bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical Treatments and Therapies for Androgenetic Alopecia
Authors: Lama Siddhi Bianca Camila , Pérez-González Luis Alfonso , Kosoglu Mehmet A. , Dennis Robert , Ortega-Quijano Daniel
Published: June 2024

Androgenetic alopecia, the most common cause of hair loss affecting both men and women, is typically treated using pharmaceutical options such as minoxidil and finasteride. While these medications work for many individuals, they are not suitable options for all. To date, the only non-pharmaceutical option that the United States Food and Drug Administration has cleared as a treatment for androgenetic alopecia is low-level laser therapy (LLLT). Various clinical trials utilizing LLLT devices of various types are available. However, a myriad of other physical treatments for this form of hair loss are reported in the literature. This review evaluated the effectiveness of microneedling, pulsed-electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy, low-level laser therapy (LLLT), fractional laser therapy, and non-ablative laser therapy for the treatment of androgenetic alopecia (AGA). It also explores the potential of multimodal treatments combining these physical therapies. LLLT has the majority of evidence in the literature as a physical therapy for androgenetic alopecia. However, other physical treatments, such as non-ablative laser treatments, and multimodal approaches, such as PEMF-LLLT, seem to have the potential to be equally or more promising and merit further exploration.
The Land Surveyor and the GPS in the Context of Systematic Land Registrations
Authors: Merebashvili Tornike
Published: June 2024

The article covers the Surveyor Institute's historical context and its role in the legal order of land rights registration. It highlights the importance of GPS technologies in ensuring the accuracy of registering rights to real estate. The article reviews the role of systematic registrations in clarifying overlapping cadastral data and preventing neighborhood disputes. Additionally, it underscores the challenges related to surveying activities in Georgia and emphasizes the importance of establishing a legal framework for this profession.
YouTube Kids: A Channel for English Language Acquisition
Authors: GENELZA GENESIS
Published: June 2024

YouTube Kids serves as a dynamic and user-friendly resource for young learners to learn English. Its extensive library of instructional materials, which includes captivating animations and interactive movies, provides a rich and varied learning environment. Through the integration of play and exploration into language study, YouTube Kids creates a comfortable and engaging atmosphere that allows kids to improve their English language skills at their own pace. In this research article, a narrative literature review was employed as a qualitative methodology. Based on the gathered relevant literature, YouTube Kids presented such positive and negative impacts as a channel for English language acquisition. YouTube Kids is indeed a beneficial tool for young learners who are trying to learn English, but at the same time, it does have some potential disadvantages, as some videos may not employ the same standard or correctness of English, which could expose kids to improper grammar or pronunciation. Parents and teachers need to carefully select and keep an eye on the content their kids watch to ensure that their children's YouTube Kids content supports their language learning objectives. Through careful supervision and curation, parents and educators may maximize the usefulness of the site as a medium for teaching young learners English language skills while also minimizing any potential downsides.
Tool-Emitted Sound Signal Decomposition Using Wavelet and Empirical Mode Decomposition Techniques—A Comparison
Authors: Joseph Emerson Raja , J Hossen , Thangavel Bhuvaneswari , Nor Azlina , Lim Thong Leng , Mariathangam Pushpa Rani
Published: June 2024

Analysis of non-stationary and nonlinear sound signals obtained from dynamical processes is one of the greatest challenges in signal processing. Turning machine operation is a highly dynamic process persuaded by many events such as dynamical responses, chip formations and operational conditions of machining. Traditional and widely used fast Fourier transformation and spectrogram is not suitable for processing sound signals acquired from dynamical systems as its result have significant deficiencies because of stationary assumptions and having priori basis. The relatively new technique, Discrete Wavelet Transform, which uses Wavelet decomposition and the recently developed technique, Hilbert Huang Transform (HHT) which uses Empirical Mode Decomposition have notably better properties in the analysis of nonlinear and non-stationary sound signals. This paper presents a comparative study on the decomposition of multicomponent sound signals using Empirical Mode Decomposition and Wavelet Decomposition to highlight the suitability found in HHT to analyze tool-emitted sound signals received from turning processes. Apart from the short mathematical and theoretical foundations of the transformations, this paper demonstrates their decomposition strength using an experimental case study of tool flank wear monitoring in turning. It also concludes HHT is more suitable than DWT to analyze tool-emitted sound signals received from turning processes.
An Overview of Herbal-carbon Dots
Authors: P Archana , P ARCHANA
Published: June 2024

A key component of nanomaterials, carbon dots (CDs) are zero-dimensional solids, smaller than 10 nm in size that include carbon as their backbone structure. Herbal medicine carbon dots (HM-CDs) are nanoparticles developed from medicinal plants. Owing to their advantageous properties, they are extensively employed in biological domains such as drug administration, bio-imaging, biosensors, and DNA interactions. It's interesting to note that, carbon dots pro-duced from herbal medicines as a raw material have surfaced as the most recent addition to the CD family.
This article provides an overview of the several sources of green precursor, preparation tech-niques, characterization, and applications of CDs. It reviews recent advancements in synthe-sizing CDs made from green carbon materials and their potential uses as bioimaging, catalysts and sensing. Furthermore, several difficult issues and future directions for this potent and amazing content are also covered.
Spontaneous Splenic Rupture Secondary to Infectious Mononucleosis
Authors: Kountouri Ismini , Vitkos Evangelos Ν. , Dimasis Periklis , Chandolias Miltiadis , Galani Manolakou Maria Martha , Gkiatas Nikolaos , Manolakaki Dimitra
Published: June 2024

