bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of craniocervical atherosclerotic stenosis on the occurence of neurologic deterioration of patients with small vessel occlusion stroke and their clinical outcomes
Authors: Han Wei , He Yue , Shao YuanWei , Sibomana Pacifique , Yang Yi , Yu Ming
Published: August 2023

Objective
To explore the effect of craniocervical atherosclerotic stenosis (AS) on the occurrence of ND in SVO stroke patients and on the outcomes of patients with SVO stroke with ND (SVO-ND).
Methods
Patients with SVO stroke were consecutively enrolled. AS was defined as a craniocervical artery with a stenosis of ≥ 50% caused by atherosclerosis.
Results
The presence [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 2.75, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.25–6.07, p = 0.012] and the number of craniocervical AS (aOR = 2.16, 95% CI = 1.33–3.49, p = 0.002) were associated with the occurrence of ND in patients with SVO stroke, respectively. Compared with those with none craniocervical AS, the risk of ND increased in SVO stroke patients with multiple AS (aOR = 6.56, 95% CI = 2.05–21.01, p = 0.002), and the risk of poor outcome increased in SVO-ND patients (aOR = 47.75, 95% CI = 1.66–375.17, p = 0.024).
Conclusion
An evaluation of the craniocervical AS number is a stratification of ND for SVO stroke patients, and a stratification of poststroke disability for SVO-ND patients.
Cognitive deficits in clinical high risk, genetically at high-risk for psychosis and patients with first-episode schizophrenia
Authors: 董 芳 , Mao Zhen , Wang Lu , Bo Qijing , Li Feng , Wang Chuanyue
Published: August 2023

Background: Cognitive deficits are core characteristics of schizophrenia, which precedes the emergence of psychotic symptoms. Clinical high risk for psychosis (CHR) individuals and genetically high-risk of psychosis (GHR) individuals also exhibit cognitive impairments, but it is not clear which domains of cognitive impairments in these two groups were more similar to those of schizophrenia patients. Moreover, it is not clear whether quality factors contribute to this impairment or the disease state causes it. This study aims to explore the cognitive impairments profiles in CHR, GHR and patients with first episode schizophrenia (FES).
Method: We compared the cognitive functions of three groups and a healthy control group (HCs) using the MATRICS Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB). Our sample consisted of 56 patients with FES, 42 individuals at CHR, 26 individuals at GHR, and 62 HCs.
Results: Individuals with FES, GHR, and CHR showed significant impairment in most MCCB domains, with the exception of visual learning, when compared to the HCs. None of the MCCB domains were able to accurately distinguish between CHR and GHR individuals. GHR and CHR individuals had intermediate scores between FES and HCs on the domain of processing speed and attention. However, the impairment levels in working memory and verbal learning were similar across all three groups. The CHR performance in social cognition was comparable to that of the HCs, whereas there was no significant difference in problem-solving scores between the GHR and HC groups.
Conclusion: Our findings suggest that significant cognitive deficits exist in CHR, GHR, and FES individuals, and these deficits vary across domains. Cognitive impairment may be a key feature of individuals with schizophrenia, with processing speed and attention potentially serving as reliable markers for identifying those at risk for psychosis. The damage of reasoning/problem solving may be qualitative trait, while as social recgnition may be state characteristic of schizophrenia.
Validation of the Assessments of Adult Health Literacy: A Rasch Measurement Model Approach
Authors: Fleary Sasha A.
Published: August 2023

Background: Both the World Health Organization and U.S. Department for Health and Human Services have emphasized the importance of health literacy (HL) to improving population health and reducing health disparities. HL includes three core areas/qualities: functional (i.e., health-related reading, writing, and numeracy), interactive/communicative (i.e., skills for interacting with multiple constituents and sources of information and navigating the health environment), and critical (i.e., personal and community advocacy for health). HL is implicated in medical adherence, preventive health, mental health stigma and help-seeking, and health decision-making. Though HL is critical to health and health decision-making, research on HL is still relatively limited, with most research focusing on functional HL. A major gap in research is related to the lack of measurement of interactive and critical HL. To address this gap, this study modified and assessed the validity of the Assessments of Adolescent Health Literacy (AAHL-Adolescent), test-based assessments of adolescents’ functional, interactive, and critical HL, in an adult sample.
Methods: One item from the AAHL-Adolescent item bank was modified to be more appropriate for an adult sample. Adults (n=2346) completed a measurement battery that included the HL item bank (12 functional, 15 interactive, and 9 critical HL questions), Newest Vital Sign (NVS), Single-Item Literacy Scale (SILS), demographics, and questions about HL-related behaviors. The assessments were evaluated and validated using Rasch measurement models. Convergent and criterion validity were assessed.
Results: The final 7-item functional, 10-item interactive, and 7-item critical HL assessments and their composite (24 items) fit their respective Rasch models. Item-level invariance was established for gender, ethnicity, education, and age across all assessments. Differential item functioning for race was noted for two items on the interactive HL assessments. Good convergent validity with the NVS and SILS and good criterion validity with the HL-related behaviors were observed for all assessments.
Conclusions
The AAHL-Adult is the first test-based instrument validated in the U.S. that includes assessments for all three core qualities of HL. These assessments have utility across multiple settings, including public health program planning and evaluation, intervention development and evaluation, and clinical settings.
Small molecules DAPT and Forskolin enhances ganglion cells expression in porcine retinal progenitor cells
Authors: Singh Deepti , Dromel Pierre , Rajkumar Jeevan , Maddison Michael , Young Michael
Published: August 2023

