bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Thermal Dynamics of Thulium Super-Pulsed Lasers in Lithotripsy Procedures
Authors: Hu Zhongjie , hilowle abdihamid hassan , Shen Chen , Wang Wei , Wang Xiaogang , Li Xiancheng
Published: April 2024

Purpose Optimizing lithotripsy protocols for clinical practice by studying the thermal effects of laser technologies across different parameters and perfusion rates.
Methods This study highlights Thulium Super-Pulsed Lasers from Lakh Medical Equipment (Beijing) Co., Ltd. Both operate at 1940nm peak wavelength and 500W power output. An in vitro model used detached pig kidney ureters in a constant-temperature water bath 37°C. A disposable ureteroscope with domestically produced pulsed thulium fiber laser stimulated the ex vivo simulated ureteral model. Laser parameters included 15ml/min, 25ml/min, and 35ml/min perfusion rates with physiological saline at 25℃±1℃. Artificial stones were inserted using ureteroscopy.
Results At 15 ml/min infusion rate and 6W stone fragmentation power, ureter temperature rises positively with excitation time, reaching 37.4°C within 30 seconds. Increasing to 12W, the thulium laser surpassed 43.4°C within 30 seconds. At 18W, consistent temperature elevation regardless of mode, reaching 43°C in 5 seconds at >400Hz. For 6W, 12W, and 18W, excitation time remains under 30 seconds, ensuring ureter stays <43°C. Except for specific parameters, ureteral temperature exceeds the safety threshold at 24W and 30W. At 35 ml/min infusion rate and 30W, intrapelvic temperature remains safe within 30 seconds except for one mode.
Conclusion This investigation demonstrates that Thulium laser therapy can safely raise ureter temperature within controlled limits, aiding urological disease treatment. Urologists gain a scientific footing for laser parameter selection. Thulium laser's power, energy, frequency, and pulse width dictate temperature changes, demanding careful consideration for effective treatment planning.
Health Professionals Commitment and its Associated Factors in Public Health Facilities of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2024 Multi Center Mixed Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Godie Yohannes , Gebretsadkan Laeke , Shewangizaw Zewdu , Assefa Teklu , Birhanu Dires , Kassaye Fikirte , Guadie Yitayal , Abatneh Eyasu
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND: Health professional commitment is an important factor in employee performance. It has a positive impact on an organization’s ability to provide professional services. Health professionals must have a committed health workforce if they are to achieve their goals effectively and efficiently, or even to survive. This study will close a research gap by examining the critical factors influencing the commitment of health professionals as well as the severity of these problems in public health facilities in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
OBJECTIVE: To assess health professional’s commitment and its associated factors at public health facility in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2024.
METHODS: A mixed facility-based, cross-sectional study design was conducted. A total of 535 health professionals were selected by simple random sampling. Data was collected by five data collectors and two supervisors using a pretested questionnaire. Pretests should be done at Nifassilk Woreda 02 HC, Nifas Silk Woreda 12, and Tirunesh Beijing Hospital. Data were collected through an in-depth interview (n = 18). Data was checked for completeness, cleaned, and entered into Epi-Data version 4.2, then exported into SPSS version 26 for analysis. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used, and variables with a P value less than p ≤0.25 were included in multivariable logistic regression. The adjusted odd ratio along with the 95% CI was calculated to see the strength of the association, and P<0.05 was taken as the level of statistical significance.
RESULTS: A total of 535 respondents were involved, with a response rate of 530 (99.1%). The magnitude of health professionals’ commitment was 70.8% (95% CI: 66.9, 75.0). Being female (AOR: 4.99, CI: 3.01-8.31, P=0.000), BSc degree holders (AOR: 3.55, CI: 1.47-8.58, P=0.005), health professionals working in health centers (AOR: 2.02, CI: 1.15-3.57, P=0.015), professional training (AOR: 2.84, CI: 1.39-5.79, P=0.004), and good working environments (AOR: 1.72, CI: 1.11-2.66, P=0.016) were factors associated with health professionals’ commitment.
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION: health professional’s commitment is crucial for ensuring quality patient care and maintaining the integrity of the healthcare system. Provide comprehensive training and continuing education opportunities for health professionals to keep them updated with the latest medical knowledge, skills, and best practices.
Vitamin D nutritional status and dietary calcium intake of children and adolescents in Zhejiang Province, China
Authors: Zou Yan , Huang Li-chun , Zhao Dong , He Meng-jie , Han Dan , Su Danting , Xu Peiwei , Zhang Ronghua
Published: April 2024