Spontaneous splenic rupture (SSR) is a relatively rare, but potentially lethal complication of infectious mononucleosis (IM). While SSR is extremely rare in patients with proven IM, it is the most lethal complication of the infection (9% mortality rate) and can present completely asymptomatically or with abdominal pain and hemodynamic instability. As adolescents and young adults are the most affected population group, with this case report we intend to raise the vigilance of any doctor treating those patients in the emergency department. We present the case of a 16-year-old patient with an atraumatic splenic rupture and hemoperitoneum secondary to an Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. The patient underwent an exploratory laparotomy, and a splenectomy was performed. This case demonstrates that even if the SSR in patients with IM is extremely rare, it should be always considered in a patient with relevant clinical presentation.
Perspectives on Resistance Exercise Intensity of Healthcare Professionals and People With a Spinal Cord Injury in Japan, Indonesia, Korea and Thailand
Authors: Jung Kyung Su , Chotiyarnwong Chayaporn , Kusumawardani Martha K. , Yoon Seung-Hyun , Chotiyarnwong Pojchong , Narasinta Ingaar , Tinduh Damayanti , Kouda Ken , Tajima Fumihiro
Published: June 2024

(1) Background: This study aims to investigate differences in the perspectives of exercise intensity for resistance exercise of healthcare professionals (HCPs) and adults living with spinal cord injury (SCI) in Asian countries. Also, it verifies the appropriateness of the conventional indicators for resistance exercise intensity in an Asian context; (2) Methods: 121 certified HCPs and 107 adults with SCI participated in a survey conducted in Indonesian, Japanese, Korean and Thai languages. The survey asked what principles are important for prescribing resistance exercise, and if ‘moderate’ and ‘vigorous’ were appropriate terms for indicating an intensity level. Perspective differences were examined between both groups and, further, between countries from a psychosocial perspective; (3) Results: Of the HCPs, 92% perceived that resistance exercise intensity was far more important than frequency, time or type of exercise while frequency (61%) followed by intensity (58%) was perceived as important by respondents with SCI. Only Japanese respondents with SCI agreed with HCP’s perception of intensity. Both HCPs and respondents with SCI showed unfavorable responses on the usage of ‘moderate’ and ‘vigorous’ for describing resistance exercise intensity, especially Japanese HCP and respondents with SCI from Indonesia; (4) Conclusion: Our findings suggest that non-HCPs must improve their perceptions of exercise intensity. Findings also suggest the need for more explicit and user-friendly terms or expressions indicating the level of intensity in a local (Asian) context.
Transforming Administrative Justice Insights Indonesian State Dispute Resolution
Authors: Ariky Iqbal Maula , Rato Dominikus , Setyawan Fendi
Published: June 2024

This study examines the role of administrative remedies in resolving state administrative disputes in Indonesia, particularly in light of Supreme Court Regulation No. 6 of 2018. It investigates the legal obligations and procedural mechanisms governing the utilization of administrative remedies, with a focus on disputes involving Civil Servants (ASN). Utilizing a juridical-normative approach, the research underscores the importance of exhausting administrative remedies before resorting to judicial measures, highlighting the potential consequences of failing to do so. Findings indicate that administrative remedies play a crucial role in safeguarding citizens' legal rights, while judicial authorities retain discretion to dismiss cases lacking administrative recourse. The study underscores the need for adherence to procedural requirements and administrative lawfulness, offering insights for legal practitioners, policymakers, and judicial authorities to enhance the administrative justice system in Indonesia.
Highlights: 

Exhausting administrative remedies crucial for procedural fairness in state disputes.
Judicial discretion vital; dismissal possible without exhausting administrative remedies.
Legal practice and policy must prioritize procedural compliance and enhancement.

Keywords: Administrative Remedies, State Administrative Disputes, Legal Obligations, Procedural Mechanisms
Giant sediment-wave field and supercritical flows in a distally steepened ramp, Fort Payne Formation (Lower Mississippian), Kentucky–Tennessee, U.S.A.
Authors: Handford C. Robertson
Published: June 2024

Sediment waves are common in confined to unconfined settings on modern marine slopes and basin floors worldwide. Their morphology and stratal patterns show that many of them migrate upslope and upflow, a characteristic thought to record Froude-supercritical flow conditions associated with sediment gravity flows and density cascades. Few sediment waves of this type have been observed in the ancient rock record.

This study reports the discovery of a giant (> 20,000 km2) sediment-wave field in Lower Mississippian carbonates and shales of the Fort Payne Formation in Tennessee and Kentucky, U.S.A. Sediment waves are present in the clinothem slopes and basin floor of a distally steepened ramp as seismic-scale bedforms ranging from 100 to 700 m long and 15 to 50 m high. Dominant facies include crinoidal shales, packstones, and rudstones. Many of the beds are sharp-based and graded, indicating sediment-gravity-flow deposition. Upslope-inclined rudstones (backsets) and wavy beds with upflow and downflow laminae are common and indicate supercritical flow conditions. These observations and interpretations are in stark contrast to previous interpretations of crinoidal bioherms and Waulsortian-type mounds.

