bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating the synaptic density deficit in Alzheimer’s disease using multi-contrast CEST imaging
Authors: Shahid Syed Salman , Dzemidzic Mario , Butch Elizabeth R. , Jarvis Erin E. , Snyder Scott E. , Wu Yu-Chien
Published: March 2024

In vivo noninvasive imaging of neurometabolites is crucial to improve our understanding of the underlying pathophysiological mechanism in neurodegenerative diseases. Abnormal changes in synaptic organization leading to synaptic degradation and neuronal loss is considered as one of the primary factors driving Alzheimer’s disease pathology. Magnetic resonance based molecular imaging techniques such as chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) can provide neurometabolite specific information which may relate to underlying pathological and compensatory mechanisms. In this study, CEST and short echo time single voxel MRS was performed to evaluate the sensitivity of cerebral metabolites to beta-amyloid (Aβ) induced synaptic deficit in the hippocampus of a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease. The CEST based spectra (Z-spectra) were acquired on a 9.4 Tesla small animal MR imaging system with two radiofrequency (RF) saturation amplitudes (1.47 μT and 5.9 μT) to obtain creatine-weighted and glutamate-weighted CEST contrasts, respectively. Multi-pool Lorentzian fitting and quantitative T1 longitudinal relaxation maps were used to obtain metabolic specific apparent exchange-dependent relaxation (AREX) maps. Short echo time (TE = 12 ms) single voxel MRS was acquired to quantify multiple neurometabolites from the right hippocampus region. AREX contrasts and MRS based metabolite concentration levels were examined in the ARTE10 animal model for Alzheimer’s disease and their wild type (WT) littermate counterparts (age = 10 months). Using MRS voxel as a region of interest, group-wise analysis showed significant reduction in Glu-AREX and Cr-AREX in ARTE10, compared to WT animals. The MRS based results in the ARTE10 mice showed significant decrease in glutamate (Glu) and glutamate-total creatine (Glu/tCr) ratio, compared to WT animals. The MRS results also showed significant increase in total creatine (tCr), phosphocreatine (PCr) and glutathione (GSH) concentration levels in ARTE10, compared to WT animals. In the same ROI, Glu-AREX and Cr-AREX demonstrated positive associations with Glu/tCr ratio. These results indicate the involvement of neurotransmitter metabolites and energy metabolism in Aβ-mediated synaptic degradation in the hippocampus region. The study also highlights the feasibility of CEST and MRS to identify and track multiple competing and compensatory mechanisms involved in heterogeneous pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease in vivo.
The effectiveness of botulinum toxin for temporomandibular disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Saini Ravinder S. , Ali Abdullah Almoyad Muhammad , Binduhayyim Rayan Ibrahim H. , Quadri Syed Altafuddin , Gurumurthy Vishwanath , Bavabeedu Shashit Shetty , Kuruniyan Mohammed Saheer , Naseef Punnoth Poonkuzhi , Mosaddad Seyed Ali , Heboyan Artak
Published: March 2024

Objective

The current body of research on utilizing botulinum toxin (BTX) to manage temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) has not yet yielded definitive conclusions. The primary objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of BTX in pain reduction for TMDs compared to placebo and other treatments. The secondary outcomes evaluated were adverse events, maximum mouth opening, bruxism events, and maximum occlusal force.

Materials and methods

A literature search was performed on PubMed, Dimension Publication, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The RoB 2 tool was used for quality assessment. The mean differences in pain scores were estimated to measure the effect of BTX on pain reduction. For adverse events, the risk ratio for the incidence of side effects was calculated.

Results

Two hundred and sixty non-duplicate articles were identified; however, only 14 RCTS were included in this review. The total study population included 395 patients. The overall risk of bias showed a low to moderate quality of evidence. Results from 6 studies were reported only narratively; four studies were used for meta-analysis on pain reduction, and five were used for meta-analysis on adverse events. The control used in the meta-analysis was placebo injections. Results of the meta-analysis for pain reduction were statistically insignificant for the BTX group with mean differences at MD = −1.71 (95% CI, −2.87 to −0.5) at one month, -1.53 (95% CI, −2.80 to −0.27) at three months, and -1.33 (95% CI, −2.74 to 0.77) at six months. This showed that BTX treatment was not significantly better than placebo for a reduction in pain scores at 1, 3, and 6 months. Regarding safety, the placebo group showed a relative risk of 1.34 (95%CI, 0.48–6.78) and 1.17 (95%CI, 0.54–3.88) at 1 and 3 months respectively. However, the risks were not statistically significant. There was also no difference in the effectiveness of BTX compared to placebo and other treatments for maximum mouth opening, bruxism events, and maximum occlusal force.

