bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Green Cool Factor: Eco-Innovative HVAC Solutions in Building Design
Authors: Ali Bashar Mahmood , AKKAŞ Mehmet
Published: November 2023

This research investigates the compatibility of conventional air conditioning with the principles of green building, highlighting the need for systems that enhance indoor comfort while aligning with environmental sustainability. Conventional cooling systems, though proficient in regulating indoor temperatures, encounter several issues when incorporated into green buildings. These include energy waste, high running costs, and a misalignment with eco-friendly practices, which may also lead to detrimental environmental effects and potentially reduce occupant comfort, particularly in retrofit situations. Given the emphasis on sustainability and energy conservation in green buildings, there is a pressing demand for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) solutions that support these goals. This study emphasizes the critical need to reconsider traditional HVAC strategies in the face of green building advances. It advocates for the adoption of innovative HVAC technologies designed for eco-efficiency and enhanced comfort. These technologies should integrate seamlessly with sustainable construction, use greener refrigerants, and uphold environmental integrity, driving progress towards a sustainable and occupant-friendly built environment.
Hearing Rehabilitation in Single Side Deafness: CROS vs BCD vs CI
Authors: Pantaleo Alessandra , Murri Alessandra , Cavallaro Giada , Pontillo Vito , Quaranta Nicola
Published: November 2023

Single-sided deafness (SSD) refers to a condition where there is severe to profound Sensorineural hearing loss in one ear, while the other ear has normal or near-normal hearing.
SSD can significantly impact an individual's ability to localize sounds, understand speech in noisy environments, and maintain spatial awareness, often resulting in a reduced quality of life and increased social isolation. In children with unilateral deafness, it can impede spoken language development and potentially impact cognitive abilities.
Historically, there was a misconception that the unaffected ear could adequately support speech development in early cases and provide acceptable hearing function in adults. Consequently, SSD was frequently undertreated. However, advances in technology and a deeper understanding of the psychological and developmental impact of SSD have led to a shift in management strategies.
Various treatment options are available for addressing SSD, but ongoing debate surrounds the most effective approach. These options include cochlear implants (CI), contra-lateral-routing-of-signal (CROS) devices, and bone conduction devices (BCDs).
The aim of this study is to review the scientific evidence on different treatment options for SSD and compare their impact on the quality of life of individuals with this condition.
Psychological, Social, and Behavioral Conditions of Anti-VEGF Patients: Results from the ALBATROS Data Collection
Authors: Wolfram Christian , Pfeiffer Norbert , Hudde Tobias , Klatt Alexander , Schnegelsberg Birthe , Ross Mike , Ziemssen Focke , Schuster Alexander K
Published: November 2023

Background: Retinal diseases such as neovascular age related macular degeneration (nAMD), diabetic macular edema (DME) or branch-/central retinal vein occlusion (B/CRVO) have significant implications for patients' social and psychological well-being. To gain a comprehensive understanding of patients' backgrounds and attitudes, we developed an exploratory questionnaire, the Basic Care and Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire (BPZ-9).

Methods: The ALBATROS study aimed to assess the care situation of treatment-naïve patients diagnosed with either nAMD, DME or B/CRVO. The data collection took place at the beginning of treatment and after twelve months of anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) therapy. The BPZ-9 instrument comprises nine questions to evaluate patients’ psychological and social situation and their satisfaction with treatment.

Results: Data were collected from 1.478 nAMD (mean 78 years), 445 DME (67 years), 233 BRVO (70 years) and 144 CRVO (71 years) patients at 102 study centers throughout Germany. Approximately one third of the patients was living alone and six percent were in organized care. One in four patients had difficulties to walk and one in five needed accompany for treatment. Anxiety to lose vision was present in three out of four patients at the beginning and slightly decreased to two out of three over the 12-month treatment preriod. The distress of having a retinal disease was generally higher than the distress related to treatment. Most patients reported high treatment satisfaction (73%) and felt well informed (81%).

Conclusion: Patients receiving anti-VEGF therapy commonly experience impaired mobility, dependency on others, distress and the fear of vision loss.
Potential Medicinal Plants for the Treatment of Dengue Fever: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ajaegbu Eze Elijah , Ikegbuna Chizurum Philip
Published: November 2023

Antiviral drugs cannot treat dengue fever, a serious medical disease spread by the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. One important arbovirus disease is dengue fever. Safe, affordable and effective drugs that inhibit dengue virus (DENV) are needed to control dengue worldwide. Medicinal plants have long been considered an important alternative in the treatment of various diseases, including dengue fever. The aim of this study was to use databases PubMed, Google Scholar and Research Gate to identify plants of different tribes from different places that can be used for the treatment of DENV infection and open supportive care for dengue. Previous studies have shown antiviral activity of medicinal plants against DENV. The aim of the present study is to discover plants from different tribes from different places that can be used to treat DENV infection and provide open supportive care against dengue. The recommended reporting guidelines for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA statement) were followed in the search and selection of articles using the PubMed database, Google Scholar and Research Gate. The final selection was made after careful consideration and up to 85 publications that met the inclusion criteria. It is said that different plants from different tribes and geographical locations can be used to treat DENV infection.
Effects of Organic Selenium and Nano-Selenium on Drought Stress of Pak Choi (Brassica chinensis var. pekinensis. cv. ‘Suzhouqing’) and Its Transcriptomic Analysis
Authors: WANG Yanyan , HUANG Liu , WU Junda , SUN Peiheng , ZHAN Jianyun , WU Jianfu , LIU Shiyu , ZHOU Changming , HU Longsong , LI Na , CHEN Jiao , HE Xiaowu
Published: November 2023

