bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Empirical Analysis of the Dynamics Influencing Bank Capital Structure in Africa
Authors: Obadire Ayodeji Michael , Moyo Vusani , Munzhelele Ntungufhadzeni Freddy
Published: November 2023

Financial institutions, particularly banks, have long grappled with the dilemma of structuring their capital optimally. This process, commonly referred to as capital structure decision-making, is of paramount importance, especially within the financial services sector, where strict regulations are imposed by reserve and central banks in alignment with global Basel guidelines. This study unveils the key factors that determine the capital structure choices of African banks, using panel data encompassing 45 listed banks across six nations that had embraced the Basel III Accord spanning the years 2010 to 2019. The study used the system-generalised moment methods (sys-GMM) estimator to fit the formulated panel data regression model. The study findings showed positive associations between ZSCORE, an indicator of bank financial stability, and net interest margin ratio (NIMR) with bank leverage (TCTE). In addition, the results revealed positive correlations between earnings volatility (EV), profitability (P), and risk (R) with bank leverage (TDCE). This suggests that profitable banks are inclined to favour debt financing, a phenomenon driven by their ability to comfortably service debt obligations with free cash flows. This study’s overarching conclusion underscores the dominant influence of the Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) on African bank capital structures. Whether assessing traditional or Basel III-prescribed measures of bank leverage, LCR consistently emerged as the primary determinant. This finding is of significant relevance to bank executives and regulators, offering them essential insights for informed decision-making by considering striking a balance between equity and debt financing based on financial stability, profitability, and risk profiles.
Clustering and Switching in Semantic Verbal Fluency: Their Development and Relationship with Word Productivity in Typically Developing Greek-Speaking Children and Adolescents
Authors: Karousou Alexandra , Economacou Dimitra , Makris Nikos
Published: November 2023

Performance in semantic verbal fluency (SVF) tasks, mainly measured by the number of words of a particular semantic category produced within a limited time, is a widely accepted measure of cognitive functioning used in the neuropsychological assessment of children and adults. Two strategic processes, Clustering and Switching (C&S) have been proposed to underlie fluency processes and affect performance in the task. However, few studies have reported on the development of those cognitive strategies and their relationship with word productivity in typically developing children. Even fewer studies have covered a broad developmental period from preschool to adolescence or measured the effect of contextual factors in this relationship. Based on a sample of 472 typically developing Greek-speaking children aged 4;0 to 16;11 years, we investigated the development of SVF performance and reported on the degree to which it is affected by C&S strategies, children’s sex, and level of parental education. Results revealed a large effect of age on word productivity and on the use of C&S strategies. Two switching factors (number of clusters and number of switches) and two clustering factors (mean cluster size and a novel measure, maximum cluster size), appeared to be significantly associated with word productivity, with the largest effect being attributed to the two switching factors. C&S factors, together with children’s age and parental education, predicted 91.7% of the variance in the SVF score. Children’s sex was not found to have a significant effect on either word productivity or C&S strategies. Results are discussed for their theoretical implications on the strategic processes underlying word production in typically developing children.
The Skeleton of the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Rubino Angelo , Pierini Stefano , Rubinetti Sara , Gnesotto Michele , Zanchettin Davide
Published: November 2023

The Mediterranean Sea is of great and manifold relevance for global oceanic circulation and climate: Mediterranean waters profoundly affect the salinity of the North Atlantic Ocean and hence the global ocean circulation. Ocean motions are forced fundamentally by the atmosphere. However, direct atmospheric forcing explains just a part of the observed Mediterranean circulation, for example, the former is not able to account for the observed north-south inclination of the sea level, one of the most prominent and persistent features of Mediterranean oceanography. This implies that a significant part of this circulation feature is caused by mechanisms that are all internal, “intrinsic” to the ocean. Yet, no effort has been made so far to disentangle intrinsic oceanic phenomena from atmospherically forced ones in the Mediterranean Sea. Here, we start filling this gap of knowledge. We demonstrate that a conspicuous part of the observed Mediterranean mean state and variability belongs to a skeleton captured for the first time by a multi-centennial ocean simulation without atmospheric forcing. This study paves the way to the identification and comprehension of further observed mean patterns and low-frequency fluctuations in the Mediterranean Sea as the result of intrinsic oceanic processes rather than by a direct effect of the atmospheric forcing and could be extended to other basins where geometry and hydrological structure significantly contribute to shaping the local dynamics.
The Difference in Diversity between Endophytic Microorganisms in White and Grey Zizania latifolia
Authors: Li Yipeng , Hu Cailin , Song Ruiqi , Yin Zhihui , Wang Lingyun , Shi Lin , Li Wei , Zheng Zhaisheng , Yang Mengfei
Published: November 2023

