bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of digital image processing in determination of soil consolidation coefficient
Authors: paknejad Kamal , Ejlali Reza goli , Fattahi Saeyyed Javad Saeyyed , Javaheri Hossain
Published: April 2024

In geotechnical engineering, in order to perform analyzes related to consolidation settlement, appropriate values ​​of consolidation coefficient should be available. One-dimensional consolidation test with Casagrande odometer is a conventional method to determine the value of consolidation coefficient. Due to the recent significant developments in digital image technology in the field of geotechnical engineering and due to the reasonable costs and high accuracy of measurement, various researchers have used this technique in the analysis of soil deformation characteristics. In this research, the digital image processing (DIP) technique has been used to determine the deformation of the consolidation sample during the consolidation process. Due to the limitations of the conventional consolidation machine in terms of sample dimensions and also the lack of visibility of the sample and as a result the inability to take pictures, a new large-scale consolidation machine has been made. In order to ensure the proper functioning of the new device, 3 series of consolidation tests have been performed on Tabriz saturated clay samples with the new consolidation device as well as the conventional consolidation device. The comparison of the results shows that the consolidation parameters measured by the new device are comparable to the conventional odometer device. Then, by performing 4 series of consolidation tests with a new consolidation device and taking pictures of the sample during the consolidation process, the information related to the deformation of the sample was recorded and with the help of the DIP technique, the deformation of the consolidation sample, and as a result, the load-deformation information was measured and the consolidation coefficient of the samples has been determined based on them. The results show the accuracy and efficiency of the DIP technique in determining soil consolidation parameters.
DNA Barcoding and Diversity of Mammals in an Agricultural Landscape in the Northwestern Andes
Authors: Martínez-Cerón Juan M. , Porras Susan Saavedra , Diaz-Nieto Juan Fernando
Published: April 2024

The evolutionary history of species has become relevant to understanding and explaining the composition and structure of biological communities; however, we need to identify species clearly and have a phylogenetic framework to consider such a historical perspective. This study seeks to understand the community-level patterns of mammals in Andean highland forest remnants associated to agricultural landscapes. Our methods included fieldwork to survey small terrestrial mammals, bats, and medium to large species during two sampling periods in avocado plantations in the Western Cordillera of Colombia. We implemented three approaches to identify mammal species: traditional morphological identification, DNA barcoding, and phylogenetic analyses. We also evaluated the Phylogenetic Diversity of the mammal community of this study with other assemblages in montane forests. Our fieldwork recorded 738 records of 37 mammal species included in 13 families. Our study generated sequences for 18 mammal species of Colombia and ten new DNA barcodes, highlighting the importance of producing genetic libraries for Neotropical mammals. Our phylogenetic diversity analyses show that although our study area is more species-rich than other Andean localities, it has lower phylogenetic diversity values because many mammalian lineages are absent in these transformed ecosystems. We propose expanding the use of DNA-based species identification and Phylogenetic Diversity analyses to provide an objective characterization of the communities rather than simplistic and misleading parameters such as species richness.
Skeletal Muscle Mass, Strength, and Physical Performance Gains Are Similar Between Healthy Postmenopausal Women and Postmenopausal Breast Cancer Survivors After 12 Weeks of Resistance Exercise Training
Authors: Artigas Macarena , Alegría-Molina Andrea , Vidal-Seguel Nicolás , Muñoz-Cofre Rodrigo , Carranza-Leiva Juan , Sepúlveda-Lara Alexis , Vitzel Kaio Fernando , Huard Nolberto , Sapunar Jorge , Salazar Luis A. , Curi Rui , Marzuca-Nassr Gabriel Nasri
Published: April 2024

Background: Resistance exercise training (RET) has been shown to be effective in increasing skeletal muscle mass and strength in healthy postmenopausal women. In postmenopausal breast cancer survivors, however, the effects of RET on these parameters are reported as either controversial or limited.
Aim: To compare the effects of a 12-week progressive whole-body RET program, on skeletal muscle mass, muscle strength and physical performance in healthy postmenopausal women versus postmenopausal women who are breast cancer survivors.
Methods: Healthy (HEA, 54±3 years, BMI 26.6±2.7 kg·m2, n=13) and breast cancer survivors (BCS, 52±5 years, BMI 26.8±2.1 kg·m2, n=11) postmenopausal women were subjected to 12 weeks of progressive whole-body RET, three times per week. quadriceps muscle thickness ultrasound; one-repetition maximum (1RM) of leg extension, leg press, chest press, horizontal row, and elbow extension; grip strength and physical performance (6-minute walk test, dynamic balance test, and chair stand-up test) were assessed before and after the RET program.
Results: Quadriceps muscle thickness increased from 3.6±0.6 to 3.9±0.7 cm2 (5±7%) and from 3.5±0.50 to 3.7±0.5 cm2 (7±4%), in HEA and BCS, respectively (Time, P<0.001; η2=0.44) without differences between groups. 1RM leg extension strength increased from 57±10 to 80±15 kg (41±12%) and from 54±13 to 77±18 kg (43±16 %) (Time, P<0.001; η2=0.88) in the HEA and BCS groups, respectively. Similar improvements were observed for 1RM leg press, 1RM chest press, 1RM horizontal row, and 1RM elbow extension (Time effect: all P<0.001; η2≥0.85), and grip strength (Time effect: P=0.035; η2=0.19) in the HEA and BCS groups. No differences in responses to RET were observed between groups (Time×Group, all P>0.185; all η2 ≤0.09) for all strength outcomes. Physical performance showed significant improvement (all P<0.001; η2 ≥0.45), with no differences between groups (Time×Group, P≥0.05; η2≤0.05).
Conclusion: Twelve weeks of RET significantly increase skeletal muscle mass, strength, and physical performance in postmenopausal women. No differences were observed between healthy postmenopausal women and postmenopausal breast cancer survivors. These findings point out that this study's RET promotes marked skeletal muscle mass, strength, and performance gains regardless of breast cancer.
Trial registration: This trial is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT05690295 as of December 22, 2022
Development and Evaluation of a Cardio-Cerebrovascular Disease Prevention Education Program for Middle-Aged Women in the Community Using Self-Determination Theory: An Intervention Study
Authors: Lee Yein , Kim Yunhee
Published: April 2024