Conclusion

BTX was not associated with better outcomes in terms of pain reduction, adverse events, maximum mouth opening, bruxism events, and maximum occlusal force. More high-quality RCTs are needed to better understand this topic.
Determinants of intention to leave among nurses and physicians in a hospital setting during the COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: de Vries Neeltje , Maniscalco Laura , Matranga Domenica , Bouman José , de Winter J Peter
Published: March 2024

Background

The global outbreak of COVID-19 has brought to light the profound impact that large-scale disease outbreaks can have on healthcare systems and the dedicated professionals who serve within them. It becomes increasingly important to explore strategies for retaining nurses and physicians within hospital settings during such challenging times. This paper aims to investigate the determinants of retention among nurses and physicians during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Method

A systematic review of other potential determinants impacting retention rates during the pandemic was carried out. Secondly, a meta-analysis on the prevalence of intention to leave for nurses and physicians during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Findings

A comprehensive search was performed within four electronic databases on March 17 2023. Fifty-five papers were included in the systematic review, whereas thirty-three papers fulfilled the eligibility criteria for the meta-analysis. The systematic review resulted in six themes of determinants impacting intention to leave: personal characteristics, job demands, employment services, working conditions, work relationships, and organisational culture. The main determinants impacting the intention to leave are the fear of COVID-19, age, experience, burnout symptoms and support. Meta-analysis showed a prevalence of intent to leave the current job of 38% for nurses (95% CI: 26%-51%) and 29% for physicians (95% CI: 21%-39%), whereas intention to leave the profession for nurses 28% (95% CI: 21%-34%) and 24% for physicians (95% CI: 23%-25%).

Conclusion

The findings of this paper showed the critical need for hospital managers to address the concerning increase in nurses’ and physicians’ intentions to leave during the COVID-19 pandemic. This intention to leave is affected by a complex conjunction of multiple determinants, including the fear of COVID-19 and the confidence in and availability of personal protective equipment. Moreover, individual factors like age, experience, burnout symptoms, and support are maintained in this review. Understanding the influence of determinants on retention during the COVID-19 pandemic offers an opportunity to formulate prospective strategies for retaining nurses and physicians within hospital settings.
Optimizing strength of directly recycled aluminum chip-based parts through a hybrid RSM-GA-ANN approach in sustainable hot forging
Authors: Altharan Yahya M. , Shamsudin Shazarel , Lajis Mohd Amri , Al-Alimi Sami , Yusuf Nur Kamilah , Alduais Nayef Abdulwahab Mohammed , Ghaleb Atef M. , Zhou Wenbin
Published: March 2024

Direct recycling of aluminum waste is crucial in sustainable manufacturing to mitigate environmental impact and conserve resources. This work was carried out to study the application of hot press forging (HPF) in recycling AA6061 aluminum chip waste, aiming to optimize operating factors using Response Surface Methodology (RSM), Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and Genetic algorithm (GA) strategy to maximize the strength of recycled parts. The experimental runs were designed using Full factorial and RSM via Minitab 21 software. RSM-ANN models were employed to examine the effect of factors and their interactions on response and to predict output, while GA-RSM and GA-ANN were used for optimization. The chips of different morphology were cold compressed into billet form and then hot forged. The effect of varying forging temperature (Tp, 450–550°C), holding time (HT, 60–120 minutes), and chip surface area to volume ratio (AS:V, 15.4–52.6 mm2/mm3) on ultimate tensile strength (UTS) was examined. Maximum UTS (237.4 MPa) was achieved at 550°C, 120 minutes and 15.4 mm2/mm3 of chip’s AS: V. The Tp had the largest contributing effect ratio on the UTS, followed by HT and AS:V according to ANOVA analysis. The proposed optimization process suggested 550°C, 60 minutes, and 15.4 mm2 as the optimal condition yielding the maximum UTS. The developed models’ evaluation results showed that ANN (with MSE = 1.48%) outperformed RSM model. Overall, the study promotes sustainable production by demonstrating the potential of integrating RSM and ML to optimize complex manufacturing processes and improve product quality.
Uptake of COVID-19 vaccine among high-risk urban populations in Southern Thailand using the COM-B model
Authors: Suwanbamrung Charuai , Srinam Benchawan , Promkool Pakawan , Suwannakarn Warissara , Siripanich Sangchom , Rahman Md. Siddikur , Stanikzai Muhammad Haroon
Published: March 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has imposed unprecedented suffering on social and individual levels worldwide. Vaccines against COVID-19 have been prioritized as a crucial strategy for ending the pandemic as well as minimizing its consequences.

Objectives

This study aimed to determine the uptake of COVID-19 vaccine among high-risk urban populations in Southern Thailand using the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, and Behavior (COM-B) model.

Methods

We conducted a web-based cross-sectional study in the Hat Yai district, Songkhla province in Southern Thailand, in September and October 2021. The questionnaire was composed of sections on sociodemographic characteristics, COVID-19 vaccination status, and COM-B constructs. We employed a multivariable logistic regression analysis to determine factors associated with the uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine. We set statistical significance at p < 0.05.

Results

In this study, females constituted 54.7% of the total participants (n = 358), and nearly half of the participants (45.8%) were in the younger age group (18–29). Of all the participants, 59.5% (95%CI: 54.2%-64.6%) received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Factors associated with the uptake of COVID-19 vaccine and their adjusted OR (95% CI) were being married: 3.59 (2.06–6.24), having a graduate degree: 2.34 (1.38–3.96), gainfully employed: 3.30 (1.91–5.67), having a high level of opportunity: 2.90 (1.48–5.66), and having a high level of motivation: 2.87 (1.17–17.08).