The Zizania latifolia is usually infected by the obligate parasitic fungus Ustilago esculenta to form an edible fleshy stem which is an aquatic vegetable called Jiaobai in China. The infection by the teliospore (T) strain of U. esculenta induces Z. latifolia forming gray fleshy stems, while the mycelia-teliospore (MT) strain of U. esculenta induces white fleshy stems which are more suitable for edibility than gray fleshy stems. The mechanism of this phenomenon is still largely unknown. One of the possible causes is the diversity of endophytic microbial communities between these two fleshy stems. Therefore, we utilized fungal ITS1 and bacterial 16S rDNA amplicon sequencing to investigate the diversity of endophytic microbial communities in the two different fleshy stems of Z. latifolia. The results revealed that the α diversity and richness of endophytic fungi in white Z. latifolia were significantly greater than in gray Z. latifolia. The dominant fungal genus in both fleshy stems was U. esculenta, which accounted for over 90% of the endophytic fungi. The community composition of endophytic fungi in gray and white Z. latifolia was different except for U. esculenta, and a negative correlation was observed between U. esculenta and other endophytic fungi. In addition, the dominant bacterial genus in gray Z. latifolia was Alcaligenaceae which is also negatively correlated with other bacterium communities. Additionally, the co-occurrence network of white Z. latifolia was found to have a stronger scale, connectivity, and complexity compared to that of gray Z. latifolia. And the detected beneficial bacteria and pathogens in the stems of Z. latifolia potentially compete for resources. Furthermore, the function of endophytic bacteria is more abundant than endophytic fungi in Z. latifolia. This research investigated the correlation between the development of Z. latifolia fleshy stems and endophytic microbial communities. Our findings indicate that the composition of endophytic microbial communities is closely related to the type of Z. latifolia fleshy stems. This research also suggests the potential utilization of specific microbial communities to enhance the growth and development of Z. latifolia, thereby contributing to the breeding of Z. latifolia.
Correction: Wu et al. Rust Fungi on Medicinal Plants in Guizhou Province with Descriptions of Three New Species. J. Fungi 2023, 9, 953
Authors: Wu Qianzhen , He Minghui , Liu Tiezhi , Hu Hongmin , Liu Lili , Zhao Peng , Li Qirui
Published: November 2023

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Surveillance of Amphotericin B and Azole Resistance in Aspergillus Isolated from Patients in a Tertiary Teaching Hospital
Authors: da Fonseca Lívia Maria Maciel , Braga Vanessa Fávaro , Tonani Ludmilla , Grizante Barião Patrícia Helena , Nascimento Erika , Martinez Roberto , von Zeska Kress Marcia Regina
Published: November 2023

The genus Aspergillus harbors human infection-causing pathogens and is involved in the complex one-health challenge of antifungal resistance. Here, a 6-year retrospective study was conducted with Aspergillus spp. isolated from patients with invasive, chronic, and clinically suspected aspergillosis in a tertiary teaching hospital. A total of 64 Aspergillus spp. clinical isolates were investigated regarding molecular identification, biofilm, virulence in Galleria mellonella, antifungal susceptibility, and resistance to amphotericin B and azoles. Aspergillus section Fumigati (A. fumigatus sensu stricto, 62.5%) and section Flavi (A. flavus, 20.3%; A. parasiticus, 14%; and A. tamarii, 3.1%) have been identified. Aspergillus section Flavi clinical isolates were more virulent than section Fumigati clinical isolates. Furthermore, scant evidence supports a link between biofilm formation and virulence. The susceptibility of the Aspergillus spp. clinical isolates to itraconazole, posaconazole, voriconazole, and amphotericin B was evaluated. Most Aspergillus spp. clinical isolates (67.2%) had an AMB MIC value equal to or above 2 µg/mL, warning of a higher probability of therapeutic failure in the region under study. In general, the triazoles presented MIC values above the epidemiological cutoff value. The high triazole MIC values of A. fumigatus s.s. clinical isolates were investigated by sequencing the promoter region and cyp51A locus. The Cyp51A amino acid substitutions F46Y, M172V, N248T, N248K, D255E, and E427K were globally detected in 47.5% of A. fumigatus s.s. clinical isolates, and most of them are associated with high triazole MICs. Even so, the findings support voriconazole or itraconazole as the first therapeutic choice for treating Aspergillus infections. This study emphasizes the significance of continued surveillance of Aspergillus spp. infections to help overcome the gap in knowledge of the global fungal burden of infections and antifungal resistance, supporting public health initiatives.
Skull Biomechanics and Simplified Cephalometric Lines for the Estimation of Muscular Lines of Action
Authors: Dolci Claudia , Cenzato Niccolò , Maspero Cinzia , Giannini Lucia , Khijmatgar Shahnawaz , Dipalma Gianna , Tartaglia Gianluca Martino , Inchingolo Francesco
Published: November 2023