Basin physiography, a cool-water heterozoan carbonate factory and coastal upwelling were key factors in establishing a rapidly prograding ramp characterized by high rates of sediment production and basinward shedding. Sediment gravity flows and density cascades transported crinoidal grains downslope and entrained crinoids that inhabited the slope. Flows frequently reached Fr-supercritical flow conditions that led to the formation of sediment waves similar to those on modern marine slopes.

This sediment-wave field is one of the first to be documented in the ancient rock record, and its extent is enormous. The near absence of other reported ancient examples must be due to misinterpretation (mounds, slumps) and the problem of observational scale and resolution. Sediment waves are often larger than outcrops. Lack of recognition of sediment waves in subsurface seismic sections is probably due to misinterpretation and insufficient resolution. Perhaps this study demonstrates the need for revisiting and updating existing facies models of carbonate-sediment transport and depositional processes across slopes and basin floors.
Visualization Experimental Study on In-Situ Triggered Displacement Mechanism by Microencapsulated Polymer in Porous Media
Authors: Liu Yongsheng , Wei Bei , Cao Xulong , Song Kaoping , Yuan Fuqing , Xue Yu , Wang Jianyong , Tang Lei , Liu Yongge , Wei Zhijie , Zhang Jian , Hou Jian
Published: June 2024

Polymer flooding in deep reservoir profile control presents challenges in balancing injectivity and effective mobility control. To address this, we propose a solution by utilizing a microencapsulated polymer that can be easily injected and thickens over time. However, limited research has been conducted on the flow characteristics and the impact on oil mobilization by such profile control agents. In this study, we approximately simulated the time-varying flow process of microencapsulated polymer through in-situ triggered experiments at high temperature and pressure. The flow characteristics and oil displacement mechanism of the microencapsulated polymer under different trigger times were analyzed, and the displacement efficiency during the triggered viscosity enhancement process in porous media was quantitatively evaluated. The experimental results reveal that microencapsulated polymer exhibits a dual mechanism of near-wellbore reservoir particle temporary plugging and deep formation consistency control mechanisms. The transient aggregation of capsule particles alters the flow path, intensifying after expansion. The interaction between the microcapsule particles and the partially released polymer further enhances the resistance-enhancing property of the solution. The viscosity-enhanced microencapsulated polymer fluid improves the displacement efficiency. Microscopic oil displacement and coreflooding experiments resulted in a decrease in oil saturation of 39.5 and 18.33%, respectively. This study provides valuable microscopic insights into the flow behavior and oil displacement performance of microencapsulated polymer, offering essential guidance for optimizing oil reservoir extraction strategies.
Effect of alternative fuels on the emissions of a passenger car under real-world driving conditions: A comparison of biodiesel, gas-to-liquid, coal to liquid
Authors: Zhang Yunhua , Zheng Sen , Lou Diming , Tan Piqiang , Hu Zhiyuan , Fang Liang
Published: June 2024

Fossil fuel energy crisis and environmental pollution have initiated the scientific research on alternative fuels. Biodiesel (B100), gas to liquid (G100) and coal to liquid (C100) are superb selections to be substitutes for conventional diesel. To better investigate the emission characteristics of the alternative fuels mentioned above, a portable emission measurement system (PEMS) was used to carry out this study under real-world driving conditions. Results showed that the driving conditions had a notable effect on the vehicle emissions, the CO, THC and CO2 emissions were higher under urban condition and the NOx, PM (particle mass) and PN (particle number) emissions were higher under suburban condition. The expressway condition resulted in lower emissions except for PN due to more nucleation particles emitted. The use of B100, G100 and C100 fuels led to a reduction of more than 50% in the CO emission, especially for the C100, but the reduction effects for the THC were not obvious, and among them, G100 is the most prominent. Higher NOx emission was emitted after using the three fuels, especially for the B100, meanwhile, B100 increased the CO2, but G100 and C100 decreased the CO2 emission compared with D100. The PN emissions reduced by 1–2 orders of magnitude in comparison with those from D100 after using the three alternative fuels, and more than 50% of the PM could be reduced. B100 has the most significant particle reduction effect due to its oxygen-containing property, and it produced an evidently higher proportion of nucleation particles than D100, followed by G100 and C100.
Sequential Condition Evolved Interaction Knowledge Graph for Traditional Chinese Medicine Recommendation
Authors: Zhuo Hankz Hankui , Liu JIngjin , Jin Kebing , Yuan Jiamin , Yang Zhimin , Yao Zheng-an
Published: June 2024

The ancient art of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is distinguished by its extensive annals of utilizing nature's botanical emissaries to ameliorate a diverse array of pathological conditions. In practice, TCM diagnosis and treatment exhibit a pronounced degree of personalization and an organically holistic approach, necessitating a comprehensive consideration of the patient's evolving physiological and symptomatic states over temporal domains. However, existing methods for TCM recommendation represent a flaw in accounting for the dynamic oscillations in patients' conditions, instead restricting their explorations to potential correlative patterns between symptomatic presentations and prescribed remedies.
In this paper, we propose a novel Sequential Condition Evolved Interaction Knowledge Graph (SCEIKG), an innovation framework that conceptualizes the method as a sequential prescription-making problem by considering the inherent dynamism of patients' conditions across multiple diagnoses. Furthermore, we incorporate an interaction knowledge graph to enhance the accuracy of recommendations by considering the intricate interplay between various herbs and patients' states. Experimental results on the real-world dataset demonstrate that our approach outperforms existing TCM recommendation methods, achieving state-of-the-art performance.
NSUN2 promotes osteosarcoma metastasis via stabilizing UBE2S mRNA in an m5C-dependent manner
Authors: Wang Zhong , Chen Yu , Liu Liwen , Li Chao , Chen Cheng , Zhang Guizhen , Song Dong , Cui Guang , Ren Zhigang , Ranran Sun
Published: June 2024

