bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contribution of Therapeutic Foods to the Nutritional Care of Malnourished Children in West Africa
Authors: Bayala-Yaї Léa , Nikièma Philippe , Simpore Jacques
Published: May 2024

Undernutrition is the most common form of malnutrition in West Africa, particularly in countries in the Sahel region. It constitutes a major public health problem in Africa and in the world. Caused by deficiency of one or more nutrients, undernutrition remains a major concern around the world and especially in the West African region where it contributes to a high number of deaths in children under five. It denotes an insufficient supply of energy and nutrients to meet an individual's needs for good health. Moreover, there are more and more centers specialized in nutritional care to help solve the problem of undernutrition in children. Thenceforward, knowledge of the current situation will allow better actions to overcome this form of malnutrition which grieves many families in our African regions and particularly in West Africa. This review reports on the nutritional care of malnourished children in West Africa. To do this, scientific databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus and Google Scholar were used to extract publications on the nutritional care of malnourished children. The data are analyzed to assess the management of cases of undernutrition in West Africa. These results can serve as a basis for better care of malnourished children in countries with limited resources, including those in West Africa.
A Study of Visual Rehabilitation and Intraocular Pressure Control in Phacolytic Glaucoma
Authors: Bashir Sheikh , Lone Imtiyaz , Wani Fayka , Sumaiya Qazi
Published: May 2024

Purpose: To evaluate the visual recovery and intraocular pressure control after cataract surgery in patients of phacolytic glaucoma. Methods: 23 patients diagnosed clinically as phacolytic glaucoma and included in the study were operated upon using either SICS or Phacoemulsification procedure after lowering of the Intraocular pressure (IOP) and control of ocular inflammation. Results: Post-operatively 21.73% of patients achieved a best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 6/60-6/12, 43.82% had a BCVA of 4/60-6/60 and 30.43% achieved a final BCVA between 4/60 to only perception of light. However 86.95% of patients maintained an IOP less than 20 mm Hg, 8.69% had an IOP between 20-23 mm Hg and 4.34% had an IOP between 24-30 mm Hg requiring a Glaucoma filtering surgery. Conclusion: Patients of Phacolytic Glaucoma if present at an early stage can have a good visual recovery and well controlled IOP in the post-operative period.
Reframing Cultural Governance: Instrumentality and the Discursive Turn in Cultural Policy
Authors: Qaissi Aziz
Published: May 2024

Cultural policy is far from being a neutral facilitator of cultural production and consumption. Contemporary cultural governance is profoundly influenced by the strategic, and often implicit, agendas and political projects of its key actors. Cultural policies, indeed, have evolved into an instrumental tool leveraged by governments to address broader policy issues and state interests such as education, social cohesion, economic development, and even diplomatic relations. This article examines the intersection of governance, policy, and discourse within the context of cultural policy. It argues that approaching cultural policy through discourse is essential for unpacking its foundational concepts, structural arrangements, and agents involved in its propagation. It explores the notion of cultural governance with an emphasis on the instrumental turn in cultural policy, which serves to advance specific political and economic agendas. Contemporary societies are characterised by a complex web of governance structures and cultural dynamics, where traditional forms of government are increasingly challenged by the evolving concept of governance. The transition from government-centric approaches to the broader framework of governance has sparked vigorous debate within mainstream disciplines such as political science, policy sciences, and public administration, but also in other disciplines such as Cultural Studies and cultural policy studies.
Guidelines on the Release of Patients Treated with Iodine – 131 for Thyroid Cancer in Nuclear Medicine: Case of Madagascar
Authors: Ramanandraibe Marie , Raboanary Roland , Vololoniaina Bernardine , Rajaobelison Joel , Andriambololona Raoelina
Published: May 2024

The most frequently used radiopharmaceutical for treatment of thyroid cancer is the radioactive iodine (RAI). Patients treated with RAI therapy cause risk of external radiation exposure to the public and family members. While the therapeutic use of iodine-131 for thyroid carcinoma patients offers enormous benefit to them, it contributes also significantly to the radiation exposure of individuals and population. Patients treated with radioiodine present a radiation hazard and precautions are necessary to limit radiation dose to the relatives and the members of the public. The study aims to develop guidelines for the release of thyroid cancer patients treated with I-131. For this purpose, simulations were performed for estimating suitable period of restriction during which close contact with the patient should be disallowed and limited. These simulations are based on the French working Group and the recommendations of the International Commission on Radiation Protection. The study was carried out at the Isotopes Laboratory (LRI), Department of Nuclear Medicine in Antananarivo, Madagascar. According to the current regulation in radiation protection in Madagascar, the dose limit for the members of the public is limited to 1 mSv. Guidelines for discharge from the hospital are as follows. Patients can travel using public transportation up to 15 minutes. Patients are suggested to sleep apart and restrict contact with partner for 4 days after leaving the hospital. Contact with children should be restricted according to their ages. Time to restrict contact with child ranging from 3 to 10 years is limited to 4 days, and up to 7 days for younger children. This guideline is based on the retained activity of 800 MBq or the external dose rate is less than 40 μSv/h at 1 m. For public transportation, the suggested travel times for thyroid cancer are similar to those recommended by the French group. The length of time for which patients are in contact with children in this study is widely less than recommendations by French Group.
Toward the Development of an Impact-Based Decision Support Tool for Surface-Transportation Hazards. Part I: Tying Weather Variables to Road Hazards and Quantifying Impacts
Authors: Tobin Dana M. , Kastman Joshua S. , Nelson James A. , Reeves Heather D.
Published: May 2024