Background
Low 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-(OH)D) serum levels, and a nutritional calcium deficit are widely encountered in China. However, few studies have determined the the calcium dietary intake and the corresponding food sources, and few studies have investigated investigated the influencing factors of serum 25-(OH)D.
Objective
This study was conducted to explore the vitamin D and calcium nutritional status among children and adolescents.
Methods
This study included children and adolescents aged 6–17 years who participated in provincial nutrition surveillance, which was including 90 counties (cities and districts) in Zhejiang Province with provincial representative. Food consumption was assessed using three consecutive days of 24-h dietary recall, and nutrient intake were calculated using dietary recall in conjunction with the China Food Composition Table. Blood sample were collected to detect the concentration of 25-hydroxyvitamin D by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay.
Results
The analysis included a total of 1827 children and adolescents. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in 6–8, 9–11, 12–14 and 15–17 age groups were 2.3%, 4.75%, 8.33% and 16.98% respectively. The prevalence of vitamin D inadequacy in 6–8, 9–11, 12–14 and 15–17 age groups were 24.33%, 34.50%, 45.5% and 43.24% respectively. The medians of dietary calcium intake in 6–8, 9–11, 12–14 and 15–17 age groups were 336.5, 359.4, 323.4 and 320.47 milligrams per day (mg/d), respectively. The main food sources of dietary calcium were dairy and vegetables. The Spearman's rho of dietary calcium and dairy in 6–8, 9–11, 12–14 and 15–17 age groups were 0.627, 0.660, 0.637, and 0.479, respectively(P < 0.001) and the Spearman's rho of dietary calcium and vegetables in 6–8, 9–11, 12–14 and 15–17 age groups were 0.424, 0.410, 0.447, and 0.440, respectively(P < 0.001). The concentration of serum 25-(OH)D were correlated with sleep time of study days in 6–8 and 9–11 age groups (Spearman’s rho = 0.09, 0.095, p < 0.05). The dietary calcium intake of children and adolescents of 15–17 age groups were positively related to outdoor activities (Spearman’s rho = 0.207, p < 0.05). Dairy intake were negatively related to the sleep time of rest days and outdoor activity time among children and adolescents of 9–11 age group (Spearman’s rho=-0.219, -0.199, p < 0.05).
Conclusions
There was a high prevalence of inadequacy and deficiency of vitamin D in children and adolescents and their dietary calcium intake were severely insufficient. Dairy are the most effective food sources for improving dietary calcium intake. Nutrition education to increase dairy products intake should be conducted and more opportunities should be provided children and adolescents to receive sunlight exposure to improve the vitamin D nutritional status.
Brain Drain Optimization (BRADO) Algorithm to Solve Multi-Objective Expert Team Formation Problem in Social Networks
Authors: Basiri Alireza , Masehian Ellips , Taghiyareh Fattaneh , Hosseini Peyman
Published: April 2024

Team performance and the composition of the members determine the success of a project. The multi-objective expert team formation problem seeks to identify a collaborative and affordable team of experts such that the hiring costs are minimized and mutual communication is maximized given a network of experts and an essential set of skills. A new swarm-based metaheuristic, called BRADO, has been utilized to address this NP-hard problem. The BRADO algorithm emulates the emigration phenomenon of intellectual elites of society. This problem has been solved by considering two different approaches, the Sigma, and the Multiplication methods, for integrating the affordability and collaboration objective functions. The problem has been solved for projects of varying scales by the proposed BRADO, Multi-objective PSO, NSGA-II, and Multi-objective ICA. Our experiments show that BRADO provides more efficient solutions to the multi-objective expert team formation problem than the other algorithms, especially for projects with more required skills.
Taming Toxic Talk: Detecting Offensive Online Content in Hausa
Authors: Adam Fatima Muhammad , Zandam Abubakar Yakubu , Inuwa-Dutse Isa
Published: April 2024

Hausa, a major Chadic language spoken by over 100 million people in Africa, faces a challenge in the digital age. While widely used, it is considered a low-resource language from a computational linguistic perspective. This means there are limited resources and tools to analyse Hausa text, making it difficult to detect offensive and threatening language online. Our study aimed to bridge this gap. We conducted two user studies ($n=180$) to understand cyberbullying in Hausa. We then created the first-ever dataset of offensive and threatening Hausa phrases to train detection systems. We developed a system to flag such content and compared it to Google translation's ability to detect these terms. Our findings revealed a concerning trend: offensive and threatening language is prevalent online, especially in discussions about religion and politics. Our detection system was able to detect more than 70\% of offensive and threatening content, although many of these were mistranslated by Google's translation engine. We attribute this to the subtle relationship between offensive and threatening content and idiomatic expressions in the Hausa language. This highlights the importance of considering cultural nuances and idiomatic expressions in Hausa. To create a safer online environment for Hausa speakers, we recommend involving diverse stakeholders who understand local contexts and demographics. This will allow for the development of more accurate detection systems and targeted moderation strategies.
Trigger Warning: Readers may find some of the terms in this study distressing or disturbing; all examples are for illustration only.
Improving Social Media Popularity Prediction with Content-aware Post Dependencies
Authors: Zhang Zhizhen , Xie Xiaohui , Yang Mengyu , Tian Ye , Zhang Lanshan , Jiang Yong
Published: April 2024

