bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory properties of Annona muricata, Launaea taraxacifolia and Tridax procumbens leave extracts
Authors: KOUKOUI Omedine , BETIRA Mansouratou , AMAGBEGNON Jean-Baptiste , VIANOU Bertin , SETON Santorin , AUBOUY Agnès
Published: August 2024

Background
In recent years, the role of inflammation in the development of several non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and cancer has been increasingly highlighted. Many medicinal plants contain bioactive substances with anti-inflammatory activities. The objective of this work was to study cytotoxicity and anti-inflammatory activity of hydroethanolic extracts of the leaves of Annona muricata, Launaea taraxacifolia and Tridax procumbens, three plants used in traditional medicine in Benin.
Method
Cytotoxicity and anti-inflammatory activity of the extracts was first assessed in vitro on the human monocyte THP-1 cells. In vitro, cytotoxicity was measured using the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay. LPS/IFNγ-activated THP-1 cells were used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of the three extracts by measuring gene expression level of pro-inflammatory (COX2, TLR8) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10-Receptor 1) markers by RT-qPCR, and by measuring by ELISA the production of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines (TNF, IL1β, IL-10) by THP-1 cells. Second, the model of acute Wistar rat hind paw edema induced by 1% formalin was used for the in vivo anti-inflammatory test.
Results
In vitro, the three plant extracts were nontoxic to THP-1 cells until 250 µg/mL. Expression of the pro-inflammatory markers COX2 and TLR8 were significantly lower for LPS/IFNϒ activated-cells treated with plant extracts at 50 and 100 µg/mL compared to untreated activated cells (P ˂ 0.05). IL-10-R1 expression was similar in untreated and plant-treated LPS-IFNϒ activated-cells, except for treatment with 50 µg/mL L. taraxacifolia leaf extract which resulted in lower expression of IL-10-R1. The production of TNF was completely abolished following the three plant treatment at 100 µg/mL of LPS/IFNϒ activated-cells, while IL-1β production was reduced (P < 0.001). For the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, the production was higher by activated cells after treatment with 100 µg/mL L. taraxacifolia extract compared to untreated activated cells (P < 0.05). In vivo, per os administration of the three extracts at 300 mg/kg significantly prevented paw edema in rats (P < 0.05), similarly to acetylsalycilic acid.
Conclusion
The results suggest that the hydro-ethanolic extracts of the three plants have significant anti-inflammatory properties and deserve further studies for their use in the treatment of inflammatory pathologies.
Tensions surrounding the use of inhaled asthma medication in The Gambia: a qualitative study of asthma patients and health care workers
Authors: Jayasooriya S , Inoue M , Allen H , Bojang M , Ceesay A , Touray S , Cooper R , Mortimer K , Balen J
Published: August 2024

Introduction:
Asthma-related mortality is high in low- and middle-income countries. Little is known about public perceptions of inhaled medicines.
Methods:
We conducted semi-structured interviews with asthma patients and health care workers at three public health facilities in The Gambia, between August and November 2022. Thematic analysis was used to interpret these data.
Results:
A total of 20 patients and 15 health care workers were interviewed. Both groups felt limited access to inhalers was a significant issue resulting in continued use of oral medications. While some patients recognised the benefits of inhaler use, beliefs that inhalers were dangerous were common. Reliance on oral short-acting beta agonists meant patients saw asthma as a recurrent acute condition resulting in an emphasis on hospital management with little awareness of inhaled preventative medicines.
Discussion:
Increasing access to inhaled medicines has the potential to save lives but socio-cultural factors in addition to medication supply need addressing.
Adsorption of Cationic Basic Fuchsin dye from aqueous solution on Green Synthesized Zinc oxide nanocomposite
Authors: Gbawoquiya Flomo L. , Rachna Km. , Singh Pramod K. , Noor I. M. , Yahya M Z A , Shankar Shiv
Published: August 2024

The cationic basic fuchsin (BF) dye was removed from wastewater using green synthesized Zinc oxide-reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite (ZnO-rGO NC) derived from Carica papaya leaf extract (CPLE). The nanocomposite was characterized using various techniques: XRD, FT-IR, TEM, EDX, and FE-SEM. Adsorption experiments were conducted to examine the effects of several experimental parameters, including contact time, solution pH, temperature, initial dye concentration, and adsorbent dose. The highest amount BF dye removal was attained at pH 7 at a temperature range of 35 to 50°C, and equilibrium time was reached in 60 minutes. The Langmuir isotherm model provided a good fit for adsorption isotherms. The determination of thermodynamic parameters, including ΔG°, ΔH°, and ΔS°, revealed that spontaneous adsorption took place as evidenced by the negative values of ΔG°. An exothermic reaction was indicated by the values of ΔH°. ZnO-rGO NC was used to remediate basic fuchsin dye (BF) dye-polluted wastewater at 50 mg/L− 1. The maximum amount of dye adsorbed was found to be approximately 84.08 mg/g, indicating that the predominant adsorption mechanism was cation exchange. Based on the results, ZnO-rGO NC was shown to be a good adsorbent.
Carbon Emission Pinch Analysis for Transformation of Polish Power Generation Sector
Authors: Poplewski Grzegorz , Ting Melvin , Foo Dominic C.Y. , Tan Raymond R. , Tan Yin Ling
Published: August 2024