Development of an impact-based decision support forecasting tool for surface-transportation hazards requires consideration for what impacts the product is intended to capture and how to scale forecast information to impacts to then categorize impact severity. In this first part of the series, we discuss the motivation and intent of such a product, in addition to outlining the approach we take to leverage existing and new research to develop the product. Traffic disruptions (e.g., crashes, increased travel times, roadway restrictions, or closures) are the intended impacts, where impact severity levels are intended to scale to reflect the increasing severity of adverse driving conditions that can correlate with a need for enhanced mitigation efforts by motorists and/or transportation agencies (e.g., slowing down, avoiding travel, and imposing roadway restrictions or closures). Previous research on how weather and road conditions impact transportation and novel research herein to create a metric for crash impact based on precipitation type and local hour of the day are both intended to help scale weather forecasts to impacts. Impact severity classifications can ultimately be determined through consideration of any thresholds used by transportation agencies, in conjunction with the scaling metrics.

Significance Statement

Weather can profoundly impact surface transportation and motorist safety. Because of this and because there are no explicit tools available to forecasters to identify and communicate potential impacts to surface transportation, there is a desire for the development of such a forecast product. However, doing so requires careful consideration for what impacts are intended to be included, how weather corresponds to impacts, and how thresholds for impact severity should be defined. In this first part of the paper series, we outline each of these aspects and present novel research and approaches for the development of an impact-based forecast product specifically tailored to surface-transportation hazards. The product is ultimately intended to improve motorist safety and mobility on roads.
Barriers to Mental Health Support in Cyberbullying: A Thematic Analysis of What Mental Health Professionals and Cyber Experts Think
Authors: Ranjith Prabhu James , Vranda Mysore Narasimaha , Kishore M. Thomas
Published: May 2024

Background:

Cyberbullying can be a traumatic experience for adolescents. It can affect their psychosocial functioning, development, and mental well-being in the long term. Though mental health support is needed to help adolescents, parents, and schools, they do not seek appropriate support.

Aim:

This article describes the viewpoint of mental health and cyber experts on the barriers to seeking mental health support among adolescents, parents, and school administrators and identifies approaches to intervention.

Methods:

The qualitative research study was conducted in Bengaluru Urban, India. Ten specialists were interviewed, including mental health professionals and cyber experts who work with children and adolescents. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results:

Seven major themes emerged from the study as follows: (a) knowledge of cyberbullying, (b) negative impact of cyberbullying, (c) attributed factors for cyberbullying, (d) barriers for help-seeking, (e) child-centric intervention, (f) parental intervention, and (g) whole-school approach to cyberbullying.

Conclusion:

Several factors would affect help-seeking by adolescents, parents, and schools in the context of cyberbullying. These factors need to be considered in developing a comprehensive, school-based intervention on cyberbullying for adolescents.
Influence of carbon on thermal deformation behaviour and deformation/diffusion mechanism of V-microalloyed steel by physical constitutive analysis
Authors: Wei Hai-lian , Li Shuai , Deng Xiao-ju , Zhou Zhi-you , Chen Shuang-shuang , Pan Hong-bo
Published: May 2024

Hot compression tests of low carbon (0.055C) and medium carbon (0.37C) V-microalloyed steels were carried out in the temperature of 900∼1100 C° and strain rate of 0.005∼10 s–1. The influence of carbon on thermal deformation behaviour and deformation/diffusion mechanism of V-microalloyed steel was studied by three physical constitutive models based on creep theory. It is found that the increase of carbon content has softening effect at low strain rate, but hardening effect at high strain rate. Different carbon content may lead to changes in deformation/diffusion mechanism of V-microalloyed steel. The deformation mechanism of 0.37C steel is dislocation climb, while other deformation mechanism may appear in 0.055C steel. The diffusion mechanism of 0.055C steel is mainly lattice diffusion, while that of 0.37C steel is a synergistic mechanism of lattice diffusion and grain boundary diffusion. The accuracy analysis of the models is consistent with the inferred results of deformation/diffusion mechanism.
Numerical simulation of enhanced stirring by gas-particle blowing in side-blown furnace based on CFD-DEM method
Authors: Wang Zicheng , Wang Shibo , Li Zhouhang , Wang Hua , Xu Jianxin , Xiao Qintai
Published: May 2024