Background
Retinal ganglion cell (RGCs) loss underlies several retinal degenerative diseases, including Glaucoma and NF1-OPG. RGCs are essential cells in the visual pathway. These cells transmit the signal gathered from the retinal photoreceptors to the brain via the optic nerve and loss of these cells leads to permanent loss of vision. Presently there is no treatment, however, in the last decade cell replacement has shown potential to restore vision in these conditions.
Materials and Methods
In this study, we have established protocol with a dose dependent response differentiating porcine retinal progenitors (pRPCs) into retinal ganglion cells (RGC) with DAPT and Forskolin treatments. Cells were initially treated with a known concentration of DAPT and Forskolin that has been widely used to culture RGCs.
Results
We identify the optimal concentration and time course that yields the highest expression of RGCs, pRPCs were cultured for 4 weeks in 25 different concentrations of small molecules. At week 2 and 3 approximately 40% of the pRPCs population expressed the neuronal marker TUJ1 and RGCs markers such as RBPMS and Thy1.1. Differentiated cells showed the lowest proliferative index as indicated by Ki-67 expression.
Conclusion
This data demonstrates that specific concentrations of DAPT and Forskolin can induce RPCs to undergo differentiation into RGCs linage.
Overexpression of SAV111 in Streptomyces avermitilis increases avermectin production by binding to aveA1 gene promoter
Authors: Luo Shuai , Zhu Jianya , Zhang Hucheng , Zhu Hua , Wang Xiaowen , Zhang Rong , Wang Xiaojie , Liu Linying , Deng Lina
Published: August 2023

Background
Avermectin antibiotics from Streptomyces avermitilis are used widely in medicine and agriculture. The LuxR family transcription regulators modulate antibiotic biosynthesis in addition to regulating virulence factor expression, biofilm formation, and the hosts′ immune response. At present, there was no report about the regulation of LuxR family proteins on avermection production.
Results
We investigated the mechanism by which overexpression of SAV111, a LuxR family regulator, promoted avermectin production. Shaking flask fermentation of the SAV111 overexpression strain verified that SAV111 promotes avermectin biosynthesis, and indicated SAV111 stimulates cell growth. Streaking experiments showed earlier emergence of morphological differentiation of the SAV111 overexpression strain. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays indicated that SAV111 mainly affects avermectin production by binding to the promoter region of aveA1, a type I polyketide synthase gene in the avermectin biosynthesis pathway.
Conclusions
Results from this work showed that SAV111 promotes avermectin production, cell growth and morphological differentiation in S. avermitilis. Overexpression of SAV111 improves avermectin production mainly by promoting aveA1 transcription. Our findings will expand the regulation network of avermectin biosynthesis and provide a theoretical basis for constructing high-yield strains.
Flashback to a War Zone: A Qualitative Analysis of Black Women’s Experiences During the Racial Pandemic
Authors: Williams Tiffany R. , Erving Christy L. , Bass Jeffery E. , Mitchell Taeja , Martin Reniece , Blasingame Miaya , Hotz Allison
Published: August 2023

The pandemic in 2020 commenced a particularly turbulent era of racial unrest, social injustice, and violence toward Black women. Drawing from Black feminist and intersectionality theories, this qualitative inquiry explored Black women’s experiences of racism and sexism during the racial pandemic. Two hundred forty-one Black women shared their narratives and reflections. The analysis revealed two major themes: 1) racialized violence and harassment (e.g., stereotypes, dominance) and 2) their psychological consequences (e.g., anxiety, depression, racial trauma). Clinical implications are offered to support and empower Black women.
Potentially toxic elements in consumed indoor shrimp farming associated with diet, water and sediment levels: bioaccumulation in head and body tissues in relation to biometric parameters
Authors: Ramos-Miras José Joaquín , Sanchez-Muros Maria Jose , Renteria Patricio , de Carrasco Carlos Gil , Roca-Perez Luis , Boluda-Navarro Mireia , Pro Javier , Martin Jose Antonio Rodriguez
Published: August 2023