Our study introduces a novel cephalometric analysis aimed at facilitating biomechanical simulations by elucidating the intricate relationship between craniofacial morphology and the size and inclination of the masseter muscle (MM) while incorporating muscle values. Our study analyzes the line of action of the MM drawn between the Gonion (Go) and Orbital (Or) points concerning dental and skeletal references (occlusal and Frankfort planes). A total of 510 pre-treatment lateral cephalometric tracings (217 males, 293 females, aged 6–50 years) and lateral Bolton standard tracings were examined. The key parameters investigated include (a) skeletal-cutaneous class (linear distance between projections of points A′ and B′ on the occlusal plane), (b) the angle between the perpendicular line to the occlusal plane and the Go-Or line at the molar occlusal point, and (c) the angle between the Go-Or line and the Frankfort plane. The assessment of anterior-posterior jaw discrepancy, measured as the skeletal-cutaneous class, ranged from −14.5 to 15.5 mm. Abnormal values were identified in two adolescents, showing no gender- or age-related patterns. The angle between the MM’s line of action (Go-Or) and the normal to the occlusal plane averaged 39.3°, while the angle between Go-Or and Po-Or (Frankfort plane) averaged 41.99°. Age had an impact on these angles, with an average 3° decrease in adults and a 4° increase between ages 6 and 50. A weak relationship was observed between sagittal jaw discrepancy and the angle between Go-Or and the Frankfort plane, with about 20% of the variance explained by the anteroposterior maxillary-mandibular relationship. In conclusion, the study presents a cephalometric analysis of the relationship between craniofacial morphology and masseter muscle parameters. It finds that age influences the angles between key reference points, while the skeletal-cutaneous class does not exhibit age- or gender-specific trends. These findings can contribute to a better understanding of craniofacial biomechanics and aid in clinical orthodontic assessments and treatment planning.
Influence of Surface Preparation on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Cold-Sprayed Nickel Coatings on Al 7075 Alloy
Authors: Żórawski Wojciech , Góral Anna , Makrenek Medard , Lityńska-Dobrzyńska Lidia , Czaja Paweł
Published: November 2023

This work presents the effect of surface roughness (Al 7075) on the microstructure and mechanical properties of cold-sprayed nickel coatings. Coating analysis included substrate surfaces and coating geometry, microstructure characterization, microhardness, nanohardness, elastic modulus, and adhesion. The results show that the surface preparation had a significant effect on coating adhesion and microstructure. The coating deposited at the highest gas temperature revealed a dense microstructure, showing very good adhesion of the impacting powder particles to the substrate and good bonding between deposited layers. The Ni grains with different shapes (elongated, equiaxed) and sizes of a few dozen to several hundred nanometres were present in the splats. An increase in temperature caused significant growth in coating thickness as a result of the powder grains’ higher velocity. Moreover, higher gas temperature resulted in the enhancement of micro- and nanohardness, elastic modulus, and adhesion. The adhesive bond strength of Ni coatings in the tested temperature ranges from 500 °C to 800 °C increased with the increase in the surface roughness of the substrate. For the Al 7075 coarse grit-blasted (CG) substrate with the highest roughness, the adhesion reached the highest value of 44.6 MPa when the working gas was at a temperature of 800 °C. There were no distinct dependencies of surface roughness and thickness on the mechanical properties of the cold-sprayed nickel coating.
Metapopulation Modeling of Socioeconomic Vulnerability of Sahelian Populations to Climate Variability: Case of Tougou, Village in Northern Burkina Faso
Authors: Zorom Malicki , Leye Babacar , Diop Mamadou , Coly Serigne M’backé
Published: November 2023

Since the droughts of the 1970s–1980s, populations in the Sahel region have opted for a mass exodus to more humid urban or rural centers. Migrations or exoduses have accelerated in recent decades due to environmental degradation and unfavorable climatic conditions. Insufficient harvests are the main reason for migration for the majority of migrants in the Sahelian areas. Migration is a major adaptation strategy to cope with extreme climatic conditions, thus requiring quantification in the destination area. The aim of this paper is to propose a metapopulation model to approximate reality by identifying the transition from one socioeconomic vulnerability group to another, from a less favorable area to favorable area in terms of natural resources, depending on the strategies, policies, and climate variability. The model was used to analyze the dynamics of socioeconomic vulnerability to study the impact of migration on the dynamics of socioeconomic vulnerability. The developed mathematical model was analyzed. Up to 2050, simulations applied to the Tougou village in northern Burkina Faso show that migration has a positive impact on the socioeconomic vulnerability of the destination area, thereby reducing the vulnerability of the population by 10% when resources are increased by up to 30%.
A Multi-View Approach for Regional Parking Occupancy Prediction with Attention Mechanisms
Authors: Ye Wei , Kuang Haoxuan , Lai Xinjun , Li Jun
Published: November 2023

The near-future parking space availability is informative for the formulation of parking-related policy in urban areas. Plenty of studies have contributed to the spatial–temporal prediction for parking occupancy by considering the adjacency between parking lots. However, their similarities in properties remain unspecific. For example, parking lots with similar functions, though not adjacent, usually have similar patterns of occupancy changes, which can help with the prediction as well. To fill the gap, this paper proposes a multi-view and attention-based approach for spatial–temporal parking occupancy prediction, namely hybrid graph convolution network with long short-term memory and temporal pattern attention (HGLT). In addition to the local view of adjacency, we construct a similarity matrix using the Pearson correlation coefficient between parking lots as the global view. Then, we design an integrated neural network focusing on graph structure and temporal pattern to assign proper weights to the different spatial features in both views. Comprehensive evaluations on a real-world dataset show that HGLT reduces prediction error by about 30.14% on average compared to other state-of-the-art models. Moreover, it is demonstrated that the global view is effective in predicting parking occupancy.
A New Fractional-Order Adaptive Sliding-Mode Approach for Fast Finite-Time Control of Human Knee Joint Orthosis with Unknown Dynamic
Authors: Azizi Aydin , Naderi Soorki Mojtaba , Vedadi Moghaddam Tahmineh , Soleimanizadeh Ali
Published: November 2023

