bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of simulation-based ultrasound education using a bladder simulator for medical students in Japan: a prospective observational study
Authors: Maita Hiroki , Kobayashi Tadashi , Akimoto Takashi , Hirano Takahiro , Osawa Hiroshi , Kato Hiroyuki 
Published: November 2022

Abstract
Purpose
This study aimed to investigate the usefulness of ultrasound education for medical students using a bladder simulator.

Methods
This prospective observational study included volunteer fifth- and sixth-year medical students. An intravesical urine volume measurement simulator and a pocket-sized hand-held ultrasound device were used. The ultrasound education comprised pre-learning, briefing, simulation, debriefing, and learning summary. The simulation consisted of two tests: bladder simulator cube evaluation and scenario-based clinical application. A self-rated confidence score of 0–10 points along with reasons for the scores was recorded before and after the ultrasound education.

Results
Twelve participants (median age, 23 years; female, 75%) met the inclusion criteria and were examined. Participants’ bladder simulator cube evaluation and scenario-based clinical application test results were good, and the educational difficulty level was appropriate. The mean confidence scores for main unit operation, probe control, image acquisition, image evaluation and clinical application before the ultrasound education were 1.0, 1.8, 1.3, 0.8 and 0.1 points, respectively. The mean confidence scores after the ultrasound education were 5.8, 5.9, 5.4, 5.5 and 5.1, respectively, with significant increases for all items (p < 0.01). The positive impression categories that affected confidence scores after ultrasound education were related to device operation, image acquisition, image evaluation, clinical application and learning.

Conclusion
Ultrasound education using a bladder simulator increases confidence scores by imparting competencies related to device operation, image acquisition, image evaluation and clinical application, and it improves students’ learning impression. This is a useful method for introductory ultrasound education for medical students.
Boundary Layer Height Characteristics in Mexico City from Two Remote Sensing Techniques
Authors: Burgos-Cuevas Andrea , Magaldi Adolfo , Adams David K. , Grutter Michel , García Franco Jorge L. , Ruiz-Angulo Angel 
Published: November 2022

AbstractThe Atmospheric Boundary Layer (ABL) height is a key parameter in air quality research as well as for numerical simulations and forecasts. The identification of thermally stable layers, often with radiosondes, has been a common approach for estimating ABL height, though with limited temporal coverage. Remote sensing techniques offer essentially continuous measurements. Nevertheless, ABL height retrievals from different methods can vary greatly when compared, which is particularly notable for topographically complex terrains, such as that surrounding Mexico City. This study, employing one year of data in Mexico City, reveals that the daytime convective boundary layer height (retrieved from Doppler lidar data) is typically lower than the aerosol layer height (retrieved from ceilometer data). Although both estimated heights evolved diurnally, the more elevated aerosol layer decays more slowly, suggesting that the mechanisms that elevate aerosols are not limited to convective motions. Additionally, both diurnal and seasonal variability are investigated, comparing remotely sensed-retrieved heights with thermally stable layers estimated from radiosonde data. Multiple stable layers often develop, those at higher levels have similar values to the ceilometer-retrieved heights, while stable layers at lower heights are similar to Doppler lidar height retrievals. The present research constitutes the first detailed analysis of ceilometer backscatter and Doppler lidar thresholding methods for estimating ABL height over Mexico City, and our results illustrate the complexity of mixing mechanisms on the ABL in this region of complex orography.
Contribution of silica-scaled chrysophytes to ecosystems services: a review
Authors: Lengyel Edina , Barreto Sára , Padisák Judit , Stenger-Kovács Csilla , Lázár Diána , Buczkó Krisztina 
Published: November 2022