Shrimp production is an important industry for many countries and shrimp consumption is increasing worldwide. Shrimps are a highly nutritional food, but can pose a risk for human health if subject to high levels of environmental contaminants. This work studies the presence of As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb and Zn in shrimps from Ecuador and compares them to such contents noted in other shrimp-production areas in the world to evaluate the possible risks associated with these elements for consumer health, and to relate them to PTEs contents in water, sediments and diets, and also to animal biometric parameters. The PTEs levels (mg kg− 1DM) obtained are: in the head: As (3.52–6.11), Cd (0.02–0.10), Co (0.14–0.49) Cr (0.23–4.89), Cu (99.9–233.0), Ni (0.52–1.86), Pb (0.24–1.09), Zn (51.8-100.5) and Hg (µg kg− 1DM )(10.00-66.81); in the tail: (0.91–3.21), Cd (0.01–0.02), Co (0.01–0.43) Cr (0.01–6.52), Cu (20.0-72.44), Ni (0.15–2.03), Pb (0.01–0.69), Zn (31.2–66.1) and Hg (µg kg− 1DM)(10.00-67.18). The concentration of all the PTEs is generally lower than the limits set for seafood by European regulations, except for As in the cephalothorax (4.63 mg kg− 1). Different behaviour for PTEs accumulation in shrimps was found, which preferentially tend to accumulate in the cephalothorax, except for Hg (40.13 µg kg− 1DM), which accumulates in muscle (body) and is associated with contents of proteins, lipids and total shrimp weight. Nonetheless, the Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) values for PTEs indicate that the consumption of shrimp muscles from Ecuador does not pose a human health risk because the values of these indices are below 1 in all cases.
Association of exposures to serum terpenes with the prevalence of dyslipidemia: a population-based analysis
Authors: Ba Yanqun , Guo Qixin , Meng Shasha , Tong Guoxin , He Ying , Guan Yihong , Zheng Beibei
Published: August 2023

This study sought to examine hitherto unresearched relationships between serum terpenes and the prevalence of dyslipidemia. Serum terpenes such as limonene, α-pinene and β-pinene from the 2013–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were used as independent variables. Continuous lipid variables included total cholesterol [TC], high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL-C], non-HDL-C, triglycerides [TG], low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [LDL-C], residual cholesterol [RC], and apolipoprotein B [Apo B]. Binary lipid variables (elevated TC, ≥ 5.18 mmol/L; lowered HDL-C, < 1.04 mmol/L in men and < 1.30 mmol/L in women; elevated non-HDL-C, ≥ 4.2 mmol/L; elevated TG, ≥ 1.7 mmol/L; elevated LDL-C, ≥ 3.37 mmol/L; elevated RC, ≥ 1.0 mmol/L; and elevated Apo B, ≥ 1.3 g/L) suggest dyslipidaemia. Serum terpene relationships with lipid variables were investigated using multivariate logistic and weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression. The study for TC, HDL-C, and non-HDL-C included a total of 1,621 people, whereas the analysis for TG, LDL-C, RC, and Apo B comprised 761 participants. We found that tertiles of serum terpene were positively associated with binary (elevated TC, non-HDL-C, TG, LDL-C, RC, Apo B, and lowered HDL-C) and continuous (TC, non-HDL-C, TG, LDL-C, RC, and Apo B, but not HDL-C) serum lipid variables. There was no significant correlation between serum α-pinene tertiles and elevated Apo B. A WQS regression analysis revealed that all serum lipid variables were linked with a blend of three serum terpenes. According to our data, the prevalence of dyslipidemia was correlated with serum concentrations of three terpenes both separately and collectively.
The propagation path of Chinese traditional culture in Korea based on artificial intelligence technology
Authors: Piao Shuying
Published: August 2023

In order to optimize the dissemination effect of traditional Chinese culture in South Korea, this paper studies the propagation path of traditional Chinese culture in South Korea based on artificial intelligence technology, and proposes a method for external dissemination of traditional Chinese culture based on artificial intelligence technology. This method takes the network path of culture spreading to Korea as the research core, uses a cultural resource reduction method based on Manhattan distance, reduces traditional cultural resources in the network propagation path, and optimizes the setting of support vector machine parameters through improved Sparrow algorithm to extract excellent traditional cultural resources in a classified manner; A communication model based on the recommendation of excellent traditional cultural resources is used to recommend excellent traditional culture of interest to Korean users in the form of excellent cultural resources recommendation, and optimize the dissemination effect of Chinese traditional culture in Korea. After testing, this method can improve the proportion of excellent resources in the dissemination of traditional Chinese cultural resources in South Korea, and optimize the dissemination effect of traditional culture in South Korea.
Resolving Electron and Hole Transport Properties in Semiconductor Materials by Constant Light Induced Magneto Transport
Authors: Musiienko Artem , Yang Fengjiu , Gries Thomas William , Frasca Chiara , Al-Ashouri Amran , Sağlamkaya Elifnaz , Lang Felix , Kojda Danny , Huang Yi-Teng , Hoye Robert , Ahmadi Mahshid , Kanak Andrii , Abate Antonio
Published: August 2023

The knowledge of minority and majority charge carrier properties allows for tailoring the design of semiconductor devices and controlling the performance of solar cells, transistors, detectors, sensors, and LEDs. At the moment, the detection of minority and majority charge transport properties is challenging which limits the accelerated development of existing and the discovery of new materials and material structures. In this work, we developed the Constant Light Induced Magneto Transport (CLIMAT) method which resolves electron and hole mobility, lifetime, diffusion coefficient and length, and quasi-Fermi level splitting. We demonstrate the implication of the CLIMAT for two different semiconductor materials used in solar cells - silicon and metal halide perovskite (MHP). We resolve the transport properties of electrons and holes by combing with light soaking, electrical current, and magnetic field in the CLIMAT method, which predicts the material's effectiveness for solar cell application without making the full device. The accessibility of fourteen material parameters paves the way for in-depth exploration of causal mechanisms limiting the efficiency and functionality of both existing and novel material structures. To demonstrate CLIMAT's broad applicability across the material science community, we further characterized twelve materials with drift mobilities spanning from 10-3 to 103 cm2V-1s-1 and lifetimes varying between 10-9 to 10-3 seconds. The universality of CLIMAT highlights its potential to advance optoelectronic devices and materials in various technological fields.
The impact of producer services agglomeration on the industrial structure upgrading: Evidence from the four urban agglomerations in China
Authors: Li Hai-yan , Chen Yin-zhong
Published: August 2023