5- methylcytosine (m5C) is a prevalent posttranscriptional RNA modification which participates in the initiation and progression of various cancers. NSUN2 is the main RNA methyltransferase import for catalyzing the m5C formation. However, its regulatory role and potential mechanism in osteosarcoma remain unclear. Here, we demonstrated that the NSUN2 expression was markedly upregulated in osteosarcoma tissues and cell lines. Clinically, increased NSUN2 expression was associated with poor prognosis. Functional studies revealed that NSUN2 significantly promoted metastasis and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in osteosarcoma. Mechanistically, integrated analysis based on RNA sequencing and expression correlation analysis identified UBE2S as a target downstream gene of NSUN2, while NSUN2 enhanced UBE2S mRNA stabilization in an m5C-dependent manner. More importantly, UBE2S overexpression reversed the inhibition of cell invasion and EMT induced by NSUN2 knockdown. Moreover, UBE2S interacted with and ubiquitinated β-catenin, enhancing its stability and activation. Interestingly, osteosarcoma patients with dual-high expression of NSUN2 and UBE2S exhibited shorter overall survival. In summary, our study revealed that NSUN2 facilitated metastasis by enhancing the UBE2S/β-catenin axis, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach for osteosarcoma.
Solvent extraction of lithium from brines with high magnesium/lithium ratios; Investigation on parameter interactions
Authors: Kia Anahita Kazemi , Mortaheb Hamid Reza , Salehi Mahsa Baghban , Nozaeim Ali Asghar
Published: June 2024

Solvent extraction of lithium from brine with a high Mg/Li ratio was investigated. Tributyl phosphate (TBP), ferric chloride (FeCl3), and kerosene were used as the extractant, co-extractant, and diluent, respectively. The mechanism of extraction process was studied by LC-MS, UV-VIS, and FT-IR analyses. Effects of organic to aqueous phase volume ratio (O/A) on the extraction efficiency and separation factor were optimized. The effects of major parameters including Fe/Li molar ratio, hydrochloric acid concentration, and TBP volume percent as well as their interactions on the lithium extraction efficiency were evaluated using central composite design. These major parameters represent interactions within their selected ranges. While the lithium extraction efficiency as the resposense value in the experimental design showed the most sensivity to the acid concentration, the separation factors were more affected by alteration in the TBP volume percent with the fixed optimum values of the other major parameters. The highest one-stage extraction efficiency of 76.3% and Li/Mg separation factor of 304 were obtained at the optimum conditions of Fe/Li= 2.99, HCl=0.01 M, and TBP= 55%. The Mg/Li mass ratio could be significantly reduced from 192 in the feed to 1.5 in the stripping solution. Based on the findings, a schematic diagram of the process including extraction, stripping, and saponification steps was proposed.
Sharenting: risks and awareness when parents publish sensitive content of their children on online platforms
Authors: Conti Maria Giulia , Parco Fabiola Del , Pulcinelli Francesca Maria , Mancino Enrica , Petrarca Laura , Nenna Raffaella , Mattia Greta Di , Matera Luigi , Regina Domenico Paolo La , Bonci Enea , Caruso Cinthia , Midulla F
Published: June 2024

Background The term "sharenting’' describes the increasingly popular habit of parents to share photos, videos, or other information regarding their children on their social profiles, through online platforms. It is highly likely that many parents are posting content about their underage children online with little knowledge of the risks associated with this practice. This study aims to investigate whether variables such as parents’ age, gender, marital status, occupation and educational level influence the practice of sharing child-related content and the degree of awareness.Methods We performed a pilot cross-sectional study, based on an anonymous questionnaire. An anonymous questionnaire was administered to parents of underage children attending the pediatric outpatient clinic of the Umberto I Hospital, Sapienza University, in Rome, by researchers, through the google forms platform; qualitative variables were generated on excel sheets and a statistical analysis was performed on SPSS Ibm-statistics using the chi-square test.Results 228 parents of children under 18 years of age completed the questionnaire (82% mothers, 18% fathers); 98% of the respondents used social media and 75% of them published their children’s related content online. Thirty-one percent of the compilers started their practice of sharenting in the first 6 months of life of their child. Our analysis showed that compared to parents who do not post online, parents who usually post online their children are significantly more likely to be partial employees or unemployed (p = 0,002), with lower educational level (p = 0,05), younger (less than 35 years of age (p = 0,01)) and have a high number of followers (p < 0,001). Finally, 93% of the compilers were not aware of the current legislation and of the risks related to the practice of sharenting.Conclusions Pediatricians, healthcare assistants and preventive healthcare professionals should play a central role in alerting parents and families to the risks of sharenting; the results of our study could draw their attention to the increasing practice of sharenting and make healthcare professionals active part in the protection of children.
Transcriptome analysis of Aeromonas hydrophila infected Channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus)
Authors: Li Xiaoyi , chen feng , Kong Jie , Shang Baodi , li zhengyou , Du Qiang , Zhang Xiaoping , Shen Xiaodong
Published: June 2024