This study delves into the implementation of Fast Finite Time Fractional-Order Adaptive Sliding Mode Control (FFOASMC) for knee joint orthosis (KJO) in the presence of undisclosed dynamics. To achieve this, a novel approach introduces a Fractional-Order Sliding Surface (FOSS). In the context of limited knowledge regarding the dynamics of knee joint arthrosis, Fractional-Order Fast Adaptive Sliding Mode Control (FOFASMC) is devised. Its purpose is to ensure both finite-time stability and prompt convergence of the KJO’s state to the desired trajectory. This controller employs adaptive rules to estimate the enigmatic dynamic parameters of KJO. Through the application of the Lyapunov theorem, the attained finite-time stability of the closed loop is demonstrated. Simulation results effectively showcase the viability of these approaches and offer a comparative analysis against conventional integer-order sliding mode controllers.
Advances in Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery
Authors: Aycart Mario A. , Caterson Edward J.
Published: November 2023

Cleft lip with or without cleft palate is one of the most common congenital malformations, with an average prevalence of 1 in 1000 live births. Cleft lip and/or palate is incredibly phenotypically diverse, with constant advancements and refinements in how we care for patients. This article presents an in-depth review of the latest advances and current evidence in cleft lip and palate surgery. This includes presurgical infant orthopedics, perioperative practice patterns including use of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols, patient-reported outcome measures, and the latest adjuncts in cheiloplasty and palatoplasty.
Primary Composition of Kimberlite Melt
Authors: Kostrovitsky Sergey , Dymshits Anna , Yakovlev Dmitry , Sun Jing , Kalashnikova Tatiana , Ashchepkov Igor , Belozerova Olga
Published: November 2023

The compositions (mineralogy, major- and trace-element chemistry of rocks and minerals, and Sr-Nd-Hf isotope systematics) of two kimberlite bodies, the Obnazhennaya pipe and the Velikan dyke from the Kuoika field, Yakutian kimberlite province (YaKP), which are close to each other (1 km distance) and of the same Upper Jurassic age, are presented. The kimberlites of the two bodies are contrastingly different in composition. The Obnazhennaya pipe is composed of pyroclastic kimberlite of high Mg and low Ti composition and is characterized by high saturation of clastic material of the lithospheric mantle (CMLM). The pyroclastic kimberlite contains rare inclusions of coherent kimberlite from previous intrusion phases. The Velikan dyke is represented by coherent kimberlite of relatively high Fe and high Ti composition, having neither mantle xenoliths nor olivine xenocrysts. The similarity of the isotopic geochemical characteristics for kimberlites from both bodies and their spatial and temporal proximity suggest that their formation is associated with the presence of a single primary magmatic source located in the asthenosphere. It is proposed that the asthenospheric melt differentiated into two parts: (1) a predominantly carbonate composition and (2) a carbonate–silicate composition, which, respectively, formed (a) low Fe and (b) Mg-Fe and high Fe-Ti petrochemical types of kimberlites. Both parts of the melt had different capabilities to capture the xenogenic material of the mantle rocks. The greater ability to destroy and, subsequently, capture CMLM belongs to the melt, which formed a high Mg type of kimberlite and which, according to the structural–textural classification, more often corresponds to the pyroclastic kimberlite. It is suggested that the primary kimberlite melt of asthenospheric origin is similar in composition to the high Fe, high Ti, coherent kimberlite from the Velikan dyke (in wt. %: SiO2–21.8, TiO2–3.5, Al2O3–4.0, FeO–10.6, MnO–0.19, MgO–21.0, CaO–17.2, Na2O–0.24, K2O–0.78, P2O5–0.99, CO2–12.6). It is concluded that the pyroclastic kimberlite contains only xenogenic Ol, whereas some of the Ol macrocrysts with high FeO content in the coherent kimberlite have crystallized from the melt. The similarity of Sr-Nd-Hf isotope systematics and trace element compositions for kimberlites of different ages (from Devonian to Upper Jurassic) in different parts of the YaKP (in the Kuoika, Daldyn and Mirny fields) indicates a single long-lived homogeneous magmatic asthenospheric source.
Investigation of the Effect of Fracturing Fluids on Shale Pore Structure by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance
Authors: Zhu Xiulan , Wang Zhiguo , You Yang , Zhang Chuang , Gao Hui , Zhang Nan , Li Teng , Wang Chen , Cheng Zhilin
Published: November 2023