According to different agglomeration patterns of producer services, the paper empirically tests the impact of producer services agglomeration on industrial structure upgrading by using the data of 59 prefecture level cities in China's four major urban agglomerations from 2005 to 2018. The results show that producer services agglomeration in the four urban agglomerations has a significant impact on industrial structure upgrading, and the robustness test show that the research conclusion is reliable, but the impact effects of different agglomeration patterns on industrial structure upgrading are different. Specifically, producer services specialization agglomeration has a "U" shaped effect on industrial structure upgrading, while diversification agglomeration has an inverted "U" shaped effect on industrial structure upgrading. The unbalanced economic development between urban agglomerations determines that there are differences in the impact of producer services agglomeration on industrial structure upgrading. Therefore, the paper further empirically tests the impact of producer services agglomeration on industrial structure upgrading from a regional perspective. The results show that the impact of producer services agglomeration on industrial structure upgrading shows obvious regional differences in action direction, action stage and extreme point, et al. Basing on the conclusions of the research, the paper puts forward relevant policy suggestions to accelerate the industrial structure upgrading of China's four major urban agglomerations from the aspects of accelerating the agglomeration development of producer services and formulating differentiated development strategies.
Direct bandgap emission from strain-doped germanium
Authors: Luo Jun-Wei
Published: August 2023

Drawing inspiration from the significant expansion of Ge volume upon lithiation as a Li-ion battery anode, here, we propose to incorporate Li atoms into the Ge lattice to achieve the desired tensile strain for the transition from an indirect to a direct bandgap. Our first-principles calculations show that a minimal amount of 3 at.% Li can convert Ge from an indirect to a direct bandgap, exhibiting a dipole matrix element comparable to that of typical direct bandgap semiconductors. To enhance compatibility with CMOS technology, we additionally suggest implanting noble gas atoms. We also demonstrate the tunability of the direct-bandgap emission wavelength, enabling coverage of the mid-infrared to far-infrared spectrum through the manipulation of dopant concentration. This novel Si-based light-emitting approach presents exciting prospects for surpassing the physical limitations of silicon technology in the field of photonics.
Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm discovered by Pocket-sized ultrasound in low resource settings: A case report
Authors: Alasasfeh Ihab , Abudawood Rawan , Hwidi Bayan E. , Al-Shami Raghad
Published: August 2023

Introduction:
While AAA is a life-threatening condition that manifests suddenly in the Emergency department less is known about the use of hand-held ultrasound to diagnose it, especially in low-resource settings.
Case presentation:
A 78-year old man whose a known case of hypertension, the family reported he complained of severe loin pain then he collapsed at home, upon arrival to the ED patient was unconscious with unrecordable BP, pulses were intact, rapid sequence intubation (RSI) was done, ECG showed no ischemic changes, a few seconds later the patient becomes pulseless 1 cycle of CPR was done and the patient reverted to sinus rhythm then he was started on noradrenaline immediately, a few minutes later the lower limbs were noted to be paler and colder than upper limbs raising the suspicion of ruptured AAA, point of care US was done using hand-held ultrasound connected to a tablet, the ultrasound showed a ruptured AAA around 8 cm with intimal flap, surgical intervention was not available because of vascular surgery unavailability at that time, the patient becomes pulseless again CPR was initiated with no response despite the blood-transfusion, finally death was announced.
Discussion and conclusion:
Ruptured AAA is considered a vascular surgical emergency with a very high mortality rates, this case report highlights the importance of POCUS in emergency departments especially the cheaper models of hand-held ultrasound probes.
Pregnancy associated breast cancer: Correlation between Parity and Prognostic Factors
Authors: CHEN Yaling , CHEN Jiajian , QI Xiuzhu , LIU Yajing , Qian Yu , CHANG Cai , LI Na , GAO Yi
Published: August 2023

Background and Purpose
Pregnancy associated breast cancer (PABC) has attracted more attention recently. Previous studies have focused on comparison between the prognosis of PABC and non-PABC. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between parity and prognostic factors of PABC.
Methods
In this retrospective study, patients with PABC who underwent surgery at Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center between 2017 and 2021 were analyzed. Data concerning tumor characteristics, reproductive history and survival outcome were recorded.
Results
In total, the median age of 203 patients enrolled was 34 years (range, 22 years to 46 years). Compared with primiparous group, multiparous group had higher rate of clinical stage III ~ IV [33.9% (41/121) vs 18.3% (15/82), P < 0.001], higher rate of IDC of histological grade III [72.9% (62/85) vs 62.5% (40/64), P = 0.002], higher rate of lymphatic metastasis [57.0% (69/121) vs 41.5% (34/82), P = 0.030]. Among the patients who underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy, multiparous group had higher rate of pathological complete response than primiparous group [57.8% (26/45) vs 34.4% (11/32), P = 0.043]. The 2-year disease-free survival rate of primiparous and multiparous group were 82.0% and 74.2% respectively (P = 0.212).
Conclusions
Multiparity was correlated with worse prognostic factors in PABC patients, but no evidence suggesting correlation with worse survival yet.
WITHDRAWN: The Generalized Weibull Poisson G Family of Continuous Probability Distributions with Copulas, Mathematical Properties and Applications to Real Data Sets
Authors: Hashem Atef F. , Abdelkawy M. A. , Muse Abdisalam Hassan , Yousof Haitham M.
Published: August 2023