Oxygen-enriched side-blow stirring technology is the most critical enhanced stirring technology in molten bath smelting. With the current depletion of raw material grades, elevated impurity element content and increasingly complex sources, there is a higher demand for smelting process parameters, technical specifications and energy saving and emission reduction measures. This article uses computational fluid dynamics-discrete element method (CFD-DEM) method to develop a three-dimensional mathematical model to simulate the impact of gas–solid hybrid blowing in the side-blown furnace melt bath strengthening drive and conventional oxygen-enriched blowing effect comparison, analysis of its strengthening mechanism to provide a theoretical foundation for industrial production practices. The results show that GPB increases the average velocity of the slag layer by 23.22% compared to GB at the time of flow stabilisation in the furnace, GPB stirring enhances the momentum transfer in the melt bath by 18.52%, and the complex turbulence increases the gas content by a factor of 10.4% by extending the gas motion path. Analysis from the perspective of reaction kinetics aims to improve the internal flow of the melt bath, increasing the number of molecular and elemental collisions within the bath. This enhancement facilitates the reaction between the gas–solid phase and the slag layer, ultimately improving the melting efficiency.
DT-MNLR: a novel hybrid machine learning framework for precise coke strength and reactivity prediction
Authors: Wang Wen-Qiang , Yuan Li-Jing , Zhao Zi-Chu , Liu Ya-Jie
Published: May 2024

Accurately predicting coke strength after reaction (CSR) and coke reactivity index (CRI) is important for optimising coke quality in metallurgical industry, thereby minimising production costs and maximising resource utilisation. This study introduces a novel machine-learning model, the decision tree multi-output non-linear regression (DT-MNLR) model, for accurately predicting both CSR and CRI. The DT-MNLR model leverages the strengths of multiple algorithms: decision trees for efficient coal blend classification, multi-output regression for handling the interrelated nature of CSR and CRI, and a backpropagation neural network for capturing complex non-linear relationships within the data. Recognising the intricate interactions among coal properties that significantly impact coke quality, the model incorporates high-level polynomial features and additional coal property variables, enhancing its predictive accuracy. Rigorous validation using diverse testing samples demonstrates the DT-MNLR model's superior performance across a wide range of CSR and CRI values. Comparative analysis against other machine-learning methods showcases the DT-MNLR model's advantages, including lower prediction errors, improved generalisation to unseen data and enhanced robustness in handling outliers. This research significantly advances the field of coke quality prediction by establishing the DT-MNLR model as a powerful tool for coal blend analysis and quality control. The model's effectiveness paves the way for significant advancements in intelligent systems for industrial applications, promoting optimal resource utilisation and process efficiency.
Mathematical modelling and techno-economic analysis of electric arc furnace steelmaking process with hot metal charging in China
Authors: Hu Hang , Yang Lingzhi , Zou Yuchi , Xue Botao , Chen Feng , Wang Shuai , Guo Yufeng
Published: May 2024

Comprehensively considering the raw materials availability, production technology, and economy factor, it is unclear to choose the optimal electric arc furnace (EAF) steelmaking modes with charging scrap and hot metal (HM) in China. In this paper, the mathematical modelling and techno-economic analysis is adopted to quantitatively describe the consumption level of material and energy, as well as the economic performance in EAF steelmaking process. The calculation results reveal that considering the lowest smelting time, heat loss and total energy consumption, and better economic benefit and energy saving effect, the optimal EAF steelmaking process of 50% HM ratio with carbon powder and coal gas added is suggested, and the consumption of carbon powder and natural gas should be limited within 19.58 kg and 11.63 Nm3. This research is expected to provide some theoretical and operation guidance for low consumption and high efficiency lean production in EAF steelmaking process.
Testing outside of the National Bowel and Breast Cancer Screening Programs in Queensland, Australia
Authors: Fletcher Sabine , Goodwin Belinda C.
Published: May 2024

Setting: Bowel and breast cancer testing outside of the national programs is not routinely recorded in Australia, limiting our ability to monitor and estimate true screening coverage. Objective: This study makes preliminary estimates of the proportion of eligible participants who test for bowel and breast cancer outside of national programs using a large convenience sample of 31,065 cancer risk calculator respondents. Methods: Logistic regression was applied to assess difference in cancer testing both within and outside respective programs between demographic groups. Results: Almost one-third (9456 respondents) were aged between 50 and 74 years and eligible to participate in the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP) with 8073 female respondents additionally qualifying for the national BreastScreen program. Out of 4166 respondents who reported not to participate in the NBCSP, over 2000 (48.4%) reported ‘screening’ outside the NBCSP. For breast cancer the rate of self-reported screening outside BreastScreen was even higher, with 2442 (73.8%) of 3308 respondents who did not participate in BreastScreen reporting undergoing testing elsewhere. Interestingly, outer regional or remote residence was associated with lower participation within the NBCSP (OR = 0.92; p = 0.05) and higher testing outside of BreastScreen (OR = 1.21; p < 0.05) screening programs. Conclusion: Findings provide preliminary support for the need to better understand the volume of cancer testing taking place outside the national programs and to address reporting gaps within the health system.
Situating Trust, Values, and Ethics in the Politics of Knowledge Production: An Epistemic Shift in the Co-Production of Studying Violent Extremism
Authors: Badurdeen Fathima Azmiya , Jakala Michaelina , Taka Miho
Published: May 2024