In order to investigate both the physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying the impacts of organic selenium and nano-selenium on drought stress of Pak Choi (Brassica chinensis var. pekinensis. cv. ‘Suzhouqing’), we measured photosynthetic pigment, antioxidant, nutritional quality, and performed transcriptome sequencing of leaves using RNA-seq technology. Under drought conditions, the beneficial effects of organic selenium and nano-selenium on weight and quality of ‘Suzhouqing’ were primarily manifested in the following aspects. Firstly, there was an enhancement in photosynthetic capacity through upregulation of light-trapping pigment proteins: Lhca1, Lhca2, Lhca3, Lhca4, Lhcb1, Lhcb2, Lhcb3, Lhcb4 and Lhcb5. Secondly, effective regulation of reactive oxygen species homeostasis was achieved by activating the antioxidant system via up-regulation of glutathione S-transferase. Thirdly, water homeostasis was maintained through glutathione oxidase activity. Lastly, increased expression levels of ABC transporter, adenylate kinase and cysteine desulphurase contributed to elevated total selenium content. In addition, we screened hub core genes related to the above key metabolic pathways through Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis. Since the results were consistent with the up-regulated genes identified in the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway of differentially expressed genes by transcriptome sequencing analysis, this confirms the accuracy and reliability of the transcriptome sequencing data.
“A woman clothed with the sun”: diagnostic study and testing of enzyme-based green products for the restoration of an early 17th century wall painting of Palazzo Gallo in Bagnaia (Italy)
Authors: Colantonio Claudia , Lanteri Luca , Bocci Ramona , Valentini Valeria , Pelosi Claudia
Published: November 2023

A 17th century wall painting representing a Virgin between two Saints in a noble Italian renaissance palace, Palazzo Gallo in Bagnaia (Viterbo, Italy), was restored in 2021 in the context of a wider restoration campaign interesting the main room of the palace built by cardinal Sansoni Riario. Diagnostic analyses done with traditional characterization techniques (optical microscopy on micro-stratigraphic sections, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) provided the identification of both original painting and restoration materials, while imaging investigations as ultraviolet fluorescence photography, false color images and multispectral mapping provided by hypercolorimetric multispectral imaging (HMI) technique enabled the evaluation of the state of conservation, locating restoration interventions and supporting the monitoring of the cleaning procedure. An altered protective Paraloid-based coating dating from early 2000s had to be removed due to the unpleasant glossy finishing given to the painted surface, making the scene barely readable. To pursue a restoration protocol based on environmental sustainability and green chemistry, enzyme-based gels marketed by Nasier-Brenta© and CTS© companies were tested in different protocols for the cleaning of the mash covering the painting. Although some interesting results were observed, the enzymatic cleaning had a scarce effectiveness with timing beyond a reasonable interval. Traditional chemical solvents as Dowanol PM (methoxy-propanol) and benzyl alcohol were necessary to complete the cleaning of the painting surface.
Analysis of practical experience in the development and implementation of standard operating procedures in the activities of nursing medical staff.
Authors:   Derzhavin Tambov State University, Kalugina M. G.
Published: November 2023

The article addresses issues of quality of care and the implementation of standard operating protocols (SOPs) to improve patient safety. As part of the “High 5’s” project, WHO developed SOPs to address 5 priority patient safety issues, which were implemented in 5 countries around the world. In Russia, the implementation of SOPs is closely related to the performance of functional responsibilities of nursing specialists, who play an important role in improving the quality of medical care, including patient care. The main functions of SOPs for nurses are training medical personnel, conducting examinations and assessing the quality of care provided, planning measures to improve the provision of medical care, protecting the rights of patients and staff when resolving controversial and conflict situations. The article also discusses the implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) to improve patient safety and analyzes the experience of developing and implementing SOPs for nurses in public medical organizations in Tambov. The introduction of standard operating procedures (SOPs) into the work of nursing staff can improve the quality of work and reduce the risk of errors. A survey of nurse practitioners found that the most requested SOPs were the prevention of healthcare-associated infections and nursing procedures. The main requirements for the drafters of SOPs are a deep understanding of processes and manipulations, the ability to analyze risks and knowledge of the regulatory framework and reference literature. In general, the implementation of SOPs is an effective tool for improving the quality of work of medical personnel and ensuring patient safety. In general, the implementation of SOPs is an effective tool for improving the quality of work of medical personnel and ensuring patient safety. The results obtained can be used to develop new SOPs and improve existing ones, as well as to train medical personnel and improve their skills.
Buku Ajar Komunikasi Visual
Authors:   Universitas Muhammadiyah Sidoarjo, Aesthetika Nur Maghfirah , Febriana Poppy
Published: November 2023