Hydraulic fracturing technology significantly enhances the productivity of shale oil and gas reservoirs. Nonetheless, the infiltration of fracturing fluid into shale formations can detrimentally affect the microscopic pore structure, thereby impairing the efficacy of hydraulic stimulation. In this study, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) technology was utilized to conduct high-pressure soaking tests on shale specimens treated with EM30+ + guar gum mixed water and CNI nano variable-viscosity slickwater, where various concentrations of a drag reducer were utilized. Additionally, the differences in porosity, permeability, mineral composition, and iron ion concentration before and after the measurements were compared, which were used to analyze the influence on the shale’s microscopic pore structure. It features a reduction in the total pore volume after the interaction with the fracturing fluid, with the pore-throat damage degree, porosity damage degree, and permeability damage degree ranging from 0.63% to 5.62%, 1.51% to 6.84%, and 4.17% to 19.61%, respectively. Notably, EM30+ + guar gum mixed water exhibits heightened adsorption retention, alkaline dissolution, and precipitation compared to CNI nano variable-viscosity slickwater, rendering it more deleterious to shale. Moreover, higher concentrations of drag reducers, such as EM30+ or CNI-B, predominantly result in damage to the shale’s micropores. Shale compositions characterized by lower content of quartz and elevated proportions of clay minerals and iron-bearing minerals showcase augmented mineral dissolution and precipitation, consequently intensifying the shale damage. The hydration expansion of mixed-layer illite/smectite profoundly diminishes the core permeability. Consequently, the mechanisms underpinning the damage inflicted on shale’s microscopic pore structure primarily involve fracturing fluid adsorption and retention, mineral dissolution, and precipitation, such as clay minerals and iron-containing minerals.
Dietary Patterns and Their Association with Cardiometabolic Biomarkers and Outcomes among Hispanic Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2013–2018)
Authors: Osborn Brandon , Haemer Matthew A.
Published: November 2023

Cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders are disproportionately prevalent among Hispanic and Latino adults in the United States. We extracted a posteriori dietary patterns (DPs) among a nationally representative sample of 2049 Hispanic adults using the 2013–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Three primary DPs and their tertiles were identified, and their associations with cardiometabolic outcomes were examined. Those with higher levels of the Solids Fats, Cheeses, Refined Carbohydrates DP were more likely younger, male, and Mexican American. Those with higher levels of the Vegetables DP were more likely female, higher income, and long-term immigrant residents. Those with higher levels of The Plant-Based DP tended to have higher education levels. Higher levels of the Solid Fats, Cheeses, Refined Carbohydrates DP level were positively associated with body mass index (Tertile 2, β: 1.07 [95%CI: 0.14, 1.99]) and negatively associated with lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels (Tertile 3, β: −4.53 [95%CI: −7.03, −2.03]). Higher levels of adherence to the Vegetables DP were negatively associated with body fat (Tertile 3, β: −1.57 [95%CI: −2.74, −0.39]) but also HDL-C (Tertile 2, β: −2.62 [95%CI: −4.79, −0.47]). The Plant-Based DP showed no associations with cardiometabolic outcomes. Future research and interventions should consider these associations as well as the sociodemographic differences within each DP.
Retinol Levels and Severity of Patients with COVID-19
Authors: Carvalho Maria Clara da Cruz , Araujo Júlia Kaline Carvalho Pereira , da Silva Ana Gabriella Costa Lemos , da Silva Nayara Sousa , de Araújo Nathalia Kelly , Luchessi Andre Ducati , Ribeiro Karla Danielly da Silva , Silbiger Vivian Nogueira
Published: November 2023

The new coronavirus infection represents a serious threat to global health and economies. In this sense, it is paramount to know the nutritional factors that may be related to the prognosis of the disease. Evidence shows that vitamin A may play an important preventive and therapeutic role in supporting respiratory infections as in COVID-19. The aim of our study was to evaluate the association of vitamin A (retinol) status with the prognosis of the disease. A case–control study from a cohort study was conducted in Brazil between May and October 2020. The study population was chosen by convenience, consisting of participants diagnosed with COVID-19. Recruitment was carried out using different approaches, including through dissemination on social media and in four hospitals in the city of Natal/RN, Brazil, recruiting participants from the COVID-19 ward and hospitalized participants who tested positive for the disease. The participants were allocated into two groups according to severity, with a group of mild (n = 88) or critical (n = 106) patients and compared to a control group (selected before the pandemic, n = 46). The extraction of retinol serum was performed and analyzed using the high-performance liquid chromatography method (HPLC). The retinol level was calculated in mmol/L, and levels below 0.7 μmol/L (20 µg/dL) were considered to be a vitamin A deficiency. Our findings suggest that the participants with mild and critical COVID-19 had lower retinol levels compared to the healthy controls (p = 0.03). In addition, milder cases of COVID-19 were associated with increased symptoms and prolonged symptoms after 90 days since the beginning of infection. However, the survival analysis showed no association with higher cases of death among participants with vitamin A deficiency (p = 0.509). More studies are needed to understand how nutritional status, including vitamin A levels, can influence prognosis and is a risk factor for the development of long COVID syndrome.
Factors Associated with Obstetric Violence Implicated in the Development of Postpartum Depression and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: A Systematic Review
Authors: Silva-Fernandez Claudia Susana , de la Calle Maria , Arribas Silvia M. , Garrosa Eva , Ramiro-Cortijo David
Published: November 2023

