bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Prophetic Law Approach to Reconciling Indonesia’s Uneasy Relationship with Cross-border Surrogacy
Authors: Setiawan Nur Heriyanto Dodik , Gasimzadeh Ulvi
Published: September 2024

The modernization of reproductive technology has made things easier for couples who are not yet blessed with children. Currently, the practice of surrogacy has been successful in providing children through surrogate mothers. Abroad, this practice can cross national borders, where the surrogate mother can come from a different nationality than the child's prospective parents. This practice is done to get good genes or offspring according to their hopes, especially if the couple rents a womb from a European or East Asian race. Two legal issues are studied in this research, namely those related to the legal status of the practice of surrogacy, which is cross-border according to private international law and Prophetic Law. Apart from that, this research also examines the urgency of regulating the practice of surrogacy in Indonesian law. This research, using a normative legal research methodology, concludes that even though the practice of surrogacy is considered legal based on private international law, from an Islamic Law perspective, this practice is strictly prohibited (Haram) because it obscures the child's lineage status. The law in Indonesia really needs to regulate the legal vacuum related to the surrogate mother practice both domestically and across national borders to ensure legal certainty.
Precision Pest and Disease Monitoring System using Agricultural Robot
Authors: Inamdar Rohan , Bhalerao Sushant R , Shinde Gopal U , Gupta Omkar
Published: September 2024

The agricultural industry prioritizes crop protection, particularly against threats like pink bollworm infestations in cotton crops. This paper presents a comprehensive solution using the Robot Operating System (ROS) to deploy an autonomous robot for detecting pink bollworm infestations and tracking red illnesses. Drones collect multispectral photos of cotton fields, aiding path planning via Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) computations. A bespoke dataset of RGB and multispectral images trained a YOLOv8 model for object detection, achieving a mean Average Precision (mAP) of 67.1%, Precision of 67.9%, and Recall of 61.8%. The robot was tested in two separate cotton fields, with rows around 20 meters long and the camera at 60 cm height for optimal real-time detection. The findings, compared to hand counts and confirmed against NDVI estimates, showed an average accuracy of 76.04% for B.T. Cotton and 67.54% for Organic Cotton fields. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed system in accurately detecting and managing crop threats. Combining ROS, drones, NDVI calculations, and a robust detection model, it provides a scalable approach for autonomous crop monitoring and protection, with the potential for broader agricultural adoption.
On the Natural Numbers that cannot be Expressed as a Sum of Two Primes
Authors: Szabó Peter
Published: September 2024

In this paper, a structural property of prime numbers will be introduced and analyzed. Our analysis is based on the application of the sequence of even integers 2,10,16,22,26,28… which is defined as follows: F(0) = 2, for i > 0, F(i) = F(i − 1)+ l, where l is the smallest even integer that is valid for: F(i − 1)+ 2k − 1 ∈ P, for k = 1, 2, . . . l/2-1, F(i − 1)+ 2k − 1 ∉ P, for k = 2l and P is the set of prime numbers. The sequence F answers the question, which are the natural numbers that cannot be expressed as a sum of two primes. We prove that numbers expressed as j = F(i)+ 1 cannot be written as the sum of two primes, for i = 1, 2, ··· .
Correlative Multi-scale Characterization of Nanoparticles Using Transmission Electron Microscopy
Authors: Neumann Stefan , Rafaja David
Published: September 2024

Chemical and physical properties of nanoparticles (NPs) are strongly influenced not only by the crystal structure of the respective material including crystal structure defects, but also by the NP size and shape. Contemporary transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is capable of describing all of these NP characteristics, however typically with a different statistical relevance. While the size and shape of NPs are frequently determined on a large ensemble of NPs and thus with good statistics, the characteristics on the atomic scale are usually quantified for a small number of individual NPs and thus with a low statistical relevance. In this contribution, we present a TEM-based characterization technique, which is capable of determining relevant characteristics of NPs in a scale-bridging way – from the crystal structure and crystal structure defects up to the NP size and morphology – with a sufficient statistical relevance. This technique is based on a correlative multi-scale TEM approach that combines information on atomic scale obtained from the high-resolution imaging with the results of the low-resolution imaging assisted by a semi-automatic segmentation routine. The capability of the technique is illustrated on several examples including Au NPs having different shape, Au nanorods having different facet configurations and multi-core iron oxide nanoparticles having a hierarchical structure.
Demographic Characteristics and Survival in Young Onset Colorectal Neuroendocrine Neoplasms
Authors: Vadehra Deepak , Sonti Sahithi , Siromoni Beas , Ramesh Mrinalini , Mukhopadhyay Debduti , Groman Adrienne , Attwood Kristopher , Iyer Renuka , Mukherjee Sarbajit
Published: September 2024

