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Due to centralized storage, centralization problems are common in machine learning model training and invocation, which makes train data and trained models extremely vulnerable to tampering and stealing. A safe framework for training and invoking models called ISC-MTI (IPFS (InterPlanetary File System) and Smart Contract-Based Method for Storage and Invocation of Machine Learning Mobel) is proposed in this paper. The framework uses IPFS as the storage solution, EOS (Enterprise Operation System) blockchain as the smart contract platform, RSA and AES as the implementation of encrypted communication. The Action responsible for invoking the training data and trained models in the smart contract and the model training, uploading, and invoking methods are designed. The experimental results demonstrate that ISC-MTI can improve the safety of model training and invocation with losing a little efficiency. Simultaneously, ISC-MTI can provide anti-theft model capabilities, traceability, tamper resistance, reliability, and privacy for the process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vegetation phenology reflects the temporal dynamics of vegetation growth and is an important indicator of climate change. However, differences consistently exist in land surface phenology derived at different spatial scales, which hinders the understanding of phenological events and integration of land surface phenology products from different scales. The Qinling Mountains are a climatic and geographical transitional region in China. To better understand the spatial scale effect issues of land surface phenology in mountainous ecosystems, this study up-scaled vegetation start of season (SOS) and end of season (EOS) in the Qinling Mountains derived from three different Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) products to four scales (i.e., 2 km × 2 km, 4 km × 4 km, 6 km × 6 km, and 8 km × 8 km) using the spatial averaging method. Then, similarities and differences between the up-scaled SOSs/EOSs were examined using the simple linear regression, cumulative distribution function, and absolute difference. Finally, the random forest model was used to reveal the major factors influencing the spatial scale effect of land surface phenology in Qinling Mountains. Results showed that the derived basic SOS/EOS datasets using the same filtering method from the 250 m and 500 m NDVI datasets were consistent in spatial distribution, while the results from the 1000 m NDVI dataset differed. For both the basic and the up-scaled datasets, the land surface phenology derived from the Savitzky-Golay-filtered NDVI showed an advance in SOS, but a delay in EOS, compared to those derived from the asymmetric Gaussian- and double logistic-filtered NDVI. The up-scaled SOS was greatly impacted by both NDVI resolution and the filtering methods. On the other hand, EOS was mostly impacted by the filtering methods. Moreover, up-scaled SOSs usually had larger differences compared to up-scaled EOSs. While different filtering methods sometimes amplified the absolute differences between different SOS/EOS across scales, the upscaling reduced the differences. Influence factor analysis showed that spatial variations observed in SOS in Qinling Mountains were mainly caused by forest cover, uneven distribution of spring precipitation, and annual precipitation, while spatial variations in aspect, winter temperature, and autumn precipitation all strongly influenced the observed EOS across scales in the study area. These findings enhance our understanding of the effects of observational scale on vegetation phenology in mountain ecosystems and provide a reference for phenology modeling in mountainous areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The biplanar whole body imaging system (EOS) is a new tool for measuring the whole body sagittal alignment in a limited space. This tool may affect the sagittal balance of patients compared to conventional whole spine X-ray (WSX). This study aimed to investigate the difference in sagittal alignment between WSX and EOS. Materials and Methods: We compared the spinal and pelvic sagittal parameters in 80 patients who underwent EOS and WSX within one month between July 2018 and September 2019. The patients were divided based on sagittally balanced and imbalanced groups according to pelvic tilt (PT) >20°, pelvic incidence-lumbar lordosis >10°, C7-sagittal vertical axis (SVA) > 50 mm in WSX. Results: In the sagittally imbalanced group, compared to WSX, the pelvic parameters demonstrated compensation in EOS with smaller PT (27.4±11.6° vs. 24.9±10.9°, p=0.003) and greater sacral slope (SS), and the patients tended to stand more upright with smaller C7-SVA (58.4±17.0 mm vs. 48.9±57.3 mm, p=0.018), T1-pelvic angle (TPA), T5-T12, and T2-T12. However, in the sagittally balanced group, these differences were less pronounced only with smaller PT (10.8±6.9° vs. 9.4±4.7°, p=0.040), TPA and T2-T12 angle, but with similar SS and C7-SVA (p>0.05). Conclusion: EOS showed a negative SVA shift and lesser PT compared to WSX, especially in patients with sagittal imbalance. When preparing a surgical plan, surgeons should consider these differences between EOS and WSX. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To clarify the impact of restriction of hip extension on radiographic whole-body sagittal alignment with using postoperative changes of radiographical parameters for hip osteoarthritis. Methods: We prospectively enrolled 68 patients with hip osteoarthritis scheduled for arthroplasty. Variables included manual examination of hip range of motion (H-ROM) and radiographic whole-body sagittal alignment parameters including sagittal vertical axis (SVA), center of acoustic meatus and femoral head offset (CAM-HA), thoracic kyphosis (TK), lumbar lordosis, sacral slope (SS), and knee flexion angle (KF). We divided patients with preoperative hip extension angle < 0 into the extension restriction (ER) + group and ≥ 0 into the ER− group. Differences in H-ROM, radiographic parameters between groups and postoperative changes were comparatively analyzed. Results: Fifty-seven patients (The ER + group included 28 patients and the ER− group included 29 patients.) were available for the analysis. Pre-/postoperative H-ROM were 99.7 ± 24.9/118.1 ± 16.0 degrees (p <.01). Greater increases in SVA (5.4 ± 3.4 vs 3.4 ± 2.8 cm, p =.02) and in CAM-HA (3.9 ± 3.9 vs 2.8 ± 3.4 cm, p = 013) were found in the ER + group versus ER− group. Postoperatively, the ER + group showed an increase in TK (pre-/postoperative: 35.2 ± 9.7/37.4 ± 8.8 degrees, p =.04) and decreases in SS (36.5 ± 9.6/33.7 ± 9.9 degrees, p <.01) and KF (9.5 ± 7.0/6.9 ± 6.0 degrees, p =.02). Postoperative changes in radiographic parameters in the ER− group were not significant. Conclusion: Patients with restriction of hip extension showed global spine imbalance, and significant changes in TK, SS, and KF were observed after arthroplasty. The presence of hip joint disorder and H-ROM restriction must be considered when evaluating spinopelvic alignment and whole-body sagittal alignment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) is a marker of type 2 airway inflammation. Tobacco exposure can lower FeNO levels. However, the effect of acute tobacco exposure on FeNO in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is unclear. This study aimed to investigate the relationship of acute tobacco exposure with FeNO and eosinophils in COPD patients., Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 445 patients with COPD based on the 2007-2012 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Serum cotinine levels were examined to assess environmental tobacco smoke exposure. The patients were divided into five groups based on cotinine levels: Q1 (first quintile), Q2 (second quintile), Q3 (third quintile), Q4 (fourth quintile) and Q5 (fifth quintile). Logistic regression models and linear logistic regression models were used to evaluate the relationship between serum cotinine and FeNO and EOS levels., Results: Approximately 16.5 % (75/445) of the participants had elevated FeNO (>25 bbp). In the unadjusted model, COPD patients with the lowest quintile of serum cotinine levels (0.011-0.0185 ng/mL) had higher FeNO levels compared to those with the highest quintile (≥309 ng/mL) (odds ratios (OR), 5.86 [2.11-16.20]). These findings remained consistent even after adjusting for covariates of demographics, lifestyle, diabetes, coronary heart disease, tumours, hypertension, using oral or inhaled steroids within 2 days, asthma and respiratory symptoms within 7 days. Furthermore, a standard deviation increase of ln-transformed cotinine levels was associated with decreased FeNO levels (OR, 0.45 [0.33, 0.60]). No significant correlation was observed betweenserum cotinine and blood eosinophils. After high extents of tobacco exposure, no correlation was found between FeNO and eosinophils. Our findings indicate that high cotinine levels are associated with decreased FeNO in COPD patients but not with blood eosinophils. This reveals that smoking may affect FeNO levels in patients with COPD, whereas it does not appear to influence blood eosinophil levels., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest There is no conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Objective Serum levels of vitamin D (VitD), total immunoglobulin E (tIgE) and eosinophil ratio (EOS%) in children with atopic dermatitis (AD) were measured in order to determine the relationship between VitD and AD, and its immunoregulatory role in AD. Methods Serum samples were collected from 120 patients with AD and 60 healthy controls. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was performed to detect the serum levels of 25(OH)D in the AD and controls, and the total serum IgE levels in the AD group. Blood cell analyzer was used to determine the proportion of blood eosinophils in the AD group. Results The serum level of 25(OH)D was significantly lower in the AD group (62.99±17.38) nmol/L than that in the healthy controls (72.44±18.07) nmol/L(t=2.92, P

Background: Sepsis is a major cause of mortality and morbidity in neonates. With the improvement in health care standards, the incidence of neonatal Early Onset Sepsis (EOS) has reduced significantly. A recent Web-based EOS-calculator has been introduced with the aim to reduce the use of IV antibiotics in neonates. The role of the EOS-calculator has yet to be ascertained in this regional Special Care Nursery (SCN) in Western Australia. This study aims at examining the local incidence of culture proven EOS and the role of the EOS calculator. Method: It is a retrospective study examining all newborns ≥35 weeks gestation throughout 2019 (Jan–Dec 2019) who received IV-antibiotics. The local incidence of culture-proven EOS was established and applied onto the EOS calculator. The recommended management by the EOS-calculator was cross-examined with the local EOS guideline. Overall proportion of reduction in IV antibiotics use was formulated. Other relevant laboratory data extracted was analysed with Pearson's correlation test with the EOS scores. Results: Total included sample was n = 252 with an annual birth of 1880s indicating 13.4% of all neonates born throughout year 2019 was treated with IV antibiotics. The local incidence of culture-proven EOS was 0.5/1000. By applying the EOS-calculator, a significant reduction of IV antibiotics usage from 13.4% to 3.9% (z value 10.4, p

The World-Class University/Hanyang Project launched in Korea in 2008 led to what is now called the “pseudo-conformal model” that addresses dense compact star matter and is confronted in this short note with the presently available astrophysical observables, with focus on those from gravity waves. The predictions made nearly free of parameters by the model involving “topology change” remain more or less intact “un-torpedoed” by the data.