Poland is taking serious measures to decarbonize its electricity generation sector by year 2050 in response to the global climate emergency. However, the pathway to reach this carbon neutrality target is still uncertain, given Poland’s current dependence on fossil fuels. Different decarbonization measures need to be examined and combined to achieve substantial reductions. In this work, carbon emission pinch analysis (CEPA) is used to plan and visualize deep emissions cuts for such a transition. Multiple scenarios were proposed in order for Polish energy generation sector to reach its CO2 emission targets in years 2030 and 2040. For instance, in Scenario 1, relative to 2022, coal was reduced by 36 times, and lignite was eliminated completely; while natural gas, onshore wind, agricultural biomass, photovoltaics have huge increase (238%, 154%, 235%, 301%, respectively), apart from having additional nuclear and offshore wind power (38 TWh and 61 TWh, respectively). Doing this achieves the 2040 emission target of 28.06 Mt CO2-eq/year. These results provide realistic benchmarks for the development and implementation of policies to realize Poland’s decarbonization ambitions.
Selection of Materials for Components of Brushed DC Machine Using VIKOR Method: A Thermal Consideration
Authors: Zulkafli M. N. A. , Rasid M. A. H. , Nafiz Daing M.
Published: August 2024

Excessive and unpredictable temperature rise in electrical machines can not only damage the motor over time but also induce errors in the control of the complex machinery and systems in which they are integrated. Traditionally, temperature reduction in electrical machines has been addressed through various optimization methods focusing on the geometric modification of different components independently. This study proposes and evaluates an alternative strategy by selecting material combinations using a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) tool known as the VIKOR method. The effectiveness of this method in proposing new materials to reduce temperature is verified using a validated LPTN thermal model developed for a small, brushed DC machine. In a copper losses test simulation with a 5A current injection, the winding temperature was reduced by 20°C by adopting the second material combination. This combination employs a ferrite magnet, Al 356-T6 for the casing, chrome steel for the bearing, metal graphite for the brush, and nylon for the slot winding paper insulation.
Elicitation of Glycyrrhiza glabra (L.) hairy roots by methyl jasmonate enhanced glycyrrhizin production
Authors: Abedi Zahra , Talebi Majid , Tabatabaei Badraldin Ebrahim Sayed
Published: August 2024

Glycyrrhizin is a valuable secondary metabolite with high medicinal properties, which is known as the most important compound in the licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.). Considering the problems in growing plants in the field, the use of tissue culture techniques, especially hairy root culture, makes the production of glycyrrhizin simpler and more affordable. The influence of Agrobacterium rhizogenes strains on the efficiency of hairy root induction showed that the highest hairy roots were observed using MSU strain (80%). Also, the effect of explant type (leaf, stem and petiole) and age (two-week-old, three-week-old and four-week-old), light conditions (24 hours of darkness and 16 hours of light-8 hours of darkness) and carbohydrate source (3% glucose and 3% sucrose) showed that the production of hairy roots from this medicinal plant depends on the type and age of explant, light treatment and the composition of the culture medium and the highest hairy roots induction was observed in leaf explant (80%), three-week-old leaf (76.66%) and MS medium containing 3% sucrose (86.66%) and treatment of 24 hours of darkness (86.66%). The amount of glycyrrhizin in hairy root lines treated by 100 µM methyl jasmonate (MJA) after 24 hours increased in the no cutting treated line and decreased in the cutting treated lines compared to the control line. In conclusion, elicitation of G. glabra hairy root culture is a suitable platform for achieving high glycyrrhizin yields.
Temporal Dynamics of Malaria in Mizoram: A District wise Analysis
Authors: RANJAN MUKESH , Rafi Sana , Singh Mahendra , Singh Ashutosh , - Lalpawimawha , Zoramthanga R , - Vanlalhriatsaka
Published: August 2024

India is the largest contributor of incidence of malaria cases and related deaths in southeast Asian region. The state of Mizoram is one of the significant contributors of Malaria cases in India. The present study focuses on the transition of malaria cases in the districts of Mizoram from 2011 to 2020. Various indicators including total malaria cases (TMC), Percent of P. falciparum (% Pf), Annual Parasite Index (API), Total positivity Rate (TPR), Annual Blood Examination Rate (ABER), and malarial deaths are processed through descriptive statistics, correlation and ANOVA to understand the disease epidemiology for Mizoram. Results revealed that Lawngtlai, Lunglei and Mamit districts are the top three in average number of malaria cases while Champhai recorded the lowest cases of malaria. Mamit recorded the highest number of malaria related deaths. Age group wise analysis showed that Malaria prevalence is highest in 15 + years of age, and the lowest is in 0–4 years of age. The malarial incidences were highest in the year 2015 for different age groups and sex. Correlation analysis results in significant correlation between TMC vs API, TMC vs TPR, API vs TPR in district Lawngtlai. District wise analysis of Malaria cases showed statistically significant difference (p < 0.01) between Lawngtlai and Mamit, Lawngtlai and Saiha, Lawngtlai and Serchhip, Lawngtlai and Serchhip. Findings of this study help in policy interventions and framework. State Vector Borne Diseases Control Programme (Malaria) Mizoram should increase intensified surveillance and monitoring of malaria cases, targeted vector control interventions, improved access to malaria diagnosis and treatments, community-based education and awareness programs.
Chatting with Interactive Memory for Text-based Person Retrieval (ChinaMM 2024)
Authors: He Chen , Li Shenshen , Wang Zheng , Chen Hua , Shen Fumin , Xu Xing
Published: August 2024