Recent epidemiologic studies have revealed an upward trend in young-onset colorectal cancer (YOCRC) overall, whereas specific data on young-onset colorectal neuroendocrine neoplasms (YONEN) remain limited. This study investigates demographic characteristics and survival trends in YONEN and compares these with those of young-onset colorectal adenocarcinoma (YOADC), the most common histologic subtype of YOCRC. A retrospective analysis was conducted from 2000 to 2019 using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Survival outcomes were assessed using univariate and multivariable Cox proportional models, with demographic differences evaluated via Wilcoxon Rank Sum and Chi-square tests. Out of 61,705 patients aged 20-49 with colorectal cancer, 8% had NEN, and 92% had adenocarcinoma. The YONEN cohort had a higher proportion of Black patients and a lower proportion of White patients than the YOADC cohort (21% vs. 13% and 44% vs. 57%, respectively). NEN was more commonly found in the rectum (79%), and adenocarcinoma was mostly colonic (57%) in origin. YONEN patients had better survival than YOADC patients. Multivariate analysis in YONEN patients revealed that Hispanic patients had better overall survival compared to White patients (HR 0.67, 95% CI 0.47-0.95, p=0.024). Racial disparities should be investigated further to aid in policymaking and targeted interventions.
Computational and Pharmacological Evaluation of Capsaicin-Mediated Inhibition of HPV 16 E6 and E7 Oncoproteins: Molecular Mechanisms and Implications for Cervical Cancer Therapy
Authors: Lukman Yusuf , Yusuf Abdulhaqeem
Published: September 2024

Cervical cancer remains a significant global health challenge, ranking as the fourth most common cancer among women. The primary causative agents, Human papillomavirus (HPV) strains 16 and 18, are well-known for their role in cervical carcinogenesis, primarily through the actions of the E6 and E7 oncoproteins. This study aimed to identify a natural compound capable of inhibiting both E6 and E7 oncoprotein activities, thereby offering a potential therapeutic approach using a single agent.
This study also comprises an extensive in silico analysis with molecular docking studies by AutoDock Vina and Schrodinger Maestro to analyse the binding affinity, hydrogen bonds interactions of selected compounds against HPV 16 E6 &E7 proteins. GROMACS package and iMODS server was used to perform molecular dynamics simulations of protein-ligand complexes to elucidate stability of the ligands around the receptor at different time points. SwissADME was utilized for the prediction of pharmacokinetic properties while PROTOX-II helped in predicting toxicological data
Capsaicin emerged as the most promising candidate, exhibiting binding energies of -7.3 kcal/mol and -5.6 kcal/mol against the HPV 16 E6 and E7 proteins, respectively. Notably, Capsaicin formed a single hydrogen bond with each oncoprotein, indicating a strong and specific interaction. The compound also demonstrated a favourable pharmacokinetic profile, with no violations of drug-likeness rules, and was classified as Toxicity Class 4, suggesting a moderate safety profile.
These results, thus branding Capsaicin as a promising lead compound for further investigations in cervical cancer therapy that deserves documentation through well-equipped wet lab experiments followed by clinical studies.
Sympathetic Innervation of Interscapular Brown Adipose Tissue is not a Predominant Mediator of Oxytocin-Induced Brown Adipose Tissue Thermogenesis in Female High Fat Diet-Fed Rats
Authors: Dodson Andrew D. , Herbertson Adam J. , Honeycutt Mackenzie K. , Vered Ron , Slattery Jared D. , Goldberg Matvey , Tsui Edison , Wolden-Hanson Tami , Graham James L. , Wietecha Tomasz A. , O'Brien Kevin D. , Havel Peter J. , Sikkema Carl L. , Peskind Elaine R. , Mundinger Thomas O. , Taborsky, Jr. Gerald J. , Blevins James E.
Published: September 2024

Previous studies in our lab show that that administration of OT into the fourth ventricle (4V; hindbrain) elicits weight loss and stimulates interscapular brown adipose tissue temperature (TIBAT) in male DIO rats. What remains unclear is whether chronic hindbrain (4V) OT can impact body weight in female high fat diet-fed (HFD) rodents and whether this involves activation of BAT. We hypothesized that OT-elicited stimulation of sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activation of IBAT contributes to its ability to activate BAT and reduce body weight in female high fat diet-fed rats. To test this hypothesis, we determined the effect of disrupting SNS activation of IBAT on OT-elicited stimulation of TIBAT and reduction of body weight in DIO rats. We first measured the impact of bilateral surgical SNS denervation to IBAT on the ability of acute 4V OT (0.5, 1, and 5 µg ≈ 0.5, 0.99, and 4.96 nmol) to stimulate TIBAT in female HFD-fed rats. We found that the high dose of 4V OT (5 µg ≈ 4.96 nmol) stimulated TIBAT similarly between sham rats and denervated rats (P=NS). We subsequently measured the effect of bilateral surgical denervation of IBAT on the effect of chronic 4V OT (16 nmol/day ≈ 16.1 mg/day) or vehicle infusion to reduce body weight, adiposity and energy intake in female HFD-fed rats (N=7-8/group). Chronic 4V OT reduced body weight gain (sham: -18.0±4.9 g; denervation: -15.9±3.7 g) and adiposity (sham: -13.9±3.7 g; denervation: -13.6±2.4 g) relative to vehicle treatment (P<0.05) and these effects were similar between groups (P=NS). These effects were attributed, in part, to reduced energy intake evident during weeks 2 (P<0.05) and 3 (P<0.05). To test whether these results translate to other female rodent species, we also examined the effect of chronic 4V infusion of OT on body weight and adiposity in two strains of female HFD-fed mice. Similar to what we found in the HFD-fed rat model, we also found that chronic 4V OT (16 nmol/day) infusion resulted in reduced body weight gain, adiposity and energy intake in female DIO C57BL/6J and DBA/2J mice (P<0.05 vs vehicle). Together, these findings suggest that 1) sympathetic innervation of IBAT is not necessary for OT-elicited increases in BAT thermogenesis and weight loss in female HFD-fed rats and 2) the effects of OT to elicit weight loss translate to other mouse models of diet-induced obesity.
The Therapeutic Effect of Monopolar Radiofrequency Therapy on Urinary Symptoms and Sexual Function
Authors: Long Cheng-Yu , Chang Chieh-Yu , Sung I-Chieh , Loo Zi-Xi , Lin Kun-Ling
Published: September 2024