Ictalurus punctatus are introduced species and successfully farmed freshwater fish in China. With the intensive farming of Ictalurus punctatus and water quality deterioration, the bacterial diseases have become a great concern of the industry. Nonetheless, data pertaining to molecular immunological responses, which could elucidate critical genetic information pertinent to the control and prevention of Aeromonas hydrophila infections, remain deficient for the species Ictalurus punctatus. In this investigation, we conducted a comparative analysis of transcriptomic alterations within the hepatic, cephalic renal, and splenic tissues of Ictalurus punctatus following exposure to A. hydrophila and phosphate buffer solution (PBS) as a mock infection at the 24-hour post-infection mark. In total, 2043, 2145, 2708 genes were up-regulated and 1797, 1753, 2669 genes were down-regulated in the liver, head kidney and spleen, respectively. GO and KEGG analysis showed that many DEGs were significantly enriched in immune terms, including immune system, immune diseases, signal transduction. 10 DEGs were selected for qRT-PCR analysis to validate the RNA-seq data and confirmed the consistency of the expression levels.This investigation offers an enhanced comprehension of the gene expression profile and the dynamic immunological response of Ictalurus punctatus following infection with A. hydrophila. Such insights will contribute to future research endeavors aimed at developing preventative strategies for Ictalurus punctatus.
Probabilistic deployment pathways of scaling up distributed green hydrogen systems for urban residential communities in North America
Authors: Zhong Lexuan , Wu You
Published: June 2024

In the context of the firm and enthusiastic development of renewable-based distributed energy systems, high-profit household collaboration strategies are widely recognized as essential for scaling up decentralized green hydrogen systems in urban residential communities. Here we develop bottom-up energy models linking climate, human behavior, and community characteristics to assess the cost-effective impacts of system deployment pathways on community green hydrogen systems for 7 North American climate zones in the 2030 ~ 2050 periods. Despite lower energy costs in moderate climate zones compared to hot and cold zones, a consistent pattern in deployment pathway impacts on costs is observed across all zones. The study underscores the critical role of selecting the right deployment pathway for urban decarbonization, with potential cost discrepancies of up to 60% between optimal and suboptimal options. Furthermore, energy storage demands significantly influence energy costs, emphasizing the need to prioritize increased energy storage in pathway design.
Impact of an in-consult patient decision aid on decisional quality, involvement, and health outcome for patients with severe hip or knee osteoarthritis – a study protocol for a multicentre, cluster randomised controlled trial (PATI-study)
Authors: Pedersen Trine Ahlmann , Lindberg-Larsen Martin , Jensen Charlotte Myhre , Timm Signe , Steffensen Karina Dahl , Varnum Claus
Published: June 2024

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) of the hip or knee is a widespread joint disease, often leading to replacement surgery. However, despite the high success rate of replacement surgery, some patients fail to experience the intended benefits. Given the importance of patient involvement, this trial aims to assess the effect of shared decision-making (SDM) on decisional quality for patients with severe OA. Specifically, it investigates whether an in-consult patient decision aid (PtDA) enhances decisional quality, involvement, and health outcomes for patients with severe hip or knee OA.
Methods: This protocol outlines a pragmatic two-armed multicentre cluster-randomised controlled trial (C-RCT) involving 19 orthopaedic surgeons randomised 1:1, stratified by centre, to either continue standard consultations or SDM with a newly developed in-consult PtDA. This trial intends to recruit 615 patients diagnosed with severe OA in their hip or knee. Surveys measuring decisional quality and disease-specific and generic health outcomes will be sent out at multiple time points: one-week post-consultation and three and 12 months post-consultation or post-surgery. The primary outcome (decisional quality) will be measured using the Hip/Knee OA Decision Quality Instrument and assessed based on the percentage of patients who are well-informed and receive their preferred treatment. The secondary outcomes include patient involvement in the decision-making process and consultation durations. The tertiary outcomes include patients’ satisfaction, regret and health-related outcomes.
Discussion: This study aims to contribute insights into the use of SDM facilitated by a PtDA and its impact on improving decisional quality for future patients with hip or knee OA.
Trial registration: www.ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05972525), Data of registration: 06.08.2023
Pathways to Sustainable Aviation: Aligning Flight Plans with Climate Goals
Authors: Simorgh Abolfazl , Soler Manuel
Published: June 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis exploring the potential of climate-friendly flight planning as an operational measure to mitigate the aviation sector’s climate impact. The analysis considers the effects induced by CO2 emissions and the most relevant non-CO2 forcing agents, including NOx emissions and contrail-cirrus. We demonstrate that the effectiveness of flight planning in mitigating climate impact is closely tied to daily meteorological conditions, serving as an important indicator. Therefore, smart adoption of climate-optimal trajectories, i.e., rerouting only under conditions where large climate benefits are achievable, effectively mitigates climate impact while maintaining operational feasibility through minimal changes to standard operations. Our analysis for the year 2022 indicates highly variable mitigation potential across different days, with a clear trade-off w.r.t. the operating cost. Seasonal variation in potential climate benefits is considerable, with summer showing the lowest potential and autumn the highest, linked to the likelihood of contrail formation. The findings suggest that flight planning is most effective at mitigating the climate impact of contrails, whereas reducing other non-CO2 impacts, including NOx-induced effects, tends to be costlier and necessitates extensive rerouting. Our work offers aviation policymakers a clearer understanding of the potential climate benefits achievable through flight planning and its associated implications.
Enhanced Electrochemical Performance of P(VDF-HFP)/PVAc Based Composite Polymer Electrolytes with Spherical Shaped ZrO2 Nano ceramic for Lithium-Ion Battery Applications
Authors: Chanderasekaran J.H. Rakini , Arun Lija , Arumugam Jagadeesan , Kesavan Karthikeyan , Ayyamperumal John Samuel , Moorthy Sasikumar , Selvam Vijayashree
Published: June 2024

Solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) are a promising substitute, offering benefits such as improved energy density and safety compared to liquid electrolytes. However, low ionic conductivity, poor mechanical strength, weak interfacial contact, and electrode metal corrosion may still be critical problems in SPEs. Here, a composite solid polymer electrolyte (CSPE) is prepared using the standard solution casting technique, incorporating P(VDF-HFP)-PVAc-LiTFESI-EC with hydrothermally derived spherical ZrO2 as a passive ceramic filler. Notably, incorporating 5wt % ZrO2 in the SPEs leads to a notable twofold increase in ionic conductivity compared to bare SPE. This improvement is mainly attributed to ZrO2 facilitating Li+ migration channels and immobilizing free anions, likely by suppressing the crystallinity of the bare SPE and its Lewis acid-base nature. Additionally, CSPE demonstrates high mechanical strength, excellent thermal stability, a wide electrochemical window, and favorable electrolyte affinity. This promising material is well-suited for developing robust and efficient electrolytes for various applications.
The effect of ultrasound-guided ilioinguinal/iliohypogastric nerve block for elective open inguinal herniorrhaphy under local anesthesia: two randomized controlled trials
Authors: Yin Feng , Yang Shiwei , Gao Fang , Yu Hai , Wang Yong , Liu Fei
Published: June 2024

Background
We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of ultrasound-guided ilioinguinal/iliohypogastric nerve (IIN/IHN) block for peri-operative analgesia in open inguinal herniorrhaphy (OIH) under local infiltration anesthesia (LIA) compared with no block (IIN/IHN 1 trial) and transmuscular quadratus lumborum block (QLB) (IIN/IHN 2 trial).
Methods
In the IIN/IHN 1 study, 88 subjects were randomized to receive an IIN/IHN block or no block before surgery. In the IIN/IHN 2 study, IIN/IHN block or transmuscular QLB were given to 108 subjects before surgery. All blocks used 30 ml of 0.33% ropivacaine, and patients received LIA during surgery in both studies. The primary outcome was the pain score at the dissociation of the preperitoneal space during surgery, which was assessed using a Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) in both studies.
Results
In the IIN/IHN 1 study, compared to the no-block group, the IIN/IHN group exhibited clinically reduced NRS scores at dissociation of the preperitoneal space (P = 0.004), clinically lower dynamic NRS scores at 6 h postoperatively, greater surgeon satisfaction, greater patient satisfaction and a lower incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (P<0.05). In the IIN/IHN 2 study, the NRS scores at the dissociation of the preperitoneal space were equivalent between the two groups (P = 0.517). Subjects in the IIN/IHN group had a shorter duration of surgery and a faster onset time of block than did those in the QLB group (P<0.05). There were no differences between the groups for the other endpoints.
Conclusions
Compared to no block, ultrasound-guided IIN/IHN block can provide better peri-operative analgesia for OIH patients underwent LIA. Moreover, the IIN/IHN block and transmuscular QLB are equivalent in providing peri-operative analgesia in OIH patients with LIA.
Trial registration:
http://www.chictr.org.cn , ChiCTR 2200056670, Date: February 10, 2022 for IIN/IHN trials.
The relationship between strength of central muscles, coordination, stability and fundamental movement scores in females with flatfeet: a cross-sectional study
Authors: ghrbani maryam , Yaali Rasoul , Sadeghi Hassan , Koumantakis George A
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Changing in the structure of the sole of the foot, including increasing or decreasing its arch, is one of the factors that expose the foot to injuries caused by physical activities. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to determine the relationship between strength of central muscles, coordination, stability and functional movement scores in females with flexible flatfeet.
Methods: Ninety-six female students between the ages of 18 and 25 voluntarily participated in this study. The Navicular Drop Test was used to evaluate the longitudinal arch of the foot. The participants were classified into flexible flatfeet (n=25) and normal feet (n=71) groups. Fundamental movement evaluated by the Functional Movement Screening Test (FMS); static balance using the Sharpened-Romberg test; dynamic balance using Y-test; Agility and coordination using 4×9-m shuttle run; endurance of the abdominal muscles and lumbar spine extensor muscles using respectively Partial curl-up and maintaining the plank position, were evaluated.
Results: The results of the independent t-test and Mann-Whitney U test showed a significant difference between the two groups in functional movement, abdominal muscle endurance, static balance and lumbar extensor muscle endurance variables (p≤0.05). In the normal feet group, a significant correlation was found between functional movements with abdominal muscle endurance, dynamic balance and agility.
Conclusion: the deformity of flexible flatfeet lead to deficiencies in people's health, movement performance and motor skill-related factors; therefore, according to this study, patients should be aware of this potential deficiency and paying attention to appropriate rehabilitation exercises for the conservative treatment of flexible flatfeet.
Rapid increase of C/EBPα p42 induces growth arrest of AML cells by Cop1 deletion in Trib1-expressing AML
Authors: Nakamura Takuro , Sunami Yoshitaka , Yoshino Seiko , Yamazaki Yukari , Iwamoto Takashi
Published: June 2024