Numerous social media posts exhibit inherent qualities that determine their popularity even before being published. Consequently, comprehending the patterns of post popularity and forecasting them before publication holds significant practical value. Existing work mainly utilizes information from individual posts to make predictions, ignoring the popularity correlation between different posts. By analyzing the dataset, we find that there is an important relationship between the content and popularity of different posts published in a short period. To address this challenge, we introduce Content-aware Post Dependency Networks (CPDN) that utilize information from content-related posts to improve the popularity prediction of target posts. CPDN employs multimodal feature adapters to create task-specific representations for target posts. Utilizing hierarchical category information, it captures nuanced correlations between posts. The model incorporates recurrent networks with gating layers and attention mechanisms to aggregate posts with correlated content for better prediction of target posts. The experimental results on Social Media Popularity Dataset under two different settings demonstrate the superiority of our method over the state-of-the-art methods. We release our code in \href{https://github.com/Daisy-zzz/CPDN.git}{Daisy-zzz/CPDN} for reproducibility.
Assessment of the phenotypic diversity and agronomic performance of a Mediterranean lentil collection under rainfed conditions: towards efficient use in breeding programs for adaptation to Mediterranean-type environment
Authors: Zeroual Abdelmonim , Mitache Mohammed , Baidani Aziz , Abderemane Bacar Abdallah , Benbrahim Nadia , Ouhemi Hanane , Çakır Esra , Hoyos-Villegas Valerio , Gadaleta Agata , Mazzucotelli Elisabetta , Özkan Hakan , Idrissi Omar
Published: April 2024

The improvement of lentil productivity and resilience to climate change requires the deployment of breeding approaches and sustainable agronomic practices. Germplasm from the Mediterranean region could be an important source of useful traits for lentil breeding programs. Additionally, no-tillage could also contribute to maintaining lentil productivity in drought-prone environments. However, there are few studies on breeding for adaptation to no-tillage in lentil, as this practice can create growing conditions that differ from those under conventional tillage. The objectives of this study were to assess the genetic variability of a lentil collection in different environments, and to evaluate the significance of genotype by tillage system effect on grain yield and other agronomic traits. A Mediterranean lentil collection of 119 accessions was evaluated in Morocco (under no-till and conventional tillage) and in Turkey (during two growing seasons) under rainfed conditions. Moroccan landraces were the earliest to flower compared to landraces from Italy, Turkey, and Greece; however, advanced breeding lines flowered earlier than landraces. Turkish and Greek landraces displayed the highest mean values of plant height and hundred-seed weight, respectively. Advanced lines yielded more than landraces in all trials except in low-yielding environment (Adana in 2022 season) in which higher yield was recorded in Turkish landraces, followed by Moroccan landraces. The accessions identified in different environments could be used as donors in breeding programs. The effect of genotype × tillage interaction on grain yield was not significant, highlighting that the implementation of separate breeding programs for each tillage system may not be efficient.
Habitat associated with ramps/wild leeks (Allium tricoccum Ait.) in Pennsylvania, U.S.A: guidance for forest farming site selection
Authors: Houston Ezra , Burkhart Eric P. , Stark Cassie , Chen Xin , Nilson Sarah
Published: April 2024

Ramps or wild leeks (Allium tricoccum) are a popular foraged non-timber forest product consumed for their edible bulbs and leaves. The agroforestry practice of forest farming is a possible solution to conservation challenges surrounding wild exploitation of this species but requires proper site selection to be successful. In this study, Maximum entropy (Maxent) modeling using 162 occurrence points and field data collected at 30 wild populations were combined to determine characteristics of ramp habitat in Pennsylvania. Maxent modeling highlighted lower slope positions as the most important characteristic of suitable habitat. Moist floodplains and north and east facing lower slopes were the most frequent conditions encountered in field plots, confirming model results. Soils were high in calcium and slightly acidic. Forest types included “Central Appalachian Rich Cove,” “Sugar maple-Mixed Hardwood Floodplain,” “Tuliptree-Beech-Maple,” and “Sugar maple-Basswood”. Sites shared 50% of floristic associates on average, with 252 species documented in total. Sugar maple (Acer saccharum) was the most important overstory species, and an indicator on northern aspects. Forest types differed by region, as represented by indicator species: sugar maple and black cherry (Prunus serotina) in northern PA, and tulip-poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera) and beech (Fagus grandifolia) in the south. Non-native multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora) and Japanese barberry (Berberis thunbergii) were more common than native shrubs, providing little indicator value due to their broad habitat requirements. Blue cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides) and yellow trout lily (Erythronium americanum) were the most common understory associates, serving as potential indicators of moist, base rich sites suitable for planting ramps.
A Comprehensive Mathematical Model and User-Friendly Calculator for Assessing Residential Carbon Footprints
Authors: Garg Deepika , Dhiman Mehak
Published: April 2024