This article aligns with voices arguing for the need for trust-building in the co-production of knowledge on violent extremism. Trying to internalize the concept of violent extremism in local communities comes with its own political nuances in the knowledge-making process. A focus on trust-building approaches is relevant not only to those scholars who work on violent extremism research but also to the broad academic study of conflicts, postconflict, and terrorism. By drawing examples from a workshop conducted on trust-building in violent extremism research, the article presents some of the complexities in violent extremism research fieldwork and how researchers have been building trust with their research participants by navigating complex situations. This entails how different values contradict or merge in co-producing knowledge and the need for ethics to go beyond the institutional research ethical guidelines in understanding “universal values” for building trust in fieldwork.
Improving healthcare professionals’ ultrasound-guided peripheral vascular access ability utilizing self-assembled ultrasound phantoms: A prospective, observational quality improvement project
Authors: Bullington Phillip W , Reed James R , Owens Derek L , Rothers Janet L , Peek Gloanna J , Herring Christopher
Published: May 2024

Background:

Ultrasound guidance can reduce the number of attempts to gain peripheral IV access while improving the success rate and satisfaction in patients with difficult IV access. Education and simulation are effective tools for improving the skills and knowledge related to ultrasound-guided peripheral IV access. Ultrasound phantom models allow for skill development without the risk of patient harm.

Methods:

Twenty-nine registered nurses and nurse practitioners were recruited for education and simulation regarding ultrasound-guided peripheral IV (USGPIV) placement. Participants completed a survey evaluating the efficacy of the phantom models in addition to pre- and post-intervention confidence, perceived competence, knowledge surveys, and a Directly Observed Procedural Skills Evaluation (DOPSE). The intervention included an educational PowerPoint and open practice session using the phantom models.

Results:

Statistically significant improvements were found in participants’ confidence ( p < 0.001; 95% CI: 5.287, 9.499; d = 1.31), perceived competence ( p < 0.001; 95% CI: 1.231, 2.742; d = 1.20), knowledge ( p < 0.001; 95% CI: 1.079, 2.163; d = 1.47), and skills ( p < 0.001; 95% CI: 2.499; 5.501; d = 1.29). Participants improved in maintaining needle visualization ( p < 0.001; 95% CI: 0.272, 0.9; d = 0.79) and decreasing their cannulation attempts (0.045; 95% CI: 0.013, 1.022; d = 0.48). Participants with no and novice experience saw statistically significant improvement across all categories ( p < 0.02) compared to those with intermediate, advanced, or expert experience with ultrasound. 96.5% of participants could perform ultrasound-guided peripheral IV cannulation independently or with indirect supervision following the intervention.

Conclusions:

At $36.52 per model, the self-assembled ultrasound phantom models provided a cost-effective and sustainable solution to teaching ultrasound-guided peripheral IV cannulations. Education and simulation for ultrasound-guided peripheral vascular access may benefit individuals with no or novice ultrasound experience.
Use of the Amplatzer vascular plug to treat carotid body tumors extending to the skull base
Authors: Yu Zuanbiao , Yang Tiequan , Lang Dehai , Wang Di , Hu Songjie
Published: May 2024

Background

Carotid body tumors extending to the skull base are hypervascular tumors which are difficult to access using a traditional lateral cervical approach. Preoperative embolization can reduce intraoperative blood loss.

Case Presentation

We report two patients with a carotid body tumor extending to the skull base who underwent preoperative embolization of the external carotid artery using an Amplatzer vascular plug. Two days after embolization, surgical resection was performed. Embolization was successful in both patients and resection proceeded smoothly. Both were discharged on postoperative day 9 without complications. The tumor in each patient was classified as Shamblin group III. Computed tomography angiography of the neck six months after surgery showed patency of the ipsilateral internal carotid artery and no tumor recurrence.