Postpartum depression (PPD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) continue to be prevalent, and disabling women with mental disorders and obstetric violence (OV) may be a trigger for them, particularly during maternity. We aimed to analyze the association between manifestations of OV with the development of PPD and PTSD during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. This systematic review was based on the PRISMA 2020 statement and explored original articles published between 2012 and 2022. A total of 21 articles were included in the analysis, and bias was assessed by the Effective Public Health Practice Project’s Quality Assessment Tool. The highest rate of PPD symptoms appeared in women under 20 years old, multiparous, and with low education levels. The higher PTSD ratio was present in women under 35 years, primiparous, and with secondary studies. The mode of labor (instrumental or C-section) was identified as a major risk factor of PPD, being mediator variables of the informal coercion of health professionals and dissatisfaction with newborn healthcare. Instead, partner support during labor and high satisfaction with healthcare during birth were protective factors. Regarding PTSD, the mode of labor, several perineal tears, and the Kristeller technique were risk factors, and loss of autonomy and coercion modulated PTSD symptomatology. The protective factors for PTSD were respect for the labor plan, adequate communication with health professionals, social support during labor, and the skin-to-skin procedure. This systematic review provides evidence that OV contributes to PPD and PTSD, being important in developing standardized tools to prevent it. This study recommends changes in maternal healthcare policies, such as individualized healthcare assistance, humanized pregnancy protocols, and women’s mental health follow-up, and improvements in the methodological quality of future research.
Nurse Manager Span of Control in Hospital Settings: An Integrative Review
Authors: Boned-Galán Angel , López-Ibort Nieves , Gascón-Catalán Ana
Published: November 2023

Background: Nurse managers face great challenges in responding to organizational demands. There exists a general mismatch between managerial span of control and the demands of the job post, which can lead to overburdening and attrition. The aim of this review was to identify the effects of the nurse manager span of control on hospital organizations. Methods: An integrative literature review was carried out on nurse manager span of control using the Medline, Embase and Web of Science databases. Results: 21 articles were included. Our findings indicate that the span of control of nursing managers influences outcomes in inpatients, professionals, nurse managers, and the organization. Conclusions: The span of control of each nurse manager must be assessed and adjusted to each case. An appropriate span of control will lead to improved outcomes for stakeholders and the organization as a whole. Implications for nursing management: Tools must be developed and implemented to measure and evaluate the span of control of nurse managers. This study was not registered.
Radiotracers for Imaging of Fibrosis: Advances during the Last Two Decades and Future Directions
Authors: Eriksson Olof , Velikyan Irina
Published: November 2023

Fibrosis accompanies various pathologies, and there is thus an unmet medical need for non-invasive, sensitive, and quantitative methods for the assessment of fibrotic processes. Currently, needle biopsy with subsequent histological analysis is routinely used for the diagnosis along with morphological imaging techniques, such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound (US). However, none of these imaging techniques are sufficiently sensitive and accurate to detect minor changes in fibrosis. More importantly, they do not provide information on fibrotic activity on the molecular level, which is critical for fundamental understanding of the underlying biology and disease course. Molecular imaging technology using positron emission tomography (PET) offers the possibility of imaging not only physiological real-time activity, but also high-sensitivity and accurate quantification. This diagnostic tool is well established in oncology and has exhibited exponential development during the last two decades. However, PET diagnostics has only recently been widely applied in the area of fibrosis. This review presents the progress of development of radiopharmaceuticals for non-invasive detection of fibrotic processes, including the fibrotic scar itself, the deposition of new fibrotic components (fibrogenesis), or the degradation of existing fibrosis (fibrolysis).
Insight into Risk Factors, Pharmacogenetics/Genomics, and Management of Adverse Drug Reactions in Elderly: A Narrative Review
Authors: Bellanca Carlo Maria , Augello Egle , Cantone Anna Flavia , Di Mauro Rosaria , Attaguile Giuseppe Antonino , Di Giovanni Vincenza , Condorelli Guido Attilio , Di Benedetto Giulia , Cantarella Giuseppina , Bernardini Renato
Published: November 2023

The European Medicine Agency (EMA) has defined Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) as “a noxious and unintended response to a medicine”, not including poisoning, accidental, or intentional overdoses. The ADR occurrence differs based on the approach adopted for defining and detecting them, the characteristics of the population under study, and the research setting. ADRs have a significant impact on morbidity and mortality, particularly among older adults, and represent a financial burden for health services. Between 30% and 60% of ADRs might be predictable and preventable, emerging as a result of inappropriate prescription, drug chemistry inherent toxicity, cell-specific drug toxicity, age- and sex-related anomalies in drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination (ADME), and drug–drug interactions (DDIs) in combination therapies or when a patient is treated with different drugs for concomitant disorders. This is particularly important in chronic diseases which require long-term treatments. Rapid developments in pharmacogenetics/genomics have improved the understanding of ADRs accompanied by more accurate prescriptions and reduction in unnecessary costs. To alleviate the burden of ADRs, especially in the elderly, interventions focused on pharmaceutical principles, such as medication review and reconciliation, should be integrated into a broader assessment of patients’ characteristics, needs, and health priorities. Digital health interventions could offer valuable solutions to assist healthcare professionals in identifying inappropriate prescriptions and promoting patient adherence to pharmacotherapies.
Preparation and Properties of Starch–Cellulose Composite Aerogel
Authors: Huang Jihong , Gao Jingyang , Qi Liang , Gao Qunyu , Fan Ling
Published: November 2023