Objectives: Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) negatively affects the quality of life and sexual function in women. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of radiofrequency (RF) therapy in reducing SUI symptoms and its impact on sexual function. Methods: Thirty-four women with SUI were enrolled and underwent a single RF treatment session using the Viveve® System (Viveve Medical Inc., USA) with parameters of 90 J/cm² and 220 pulses per hour. Assessments at baseline and 6 months post-treatment included perineal ultrasound and personal interviews to evaluate lower urinary tract symptoms and sexual function. Urodynamic studies, voiding diaries, and questionnaires such as the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Overactive Bladder Symp-tom Score (OABSS), Urogenital Distress Inventory-6 (UDI-6), Incontinence Impact Question-naire-7 (IIQ-7), and International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF) measured outcomes. Results: RF therapy significantly improved sexual function, with higher FSFI scores in all domains except pain at 6 months. SUI symptoms were significantly re-duced, as indicated by improved scores on OABSS, UDI-6, IIQ-7, and ICIQ-SF, alongside better voiding diary results. Anatomical changes included reduced bladder neck mobility, decreased vaginal width, and a reduced rotation angle of the proximal urethra. Conclusions: RF therapy is effective and safe for treating mild to moderate SUI and enhances sexual function, potentially due to changes in vaginal topography. These results suggest RF therapy as a viable non-surgical op-tion for managing SUI and improving sexual health.
How Automated Machine Learning Can Boost Business
Authors: Rosário Albérico Travassos , Boechat Anna Carolina
Published: September 2024

Automated Machine Learning (AutoML) is revolutionizing how businesses utilize data, making advanced analytics accessible to a broader range of organizations. By automating complex tasks like data preprocessing, model selection, and hyperparameter tuning, AutoML reduces the time and resources needed to develop and deploy machine learning models. This accelerates decision-making and enables quicker responses to market changes. AutoML empowers businesses to build accurate predictive models using sophisticated algorithms, optimizing model performance for reliable insights and better outcomes. A key advantage of AutoML is its accessibility; even organizations without a dedicated data science team can leverage machine learning, reducing technical barriers and democratizing innovation. As businesses grow, AutoML scales to handle larger datasets and more complex problems without extensive manual intervention. AutoML enhances efficiency, accuracy, and scalability, becoming a crucial driver of business innovation and success. The systematic review will examine the bibliometric literature on how AutoML can boost business, analyzing 74 academic and scientific documents from the Scopus database.
Role of Morphology on Zinc Oxide Nanostructures for Efficient Photoelectrochemical Activity and Hydrogen Production
Authors: Fallatah Ahmad , Kuku Mohammed , Alqahtani Laila , Bubshait Almqdad , Almutairi Noha S. , Padalkar Sonal , Alotaibi Abdullah M.
Published: September 2024

Energy generation now heavily relies on the field of photocatalysis. Many conventional research topics have been superseded by the conversion of solar energy into chemical or thermal energy for a variety of energy-related applications. The urgent necessity of moving away from non-renewable energy sources is a result of the problem of global warming. In an effort to create the best photocatalysts for effective solar conversion, scientists are investigating a variety of material systems and material combinations. By examining the influence of morphology changes on the photoelectrochemical activity of zinc oxide nanostructures, here electrodeposition was used to create the nanostructures. By using the proper capping agents, it is possible to control the growth rates of different ZnO facets and get well-defined nanostructures and orientation. In order to generate distinct ZnO morphologies, we report here the electrodeposition of ZnO nanostructured thin films in the presence of different capping agents. A zinc nitrate (Zn (NO₃)₂) bath was used to electrodeposit ZnO nanostructures on indium tin oxide glass (ITO) substrate at 70 °C with an applied potential of -1.0 V. Capping agents such as ethylenediamine (EDA) or ammonium fluoride (NH₄F) were added to this zinc nitrate bath. The photoelectrochemical capabilities of the morphology-controlled zinc oxide nanostructures were extensively evaluated and characterised. Thus various ZnO morphologies had an impact on the PEC properties.
Application of Molecular Modeling and Machine Learning Models to Predict Novel FmlH-Binding Glycomimetics with Improved Pharmacokinetic Properties for the Prevention of Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Samanta Priyanka , Doerksen Robert J.
Published: September 2024