Conclusion

Preoperative embolization of the external carotid artery using the Amplatzer vascular plug is safe and feasible for patients with carotid body tumors extending to the skull base.
Maternal Health Considerations: Highlighting and advancing opportunities for improved maternal health
Authors: Fox-Harding Caitlin
Published: May 2024

The special collection on Maternal Health Considerations offers a comprehensive exploration of critical issues surrounding maternal well-being across diverse contexts and disciplines. Recognising that maternal health extends beyond the physiological realm, this collection delves into the multifaceted dimensions of maternal well-being, including physical, mental, and socio-ecological factors. The collection comprises a series of interdisciplinary studies that investigate various facets of maternal health, from conception to postpartum stages. It addresses the complex interplay between biological, psychological, and socio-cultural determinants that influence maternal health outcomes. By adopting a holistic approach, the contributors shed light on the interconnectedness of maternal well-being. Key themes explored within this collection include the impact of prenatal care on maternal and neonatal health outcomes, as well as the role of mental health in shaping maternal experiences. In addition, the collection presents innovative recommendations to enhancing maternal well-being, such as community-based interventions, technological advancements, and future policy considerations. Furthermore, the special collection emphasises the significance of culturally sensitive care in promoting maternal health. It highlights the need for tailored interventions that respect the diversity of maternal experiences across different ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic groups. Contributors to this collection employ a range of methodologies, including qualitative and quantitative research case studies, which provide an intricate overview of the current state of maternal health research. The collection also offers valuable insights for policymakers, healthcare practitioners, researchers, and advocates working towards improving maternal health outcomes worldwide. It serves as a vital resource for contributing to our understanding of the complexities surrounding maternal well-being. It offers a platform for critical dialogue and collaborative efforts aimed at promoting holistic maternal health.
Exploring the impact of ball possession directionality on youth footballers’ positioning, technical skills and physical abilities in small-sided games
Authors: Coutinho Diogo , Gonçalves Bruno , Kelly Adam Leigh , Santos Sara , Figueiredo Pedro , Soares Carlos , Travassos Bruno
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to investigate the effects of manipulating ball possession directionality (i.e., NO direction, MULTI direction or ONE direction) on the physical, tactical and technical performance of youth football players during small-sided games (SSGs). A total of 18 male youth football players (age: 13.6 ± 0.4 years) participated in four testing days, where they completed three random order experimental tasks based on a 4vs4 SSG: (i) NO direction, where players performed a ball possession task without a specific direction to progress; (ii) MULTI direction, where two neutral players were added to the top of each pitch and players could use them to maintain possession; and (iii) ONE direction, where each team defended and scored in two small goals placed at opposite ends of the pitch. In the positioning perspective, the NO condition showed a higher spatial exploration index than the other two conditions ( p = .001), while higher distance to the nearest teammate was identified in the MULTI ( p = .007) and to the nearest opponent in the ONE ( p < .001). In the physical variables, higher game pace ( p = .002), total distance covered ( p < .001) and jogging distance ( p < .001) were identified in the MULTI than the other conditions. Lastly, from the technical perspective, players revealed better passing decision-making ( p = .004) in the ONE than NO or MULTI conditions. Based on these results, coaches may use NO condition to emphasize space exploration, MULTI to increase external load and game pace, while ONE to emphasize technical actions related to ball control and pass.
Discursive Violence Analysis: Epistemological Advances in Qualitative Research
Authors: McMillian Rhodesia
Published: May 2024

This article outlines a new methodological approach, Discursive Violence Analysis (DVA). Discursive Violence Analysis is a qualitative methodology that is the conceptual convergence of Foucauldian and Fairclough Discourse Analysis, Critical Discourse Analysis, and Critical Legal Studies that operationalizes systemic oppression. This conceptual framework expands the existing repository of qualitative methodology that recalibrates how researchers identify, qualify, and interpret various disparate discursive social practices as evidence of racism. The DVA frames how scholars interrogate racism and how racism is institutionalized and codified within education and networking social systems. This article aims to provoke an inclusive and empirical engagement on ways to reimagine epistemology within education scholarship—suggesting that ways of knowing racism and understanding racism have experiential origins. Discursive Violence Analysis is an alternative qualitative means of identifying and describing the fundamental sophistications of discourses that steer, normalize, and legitimize racism. This article begins with a researcher reflexivity that foregrounds my journey toward developing DVA—briefly revisiting my experience as a doctoral candidate. Secondly, this article transitions into a “how-to” guide, mapping the conceptual and methodological process. And lastly, this article ends by explaining the critical assumptions of DVA and research queries for emerging scholars.
Does Platelet-Rich Fibrin Enhance Recovery From Neurosensory Disturbance Following Mandibular Fractures? A Double-Blind, Split-Mouth Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Tabrizi Reza , Moslemi Hamidreza , Shafiei Shervin , Dastgir Ramtin , Peacock Zachary S.
Published: May 2024

Study Design

Randomized Clinical Trial.

Objective

Mandibular body fractures may result in inferior alveolar nerve damage. This study examined the effectiveness of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) application to the inferior alveolar nerve during open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of mandibular fractures.