AbstractSilica-scaled chrysophytes are a unique group of protists representing a major component of numerous aquatic habitats where they can significantly contribute to human well-being in many ways. In the present review, altogether 14 ecosystem services provided by silica-scaled chrysophytes were identified highlighting their importance and roles in aquatic ecosystems. The most important supporting services are related to primary production, nutrient- and biogeochemical cycling, as well as sediment formation. Additionally, they are involved in the regulation of climate, maintenance of air quality, biological control and water purification processes (as regulating services). The most relevant provisioning services include their usefulness in environmental monitoring (paleolimnology, ecological status assessment and climate modelling), production of biochemicals and provision of genetic resources. Cultural services are associated with aesthetic values, inspiration source and knowledge system as well. Although silica-scaled chrysophytes are one of the least studied groups of algae, here they are shown to provide important benefits and to have many further powerful opportunities for humans, thus their detailed research in the future is emphasised as an important key for human well-being.
On Non-ideal Chemical-Reaction Networks and Phase Separation
Authors: Miangolarra Ander Movilla , Castellana Michele 
Published: November 2022

AbstractMuch of the theory on chemical-reaction networks (CRNs) has been developed in the ideal-solution limit, where interactions between the solutes are negligible. However, there is a large variety of phenomena in biological cells and soft-matter physics which appear to deviate from the ideal-solution behaviour. Particularly striking is the case of liquid-liquid phase separation, which is typically caused by inter-particle interactions. Here, we revisit a number of known results in the domain of ideal CRNs, and we generalise and adapt them to arbitrary interactions between the solutes which stem from a given free energy. We start by reviewing the theory of chemical reaction networks, linking it to concepts in statistical physics. Then we obtain a number of new results for non-ideal complex-balanced networks, where the creation and annihilation rates are equal for all chemical complexes which appear as reactants or products in the CRN. Among these is the form of the steady-state probability distribution and Lyapunov functions for such networks. Finally, this allows us to draw a phase diagram for complex-balanced reaction-diffusion systems based on the minimisation of such Lyapunov function, with a rationale similar to that of equilibrium thermodynamics but for systems that may sustain non-equilibrium chemical currents at steady state. In addition, we show that for complex-balanced networks at steady-state, there are no diffusion currents.
Partially Hidden Markov Chain Multivariate Linear Autoregressive model: inference and forecasting—application to machine health prognostics
Authors: Dama Fatoumata , Sinoquet Christine 
Published: November 2022

AbstractTime series subject to regime shifts have attracted much interest in domains such as econometry, finance or meteorology. For discrete-valued regimes, models such as the popular Hidden Markov Chain (HMC) describe time series whose state process isunknownat all time-steps. Sometimes, time series are annotated. Thus, another category of models handles the case with regimesobservedat all time-steps. We present a novel model which addresses the intermediate case: (i) state processes associated to such time series are modelled by Partially Hidden Markov Chains (PHMCs); (ii) a multivariate linear autoregressive (MLAR) model drives the dynamics of the time series, within each regime. We describe a variant of the expectation maximization (EM) algorithm devoted to PHMC-MLAR model learning. We propose a hidden state inference procedure and a forecasting function adapted to the semi-supervised framework. We first assess inference and prediction performances, and analyze EM convergence times for PHMC-MLAR, using simulated data. We show the benefits of using partially observed states as well as a fully labelled scheme with unreliable labels, to decrease EM convergence times. We highlight the robustness of PHMC-MLAR to labelling errors in inference and prediction tasks. Finally, using turbofan engine data from a NASA repository, we show that PHMC-MLAR outperforms or largely outperforms other models: PHMC and MSAR (Markov Switching AutoRegressive model) for the feature prediction task, PHMC and five out of six recent state-of-the-art methods for the prediction of machine useful remaining life.
A Model Solution: On the Compatibility of Predictive Processing and Embodied Cognition
Authors: Kersten Luke 
Published: November 2022