Conclusion

The uptake of COVID-19 vaccines was moderate in this population. Moreover, the results showed that the COM-B model is useful in predicting COVID-19 vaccine uptake. The findings of this study could be used to aid future public health interventions in any event of outbreaks similar to COVID-19 disease in Thailand and beyond.
“There hasn’t been a push to identify patients in the emergency department”—Staff perspectives on automated identification of candidates for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP): A qualitative study
Authors: Devlin Samantha A. , Johnson Amy K. , Stanford Kimberly A. , Haider Sadia , Ridgway Jessica P.
Published: March 2024

Automated algorithms for identifying potential pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) candidates are effective among men, yet often fail to detect cisgender women (hereafter referred to as “women”) who would most benefit from PrEP. The emergency department (ED) is an opportune setting for implementing automated identification of PrEP candidates, but there are logistical and practical challenges at the individual, provider, and system level. In this study, we aimed to understand existing processes for identifying PrEP candidates and to explore determinants for incorporating automated identification of PrEP candidates within the ED, with specific considerations for ciswomen, through a focus group and individual interviews with ED staff. From May to July 2021, we conducted semi-structured qualitative interviews with 4 physicians and a focus group with 4 patient advocates working in a high-volume ED in Chicago. Transcripts were coded using Dedoose software and analyzed for common themes. In our exploratory study, we found three major themes: 1) Limited PrEP knowledge among ED staff, particularly regarding its use in women; 2) The ED does not have a standardized process for assessing HIV risk; and 3) Perspectives on and barriers/facilitators to utilizing an automated algorithm for identifying ideal PrEP candidates. Overall, ED staff had minimal understanding of the need for PrEP among women. However, participants recognized the utility of an electronic medical record (EMR)-based automated algorithm to identify PrEP candidates in the ED. Facilitators to an automated algorithm included organizational support/staff buy-in, patient trust, and dedicated support staff for follow-up/referral to PrEP care. Barriers reported by participants included time constraints, hesitancy among providers to prescribe PrEP due to follow-up concerns, and potential biases or oversight resulting from missing or inaccurate information within the EMR. Further research is needed to determine the feasibility and acceptability of an EMR-based predictive HIV risk algorithm within the ED setting.
Compounding endowment effects when trading draft picks in the Australian Football League
Authors: Chandrakumaran Jemuel , Larkin Paul , McIntosh Sam , Robertson Sam
Published: March 2024

Endowment effect relates to a situation when decision makers are more likely to retain an object they own, than acquire the same object when they do not own it. Studies have often concluded that players recruited early on through drafts are more likely to be held in team rosters irrespective of their marginal utility. We tested the hypothesis wherein this effect would compound when the pick used to select a player is traded between teams. Using a sample of draftees selected between 2003 and 2016 in the Australian Football League, we created a proportional hazard model to predict the career longevity of a player with their drafting team and overall career. The results suggest each subsequent trade marginally reduced the exit of a player by a log normal rate of 0.269 in their career with the team that initially drafted them. The findings were attributed to the premium requested by the original team that is compounded with every exchange as the reference points used to determine value have also shifted with the trade.
A Novel Study for Automatic Two-Class and Three-Class COVID-19 Severity Classification of CT Images using Eight Different CNNs and Pipeline Algorithm
Authors: Yaşar Hüseyin , Ceylan Murat , Cebeci Hakan , Kılınçer Abidin , Seher Nusret , Kanat Fikret , Koplay Mustafa
Published: March 2024

SARS-CoV-2 has caused a severe pandemic worldwide. This virus appeared at the end of 2019. This virus causes respiratory distress syndrome. Computed tomography (CT) imaging provides important radiological information in the diagnosis and clinical evaluation of pneumonia caused by bacteria or a virus. CT imaging is widely utilized in the identification and evaluation of COVID-19. It is an important requirement to establish diagnostic support systems using artificial intelligence methods to alleviate the workload of healthcare systems and radiologists due to the disease. In this context, an important study goal is to determine the clinical severity of the pneumonia caused by the disease. This is important for determining treatment procedures and the follow-up of a patient’s condition. In the study, automatic COVID-19 severity classification was performed using three-class (mild, moderate, and severe) and two-class (non-severe and severe). In the study, deep learning models were used for classification. Also, CT images were utilized as radiological images. A total of 483 COVID-19 CT-image slices, 267 mild, 156 moderate, and 60 severe, were used. These images and labels were used directly for the three classifications. In the two-class classification, the mild and moderate images were accepted as non-severe. A total of eight classifications were made with convolutional neural network (CNN) architectures. These architectures are MobileNetv2, ResNet101, Xception, Inceptionv3, GoogleNet, EfficientNetb0, DenseNet201, and DarkNet53. In the study, the results of the top four CNN architectures with the best performance were combined using a pipeline algorithm. In this way, it is seen that significant improvements have been achieved in the results of the study. Before using the pipeline algorithm for the three-class classification, the results of weighted recall-sensitivity (SNST), specificity (SPCF), accuracy (ACCR), F-1 score (F-1), area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), and overall ACCR were obtained: 0.7785, 0.8351, 0.8299, 0.7758, 0.9112 and 0.7785, respectively. After using the pipeline algorithm for the three-class classification, the results of these parameters were obtained: 0.8095, 0.8555, 0.8563, 0.8076, 0.9089, and 0.8095, respectively. Before using the pipeline algorithm for the two-class classification, the results of SNST, SPCF, ACCR, F-1, and AUC were obtained: 0.9740, 0.8500, 0.9482, 0.9703, and 0.9788, respectively. After using the pipeline algorithm for the two-class classification, the results of these parameters were obtained: 0.9811, 0.8333, 0.9627, 0.9788, and 0.9851, respectively.
Los platos de asas festoneadas en sigillata africana C3 del tipo Hayes 51B: Un singular ejemplar de Complutum (Alcalá de Henares, Madrid). A propósito del comercio de productos africanos en el interior de Hispania
Authors: Juan Tovar Luis Carlos , Rascón Marqués Sebastián , Sánchez Montes Ana Lucía
Published: March 2024