Regulatory T (Treg) cells play an important role in immune tolerance and contribute to the prevention of autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The differentiation, function and stability of Treg cells is controlled by members of the Ikaros zinc finger transcription factor family. In this study, we aimed to reveal how the expression of Ikaros transcription factors is affected by disease activity in RA. Therefore, we analyzed the ex vivo expression of Ikaros, Helios, Aiolos and Eos in Treg cells, Th17 cells and Th1 cells from RA patients by flow cytometry. We found significantly reduced expression of Helios, Aiolos and Eos in Treg cells from RA patients as compared to healthy controls. Moreover, Helios and Aiolos levels correlated with disease activity, as assessed by DAS28-CRP. In addition, Ikaros, Helios and Aiolos were significantly downregulated in Th1 cells from RA patients, while no difference between healthy individuals and RA was observed in Th17 cells. In summary, Helios and Aiolos expression in Treg cells correlates with disease activity and the expression levels of Ikaros transcription factors are diminished in Treg cells from RA patients. This observation could explain the reduced stability of Treg cells in RA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It was previously shown that the antitumor and cytotoxic activity of the essential oil (EO) extracted from the aerial parts of Glandora rosmarinifolia appears to involve a pro-oxidant mechanism in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell lines. Its most abundant compound is a hydroxy-methyl-naphthoquinone isomer. Important pharmacological activities, such as antitumor, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and antiparasitic activities, are attributed to naphthoquinones, probably due to their pro-oxidant or electrophilic potential; for some naphthoquinones, a mechanism of action of topoisomerase inhibition has been reported, in which they appear to act both as catalytic inhibitors and as topoisomerase II poisons. Our aim was to evaluate the cytotoxic activity of the essential oil on an acute myeloid leukemia cell line HL-60 and on its multidrug-resistant (MDR) variant HL-60R and verify its ability to interfere with topoisomerase II activity. MTS assay showed that G. rosmarinifolia EO induced a decrease in tumor cell viability equivalent in the two cell lines; this antitumor effect could depend on the pro-oxidant activity of EO in both cell lines. Furthermore, G. rosmarinifolia EO reduced the activity of Topo II in the nuclear extracts of HL-60 and HL-60R cells, as inferred from the inability to convert the kinetoplast DNA into the decatenated form and then not inducing linear kDNA. Confirming this result, flow cytometric analysis proved that EO induced a G0-G1 phase arrest, with cell reduction in the S-phase. In addition, the combination of EO with etoposide showed a good potentiation effect in terms of cytotoxicity in both cell lines. Our results highlight the antitumor activity of EO in the HL-60 cell line and its MDR variant with a peculiar mechanism as a Topo II modulator. Unlike etoposide, EO does not cause stabilization of a covalent Topo II-DNA intermediate but acts as a catalytic inhibitor. These data make G. rosmarinifolia EO a potential anticancer drug candidate due to its cytotoxic action, which is not affected by multidrug resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the experimental equations of state (EOS) of the parameters reported in the literature, in the present work, we reproduced the variation in the unit cell volume up to phase transition pressure for calcium- based chalcogenide CaX (X = S, Se, Te) semiconductor materials. We also studied the high-pressure effect on the crystal density, isothermal bulk modulus, the first order pressure derivative of the isothermal bulk modulus, and the Grüneisen parameter for CaX (X = S, Se, Te) binary compounds. It was found that, as the pressure increases, both the crystal density and the isothermal bulk modulus increase, while the first order pressure derivative of the bulk modulus and the Grüneisen parameter decrease gradually for all materials of interest. Similar behaviors of all these parameters against pressure were observed for several materials in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blockchain is a new methodology to handle multiple business issues, financial issues, health issues, and so on. A few years ago the trust-less computerized cash Bitcoin is now a trustworthy technique because of the block chain. Blockchain has consequently spread past its fundamental explanation as a creating number of associations and accomplices. Blockchain is considered the development to be a promising strategy for tending to existing business difficulties and upset mature endeavors. This study contemplates the reputation of square chain development to those of related signs of progress, for instance, computerized monetary standards and Bitcoin. The objective of this exploration is to decide the current situation with blockchain innovation in writing, as well as the significant examination and application regions where the square chain can be beneficial. As demonstrated by this survey, the blockchain's assurance, security, and decentralization give immense benefits to a wide extent of fields and focuses. This article likewise uncovers that blockchain research has recently started, with a couple of humble investigations in ventures like the Internet of Things, energy, banking, medical services, and government, all of which stand to benefit lopsidedly from its execution. One computerized record is a blockchain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy oil reserves in the world represent 5.5 trillion barrels, which are equivalent to five times the conventional crude oil reserves. Heavy oil reserves will be the main petroleum source for the world's future demand for energy. To enhance the recovery of heavy oil/bitumen, solvent‐based recovery seems to be one of the most promising alternatives to costly thermal methods. Phase behaviour studies of light gases in heavy oil are therefore very important when designing surface facilities and for enhanced oil recovery operations. In this study, we present solubility data for carbon dioxide and ethane in Lloydminster heavy oil. Measurements were carried out using a microbalance at 290.2, 298.2, and 313.2 K and at pressures varying from 200–2000 kPa. Experimental data were regressed with the Peng‐Robinson (PR) equation of state. We also report results of the fractionation of the heavy oil and its characterization in terms of SARA (saturates, aromatics, resins, and asphaltenes) fractions. Henry's law constants for gaseous solvents were also regressed and reported. As expected, ethane had a higher solubility than CO2 in the heavy oil at all temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The well-known perturbed-chain-statistical-association-fluid-theory (PC-SAFT) EoS was employed to model CO2 and H2S absorption in some protic ammonium-based ionic liquids, including Methyl-diethanol-ammonium Formate, Methyl-diethanol-ammonium Acetate, Dimethyl-ethanol-ammonium Formate, and Dimethyl-ethanol-ammonium Acetate. In this way, all the acidic gases and the ILs were considered as associative compounds so that they can establish hydrogen bonding by their own or other molecules. Accordingly, 4C, 2B, and 1A association schemes were assumed for H2S, the ILs, and CO2, respectively. Moreover, to estimate the liquid phase concentrations, a complex formation reaction (CFR) approach was followed. In this concept, acidic gases are supposed to form chemical complexes with the ILs. To show the importance of the reactions, the solubilities were calculated with and without using them, and the achieved results were compared. As the outputs show, considering the reactions, the excellent overall AADs% equal to 1.38 and 0.17 were obtained for H2S and CO2 absorption, respectively. While without them, these values were about 5.05 and 8.57. In the second part of the work, the viscosity of the used ILs was estimated through a new approach that combines the free-volume-theory (FVT) and the PC-SAFT, CPA, and mSRK EoSs. Accordingly, the density of the ILs computed using the EoSs, and then FVT was applied to estimate the dynamic viscosity. Based on the outputs, all the EoSs illustrate good ability to calculate viscosities, precisely, so that all the models present AAD% of about 2.5. This is because of the high ability of the FVT to obtain a precise estimation of viscosity using a rough estimation of the density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a new approach based on the effect of molecular diffusion on oil recovery during CO2 injection in naturally fractured reservoirs has been proposed to examine the best condition for oil recovery in the matrix block. A homogeneous matrix block from one of Iran’s naturally fractured reservoirs has been investigated. The matrix block is filled with oil and connate water surrounded by fractures filled with injection gas from the top, bottom and right side. In which matrix block oil saturation and behavior of matrix block from inside for specific time are examined simultaneously. Sensitivity analyses on the matrix block at different saturation pressures showed first the positive effect of increasing saturation pressure could be seen when diffusion was involved. Secondly, as the pressure increased, the side of recovery changed from the top to the bottom just absolutely more effective when we had diffusion in the system. Third, gravity drainage at lower saturation pressures was dominant for 2 cases with and without diffusion and at higher saturation pressures capillary force becomes more involved.