This scientific report aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of new compound G family of probability distributions with copulas, shedding light on their mathematical properties and demonstrating their applicability in various real data settings. The insights from this study can benefit researchers, statisticians, and practitioners in their efforts to model complex dependencies and make informed decisions based on multivariate data analysis. The versatility of compound families of continuous probability distributions makes them useful for modelling a variety of events. They can be used to simulate the distribution of a system's time to failure, the amount of money lost in a financial transaction, or the number of accidents in a particular year, for instance. One of the main advantages of using compound families of continuous probability distributions is that they are flexible. This means that they can be used to model a wide range of phenomena, even those that are not well-described by other distributions. Additionally, compound families of continuous probability distributions are often easy to understand and use. Another advantage of using compound families of continuous probability distributions is that they can be used to model the dependence between two or more random variables. In this work, a novel G family called the generalized Weibull Poisson G family is derived and analyzed. The new compound G family of distributions is derived based on the zero-truncated-Poisson G and the generalized Weibull G families. Its statistical characteristics are mathematically studied. The Clayton copula, Archimedean-Ali-Mikhail-Haq copula, Renyi's entropy copula, copula of Farlie, Gumbel and Morgenstern and its modified version which contains four minor types are used to construct some new bivariate type G families. The Lomax model with one parameter receives special attention. The relevance of the new family is demonstrated through two examples from everyday life.
The role of preoperative hematology markers in the classification and molecular subtypes of newly diagnosed high-grade gliomas
Authors: Jia Xin , Han Xian , Xiong Mingsong , Zhao Sheng , Liu Jun , Xu Dengbang , Luo Jiben , Chen Xiaozhong , Luo Heng
Published: August 2023

Background: The purpose of our study was to explore the diagnostic value of single and combined hematological makers for the classification and isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)-1/2 mutation molecular subtypes of high-grade gliomas (HGGs).
Methods: A total of 354 newly diagnosed HGG patients were included in this study. First, we compared the levels of hematology indicators in the classification and molecular subtypes of HGGs. Next, the correlation between the levels of hematology indicators and basic clinical features was analyzed. Finally, the diagnostic value of the single and combined hematology indicators for identifying the classification and molecular subtypes of HGGs was determined.
Results: The level of fibrinogen (FIB) was higher in Grade IV (G4) gliomas and G4 IDH wild type (G4 IDH-wt). Nutrition-related indicators such as serum albumin (ALB), albumin/globulin ratio (AGR), and prognostic nutrition index (PNI) were negatively correlated with age, whereas FIB was positively associated with age. Compared with women, men with G4 had a significantly higher AGR and lower serum globulin (GLOB). We found that the best single and combined indicators for distinguishing G4 and G4 IDH-wt from HGGs were FIB [0.595 (0.519-0.672) and 0.615 (0.546-0.684)] and age+FIB [0.712 (0.642-0.783) and 0.726 (0.662-0.791)], respectively.
Conclusions: Preoperative hematological indicators have high diagnostic value for distinguishing G4 and G4 IDH-wt from HGGs, especially FIB combined with age.
Determining the Relationship Between Smoking Behaviors and Menstrual Irregularity in Women
Authors: YAVUZ Nurgül ŞİMAL , Kucukkelepce Didem Simsek , Golbası Zehra
Published: August 2023

Purpose
Smoking rates are increasing among women. Considering that menstrual irregularities are also common, it is thought that there is a need for studies examining the relationship between menstrual irregularities and smoking in women of reproductive age. Therefore, this study was carried out to determine the relationship between women's smoking behaviors and menstrual irregularities.
Methods
Between November and December 2022, the study was done among women aged 15 to 49 in Turkey. The data were collected using the Personal Information Form and the Fagerstrom test for Nicotine Dependence. Data collection tools were converted online via Google Forms, and the link was shared with the participants via e-mail and the WhatsApp messenger application. This cross-sectional and relational study was conducted with a total of 630 women. Descriptive statistics an independent t-test, an ANOVA, and Post hoc analyses were used for the statistical analysis of the study. In statistical analyses, p < 0.05 was accepted as significant.
Results
The study showed that the mean total nicotine dependence of women was 3,06 ± 2,47, and 11% were highly nicotine dependent. The regression analysis showed that the relationship between the nicotine dependence total score and menstrual pain severity was significant (F = 7,168; p = 0,008 < 0.05). The nicotine dependence total score increased the level of menstrual pain severity (ß=0,106).
Conclusion
This study demonstrated that smoking may be a risk factor for menstrual irregularities and that the level of nicotine dependency affects the severity of dysmenorrhea.
An innovative method for occluding the urethral meatus and accessing urethra strictures in retrograde urethrography in males
Authors: Li Wei , Man Libo , Huang Guanglin
Published: August 2023