Background
This study aimed to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of a cardio-cerebrovascular disease (CVD) prevention program using the self-determination theory model of health behavior changes in middle-aged women in the community.
Methods
The effectiveness of the program was tested using a non-equivalent, control group, pre-post design. We recruited 59 middle-aged women who visited two community healthcare centers in City B, South Korea. The experimental group (n = 26) received a CVD prevention program, while the control group (n = 33) received only CVD prevention education materials and one general phone consultation. The program’s strategy was to meet basic psychological needs. The 10 educational sessions included eight face-to-face and two online education sessions, and there were four telephone counseling sessions. All data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0, independent t-test, and Mann-Whitney’s U test.
Results
Findings showed a significant difference between the experimental and control groups in autonomy (p < .001), competence (p < .001), relatedness (p = .004), awareness of myocardial infarction warning symptoms (p = .001), awareness of stroke warning symptoms (p < .001), health behavior practice (p < .001), loneliness and social isolation (p < .001), aging anxiety (p = .001), and resilient coping (p < .001).
Conclusions
The implementation of a CVD prevention educational intervention based on the self-determination theory model of health behavior changes significantly increased the physical and mental health and basic psychological need fulfilment scores of middle-aged women living in the community.
Robot-assisted fracture reduction system combined with TiRobot for the treatment of unstable pelvic fractures
Authors: Dai Yonghong , Wu Zhengjie
Published: April 2024

Objective
The reduction of pelvic fractures represents a global challenge. We have applied a robot-assisted fracture reduction (RAFR) system in clinical practice, addressing the limitation of the TiRobot's lack of fracture reduction capabilities.The purpose of this study is to discuss the early efficacy and Safety of the RAFR system combined with TiRobot in the treatment of unstable pelvic fractures.
Methods
A retrospective evaluation of 20 patients with unstable pelvic fractures treated with the RAFR system combined with TiRobot at Foshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine between May 2022 and August 2023 was conducted.
Results
With the joint intervention of the the RAFR system and TiRobot, all 20 patients successfully completed minimally invasive closed reduction and internal fixation of pelvic fractures. With the exception of one patient who was not followed up because he could not be contacted, the remaining patients were followed up for 6 to 19 months. All 19 patients had their fractures healed and their pelvic function was well recovered.
Conclusion
In our study, the intelligent robot-assisted pelvic fracture reduction system combined with TiRobot could complete intelligent, safe, accurate, minimally invasive, and homogeneous closed reduction and internal fixation for most patients with unstable pelvic fractures, and could achieve good early efficacy.
Relationship Between Social Participation and Depressive Symptoms in Patients with Multimorbidity: The Chained Mediating Role of Cognitive Function and Activities of Daily Living
Authors: Ge Huaiju , Dong Shihong , Su Wenyu , Guan Weimin , Yu Qing , Liu Yan , Qi Yuantao , Sun Xialing , Zhang Huiqing , Ma Guifeng
Published: April 2024

Objective: The potential mechanisms linking social participation and depressive symptoms in Chinese individuals with multimorbidity are not yet fully understood. This study aims to explore how cognitive function and activities of daily living (ADLs) mediate the relationship between social participation and depressive symptoms in individuals with multimorbidity.
Methods: We selected 3,782 participants with multimorbidity from the 2018 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. Data related to social participation, cognitive function, ADLs, and depressive symptoms were extracted.
Regression and Bootstrap analysis were used to explore the chained mediating effects of social participation, cognitive function, activities of daily living, and depressive symptoms.
Regression and Bootstrap analyses were used to explore the sequential mediating effects of social participation, cognitive function, ADLs, and depressive symptoms.
Results: Higher levels of social participation (coefficient = −0.2050, p = 0.023), good cognitive function (coefficient = −0.1300, p < 0.001), and good activities of daily living (coefficient = 0.2250, p < 0.001) were significantly associated with lower levels of depressive symptoms. Cognitive function and ADLs were found to have a chained mediating effect between social participation and depressive symptoms (total effect = −0.3530, 95%CI (−0.5314, −0.1746); direct effect = −0.2050, 95%CI (−0.3818, −0.0281); indirect effect = −0.1480, 95%CI (−0.1900, −0.1105)).
Conclusion: A chained mediating effect was found between cognitive function, ADLs, social participation, and depressive symptoms in patients with multimorbidity. Social participation was found to improve the cognitive function of patients with multimorbidity, which in turn enhanced their daily life activities and ultimately alleviated their depressive symptoms.
Potential Threat of Ceratocystis lukuohia on kiwifruit crop
Authors: Cassol Sabrina Angela , Keith Lisa , Pal Chandan , Alfenas Acelino , Alfenas Rafael Ferreira
Published: April 2024