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) affect nearly 50% of women in their lifetime. Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) expresses F9/Fml pili tipped with protein FmlH that specifically bind to terminal galactoside and galactosaminoside units in glycoproteins in kidney and bladder cells and colonize host tissues. Traditional UTI treatment using excessive antibiotics has led to the rise of various UPEC antibiotic-resistant strains. An alternative therapeutic approach prevents the initial bacterial attachment on the host cells using competitive FmlH-binding inhibitors. In this study, we have used computer-aided drug design techniques to identify novel glycomimetics that are predicted to bind strongly to UPEC FmlH and inhibit binding to host glycoproteins. We have performed in-silico receptor-based and ligand-based scaffold hopping, and molecular docking to predict novel FmlH-binding glycomimetics with high chemical synthesizability. We have replaced the two major scaffolds of the most potent known FmlH-binding ligand to obtain novel compounds. Additionally, we have applied global machine-learning models to predict ADMET properties of the molecules. Compounds with calculated low ADMET risks were subjected to molecular dynamics simulations and detailed investigation of the FmlH–glycomimetic interactions was performed. We have prepared and supplied a library of 58 novel glycomimetics that can be subjected to further biological activity studies.
The Impact of Cybersecurity on the Advancement of IoT: Challenges, Opportunities and Future Directions
Authors: Biplob Md. Badiuzzaman , Ahmed Arif , Zannat Tasnia , Konika Mahmuda Samia , Ahsan Kazi Mohammad Moinul
Published: September 2024

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a disruptive technology innovation that has the potential to link billions of gadgets and alter multiple industries. The Internet of Things (IoT) represents a significant advancement in the networking of devices and systems. However, because IoT devices add new attack avenues and vulnerabilities to networks, their rapid proliferation has also caused serious cyber security concerns. The present study investigates the influence of cyber security on the progress of the Internet of Things (IoT), emphasizing the obstacles, prospects, and future paths towards safeguarding the IoT network. This study attempts to shed light on the crucial role that cyber security will play in determining the direction of the Internet of Things through an examination of recent trends, case studies, and research findings.
Circadian Rhythm and Physical Fatigue Separately Influence Cognitive and Physical Performance in Amateur Athletes
Authors: Karanika Panagiota , Gallardo Philip , Tsatalas Themistoklis , Giakas Giannis , Tsaklis Panagiotis V.
Published: September 2024

Circadian rhythm (CR) influences various physiological functions, including physical and cognitive performance, which fluctuate throughout the day. The present study aimed to investigate the combined and separate effects of CR and physical fatigue on cognitive and physical performance. A sample of 18 amateur athletes was subjected to a series of tests at three different times of the day: morning, afternoon, and evening. Fatigue was induced following isokinetic concentric exercise combined with a 20-minute treadmill run, followed by assessments of selected physical and cognitive tasks. Repeated measures ANOVA did not reveal an interaction between CR and fatigue in cognitive performance (p > 0.05). However, a significant main effect of fatigue was observed in visual reaction time (VisRT) across all three time points. Moreover, peak torque (PT) and peak torque fatigue index (PTFI) showed significant differences between the three times of the day, peaking in the evening. Although we found no interaction between CR and physical fatigue state on selected cognitive parameters at the three times of day, a separate effect of fatigue on cognitive performance was identified. Additionally, physical parameters exhibited peak values occurring in the evening hours. Future research should further explore underlying mechanisms that potentially influence cognitive performance at different times of the day.
Metabolomics and Lipidomics Techniques, Databases and Software Used for Studying Gastrointestinal Parasites of Animals
Authors: Wangchuk Phurpa , Yeshi Karma
Published: September 2024

Gastrointestinal parasites (GIP) are diverse parasitic organisms known to have coevolved with bacterial populations inside the gut of mammalian hosts. These helminths produce small molecules, peptides and proteins to evade or fight their hosts' immune systems. Small molecules include polar compounds, amino acids, lipids and carbohydrates. Metabolomics is an emerging field of research recently applied to study helminth infections and host-parasite interactions. This review comprehensively discusses metabolomics studies of small molecules of GIP in animals, providing insights into the available tools and techniques, databases, and analytical software. Most metabolomics investigations employed LC-MS, MS or MS/MS, NMR, or a combination thereof. Recent advancements in metabolomics platforms, including artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted software tools and databases, have propelled helminth metabolomics forward, offering new avenues to explore host-parasite interactions, immunomodulation, and the intricacies of parasitism. As our understanding of helminth metabolomics continues to expand, it promises to unveil novel perspectives and enrich the knowledge of these complex host-parasite relationships.
A Duality Principle and Related Convex Dual Approximate Formulation Applied to a Non-Linear Plate Model
Authors: Botelho Fabio
Published: September 2024

This article develops a duality principle applicable to originally non-convex primal variational formulations. More specifically, as a first application, we establish a convex dual approximate variational formulation for a non-linear Kirchhoff-Love plate model. The results are obtained through basic tools of functional analysis, calculus of variations, duality and optimization theory in infinite dimensional spaces. We emphasize such a final convex dual approximate formulation obtained may be applied to a large class of similar models in the calculus of variations.
Machine Learning Discoveries of TNF-X Synergy in ETC-1922159 Treated Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Sinha Shriprakash
Published: September 2024