Methods

This was a double-blind, split-mouth randomized clinical trial. Patients with bilateral mandibular body fractures with minimal displacement (<5 mm) who underwent ORIF were assessed for enrollment. PRF was placed within the fracture site before reduction and fixation on the studied side. Fixation was performed on the contralateral side (control side) without PRF. The study and control groups were randomized using QuickCalcs software. Neurosensory disturbance (NSD) was assessed through two-point discrimination (TPD), self-reported NSD (SR-NSD), and brush directional stroke discrimination test (BDSD) at 6 and 12 months postoperatively.

Results

Twenty-five subjects were enrolled. BDSB recovery was greater in the study group during all time intervals ( P < .001). There were no differences between TPD and SR-NSD at the follow-up periods ( P > .05).

Conclusions

The results of this split-mouth randomized clinical trial indicate that PRF may enhance the recovery of a damaged inferior alveolar nerve in mandibular body fractures.
Development of a telemedicine virtual clinic system for remote, rural, and underserved areas using user-centered design methods
Authors: Blocker Abby , Datay Mohammed Ishaaq , Mwangama Joyce , Malila Bessie
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Virtual clinics are an emerging form of telemedicine which can positively impact healthcare accessibility in remote, rural, and underserved areas. However, a virtual clinic system for these contexts must be designed appropriately. The user-centered design method can be employed to develop an appropriate virtual clinic.

Methods

The development of the virtual clinic used the user-centered design method. First, a situational analysis was conducted to understand the context of public primary healthcare facilities in South Africa. Literature review, observations, and interviews were conducted, which then informed system requirements. A virtual clinic system was then developed and its usability was evaluated with doctors and nurses in a lab setting using healthy participants acting as patients. Doctors and nurses completed system usability scale surveys and provided interview feedback.

Results

The situational analysis revealed 10 key themes which were translated into a problem statement and 10 system requirements. A virtual clinic system was then developed based on these requirements. 5 doctors and 11 nurses were recruited to complete usability testing with the system. The system received an average of 80.6 scores (good to excellent) out of 100 on the system usability scale. Feedback from participants revealed key areas for improvement of the virtual clinic system, as well as opportunities for further implementation.

Conclusion

The developed virtual clinic system demonstrated the application of the user-centered design method to telemedicine technologies for remote, rural, and underserved areas. The positive feedback received from the participants demonstrated the importance of the user-centered design method in developing technologies for enhancing service delivery in health systems. Further work will implement this system in real-world clinical settings.
Influences of Farmland Transfer Transaction Costs on Contract Choices from the Perspective of Differential Order Governance: Based on a Survey of Farmers in Henan Province
Authors: Wang Yan , Wang He , Wen Bo , Zhang Luxin
Published: May 2024

Under the heterogeneous situation of heterogeneity of farmland circulation entities, transaction costs are the key factors to optimize the selection of circulation contracts, and reducing transaction costs is an important realization path to promote farmland circulation in a reasonable and orderly manner and accelerate the process of agricultural modernization. Based on the survey data of 814 farming households in Henan Province, this study explores the transaction costs on contract selection based on the differential order governance. The results show that (a) in the transfer of farmland, farmers’ choice of contracts is restricted by their degree of association with the transaction entity, which is the result of differential order governance. (b) The influence of differential order governance on the selection of transfer contracts is constrained by the governance context. Farmers tend to choose formal written contracts in the context of weak ties governance but choose verbal or informal contracts under strong relationship governance. (c) The impact of transaction costs on the selection of farmland transfer contracts is constrained by the three-stage scenarios as before, during, and after the transaction. In different transaction stages, the higher the transaction costs are, the more likely farmers are to choose a formal written contract. The findings show the importance of the rules of human relations in the society of acquaintances in saving transaction costs. The importance of the formal system and informal institutions, such as trust and reputation, and avoiding one-size-fits-all suggestions should be involved in the formulation and implementation of farmland transfer policies.
Does Elevated Mean-Arterial Pressure Lead to Better Outcomes in Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy?- A Prospective, Pilot Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Sharma Ayush , Jaiswal Ajay , Marathe Nandan , Singh Vijay , Shakya Akash , Mangale Nilesh , Mhatre Pauras
Published: May 2024

Study design

Randomized Control Trial.

Objective

DCM refers to compression of spinal cord either due to static/dynamic causes or commonly, a result of combination of both. Number of variables exist, which determine prognosis post-surgery. Role of intra-operative blood pressure has not been analyzed in depth in current literature. Elevating MAP post SCI is widely practiced and forms a recommendation of AANS/CNS Joint Committee Guidelines. This led us to investigate role played by elevated MAP during surgery for DCM, in order to optimize outcomes.

Methods

This prospective randomized comparative pilot study was conducted at a tertiary care spine centre. 84 patients were randomly divided in two groups. Group 1 had intra-operative MAP in normal range. Group 2, had intra-operative BP 20 mmHg higher than preoperative average MAP with a variation of + 5 mmHg. Outcomes were recorded at 3 months, 6 months and 1 year by mJOA, VAS and ASIA scale.