Abstract Background One of the values determined during the assessment of knee issues is the posterior tibial slope (PTS). A new option for measuring the PTS is the EOS 3D imaging system, which provides anteroposterior (AP) and lateral long leg radiographs (LLRs) using less radiation than a conventional LLR. We investigated the reliability of the EOS 3D imaging system with respect to PTS measurements. Methods We retrospectively searched our radiological database for patients who underwent an EOS scan and a computed tomography (CT) scan of their lower extremities between January and December 2019. Fifty-six knees were included in the study. Medial and lateral PTSs were determined using both modalities. A radiologist and an orthopaedic surgeon each performed all measurements twice and the intraclass correlation (ICC) was calculated to assess inter- and intrarater reliability. The Student t test and Pearson correlation were used to compare the results of both imaging modalities. Results The mean medial PTS was 8.5° (95% confidence interval [CI], 8.1–8.9°) for the EOS system and 7.7° (95% CI, 7.3–8.1°) for CT, and the lateral PTS was 7.4° (95% CI, 6.9–7.9°) for the EOS system, and 7.0° (95% CI, 6.5–7.4°) for CT. Interrater reliability (ICC) with respect to medial and lateral PTSs measured on the EOS (0.880, 0.765) and CT (0.884, 0.887) images was excellent. The intrarater reliability of reader 1 (ICC range, 0.889–0.986) and reader 2 (ICC range, 0.868–0.980) with respect to the same measurements was excellent. Conclusion The PTS measurements from the EOS 3D imaging system are as reliable and reproducible as those from CT, the current gold standard method. We recommend using this system if possible, because it acquires more information (sagittal plane) in a scan than a conventional LLR, while exposing the patient to less radiation. Level of evidence Level III, Retrospective cohort study

The present study investigates the structural stability and adsorption behavior of ultrahigh CO 2 -loaded pure-silica zeolites chabazite (CHA) and ITQ-12 (ITW) under high pressure conditions. To analyze these properties, we have utilized in situ synchrotron-based X-ray powder diffraction techniques. Lattice indexation provides information of the filling process and, through Rietveld refinements and Fourier recycling methods, we have been able to (i) determine the location and amount of guest carbon dioxide molecules within the cavities of pure-SiO 2 CHA zeolite and (ii) tentatively determine that within the channels of the porous pure-SiO 2 ITW framework. The filling of the zeolite pores with CO 2 molecules was found to have a positive impact on the structural stability of both CHA and ITW under compression, which do not undergo pressure-induced amorphization up to 12.2 GPa and 15.9 GPa, respectively. Interestingly, low compressibility takes place in CHA zeolite below 4 GPa during CO 2 loading and a second-order phase transition occurs in CO 2 -filled ITW zeolite at 2.1 GPa. These results highlight the influence of CO 2 adsorption on the compressibility behavior of these zeolites. Overall, our study provides detailed insights into the structural behavior of CO 2 -loaded CHA and ITW under high pressure and allows comparison with other pure silica zeolites described in the literature. [Display omitted] • Ultrahigh CO 2 filling in the zeolite pores preventing pressure-induced amorphization. • CHA zeolite exhibits low compressibility below 4 GPa during the accommodation of CO 2. • A second-order phase transition occurs in CO 2 -filled ITW zeolite at 2.1 GPa. • Determined location and quantity of guest CO 2 molecules within the zeolite pores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract MAGnetic Expansion Control (MAGEC) rods are used in the surgical treatment of children with early onset scoliosis. The magnetically controlled lengthening mechanism enables rod distractions without the need for repeated invasive surgery. The CE certification of these devices was suspended in March 2021 due, primarily, to performance evidence gaps in the documents provided by the manufacturer to regulators and notified bodies. MAGEC rods are therefore not permitted for use in countries requiring CE marking. This was a survey of 18 MAGEC rod surgeons in the UK about their perception of the impact of the CE suspension on the clinical management of their patients. Unsurprisingly, virtually all perceived a negative impact, reflecting the complexity of this patient group. Reassuringly, these surgeons are highly experienced in alternative treatment methods. Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2022;3(2):155–157.

We have designed an experiment for the National Ignition Facility to measure the Hugoniot of materials such as plastic at extreme pressures. The design employs a strong spherically converging shock launched through a solid ball of material using a hohlraum radiation drive. The shock front conditions can be characterized using X-ray radiography until background from shock coalescence overtakes the backlit signal. Shock coalescence at the center is predicted to reach tens of Gbars and can be further characterized by measuring the X-ray self-emission and 2.45 MeV neutrons emitted from the shock flash region. In this simulation design work the standard plastic sphere is replaced with a deuterated polyethylene sphere, CD2, that reaches sufficiently high densities and temperatures in the central hot spot to produce neutrons from Deuterium-Deuterium (DD) fusion reactions that can be measured by a neutron time of flight spectrometer (nTOF) and act as a temperature diagnostic. This paper focuses on the design of these experiments, based on an extensive suite of radiation-hydrodynamics simulations, and the interpretation of the predicted DD neutron signals. The simulations predict mean temperatures of 1 keV in the central hot spot with mean densities of 33 g/cc and mean pressures of 25 Gbar. A preliminary comparison with early experimental results looks promising with an average ion temperature of 1.06 ± 0.15 keV in the central hot spot estimated from the nTOF spectral width and measured neutron yield of 7.0 (±0.5) × 109 DD neutrons.

