established as an endophytic organism for controlling insect pests. The present work aimed at assessing the colonization of BtVKK5 as an endophyte in five maize cultivars by seed treatment (ST), soil drenching (SD), foliar application (FA) and combination of all methods (ST + SD + FA) and its bioefficacy against neonates of FAW.

Results
Establishment of inoculated BtVKK5 as endophytes in five maize cultivars, viz. Pusa HQPM7 Improved, Pusa Jawahar Hybrid Maize 1, Pusa Vivek Hybrid 27 Improved (PVH27I), Pusa HQPM5 Improved and DMRH 1301, was confirmed by re-isolating from the leaves of the plant on ampicillin-selected agar plates. Estimation of colony-forming units per gram of leaf showed that there was a significant difference in colonization of the Bt strain among maize cultivars by different inoculation methods. The colonies were further substantiated by the amplification of cry1A and cry1E genes. Bioefficacy studies showed the highest mortality (50%) in the ST + FA + SD inoculation method, followed by ST (40%) in PVH27I. Moreover, growth inhibition was observed in survived larvae on inoculated plants vis-a-vis control.

Conclusion
Establishment of Bt strain as an endophyte in maize plants, complemented with insecticidal activity, could possibly lead to an innovative approach to the management of S. frugiperda and other borers.
Psychopathology of antisocial personality disorder: from the structural, functional and biochemical perspectives
Authors: Wong Rebecca Shin-Yee 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) is characterized by a lack of empathy, a sense of guiltlessness and shamelessness, as well as impulsiveness. ASPD is a relatively common psychiatric condition in the general population, whereas individuals with ASPD often have substantial social impairments and a lower quality of life, especially for those who have mental comorbidities. This review gives an overview of the etiological and clinical aspects of ASPD and critically examines ASPD from the structural, functional and biochemical perspectives.

Results
Twin and family studies showed genetic predisposition in ASPD. Some candidate genes associated with ASPD include SLC6A4, COMT, 5-HTR2A, TPH1, DRD2, OXTR, CACNG8, COL25A1 and several serotonergic genes. Environmental factors like adverse childhood experience (ACE) and active empathy deficits in toddlerhood play a role in the etiology of ASPD, whereas low intelligence or attainment, a large family size, a convicted parent, a disrupted family, and a young mother are predictors of antisocial personality. Structural abnormalities involving the corpus callosum, amygdala, putamen, anterior cingulate cortex, as well as orbitofrontal- and dorsolateral frontal cortices have been identified in ASPD. Other observed structural changes include a decrease in grey matter volume, whole-brain volume, and white matter volume and thickness. In addition, functional abnormalities involving autonomic activity, prefrontal functions, as well as brain functional networks like sensorimotor networks, cognitive networks and cortico-striatal connectivity have been reported. Biochemical factors associated with ASPD include fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) reduction in the amygdala, as well as changes in plasma levels of inflammatory biomarkers and neurotropic factors [namely, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin 10 (IL-10), transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BNDF). Increased plasma levels of testosterone, ghrelin and cortisol and decreased levels of leptin have also been implicated in ASPD.

Conclusions
To date, there is no Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved drugs for ASPD. Understanding the disease from different perspectives is important, as this provides insights into the underlying mechanisms of ASPD, whereas the associated biochemical markers can be used as potential diagnostic and treatment targets for ASPD.
Plasma D-dimer as a biomarker for the early classification of common acute ischemic stroke subtypes in Indonesia
Authors: Akbar Muhammad , Damayanti Fitri , Tammasse Jumraini , Bintang Andi Kurnia , Aulina Susi , Soraya Gita Vita 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
D-dimer is a well-known marker for abnormal hemostasis in acute ischemic stroke (AIS), indicating the presence of fibrin degradation due to thrombus formation and lysis. The diagnostic performance of D-dimer for different AIS types in the Indonesian population has not been established. The aim of this study is to compare the plasma D-dimer levels in three of the most common AIS subtypes in Indonesia; the cardioembolic, large artery atherosclerosis (LAA), and small-vessel occlusion (SVO), and to determine its most optimal diagnostic performance.

Results
In this cross-sectional study, 64 subjects with confirmed AIS diagnosis at the Wahidin Sudirohusodo General Hospital Makassar between June and October 2019 were recruited. Plasma D-dimer levels were measured and grouped according to the subtype of acute ischemic stroke based on the TOAST classification. A significant difference was observed between the D-dimer levels across the three AIS subtypes, with an average D-dimer of 2.93 ± 1.7, 1.27 ± 0.81, and 0.56 ± 0.46 µg/ml in the cardioembolic, LAA, and SVO subtypes, respectively. As a marker of cardioembolic stroke, an optimal cut-off was determined to be 1.52 µg/ml, yielding a sensitivity of 84.44% (CI 71.22–92.25% and specificity of 84.21% (CI 62.43–94.48%).