In this study, we conducted research on the preparation of aerogels using cellulose and starch as the primary materials, with the addition of N,N′-methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) as a cross-linking agent. The chemical, morphological and textural characteristics of the aerogels were found to be influenced by the proportions of cellulose, starch, and cross-linking agent that were utilized. An increase in the proportion of cellulose led to stronger adsorption forces within the aerogel structure. The aerogel showed a fine mesh internal structure, but the pores gradually increased with the further increase in cellulose. Notably, when the mass fractions of starch and cellulose were 5 wt% and 1 wt% respectively, the aerogels exhibited the smallest pore size and largest porosity. With an increase in the crosslinking agent, the internal structure of the aerogel first became dense and then loose, and the best internal structure was displayed at the addition of 3 wt%. Through texture analysis and the swelling test, the impact of the proportion of cellulose and MBA on the aerogel structure was significant. Dye adsorption experiments indicated that MBA affected the water absorption and expansion characteristics of the aerogel by improving the pore structure. Lastly, in tests involving the loading of vitamin E, the aerogels exhibited a higher capacity for incorporating vitamin E compared to native starch.
A Quality Prediction Method Based on Tri-Training Weighted Ensemble Just-in-Time Learning–Relevance Vector Machine Model
Authors: Chen Xuhang , Zhao Jinlong , Xu Min , Yang Mingyi , Wu Xinguang
Published: November 2023

The core quality data, such as interior ballistic performance, are seriously unbalanced in the plasticizing and molding process, which makes it difficult for traditional supervised learning methods to accurately predict this kind of index. A Tri-training weighted ensemble JITL-RVM model based on an integrated confidence evaluation strategy is proposed to solve the above problem. The method is based on Tri-training semi-supervised regression architecture and uses both labeled and unlabeled data for modeling. First of all, the traditional single similarity measure method is difficult to use to evaluate the real similarity between data samples reliably and stably. This method realizes diversity enhancement and data expansion of the data set for modelling through ensemble just-in-time modelling based on three homologous and heterogeneous mixed similarity measures. Secondly, a new integrated confidence evaluation strategy is used to select the unlabeled samples, and the pseudo-labeled data, which can improve the prediction performance of the model, can be selected. To improve the prediction effect of the model, the pseudo-label value of the data is revised continuously. The integrated confidence evaluation strategy can overcome many shortcomings of the traditional confidence evaluation method based on Co-training regression (Coreg). Finally, the final quality prediction value is obtained through weighted integration fusion, which reflects the difference between different models and further improves the prediction accuracy. The experimental results of interior ballistic performance prediction of single-base gun propellant show the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed method, and it can improve the RMSE, R2, and PHR to 0.8074, 0.9644, and 93.3%, respectively.
X-ray Fluorescence Analysis of Waste Sm-Co Magnets: A Rational Approach
Authors: Arkhipenko Alexandra Alexandrovna , Marina Galina Evgenievna , Doronina Marina Sergeevna , Korotkova Natalya Alexandrovna , Baranovskaya Vasilisa Borisovna
Published: November 2023

Determination of the chemical composition of waste Sm-Co magnets is required for their efficient recycling. The non-stereotypical composition of said magnets makes an analysis extremely challenging. X-ray fluorescence spectrometry is a promising analytical tool for this task. It offers high accuracy and simplicity of sample preparation as it does not require sample dissolution. However, a serious limitation of X-ray fluorescence analysis is the spectral interference of matrix elements and impurities. In this work, a two-stage technique has been developed for the determination of the main components (Sm, Co) and impurities (Fe, Cu, Zr, Hf, Ti, Ni, Mn, Cr) in samples of spent samarium–cobalt magnets using wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry. In order to overcome the main limitation of the chosen method and to maximize its capabilities of qualitative and quantitative analysis, we propose an approach to the selection of analytical lines and experimental conditions, as well as a preparation method for the calibration standards. The obtained results have been shown to have a good correlation with ICP-OES. The limits of detection are in the range of 0.001–0.02 wt%, and the limits of quantification are 0.003–0.08 wt%.
Applying Utility Criteria to Select the Design Variant of the Transport System in Underground Mine Workings
Authors: Turek Marian Czesław , Bednarczyk Łukasz , Jonek-Kowalska Izabela
Published: November 2023