Ceratocystis wilt, caused by Ceratocystis fimbriata, is the most severe disease of the kiwifruit crop in Brazil and represents a threat to other kiwifruit-producing countries where the pathogen has not yet been reported infecting kiwifruit vines. Ceratocystis species have been reported in many countries, some are host specific, while others can infect a wide host range. Given the high impact of the disease on kiwifruit, evaluating whether Ceratocystis isolates from other hosts and countries can also infect kiwifruit is important for implementing biosecurity measures. In the present work, we evaluated if C. lukuohia and C. huliohia, isolated from ohia (Metrosideros polymorpha) in Hawaii are pathogenic to kiwifruit cultivars. Inoculations of both species in rooted cuttings of Monty and Gold3 cultivars showed that C. lukuohia can cause wilt in both kiwifruit cultivars evaluated, with high plant mortality. This is the first report that C. lukuohia can infect another host, demonstrating that it is not host-specific and extends its host range. In addition, considering that C. lukuohia is pathogenic and lethal in kiwifruit vines, kiwifruit-producing areas must implement biosecurity measures to prevent the introduction of this species.
Cost-effectiveness of robot-assisted total hysterectomy for benign pathologies compared to laparoscopic surgery: a retrospective study with propensity score
Authors: Paul-Dehlinger Richard , Vappereau Alexandra , Bras Alicia Le , Oliveira Joana , Favier Amelia , BELGHITI Jeremy , Uzan Catherine , Durand-Zaleski Isabelle , Canlorbe Geoffroy
Published: April 2024

Background
Hysterectomy for benign pathologies is one of the most common gynecological surgeries. In recent years, robotic surgery has become an alternative to traditional surgery, but at a higher cost.
Objective
Estimate the cost of benign robot-assisted hysterectomy for the purpose of supporting public decision-making, as well as the additional cost per major postoperative complication (ClavienDindo score ≥ 3) avoided one month after surgery robotic versus traditional laparoscopic.
Methods
Single-center retrospective study including patients operated on for benign hysterectomy at La Pitié Salpêtrière hospital between January 2016 and December 2019 : 99 by robotic approach, and 86 by laparoscopic approach. Comparison of robotic surgery to laparoscopy. Calculation of a cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). Use of the propensity score inverse weighting method to ensure comparability of groups.
Results
Robotic surgery has a total cost of € 6,615 at 1 month per patient compared to € 3,859 for laparoscopic surgery with an additional cost of € 377,534 per major postoperative complication avoided, longer operating time and an absence of significant difference in terms of complications and length of hospitalization.
Conclusion
In terms of cost-effectiveness, according to this study, the robot does not appear to be better than laparoscopy. In the years to come, we can expect a development of robotic surgery with rationalization of the practice, with appropriate selection of patients for robotic surgery, development of outpatient surgery and a reduction in the cost of the equipment.
Genetically predicted dietary intake and risks of colorectal cancer: a Mendelian randomisation study
Authors: Hoang Tung , Cho Sooyoung , Choi Ji-Yeob , Kang Daehee , Shin Aesun
Published: April 2024