In this study, we investigate the FRW model in the Chern–Simons modified gravity framework, considering holographic dark energy and Kaniadakis holographic dark energy models. Employing the field equation of Chern–Simons gravity, it is analyzed some important cosmological parameters such as density, equation of state, and deceleration parameters for both models. Our findings, presented visually through graphs, reveal that holographic dark energy places the equation of state within ω ∈ (− 1 , − 0. 4) , while Kaniadakis holographic dark energy spans ω ∈ (− 0. 8 , − 0. 4). These results demonstrate the dynamic nature of dark energy's influence. Our study highlights the interplay of quintessence and Λ CDM across cosmic eras. We identify the ranges of q ∈ (− 0. 89 , − 0. 86) and q ∈ (− 0. 9925 , − 0. 9922) for Kaniadakis holographic dark energy and holographic dark energy, offering insights into their roles in cosmic inflation which implies that the universe attributes are impacted by both quintessence and the Λ CDM model in Chern–Simons modified gravity. In addition, this study implies that the universe's expansion is decelerating in its current state. • In this study, we investigate the FRW model in the Chern-Simons modified gravity framework, considering holographic dark energy and Kaniadakis holographic dark energy models. • We analyzed some important cosmological parameters such as density, equation of state, and deceleration parameters for both models. • Our findings, the equation of state within ω ∈ (− 1 , − 0. 4) , while Kaniadakis holographic dark energy spans ω ∈ (− 0. 8 , − 0. 4). These results demonstrate the dynamic nature of dark energy's influence. • The Kaniadakis holographic dark energy predicted cosmic inflation which implies that the universe attributes are impacted by both quintessence and the Λ CDM model. • In addition, this study implies that the universe's expansion is decelerating in its current state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we present new experimental data of vapor–liquid equilibrium for the binary system difluoromethane (R32) + 1,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene (R1234ze(E)), measured at 273.14 and 363.32 K and at pressure ranging from 0.1568 to 4.3553 MPa. A "static-analytic"-type apparatus is used to do the measurements, with sampling of the equilibrium phases via capillary sampler (ROLSI®). We used three different models to correlate the data: 1) the Peng–Robinson cubic equation of state combined with the NRTL excess free energy model and Wong-Sandler mixing rules, 2) Helmholtz energy model like the one incorporated in REFPROP 10.0 software and 3) Predictive PPR78 model for which the new group parameter of R32 was adjusted. All of the three models show a very good agreement with the experimental data except for temperature higher that R32 critical temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Spinal deformities in children can be caused by various etiologies, such as congenital, syndromic, neuromuscular, or idiopathic. Early-onset scoliosis (EOS) is diagnosed before the age of ten years, and when the curvature continues to progress and exceeds a Cobb angle of 60–65 degrees, surgical treatment should be considered. Initial minimally invasive surgery and the implantation of magnetically controlled growing rods (MCGRs) allows for the noninvasive distraction of the spine, growing, and avoids multiple operations associated with the classic distractions of standard growing rods. Case presentation: A 2-year-old girl was admitted to our clinic with rapidly progressive thoracic scoliosis. The major curve of the thoracic spine Cobb angle was 122° at 30 months. No congenital deformities were detected. The surgical technique was the less-invasive percutaneous and subfascial implantation of MCGRs, without long incisions on the back and the non-invasive ambulatory lengthening of her spine over the next 4 years. Conclusions: MCGR is a safe procedure for EOS patients. It is extremely effective at correcting spinal deformity; controlling the growth and curvature of the spine as the child develops during growth; reducing the number of hospitalizations and anesthesia; and minimizing the physical and mental burden of young patients, parents, and their families.

The 2019 GINA guidance incorporates the presence of T2 inflammation in severe asthma patients to determine eligibility for add-on biologic therapy, though little data exists to characterize this population. The objective of this manuscript is to conduct a descriptive analysis to characterize patients with severe asthma in emerging countries based on disease severity, patient exacerbation history, and T2 phenotype. A cross-sectional survey of physicians treating asthma patients ages 12 years and older was conducted in eight countries. Physicians characterized their severe asthma patients and reported data from their patients' medical charts. Medical chart data was selected from the physicians' six most recent asthma patients taking prescription medication. A total of 550 physicians completed the survey and filled out 3,300 patient record forms. A total of 876 patients have been characterized with uncontrolled severe asthma. Of the 420 patients with available EOS lab data, 40% are indicated with T2 inflammation (EOS ≥150/µL). Ninety-one percent of all patients with available IgE lab data (n = 498) had IgE 30 − 1500 IU/mL indicating allergy-driven asthma. Finally, chronic OCS use (as reported by physicians) was reported in 11% of patients. This research revealed that 65% of patients had at least one of three T2 inflammation comorbidities assessed: allergic rhinitis, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, and atopic dermatitis. Discrepancies were observed between patients' treatment regimens and GINA step reported, suggesting there may be room to improve understanding of asthma severity as defined per GINA guidelines as well as asthma control assessment in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the dramatic increase of greenhouse gases concentration in atmosphere, especially of carbon dioxide, determined many researchers to investigate new mitigation options. Thermodynamic studies play an important role in the development of new technologies for reducing the carbon levels. In this context, our group investigated the phase behavior (vapor–liquid equilibrium (VLE), vapor–liquid–liquid equilibrium (VLLE), liquid–liquid equilibrium (LLE), upper critical endpoints (UCEPs), critical curves) of binary and ternary systems containing organic substances with different functional groups to determine their ability to dissolve carbon dioxide. This study presents our results for the phase behavior of carbon dioxide + n-butanol structural isomers binary systems at high-pressures. Liquid–vapor critical curves are measured for carbon dioxide + isobutanol and carbon dioxide + tert-butanol binary systems at pressures up to 147.3 bar, as only few scattered critical points are available in the literature. New isothermal vapor–liquid equilibrium data are also reported at 363.15 and 373.15 K. New VLE data at higher temperature are necessary, as only another group reported some data for the carbon dioxide + isobutanol system, but with high errors. Phase behavior experiments were performed in a high-pressure two opposite sapphire windows cell with variable volume, using a static-analytical method with phases sampling by rapid online sample injectors (ROLSI) coupled to a gas chromatograph (GC) for phases analysis. The measurement results of this study are compared with the literature data when available. The new and all available literature data for the carbon dioxide + isobutanol and carbon dioxide + tert-butanol binary systems are successfully modeled with three cubic equations of state, namely, General Equation of State (GEOS), Soave–Redlich–Kwong (SRK), and Peng–Robinson (PR), coupled with classical van der Waals mixing rules (two-parameter conventional mixing rules, 2PCMR), using a predictive method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Equilibrium ratios for the mixture of different components are very important for many engineering application processes. Different numerical methods were explored and applied to ensure efficient estimation of gas-liquid equilibrium ratio. In this paper, the Artificial Neural Network (ANN) approach along with data of experiments performed on 25 gas condensate reservoirs has been utilized to obtain a relationship of gas-liquid equilibrium ratios in gas condensate reservoirs. The relationship between the gas-liquid equilibrium ratio and parameters of components of a mixture (critical temperature, critical pressure, and acentric factor) has been derived. Finally, the results of ANN have been compared to the proposed correlations in the literature and results of the equation of state. This investigation demonstrated that the result of ANN is more precise than the equation of state and existing empirical correlations. Whereas comparison between experimental data of 3 gas condensate samples by ANN, EOS, and existing empirical correlation show that the average absolute error for ANN was between 7.82 to 13.74% and for others was between 29.99 to 94.99%.