Often, in biology, we are faced with the problem of exploring relevant unknown biological hypotheses in the form of myriads of combinations of factors/genes/proteins that might be affecting the pathway under certain conditions. In colorectal cancer (CRC) cells treated with ETC-1922159, many genes were found up and down regu- lated, individually. A recently developed search engine ranked combinations of Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-X (X, a particular gene/protein) at 2nd order level after drug administration. These rankings reveal which TNF-X combinations might be working synergistically in CRC. If found true, oncologists can further test the combination of interest in wet lab and determine the mechanism of functioning between the TNF and X. In this research work, we cover combinations of TNF with Wnt, mucin (MUC), six transmembrane epithelial antigen of prostate 4 (STEAP4), ubiquitin conjugating enzyme E2 (UBE2) family and BCL family.
Rememorar o Golpe de 1964 em tempos de retrocessos democráticos: desafios ao ensino de História
Authors: Bomfim Martins Marcus Leonardo
Published: September 2024

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Demographics, Indications, and Revision Rates for Radial Head Arthroplasty
Authors: Kumar Narinder , Gabbe Belinda J. , Page Richard S. , Soh Sze-Ee , Gill David R.J. , Harries Dylan , Ackerman Ilana N.
Published: September 2024

Background:

Population-level data from national arthroplasty registries enable the use and outcomes of arthroplasty procedures to be monitored over time. This study aimed to describe the demographics, indications, and outcomes (up to 15 years) for radial head arthroplasty (RHA) procedures in Australia, as well as the factors associated with an increased likelihood of revision.

Methods:

Individual-level deidentified data on demographics and surgery characteristics, including revision surgery, were obtained from the Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry for all primary isolated RHA procedures that had been performed from 2007 to 2021. The probability of prosthesis survival was determined using Kaplan-Meier estimates. Cox proportional hazards models were used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) for revision.

Results:

A total of 3,457 primary RHAs were performed during the study period (mean follow-up, 5.6 years; range, 0 to 15 years). The mean age at the time of RHA was 53 years, with female predominance (n = 2,009, 58%). The most common indication for RHA was fracture or dislocation (n = 3,166, 92%), followed by osteoarthritis (n = 232, 7%). The radial head prostheses that were most commonly used were monopolar (n = 3,378, 98%) with a modular design (n = 3,442, 99.6%) and cementless fixation (n = 3,387, 98%). Both metallic and nonmetallic prostheses were used (52% and 48%, respectively). Of the total cohort, 160 revisions (5%) were performed during the 15-year period; most revisions occurred in the first 5 years. The most common revision indication was prosthesis loosening (n = 62, 39%), and 54% of the revisions (n = 87) involved a change of the radial component. In multivariable analysis, primary procedures for osteoarthritis (HR, 1.65; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01 to 2.70) or “other” indications (e.g., inflammatory arthritis, osteonecrosis, or tumor) were revised more frequently (HR, 3.68; 95% CI, 1.14 to 11.91) than procedures for fracture or dislocation. Procedures with nonmetallic prostheses had higher rates of revision (HR, 1.61; 95% CI, 1.17 to 2.22) than those with metallic prostheses.

Conclusions:

Trauma remained the most prevalent indication for RHA in Australia from 2007 to 2021. Encouragingly, revision rates were low, most notably for RHA that had been performed for fracture or dislocation. The likelihood of revision was highest for RHA procedures performed for osteoarthritis and for an indication other than osteoarthritis or trauma. Nonmetallic prostheses had a higher rate of revision than metallic prostheses.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Patients’ Preferences for Bone-Anchored Prostheses After Lower-Extremity Amputation
Authors: Saleib Gabriel-Kyrillos M. , Jonker Marcel F. , Van Vledder Mark G. , Verhofstad Michael H.J. , Paping Maria A. , Leijendekkers Ruud A. , Van Waes Oscar J.F.
Published: September 2024

Background:

The rising popularity and use of a bone-anchored prosthesis (BAP) involving an osseointegrated implant for patients with lower-limb amputations experiencing socket-related issues have led to increased interest in the measurement of clinical and functional outcomes. However, the value of BAP treatment characteristics from the patient perspective has not yet been investigated. This study aimed to determine the relative importance of specific BAP characteristics, and the effect of complications in quality-of-life (QoL) points and monetary utility decrement (loss [€]), using a 2-center discrete choice experiment (DCE) conducted in The Netherlands.

Methods:

A DCE was developed that included the most salient characteristics of BAP treatment based on a review of the literature and qualitative and quantitative methods. The following characteristics were selected: QoL change, short- and long-term complications, osseointegrated implant survival, and out-of-pocket contributions (costs). Patients aged 18 to 99 years who were eligible for, or had already received, an osseointegrated implant were invited to participate, after informed consent, to elicit BAP treatment preferences. A Bayesian mixed logit model was used.