Cop1 encodes a ubiquitin E3 ligase that has been well preserved during evolution in both plants and metazoans. In metazoans, the C/EBP family transcription factors are targets for degradation by Cop1, and this process is regulated by the Tribbles pseudokinase family. Over-expression of Tribbles homolog 1 (Trib1) induces acute myeloid leukemia (AML) via Cop1-dependent degradation of the C/EBPa p42 isoform. Here, we induced rapid growth arrest and granulocytic differentiation of Trib1-expressing AML cells using a Cop1 conditional knockout (KO), which is associated with a transient increase in the C/EBPa p42 isoform. The growth-suppressive effect of Cop1 KO was canceled by silencing of Cebpa and reinforced by exogenous expression of the p42 isoform. Moreover, Cop1 KO improved the survival of recipients transplanted with Trib1-expressing AML cells. We further identified a marked increase in Trib1 protein expression in Cop1 KO, indicating that Trib1 is self-degraded by the Cop1 degradosome. COP1 downregulation also inhibits the proliferation of human AML cells in a TRIB1-dependent manner. Taken together, our results provide new insights into the role of Trib1/Cop1 machinery in the C/EBPa p42-dependent leukemogenic activity, and a novel idea to develop new therapeutics.
Construction of Symmetric Mo/S/Ag Cluster Complexes from a Dinuclear Molybdnum Precursor [nPr4N]2[(edt)2Mo2O2(µ-S)2] (edt = -SCH2CH2S-)
Authors: Chen Meng-Ting , Liang Qing-Wen , Pan Song , Shi Hua-Tian , Jia Ai-Quan , Zhang Qian-Feng
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we have demonstrated that symmetric complexes [(edt)2Mo2O2(µ-S)2Ag2(dppm)2] (2, edt = 1,2-ethanedithiolate dianion, dppm = bis(diphenylphosphino)methane) and [(µ-Cl)2Ag4(µ3-Cl)2(dppm)2]·4DMF (3, DMF = N,N-dimethylformamide), were generated by combining a dinuclear molybdnum precursor [nPr4N]2[(edt)2Mo2O2(µ-S)2] (1) with two equimolar AgNO3 and dppm in DMF and CH2Cl2 mixed solutions. Treatment of complex 1 with AgBr in acetonitrile followed by addition of (NH4)2S produced a dodecanuclear Mo–Ag–S cage cluster [nPr4N]2[{Mo2Ag2S2O2(edt)2}3(µ6-S)]·1.5CH3CN (4). Complexes 2−4 have been characterized by were characterized by infrared, 1H NMR, UV-vis, and fluorescence spectroscopies. Moreover, molecular structures of complexes 2−4 have been established by single-crystal X-ray crystallography.
Monodispersed Mesoscopic Star-Shaped Gold Particles via Silver Ion-assisted Multi-directional Growth for Highly Sensitive SERS-active Substrates
Authors: Kim Sumin , Yoo Sunghoon , Nam Donghwan , Kim Hayoung , Hafner Jason Howord , Lee Seunghyun
Published: June 2024

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) exploits localized surface plasmon resonances in metallic nanostructures to significantly amplify Raman signals and perform ultrasensitive analyses. A critical factor for SERS-based analysis systems is the formation of numerous electromagnetic hot spots within the nanostructures, which represent regions with highly concentrated fields emerging from excited localized surface plasmons. These intense hotspot fields can amplify the Raman signal by several orders of magnitude, facilitating analyte detection at extremely low concentrations and highly sensitive molecular identification at the single-nanoparticle level. In this study, mesoscopic star-shaped gold particles (gold mesostars) were synthesized using a three-step seed-mediated growth approach coupled with the addition of silver ions. Our study confirms the successful synthesis of gold mesostars with numerous sharp tips via the multi-directional growth effect induced by the underpotential deposition of silver adatoms (AgUPD) onto the gold surfaces. The AgUPD process affects the nanocrystal growth kinetics of the noble metal and its morphological evolution, thereby leading to intricate nanostructures with high-index facets and protruding tips or branches. Mesoscopic gold particles with a distinctive star-like morphology featuring multiple sharp projections from the central core were synthesized by exploiting this phenomenon. Sharp tips of the gold mesostars facilitate intense localized electromagnetic fields, which result in strong SERS enhancements at the single-particle level. Electromagnetic fields can be further enhanced by interparticle hot spots in addition to the intraparticle local field enhancements when arranged in multilayered arrays on substrates, rendering these arrays as highly efficient SERS-active substrates with improved sensitivity. Evaluation using Raman-tagged analytes revealed a higher SERS signal intensity compared to that of individual mesostars because of interparticle hot spots enhancements. These substrates enabled analyte detection at a concentration of 10− 9 M, demonstrating their remarkable sensitivity for trace analysis applications.
Wet bulb globe temperature from climate model outputs: a method for projecting hourly site-specific values and trends.
Authors: Patton Erik , Li Wenhong , Ward Ashley , Doyle Martin
Published: June 2024