Text-based person retrieval aims to match a specific pedestrian image with textual descriptions. Traditional approaches have largely focused on utilizing a "single-shot" query with text description.They may not align well with real-world scenarios and cannot fully encapsulate detailed cues since users may employ multiple and partial queries to describe a pedestrian. To overcome this discrepancy, we introduce a novel model termed Chatting with Interactive Memory (CIM) for the text-based person retrieval task. Our CIM model facilitates a more nuanced and interactive search process by allowing users to engage in multiple rounds of dialogue, providing a more comprehensive description of the person of interest. The proposed CIM model is structured around two pivotal components: (1) The Interactive Retrieval Module, leveraging interactive memory to dynamically process dialogue and enhance image retrieval, and (2) The Q&A Module, crafted to simulate real user interactions. Our extensive evaluations on three widely-used datasets CUHK-PEDES, ICFG-PEDES, and RSTPReid illustrate the superior performance of the proposed CIM framework, significantly improving the precision and user engagement in text-based person retrieval tasks.
Measurement and Analysis of the Effect of Solar Flare Turbulence on Thermal X-ray Flux Propagation
Authors: Kumar Pramod , Choudhary R. K.
Published: August 2024

The impact of magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) turbulence of the solar flare plasma atmosphere on the thermal X-ray flux propagation in 1−10 keV energy range has been examined. As the MHD turbulence consists density, velocity and magnetic field fluctuations, we specifically examined how the fluctuations in the density field over the inertial sub-range affect the index of refraction of the atmosphere. The fluctuations in the index of refraction lead to variations in the properties of X-ray flux of 1 − 10 keV energy passing through it – a phe nomenon known as optical turbulence. We measured and analysed parameters of optical turbulence and spatial coherence by using the structure and second order mutual coherence functions. The mean values obtained were: index of refraction ≈ 1.309885 × 10 −4 , index of refraction structure constant ≈ 1.70856 × 10 −13 m −2/3 , Kolmogorov power density spectrum ≈ 7.38468 × 10 11 J m −3 , spatial coherence radius ≈ 8.76129 × 10 −12 m, and spatial coherence ≈ 5.75347 17 × 10 −24 m 2. We observed that the spatial coherence parameters decreased as the turbulence strength increased over the inertial sub-range length scale of the turbulence. This indicates that the density fluctuations significantly affect the spatial coherence properties of the thermal X-ray flux passing through it. Our findings exhibit the presence of strong optical turbulence covering the entire loop half-length of the solar flare. The analysis of the results show a compressible, density fluctuations and dispersive nature of the X-ray flux over the inertial sub-range scale in the solar flare turbulence. The density fluctuation is found associated with the non-linear cascade of the turbulent energy, compressible, fast and slow modes of the MHD turbulence.
WITHDRAWN: Regional Slope Stability Modeling in Darjeeling-Sikkim Himalaya to Understand the Impact of Gravity Loading and Seismic Shaking
Authors: Sengupta Arnab , Nath Sankar Kumar
Published: August 2024

Plenty of progress has been made in the field of regional-scale slope stability mapping in response to the urgent need for effective ways to lessen the effects of both gravity- and earthquake-caused landslides. Darjeeling-Sikkim Himalaya has faced considerable slope instability issues attributed to a combination of factors such as rainfall, seismic shaking, complex lithological compositions and tectonic setting. In order to map the terrain stability in the region, Newmark displacement (Dn) model has been applied to estimate the Factor of Safety (FoS), Critical Acceleration (αc) and Displacement (Dn). Utilizing a geospatial dataset comprising a high-resolution digital elevation model (DEM), shear strength data for soil and rock obtained from an in-depth in-situ measurement using rotary drilling for estimating physical and shear parameters such as, unit weight, cohesion and angle of friction, etc., and surface-consistent peak ground acceleration (pga-g) with a return period of 475 years, these datasets have been converted into a grid with a spatial resolution of 12.5×12.5m on Geographical Information System (GIS). The estimated of Factor of Safety (FoS), Critical Acceleration and co-seismic landslide displacement are calculated by integrating them into a dynamic model based on Newmark's Displacement. The calculated FoS ranges from 0.59–5.6, indicating that about 37% of the terrain becomes unstable as a result of rainfall and gravity-induced failure. The measured displacement (Dn) varies from 0-10cm, suggesting that sliding blocks become unstable due to seismic shaking as well. This investigation provides future disaster mitigation and management strategies to address perennial landslide devastation caused in this terrain.
Seismic Fragility Curves With Unconventional Ground Motion Intensity Measures From Physics-based Simulations
Authors: Franco Ileana Elizabeth Monsalvo , Smerzini Chiara , Rosti Annalisa , Rota Maria , Paolucci Roberto , Penna Andrea
Published: August 2024