Background
Effects of confounders on associations between diet and colorectal cancer (CRC) in observational studies can be minimized in Mendelian randomization (MR) approach. This study aimed to investigate observational and genetically predicted associations between dietary intake and CRC using one-sample MR.
Methods
Using genetic data of over 93 million variants, we performed a genome-wide association study to find genomic risk loci associated with dietary intake in participants from the UK Biobank. Then we calculated genetic risk scores of diet-related variants and used them as instrumental variables in the two-stage least square MR framework to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for associations. We also performed observational analyses using age as a time-scale in Cox proportional hazard models.
Results
Allele scores were calculated from 399 genetic variants associated with the consumption of of red meat, processed meat, poultry, fish, milk, cheese, fruits, vegetables, coffee, tea, and alcohol in participants from the UK Biobank. In MR analysis, genetically predicted fruit intake was significantly associated with a 21% decreased risk of CRC (HR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.66–0.95), and there was a marginally inverse association between vegetable intake and CRC (HR = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.71–1.02). Weaker associations were observed in multivariable analysis, with HRs (95% CIs) of 0.99 (0.98–1.01) and 0.99 (0.98-1.00) per increment of daily servings of fruits and vegetables, respectively.
Conclusion
Dietary habits were attributable to genetic variations, which can be used as instrumental variables in the MR framework. Our study supported a causal relationship between fruit intake and a decreased risk of CRC and suggested an effective strategy of consuming fruits in the primary prevention of CRC.
In Vitro Digestion and Fecal Fermentation of Polysaccharides from Physalis alkekengi and its Impacts on Human Gut Microbiota
Authors: Zhang Yun , Bai Yuying , Fu Hongyan , Jiang Tianyu , Lv Ge , Zhang Lan , Yu Wenjie , Zhao Lin
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to investigate the effects of in vitro digestion and fermentation of Physalis alkekengi polysaccharides(PAP) and short-chain fatty acids(SCFAs) on the gut microbiome. Human saliva-gastrointestinal digestion and fecal fermentation were simulated in vitro. The results show that the molecular weight of Physalis alkekengi polysaccharides decreased from 8.07×104 to 5.60×104 during saliva-gastroenterization and from 8.07×104 to 1.18×104 after fermentation of feces for 48 hours. During gastric digestion, the level of reducing sugars increased from 0.887 to 1.153 mg/mL. Additionally, a considerable production of free monosaccharides was found during saliva-gastrointestinal digestion. Our data showed that the level of reducing sugars produced by PAPs increased during gastrointestinal digestion. Glucose release decreased with molecular weight, suggesting partial degradation of PAPs during gastrointestinal digestion. Further studies are warranted on the identification of the metabolites generated by polysaccharides from Physalis alkekengi during large intestine fermentation. Some beneficial bacteria, such as genera Bacteroides, Phascolarctobacterium, and Bifidobacterium, significantly increased after digestion and can ameliorate the level of harmful bacteria such as Escherichia-Shigella. These findings suggest that PAPs can alter the composition of gut microbiota and promote the production of beneficial short-chain fatty acids, such as acetic acid, propionic acid, and isovaleric acid.
The Effectiveness of Extract from Ambon Banana Stem Musa cavendishii var. Dwarf paxton for Prevention of Vibrio parahaemolyticus Bacterial Infection in Vannamei Shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei
Authors: Septarisa Geza Intan , Nuryati Sri , Sukenda Sukenda , Yuhana Munti
Published: April 2024

This study aims to evaluate the effect of administering Ambon banana stem extract through feed in enhancing the immune response, growth, and resistance of vannamei shrimp to diseases caused by Vibrio parahaemolyticus bacteria. The research used a completely randomized design consisting of five treatments, namely 2 control treatments (negative control and positive control) and three treatments containing feed with Ambon banana stem extract, namely 0.5 g kg− 1, 0.75 g kg− 1, and 1 g kg− 1 of feed. Shrimp were raised for 30 days and fed five times a day. On the 31st day, shrimp were challenged with V. parahaemolyticus at a dose of 105 CFU mL− 1, except for the negative control. The results showed that the dose of 0.75 g kg− 1 provided significantly higher growth performance (P < 0.05) compared to other doses and controls. Then a dose of 0.75 g kg− 1 was able to increase immune response significantly higher (P < 0.05) than other doses and controls. The bacterial abundance in the intestine at a dose of 0.75 g kg− 1 also significantly suppressed the growth of V. parahaemolyticus (P < 0.05) compared to other doses and controls. In addition, the survival rate of vannamei shrimp at a dose of 0.75 g kg− 1 was significantly higher (P < 0.05) compared to other doses and controls. The results of this research can be used as a reference for the optimal dosage for preventing V. parahaemolyticus bacterial infections using Ambon banana stem extract.
The Epidemiological Profile and Morbidity-Mortality Patterns of Technological Disasters in the Americas from 2000 to 2021: a cross-sectional study
Authors: García Andrea Fernández , Gan Rick Kye , Martínez José Antonio Cernuda , González Pedro Arcos
Published: April 2024

Background
Technological disasters in the Americas have significant public health and environmental implications, but there is limited epidemiological analysis of these events. This study aims to characterize the epidemiological profile of technological disasters in the Americas from 2000 to 2021, focusing on morbidity and mortality trends.
Methods
A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted. The ANOVA test was applied in the mean rates calculated for each type of disaster. The Mann-Kendall test assessed the presence or absence of temporal trends, and the Dickey-Fuller augmented test was used to determine if the time series were stationary. Predictions were made up to the year 2030 to mean mortality rate per million inhabitants, mean rate of affected individuals per million inhabitants, and mean rate of injuries per million inhabitants.
Results
A total of 733 technological disasters were recorded in the Americas. Statistically significant differences were found between the mean rates of affected individuals and the mean mortality rates per million inhabitants for each type of technological disaster. No trends were identified.
Conclusions
The highest rates of fatalities and affected individuals occurred within industrial accidents.
Integrated high-resolution electrical tomography and drilling cascading investigation of earth-rock dam leakage in a siltstone region: A case study of the Maoshan Reservoir, China
Authors: Xin Yanwen , Gan Jianjun , Liu Fangzhou , Si Zhihang , liu kaijun , tian tao
Published: April 2024