Objectives: To observe and evaluate the effectiveness and safety of using a sponge plug method to occlude the urethral meatus during retrograde urethrography (RUG) for accessing male urethral strictures.
Methods: 40 male patients with a mean age of 51.4 years and a history of urethral injury were primarily diagnosed with urethral stricture using a urethrocystoscope. RUG was performed using a ureteral catheter with a sponge plug inserted into the external meatus. Iodixanol, a contrast medium, was injected into the urethra or bladder for performing RUG and voiding cystourethrography (VCUG). The patients were positioned obliquely to obtain urethrograms.
Results: All X-ray radiologic procedures for performing urethrography were successful without any overflow of contrast liquid observed. In all cases, the sponge plugs became visible in the resulting images. The external meatuses were directly visualized in all cases on the obtained images, allowing identification of the number, location, and length of strictures as well as coexistent pathologies such as fistulas. In one case, the plug slipped off the meatus immediately after completing the procedure. The pain Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was 0 to 2, mean 0.35. No instances of complication or adverse reactions was observed.
Conclusions: The sponge plug effectively occludes the external urethral meatus for retrograde urethrography, enabling visualization of the actual caliber of the entire urethra, including the strictures and external meatus, by filling it with contrast liquid. This technique is safe and well-tolerated by patients.
Perceived patient safety culture and its associated factors among clinical managers of tertiary hospitals: A cross-sectional survey
Authors: He Haiyan , Chen Xi , Tian Lingyun , Long Yanfang , Li Li , Yang Ning , Tang Siyuan
Published: August 2023

Background
Patient safety is a global challenge influenced by perceived patient safety culture. However, limited knowledge exists regarding the patient safety culture perceived by hospital clinical managers and its associated factors. This study aims to investigate the perceptions of patient safety culture and associated factors among clinical managers of tertiary hospitals in China.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey was conducted from June 19 to July 16 in 2021, involving 539 clinical managers from four tertiary hospitals in Changsha. The Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture (HSOPSC) was utilized to assess perceived patient safety culture. Bivariate, multivariable linear regression, and logistic regression analyses were performed.
Results
The mean score for the total HSOPSC was 72.5 ± 7.6, with dimensional scores ranging from 62.1 (14.9) to 86.6 (11.7). Three dimensions exhibited positive response rates (PRRs) < 50%, indicating areas that need to be improved: “nonpunitive response to errors” (40.5%), “staffing” (41.9%), and “frequency of events reported” (47.4%). Specialized hospitals (β = 1.744, P = 0.037), female gender (β = 2.496, P = 0.003), higher professional title (β = 1.413, P = 0.049), a higher education level (β = 1.316, P = 0.001), and shorter time delays per shift (β=-1.13, P < 0.001) were correlated with higher perceived patient safety culture. Education level, work department, “teamwork within a unit”, “management support for patient safety”, “communication openness”, and “staffing” dimensions were associated with patient safety grades (all P < 0.05). Working years in hospitals, occupations, education level, work departments, hospital nature, professional title, “communication openness”, and “handoffs & transitions” dimensions were associated with the number of adverse events reported (all P < 0.05).
Conclusions
Our study revealed a generally low level of patient safety culture perceived by clinical managers and identified priority areas requiring urgent improvement. The associated factors of patient safety culture provide important guidance for the development of targeted interventions in the future. Promoting patient safety by optimizing the patient safety culture perceived by clinical managers should be prioritized.
ZIF-8-incorporated Cellulose Air Filter for Carbon Dioxide Capture
Authors: Singh Angaraj , Singh Aman , Vedrtnam Ajitanshu , Wdowin Magdalena
Published: August 2023

ZIF-8 (zeolitic imidazolate framework-8) has emerged as a highly promising material for CO2 capture due to its outstanding adsorption capacity and selectivity. In the present study, ZIF-8 and a ZIF-8-based cellulose air filter (ZCAF) were synthesized using a rapid synthesis route and the kraft pulping method, respectively. The synthesized ZIF-8 and ZCAF samples were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The SEM analysis revealed a rhombic dodecahedron morphology characterized by rough and porous features, while energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis confirmed the presence of constituent elements. Furthermore, XRD analyses demonstrated that all observed peaks and bands aligned with the crystalline structure present in the prepared samples. The particle size of the synthesized ZIF-8 samples varied based on the synthesis parameters, measuring approximately 99.46 nm, 101.9 nm, and 105.7 nm. To develop a ZIF-8-based air filter for CO2 capture, the ZIF-8 crystals were incorporated into a filter medium. The resulting ZIF-8-based air filter demonstrated significant improvements in CO2 loading compared to the standard MEA (monoethanolamine) reference. The calculated percentage increase in CO2 loading was approximately 41% for ZIF-8 (ZS3) and 22% for ZCAF (ZCAF3) samples respectively, relative to the MEA reference.
Effect of Biofilm Formation on the Color Properties of CAD/CAM Materials
Authors: Topçu Sümeyra , Özcelik Eda Yazıcı , Kopuz Dilan , Kolaylı Fetiye , Tekçe Neslihan , Demirci Mustafa , Tuncer Safa
Published: August 2023