This paper explores the performance of different ground motion intensity measures in observational fragility studies, using damage data from the 2009 L’Aquila earthquake and leveraging physics-based numerical simulations to calibrate fragility functions. The dataset included masonry and reinforced concrete (RC) buildings typical of the Italian building stock. The optimality of a wide set of intensity measures was assessed with two methodologies introduced specifically in this work for such purpose. Results from both methodologies are consistent, highlighting the superior performance of average spectral acceleration, particularly in RC buildings. On the other hand, peak ground acceleration was found to perform well especially for masonry buildings. Among integral intensity measures, Housner intensity emerged as the most effective, while Arias intensity and cumulative absolute velocity displayed weaker correlations with damage. Although based on a single case study, these findings offer initial insights into the optimality (efficiency, proficiency and practicality) of different intensity measures for observational seismic fragility studies and underscore the potential of PBS in enhancing region- and site-specific seismic risk assessments.
Retention of Nickel, Cobalt and Chromium in skin at conditions mimicking intense hand hygiene practices using water, soap, and hand-disinfectant in vitro
Authors: Vilela Libe , Schenk Linda , Julander Anneli , Midander Klara
Published: August 2024

Background
During the COVID-19 pandemic, increased hand hygiene practices using water, soap and hand disinfectants, became prevalent, particularly among frontline workers. This study investigates the impact of these practices on the skin's ability to retain the allergenic metals nickel, cobalt, and chromium. The study constitutes three parts: I) creating an altered skin barrier, and exposing treated and untreated skin to II) nickel alone, and III) in co-exposure with cobalt and chromium.
Methods
Using full-thickness skin from stillborn piglets, in vitro experiments were conducted to assess retention of metals in skin at conditions mimicking intense hand hygiene practices. Treatment of skin with varying concentrations of sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), 0.5–10%, to alter its barrier integrity was assessed. This was followed by exposure of treated and untreated skin to the metals, that were dissolved in Milli-Q water, 0.5% SLS, and ethanol respectively.
Results
Results showed that pre-treatment with 5% SLS altered the skin barrier with regards to the measure of trans epidermal water loss (TEWL). The highest amounts of metal retained in skin were observed for exposure to nickel in ethanol. Co-exposure to nickel, cobalt, and chromium in 0.5% SLS resulted in the highest amounts of metal retention in both untreated and treated skin. Linear regression analysis indicated that SLS treatment, exposure solvent, time, and metal combination significantly affected nickel retention.
Conclusions
The in vitro findings highlight the increased risk of metal retention in skin due to a compromised barrier, as a result of, for example, intensive hand hygiene practices. Hence, occupational settings with frequent exposure to water, soap and disinfectants need to consider protective measures not only for the irritant exposures themselves but also simultaneous exposure to allergenic metals.
Evaluation of Risk Factors for Periprosthetic Joint Infection Following Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty: A Multivariate Analysis Study
Authors: Şahin Koray , Kaya Hakan Batuhan , Demirkıran Cemil Burak , Ziroğlu Nezih , Bilsel Kerem , Kapıcıoğlu Mehmet
Published: August 2024

Background
Reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) has been widely used for treatment of shoulder pathologies, particularly rotator cuff tear arthropathy. Currently, it is also increasingly performed for different indications. Like in any arthroplasty procedure, periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) is one of the most concerning complications and may have devastating outcomes. This study aimed to identify risk factors for PJI following RSA.
Methods
This retrospective case-control study was conducted with patients who underwent RSA during study period. Based on PJI occurence during follow-up period, patients were divided into two groups: Group I (no infection) and Group II (infection). The relationship between numerous clinical variables and PJI was tested. All variables were initially evaluated through univariate analysis between the two groups, and variables showing significant differences between the two study groups were subjected to multivariate logistic regression analysis to determine independent risk factors.
Results
The study included 302 patients, with a mean age of 69.6 ± 10.1 years and a mean follow-up duration of 59.8 ± 24.7 months. During follow-up period, PJI was not detected in 289 patients (95.7%) (Group I), while 13 patients (4.3%) developed PJI (Group II). Univariate analysis revealed a significant association for preoperative C-reactive protein (CRP) value (p = 0.001) and preoperative diabetes history (p = 0.007) with PJI. Multivariate logistic regression analysis including these two variables showed that diabetes was an independent risk factor for PJI development (p = 0.01, odds ratio = 4.85). Preoperative CRP elevation was not observed as an independent risk factor.
Conclusions
This study demonstrated a significant association between high preoperative CRP levels and diabetes with PJI. Additionally, the presence of diabetes was identified as an independent risk factor for infection, with a 4.85-fold higher risk of PJI development in patients with a history of diabetes.
Establishment and validation of a dynamic nomogram to predict short-term prognosis and benefit of human immunoglobulin therapy in patients with novel bunyavirus sepsis in a population analysis study: a multicenter retrospective study
Authors: Yang Kai , Quan Bin , Xiao Lingyan , Yang Jianghua , Shi Dongyang , Liu Yongfu , Chen Jun , Cui Daguang , Zhang Ying , Xu Jianshe , Yuan Qi , Zheng Yishan
Published: August 2024