Manusia pada zaman pra-sejarah telah mengenal dan mempraktekkan komunikasi secara visual. Berbagai macam ukiran serta lukisan-lukisan yang banyak dijumpai dan ditemukan dalam gua merupakan tanda manusia zaman dulu menerapkan komunikasi visual kepada manusia lainnya. Bentuk komunikasi visual kemudian mengalami perkembangan yang lebih maju dengan dibuktikan oleh adanya seperti hieroglyphics, prasasti, tulisan, dan buku.Komunikasi visual ialah sebuah rangkaian proses penyampaian informasi atau pesan kepada pihak lain dengan menggunakan media penggambaran yang hanya dapat dibaca oleh indera pengelihatan. Komunikasi visual terdiri dari kombinasi seni, lambang, tipografi, gambar, desain grafis, ilustrasi, dan warna dalam penyampaiannya. Sementara itu komunikasi visual
Everyday Objects in Trauma Therapy: Examining the Material Culture of Young Refugees with the Aim of Trauma Processing
Authors: Hosszu Erzsébet
Published: November 2023

Objects help us to integrate, socialise, learn, and mirror our past and self. They also represent our home, as we can take them with us when moving. What happens to our objects when this move is accompanied by the trauma of forced migration? The aim of this paper is to understand the significance of the object, the smallest physical unit of the home, in the recovery processes of trauma caused by forced migration. In parallel with a literature review, this research relies on in-depth interviews and the author’s ten years of field experience in refugee communities in Hungary, Switzerland, Belgium and Palestine. The literature review explores the importance of objects in the context of migration, highlighting the roles of them in the process of socialising with others, learning new skills, developing our own self, transforming our home and surviving a challenge. According to the literature, objects can create a safe and well known environment, they can materialise the past and culture, therefore they can help to recall memories and they can also have a significant role in reconnecting us to life, since they integrate us into new communities. According to the interviews, the coping strategies have more to do with activity and social connections and less with everyday objects due to the trauma of forced migration. Taking advantage of the general nature of objects, the coping mechanism of forced migrants and loose object attachment, objects can become a neutral tool of trauma therapy. From the results, a design therapy toolkit will be created for professionals, educators and therapists, which can support processing trauma by developing place and object attachment.
Actitudes hacia la obesidad: un estudio desde la satisfacción corporal y diferencias por sexo
Authors:   Facultad de Ciencias de la Conducta de la UAEMéx, Bautista-Rodríguez Mónica Lizbeth , Guadarrama Guadarrama Rosalinda ,   Instituto de Estudio Sobre la Universidad de la UAEMéx, Veytia-López Marcela ,   Instituto de Estudio Sobre la Universidad de la UAEMéx, Gallosso Méndez Ana C.
Published: November 2023

La obesidad es un aspecto que atañe a toda la sociedad y no solo a quien la padece, estableciéndola como una emergencia de salud pública. Se ha señalado que es una enfermedad multifactorial, en don-de, los comportamientos de estilos de vida repercuten de manera desfavorable en la salud. El objetivo de la presente investigación fue comparar las actitudes a la obesidad en una muestra de estudiantes universitarios con respecto al grado de satisfacción corporal y el sexo. La muestra estuvo conformada por 347 estudiantes de 18 a 25 años, siendo 117 hombres y 230 mujeres con una media de edad de 21.06 ± 1.33. La mayoría de la muestra mención tener un alto nivel de satisfacción corporal. Las perso-nas mas satisfechas con su cuerpo, presentaron menores niveles de actitudes positivas a la obesidad (preferencia, preocupación y voluntad). Mientras que los hombres presentaron actitudes más positivas a la obesidad que las mujeres.
La Psicología Clínica Hospitalaria en el Servicio Madrileño de Salud: Características, recursos humanos y perspectivas
Authors:   Hospital Clínico San Carlos de Madrid, Cuellar Flores Isabel , Manzano Beatriz , Fernández Garzón Lucía , Maldonado Belmonte M. Jesús , Félix-Alcántara Miriam , Jiménez Bruña Miriam , Ferreira González Mercedes
Published: November 2023