Piping, erosion at the contact of flowing soil, and leaching damage pose a serious leakage risk to earth-rock dams in the siltstone regions. With increasing reservoir operation time, seepage phenomena commonly occur in earth-rock dams, leading to progressively severe damage to the dam body. To understand the distribution of seepage in an earth-rock dam, including its location and magnitude, an imaging analysis of the dam structure is necessary. This involves determining the leakage positions and the underlying reasons. In this study, we conducted a high-resolution electrical resistivity tomography (HERT) investigation to characterize the leakage conditions of the Maoshan Reservoir earth-rock dam in the siltstone area of Jiangxi Province. To enhance the reliability of the HERT data interpretation, drilling, and water pressure tests were employed to validate the interpretations of low-resistivity zones. By applying this cascading survey and analysis method, we obtained spatial variability information on the apparent resistivity of the dam. The resistivity imaging of the entire dam revealed significant variations in apparent resistivity in the study area. Low-resistivity anomalies and high-resistivity anomalies were observed on both the upstream and downstream slopes of the dam. These anomalies represent saturated water channels and impervious bodies, with resistivities less than 200 Ωm and greater than 700 Ωm, respectively. The results of this study indicate that a cascading survey combining HERT and drilling is effective for analyzing the leakage positions of earth-rock dams, providing valuable insights for engineers in implementing effective anti-leakage measures in siltstone area reservoirs.
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Cesarean Section Delivery in Nepal
Authors: Pandit Sudesh , Thasineku Om Chandra , Karki Sujan , Sharma Sushil
Published: April 2024

Introduction Caesarean section delivery plays a crucial role in saving the lives of mother and child. This study assesses the prevalence and associated factors of cesarean section (CS) delivery in the Nepal.
Methods The data used for this study were nationally representative data from the Nepal Demographic and Health Survey 2022. Frequency and cross tabulation, simple logistic regression, and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses for adjusted and unadjusted odd ratios were performed to accomplish the study.
Results In Nepal, the prevalence of CS delivery is 18.2 percent in 2023. The research identifies regional and ethnic disparities, maternal education, wealth index, antenatal visit, place of delivery, and maternal age as significant contributors to the likelihood of CS. Geographical variations, emphasizing higher CS rates in the Terai region and urban areas, and disparities between provinces. The Dalit community exhibits significantly lower rates of CS by ethnic group. Highly educated women showed over a three-fold increase in CS. Wealth disparities reveal a more than sixfold higher likelihood of CS among the wealthiest group compared to the poorest. Extensive antenatal care, a positive indicator of maternal healthcare engagement, is surprisingly associated with heightened CS rates. Private health facilities have a six-time higher CS than public health facilities. Additionally, older maternal age presents a sixfold higher risk of CS.
Conclusion Along with the advancement of society, there seems to be an increase in CS, which is surpassing the World Health Organization's recommended range in Nepal. The study calls for interventions and healthcare policies addressing these multifaceted socio-economic and regional influences on CS rates in Nepal.
Joint K-means clustering and statistical analytical modeling of P- wave velocity and resistivity datasets for subsurface lithologic differentiation
Authors: Dick Mbuotidem David , Bery Andy Anderson , Bala Gabriel Abraham , Akingboye Adedibu Sunny
Published: April 2024

Given the hazards linked to unstable ground conditions, it is vital to grasp the soil-rock characteristics essential for foundation construction and groundwater development. However, the inherent challenges in geophysics, such as the non-uniqueness of the inverse problem and incomplete subsurface knowledge, hinder the direct interpretation of geophysical data in terms of geological units. Traditional soil exploration methods or relying solely on one geophysical survey method often yield inaccurate results due to limitations in mapping subsurface complexities and heterogeneities. This study addresses these challenges by applying K-means cluster analysis to a univariate geophysical parameter set spanning an 800 m section in the geothermally active Kabota-Tawau area of Sabah, Malaysia. Leveraging unsupervised machine learning techniques like principal component analysis, involving Silhouette and elbow methods, the research determines the optimal number of clusters (k) and validates their accuracy. The analysis identifies four distinct lithologic units, serving as proxies for soil/rock properties in the study area. With an R-squared value nearing 1 and an average Silhouette score of 0.67 for \(k=4\), the results indicate a high level of satisfaction in cluster separation, supported by a percentage sum of square error exceeding 88%. This approach enhances our ability to accurately identify lithologic units critical for improving the reliability of foundation construction and groundwater development efforts.
The safety and effectiveness of telemedicine for cancer-related colostomy care in early stage of discharge: A prospective, randomized, single-center study
Authors: Quan Haizhou , Wang Hongqiang , Yang Yu’e , Yu Hongwei
Published: April 2024

Background
There has been an exponential growth in the use of telemedicine services to provide clinical care. However, the safety and effectiveness of telemedicine in cancer-related colostomy care during the early stages of discharge remains unclear. This study aimed to prove that the safety and effectiveness of telemedicine for cancer-related colostomy care are not inferior to those of outpatient care.
Methods
This was a prospective, randomized, noninferiority study. A total of 76 consecutive patients who underwent cancer-related colostomy stoma were enrolled and randomly divided into a telemedicine group or an outpatient group with an equal allocation ratio (1:1). The outpatient group was provided in-person interview mode colostomy care, whereas the telemedicine group was provided video interview mode colostomy care. Using stoma-related complications, self-care ability and quality of life reflected the safety and effectiveness of colostomy care in the early stages of discharge.
Results
The incidence of stoma-related complications within 2-weeks and 1-month after discharge showed no significant differences between the two groups (P2 − weeks = 0.772 and P1 − month = 0.760). The NCI-CTCAE score for stoma-related complications was less than level 2. Patients with complications need not be hospitalized. The ESCA scores were 101.4 ± 13.9 and 106.3 ± 16.5, respectively, in the telemedicine group, and 101.8 ± 13.5 and 103.3 ± 13.4, respectively, in the outpatient group. The C-COH-QOL-OQ scores were 6.15 ± 0.91 and 6.34 ± 0.86, respectively, in the telemedicine group, and 6.27 ± 0.71 and 6.38 ± 0.61, respectively, in the outpatient group. The ESCA and C-COH-QOL-OQ scores were not significantly different between the telemedicine and outpatient group in 2-weeks and 1-month after discharge (all P > 0.05).
Conclusion
The results of this study revealed that the safety and effectiveness of telemedicine for cancer-related colostomy in the early stages of discharge were not inferior to those of outpatient care. When using telemedicine for cancer-related colostomy care, communication between the medical staff and patients is broken through the restrictions of time and place.
Bacterial BEF relationships: degradation metabolic trade-offs with growth rate but not with nitrogen processing pathways
Authors: Teigen Megan , Cuellar-Gempeler Catalina
Published: April 2024