Climate change poses a significant threat, driven largely by greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxide (CO2). Residential areas are major contributors to these emissions, making it imperative to quantify and mitigate their environmental impact. This paper presents a mathematical model and associated carbon footprint calculator for assessing carbon footprints within residential areas. The calculator incorporates a multifaceted approach, accounting for household energy consumption, food-related emissions, and transportation choices. The model relies on established emission factors to translate various activities into quantifiable CO2 emissions. It aims to provide a comprehensive and user-friendly tool to inform individuals and policymakers about the carbon footprint associated with residential living. By empowering informed decision-making, the model and its accompanying calculator have the potential to promote sustainable practices and guide mitigation strategies within residential communities.
Increasing trends of antibiotic resistance in Uganda: analysis of the national antimicrobial resistance surveillance data, 2018–2021
Authors: Kizito Saudah Namubiru , Migisha Richard , Okello Paul Edward , Simbwa Brenda , Kabami Zainah , Agaba Brian , Zalwango Jane Frances , Naiga Hellen Nelly , Zalwango Marie Gorreti , Wanyana Mercy Wendy , Monje Fred , King Patrick , Kawungezi Peter Chris , Kiggundu Thomas , Ninsiima Mackline , Akunzirwe Rebecca , Namusosa Rita , Mugerwa Ibrahim , Atuhaire Winnie , Achola Caroline , Najjuka Grace , Bulage Lilian , Kwesiga Benon , Kadobera Daniel , Ario Alex Riolexus , Nabadda Susan
Published: April 2024

Background: Continuous monitoring of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Uganda involves testing bacterial isolates from clinical samples at national and regional hospitals. Although the National Microbiology Reference Laboratory (NMRL) analyzes these isolates for official AMR surveillance data, there's limited integration into public health planning. To enhance the utilization of NMRL data to better inform drug selection and public health strategies in combating antibiotic resistance, we evaluated the trends and spatial distribution of AMR to common antibiotics used in Uganda.
Methods: We analyzed data from pathogenic bacterial isolates from blood, cerebrospinal, peritoneal, and pleural fluid from AMR surveillance data for 2018–2021. We calculated the proportions of isolates that were resistant to common antimicrobial classes. We used the chi-square test for trends to evaluate changes in AMR resistance over the study period.
Results: Out of 537 isolates with 15 pathogenic bacteria, 478 (89%) were from blood, 34 (6.3%) were from pleural fluid, 21 (4%) were from cerebrospinal fluid, and 4 (0.7%) were from peritoneal fluid. The most common pathogen was Staphylococcus aureus (20.1%), followed by Salmonella species (18.8%). The overall change in resistance over the four years was 63–84% for sulfonamides, fluoroquinolones macrolides (46–76%), phenicols (48–71%), penicillins (42–97%), β-lactamase inhibitors (20–92%), aminoglycosides (17–53%), cephalosporins (8.3–90%), carbapenems (5.3–26%), and glycopeptides (0–20%). Annual resistance rates to ciprofloxacin increased from 2018-2021 for gram-positive organisms (26–45% p=0.02). Among gram-negative organisms, there were increases in resistance to tetracycline (29-78% p<0.001), ciprofloxacin (17-43%, p=0.004), ceftriaxone (8–72%, p=0.003), imipenem (6-26%, p=0.004), and meropenem (7-18, p=0.03).
Conclusion: The study highlights a concerning increase in antibiotic resistance rates over four years, with significant increase in resistance observed across different classes of antibiotics for both gram-positive and gram-negative organisms. This increased antibiotic resistance, particularly to commonly used antibiotics like ceftriaxone and ciprofloxacin, makes adhering to the WHO's Access, Watch, and Reserve (AWaRe) category even more critical. It also emphasizes how important it is to guard against the growing threat of antibiotic resistance by appropriately using medicines, especially those that are marked for "Watch" or "Reserve."
Influence of ethylene sulfite in lithium bis(trifluoromethane)sulfonimide-based electrolyte of dual carbon battery
Authors: Yan Z. , Osman Z. , Kufian M.Z
Published: April 2024

Dual carbon batteries (DCB) are gaining traction in energy storage research due to their cost-effectiveness, better safety, eco-friendliness, and rapid charging capability. Despite these merits, carbon-based electrode systems face many challenges, particularly in their relatively lower energy density. Researchers are addressing this by exploring innovative strategies, with a focus on electrolyte additives. One noteworthy additive is ethylene sulfite (ES), recognized for its protective effect on electrodes. This study compares two LiTFSI-based electrolytes, one of which is enhanced with ES, to determine their potential in improving DCB capabilities. The LiTFSI-ES electrolyte demonstrates a higher conductivity (7.29×10-3 S cm-1) and a broader potential window (5.554 V) compared to LiTFSI alone. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and dQ/dV analysis confirm the intercalation of TFSI-anions in the graphite electrode, indicating DCB behavior. This research contributes valuable insights into enhancing DCB performance through the incorporation of ES and sheds light on the electrochemical behavior of the LiTFSI-ES electrolyte.
Understanding the impacts of intensity and harvest frequency on Tithonia diversifolia for use in tropical silvopastoral systems
Authors: Ovani Vagner , Pérez-Márquez Simón , Monteiro Alyce , Kruger Ana Maria , Lima Paulo de Mello Tavares , Bizzuti Beatriz Elisa , Takahashi Lumena Souza , Louvandini Helder , Abdalla Adibe Luiz
Published: April 2024

Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray has significant potential as a forage source in silvopastoral systems, particularly in tropical conditions. However, its intensity and frequency management differ from those commonly applied to grasses. This study aims to evaluate T. diversifolia under two harvest intensities (30 and 40 cm stubble height) and four harvest frequencies (21, 28, 35, and 42 days), aligning with Brazil’s traditional tropical grass management practices. Biomass production and nutritive value of forage, as well as in vitro rumen fermentation parameters were assessed. We observed that the tested harvest intensities have a limited impact on the biomass production and nutritional value of T. diversifolia. Despite the linear increase in biomass production, lower harvest frequencies (i.e., longer regrowth period) significantly affects nutritional value, impacting the products of ruminal fermentation, as indicated by the in vitro assay. The methane production per gram of degraded organic matter (OM) and the OM allocated for microbial biomass production are affected by the harvest frequencies. Additionally, we observed that rainfall and canopy height have stronger correlation with biomass production than harvest frequencies controlled by days. We conclude that T. diversifolia is minimally affected by harvest intensities and, for Brazilian edaphoclimatic conditions, it can be harvested with higher frequencies than those suggested for other regions.
Structure Optimization for Downlead Cable of 110 kV Insulated Optical-Unit Phase Conductor
Authors: Liu Xinzhan , Mei Xiaobin , Luo Yuping , Lin Yang , Lin Shenghong , Yang Ling , Guo Deming , Liu Gang
Published: April 2024

Currently, the structure of insulated optical-unit phase conductor (IOPPC) is gradually being employed in 10 kV and 110 kV power transmission lines, replacing the existing Optical Fiber Composition Phase Conductor (OPPC) structures. However, incidents of lines breakage have occurred in the widespread application of IOPPC downlead cables in 110 kV lines. Addressing these breakage incidents, this paper proposes a modified structure for the IOPPC downlead cable. Initially, finite element method is employed to calculate the electric field intensity of both the traditional and modified IOPPC downlead cable structures under a 110 kV voltage, providing preliminary validation of the effectiveness of the proposed modification. Subsequently, power frequency withstand tests are conducted to further validate and optimize the modified structure. Simulation results indicate that the electric field strength is notably higher in the air region near the parallel groove clamp of the traditional structure. The addition of a semiconductor shielding layer in the modified structure effectively suppresses the increase in electric field strength. Power frequency withstand test results further confirm the inhibitory effect of the semiconductor shielding layer on electric field intensity. However, experimental observations reveal occurrences of discharge at the cutoff point of the semiconductor shielding layer. Finally, optimization of the modified structure successfully eliminates the occurrence of discharge at the cutoff point of the semiconductor shielding layer. The final chapter showed the withstand voltage test specified by IEC standard for the IOPPC downlead cable with the structure of the hollow aluminum ball wrapping, confirming the effectiveness of the modified design.
Effectiveness and safety of Qishe™ for treating postoperative symptoms after surgery for cervical spondylotic myelopathy: A prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial
Authors: zhang shuming , Zhou Xiaoning , Ye jie , xu jinhai , Mo wen
Published: April 2024

Objectives: With the increasing incidence and surgical management of cervical spondylotic myelopathy, residual postoperative pain and numbness have become challenging problems. Investigation into reducing postoperative symptoms and improving the quality of life of patients who have undergone surgery for cervical spondylotic myelopathy is urgently required. Qishe™ is a traditional Chinese compound herbal medicine, clinical trials have shown that it reduces limb numbness and pain in patients with cervical spondylosis. We conducted a prospective, randomized, controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Qishe in improving postoperative symptoms after surgery for cervical spondylotic myelopathy.
Methods: We have recruited 72 patients who underwent anterior cervical decompression and fusion in Longhua and Long March Hospitals from December 2019 to August 2020. The study patients were randomly divided into treatment (36 cases) and control groups (36). The treatment group received Qishe and the control group mecobalamin. Trained researchers evaluated the patients at the time of enrollment, and 2, 4, 6 months after surgery. The outcomes included Japanese Orthopaedic Association scores, visual analogue scale, Neck Disability Index, 10-s grip and release test. Adverse reactions and postoperative complications were recorded.
Results: A total of 71 subjects were analyzed (36 subjects in the Qishe group, 35 subjects in the control group). We found that Qishe improved postoperative limb sensation and motor function and reduced severity of pain and cervical dysfunction index scores. Its clinical efficacy was not inferior to that of mecobalamin (P=0.437). There were no serious adverse events in either group.
Conclusion:Qishe is an effective and safe treatment for postoperative symptoms in patients who have undergone surgery for cervical spondylotic myelopathy.
Potential Roles of Cigarette Smoking on Gut Microbiota Profile among Chinese Men
Authors: Fan Jiayao , Zeng Fangfang , Zhong Haili , Cai Jun , Shen Wentao , Cheng Chunxiao , He Chunfeng , Liu Yuanjiao , Zhou Yuan , Chen Shujie , Zhu Yimin , Liu Tao , Zheng Ju-Sheng , Wang Lan , Chen Yu-Ming , Ma Wenjun , Zhou Dan
Published: April 2024