La Psicología Clínica Hospitalaria abarca la atención psicológica proporcionada en los servicios mé-dico-sanitarios de los hospitales a pacientes con problemas de salud. El objetivo de este trabajo ha sido identificar los recursos humanos y las características asistenciales y organizativas de la Psicología Clínica Hospitalaria en el Servicio Madrileño de Salud (SERMAS), a través de una encuesta realizada a Psicólogos/as Clínicos/as (PEPC) Hospitalarios/as, y conocer su perspectiva con respecto a la organiza-ción asistencial. Se han recogido respuestasde 47 PEPC que trabajan en 21 hospitales del SERMAS. Se identifican56 equivalentes de jornada completa en programas de Psicología Clínica Hospitalaria en 29 hospitales del SERMAS, con una ratio media global de 0.84 PEPC hospitalarios/100000 hab. y la mayoría integrados en Programas de Interconsulta-Enlace de Servicios de Psiquiatría. El tiempo de espera medio de atención apacientes hospitalizados fue de 2.57 días y de 2.25 meses para consultas externa. La demora media entre consultas fue de 2.33 días durante la hospitalización y 4.48 semanas en consultas externas. Se identifican las principales actividades y programas de atención realizados y las inequidades en la disponibilidad de estos programas. El 34% de todos los hospitales no cuenta con derivaciones directas a psicología clínica, y el 40% no dispone de atención psicológica integrada en sus Programas de Interconsulta en pacientes hospitalizados. Se discuten las implicaciones de estos resultados.
Dose-Dense Docetaxel-Cyclophosphamide and Epirubicin-Cisplatin(ddDCEP): Analysis of an alternative platinum-containing regimen in 116 patients with early triple negative breast cancer
Authors: Singh Ashish , Georgy Josh Thomas , Joel Anjana , Thumaty Divya Bala , John Ajoy Oommen , Ramnath Nithya , George Tarun K , Sharma Parth , Patole Shalom , Rebekah Grace , Sigamani Elanthenral , Manipadam Marie Therese , Cherian Anish Jacob , Abraham Deepak Thomas , Paul Mazhuvanchary Jacob , Balakrishnan Rajesh , Sebastian Patricia , Backianathan Selvamani , Chacko Raju Titus
Published: November 2023

We assessed the efficacy, tolerability, and cost-effectiveness of a novel neoadjuvant regimen comprising docetaxel-cyclophosphamide alternating with epirubicin-cisplatin (ddDCEP) administered biweekly for 16 weeks in 116 patients with early triple-negative breast cancer. This regimen achieved a high pathological complete response (ypT0/TisN0) rate of 55.2% and favorable survival outcomes (30-month event-free survival, 91.2%; overall survival, 97%). Febrile neutropenia was observed in 4.3% of patients, and 98% completed at least six of eight cycles. ddDCEP was more cost-effective than contemporary carboplatin-based regimens. This novel approach offers an economically viable and effective alternative to current chemoimmunotherapy regimens, and merits further investigation
Trends of antihypertensive, antidiabetic, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs use among the Health Workers Cohort Study, Mexico 2004 to 2018.
Authors: Ortega-Montiel Janinne , Montoya Alejandra , Soria-Saucedo René , Gallegos-Carrillo Katia , Ramírez-Palacios Paula , Salmerón Jorge , Salazar-Martinez Eduardo
Published: November 2023

Background
Hypertension and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are the most prevalent non-communicable diseases in Mexico and worldwide. According to international practice management guidelines, the principal chronic management therapy is daily oral medication.
Aim
We aim to describe the trends of antihypertensive, antidiabetic, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drugs use among the Mexican adult population from 2004-2018.
Methods
We analyzed data from the Health Workers Cohort Study (HWCS) for males and females aged > 18 years. We calculated the prevalence of chronic diseases and utilization for every kind of antihypertensive, antidiabetic, and NSAIDs (measured by self-reported utilization) at baseline and two follow up (2004, 2010, and 2017). Trends were analyzed using Fisher’s exact test.
Results
Hypertension prevalence increased from 19.8 to 30.3%, higher than T2D prevalence from 7.0 to 12.8% through fourteen years of follow-up. Like the self-reported dual therapy, the proportion of patients using beta-blockers and angiotensin II receptor blockers increased. Regarding T2D, the prevalence of metformin utilization increased to 83.9%. The utilization of common NSAIDs, mainly for muscular pain, remained around 13 to 16%.
Conclusions
Our findings showed a changing prevalence of drug utilization for hypertension and T2D between 2004 and 2018 and consistent use of NSAIDs in the adult Mexican population.
A socio-political history of South Africa’s National Health Insurance
Authors: Whyle Eleanor Beth , Olivier Jill
Published: November 2023

Background. Spurred by the WHO’s endorsement of universal health coverage as a universal goal of health systems, many countries are undertaking health financing reforms. The nature of these reforms, and the policy processes by which they are achieved, will depend on context-specific factors, including the history of reform efforts and the political imperatives driving reforms. South Africa’s pursuit of universal health coverage through a National Health Insurance is the latest in a nearly 100-year history of health system reform efforts shaped by social and political realities.
Methods. We conducted an interdisciplinary, retrospective literature review to explore how these reform efforts have unfolded, and been shaped by the contextual realities of the moment. We began the review by identifying peer-reviewed literature on health system reform in South Africa, and iteratively expanded the search through author tracking, citation tracking and purposeful searches for material on particular events or processes referenced in the initial body of evidence. Data was extracted and organised chronologically into nine periods.
Results. The analysis suggests that in South Africa politics; the power of the private sector; competing policy priorities and budgetary constraints; and ideas, values and ideologies have been particularly important in constraining, and sometimes spurring, health system reform efforts. Political transitions and pressures, including the introduction of apartheid in 1948, anti-apartheid opposition, the transition to democracy, and corruption and governance failures, have alternately created political imperatives for reform, and constrained reform efforts. In addition, the country’s political history has given rise to dominant ideas, values and ideologies that imbue health system reform with a particular social meaning. While these ideas and values increase opposition and complicate reform efforts, they also help to expose the inequities of the current system as problematic and re-emphasise the need for reform.
Conclusion. Ultimately, this analysis demonstrates the context-specific nature of health system reform processes and the influence of history on what sorts of reforms are politically feasible and socially acceptable, even in the context of a global push for universal health coverage.
An updated and unified earthquake catalog of Bangladesh for seismic hazard assessment
Authors: Rana Sohel , Bhuiyan M. Abdur Rahman , Ali Shafayat Bin , Mukhlis Mohammad Raihan
Published: November 2023