Biodiversity-ecosystem function (BEF) relationships have been a major topic since the 1990’s, increasing in importance due to sustainability and extinction crises. However, the shapes of BEF relationships are not easily correlated with habitat, taxa, or diversity. We propose and test two predictors for BEF relationship shapes: 1) individual species growth rates (as indicative of coexistence and competitive abilities) and functional performance, and 2) BEF shapes of specific functions underlying a broader function.Darlingtonia californicais a carnivorous plant with modified leaves housing bacteria that contribute toward insect prey degradation and nitrogen provision. We isolated 14 distinct bacterial strains from fluid obtained fromD. californica‘s modified leaves. We grew the isolates in monoculture and mixed culture and evaluated each culture using degradation assays, and protein, ammonia, nitrate, chitinase, and protease quantification assays. We ask three specific questions related to our two proposed predictors of BEF shapes: 1) can we predict the function and assembly of a community based on individual species functions? 2) does a species function and growth rate correlate? 3) does degradation overall correlate with other functions in the metabolic processing of nitrogen? We found that increased degradative function was correlated with decreased species growth rates, highly functioning mixed cultures could result from both highly functioning isolates or moderately functioning isolates, and degradative function did not rely on nitrogen processing pathways. Our analysis suggests that BEF relationships present a metabolic trade-off between degradative function and bacterial division rates, but not with nitrogen processing. Additionally, while species with strong functional contributions can also be good competitors, they may also be poor competitors or play complex roles in community assembly.
Combined double-endoscopic treatment of intrauterine device ectopic bladder complicated with bladder calculi: a case report
Authors: Pang Wenyang , Du Zhongbo , Cheng Shulin
Published: April 2024

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a first-line contraceptive regimen recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and is widely used worldwide. Ectopic IUD to the bladder associated with bladder stones is rare, and there is no standard treatment. We report here a case of a female patient who presented with hematuria, initially diagnosed with bladder stones, and found intraoperatively that the intrauterine device had migrated to the bladder. We reviewed the literature to analyze possible causes and propose a new feasible minimally invasive surgical protocol.
Quantum Random Number Generation using Quandela Photonic Quantum Computer
Authors: de Souza Muriel A. , Agostini Flávia P. , Tarelho Luiz Vicente G.
Published: April 2024

Quantum mechanics, characterized by its intrinsically probabilistic nature, offers a promising avenue for random number generation, which is essential for applications such as cryptography and computational simulations. With the recent advancements in quantum computing and simulation, numerous studies have emerged utilizing these methods for the generation of random numbers. This research delves into the exploration of random number generation utilizing the Ascella photonic quantum computer developed by Quandela, renowned for its implementation of single-photon-based qubits. Leveraging both the Ascella photonic simulator (SIM Ascella) and the quantum processing unit (QPU Ascella) within the Perceval framework, this investigation examines the capability to generate random sequences through the superposition of quantum states, generated using photons and beam splitters. The analysis includes a performance comparison between simulations and experimental tests with the quantum computer, subjecting the outcomes to the NIST SP 800-22 randomness tests. While initial simulations suggested a high degree of randomness, practical implementation revealed certain disparities attributed to factors such as decoherence, imperfections in beam splitters and single-photon sources, as well as quantum noise. This study contributes to the understanding of random number generation on quantum platforms, identifying challenges and limitations while providing strategies for future enhancements in this quantum technology.
Synthesis of lithium conducting titanium phosphates by the sol-gel process
Authors: Guillot A. , Giaume D. , Suvorova A. , Rager M. N. , de Lacaillerie J.-B. d’Espinose , Mir C. , Randrema X. , Barboux P.
Published: April 2024

The synthesis of solid electrolytes based on titanium and lithium phosphates was studied using the sol-gel method. Particular attention was paid to phosphate precursors, which were mixtures of phosphate mono- and di-esters prepared by solvolysis of P4O10 in isopropanol. Reaction of these precursors with titanium and lithium alkoxides yielded homogeneous gels, and after drying and thermal cleavage of the esters at 300°C, amorphous inorganic products. For the composition corresponding to the stoichiometric formula of a stable compound such as LiTi2(PO4)3, the phase crystallized as early as 550°C by nucleation from the amorphous mixture. Ionic conductivity measured at room temperature was of the order of 10-5 S.cm-1 which increased after heat treatment at higher temperatures. If the composition did not correspond to a stable thermodynamic phase, phase separation occurred, and ionic conductivity decreased between 500°C and 700°C.
Comparison Between Surgical and Non-Surgical Management of Primary Hyperparathyroidism During Pregnancy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Shezifi Eli , Gozlan Gal Shlomo , Adnan Zaina
Published: April 2024