AbstractPredictive processing (PP) and embodied cognition (EC) have emerged as two influential approaches within cognitive science in recent years. Not only have PP and EC been heralded as “revolutions” and “paradigm shifts” but they have motivated a number of new and interesting areas of research. This has prompted some to wonder how compatible the two views might be. This paper looks to weigh in on the issue of PP-EC compatibility. After outlining two recent proposals, I argue that further clarity can be achieved on the issue by considering a model of scientific progress. Specifically, I suggest that Larry Laudan’s “problem solving model” can provide important insights into a number of outstanding challenges that face existing accounts of PP-EC compatibility. I conclude by outlining additional implications of the problem solving model for PP and EC more generally.
Endoscopic endonasal approach for resection of a recurrent spheno-orbital meningioma resulting in complete resolution of visual symptoms: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Kim Won , Ghodrati Farinaz , Mozaffari Khashayar , Samarage H. Milan , Zhang Ashley B. , Pradhan Anjali , Lee Jivianne T. , Goldberg Robert A. , Yang Isaac 
Published: November 2022

Abstract
Purpose
Spheno-orbital meningiomas are rare tumors, accounting for up to 9% of all intracranial meningiomas. Patients commonly present with proptosis, and visual deficits. These slow growing tumors are hard to resect due to extension into several anatomical compartments, resulting in recurrence rates as high as 35–50%. Although open surgical approaches have been historically used for resection, a handful of endoscopic approaches have been reported in recent years. We aimed to review the literature and describe a case of spheno-orbital meningioma with severe vision loss which was resected with an endoscopic endonasal approach achieving complete resolution of visual symptoms.

Methods
A systematic review of literature was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases were queried for spheno-orbital meningiomas resected via an endoscopic endonasal approach. Furthermore, the presentation, surgical management, and post-operative outcomes of a 53-year-old female with a recurrent spheno-orbital meningioma are described.

Results
The search yielded 26 articles, of which 8 were included, yielding 19 cases. Average age at presentation was 60.5 years (range: 44–82), and 68.4% of patients were female. More than half of the cases achieved subtotal resection. Common complications associated with endoscopic endonasal surgery included CN V2 or CN V2/V3 hypoesthesia. Following surgical intervention, visual acuity and visual field remained stable or improved in the majority of the patients.

Conclusion
Endoscopic approaches are slowly gaining momentum for treatment of spheno-orbital meningiomas. Further studies on the clinical benefits of this approach on patient outcomes and post-operative complications is warranted.
MicroRNA152-3p Protects Against Ischemia/Reperfusion-Induced Bbb Destruction Possibly Targeting the MAP3K2/JNK/c-Jun Pathway
Authors: Li Fei , Zhou Fangfang , Yang Binbin 
Published: November 2022

AbstractIn the current study, we reported that overexpression of miR-152-3p effectively ameliorated neurological deficits and protected blood-brain barrier(BBB) integrity in middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) rats. In an in vitro model, the level of miR-152-3p was significantly decreased in bEnd.3 cells after oxygen–glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) insult. miR-152-3p overexpressing bEnd.3 cell monolayers were protected from OGD/R-induced microvascular hyperpermeability. The miR-152-3p-mediated protective effect was associated with lower apoptosis of endothelia by negatively modulating the MAP3K2/JNK/c-Jun pathway.
A systematic literature review to evaluate extended dosing intervals in the pharmacological management of acromegaly
Authors: Fleseriu M. , Zhang Z. , Hanman K. , Haria K. , Houchard A. , Khawaja S. , Ribeiro-Oliveira A. , Gadelha M. 
Published: November 2022

Abstract
Purpose
This systematic literature review investigated whether extended dosing intervals (EDIs) of pharmacological acromegaly treatments reduce patient burden and costs compared with standard dosing, while maintaining effectiveness.