Cigarette smoking is posited as a potential factor in disrupting the balance of the human gut microbiota. However, existing studies with limited sample size have yielded inconclusive results. Here, we assessed the association between cigarette smoking and gut microbial profile among Chinese males from four independent studies (N total = 3,308). Both 16S rRNA and shotgun metagenomic sequencing methods were employed, covering 206 genera and 237 species. Microbial diversity was compared among non-smokers, current smokers, and former smokers. Actinomyces[g], Atopobium[g], Haemophilus[g], Turicibacter[g], and Lachnospira[g] were found to be associated with smoking status (current smokers v.s. non-smokers). Metagenomic data provided a higher resolution at the species level, particularly for the Actinomyces[g] branch. Additionally, serum Trans-3-Hydroxycotinine was found to have a potential role in connecting smoking and Actinomyces[g]. Furthermore, we revealed putative mediation roles of gut microbiome in the associations between smoking and common diseases including cholecystitis and type 2 diabetes. In conclusion, we characterized the gut microbiota profile in male smokers and further revealed their potential involvement in mediating the impact of smoking on health outcomes. These findings advance our understanding of the intricate associations between cigarette smoking and the gut microbiome.
Research on Feedforward Ventilation in High-altitude Tunnels Based on ARIMA Model
Authors: SUN San-Xiang , ZHENG Xu-Ting , CAO Qing-Jie
Published: April 2024

This research aims to address the challenges of tunnel ventilation in high-altitude areas by proposing a novel feedforward ventilation strategy based on the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model. By predicting ventilation needs and integrating real-time air quality monitoring, it optimizes air flow and quality within the tunnel, making it particularly suitable for the low oxygen, extreme climates, and complex geological conditions prevalent in high-altitude areas. The research methods include the construction and adjustment of the ARIMA model, optimizing the operation of the ventilation system through preprocessing of environmental parameter data and time series forecasting. Integrating a smart sensor network, the study achieves high accuracy in data input, thereby enhancing prediction accuracy. The results demonstrate that compared to traditional ventilation methods, this strategy significantly improves ventilation efficiency and reduces energy consumption. Overall, this research offers a new perspective on optimizing ventilation strategies for high-altitude internal combustion traction tunnels and showcases the immense potential of the ARIMA model in practical engineering applications. Through precise prediction of ventilation needs combined with real-time monitoring, the study significantly improves air quality within the tunnel, reduces energy consumption, and enhances the overall performance of the ventilation system.
Lymphopenia association with whole-brain radiotherapy and its effects on clinical outcomes of patients with brain metastases
Authors: Wang Yue , Zeng Weiwei , Xie Wenyue , Zhao Wei , Chen Yonghong , Yang Guiping
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Radiotherapy has emerged as a primary treatment modality for brain metastases, and there is increasing awareness of its potential side effects, such as lymphopenia. Therefore, the objective of this study was to establish the association between WBRT and the development of lymphopenia in patients with brain metastases undergoing brain radiotherapy (RT), along with evaluating the corresponding clinical outcomes. Methods: The study included a total of 116 patients with brain metastases undergoing brain radiotherapy, and collected the absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) within 2 weeks before brain radiotherapy (pre-radiotherapy, pre-RT), as well as at 1 and 2 months after completing RT (post-RT). Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify associations between radiation modality and post-RT ALC. The relationships between post-RT ALC and overall survival were evaluated with Kaplan-Meier analysis and a multivariate Cox regression model. Results: At 1 month post-RT, the median ALC definitely decreased. At 2 months post-RT, the ALC gradually rose but not to the pre-RT ALC. The multivariate analysis identified WBRT and lower pre-RT ALC as independent risk factors associated with the decrease in post-RT ALC at 1 month. It also revealed more than 4 brain metastases, G3-4 lymphopenia at 1 month and lower post-RT ALC at 2 months exhibited significantly worse prognosis regardless of the radiation modality. However, there is indeed an independent correlation between radiation modality and the outcome of intracranial progression-free survival (PFS). Conclusions: To approach the feasibility and reasonableness of treatment, clinicians should carefully consider various factors to achieve long-term survival of patients.
Assessment of cardiovascular complications in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Bshara Sally , Alkhoubi Qamar , Hamood Taghreed
Published: April 2024