Conclusion
Plasma D-dimer levels varied significantly between the cardioembolic, LAA, and SVO subtypes of AIS, with the highest D-dimer level in the cardioembolic subtypes. As a marker of cardioembolic stroke, an optimal cut-off was determined to be 1.52 µg/mL, yielding a sensitivity and specificity of 84.44% and 84.21%, respectively.
Successful management by employing situational extracorporeal membrane oxygenation strategies in a patient with acute type A aortic dissection: a case report
Authors: Suzuki Kengo , Yoshida Keisuke , Hakozaki Takahiro , Tanaka Shiori , Inoue Satoki 
Published: August 2023

Abstract
Background
We successfully treated a case of acute type A aortic dissection in a patient with acute inferior wall infarction as well as severe circulatory and respiratory disorders.

Case presentation
A 69-year-old woman was diagnosed with acute type A aortic dissection. She received emergency partial aortic arch replacement and coronary artery bypass grafting. After the cardiopulmonary bypass, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) with central cannulation was performed due to severe right heart failure and extensive alveolar hemorrhage. Since the surgery, transesophageal echocardiography was used to monitor her hemodynamic status. The positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) was managed based on end-expiratory transpulmonary pressure. Replacement of the ECMO circuit was required every 2–3 days due to intra-circuit thrombus, and continuous renal replacement therapy was started on postoperative day (POD) 8. On POD 13, improvement of cardiac function was observed; we therefore attempted closure of the chest and conversion to veno-venous (V-V) ECMO. However, the patient’s hemodynamics were unstable due to diastolic impairment after the chest closure; thus, peripheral veno-arteriovenous (V-AV) ECMO was introduced. The patient was converted to V-V ECMO on POD 16 and weaned from ECMO on POD 17. The patient was extubated on POD 19. She left the intensive care unit with non-invasive ventilation on POD 20.

Conclusions
The favorable outcome in the current case can be attributed to the following three points: (1) appropriate ECMO strategies were employed according to the patient’s condition, (2) the patient’s lung condition improved due to transpulmonary pressure monitoring and fluid balance management from an early stage, and (3) we observed respiratory and hemodynamic status during the 50–90-s circulatory arrest periods that occurred during ECMO circuit changes, and this observation contributed to the evaluation of weaning from ECMO.
Diagnostic accuracy of B-mode, Doppler ultrasound, strain elastography, and 2D shear wave elastography in differentiation between benign and malignant lymphadenopathy
Authors: Abd-Elmageed Mohamed Kamel , Ibrahim Sahar Gamal , Zawawi Mohammed Salah Eldeen El 
Published: August 2023

AbstractBackgroundConventional ultrasound is used as an imaging modality for differentiation between benign and malignant lymph nodes, but with different accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity between different studies. A biopsy is the gold standard diagnosis modality but has a drawback due to its invasive nature. In general, metastatic lymph nodes present with a higher stiffness than benign lymph nodes, so ultrasound elastography could be used as an imaging modality for lymphadenopathy differentiation based on its ability to assess tissue stiffness. However, more studies should be done to assess its accuracy. Therefore, we aimed to assess the accuracy of B-mode, Doppler ultrasound, strain elastography, and 2D shear wave elastography criteria in differentiation between benign from malignant lymph nodes.MethodsA cross-sectional study included 60 patients with lymphadenopathy. B-mode, Doppler ultrasound, strain elastography, and 2D shear wave elastography criteria were assessed for accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity compared to the final histopathological diagnosis, whether by core biopsy, fine needle aspiration, or excision biopsy.ResultsWe assessed 60 patients in our study (20 benign and 40 malignant). Of these ultrasound criteria that achieved statistical significance, the highest accuracy was for elasticity ratio 88.9%, followed by strain ratio 83.8%. Also, the highest specificity was for an elasticity ratio of 80%, followed by strain score and strain ratio of 75% and 70%, respectively. Cortical asymmetry achieved the highest sensitivity, 100%, followed by strain ratio and elasticity ratio, with a sensitivity of 90% and 87.5%, respectively. However, cortical asymmetry had an extremely low specificity of 25%.ConclusionsUltrasound elastography criteria achieved higher accuracy compared to conventional ultrasound. So it can be used as an effective imaging modality to differentiate between benign and malignant lymph nodes.