El hallazgo en el centro de Hispania de productos cerámicos procedentes del comercio mediterráneo con el norte de África, durante el periodo tardorromano, está conociendo un fuerte incremento en los últimos tiempos como consecuencia del estudio de diferentes contextos excavados en fechas recientes. Producto de ese comercio presentamos hoy un ejemplar excepcional de plato/fuente de terra sigillata africana del tipo Hayes 51B = Salomonson c de la Fase C3, recuperado en las excavaciones realizadas entre 2010 y 2012 en la Casa de la Lucerna de la Máscara Teatral de la urbs romana de Complutum, actual Alcalá de Henares, Madrid. Esta domus ha sido datada en el s. I d. C., si bien experimenta una fuerte transformación cuando varias de sus estancias son modificadas para construir pequeños ‘apartamentos’ o para producciones artesanales, perdurando hasta cerca del 400 d. C. El estudio morfotipológico de este ejemplar procedente de talleres tunecinos, primero completo hallado en excavación fuera de Túnez, y de las escasas piezas integras conocidas de esta rara forma, nos permite analizar los diversos patrones utilizados en su confección y abordar una primera sistematización de los diferentes modelos ornamentales conocidos y de las características del festoneado de sus asas. También nos da pie para realizar una breve reflexión sobre el comercio de productos cerámicos norteafricanos hacia el centro de Hispania.
Analisis Faktor-Faktor yang Memengaruhi Kematian Neonatus: Studi Retrospektif di Rumah Sakit Wangaya Denpasar
Authors: Predani Ni Luh Putu Diaswari , Bikin Suryawan I Wayan , Suryaningsih Putu Siska
Published: March 2024

Latar belakang. Kematian pada masa neonatal masih menjadi penyebab kematian tertinggi pada bayi dan balita di Indonesia pada tahun 2021 dengan angka kematian bayi di Indonesia 12 dari 1000 bayi lahir hidup. Upaya untuk menurunkan angka kematian neonatus di Indonesia terus dilakukan dengan target 9 per 1000 kelahiran pada tahun 2025. Berat badan lahir rendah, asfiksia, prematuritas, kelainan kongenital serta sepsis menjadi faktor risiko tertinggi kejadian kematian neonatus. Tujuan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui faktor-faktor yang berhubungan dengan kematian neonatus di Rumah Sakit Umum Daerah Wangaya, Denpasar.Metode. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode analitik observasional cross-sectional dengan data sekunder menggunakan rekam medis. Teknik pengambilan sampel adalah dengan consecutive sampling dengan total sampel 114 neonatus yang memenuhi kriteria inklusi dan eksklusi. Variabel yang diteliti adalah berat badan lahir rendah, asfiksia, prematuritas, kelainan kongenital dan infeksi. Data dianalisis dengan SPSS versi 23 mengunakan uji Chi-square. Hubungan antar variabel dikatakan signifikan apabila nilai p<0,05 dengan interval kepercayaan 95%.Hasil. Faktor yang berhubungan dengan kematian neonatus adalah berat badan lahir rendah (p=0,001 dan RP 2,02 dengan IK 95%: 1,18-3,07), asfiksia (p=0,000 dan RP 2,56 dengan IK 95%: 1,7-3,85) dan usia kehamilan kurang bulan (p=0,000 dan RP 2,52 dengan IK 95%: 1,68-3,89). Sedangkan kelainan kongenital dan infeksi tidak berhubungan secara bermakna dengan kejadian kematian neonatus (p=0,1 RP 1,6; 95%; IK 95%: 1,09-2,44 dan p=0,5 RP 1,14; IK 95%: 0,7-1,68)Kesimpulan. Disimpulkan bahwa ada hubungan yang bermakna antara berat badan lahir rendah, asfiksia dan usia kehamilan kurang bulan dengan kematian neonatus di Rumah Sakit Umum Daerah Wangaya, Denpasar.
Hubungan Jenis, Jumlah, dan Lama Pemberian Obat Anti Epilepsi dengan Kadar 25-Hidroksi Vitamin D pada Anak Epilepsi
Authors: Wijaya Aji Kristianto , Salendu Praevilia Margareth , Mandei Jose Meky
Published: March 2024