Purpose
Primary hyperparathyroidism during pregnancy is an uncommon condition that may have consequences for either the mother, newborn, or both. Treatment options can be surgical or conservative. This study aimed to compare adverse outcomes associated with surgical versus non-surgical treatment to determine the favorable management option. Additionally, the study investigated the correlation between serum calcium values and complication rates.
Methods
A systematic review of retrospective studies, case series, and case reports. Biochemical parameters, interventions, and outcomes of each pregnancy were recorded. The study population comprised two groups: the non-surgical and surgical groups. Adverse outcomes were categorized as maternal, obstetric, or neonatal. Statistical analysis was conducted to compare outcomes between the study groups.
Results
The surgical and non-surgical groups consisted of 163 and 185 patients, respectively. Among the entire study population, gestational primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) led to maternal, obstetric, and neonatal complications in 19.5%, 32%, and 26.7% of cases, respectively. Although the mean serum calcium was higher in the surgical group (12.3 mg/dL compared with 11.1 mg/dL for the non-surgical group), no significant differences were observed in maternal outcomes and overall obstetric outcomes between the study groups. A positive correlation was observed between the mean maternal gestational calcium value and both maternal and obstetric complications, but not neonatal complications. Nonetheless, neonatal complications occurred at higher rates across all calcium values when patients were treated conservatively (p < 0.001).
Conclusions
Given the significant difference in neonatal adverse outcomes across all calcium values in the non-surgical group, along with non-inferior outcomes in the surgical group, the overall data of this study suggest that parathyroidectomy is favorable to non-surgical management even in cases of mild hypercalcemia.
First Real-Time Imaging of Bronchoscopic Lung Volume Reduction by Electrical Impedance Tomography
Authors: Torsani Vinicius , Cardoso Paulo Francisco Guerreiro , Borges João Batista , Gomes Susimeire , Moriya Henrique Takachi , Cruz Andrea Fonseca da , Santiago Roberta Ribeiro De Santis , Nagao Cristopher Kengo , Fitipaldi Mariana Fernandes , Beraldo Marcelo do Amaral , Junior Marcus Henrique Victor , Mlček Mikuláš , Pego-Fernandes Paulo Manuel , Amato Marcelo Britto Passos
Published: April 2024

Background
Bronchoscopic lung volume reduction (BLVR) with one-way endobronchial valves (EBV) has better outcomes when the target lobe has poor collateral ventilation, resulting in complete lobe atelectasis. High-inspired oxygen fraction (FIO2) promotes atelectasis through faster gas absorption after airway occlusion, but its application during BLVR with EBV has been poorly understood. We aimed to investigate the real-time effects of FIO2 on regional lung volumes and regional ventilation/perfusion by electrical impedance tomography (EIT) during BLVR with EBV.
Methods
Six piglets were submitted to left lower lobe occlusion by a balloon-catheter and EBV valves with FIO2 0.5 and 1.0. Regional end-expiratory lung impedances (EELI) and regional ventilation/perfusion were monitored. Local pocket pressure measurements were obtained (balloon occlusion method). One animal underwent simultaneous acquisitions of computed tomography (CT) and EIT. Regions-of-interest (ROIs) were right and left hemithoraces.
Results
Following balloon occlusion, a steep decrease in left ROI-EELI with FIO2 1.0 occurred, 3-fold greater than with 0.5 (p < 0.001). Higher FIO2 also enhanced the final volume reduction (ROI-EELI) achieved by each valve (p < 0.01). CT analysis confirmed the denser atelectasis and greater volume reduction achieved by higher FIO2 (1.0) during balloon occlusion or during valve placement. CT and pocket pressure data agreed well with EIT findings, indicating greater strain redistribution with higher FIO2.
Conclusions
EIT demonstrated in real-time a faster and more complete volume reduction in the occluded lung regions under high FIO2 (1.0), as compared to 0.5. Immediate changes in the ventilation and perfusion of ipsilateral non-target lung regions were also detected, providing better estimates of the full impact of each valve in place.
Trial registration: Not applicable.
Revealing the superior effect of using prepared nano additives for the reduction of the nitrogen oxides, carbon mono oxide, and smoke emissions of the diesel–biodiesel blend.
Authors: Elgharbawy Abdallah Sayed , Ali mohamed , Kasaby Mosaad , Sadek olfat , elwardany ahmed
Published: April 2024