ObjectivesTo investigate the effect of biofilm formation on the coloration properties of CAD/CAM materials.Materials and Methods106 samples of 2-mm thickness were prepared from two different CAD/CAM materials (IPS e.max CAD; Cerasmart) and a total of 53 samples were prepared from extracted caries-free human-teeth. Five samples from each sample group were used to measure the amount of alive biomass in the biofilm. The remaining 48 samples in each group were divided into four subgroups: group-1, kept in water without the formation of dental biofilm; group-2, kept in tea without the formation of dental biofilm; group-3, kept in water after the formation of dental biofilm; group-4: kept in tea after the formation of dental biofilm (n=12). After finishing and polishing, color and surface roughness measurements were made. After baseline measurements, a biofilm layer was formed in groups-3 and 4, and the measurements were repeated. Afterward, all samples were brushed, and a third measurement was performed. Data were statistically analyzed (p<0.05).ResultsThe lowest roughness value was observed in Cerasmart. Tooth-IPS e.max CAD gave similar results. The Cerasmart material had the most viable biomass, whereas the IPS e.max CAD material had the least. Group-4 had the highest ΔE1 value for all materials and group-1 had the lowest. The presence of biofilm on CAD/CAM materials immersed in water caused an unacceptable degree of coloration (ΔE>1.8), and immersion in tea caused much more color change.ConclusionsThe brushing process allowed CAD/CAM materials to return to their original color.Clinical RelevanceThe adhesion of biofilm to restorative dental materials plays an important role in the coloring of dental treatment.
Anthropogenic Influence and Climate Change: Water and Nutrient Dynamics in the Kebir- Rhumel Basin, (Northeastern Algeria)
Authors: Bouchareb Noureddine , Bousbia Sabri , Lefilef Abdelhak , Akboudj Alaeddine , Chardib Marwa , Bouguenna Rawiya
Published: August 2023

This study investigates Anthropogenic Influence and Climate Change: Water and Nutrient Dynamics in the Kebir-Rhumel Basin in Northeastern Algeria. Integrating 10 physicochemical variables, a PCA analysis highlights two distinct factors accounting for 80.90% of the total variance and identifies a strong positive correlation between various variables, particularly NH4 and PO4. Two contrasting river areas were noted: Oued Radjas and Oued Rhumel rivers, displaying evidence of anthropogenic activities, and Oued Kebir and Oued El-Kotone rivers, indicative of pristine conditions. Seasonal fluctuations were noted in atmospheric temperature, precipitation, humidity, and wind speed, as well as in physical parameters and nutrient concentrations of surface water, suggesting the potential impact of human activities on water quality and ecosystem health. High EC and TDS values in the Oued Radjas River point to anthropogenic pollution, and high nitrogen nutrient concentrations in the Oued El-Kotonne River hint at potential eutrophication. The study underscores the importance of understanding the interplay between human activities and natural processes in managing water resources and ecosystems. Further research is needed to identify specific human contributors to water quality degradation and nutrient imbalances and to explore mitigation measures for sustainable development.
Exploring the use of nanofluids in pump-free systems for solar thermal applications
Authors: Kosinska Anna , Balakin Boris V. , Kosinski Pawel
Published: August 2023

By using nanofluids as a working fluid in pump-free designs, thermal energy systems can become more efficient and have reduced maintenance costs, ultimately extending the system’s lifespan. In this paper, our goal is to investigate unsteady phenomena in the irradiation process and highlight their significance. To accomplish this, we conducted a series of experiments using a square loop of glass pipes filled with carbon black nanofluids and irradiated with a halo-gen lamp to simulate solar irradiation. The resulting convective motion of the nanofluids allowed us to observe the performance of different concentrations of carbon black, with 0.005-0.01 wt.% proving to be the most effective. Additionally , we identified unsteady processes that occur at the beginning of the process or when the irradiation changes. Finally, we employed computational fluid dynamics simulations to gain further insight into these phenomena.
A Hybrid Multi-objective Optimization Approach for Warehouses Location Problem
Authors: Mankour Ikram , Yachba Khadidja
Published: August 2023

Many recent studies show that supply chain design positively impacts logistics performance and cost. Companies today are forced to make many types of decisions to ensure their medium- and long-term survival. Many issues are raised by this practice, such as the optimization of the supply chain. Our work is mainly focused on the research of distribution of products to customers. This network is made up of customers and warehouses. We suggest in this study a new method for selecting potential warehouses based on the particle swarm algorithm, which is a metaheuristic method. The proposed method, HWS-MOPSO (Hybrid Warehouse Selection Multi-Objective Particle Swarm Optimization), is a hybrid method based on two essential methods. The first step is to gather nearby customers using an unsupervised learning method. The second step is choosing the best warehouse location. This method makes it easier to perform three objectives. Finally, the analysis of its performance is carried out in a set of customers and warehouses. The test results demonstrate that the suggested method is effective and can select several warehouses (variables) and maintain the best cost, distance, and delay.
Plasma and Urinary Metabolomic Analysis of Gout and Asymptomatic Hyperuricemia and Profiling of Potential Biomarkers: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ohashi Yuki , Oyama Hiroshi , Makinoshima Hideki , Takada Tappei , Matsuo Hirotaka , Ichida Kimiyoshi
Published: August 2023