Latar belakang. Penggunaan obat anti epilepsi diduga dapat menyebabkan defisiensi vitamin D.Tujuan. Mengetahui adanya hubungan jenis, jumlah, dan lama pemberian obat anti epilepsi terhadap kadar 25-hidroksi vitamin D pada anak epilepsi.Metode. Penelitian observasional analitik secara potong lintang pada anak epilepsi usia 7 bulan-18 tahun di poli neurologi anak RSUP Prof. R. D. Kandou Manado antara 1 Agustus 2022 - 31 Desember 2022. Hasil. Dari total 66 anak epilepsi ditemukan 19 anak defisiensi vitamin D (28,8%), 20 anak insufisiensi (30,3%), dan 27 anak status vitamin D normal (40,9%). Anak yang mendapat obat asam valproat, fenitoin, dan karbamazepin memiliki kadar 25(OH)D sebesar 27,66 (15,45 – 58,10), 25,17 (21,44 – 33,50), dan 29,49 (17,89 – 41,10) dengan nilai p = 0,991. Anak yang mendapat pengobatan monoterapi memiliki kadar 25(OH)D lebih tinggi yaitu 28,09 (16,20 – 58,10) dibandingkan pengobatan politerapi yaitu 18,94 (15,45 – 35,10) dengan nilai p=0,036. Lama pemberian obat monoterapi dan politerapi dengan kadar 25(OH)D diperoleh nilai signifikansi sebesar 0,000 (sig < 0.05) dengan koefisien korelasi sebesar -0,528 (0,41 – 0,60). Kesimpulan. Tidak terdapat hubungan antara jenis OAE dengan kadar vitamin D. Terdapat hubungan antara jumlah OAE dan lama pemberian OAE dengan kadar vitamin D.
Associations of Peer Pressure and Self Esteem among LGB Youth from the Metropolitan Cities of India
Authors: Kurade Palomi , Topno Apurv
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the relationship between peer pressure and self-esteem among lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) youth in major Indian cities. Grounded in the Minority Stress Model, which suggests that minority groups face chronic stress due to societal stigma and discrimination, and informed by prior research highlighting the negative impact of peer pressure on mental health among LGB individuals, this research aims to elucidate the specific dynamics within the Indian cultural context.Using data from 61 LGB participants aged 15 to 29, collected via an online survey platform, Pearson's correlation analysis was employed to examine the association between peer pressure and self-esteem. The findings reveal a significant negative correlation between peer pressure and self-esteem, indicating that increased peer pressure is linked to lower self-esteem among LGB youth. Moreover, the study investigates differences in peer pressure and self-esteem among lesbians, gays, and bisexuals, uncovering variations in peer pressure scores between these groups.An intriguing observation is the higher representation of bisexual and non-binary individuals compared to typical survey responses, highlighting the importance of inclusivity in LGB research. The study underscores the need for interventions to address peer pressure and promote positive self-concept among LGB youth in urban Indian contexts. Future research avenues may explore the efficacy of interventions in enhancing self-esteem among LGB individuals and broaden the sample to encompass diverse sexual identities within the LGB community.
Noninvasive Markers of Inflammation and Protein Loss Augment Diagnosis of Pediatric Celiac Disease
Authors: Sutton Kimberly A. , He Mai , Ma Changqing , Liu Ta-Chiang , Faubion William A. , Hoffmann Julie , Linneman Laura , Rodriguez Cynthia , Holtz Lori R.
Published: March 2024

INTRODUCTION:

Circulating tissue transglutaminase immunoglobulin A concentration is a sensitive and specific indicator of celiac disease, but discrepancies between serologic and histologic findings occur. We hypothesized that fecal markers of inflammation and protein loss would be greater in patients with untreated celiac disease than in healthy controls. Our study aims to evaluate multiple fecal and plasma markers in celiac disease and correlate these findings with serologic and histologic findings as noninvasive means of evaluating disease activity.

METHODS:

Participants with positive celiac serologies and controls with negative celiac serologies were prospectively enrolled before upper endoscopy. Blood, stool, and duodenal biopsies were collected. Concentrations of fecal lipocalin-2, calprotectin, and alpha-1-antitrypsin and plasma lipocalin-2 were determined. Biopsies underwent modified Marsh scoring. Significance was tested between cases and controls, modified Marsh score and tissue transglutaminase immunoglobulin A concentration.

RESULTS:

Lipocalin-2 was significantly elevated in the stool (P= 0.006) but not the plasma of participants with positive celiac serologies. There was no significant difference in fecal calprotectin or alpha-1 antitrypsin between participants with positive celiac serologies and controls. Fecal alpha-1 antitrypsin >100 mg/dL was specific, but not sensitive for biopsy-proven celiac disease.

DISCUSSION:

Lipocalin-2 is elevated in the stool but not the plasma of patients with celiac disease suggesting a role of local inflammatory response. Calprotectin was not a useful marker in the diagnosis of celiac disease. While random fecal alpha-1 antitrypsin was not significantly elevated in cases compared with controls, an elevation of greater than 100 mg/dL was 90% specific for biopsy-proven celiac disease.
On the vortex identification within a linear blade cascade - an experimental research
Authors: Flídr Erik
Published: March 2024

This paper deals with the identification of the individual vortical structures within a linear blade cascade based on H criteria. The experimental data obtained from the pressure measurement at the cascade outlet were evaluated by a standard procedure to obtain the velocity field in one plane. Then, the vorticity in the flow field was evaluated based on Crocco’s theorem, and in the final step, the helicity density was calculated. The impact of the inlet flow angle on the velocity field as well as on the vortical structures was investigated. The effect of the value of the H threshold on the vortex identification is discussed in the last part of the paper.
Outdoor performance investigation of a thermoelectric cooler-integrated solar air heating collector
Authors: Segnon Josué R. , Njoku Howard O.
Published: March 2024