Results

Neurological improvement was documented in 19/30 (63.3%) patients of hypertensive group compared to 16/30 (53.3%) patients of normotensive group. Improvements in mJOA scores were better for hypertensive group during the 1-year follow-up. Improvement in VAS scores were comparable between two groups, but at 1-year follow-up the VAS score of hypertensive groups was significantly lower.

Conclusion

MAP should be individualized according to preoperative average blood pressure assessment of patient. Keeping intraoperative MAP at higher level (preoperative MAP + 20 mmHg) during surgery for DCM can result in better outcomes.
Adaptive RISE Control of Winding Tension with Active Disturbance Rejection
Authors: Mi Junjie , Yao Jianyong , Deng Wenxiang
Published: May 2024

A winding system is a time-varying system that considers complex nonlinear characteristics, and how to control the stability of the winding tension during the winding process is the primary problem that has hindered development in this field in recent years. Many nonlinear factors affect the tension in the winding process, such as friction, structured uncertainties, unstructured uncertainties, and external interference. These terms severely restrict the tension tracking performance. Existing tension control strategies are mainly based on the composite control of the tension and speed loops, and previous studies involve complex decoupling operations. Owing to the large number of calculations required for this method, it is inconvenient for practical engineering applications. To simplify the tension generation mechanism and the influence of the nonlinear characteristics of the winding system, a simpler nonlinear dynamic model of the winding tension was established. An adaptive method was applied to update the feedback gain of the continuous robust integral of the sign of the error (RISE). Furthermore, an extended state observer was used to estimate modeling errors and external disturbances. The model disturbance term can be compensated for in the designed RISE controller. The asymptotic stability of the system was proven according to the Lyapunov stability theory. Finally, a comparative analysis of the proposed nonlinear controller and several other controllers was performed. The results indicated that the control of the winding tension was significantly enhanced.
Theoretical Modeling and Surface Roughness Prediction of Microtextured Surfaces in Ultrasonic Vibration-Assisted Milling
Authors: Ni Chenbing , Zhu Junjie , Wang Youqiang , Liu Dejian , Wang Xuezhao , Zhu Lida
Published: May 2024

Textured surfaces with certain micro/nano structures have been proven to possess some advanced functions, such as reducing friction, improving wear and increasing wettability. Accurate prediction of micro/nano surface textures is of great significance for the design, fabrication and application of functional textured surfaces. In this paper, based on the kinematic analysis of cutter teeth, the discretization of ultrasonic machining process, transformation method of coordinate systems and the cubic spline data interpolation, an integrated theoretical model was established to characterize the distribution and geometric features of micro textures on the surfaces machined by different types of ultrasonic vibration-assisted milling (UVAM). Based on the theoretical model, the effect of key process parameters (vibration directions, vibration dimensions, cutting parameters and vibration parameters) on tool trajectories and microtextured surface morphology in UVAM is investigated. Besides, the effect of phase difference on the elliptical shape in 2D/3D ultrasonic elliptical vibration-assisted milling (UEVAM) was analyzed. Compared to conventional numerical models, the method of the cubic spline data interpolation is applied to the simulation of microtextured surface morphology in UVAM, which is more suitable for characterizing the morphological features of microtextured surfaces than traditional methods due to the presence of numerous micro textures. The prediction of surface roughness indicates that the magnitude of ultrasonic amplitude in z-direction should be strictly limited in 1D rotary UVAM, 2D and 3D UEVAM due to the unfavorable effect of axial ultrasonic vibration on the surface quality. This study can provide theoretical guidance for the design and fabrication of microtextured surfaces in UVAM.
Role of Exosomes in Cancer and Aptamer-Modified Exosomes as a Promising Platform for Cancer Targeted Therapy
Authors: Wu Yating , Cao Yue , Chen Li , Lai Xiaofeng , Zhang Shenghang , Wang Shuiliang
Published: May 2024

Exosomes are increasingly recognized as important mediators of intercellular communication in cancer biology. Exosomes can be derived from cancer cells as well as cellular components in tumor microenvironment. After secretion, the exosomes carrying a wide range of bioactive cargos can be ingested by local or distant recipient cells. The released cargos act through a variety of mechanisms to elicit multiple biological effects and impact most if not all hallmarks of cancer. Moreover, owing to their excellent biocompatibility and capability of being easily engineered or modified, exosomes are currently exploited as a promising platform for cancer targeted therapy. In this review, we first summarize the current knowledge of roles of exosomes in risk and etiology, initiation and progression of cancer, as well as their underlying molecular mechanisms. The aptamer-modified exosome as a promising platform for cancer targeted therapy is then briefly introduced. We also discuss the future directions for emerging roles of exosome in tumor biology and perspective of aptamer-modified exosomes in cancer therapy.
SEDA 2024 update: enhancing the SEquence DAtaset builder for seamless integration into automated data analysis pipelines
Authors: Reboiro-Jato Miguel , Pérez-Rodríguez Daniel , Da Silva Miguel José , Vila-Fernández David , Vieira Cristina P. , Vieira Jorge , López-Fernández Hugo
Published: May 2024

Background

The initial version of SEDA assists life science researchers without programming skills with the preparation of DNA and protein sequence FASTA files for multiple bioinformatics applications. However, the initial version of SEDA lacks a command-line interface for more advanced users and does not allow the creation of automated analysis pipelines.