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has become a global health crisis characterized by chronic elevation of blood sugar levels (hyperglycaemia) and a range of metabolic disorders. One of the most significant complications of type 2 diabetes is a greatly increased risk of cardiovascular complications (CVD). These complications include coronary artery disease (CAD), peripheral arterial disease, and heart failure, which are the leading cause of death.
Due to the substantial burden on healthcare associated with cardiovascular diseases in type 2 diabetes, accurate and comprehensive assessment of cardiovascular risk factors is of paramount importance. This chapter will highlight cardiovascular complications in these patients, discussing risk factors, assessment mechanisms, and the importance of integrating medical history, physical examination, and appropriate diagnostic tools. Through critical evaluation of these assessment strategies, we aim to equip healthcare providers with the necessary knowledge to effectively identify and manage cardiovascular risks in high-risk patients.
Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted utilizing patient records and data. Inclusion criteria comprised patients diagnosed with T2DM with high risk of cardiovascular risk. Ethical approval was obtained from the institutional review board or ethics committee, ensuring patient confidentiality and data anonymization. Informed consent was not required due to the retrospective nature of the study. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.0, computing descriptive statistics including frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations.
Results: Among 101 diabetic cases, the average age of patients was 41 years with a standard deviation of 24, and more than half of the sample were females. Approximately one-fifth of the patients were smokers. The predominant type was type 2 diabetes, and most patients were in a state of ketoacidosis at diagnosis. Medical histories were present in more than one-third of the patients, while surgical histories were present in almost half. More than one-fifth of the patients suffered from systemic complications of diabetes. The prevalence of cardiovascular complications among patients was 30%, with hypertension being the most common among them. Most type 2 diabetic patients were uncontrolled.
Conclusion: To reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases in diabetic patients, assisting patients in adopting a healthy lifestyle by promoting physical activity, weight reduction, and cessation of alcohol consumption during follow-up is a crucial step. Additionally, we recommend a multifactorial intervention aimed at achieving recommended levels of critical indicators (blood pressure, blood cholesterol, microvascular complications, and early-stage treatment).
Clinical outcomes and microenvironment profiling of relapsed/refractory extramedullary disease of multiple myeloma patients with anti-BCMA CAR T cell-based therapy
Authors: Qi Yuekun , Li Hujun , Qi Kunming , Zheng Junnian , Xu Kailin , Cao Jiang
Published: April 2024

Relapsed/refractory (R/R) multiple myeloma (MM) patients with extramedullary disease (EMD) have grim prognoses and lack effective therapy. We conducted a comprehensive study of 31 R/R MM patients with histologically confirmed extra-osseous EMD receiving anti-B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) CAR T cell-based therapy. The safety/efficacy was assessed; immune microenvironment was analyzed based on multiplex immunofluorescence of pretherapy EMD biopsy samples. Overall response occurred in 90.3% of medullary disease and 64.5% of EMD. Discrepant outcomes between medullary and extramedullary response, with suboptimal and delayed response and shortened response duration in EMD were observed. The median progression-free survival and overall survival were 5.0 and 9.7 months, respectively. Unique CAR-associated local toxicities at EMD were seen in 22.6% patients. Compared with non-EMD patients, patients with EMD showed inferior survival outcomes. To the cutoff date, 65% patients experienced EMD progression post-treatment, and BCMA+ progression constituted the main progression pattern in EMD. The pretherapy EMD immunosuppressive microenvironment, characterized by infiltration of exhausted CD8+ T cells, was reported to associate with adverse clinical outcomes. We show that CAR T cells have favorable activity in EMD, but the long-term survival benefits may be limited; EMD-specific microenvironment potentially impacts treatment. Further efforts are needed to extend EMD remission and improve long-term outcomes.
The Effects of Job-Based and Organization-Based Psychological Ownership on Turnover Intention Among SME Workers: Focusing on the Mediating Role of Employee Engagement
Authors:   Human Engagement Institute, Jang SangAh , Jo Hyunjeong , Kim Woocheol
Published: April 2024

SMEs are Korea's economic growth engine and play a key role in creating jobs. Even though SMEs face a severe shortage of manpower. The high turnover rate in SMEs leads to work gaps and spreads turnover within the organization, which negatively affects the growth and performance of the organization. Therefore, further research is needed in this field. This study analyzed the structural relationships between organization-based psychological ownership (OBPO), job-based psychological ownership (JBPO), employee engagement (EE), and turnover intention (TI) derived from previous studies, focusing on SMEs workers, and found the following findings. First, both OBPO and EE were positively and statistically significant. Second, OBPO and TI were negatively correlated and were statistically significant. Third, both JBPO and EE were positively and statistically significant. Fourth, the negative correlation between the JBPO and TI was not statistically significant. Fifth, EE and TI were negatively correlated and were statistically significant. Sixth, EE had a statistically significant mediating effect on OBPO and TI. Seventh, EE had a statistically significant mediating effect on JBPO and TI. Based on the findings of this study, theoretical and practical implications are presented and suggestions are made for further research.
A Validation Study of Micromanagement Measurement
Authors:   Human Engagement Institute, Heo Jaeyoon , Lim Kyoungae , Lee Yunsoo
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this study is to validate the micromanagement measurement developed by Sulphey and Upadhyay (2019). We translated the micromanagement measurement for validation and conducted content validity analysis. The preliminary study has showed that the subfactor structure of the instrument items was verified. In the main study with 392 individuals from Korean employees. Our analysis included factor analysis, reliability analysis, and Rasch model. The results indicated that one item with a low factor loading was removed, leaving the measurement of 14 items in four factors. The study revealed a significant association between micromanagement and organizational silence, as well as passive aggression in Korean organizations. We discuss the expected interpretations, practical applications and theoretical implications. Based on the findings, theoretical and practical implications were further discussed.
The Effect of Supervisor’s Empowering Leadership on Office Worker’s Job Embeddedness: Focusing on the Mediating Roles of Affect-Based Trust and Job Crafting
Authors:   Human Engagement Institute, Hwang DooSeong , Park Jiwon
Published: April 2024