Solar air heating systems are continuously being improved by combining them with other energy conversion technologies. In this paper, outdoor tests were carried out on a thermoelectric heat-pumping solar air heater (TE-SAH), with four (04) TECs (TEC1–12706) attached to the backside of the absorber plate, and powered by a 40Wp mono-Si PV module to pump heat from the absorber plate into the heated air. The thermal energy production, energy efficiency, heat loss coefficients, and heat removal factor were evaluated and compared with a reference system without TECs. The heat collection and energy efficiency of the solar air heater were improved by 7.14 % and 66.71 %, respectively, with the integration of TECs. Heat losses also decreased by 0.46 MJ. Furthermore, the estimated heat removal factor for the TE-SAH was 0.55, higher than 0.49 obtained for the reference SAH. These results showed that PV-TE heat-pumping is a viable means of improving the thermal performance of solar air heaters.
Health Risk Factors of Fishermen in West Seram Regency, Indonesia
Authors: Sillehu Sahrir , Utami Tri , Ibrahim Ilyas , Peluw Zulfikar , Lating Zulfikar
Published: March 2024

Objective: Fishermen are a group of workers who play a major role in the development of a country’s economy but are susceptible to health challenges due to the high-risk nature of their profession. Therefore, in this study, we determined the health risk factors among fishermen in West Seram Regency, Indonesia. Methods: We used a cross-sectional design to develop a predictive model for fishermen’s health. We collected data through a survey using validated and reliable questionnaires, followed by analysis with multiple logistic regression. The sample population consisted of 114 participants. Results: Smoking, exercise, and diving habits influenced the health of the participants with p-values of .016, .005, and .001, respectively. Parents’ health history also had a significant impact, with a p-value of .021. Furthermore, it was considered to be the dominant factor, possessing an Exp(B) value of 6.7. Conclusion: Based on the findings, these groups of workers were advised to maintain health through smoking cessation, engaging in regular physical activity, and undergoing regular check-ups at primary healthcare facilities.
Analisis Hubungan Environmental Sound Noise Terhadap Kondisi Lingkungan Perairan di Perairan Selat Lombok, Nusa Tenggara Barat
Authors: Rabbani Mochamad Rafif , Sugianto Denny Nugroho , Pianto Teguh Arif , Handoyo Gentio
Published: March 2024

Perairan Selat Lombok merupakan salah satu perairan di Indonesia yang memiliki manfaat yang penting bagi masyarakat sekitar dan dinamika Oseanografi yang komplek seperti noise. Akustik Tomografi Pantai merupakan salah satu teknologi yang mampu merekam gangguan lingkungan sekitar atau noise. Alat ini telah dipasang di 3 lokasi di Perairan Selat Lombok dengan keluaran data berupa data Read After Write (RAW) dan Environmental Sound Nois (ESN). Data ESN digunakan untuk monitoring kondisi lingkungan di sekitar tranduser dengan hanya melakukan proses receive tanpa adanya proses transmit. Data dari stasiun akustik tomografi kemudian dikonversikan menggunakan softwere MATLAB dengan satuan Standar Deviasi ESN. Perbandingan nilai ESN dilakukan untuk mengamati bentuk lingkungan di sekitar alat tranduser dengan menggunakan 3 variabel pembanding yaitu kecepatan angin, curah hujan, dan tinggi gelombang signifikan. Pengolahan menggunakan analisis regresi polinomial dan Principal Components Analysis (PCA). Hasil menunjukkan bahwa nilai regresi pada bulan Desember jauh lebih besar dibandingkan pada bulan Januari di ketiga stasiun. serta verifikasi model terhadap tinggi gelombang menunjukkan nilai Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) sekitar 0.75 m hingga 0.78 m. Adanya banyak faktor yang sangat kompleks mempengaruhi nilai ESN diperlukan studi lebih lanjut.
Analysis of Key Factors for Successful Implementation of the Last Planner System to Improve Time Performance on Dam Projects
Authors: Kussumardianadewi Bernadette Detty , Husin Albert Eddy , Susianti Anti
Published: March 2024

Infrastructure development is crucial to the development of a nation’s economy. Based on data from the 2021 World Competitiveness Yearbook, Indonesia's infrastructure is ranked 57th out of 64 countries and one of the assessment criteria is related to water resources. Water resource management in Indonesia is still faced with fundamental challenges, including the limited water storage capacity in Indonesia so alternative water resources development is needed, among which is through the construction of dams. In practice, dam projects are very vulnerable to time delays. One of the solutions to this problem is the application of the last planner system method. The implementation of the last planner system can help create major improvements in project planning, increase workflow and productivity, and reduce project time and site accidents. This research has an update regarding the implementation of the last planner system method on a dam project and analyzing the key success factors using SEM-PLS. According to the study's findings, the key success factors of the implementation of the last planner system method on dam projects are budget plan, work schedule, clarity of scope of work, work plan, planning process, and weekly plan
Numerical Modeling of Claystone Slope Stability (Case Study of the Sumedang-Cirebon Road Section Km 68+750)
Authors: Wahab Dimas Athhariyadi , Tohari Adrin , Hamdhan Indra Noer
Published: March 2024