Results

The present paper discusses the updates of the new SEDA release, including the addition of a complete command-line interface, new functionalities like gene annotation, a framework for automated pipelines, and improved integration in Linux environments.

Conclusion

SEDA is an open-source Java application and can be installed using the different distributions available (https://www.sing-group.org/seda/download.html) as well as through a Docker image (https://hub.docker.com/r/pegi3s/seda). It is released under a GPL-3.0 license, and its source code is publicly accessible on GitHub (https://github.com/sing-group/seda). The software version at the time of submission is archived at Zenodo (version v1.6.0, http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10201605).
A comparison between the role of enniatins and deoxynivalenol in Fusarium virulence on different tissues of common wheat
Authors: Beccari Giovanni , Tini Francesco , Foroud Nora A. , Ederli Luisa , Gardiner Donald M. , Benfield Aurelie H. , Harris Linda J. , Sulyok Michael , Romani Roberto , Bellezza Ilaria , Covarelli Lorenzo
Published: May 2024

Background

Fusarium graminearum and Fusarium avenaceum are two of the most important causal agents of Fusarium head blight (FHB) of wheat. They can produce mycotoxins that accumulate in infected wheat heads, including deoxynivalenol (DON) and enniatins (ENNs), produced by F. graminearum and F. avenaceum, respectively. While the role of DON as a virulence factor in F. graminearum toward wheat is well known, ENNs in F. avenaceum has been poorly explored. Results obtained to-date indicate that ENNs may confer an advantage to F. avenaceum only on particular hosts.

Results

In this study, with the use of ENN-producing and ENN non-producing F. avenaceum strains, the role of ENNs on F. avenaceum virulence was investigated on the root, stem base and head of common wheat, and compared with the role of DON, using DON-producing and DON non-producing F. graminearum strains. The DON-producing F. graminearum strain showed a significantly higher ability to cause symptoms and colonise each of the tested tissues than the non-producing strain. On the other hand, the ability to produce ENNs increased initial symptoms of the disease and fungal biomass accumulation, measured by qPCR, only in wheat heads, and not in roots or stem bases. LC-MS/MS analysis was used to confirm the presence of ENNs and DON in the different strains, and results, both in vitro and in wheat heads, were consistent with the genetics of each strain.

Conclusion

While the key role of DON on F. graminearum virulence towards three different wheat tissues was noticeable, ENNs seemed to have a role only in influencing F. avenaceum virulence on common wheat heads probably due to an initial delay in the appearance of symptoms.
Short‑ and long‑term outcomes after laparoscopic and open pancreatoduodenectomy for elderly patients: a propensity score‑matched study
Authors: Xu Shuai , Deng Xin , Wang Shulin , Yu Guangsheng , Liu Jun , Gong Wei
Published: May 2024

Background

The feasibility and safety of laparoscopic pancreatoduodenectomy (LPD) in elderly patients is still controversial. This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of LPD and open pancreatoduodenectomy (OPD) in elderly patients.

Methods

Clinical and follow-up data of elderly patients (≥ 65 years) who underwent LPD or OPD between 2015 and 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. A 1:1 propensity score-matching (PSM) analysis was performed to minimize differences between groups. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to select independent prognostic factors for 90-day mortality.

Results

Of the 410 elderly patients, 236 underwent LPD and 174 OPD. After PSM, the LPD group had a less estimated blood loss (EBL) (100 vs. 200 mL, P < 0.001), lower rates of intraoperative transfusion (10.4% vs. 19.0%, P = 0.029), more lymph node harvest (11.0 vs. 10.0, P = 0.014) and shorter postoperative length of stay (LOS) (13.0 vs. 16.0 days, P = 0.013). There were no significant differences in serious complications, reoperation, 90-day readmission and mortality rates (all P > 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that post-pancreatectomy hemorrhage (PPH) was an independent risk factor for 90-day mortality. Elderly patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) who underwent LPD or OPD had similar overall survival (OS) (22.5 vs.20.4 months, P = 0.672) after PSM.

Conclusions

It is safe and feasible for elderly patients to undergo LPD with less EBL and a shorter postoperative LOS. There was no statistically significant difference in long-term survival outcomes between elderly PDAC patients who underwent LPD or OPD.