Increasing temperature will impact future outdoor worker safety but quantifying this impact to develop local adaptations is challenging. Wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) is the preferred thermal index for regulating outdoor activities in occupational health, athletic, and military settings, but global circulation models (GCMs) have coarse spatiotemporal resolution and do not always provide outputs required to project the full diurnal range of WBGT. This article presents a novel method to project WBGT at local spatial and hourly temporal resolutions without many assumptions inherent in previous research. We calculate sub-daily future WBGT from GCM output and then estimate hourly WBGT based on a site-specific, historical diurnal cycles. We test this method against observations at U.S. Army installations and find results match closely. We then project hourly WBGT at these locations from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2100, to quantify trends and estimate future periods exceeding outdoor activity modification thresholds. We find regional patterns affecting WBGT, suggesting accurately projecting WBGT demands a localized approach. Results show increased frequency of hours at high WBGT and, using U.S. military heat thresholds, we estimate impacts to future outdoor labor. By mid-century, some locations are projected to experience an average of 20 or more days each summer when outdoor labor will be significantly impacted. The method’s fine spatiotemporal resolution enables detailed analysis of WBGT projections, making it useful applied at specific locations of interest.
Integration of metabolomics methodologies for the development of predictive models for mortality risk in patients with severe COVID-19.
Authors: Cui Shanpeng , Han Qiuyuan , Zhang Ran , Li Yue , Li Ming , Liu Wenhua , Zheng Junbo , Wang Hongliang
Published: June 2024

Background
The global spread of Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has prompted the investigation of a predictive model for early mortality risk estimation in critical-type COVID-19 patients through the integration of metabolomics and clinical data using machine learning techniques in this study.
Methods
One hundred patients with severe COVID-19 infection, comprising 46 survivors and 53 non-survivors, were enrolled from the Second Hospital affiliated with Harbin Medical University. A predictive model was developed within 24 hours of admission utilizing blood metabolomics and clinical data. Differential metabolite analysis and other techniques were employed to identify relevant features. The performance of the models was evaluated by comparing the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC). The ultimate predictive model underwent external validation with a cohort of 50 critical COVID-19 patients from the First Hospital affiliated with Harbin Medical University.
Results
Significant disparities in blood metabolomics and laboratory parameters were noted between individuals who survived and those who did not. Two metabolite indicators, Itaconic acid and 3-Oxalomalate, along with four laboratory tests (LYM, IL-6, PCT, and CRP), were identified as the six variables in all four models. The external validation set demonstrated that the KNN model exhibited the highest AUC of 0.935 among the four models. When considering a 50% risk of mortality threshold, the validation set displayed a sensitivity of 0.926 and a specificity of 0.934.
Conclusions
The prognostic outcome of COVID-19 patients is significantly influenced by the levels of Itaconic acid, 3-Oxalomalate, LYM, IL-6, PCT, and CRP upon admission. These six indicators can be utilized to assess the mortality risk in affected individuals.
Surgical Outcome for Tetralogy of Fallot in an African Setting; a Tanzanian Experience Using Retrospective Analysis of Hospital Data
Authors: Majani Naizihijwa , Sharau Godwin , Mlawi Vivienne , Kalezi Zawadi , Mongella Stella , Letara Nuru , Nkya Deogratias , Kubhoja Sulende , Chillo Pilly , Slieker Martijn , Grobbee Diederick , Mohammed Janabi , Kisenge Peter
Published: June 2024

Background: Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is typically treated in infancy but often done late in many resource-limited countries, jeopardizing surgical outcomes. This study examined the results of TOF repair surgery at the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI) in Tanzania, an emerging cardiac centre in Eastern Africa.
Methods: A retrospective cohort study of children <18 years with TOF post-surgical repair between 2019 and 2021 was conducted. Data on socio-demography, pre-and postoperative cardiac complications, Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and hospital stay, and in-hospital and 30-day mortality were analyzed. Logistic regressions were employed to find the factors for mortality, ICU, and hospital stays.
Results: The I07 children operated on were majority male (62.3%), with a median age of 3.0 years (IQR: 2- 6). Almost all (90%) were underweight, with a mean BMI of 14.6 + 3.1 kg/m2. Only 18.7% were below one year of age. Haematocrits were high, with a median of 48.7 (IQR: 37.4-59.0). Bacterial sepsis was more common than surgical site infection (5.6% vs 0.9%). The median oxygen saturation was 81% (IQR:72-93). The median ICU stay was 72 hours (IQR:48-120), with ICU duration exceeding three days for most patients. The median hospital stay was 8.5 days (IQR:7-11), with 66% experiencing an extended hospital stay of > 7 days. The in-hospital mortality rate was 10.3%, with no deaths occurring in children less than one year of age nor after discharge during the 30-day follow-up period. No statistically significant differences were observed in outcomes in relation to clinical and demographic characteristics.
Conclusion: TOF repairs in an African setting face challenges associated with patients' older age and compromised nutritional status during the surgery. Perioperative mortality rates and morbidity for patients operated at an older age remain elevated. It’s important to address these issues to improve outcomes in these settings.