Retaining competent workers is critical since it impacts on continuity of work, recruitment and training costs, and other aspects of organizational effectiveness. This study aims to identify key factors that can prevent office workers from leaving their organization and job, and to complement the limitations of turnover research. Specifically, the study aims to explore the antecedents of job satisfaction, which can promote employee retention and prevent turnover, by analyzing the structural relationships among variables. The study surveyed 350 office workers with more than one year of tenure using an online questionnaire and analyzed the structural relationships among variables using structural equation modeling. The results showed that empowering leadership did not have a direct impact on job satisfaction, but had an indirect positive impact through psychological trust and voice. Psychological trust had a positive direct and indirect impact on job satisfaction and voice, while voice had the largest positive direct impact on job satisfaction. Additionally, both psychological trust and voice had a mediating effect between empowering leadership and job satisfaction, and their double mediation effect was also statistically significant. Based on these results, the study provides empirical evidence for the effectiveness of empowering leadership and suggests practical implications for both academic and organizational settings.
Identifying Latent Profiles in Career Plateau of Employees in the Science and Technology Using Latent Profile Analysis
Authors:   Human Engagement Institute, Lim Kyoungae , Lee Yunsoo
Published: April 2024

The present study aims to identify latent profiles based on career plateau among those working in the science and technology field using latent profile analysis. We also investigated the effect of predictors on the classification of the profiles and the differences between outcome variables among the profiles. We analyzed data from 2,059 employees from the 2022 Human Resources Development Survey in Science and Technology data collected by the Korea Institute of Human Resources Development in Science and Technology (KIRD). The result showed that five profiles were identified: average plateau, low plateau, promotion plateau, growth plateau, and career ceiling. As predictive variables, perceived career development support, informal learning, and social networking were significant, and there were significant differences in career satisfaction, organizational commitment, turnover intention, and work- life balance between the five profiles. Based on the findings, theoretical and practical implications were discussed.
Perbandingan Algoritma Winnowing dan Algoritma Rabin-Karp pada Aplikasi Pendeteksi Kesamaan Dokumen Skripsi
Authors: Nangi Jumadil , Asmara Ida Bagus Gede Pala , Sarita Muh. Ihsan , Jaya Laode Muh. Golok , Mokui Hasmina Tari , Tajidun LM
Published: April 2024

Plagiarism is often found in the academic world and is considered a serious violation because it involves the appropriation of ideas, opinions, or writings of others. A thesis is the final work of a student that must meet scientific standards and be tailored to the field of study. It is important to check the similarity of the thesis using a web-based sistem to prevent plagiarism and ensure academic integrity. This sistem will be developed as a web-based platform with the aim of comparing the Winnowing algorithm and the Rabin-Karp algorithm in checking the similarity of thesis/final project texts with existing thesis data. In principle, both methods involve searching for strings using hashing functions to compare the sought string (m) with the compared string (n) by comparing the results of the hashing function used. However, the Winnowing algorithm differs in that it does not use all hash values from each formed set of grams. The hash values formed in the previous stage will be divided into a window of size (w). In this research, the sistem testing uses data from Computer Engineering students at Halu Oleo University to facilitate checking the plagiarism level of theses using the Rabin-Karp and Winnowing algorithms. In this study, the Rabin-Karp and Winnowing algorithms have been implemented successfully in the plagiarism checking sistem for students' theses. The test results for the comparison of the Winnowing and Rabin-Karp algorithms in terms of processing time show that the Rabin-Karp algorithm takes 1.509 seconds, while the Winnowing algorithm takes 1.508 seconds. Subsequent testing using Normalized Mean Absolute Error (NMAE) reveals that the Rabin-Karp algorithm has an absolute error value of 0.1829, while the Winnowing algorithm has a value of 0.0194. Therefore, based on the NMAE test, the Winnowing algorithm performs better than the Rabin-Karp algorithm.
Evaluasi Kepuasan Pengguna Website Menggunakan Framework PIECES: Studi Pada Pemerintah Kabupaten Maluku Barat Daya
Authors: Malioy Rimes Jopmorestho , Sediyono Eko , Maria Evi
Published: April 2024

This research aims to evaluate the local government website of Southwest Maluku Regency using the PIECES framework, to determine the level of user satisfaction. The method used in this research is quantitative descriptive. The questionnaire was distributed to the public and State Civil Apparatus (ASN) who are users of the regional government website. The total sample for this research was 150 respondents. Measurements were carried out using a Likert scale. The research results found that users were very satisfied with the information & data presented on the local government website. In terms of performance, economics, control & security, users feel satisfied when using the website. In terms of service, users are very satisfied if the website is developed and improved further. Meanwhile, in terms of efficiency, users want additional website features, namely the online complaint feature. Overall, the average user satisfaction level is 3.99 in the satisfied category. Additional testing using PageSpeed Insight and Qualys found that the government website's performance was still low, with a score of 76. Meanwhile, in terms of security, additional testing found that the website was very good with an A+ score. The results of this research become evaluation material for website managers, namely the Southwest Maluku Regency Communication and Information Service, to make improvements to the website from several aspects that have been assessed, to increase the level of user satisfaction.