Methods
MEDLINE/Embase/the Cochrane Library (2001–June 2021) and key congresses (2018–2021) were searched and identified systematic literature review bibliographies reviewed. Included publications reported on efficacy/effectiveness, safety and tolerability, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and patient-reported and economic outcomes in longitudinal/cross-sectional studies in adults with acromegaly. Interventions included EDIs of pegvisomant, cabergoline, and somatostatin receptor ligands (SRLs): lanreotide autogel/depot (LAN), octreotide long-acting release (OCT), pasireotide long-acting release (PAS), and oral octreotide; no comparator was required.

Results
In total, 35 publications reported on 27 studies: 3 pegvisomant monotherapy, 11 pegvisomant combination therapy with SRLs, 9 LAN, and 4 OCT; no studies reported on cabergoline, PAS, or oral octreotide at EDIs. Maintenance of normal insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) was observed in ≥ 70% of patients with LAN (1 study), OCT (1 study), and pegvisomant monotherapy (1 study). Achievement of normal IGF-I was observed in ≥ 70% of patients with LAN (3 studies) and pegvisomant in combination with SRLs (4 studies). Safety profiles were similar across EDI and standard regimens. Patients preferred and were satisfied with EDIs. HRQoL was maintained and cost savings were provided with EDIs versus standard regimens.

Conclusions
Clinical efficacy/effectiveness, safety, and HRQoL outcomes in adults with acromegaly were similar and costs lower with EDIs versus standard regimens. Physicians may consider acromegaly treatment at EDIs, especially for patients with good disease control.
Ag-(In-Bi) Solid–Liquid Interdiffusion Bonding
Authors: Kuziora Stéphane Léonard , Nguyen Hoang-Vu , Aasmundtveit Knut Eilif 
Published: November 2022

AbstractSolid–liquid interdiffusion is a metallurgical bonding technique, suitable for assembly of temperature sensitive materials. We identify Ag-(In-Bi) as meeting the low-temperature bonding requirements, theoretically as low as 73°C. This work focuses on understanding the bonding process and the interactions between the metal elements. Ag-(In-Bi) was bonded using an eutectic In-Bi foil at both 150°C and 180°C. The resulting bondlines were layered as Ag/Ag9In4/AgIn2/In-Bi compounds/AgIn2/Ag9In4/Ag. At some sections the phase growth of AgIn2 or Ag9In4 bridged the bond. Because of this bridging of γ-Ag9In4, temperature stability of ~480–570°C, is readily possible. The majority of the remaining Bi was located within large pockets near the middle of the bondline, and the minority as precipitates in protruding arms. Mechanisms for these Bi precipitates and intermetallic arm growth are discussed, and the evidence indicates that dissolution and surface planarity play important roles in their formation.
Built-in Flood Risk: the Intertwinement of Flood Risk and Unregulated Urban Expansion in African Cities
Authors: Andreasen Manja H. , Agergaard Jytte , Allotey Albert N. M. , Møller-Jensen Lasse , Oteng-Ababio Martin 
Published: November 2022

Abstract
Urban flood risk is significantly shaped by ground conditions and the built environment, which are constantly modified and transformed by human actions. This paper examines the intertwinement of flood risk and unregulated urban expansion processes in three selected sites in Accra’s expanding periphery. All three sites have been included in Accra’s urban extent since the 1990s, but differ with regard to the timing of development and socio-economic characteristics of residents. The research illuminates how flood risk is produced and “built-in” to the urban fabric through widespread practices associated with unregulated urban expansion processes, especially the persistent encroachment on water retention areas, wetlands and riparian zones and the highly fragmented provision of transport infrastructure in emerging residential areas in the periphery. Such harmful development practices are neither confined to homebuilders from poorer segments of the urban population nor spatially concentrated in low-income areas. The research highlights how the actions and inactions of a wide range of social groups and actors engaged in urban land administration and development contribute to flood risk in various ways, making flooding an increasingly alarming issue of citywide concern. Different stakeholders highlight fragmented urban governance as an underlying root cause for the obstruction of sustainable land and water management. Overall, the study calls for a more robust recognition of spatial planning and transport infrastructure provision in flood risk mitigation and highlights the urgent need for planning and governance practices that challenge the existing fragmentation of urban governance systems.
Improvement of angiographic and clinical outcomes of percutaneous coronary intervention for chronic total occlusion after implementation of a dedicated team: a single-centre experience
Authors: Polimac L. , van Leunen M. M. C. J. , van Steenbergen G. J. , Zelis J. M. , Eerdekens R. , van ’t Veer M. , Schulz D. N. , Wijnbergen I. F. , Vlaar P. J. , Teeuwen K. 
Published: November 2022