A comprehensive earthquake catalog is an important input for reliable seismic hazard assessment. In the present study, an updated and unified earthquake catalog has been compiled for Bangladesh covering 150N–320N and 830E–980E. A large number of earthquake event data has been collected from various sources including ISC–GEM Catalog, USGS catalog, ISC Bulletin, etc. Collected data have then been compiled and fake or duplicate events have been eliminated. Earthquake magnitudes that were not reported in moment magnitude (Mw) have been converted to Mw using conversion relations compatible with regional earthquake events. The compiled earthquake catalog consists of 8,024 earthquake events with magnitudes 3.56≤Mw≤8.8 for the period of 825 to 2021. Declustering of the catalog has been performed to remove the foreshocks and aftershocks which results in 7,219 earthquakes in the final catalog. A completeness analysis has been performed for the final catalog. This study proposes Gutenberg-Richter’s earthquake magnitude-frequency relationships for the whole region as well as for five selected regions based on the existing faults within the country. This study provides a database with a solid background for future works in the field of seismicity, seismic hazard assessment, and ground response studies for the country.
Transferable multi-objective factory layout planning using simulation-based deep reinforcement learning
Authors: Klar Matthias , Schworm Philipp , Wu Xiangqian , Simon Peter , Glatt Moritz , Ravani Bahram , Aurich Jan C.
Published: November 2023

Factory layout planning aims at finding an optimized layout configuration under consideration of varying influences such as the material flow characteristics. Manual layout planning can be characterized as a complex decision-making process due to a large number of possible placement options. Automated planning approaches aim at reducing the manual planning effort by generating optimized layout variants in the early stages of layout planning. Recent developments have introduced deep Reinforcement Learning (RL) based planning approaches that allow to optimize a layout under consideration of a single optimization criterion. However, within layout planning, multiple partially conflicting planning objectives have to be considered. Such multiple objectives are not considered by existing RL-based approaches. This paper addresses this research gap by presenting a novel deep RL-based layout planning approach that allows consideration of multiple objectives for optimization. Furthermore, existing RL-based planning approaches only consider analytically formulated objectives such as the transportation distance. Consequently, dynamic influences in the material flow are neglected which can result in higher operational costs of the future factory. To address this issue, a discrete event simulation module is developed that allows simulating manufacturing and material flow processes simultaneously for any layout configuration generated by the RL approach. Consequently, the presented approach considers material flow simulation results for multi-objective optimization. To investigate the capabilities of RL-based factory layout planning, different RL architectures are compared based on a simplified application scenario. Throughput time, media supply, and material flow clarity are considered as optimization objectives. The best performing architecture is then applied to an exemplary application scenario and compared with the results obtained by a combined version of the genetic algorithm and tabu search, the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm, and the optimal solution. Finally, an industrial planning scenario with 43 functional units is considered. The results show that the performance of RL compared to meta-heuristics depends on the considered computation time. It is found that meta-heuristics lead to superior results in the early computation phase. However, with time, RL achieves comparable results for throughput time and better results for material flow clarity. Finally, the potential of applying transfer learning is investigated for three different application scenarios. It is observed that RL can learn generalized patterns for factory layout planning, which allows to significantly reduce the required training time and can lead to improved solution quality.
New vehicle control strategy for fuel consumption and battery state of health improvement in a series hybrid vehicle utilizing fuzzy logic
Authors: Moghimi Mohsen , Teymoori Mohammad Mahdi
Published: November 2023

Series hybrid vehicles have become increasingly popular due to their high efficiency and low fuel consumption. However, the efficiency of a series hybrid electric vehicle largely depends on its control strategy. This paper presents a practical control strategy that optimizes the performance of series hybrid vehicle in terms of fuel consumption. To achieve this objective, the power-follower strategy which uses a fuzzy controller was employed. The combination of the fuzzy controller and the optimal working method for the combustion engine resulted in improvements in fuel consumption and battery state of health. To validate the GT-Power model, experiments were designed and conducted. Three control strategies (thermostat, power-follower, and Max-SOC) were simulated and compared to evaluate the fuel efficiency of the vehicle model. The power-follower strategy led to a 3.7% reduction in fuel consumption compared to the thermostat strategy (currently implemented as the RUNNA strategy), and a 60.1% reduction compared to the Max-SOC strategy. Moreover, using the power-follower method instead of a thermostat prevented frequent charging and discharging of the battery, which is beneficial for improving the battery's state of charge.
Navigating the Unforeseen: Dental Students' Perspectives on Sudden Curriculum Shift
Authors: Nafea Ebtihaj
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Sudden changes in the educational system can have adverse effects on students. At ... University, dental students experienced two unexpected curriculum changes within a two-year period: the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the national transition to a three-term system. This study aims to investigate the impact of these changes on dental students.
Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten fifth-year students, focusing on their perceptions of the curriculum changes and their thoughts and strategies for adapting to them.
Results: The findings revealed that the abrupt curriculum changes were associated with elevated stress levels and hindered academic achievements. The students viewed the national curriculum transition negatively, considering it to be even more challenging than the pandemic itself.
Conclusions: The manner in which the reasons for curriculum changes were justified had a significant influence on students' perceptions. This research provides recommendations for facilitating a seamless curriculum transition.
Experimental study on buildability and mechanical properties of 3D printing cob
Authors: Wu xikai , Shi Qingxuan , Huo Jian , Tao Yi
Published: November 2023