Retrospective review of data from a multicenter spine registry showed that in idiopathic 8- to 11-year-old early onset scoliosis patients, posterior spinal fusion (PSF), vertebral body tethers (VBT), and magnetically controlled growing rods control scoliosis effectively and lead to similar spinal height gain. PSF and VBT patients reduced the hazard of unplanned surgeries and showed improvements in quality of life. Study Design.: Retrospective review of prospective data from multicenter registry. Objective.: Compare outcomes of posterior spinal fusion (PSF) versus magnetically controlled growing rods (MCGR) versus vertebral body tethers (VBT) in 8- to 11-year-old idiopathic early onset scoliosis (EOS) patients. Summary of Background Data.: In EOS, it is unclear at what age the benefit of growth-sparing strategies outweighs increased risks of surgical complications, compared with PSF. Methods.: One hundred thirty idiopathic EOS patients, 81% female, aged 8–11 at index surgery (mean 10.5 yrs), underwent PSF, MCGR, or VBT. Scoliosis curve, kyphosis, thoracic and spinal height, complications, and Quality of Life (QoL) were assessed preoperatively and at most recent follow-up (prior to final fusion for VBT/MCGR). Results.: Of 130 patients, 28.5% received VBT, 39.2% MCGR, and 32.3% PSF. The VBT cohort included more females (P  < 0.0005), was older (P  < 0.0005), more skeletally mature (P  < 0.0005), and had smaller major curves (P  < 0.0005). At follow-up, scoliosis curve corrected 41.1 ± 22.4% in VBT, 52.2 ± 19.9% in PSF, and 27.4 ± 23.9% in MCGR (P  < 0.0005), however, not all VBT/MCGR patients finished treatment. Fifteen complications occurred in 10 VBTs, 6 requiring unplanned surgeries; 45 complications occurred in 31 MCGRs, 11 requiring unplanned surgeries, and 9 complications occurred in 6 PSFs, 3 requiring unplanned revisions. Cox proportional hazards regression adjusted for age, gender, and preoperative scoliosis curve revealed that MCGR (hazard ratio [HR] = 21.0, 95% C.I. 4.8–92.5; P  < 0.001) and VBT (HR = 7.1, 95% C.I. 1.4–36.4; P  = 0.019) patients were at increased hazard of requiring revision, but only MCGR patients (HR = 5.6, 95% C.I. 1.1–28.4; P  = 0.038) were at an increased hazard for unplanned revisions compared with PSF. Thoracic and spinal height increased in all groups. QoL improved in VBT and PSF patients, but not in MCGR patients. Conclusion.: In older idiopathic EOS patients, MCGR, PSF, and VBT controlled curves effectively and increased spinal height. However, VBT and PSF have a lower hazard for an unplanned revision and improved QoL. Level of Evidence: 3 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most critical medical conditions occurring after preterm birth is neonatal sepsis, a systemic infection with high rates of morbidity and mortality, chiefly amongst neonates hospitalized in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU). Neonatal sepsis is categorized as early-onset sepsis (EOS) and late-onset sepsis (LOS) regarding the time of the disease onset. The accurate early diagnosis or prognosis have hurdles to overcome, since there are not specific clinical signs or laboratory tests. Herein, a need for biomarkers presents, with the goals of aiding accurate medical treatment, reducing the clinical severity of symptoms and the hospitalization time. Through nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) based metabolomics, we aim to investigate the urine metabolomic profile of septic neonates and reveal those metabolites which could be indicative for an initial discrimination between the diseased and the healthy ones. Multivariate and univariate statistical analysis between NMR spectroscopic data of urine samples from neonates that developed EOS, LOS, and a healthy control group revealed a discriminate metabolic profile of septic newborns. Gluconate, myo-inositol, betaine, taurine, lactose, glucose, creatinine and hippurate were the metabolites highlighted as significant in most comparisons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The volatiloma of four Helichrysum species (H. anomalum, H reflexum, H. retortum and H. rugulosum) was analysed here for the first time by GC-MS for a chemotaxonomic contribution to this genus. Sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (SHs) prevailed in the aroma profile (VOCs) of H. reflexum, H. rugulosum and H. anomalum (74.7%, 93.6% and 41.6%, respectively), even though the main compounds were different (β-caryophyllene, α-humulene and α-copaene, respectively). The VOCs of H. retortum showed a high percentage of aliphatic hydrocarbons (NTs, 77.7%) mainly represented by octyl ether. The essential oil composition of each of H. rugulosum and H. retortum followed the same trend as VOCs related to the main class (SHs and NTs, respectively). In H. reflexum EO, the SHs were replaced by oxygenated sesquiterpenes (OS, 49.0%) with caryophyllene oxide as the main compound, while in H. anomalum the SHs were swapped in NTs (37.3%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Design: A radiographic comparative study.Objective: To investigate the influence of radiographic lower limb-spinal length proportion on sagittal radiographic parameters.Summary Of Background Data: Although lordotic realignment of the lumbar spine is a well-established surgical strategy, its ideal target has not been fully understood. The widely used pelvic incidence-lumbar lordosis discrepancy (PI-LL) method to guide lordotic restoration of the lumber spine in the standing posture, may be further refined using the novel, radiographic lower limb-spinal length proportion parameter in selected subjects.Methods: A 100 healthy subjects were imaged in the standing posture using EOS imaging to obtain whole-body lateral radiographs for the measurement of sagittal radiographic parameters. Univariate analyses were performed to compare radiographic parameters between groups with different radiographic lower limb-spinal length proportion. Multivariate analyses were performed to identify the associations between lower limb-spinal length proportions and other radiographic parameters.Results: Regardless of lower limb-spinal length proportion (mean = 1.4), global lumbar angle (GLA) differed from spinal lordosis (SL), with the absolute means of SL and GLA larger and smaller than pelvic incidence (PI) respectively. Univariate analysis showed that patients with proportionately larger lower limb-spinal length proportion are more