Results:

Two hundred and forty-seven completed surveys were collected; 64% of the patients were male, 73% had undergone a transfemoral amputation, and 33% had >36 months of experience with a BAP. Patients considered long-term complications and QoL the most important characteristics. Long-term complications were 3.4 times more important than short-term complications. Opting out was undesirable, and patients valued better and beneficial levels (associated with better outcomes) of BAP characteristics positively. Implant removal was the level with the greatest loss among all complications, at 1.15 (95% credible interval [CI], 0.96 to 1.38) QoL points and €16,940 (95% CI, €14,780 to €19,040) loss.

Conclusions:

To our knowledge, this is the first study to use a DCE to elicit patients’ preferences regarding BAP treatment, outcomes, and related complications; we found that patients strongly care about long-term complications. The results suggest that osseointegrated implant teams and policy-makers should consider these areas when proposing treatment protocols. Furthermore, policy and clinical guidelines for BAP treatment could be enhanced by our results with respect to patients’ perspectives, management of patients’ expectations, and associated losses in QoL points and monetary loss secondary to complications.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Extensile Anterior Approach for Total Hip Arthroplasty in a Patient with Crowe IV Hip Dysplasia and Klippel-Trénaunay Syndrome
Authors: Muffly Brian T. , Tocio Adam J. , Singh Keerat
Published: September 2024

Case:

We report a 17-year-old boy with Klippel-Trénaunay syndrome (KTS) who underwent total hip arthroplasty with subtrochanteric shortening osteotomy through an extensile direct anterior approach (DAA) in the setting of Crowe IV hip dysplasia. The patient was transitioned from toe-touch weight-bearing to a progressive weight-bearing protocol at 6 weeks postoperatively and was ambulating painlessly at 3 months.

Conclusion:

Patients with KTS undergoing orthopaedic surgical intervention necessitate a multidisciplinary approach to care. This case demonstrates that THA in Crowe IV hip dysplasia with an associated subtrochanteric shortening osteotomy can be safely and successfully performed through an extensile DAA in this population.
Painful Entrapment of the Lateral Antebrachial Cutaneous Nerve After Distal Biceps Repair
Authors: Ford Brian T. , Caputo Andrew E.
Published: September 2024

Case:

A 46-year-old man presented with continued pain after distal biceps repair. On revision surgery, he was found to have entrapment of the lateral antebrachial cutaneous nerve (LABCN). After nerve transection, relocation to its native course, and subsequent repair, the patient experienced complete resolution of his preoperative symptomatology.

Conclusion:

To the author's knowledge, the current study is the first to describe symptomatic entrapment of the LABCN after distal biceps repair with a satisfying outcome after nerve transection, relocation, and repair.
TIME ADJUNCT AND ITS TRANSLATION FOUND IN THE MRS. VETERINARY AND DOCTOR SUHARKO
Authors: Juliarta I Made , Suardana Putu Eka
Published: September 2024

This research study focuses on Time Adjunct and their translations into Indonesian found in thestory entitled “Mrs. Veterinary and Doctor Suharko”. This study aims to find out the forms of timeadjunct found in the story entitled “Mrs. Veterinary and Doctor Suharko” and the types of translationshifts occurred. The process of analyzing the data started by reading the entire data source, thencontinued by gaining the data in the form of time adjunct and the last step was identifying thetranslation shift found. The result of this research indicated that most English time adjunct wastranslated into Indonesian using the theory of translation shifts proposed by Catford. There aresixteen data of time adjuncts found in the data source.
Inovação na Detecção e no Atendimento a Vítimas de Bullying na Escola Pública: Sinais históricos de uma normalização da violência psicológica e física
Authors: De Sousa Vilmar Luiz
Published: September 2024

Este trabalho descreve o processo de obtenção de entrevistas individuais aprofundadas (EIAs) sobre a violência de gênero que aparece entre as meninas de uma escola da região metropolitana de Belo Horizonte. As EIAs visavam, primeiramente, explorar as representações sociais de adolescentes sobre “Significado de canções funk” para uma tese de doutorado em Psicologia Social, mas este foco foi dado para discussão neste trabalho. As descobertas jogam luz sobre a normalização da violência instigada por co-conviventes (colegas e outros adultos) contra garotas. Tal violência, altamente sexualizada e complexa nas suas manifestações, tem aqui uma pequena amostra confessional. Foram relatadas situações em que eram assediadas sexualmente como brincadeiras, submetidas à violência e à coerção sexual por parte dos seus pares do sexo masculino em diferentes espaços da escola e por parte de outros adultos que com elas conviviam (fora da escola), embora muitas delas não soubessem nomear esta situação e, muito menos sua gravidade. Para além de posições binárias simplistas através das quais as garotas são construídas como meras vítimas, algumas delas se envolveram no discurso problemático de culpar as vítimas. As participantes vivem em favela e algumas se envolvem com drogas, relatando que foram muitas vezes estigmatizadas e culpadas pela violência que sofreram. Além disso, surgiram evidências de violência entre mulheres (brigas e humilhações por rapazes) em situações de competição heterossexual, reforçando a subordinação das garotas no sistema heteropatriarcal mais amplo. Se conclui com recomendações para abordar essas manifestações complexas que a sociedade tolera e que surgem no ambiente escolar.
Perylene singlet exciton fission in water solution
Authors: Llansola-Portoles Manuel , Magne Chloe , Streckaite Simona , Domínguez-Ojeda Eduardo , Echeverri Andrea , Brigiano Flavio Siro , Ha-Thi Minh-Huong , Franckevicius Marius , Jasinskas Vidmantas , Quaranta Annamaria , Pascal Andrew , Pino THOMAS , Robert Bruno , Contreras-García Julia , Finkelstein-Shapiro Daniel , Gulbinas Vidmantas
Published: September 2024