The Sumedang-Cirebon Km 68+750 road section is a national road and an important transportation infrastructure in West Java. Albeit the road section's slope has previously been strengthened with bored pile reinforcement, the slope continues to move. This study's objective is to examine slope stability by considering earthquake loads and to suggest improvements for efficient slope reinforcement. Slope stability analysis utilizing PLAXIS 2D program based on the finite element method and DMT-KD Method which is the result of field testing using the Flat Dilatometer Test (DMT)). PLAXIS modeling results show that the slope failure line is deeper below the bored pile reinforcement. The results of the analysis using DMT-KD method showed similar slope failure, the conclusion is DMT-KD method can be the initial basis for slope stability analysis on mudstone. The PLAXIS modeling results obtained a static safety factor of 1.113 and a safety factor due to an earthquake of <1, both of which fall short of the requirements of minimum of 1.5 for static loads and 1.4 for earthquake loads. The body of the road develops cracked as a result of this issue. Additional reinforcement modeling is carried out using bored piles and gabions. As shown in the results of additional reinforcement modeling, bored pile reinforcement that reaches below the slope failure line is more successful than gabion reinforcement at the slope's base in raising the safety factor.
Konference Society for the Study of Psychiatry and Culture a Society for Psychological Anthropology
Authors: Šromová Ester
Published: March 2024

Na univerzitě v San Diegu se konala multidisciplinární konference zaměřená na duševní zdraví, jeho formy, naše chování a subjektivní zkušenosti našich těl a mysli, nazvaná Ecologies of Mind – Practices That Harm, Practices That Heal. Společně ji organizovaly dvě společnosti, a to Society for the Study of Psychiatry and Culture (SSPC) a Society for Psychological Anthropology (SPA). Jejich příspěvky přitom probíhaly simultánně a každý účastník mohl navštěvovat panely obou organizací. Účastníci pocházeli primárně z oblasti antropologie, psychiatrie a psychologie; konference byla zaměřena také na vzájemnou mezioborovou podporu.
Master curves construction for viscoelastic functions of bituminous materials
Authors: Polacco Giovanni , Filippi Sara
Published: March 2024

The performance of bituminous materials is often evaluated using rheological properties measured within the linear viscoelastic region. If there is a univocal temperature dependence of all the relaxation times, data obtained in different operating conditions can be translated onto a logarithmic scale where they partially overlap and merge into a single master curve. This is the well-known time–temperature superposition principle that has been successfully applied for decades. However, the empirical nature of the method has led to many different procedures being used for the graphical construction of the master curve. In addition, the continuously increasing calculating power has led to new approaches, such as the simultaneous modelling of the represented viscoelastic function. Losing track of the basic statements of the method is the hidden drawback of this wide range of available protocols with the risk of artefacts and incongruences being introduced in the construction of the master curves. This review summarizes these basic statements together with the empirical and phenomenological approaches developed over the years. The aim of this study is to help the reader in choosing the most appropriate method to build the master curves. Although the subject of the review is of general application, the field of bitumen is focused on.
A comparative study on corrosion and wear performances of Ti–Nb–(Cu, Co) biomedical shape memory alloys
Authors: Wang Yunfei , Liu Wei , Liu Xinnuo , Wang Haizhen , Sun Bin , Cao Xinjian , Liu Xiao , Song Yuehai , Yi Xiaoyang , Meng Xianglong , Gao Zhiyong
Published: March 2024

The present study presented the systematic investigations on the influence of Co and Cu on the corrosion behaviors and wear resistance of Ti–Nb based shape memory alloys. The results demonstrated that the addition of Co and Cu can effectively enhance the corrosion resistance of Ti–Nb based shape memory alloys. By optimizing the chemical composition, the superior corrosion resistance with (φ
corr = –0.95499 V, J
corr = 357.92 μA cm−2) and (φ
corr = –0.96775 V, J
corr = 467.54 μA cm−2) can be obtained in Ti–Nb–Co1.0 and Ti–Nb–Cu1.5 shape memory alloys, respectively. Similarly, the wear properties of Ti–Nb based shape memory alloys were also dependent on the ternary alloying elements. The friction coefficient of Ti–Nb based shape memory alloy firstly decreased and then increased with the content of ternary alloying element increasing. And then decreased again, as the exceeding ternary alloying element was added. In addition, the wear behaviors of Ti–Nb based shape memory alloys can be attributed to the combination of abrasive wear, adhesive wear, and oxidative wear, irrespective of the types of ternary alloying elements. In contrast, Ti–Nb–Cu5.0 shape memory alloy has the lowest friction coefficient of 0.45, which is smaller than that (0.50) of Ti–Nb–Co5.0 shape memory alloy.
Stiftung dekolonisiert: Eine Lektüre von Merleau-Pontys Vorlesungen über Institution
Authors: Guenther Lisa
Published: March 2024

This paper offers a close reading of Merleau-Ponty’s Institution Course Notes to reflect on the history of colonisation as both an event and a structure. On the one hand, colonial invasion is a singular cataclysmic event; on the other hand, it establishes legal, social, economic and psychic structures that seem increasingly inevitable the more they are repeated. Likewise, decolonisation may require a singular liberatory event, but it also calls for the (re)establishment of alternative traditions that issue a different “call to follow.” A critical interpretation of Merleau-Ponty in conversation with abolitionist and decolonial thinkers helps to clarify the temporal and political relation between event and structure, building bridges between phenomenology and radical politics.
A study of the vibrations of a rotor bearing suspended by a hybrid spring system of shape memory alloys
Authors: Mohammed Laith H. , Atiyah Qasim A.
Published: March 2024