Gout results from monosodium urate deposition caused by hyperuricemia, but most individuals with hyperuricemia remain asymptomatic. The pathogenesis of gout remains uncertain. To identify potential biomarkers distinguishing gout from asymptomatic hyperuricemia, we conducted genetic analysis of urate transporters and metabolomic analysis as a proof-of-concept study including 33 patients with gout and 9 individuals with asymptomatic hyperuricemia. The variant allele frequencies of rs72552713, rs2231142, and rs3733591, which are related to serum urate levels (SUA) and gout, did not differ between the gout and asymptomatic hyperuricemia groups. In metabolomic analysis, the levels of citrate cycle intermediates, especially 2-ketoglutarate, were higher in patients with gout than in those with asymptomatic hyperuricemia (fold difference = 1.415, p = 0.039). The impact on the tricarboxylate (TCA) cycle was further emphasized in high-risk gout (SUA ≥ 9.0 mg/dL). Of note, urinary nicotinate was the most prominent biomarker differentiating high-risk gout from asymptomatic hyperuricemia (fold difference = 6.515, p = 0.020). Although urate transporters play critical roles in SUA elevation and promote hyperuricemia, this study suggests that the progression from asymptomatic hyperuricemia to gout might be closely related to other genetic and/or environmental factors affecting carbohydrate metabolism and urinary urate excretion.
Micro-CT-based HTPB propellant double-axis stretch test design
Authors: Chen Tiezhu , Qiang Hongfu , Wang Xueren , Wang Zhejun , Wang Jiaxiang , Li Shiqi , Yuan Bin
Published: August 2023

In order to study the microstructural damage evolution of solid propellants under biaxial tension, firstly, based on finite element numerical calculation, small specimens of HTPB propellant that can simultaneously meet the requirements of biaxial deformation characteristics were designed, and stress cloud maps of deformation were obtained for three different configurations of HTPB propellant small specimens under typical tensile ratios. Then, based on the 1172 Micro-CT and its corresponding biaxial tensile fixture, biaxial tensile microtests were conducted to verify the confirmed configuration of small specimens. The results show that under the same loading displacement conditions, the stress distribution in the central test area of the three configurations of small HTPB propellant specimens is relatively uniform. The average stress value, plane stress dispersion, and overall stress stability coefficient of the central test area are calculated, and the optimal configuration of the small specimen with a thinning radius of R = 2 mm in the center circle is analyzed and compared. The central test area shows a more significant biaxial tensile state; the damage evolution process of the microstructure of small specimens was obtained through biaxial tensile tests, and the changes in force and porosity of small specimens with loading displacement were obtained. Finally, by analyzing the experimental results, the design requirements for small specimens of HTPB propellant under biaxial tension were met, and the rationality and effectiveness of the small specimen configuration were verified.
Heart Disease Prediction System Using Machine Learning Algorithms (KNN and Decision Tree Algorithm)
Authors: lone zainab Fayaz Fayaz ahmad , Hod saurabh
Published: August 2023

Heart disease is a critical issue in the field of medical science, and accurate prediction plays a crucial role in improving patient outcomes. In recent years, machine learning algorithms have emerged as powerful tools for predicting disease. This thesis aims to produce and compare two popular machine learning algorithms K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) and Decision Tree for Heart. Heart disease prediction
Is the biotic potential, expressed as life-history features and nutritional indices, of generalized herbivore insects a function of host plants? — Spodoptera littoralis as a case study
Authors: El-Refaie Rasha M. , Shaurub El-Sayed H. , Abd-Allah Ghada E. , Ebeid Ahmed A. , Abouelnaga Zeinab S.
Published: August 2023

The present study aimed at evaluating the impacts of castor bean, tomato, potato, and cucumber leaves on the various components of biological fitness and food consumption and utilization of S. littoralis. The levels of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorous in the tested host plants were quantified. Feeding larvae on the tested host plants did not affect larval or pupal duration. Whereas, weight of full-grown larvae, adult emergence, and egg-hatch were significantly affected, with the highest and lowest values in case of feeding on castor bean and cucumber leaves, respectively. The highest and lowest number of eggs deposited per female were attained on castor bean and tomato leaves, respectively. Adult male and female longevity was the highest on potato and on castor bean leaves, respectively. Nutritional indices were dependent on the host plant, metamorphed instar, and age within instar, with the most profound change in case of 6th -instar larvae (last instar). Castor bean was the most nutritive host plant as it contained the highest levels of nitrogen and potassium. In contrast, tomato was the least nutritive one as it contained the lowest concentrations of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. It appears that castor bean was the most suitable host plant, whereas tomato was the least suitable one. The findings obtained herein may help in understanding the biology of S. littoralis, leading to a better strategy to its control. Future studies should focus on testing a wider range of host plant species.