likely to have larger mean T1-slope, global thoracic angle (GTA), spinal kyphosis (SK), GLA, and SL. Multivariate analysis showed that a larger lower limb length-spinal length proportion is predictive of larger GLA is less than -47.69° (Odds Ratio (OR) 2.660, P = 0.026), and larger T1-slope of more than 18.84° (OR 3.695, P = 0.012).Conclusion: Larger radiographic lower limb-spinal length proportion results in naturally accentuated spinal curves. These patients balance with a larger lumbar lordosis that is closer to the PI and a higher T1-slope which should be considered for spinal realignment. SL differs from GLA and should be separately assessed.Level of Evidence: 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: The medial distal tibial angle (MDTA) is used for measurement of ankle alignment. Standard to measure MDTA is weightbearing mortise view. EOS imaging becomes more popular for limb alignment analysis using low-dose radiation. As MDTA might vary in EOS, comparison between both radiographic techniques has been performed.Methods: MDTA was compared between both techniques in 43 cases by defining the mechanical tibial axis in different ways (X-ray low, EOS low, EOS high). For each method MDTA, intra- and interobserver reliability has been compared.Results: The correlation between the different methods were measured by ICC (intraclass coefficient) and were ICC 0.86 (X-ray low/EOS low), ICC 0.85 (X-ray low/EOS high) and ICC 0.97 (EOS low/EOS high). Intra- and interobserver reliability were in each case ICC > 0.95.Conclusion: ICC showed a substantial to excellent agreement between all methods. EOS is appropriate to determine MDTA and can be used for assessment of coronar deformities of the distal tibia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Free-hand pedicle screw insertion methods are widely used for screw insertion during scoliosis surgery. Preoperative knowledge about the pedicle size helps to maximize screw containment and minimize the risk of pedicle breach. Radiographs taken by a biplanar low-dose X-ray device (EOS) have no divergence in the vertical plane. The criterion validity and reliability of preoperative EOS images for pedicle size measurements in patients with idiopathic scoliosis (IS) was investigated in this study. Methods: Sixteen patients who underwent surgical treatment for IS were prospectively included. Intra- and extracortical pedicle height and width measurements on EOS images were compared with reconstructed intra-operative 3D images of the isthmus of included pedicles. Secondly, intra- and interobserver reliability of pedicle size measurements on EOS images was determined. Results: The total number of analyzed pedicles was 203. The correlation between the EOS and 3D scan measurements was very strong for the intra- and extracortical pedicle height and strong for the intra- and extracortical pedicle width. There are, however, significant, but likely clinically irrelevant differences (mean absolute differences < 0.43 mm) between the two measure methods for all four measurements except for extracortical pedicle height. For pedicles classified as Nash–Moe 0, no significant differences in intra- and extracortical pedicle width were observed. Both intra- and interobserver reliability was excellent for all pedicle size measurements on EOS images. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate a good validity and reliability for pedicle size measurements on EOS radiographs. Therefore, EOS radiographs may be used for a preoperative estimation of pedicle size and subsequent screw diameter in patients with IS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neutron stars are like nuclear physics laboratories, providing a unique opportunity to apply and search for new physics. In that spirit, we explored novel concepts of nuclear physics studied in a neutron star environment. Firstly, we investigated the reported 17 MeV boson, which has been proposed as an explanation to the 8Be, 4He and 12C anomaly, in the context of its possible influence on the neutron star structure, defining a universal Equation of State. Next, we investigated the synthesis of hyper-heavy elements under conditions simulating the neutron star environment.

The current research was conducted to extract the bioactive compounds from citrus waste and assess their role in the development of functional foods to treat different disorders. The scientific name of citrus is Citrus L. and it belongs to the Rutaceae family. It is one of the most important fruit crops that is grown throughout the world. During processing, a large amount of waste is produced from citrus fruits in the form of peel, seeds, and pomace. Every year, the citrus processing industry creates a large amount of waste. The citrus waste is composed of highly bioactive substances and phytochemicals, including essential oils (EOs), ascorbic acid, sugars, carotenoids, flavonoids, dietary fiber, polyphenols, and a range of trace elements. These valuable compounds are used to develop functional foods, including baked products, beverages, meat products, and dairy products. Moreover, these functional foods play an important role in treating various disorders, including anti-aging, anti-mutagenic, antidiabetic, anti-carcinogenic, anti-allergenic, anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and cardiovascular-protective activity. EOs are complex and contain several naturally occurring bioactive compounds that are frequently used as the best substitutes in the food industry. Citrus essential oils have many uses in the packaging and food safety industries. They can also be used as an alternative preservative to extend the shelf lives of different food products.

Within the scope of the Symmetry journal special issue on: “The Nuclear Physics of Neutron Stars”, we complemented the nuclear equation of state (EoS) with a hypothetical 17 MeV boson and observed that only instances with an admixture of 30%–40% satisfy all of the constraints. The successful EoS resulted in a radius of around 13 km for a neutron star with mass MNS≈1.4M⊙ and in a maximum mass of around MNS≈2.5M⊙. The value of the radius is in agreement with the recent measurement by NICER. The maximum mass is also in agreement with the mass of the remnant of the gravitational wave event GW190814. Thus, it appears that these EoSs satisfy all of the existing experimental constraints and can be considered as universal nuclear equations of state.