The application of 3D printing technology to earth buildings conforms to the development concept of low carbon, green and intelligent construction. The key issue lies in the development of earth material with both favorable buildability and sufficient mechanical properties. In this study, the printing parameters of mixture for 3D printing with different water contents were optimized. The optimum water content of 3D printing cob was determined based on the buildability. The result shows that when the flow spreading diameter is between 140 mm and 160 mm, 3D printing cob has good buildability performance. The optimum water content is 24.6%. In addition, anisotropic performance was analyzed by compressive strength tests from three orthogonal directions. In particular, according to the test results of single printing limit height and yield stress, the buildability of 3D printing cob wall was analyzed. The building strategy of the printing divided into multiple times was obtained.
Effect of whitening toothpastes on the surface roughness and microhardness of human teeth – an in vitro study
Authors: Jamwal Navodita , Rao Ashwini , MC Gowri Shankar , Shenoy Ramya , BH Mithun Pai , Jodalli Praveen , KS Aparna , BR Avinash
Published: November 2023

Objective: To determine the effect of whitening toothpastes on the surface roughness and microhardnessof human teeth.
Methodology: Surface roughness was estimated using the Talysurf instrument, and microhardness was estimated using theVickers hardness tester before and after the application of whitening toothpastes on mounted extracted human teeth.
Results: In the activated charcoal group, there was a reduction in the surface roughness from 1.21 at baseline to 1.09 at 1 month and a further reduction to 1.02 at 3 months, which was found to be statistically significant. However, no statistically significant difference in surface roughness was found in the other toothpaste groups. With respect to microhardness, all 4 whitening toothpastes showed a statistically significant reduction in microhardness after 3 months of brushing. There was a statistically significant difference between groups 2 and 5 and 4 and 5, indicating a greater reduction in microhardness values in groups 2 and 4.
Conclusion: This study showed that whitening toothpaste containing activated charcoal significantly reduced the surface roughness, whereas toothpastes with blue covarine and toothpastes containing activated charcoalsignificantly reduced the microhardness of the tooth.
Clinical relevance: This study emphasizes the need for healthcare professionals to be aware of the potential disadvantages of whitening toothpastes and make evidence-based decisions when recommending the product to patients.
Discovery of the origin of the enormous 88Zr neutron-capture cross section and quantifying its impact on applications
Authors: Stamatopoulos Athanasios , Koehler Paul , Cooper Andrew , Couture Aaron , DiGiovine Brad , Matyskin Artem , Mocko Veronika , Morrell Jonathan , O'Brien Ellen , Vermeulen Christiaan
Published: November 2023

The probability for a radioactive 88Zr nucleus (83.4 day half life) to absorb neutrons across resonance energies — its neutron-capture resonance integral — is the largest ever reported and implies that the neutron-capture cross section is orders of magnitude larger than previously thought at energies relevant to nuclear test diagnostics and nucleosynthesis applications. However, these applications require the shape of this cross section across a range of energies, not just this integral quantity. We measured the 88Zr neutron total cross section from 0.0253 to 500 eV. Because the same resonances or other nuclear structure responsible for the neutron capture-cross section are reflected in the total cross section, we used these data to extract the former from the latter as a function of energy. Our data reveal a resonance at 0.171 eV and result in a thermal neutron-capture cross section of 771,000±31,000 barns, in good agreement with the recently published value. In contrast, the neutron-capture resonance integral extracted from our data, 15,210±670 barns, is a factor of 200 smaller than the recently reported value. We discuss the impact of this difference on applications.
Predictive Role of Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index and Neutrophil/lymphocyte Ratio Values in Infants with Retinopathy of Prematurity
Authors: Oruz Oguzhan , Dervişoğulları Mehmet , İncekaş Caner
Published: November 2023