Abstract
Introduction
In a Dutch heart centre, a dedicated chronic total occlusion (CTO) team was implemented in June 2017. The aim of this study was to the evaluate treatment success and clinical outcomes before and after this implementation.

Methods
A total of 662 patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for a CTO between January 2013 and June 2020 were included and divided into pre– and post–CTO team groups. The primary endpoint was the angiographic success rate of CTO-PCI. Secondary endpoints included angiographic success stratified by complexity using the J‑CTO score and the following clinical outcomes: in-hospital complications and myocardial infarction, target vessel revascularisation, all-cause mortality, quality of life (QoL) and major adverse cardiac events (MACE) at 30-day and 1‑year follow-up.

Results
Compared with the pre–CTO team group, the success rate in the post–CTO team group was higher after the first attempt (81.4% vs 62.7%; p < 0.001) and final attempt (86.7% vs 73.8%; p = 0.001). This was mainly driven by higher success rates for difficult and very difficult CTO lesions according to the J‑CTO score. The MACE rate at 1 year was lower in the post–CTO team group than in the pre–CTO team group (6.4% vs 16.0%; p < 0.01), while it was comparable at 30-day follow-up (0.1% vs 1.7%; p = 0.74). Angina symptoms were significantly reduced at 30-day and 1‑year follow-up, and QoL scores were higher after 1 year.

Conclusion
This study demonstrated higher success rates of CTO-PCI and improved clinical outcomes and QoL at 1‑year follow-up after implementation of a dedicated CTO team using the hybrid algorithm.
Alluvial fans at Cala Gonone (Sardinia), a fast developing touristic village: origins, hazards and potential risks
Authors: Pascucci V. , Martini I. P. , Andreucci S. 
Published: November 2022

AbstractThe study area of Cala Gonone in NE Sardinia (Italy) consists of a wide terraced re-entrance/valley crowned inland by carbonate hills and, near the coast bounded laterally and partly floored by thin basaltic lava lying over carbonate bedrock. In this re-entrance, several inland alluvial fans (500 m length by 700 m wide) have developed, and a local ~ 30 m high, about 10 m wide (thick), 400 m long scarp body-remnant of semi-consolidated alluvial fan deposits is exposed along the coast. The fans experience depositional events mostly developed during the late Pleistocene. They although nowadays dormant may be reactivated by major rainstorms during strong climate changes. In these last few decades, the touristic village of Cala Gonone has been rapidly expanding over the mid to lower parts of two coalescing alluvial fans (Stadium and Gustui) and along the coastal marine scarp edge (Palmasera alluvial fan system). The village thus may become exposed to natural hazards if extreme climatic conditions may re-occur. Moreover, rock falls and the instability of the costal scarp due to wave erosion may add addition hazards for habitations built near the scarp crest and visitors to the frontal replenished beach. As commonly occurring elsewhere since antiquity, the risk perception of such events is low because of the centennial, millennial of longer recurrence. Such perception does not negate the hazards but a long event recurrence may be accepted as a reasonable risk for the human’s activity. Nevertheless, serious consideration should be given to potential problems and plan and build for amelioration and defense. The evidence of what environmentally did and could still happen in the Cala Gonone and similar other area is in part clearly imprinted on the landscape: geology, geomorphology, and relative details in the stratigraphy and sedimentology of the deposits.