Objective:This study sought to establish and validate a dynamic nomogram model for predicting short-term prognosis and identifying the population that benefits from intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy in patients with novel bunyavirus sepsis.
Methods: A multicenter retrospective study was conducted on 396 patients diagnosed with SFTS. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses identified significant predictors of mortality. Machine learning models, including Random Survival Forest, Stepwise Cox Modeling, and Lasso Cox Regression, were compared for their predictive performance. The optimal model, incorporating consciousness, LDH, AST, and age, was used to construct a dynamic nomogram. The nomogram’s performance was validated in training, validation, and external test sets. Additionally, the impact of IVIG therapy on survival was assessed within high-risk groups identified by the nomogram.
Results:The dynamic nomogram demonstrated excellent predictive performance with an AUC of 0.903 in the training set, 0.933 in the validation set, and 0.852 in the test set, outperforming SOFA and APACHE II scores. Calibration curves confirmed the model’s accuracy. In the high-risk group, patients receiving IVIG therapy exhibited significantly improved survival compared to those who did not, with a hazard ratio of 1.756 (95% CI 1.019-3.028) in the nomogram model.
Conclusion: The dynamic nomogram effectively predicts short-term prognosis and identifies the population that benefits from IVIG therapy in patients with novel bunyavirus sepsis. This tool can aid clinicians in risk stratification and personalized treatment decisions, potentially improving patient outcomes.
Translation and Validation of Barkley Deficits in Executive Functioning Scale - Children and Adolescents (BDEFS-CA) in Azerbaijani
Authors: Aghayeva Kamala
Published: August 2024

Background Diagnosing neurodevelopmental disorders can sometimes be challenging, especially when the clinical presentation is different from what is normally observed. Evaluating executive functions can provide valuable information about children’s and adolescents’ mental states. There is no available executive function rating scale for Azerbaijani. From this perspective, there is great utility in translating and validating the Barkley Deficits in Executive Functioning Scale – Children and Adolescents (BDEF-CA). For this research, we decided to use the short form of the BDEF-CA. The rating scale was translated into the Azerbaijani by a bilingual clinical psychologist and by a professional translator. After performing backward translation, the final version was prepared, read and approved by two professors in the psychology department at the university. The study population included 148 parents of children aged 6-17 years (78 boys and 70 girls).
Results The findings of this research support the validity and reliability of the Azerbaijani translation of the BDEF-CA short version (Cronbach’s alpha and McDonald’s omega coefficient were both greater than 0.9, and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) results indicated an adequate fit).
Conclusion The short version of the Azerbaijani translation of the BDEF-CA could be used for assessing executive functioning deficits in children and adolescents.
Comparing open and robot-assisted partial nephrectomy – a single institution report
Authors: Roaldsen Marius , Lohne Vetle , Stenberg Thor , Patel Hiten , Aarsaether Erling
Published: August 2024

Background
Open partial nephrectomy (OPN) has previously been considered the gold standard procedure for treatment of T1 localized renal tumors. After introduction of robot assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) as an alternative method to OPN, OPN was gradually abandoned at our department. The aim of the study was to retrospectively compare the results of patients treated with either OPN or RAPN for suspected renal carcinoma.
Methods
Patients who underwent either open or robotic assisted partial nephrectomy between January 1st 2010 and December 31st 2020 were retrospectively included in the study. Each tumor subjected to surgery was scored preoperatively by the RENAL nephrometry score. Complications within 30 days were assessed according to the Clavien-Dindo classification system.
Results
A total of 197 patients who underwent partial nephrectomy were identified; 75 were subjected to OPN and 122 were treated with RAPN. The two groups of patients were similar with respect to age (OPN: 63 years ± 11, RAPN: 62 years ± 10), gender (OPN: 71/29%, RAPN: 67/33%), body mass index (OPN: 28 ± 5, RAPN: 28 ± 5), and ASA score (OPN: 2.4 ± 0.6, RAPN: 2.2 ± 0.5). Nephrometry score was 6.6 ± 1.7 in the OPN group compared to 6.9 ± 1.7 in the RAPN group (p = 0.2). The operative time was significantly shorter in the OPN group (81 minutes) compared to the RAPN group (144.5 minutes, p < 0.001). Mean perioperative blood loss was 227 ± 162 ml in the OPN group compared to 189 ± 152 ml in the RAPN group (p = 0.1). Mean length of stay was 3 days in the RAPN group compared to 6 days in the OPN group (p < 0.001). Positive surgical margin rate was significantly higher in the OPN group (21.6%) compared to the RAPN group (4.2%, p < 0.001). Complications of any grade was present in 33.3% of patients in the OPN group compared to 30.1% in the RAPN group (p = 0.6).
Conclusions
The introduction of RAPN at our department resulted in shorter length of stay and fewer positive surgical margins, without increasing complications.
Reproductive Health Morbidities, Body Mass Index and Body Fat percentage: A community-based cross-sectional study among the urban women of Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
Authors: Roy Adrija , Mohapatra Ipsa , Ayub Arshad , Mitra Arun , Panigrahi Om Prakash , Mishra Kumar Guru
Published: August 2024