Objectives: To search the relationship between serum neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) values with the development of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and the requirement for laser treatment.Methods: This retrospective cohort study was carried out with 195 preterm infants between 2012 and 2023. The NLR, PLR, LMR, and SII values were calculated on both the first day and at the end of the first month after birth. The association between development of ROP and other risk factors were analyzed using univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis.Results Of patients, 92 infants were with ROP. Laser treatment was administered to 36 infants. The postnatal first-day NLR and SII values were higher in infants with ROP than in infants without ROP (p < 0.001 for both). Postnatal first-month NLR, LMR, and SII values were higher in infants with ROP (p < 0.001, p = 0.007, and p < 0.001, respectively). In multivariate analyses, postnatal first-day NLR and first-month LMR values were regarded as independent risk factors for the development of ROP (OR:8.867 and 1.286, p = 0.002 and p = 0.009, respectively). In multivariate analyses performed for laser treatment requirement, postnatal first-month PLR and SII values were determined as independent risk factors (OR:0.951 and 1.011, respectively, p = 0.004 for both).Conclusions Postnatal first-day NLR and first-month LMR values were determined as independent risk factors for the development of ROP. For the requirement of laser treatment, the postnatal first-month PLR and SII values were determined as independent risk factors.
Dual-inhibition of NAMPT and PAK4 induces anti-tumor effects in 3D-spheroids model of platinum-resistant ovarian cancer
Authors: Annunziata Christina , Kudo Kei , Greer Yoshimi , Yoshida Teruhiko , Harrington Brittney , Korrapati Soumya , Shibuya Yusuke , Henegar Leah , Kopp Jeffrey , Fujii Takeo , Lipkowitz Stanley
Published: November 2023

Ovarian cancer follows a characteristic progression pattern, forming multiple tumor masses enriched with cancer stem cells (CSCs) within the abdomen. Most patients develop resistance to standard platinum-based drugs, necessitating better treatment approaches. To target CSCs, inhibition of nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT), which is the rate-limiting enzyme in the salvage pathway for NAD+ synthesis, has been explored in ovarian cancer. KPT-9274 is an innovative drug targeting both NAMPT and PAK4. However, its effectiveness against ovarian cancer has not been validated. Here, we show the efficacy and mechanisms of KPT-9274 in treating 3D-cultured spheroids that are resistant to platinum-based drugs. In these spheroids, KPT-9274 not only inhibited NAD+ production in NAMPT-dependent cell lines, but also suppressed NADPH and ATP production, indicating reduced mitochondrial function. It also downregulated expression of genes involved with inflammation and DNA repair. Moreover, KPT-9274 impaired the kinase activity of PAK4 by altering the localization from cytoplasmic to nucleus, leading to decreased phosphorylation of S6 Ribosomal protein, AKT, and β-Catenin in the cytoplasm in a NAD+- dependent manner. These findings suggest that KPT-9274 is a promising treatment for ovarian cancer patients resistant to platinum drugs. Our study also indicates that the identification of specific NAD+-producing pathway is required for stratification of patients who can benefit from a KPT-9274 therapy.
A substitutional quantum defect in WS2 discovered by high-throughput computational screening and fabricated by site-selective STM manipulation
Authors: Thomas John , Chen Wei , Xiong Yihuang , Barker Bradford , Zhou Junze , Chen Weiru , Rossi Antonio , Kelly Nolan , Yu Zhuohang , Zhou Da , Kumari Shalini , Barnard Edward , Robinson Joshua , Terrones Mauricio , Schwartzberg Adam , Ogletree D. Frank , Rotenberg Eli , Noack Marcus , Griffin Sinéad , Raja Archana , Strubbe David , Rignanese Gian-Marco , Weber-Bargioni Alexander , Hautier Geoffroy
Published: November 2023

Point defects in two-dimensional materials are of key interest for quantum information science. However, the space of possible defects is immense, making the identification of high-performance quantum defects extremely challenging. Here, we perform high-throughput (HT) first-principles computational screening to search for promising quantum defects within WS2, which present localized levels in the band gap that can lead to bright optical transitions in the visible or telecom regime. Our computed database spans more than 700 charged defects formed through substitution on the tungsten or sulfur site. We found that sulfur substitutions enable the most promising quantum defects. We computationally identify the neutral cobalt substitution to sulfur (Co$_{\rm S}^{0}$) as very promising and fabricate it with scanning tunneling microscopy (STM). The Co$_{\rm S}^{0}$ electronic structure measured by STM agrees with first principles and showcases an attractive new quantum defect. Our work shows how HT computational screening and novel defect synthesis routes can be combined to design new quantum defects.
Vascular E-Learning in Mainland China: results of the e-Learning during the COVID-19 pandemic (EL-COVID) study
Authors: Bartos Oana , Patelis Nikolaos , Jing Zaiping , Feng Jiaxuan , Trenner Matthias , Reis Paulo Eduardo Ocke , Nugroho Nyityasmono Tri , Elkouri Stephane , Karam Lamisse , Ionac Mihai , Berczeli Marton , Jongkind Vincent , Yeung Kak Khee , Katsargyris Athanasios , Avgerinos Efthymios , Moris Demetrios , Choong Andrew , Ng Jun Jie , Cvjetko Ivan , Antoniou George A. , Ghibu Phillipe , Svetlikov Alexei , Pedrajas Fernando Gallardo , Ebben Harm , Stepak Hubert , Kostiv Sviatoslav , Ancetti Stefano , Mekkar Akli , Magnitskiy Leonid , Domingos Liliana Fidalgo
Published: November 2023