The world is forced to look for alternative ways of energy production due to the depletion of fossil fuels and many critical pollution problems that harm the environment. The most important alternative source of energy is biodiesel which is a type of fuel synthesized from natural resources such as agriculture wastes, used cooking oil, animal fat, and algae. Biodiesel is eco-friendly fuel and has characterized over petrodiesel by its lower aromatics, sulphur, and carbon emissions. Therefore, many countries currently use diesel-biodiesel blends as a fuel for many applications. Although this blend has many advantages, it has a critical disadvantage that it emits nitrogen oxides (NOx) gases when burning higher than pure diesel. In our study, we prepared different nano additives with different concentrations (50 and 100 ppm) to be added to the diesel-biodiesel blend (B30), then investigate their effect on NOX, Carbon mono oxide (CO), and smoke emissions. The prepared nano additives were nano amorphous titanium dioxide (TiO2), nano Copper oxide (CuO), and nano zinc oxide (ZnO). All prepared additives achieved a remarkable reduction in emission compared with diesel-biodiesel (B30) blend. Nano amorphous TiO2 achieved a superior reduction in all emissions compared to pure diesel and neat B30 as it achieves the highest NOx emissions reduction by 43.46% compared to B30 blend emissions at load 2 Nm and a concentration of 100 ppm. Additionally, the same concentration achieved 35% reduction in NOx emissions compared to pure diesel emissions at the same load. For the other additives, ZnO and CuO when added to B30 achieves a considerable reduction in emissions compared to neat B30, but when compared with neat diesel the nano additives exhibited a varied emission reduction.
Yunchengibacter salinarum gen. nov., sp. nov., a novel bacterium of the family Kordiimonadaceae isolated from sediment in Yuncheng salt lake
Authors: Guo Hao-Ran , Wang Fan , Yu Hui-Ying , Wang Chuan-Xu , Wang Zhuo , Fang Bao-Zhu , Li Xin , Li Wen-Jun
Published: April 2024

A Gram-stain negative, aerobic, motile and rod-shaped bacterium, light yellow to yellow bacterium, designated YC-2023-2 T , was isolated from sediment sample of Yuncheng salt lake. Growth occurred at 15–45 ℃ (optimum 37 ℃), pH 6.0–9.0 (optimum pH 7.0–8.0) and with 0–8.0% NaCl (w/v, optimum 2.0%). The phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene showed that strain YC-2023-2T belonged to the family Kordiimonadaceae. The closely related members were Gimibacter soli 6D33T (92.38%), Kordiimonas lipolytica M41T (91.88%), Eilatimonas milleporae DSM 25217T (91.88%) and Kordiimonas gwangyangensis JCM 12864T (91.84%). The genome of strain YC-2023-2T was 2957513 bp, and the genomic DNA G + C content was 63.91%. The main respiratory quinone was Q-10 and the major fatty acids (> 10%) were iso-C15:0, C16:0, C19:0 ω8c cyclo, Summed Feature 8 (C18:1 ω6c or C18:1 ω7c) and Summed Feature 9 (iso-C17:1 ω9c or C16:0 10-methyl). The major polar lipids consisted of phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), diphosphatidylglycerol (DPG), phosphatidylglycerol (PG), unidentified glycolipid (GL), unidentified lipid (L), and two unidentified aminolipids (AL). Based on the phylogenetic, phenotypic and chemotaxonomic characteristics, strain YC-2023-2T is proposed to represent a novel species of a novel genus named Yunchengibacter salinarum gen. nov., sp. nov., within the family Kordiimonadaceae. The type strain is YC-2023-2T (= GDMCC 1.4502T).
Evolutionary bet-hedging at the nanoscale
Authors: Kryuchkov Mikhail , Jobin Marc , Savitsky Vladimir , Smirnov Stanislav , Katanaev Vladimir L.
Published: April 2024

Evolutionary bet-hedging (EBT) is a theory describing a trade-off between the mean and the variance of fitness. It explains how in varying environments, lower-quality adaptations to a broader diversity of conditions (reduced mean fitness with low variances) can be evolutionary favored over an ideal adaptation to a specific narrow condition (high mean fitness with higher variances)1-5. Examples of EBT include strategies governing germination of desert annual plants, egg size variability of birds, metabolic switching in bacteria, and many more2,3,6. EBT at the nanoscale, however, has never been observed. Analyzing corneal nanocoatings7,8 across Coleoptera species (beetles), we here come across sexually dimorphic nanostructures garmenting eye surfaces of fireflies from the genera Lampyris and Luciola. While in Lampyris, as in other previously studied arthropods, corneal nanocoatings display dichotomy between the two competing functionalities – anti-reflectivity and anti-adhesion8,9, those of Luciola are surprisingly superb in both. Turing reaction-diffusion mechanism based on interactions of a protein Activator and a lipid Inhibitor governs assembly of corneal nanocoatings7,8; modeling predicts that the unique Luciola nanostructures can only form within a narrow set of parameters, suggesting the sensitivity of these insects’ vision to environmental conditions, such as temperature. Corroborating this prediction, the areal of Luciola is restricted to the mild Mediterranean, while that of Lampyris spreads across most of Eurasia. In a forward-engineering approach, artificial Turing nanocoatings can be produced8,10,11. We find that modifying the diffusion coefficient of the Turing Activator creates Luciola firefly-like nanocoatings whose parameter space is restricted as compared to the parental structures: they can form only in a narrowed range of temperatures. Our work thus describes the first example of EBT at the nanoscale; its translation to nanotechnology permits thermal control, through light interference and plasmon resonance, of surface nanopatterning for variety of applications.