We provide the first direct evidence of singlet fission occurring with water-soluble compounds. We show that perylene-3,4,9,10-tetracarboxylate forms dynamic dimers in aqueous solution, with lifetimes long enough to allow intermolecular processes such as singlet fission. As these are transient dimers rather than stable aggregates, they retain a significant degree of disorder. We performed a comprehensive analysis of such dynamic assemblies using time-resolved absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and theoretical modelling, allowing us to observe the characteristic signatures of singlet fission and develop a model to characterize the different species observed. Our findings reveal that structure fluctuations within perylene associations are key in favoring either singlet fission or charge separation. The efficiency of triplet formation is higher than 100%, and the disordered system leads to triplets living in the nanosecond time range.
The spermathecae of the predator mosquito Lutzia bigoti
Authors: Rocha Vinícius Cordeiro , Martins Gustavo Ferreira
Published: September 2024

The insect spermatheca stores sperm in the female's body after copulation. Despite its relevance for reproduction, the organ has been investigated in just a few species of mosquitoes. In this work, the morphology of the spermathecae of the mosquito Lutzia bigoti, a species with predatory larvae with potential use in the biological control of immature mosquitoes that are vectors of pathogens, was analyzed. In this species, the three spermathecae have round-shaped reservoirs (one large and two small), delimited by a multilayered cuticle and a thin epithelium. The reservoir is connected to the proximal portion of the female's reproductive tract by a long and narrow duct, which has an epithelium formed by tall cells and muscle fibers attached. Glandular cells associate with the reservoir wall, collectively forming a spermathecal gland located near the point of attachment of the duct with the reservoir. Additionally, glandular cells are individually attached to the duct. Glandular cells are associated with secretory cavities filled with an electron-lucent material, likely released towards the spermathecal lumen for sperm nourishment and maintenance. In Lt. bigoti, the spermathecae are similar to those of other Culicinae mosquitoes, suggesting a high degree of conservation throughout the evolution of this taxon.
ReLeC-based Clustering and Multi-Objective Optimization for Efficient Energy Optimization in IoT Networks
Authors: S REGILAN , L.K. Hema , J Jenitha
Published: September 2024

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a rapidly growing field that involves the interconnection of various devices and objects through the internet. One of the major challenges in IoT is the efficient use of energy by the sensor nodes, which have limited battery life. In this context, clustering and routing techniques play a crucial role in optimizing energy consumption in wireless sensor networks. In this paper, we propose a novel protocol that combines the ReLeC clustering algorithm with multi-objective optimization to achieve efficient energy optimization in wireless sensor networks. The ReLeC protocol employs reinforcement learning-based clustering to optimize network topology and enhance energy efficiency. Multi-objective optimization is used to find a set of non-dominated solutions on the Pareto front, which enables a trade-off between competing objectives such as network lifetime, energy consumption, and data transmission quality. Simulation results show that the proposed protocol outperforms existing clustering and routing techniques in terms of energy efficiency, network lifetime, and data transmission quality. The proposed protocol can be implemented using MATLAB, making it easy to reproduce and adapt for different IoT applications.
Environmental gradients structure assemblages of Canidae across the planet
Authors: Porto Lucas , Etienne Rampal , Maestri Renan
Published: September 2024

The phylogenetic structure of ecological communities carries the signature of ecological processes that influenced and are still influencing their assembly. However, identifying the mechanisms that shape communities is not simple, as they can vary geographically. Here, we investigate how the phylogenetic structure of Canidae communities across the globe is affected by the abiotic and biotic environment. We first identify phylogenetically clustered and overdispersed assemblages of canids over the planet. Then, we apply Structural Equation Models in these communities in order to identify the effect of six variables (current temperature, Last Glacial Maximum temperature, vegetation cover, human impact, Felidae richness, and a measure of canid body size dissimilarity) on the phylogenetic relatedness of canids. We found that South America and Asia present a high concentration of clustered communities, whereas Central America, Europe, and North America show phylogenetically overdispersed assemblages. Temperature from the Last Glacial Maximum is the most important variable in our models, indicating that as LGM temperature increases, assemblages become less overdispersed (clustered). Canidae community composition across the world thus presents patterns of clustering and overdispersion, which follow mainly the environmental gradient, suggesting habitat filtering as the main force acting on Canidae assemblages.
Assessment of Social Vulnerability in terms of Disasters in Türkiye Based on Entropy Method
Authors: Yükseler Mustafa , Tenikler Gökhan
Published: September 2024