This article presents a new, in-house developed method of selecting a variant of the transport system in the underground of a mine, using multi-variant decision support, taking into account the specificity of an underground mining plant. The implementation of the method should facilitate the selection of the most optimal transport system, ensuring continuity and the lowest operating costs. Seven functional criteria are proposed herein, which may be of a stimulant or destimulant nature. Each criterion was assigned a specific scoring weight reflecting the level of significance, with the sum of the weights being 100. The highest scores for the variants in the individual criteria go to those characterized by the following traits: the shortest transport time, the highest compatibility with the transport system already existing in the mine, transport routes with the greatest coverage communication, allow workers to be transported to the front of the excavation as quickly as possible, are most compatible with the existing transport systems in terms of the reinforcement and removal of longwalls, have a drive with the lowest operational hazard, have the least negative impact on the atmosphere of workings (exhaust gas emissions), and those that will ensure the best functioning of transport in emergency situations involving risk or uncertainty. For each criterion, a scoring formula based on specific parameters is provided. The method was used to select the optimal variant of the transport system in one of the mines, where four long walls were cut and four long galleries were drilled. Out of ten variants, the variant that should ensure the highest degree of reliable transport operation and continuity of operation has been determined using seven usability criteria.
Exploiting Earth Observations to Enable Groundwater Modeling in the Data-Sparse Region of Goulbi Maradi, Niger
Authors: Barbosa Sergio A. , Jones Norman L. , Williams Gustavious P. , Mamane Bako , Begou Jamila , Nelson E. James , Ames Daniel P.
Published: November 2023

Groundwater modeling is a useful tool for assessing sustainability in water resources planning. However, groundwater models are difficult to construct in regions with limited data availability, areas where planning is most crucial. We illustrate how remote sensing data can be used with limited in situ data to build and calibrate a regional groundwater model in the Goulbi Maradi alluvial aquifer in southern Niger in Western Africa. We used data from the NASA Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) satellite mission to estimate recharge rates, the primary source of water to the aquifer. We used the groundwater storage changes obtained from GRACE data from 2009 to 2021 to establish an overall water budget. We used this water budget to back-calculate groundwater withdrawals from pumping in the region. There are only very limited historic data on withdrawals. This approach allowed us to calibrate the model and use it as a predictive tool to analyze the impact of various assumptions about future recharge and groundwater extraction patterns associated with the development of groundwater infrastructure in the region. The results indicate that water extraction from the Goulbi Maradi alluvial aquifer is sustainable, even if current groundwater extraction is increased by up to 28%.
Crowd-Driven Deep Learning Tracks Amazon Deforestation
Authors: McCallum Ian , Walker Jon , Fritz Steffen , Grau Markus , Hannan Cassie , Hsieh I-Sah , Lape Deanna , Mahone Jen , McLester Caroline , Mellgren Steve , Piland Nolan , See Linda , Svolba Gerhard , de Villiers Murray
Published: November 2023

The Amazon forests act as a global reserve for carbon, have very high biodiversity, and provide a variety of additional ecosystem services. These forests are, however, under increasing pressure, coming mainly from deforestation, despite the fact that accurate satellite monitoring is in place that produces annual deforestation maps and timely alerts. Here, we present a proof of concept for rapid deforestation monitoring that engages the global community directly in the monitoring process via crowdsourcing while subsequently leveraging the power of deep learning. Offering no tangible incentives, we were able to sustain participation from more than 5500 active contributors from 96 different nations over a 6-month period, resulting in the crowd classification of 43,108 satellite images (representing around 390,000 km2). Training a suite of AI models with results from the crowd, we achieved an accuracy greater than 90% in detecting new and existing deforestation. These findings demonstrate the potential of a crowd–AI approach to rapidly detect and validate deforestation events. Our method directly engages a large, enthusiastic, and increasingly digital global community who wish to participate in the stewardship of the global environment. Coupled with existing monitoring systems, this approach could offer an additional means of verification, increasing confidence in global deforestation monitoring.
Reflections on the Impact of an Intergenerational Digital Storytelling Program on Changing Attitudes and Fostering Dialogue and Understanding across the Generations
Authors: Silver Mark , Lee Lysha Zhi Yan
Published: November 2023

Digital storytelling (DST) has the primary goal of giving underrepresented voices a platform to be seen and heard. Adding an intergenerational dimension can bring about many other benefits for all participants as well as the wider community. This article presents a reflection on the Positive Ageing Digital Storytelling Intergenerational Program (PADSIP), outlining the various elements involve in program planning and implementation, reflecting on the past 15 years of program delivery, and underscoring future directions. PADSIP brings together older adults from both community and residential care settings with high school students in an intergenerational context. The process involves collaboratively creating digital stories that explore shared passions and lived experiences. Over the past 15 years, the program has evolved to include various adaptations to accommodate diverse groups, including neurodiverse individuals and those with disabilities. The program, originally taking a ten-session weekly format, has even become an integral part of school curricula in one local high school. Although the COVID-19 pandemic prompted adjustments including temporary transition of program meetings to online platforms as well as video production assistance, the intergenerational bonds and meaningful dialogues remained strong. By challenging stereotypes and fostering deeper connections, the program highlights the potential for intergenerational DST to positively reshape attitudes and understanding among participants. Current and future program research seek to delve into the mechanisms that facilitate such transformative outcomes, investigating the in-depth connections and communication that characterise the intergenerational DST approach.