Background: Reproductive morbidity includes various conditions affecting the reproductive tract or resulting from reproductive behavior. The relationship between BMI, body fat, and reproductive health is not well-understood, especially in India and Odisha.
Objectives: To determine the prevalence of reproductive health morbidities and explore associations between BMI, body fat percentage, and these morbidities among urban women in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.
Design: A community-based cross-sectional study.
Methods: The study involved 210 women aged 15-49 from Bhubaneswar's urban areas. Information was gathered on sociodemographics, gynecological and menstrual history, obstetric history, family history of morbidities, and personal history of diet, lifestyle, and physical activity. Anthropometric measurements were assessed. Outcomes were self-reported symptoms of reproductive health morbidities experienced within the past year, categorized into menstrual disorders, RTIs/STIs, and PCOS. The presence of one or more symptoms was considered an outcome.
Results: The mean age of participants was 30.49 ± 8.45 years, with 52.4% aged ≤30 years. Irregular menstruation was the most prevalent symptom (17.14%). Significant associations were observed between self-reported symptoms suggestive of menstrual disorders, RTI/STIs, PCOS, and BMI categories. Total body fat percentage and symptoms of menstrual disorders and PCOS were significantly associated with reproductive health morbidities. Among underweight women, 60% reported reproductive health morbidities. The logistic regression model indicated that the highest odds of experiencing reproductive morbidities were found among overweight women and those with high to very high body fat percentages.
Conclusion: The study demonstrated the greatest prevalence of reproductive health morbidities (RTI/STI, PCOS, menstrual symptoms) among women in the overweight and underweight BMI category and those with high to very high body fat percentages. A binomial logistic regression analysis highlights the influence of age, employment status, regular exercise, and BMI classifications on reproductive health morbidities within the study population, urban women of Bhubaneswar. These associations were statistically significant, emphasizing the need to address BMI and body fat percentage in reproductive health initiatives in Bhubaneswar's urban areas, Odisha, India.
Factors Affecting Compliance With Universal Standard Precaution Among Nurses in a Tertiary Institution in Edo State
Authors: Emekolom Obiajulum N. , Oladipupo Elizabeth O. , Saka Sulymon A.
Published: August 2024

Background
Standard precautions are meant to reduce the risk of transmission of pathogens from both recognized and unrecognized sources.
Objective
This study assessed compliance with universal standard precautions among nurses at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin city.
Methods
A descriptive survey design was adopted in this study, and the study population comprised 257 nurses across six wards in UBTH. A random sampling technique was used. A self-structured questionnaire was used to obtain data from the respondents, which was validated by the researchers’ supervisor and yielded a reliability score of 0.81 during the pilot study. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages and means were used to analyse the data obtained, while chi-square statistics were used to test the stated hypotheses of the study.
Result
The major finding was that there was a moderate level of knowledge of universal standard precautions among nurses at UBTH. There is good compliance with universal standard precautions among nurses at UBTH. Factors such as the unavailability of personal preventive equipment (PPE), hospital policies, years of practice, and attitudes of nurses influence compliance with universal standard precautions among nurses in the UBTH.
Conclusion
This study revealed that nurses at UBTH have moderate knowledge of universal standard precautions and good compliance with universal standard precautions.
Response inhibition in neurodiverse children and the association with excessive screen time use
Authors: Kuenzel Elizabeth , Hennessy Abagail , Choi Eun Jung , Nichols Emily S. , Duerden Emma G.
Published: August 2024

The aim of this study was to examine response inhibition using a gamified version of the Stroop task in a heterogeneous cohort of neurodiverse and neurotypical children, and to identify any key risk factors of screen time associated with performance-based measures of cognition. A total of 229 participants ages 3-16 (89 neurotypical children [54% boys] 90 children with ADHD [51% boys], and 50 children with ASD [72% boys]) were recruited to the study. Using a validated online cognitive battery, participants completed the Stroop task. Parents completed questionnaires regarding children’s screen time use (passive TV watching, social media, video games), sleep, daily/weekly physical activities, socializing, reading, and extracurricular activities. Very few children in the study met national guidelines for screentime, regardless of their neurodiagnostic group (X2=3.71, p=0.16). Based on a multivariate model, performance on congruent and incongruent trials on the Stroop task were comparable between the groups, however autistic children were more likely to make more attempts on the tasks (F(2)=4.35, p=0.014), indicative of reduced impulse control. In a subsequent model examining screen time and other lifestyle factors in relation to performance on the Stroop task, increased video game use was a significant predictor of more attempts. An interaction analysis revealed that only autistic children who spent more time playing video games used more attempts on the Stroop task (B=0.095, p<0.001).
Conclusion: Autistic children demonstrated reduced impulse control compared to neurotypical children and children with ADHD. Further, time spent playing video games was associated with decreased response inhibition only in autistic children. Findings indicate that screen time use, particularly video games, may be a modifiable risk factor for response inhibition processes in autistic children. Findings could inform school- or community-based programs focused on screen time awareness and monitoring screen time use in neurodiverse children.
The Rise of Agriculture 4.0: A Bibliometric Analysis of Research Trends and Future Directions
Authors: Barman Bikram , Singh Rashmi , Quader Sk Wasaful , Nath Rajat Kumar
Published: August 2024