This study aims to determine social vulnerability (SV) to disasters at the provincial level. Although there are very few studies on vulnerability assessment for disasters in Türkiye, there is no recent study on SV assessment. In line with the aim of the study, SV indicators, sub-indicators and their variables have been determined using a deductive approach, considering the relevant literature review and Türkiye’s socio-economic structure. Provinces in Türkiye are assessed from a multidimensional perspective consisting of 9 sub-indicators and 34 variables representing under the indicators of demographic attributes, economic status, and adaptive capacity. In the study, entropy weight method used, and the results of the study were assessed at provincial, geographical regions and national scales. According to entropy results, the top 5 variables with the highest weights are “Number of Syrians (0,167)”, “Population Density (0,116)”, “Single-Person Household (0,096)”, “Extended Family Household (0,093)”, and “Number of Women (0,092)”. The findings show that SV index values of the provinces are between 0,093 and 0,853, most vulnerable province Istanbul is significantly different from the other provinces, while the least vulnerable province is Tunceli. Moreover, regionally, the Southeast Anatolia (0,222), Marmara (0,217) and Mediterranean (0,216) regions have the highest SV, respectively, while the Black Sea region (0,117) has the least vulnerability. The study results will provide a reference for decision makers and practitioners for disaster risk reduction.
Microplastics in Sitalakhya River: Distribution and Properties Across Land Uses in Dhaka's Peripheral Waterway
Authors: Tasnim Nafisa , Shahariar Md Nayeem Khan , Fahim Md Syfullah , Ali Muhammad Ashraf
Published: September 2024

This study investigates microplastics pollution in the water and bed sediment of a peripheral river of Dhaka city focusing on the possible impact of land use on the abundance and characteristics of microplastics. Water and sediment samples were collected from four locations along the river representing commercial, residential, industrial, and agricultural land uses. The abundance of microplastics ranged from 20 to 412 items/kg in sediment samples and from 3 to 38 items/100 liters in water samples. Some smaller microplastics were found adhering to the surfaces of larger microplastics, which can make it difficult to quantify the microplastics number accurately. The sediment and water samples from commercial areas yielded the highest concentrations of microplastics, suggesting the potential impact of land use and poor waste management practices on microplastics pollution. The majority of microplastics in sediment and water samples were blue and fragmented in shape. FTIR analysis identified the presence of the polymer types in the microplastics. The Sitalakhya River was classified as polluted with microplastics (PLI > 1), falling into risk category I. The higher abundance of MPs in river water and sediment samples from the commercial area highlights the need to develop strategies for the management of MP pollution from urban centers.
First scientific assessment protocol to assess animal welfare in cattle: a novel study from India
Authors: Kumar Ankit , Sindhu Neelesh , Kumar Tarun , Maharana Biswa Ranjan , Sharma Maneesh , Bhyan Pooja , Yadav Annu , Magotra Ankit , Gupta Shivika , Punia Sunil
Published: September 2024

The increasing importance of animal welfare in Veterinary Medicine highlights the need for a comprehensive scientific assessment protocol for evaluating animal well-being across diverse animal husbandry setups in Haryana, India. In light of this gap, our study has been meticulously crafted to rectify these critical deficiencies and a protocol was developed to assess animal welfare in cattle. Conducted over 1.5 years (March 2022 - August 2023) in various animal husbandry setups of cattle [gaushalas (cattle shelters) having zebu cattle, organized and unorganized farms having exotic/crossbred cattle] across two agro-climatic zones (North Eastern (NE) and South Western (SW) Haryana), the study involved two stages. First, a detailed analysis of existing studies utilizing different biomarkers as indicators of bovine health and welfare, both in our country and abroad, was performed. The second stage involved evaluating selected animal welfare biomarkers in different husbandry setups. Through comprehensive analysis, we identified the necessity of a systematic evaluation protocol comprising twenty welfare indicators, including four physical measures, two behavioral measures and fourteen physiological/immunological measures. For the first time in India, this diverse set of indicators provides a robust foundation for thoroughly and scientifically evaluating and monitoring the health and welfare of cattle across different husbandry setups.
Assessing the spatial risk of wild birds in avian influenza transmission using poly-species risk score
Authors: Wu Hong-Dar Isaac , Chao Day-Yu
Published: September 2024

Accumulated evidences are in support of the critical role of migratory wild birds in highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HAPIV) spread and evolution. An effective surveillance strategy to study HPAIV dispersal in wild birds and identify critical interfaces between wild birds and poultry on the landscape for potential interspecies transmission and virus evolution will be essential. This study integrates conditional likelihood with epidemiological research designs to investigate the risk of poultry farm outbreaks due to the introduction of HPAIV by migratory birds from the Taiwan citizen scientist dataset. The prediction accuracy of poultry farm outbreaks was evaluated by employing the global risk score (GRS) of multiple species of wild birds under different significant level. Although 11 wild bird species demonstrated significant associations (P < 0.05) with HPAIV poultry farm outbreaks, the bird species with P < 0.1 gave the optimal area under the receiver operating characteristic curve. Without prior adjustment of environmental factors, the posterior adjusted likelihood results suggested that the agricultural wetland yields notably strong positive odds ratio estimates for all species. The GRS under adjustment of environmental factors, a linear combination of the 27 migratory species and 27 resident species, was 0.320, yielding a sensitivity of 0.81 and specificity of 0.77. The framework of GRS developed in this study can be applied to different countries for enhanced surveillance of HPAIV.