Study Design: Retrospective cohort study on prospectively implemented EOS protocol.Objective: This study aims to audit and compare existing radiological definitions of gaze direction - Chin Brow Vertical Angle (CBVA), McGregor's Slope (McGS), Slope of Line of Sight (SLS), Orbital-Internal Occipital Protuberance (OIOP) slope angle and Tangent to the Hard Palate (THP) in a neutral, healthy and asymptomatic cohort.Summary Of Background Data: The ability to accurately define direction of gaze is the first step when striving for horizontal gaze restoration in any affected individual with rigid sagittal deformity. Yet, the radiological definition of gaze direction remains poorly standardized.Methods: 100 healthy subjects who could achieve horizontal gaze underwent whole-body standing EOS radiographs taken under a strictly standardized protocol. Radiographic measurements of global spinal sagittal parameters and surrogate measures of horizontal gaze were analysed and compared.Results: The mean age was 45 ± 15.9 years, with a balanced male-to-female-ratio. Their C7 SVA was -7.7 mm ± 24.8 mm, PI was 51.0o ± 11.4o, PI-LL was -0.9o ± 13.0o and T1-slope was 21.2o ± 9.2o. Measured horizontal gaze parameters were as follows: CBVA (1.07o ± 5.48o), McGS (-3.23o ± 5.63o), SLS (0.45o ± 5.34o), OIOP (5.03o ± 4.66o), THP (-0.17o ± 6.27o). CBVA correlated strongly with McGS (r = 0.679, p < .001), SLS (r = 0.592, p < .001), OIOP (r = 0.697, p < .001) and THP (r = -0.504, p < .001). OIOP had the lowest variance amongst all parameters and showed less variability compared to CBVA (SD 4.66 Var 21.69 vs SD 5.48 Var 30.08, p = 0.012). Multivariate analysis showed that C2-7 angle was the only parameter found to be associated with OIOP values (p = 0.006).Conclusion: OIOP is the least variable, and most robust radiological method in determining gaze direction. It uses easily recognizable anatomical landmarks and an angular criterion, which makes it advantageous both with X-rays or slot scanners.Level of Evidence: 3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the recent increase in the types of services provided by Internet companies, collection of various types of data has become a necessity. Data collectors corresponding to web services profit by collecting users' data indiscriminately and providing it to the associated services. However, the data provider remains unaware of the manner in which the data are collected and used. Furthermore, the data collector of a web service consumes web resources by generating a large amount of web traffic. This traffic can damage servers by causing service outages. In this study, we propose a website search engine that employs a system that controls user information using blockchains and builds its database based on the recorded information. The system is divided into three parts: a collection section that uses proxy, a management section that uses blockchains, and a search engine that uses a built-in database. This structure allows data sovereigns to manage their data more transparently. Search engines that use blockchains do not use internet bots, and instead use the data generated by user behavior. This avoids generation of traffic from internet bots and can, thereby, contribute to creating a better web ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new class of solutions describing analytical solutions for compact stellar structures has been developed within the tenets of General Relativity. Considering the inherent anisotropy in compact stars, a stable and causal model for realistic anisotropic neutron stars was obtained using the general theory of relativity. Assuming a physically acceptable nonsingular form of one metric potential and radial pressure containing the curvature parameter R , the constant k and the radius r , analytical solutions to Einstein's field equations for anisotropic matter distribution were obtained. Taking the value of k as −0.44, it was found that the proposed model obeys all necessary physical conditions, and it is potentially stable and realistic. The model also exhibits a linear equation of state, which can be applied to describe compact stars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By summarizing operational principle and application research status, this paper analyzed the existing projects and problems of blockchain-smart-contract. First of all, this paper introduced the model and operation principle of blockchain-smart contract in the overall architecture, which analyzed the deployment principle of it on Ethereum, Hyperledger Fabric and EOSIO that made a comparative analysis of them. This paper summarized application research of blockchain-smart-contract by domestic and abroad, and discussed its future innovative application and development tendency. It introduced the application status of blockchain-smart-contract on Ethereum and Hyperledger Fabric platform from financial transactions Internet of Things and medical application, and further probed into the application status of EOS (enterprise operation system) and other application fields. Finally, this paper analyzed and prospected blockchain-smart-contract future research direction through the aspects of itself's existing problems as privacy, mechanism designs and security, performance and formal verification and the shortcomings of application-research process for the three platforms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sepsis is a major cause of mortality and morbidity in neonates. With the improvement in health care standards, the incidence of neonatal Early Onset Sepsis (EOS) has reduced significantly. A recent Web-based EOS-calculator has been introduced with the aim to reduce the use of IV antibiotics in neonates. The role of the EOS-calculator has yet to be ascertained in this regional Special Care Nursery (SCN) in Western Australia. This study aims at examining the local incidence of culture proven EOS and the role of the EOS calculator. It is a retrospective study examining all newborns ≥35 weeks gestation throughout 2019 (Jan–Dec 2019) who received IV-antibiotics. The local incidence of culture-proven EOS was established and applied onto the EOS calculator. The recommended management by the EOS-calculator was cross-examined with the local EOS guideline. Overall proportion of reduction in IV antibiotics use was formulated. Other relevant laboratory data extracted was analysed with Pearson's correlation test with the EOS scores. Total included sample was n = 252 with an annual birth of 1880s indicating 13.4% of all neonates born throughout year 2019 was treated with IV antibiotics. The local incidence of culture-proven EOS was 0.5/1000. By applying the EOS-calculator, a significant reduction of IV antibiotics usage from 13.4% to 3.9% (z value 10.4, p < 0.0001) could be achieved in this cohort. Sixty three percent of neonates who received IV antibiotics in this cohort were classified as 'clinically well' based on the EOS-calculator. The EOS-calculator could reduce the use of IV antibiotics in the neonatal population significantly in this regional SCN (from 13.4% to 3.9%). Judicial use of IV antibiotics is imperative as part of the holistic care for the neonates. Implementation of the EOS-calculator must be done strategically considering the local incidence of EOS and other health care policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]