Purpose: With the onset of the COVID 19 pandemic, digitalization came to the forefront of education delivery and continuous professional development took place predominantly online. We investigate the relevance of e-Learning in the vascular surgery community in mainland People’s Republic of China (PRC) and address the regional variability in comparison with the international community
Methods: The international EL-COVID survey took place online from June 15, 2020 to October 15, 2020. We subtracted and analyzed the data from the PRC participants.
Results: From 84 different countries, PRC had the largest contribution to the EL-COVID study (n = 109, 12.7%). Most of the Chinese responders were experienced vascular surgeons (73.39% vs. 53.81%; p=0.0001) and attended more than four eL activities (52.29% vs. 54.08%; not significant). Female vascular surgeons were underrepresented: 7.33% vs. 23.15%; p=0.0002. While participation at international activities did not vary, attendance at national eL activities was reduced (27.52% vs. 73.62%, p<0.0001). Obtaining official accreditation/CME points was relevant in choosing what eL opportunities to attend. Employers were less supportive of participation during working hours (17.43% vs. 46.52%; p<0,0001). eL opportunities were mainly promoted on social media (44.04% vs. 27.17%; p=0.0003) and to a lesser degree through direct contact from national/international societies (27.52% vs. 39.49%; p=0.016).
Conclusion: As in other countries, eL is gaining relevance in the vascular surgery community of PRC. Adequate support as well as improving the dissemination strategy of national societies are needed to meet the demands of the modern vascular surgeon.
Identification of a novel small molecule to inhibit gastric cancer cells growth
Authors: Nie Shuangfa , Li Lei , Hu Xiaofeng , Wang Tao , Fei Jiandong
Published: November 2023

A majority of gastric cancer (GC) patients die from tumor metastasis or recurrence as GC is not sensitive to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. It is in desperate need to develop new therapeutic agents. In this study, we screened a novel compound against gastric cancer cells and subsequently investigated the molecular mechanisms. Gastric cancer AGS cells were used as models to determine the cytotoxic effect of 450 compounds (10 µM) from the Topscience Preclinical Compound Library by CCK-8 assay. Our studies demonstrated that 32 compounds showed inhibitory effect on the growth of AGS cells, with ZM-241385 be the most potent one, which killed all the AGS cells at 48h. Next, ZM-241385 was shown to induce autophagy in AGS cells by the activation of AMPK pathway. In addition, ZM-241385 induced cell apoptosis dependent on caspase 3, caspase 8 and caspase 9. Finally, inhibition of autophagy by chloroquine augmented ZM-241385 induced apoptotic cell death, indicating that autophagy exerts a protective role against ZM-241385 induced apoptosis. Together, our data indicate that we have screened a novel compound which inhibits AGS cell proliferation by inducing cell apoptosis and activates autophagy which, however, attenuates ZM-241385 induced apoptosis.
Estimation of sodium consumption in hypertensive patients based on urine sodium excretion: A Preliminary study
Authors: Usman Suharno
Published: November 2023

Adults and children ingested an average of 8.0–4.7 grams (444.45–261.11 mmol) of sodium daily, with an average urine sodium excretion of 151.78–54.78 mmol/l. As a result, it is strongly advised to limit sodium intake. The objective of this study to investigate and identify sodium intake by estimating urinary sodium excretion in hypertensive patients. A cross-sectional assessment of the 73 samples of 24-hour urine collection procedure using the KME-03 salinity checker and blood pressure (BP). Estimates of average daily salt (sodium) consumption (6.44 grams; 110.104 mmol). Female participants had greater estimated average sodium intake than males (6.49 grams110.99 mmol; 6.35 g-108.57 mmol). The correlation with systolic BP had no significance with direction negative correlation (r=-.330, p =.054) and positive correlation with diastolic BP (r=.343, p =.371). The participants' average urine salt excretion exceeded the reference norm and salt consumption was more than five g/d. Diverse population, repeated measurements, and determining the frequency of meals were needed
Extension of synthetic panels and the multilevel model to study the dynamics and factors of variation in primary learners performance
Authors: AKPO TALAGBÉ GABIN , Houéssigbédé Anselme , Alladatin Judicael
Published: November 2023

Recent studies show that the skills developed by learners are the result of many factors linked to the learner, the education system or external conditions. The approach generally used is macroeconomic, comparing the level of learners based on the characteristics of school systems and subtracting the temporal evaluation of performance. Thus, determining the elements contributing to changes in reading in mathematics is of public utility importance. In this study, we use the multilevel model and synthetic panel construction for hierarchical data to determine the explanatory factors for skills at the start and end of primary school. Using research data from the PASEC project conducted in 2014 and 2019 for the Grade 2 and Grade 6 levels of education, we use two-level hierarchical linear models and synthetic panel construction to study the temporal dynamics and explanatory factors impacting performance. We obtain from the synthetic panel model that learners' performance in reading increased slightly in 2019, from 62.44% and 63.33%. In math, on the other hand, performance subsequently balanced out, rising to 85.74% and 50.16% in math and reading respectively. In addition, factors such as Gender, Like to read and Understand your teacher had a negative impact on performance in French, while the variables Electricity available, Eat lunch and Country area had a positive impact on performance. The impact of these results on the challenges of improving the education system is discussed. This study clearly shows that performance has not improved significantly, and that mathematics performance has regressed. It therefore suggests that training needs to be reviewed, starting with the factors that have a negative impact on competence, such as the gender effect and the availability of resources at home. It also calls for parents to be involved in early childhood education.