The term "agriculture 4.0" refers to integrating artificial intelligence, big data, cloud computing, the Internet of Things and advanced robotics into agriculture. The field of Agriculture 4.0 research has seen a surge in attention as sustainable agriculture has gained more prominence. This study concentrated on conducting a bibliometric analysis of Agriculture 4.0 and its growth. The Dimensions.ai data used in the study was produced using the search terms “Agriculture 4.0," "Smart Farming," "Farming 4.0," and "Digital Agriculture.” A comprehensive dataset consisting of 1,458 relevant documents has been identified, retrieved, and compiled into a CSV format for further analysis. The retrieved data was visualized and analyzed using suitable software. It was that the information and computing sciences field had the maximum number of publications on Agriculture 4.0 (1,015), followed by Agriculture, veterinary and food science (487). The majority of articles (1,074) addressed Sustainable Development Goal 2, which has hunger as its main focus. Based on co-authorship analysis, India, China, and the USA emerged as the leading nations both in impact and research volume, with other countries clustering around them. The University of Guelph, Wageningen University and Research and Anna University were the three organisations with respectively the most impact in terms of total citations. According to the sources' citation analyses, readers were more influenced by the "Computers and Electronics in Agriculture" publication when it came to Agriculture 4.0 research. The Agriculture 4.0 research involves many stakeholders; thus, a broad multidisciplinary approach is necessary. Hence, to solve the issue of Agriculture 4.0, multidisciplinary researchers ought to collaborate rather than act alone.
Intermittent hypoxia enhances voluntary activation and reduces performance fatigability during repeated lower limb contractions
Authors: Bogard Alysha Taylor , Pollet Aviva K. , Tan Andrew Quesada
Published: August 2024

Prior research has highlighted the therapeutic benefits of acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH) in enhancing motor performance after motor incomplete spinal cord injury and in able-bodied individuals. While studies in rodents and humans indicate that AIH may facilitate motor excitability, the relationship between excitability changes and functional performance remains unclear. Additionally, discrepancies in the effects of AIH on excitability in able-bodied individuals merit further investigation. Understanding the concurrent impact of repetitive AIH on voluntary activation and spinal reflex excitability may clarify the functional implications of AIH for muscle force production. High voluntary activation is vital for sustaining torque production during activities that require repeated muscle contractions. We hypothesized that repetitive AIH would attenuate declines in both voluntary activation and maximum torque production typically observed during fatiguing contractions. To test this hypothesis, we examined the effects of four consecutive days of AIH on voluntary activation and torque generation during repeated maximal plantar flexion contractions. We assessed changes in voluntary activation using the central activation ratio (CAR) by calculating the ratio of voluntary torque to the torque produced with supramaximal electrical stimulation. Consistent with our hypothesis, we show that repetitive AIH significantly increases both CAR and peak torque during fatiguing contractions. We did not observe any changes in resting spinal reflex excitability or antagonist muscle coactivation during the fatiguing contractions post-AIH. Together, these findings suggest that repetitive AIH reduces performance fatigability through enhanced descending neural drive. Optimizing voluntary activation is critical for facilitating the recovery of functional walking skills after neurological injury.
Optimizing Large Language Models with Multi-Degree Low-Rank Approximations
Authors: Sisoka Benjamin , Robinson William
Published: August 2024

The increasing computational demands and resource requirements of advanced neural network models have created a growing need for efficient methods to enhance their scalability and deployment, particularly in environments with limited hardware capabilities. Addressing this challenge, the novel application of multi-degree low-rank approximations provides a significant breakthrough, enabling substantial reductions in memory usage and computational costs while preserving high levels of performance. Experiments conducted on the Mistral model demonstrated that this approach can effectively balance the trade-offs between model complexity and accuracy, achieving reduced perplexity and improved classification performance across a range of tasks. The use of varying degrees of rank reduction allowed for tailored optimization, enhancing the model's adaptability to different task requirements and operational environments. The findings suggest that multi-degree low-rank approximations are not only a viable solution for optimizing large-scale neural networks but also a versatile tool for extending the applicability of sophisticated language models to resource-constrained settings. This approach opens up new possibilities for the deployment of advanced language processing capabilities in real-time applications, mobile devices, and other platforms where computational efficiency is critical.
The Association between Selenium and Epithelial Ovarian Cancer among Women: A methodology and comments from the Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: KCM Perera , WND Perera , Chrishantha Abeysena
Published: August 2024

Background Ovarian cancer is the sixth most prevalent and fatal cancer among females worldwide. Antioxidants have some proven anticancer effects by limiting oxidative stress. Selenium is a powerful antioxidant and protects cells from the destruction caused by peroxides. This study aimed to determine the association between selenium intake and Epithelial Ovarian Cancer among women, who had not undergone an oophorectomy.
Methods and analysis A comprehensive electronic search was carried out according to the prepared search strategy from the starting date of the PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, Scopus, Proquest, and Web of Science databases up to the 30th of September 2022 without limitations related to language or publication status. All observational studies, cross-sectional analytical studies, ecological studies, randomized control studies, and nonrandomized clinical trials were included in the systematic review. Studies will be screened by COVIDENCE. The exposure of interest was high selenium intake from either food sources, supplements, or high selenium supplements in blood and toenails. The data were extracted. The New Castle Ottawa Scale and the ROBINS-1 tool will be used to assess the bias of the selected studies. A narrative synthesis and meta-analysis will be conducted. The results are displayed via forest plots. All analyses will be performed using STATA-17.
Commentary Ovarian cancer is the most fatal gynecological malignancy among women. Due to the lack of recommended screening tools, the identification of modifiable effective risk factors and preventive tools is essential for reducing the ovarian cancer burden. Selenium is a powerful antioxidant and prevents cell damage. Several studies have shown that selenium protects against the development of some selected cancers. Therefore it is envisaged that there is an inverse relationship between selenium and ovarian cancer for more expanded research study for the future ovarian cancer preventive strategies.
Systematic review registration: Registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO)- CRD42022356472
Effect of thermotherapy on meristem culture response of two local cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) cultivars from Burkina Faso
Authors: OUEDRAOGO Wendpang-yidé Idrissa Caleb , SOME Koussao , NANA Rasmata , TIAMA Djakaridja , BERTHE Ousséni , SORO Monique
Published: August 2024

Using healthy cuttings can enhance the productivity of cultivars susceptible to viral diseases. However, due to the unavailability of healthy cuttings, farmers often have to rely on infected ones. This study aims to enhance the health quality of planting material by using thermotherapy and meristem culture techniques on two cassava cultivars. To achieve this, cuttings from the BFM206 and BFM260 cultivars were subjected to heat treatment in a thermotherapy chamber and a control treatment in field conditions. The heat treatment involved exposing the cuttings to a temperature of 37°C for the first week. The temperature was then increased by 2°C each week over four weeks, reaching 37°C, 39°C, 41°C, and 43°C, respectively. After the treatment, the resulting shoots were used as mother plants for meristem culture. The experimental design was a split-plot with 5 repetitions. The parameters studied included the severity and incidence of cassava mosaic disease, the regeneration rate, the callus formation rate, and growth parameters. The heat treatment resulted in a significant difference between the cultivars in terms of the severity of cassava mosaic disease (P < 0.001) and the regeneration rate (P = 0.008). Furthermore, compared to the control treatment, the heat treatment significantly increased the number of nodes by 4.92 and the number of stems by 1.42 in the BFM260 cultivar. In conclusion, thermotherapy can help reduce the severity of cassava mosaic disease in mother plants and thereby improve the in vitro growth of meristems.
Thermal effects on the biological parameters of the bean Aphis craccivora (Hemiptera: Aphididae)
Authors: Dona Rochelyn , Satar Serdar
Published: August 2024

The cowpea aphid Aphis craccivora is a polyphagous species that has spread worldwide. The aim of this study was to investigate the thermal effects on the developmental period, longevity, and fecundity of apterous females of A. craccivora. The experiment was conducted under the effects of four temperature regimes, which included 16°C, 20°C, 24°C, and 28°C, with 65 ± 5% relative humidity (RH) and a photoperiod of long-day 16:8 (L:D) h. Afterwards, the nymphs developed successfully until the adult stage at all temperature regimens. The developmental period of immature A. craccivora ranged from 10.6 days at 16°C to 5.0 days at 28°C. The nymph viability and survival were greater at 24°C than at the other temperatures. However, at a constant temperature of 28°C, the mortality rate was greater than that of the other species at the immature stage of A. craccivora. The lower developmental threshold for cowpea aphids was estimated at 1.77°C and 66.79 degree-days (DD) at the first instar until adulthood. The average longevity of adult females decreased from 22.2 days at 16°C to 10.8 days at 28°C. The net reproduction rate per female was 46.97 at 24°C and 26.93 to 28°C. The largest intrinsic rates of increase (rm= 0.367) occurred at 28°C, and the smallest occurred at 16°C (rm= 0.177). It was obvious that temperatures greater than 28°C resulted in good development, increased mortality at the nymphal stage, reduced adult longevity, and diminished fecundity. The optimal growth temperature for A. craccivora was 20°C-24°C.