The study of rotor-bearing vibration is crucial across various fields, encompassing applications such as rotating machinery, wind turbines, washing machines, and elevators. However, operational challenges can arise from these machines’ propensity to vibrate under specific conditions. To address this issue, the current research investigates the utilization of shape memory alloy (SMA) springs as intelligent materials in the rotor suspension system. SMA’s unique property of changing stiffness with temperature-induced phase shifts is harnessed, leading to the construction of a test rig for validating vibration characteristics. A novel hybrid bearing is devised to effectively manage vibrations, particularly in resonance zones. To the authors’ knowledge, this new model is never reported in the literature. Then, an accelerometer is employed to measure the rotor shaft response corresponding to disc position vibration signals. Furthermore, a numerical model is developed to validate experimental results, taking into account the phase change of SMA springs and the disc’s influence on the rotor bearing’s natural frequency. Temperature variations from 20 to 80°C resulted in a 13% change in natural frequency for the hybrid spring configuration. The experimental findings align closely with ANSYS simulations, displaying an acceptable error ratio, with the highest error remaining within 20% thresholds.
Flood risk assessment, a case study in an arid environment of Southeast Morocco
Authors: Diani Khadija , Hamza Mohamed Hafedh , Elbelrhiti Hicham , Kacimi Ilias , Faqihi Fatima Zahra , Haghighi Ali Torabi , El Amrani Mohamed , Hahou Youssef , Masmoudi Lhoussaine , Lahcen Ousaid , Alshehri Fahad , Elhag Mohamed
Published: March 2024

Since the early 1980s, several regions of Morocco have experienced alternating series of wet and dry periods related to climate change, with significant consequences for the country’s economy. This study aims to map flood hazards by using a hydraulic modeling approach, with a specific focus on the Oued (river) Zaouiat Sidi Hamza passing through Zaouiat Sidi Hamza township belonging to the High Ziz watershed (province of Midelt, region of Drâa-Tafilalet, Morocco). Hydraulic modeling and flood simulation were carried out followed by mapping of the flood hazard. The Oued Zaouiat Sidi Hamza River can cause torrential flooding issues, particularly during periods of heavy storms, impacting agricultural land and certain buildings on both river banks. All the cultivated areas developed alongside the river are at risk of flooding. Moreover, undermining and erosion of the river’s banks lead to rising high-water levels and flooding agricultural terraces. The use of geographic information systems and hydraulic modeling tools is essential to gain a deeper understanding of this situation. Also, the mapping of lineaments and fractures in the study area, carried out by satellite image processing, helped to quantify the directional influence of these lineaments on the flow of the hydrographic network, on the orientation of the circulation of surface water, and on the storage of groundwater. According to this study, the most vulnerable areas to flooding and erosion are those that receive the most water in the basin and have steep slopes. Decision-makers can use the results to produce development plans tailored to combat these risks and raise awareness among the population concerned, improving water resource evaluation and forecasting, as well as improving agricultural production.
The effect of Artemisia annua L. aqueous and methanolic extracts on insulin signaling in liver of HFD/STZ diabetic mice
Authors: Reza Seyedi Moqadam S. Mohammad , Lamuki Mohammad Shokrzadeh , Sadeghimahalli Forouzan , Ghanbari Mahshid
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Many studies have shown the anti-diabetic effects of medicinal plants. But their molecular mechanism has been less studied. Understanding of these mechanisms can help to better manage the treatment of diabetes by using these plants. So, this research examined the effect of Artemisia annua extract on PI3K (phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase)/AKt (serine/threonine kinase protein B) signaling pathway in liver of high-fat diet (HFD)/Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced type 2 diabetic mice.

Methods

Groups of mice were control, untreated diabetic mice, diabetic mice treated with various doses (400, 200, 100 mg/kg) of methanolic and aqueous extract of A. annua and metformin for four weeks. Type 2 diabetes was produced by feeding high-fat diet following injection of low dose of STZ. After experiment duration all mice were sacrificed and blood glucose, insulin, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR), index of insulin sensitivity index (ISI) were detected and liver tissues were isolated for to detect m-RNA expression of PI3K and Akt.

Results

Extracts of aqueous and methanolic this plant markedly reduced hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, HOMA-IR and elevated ISI in diabetic group in comparison with un-treated diabetic mice. In addition, they could enhance the expression of AKt and PI3K m-RNA in liver tissues in diabetic mice.

Conclusions

Artemisia annua extract ameliorated insulin resistance and improved insulin action in liver via the high activity of PI3K/AKt signaling pathway. So, it can be a suitable alternative treatment to synthetic antidiabetic drugs to improve insulin action in condition of type 2 diabetes.
The interpretation of animate nouns in child and adult Mandarin: from the Universal Grinder to syntactic structure
Authors: Huang Aijun , Zhang Xiaomei , Crain Stephen
Published: March 2024

Using animate nouns to refer to entities in the world involves a complex interaction of ontology, cognition and language. The present study evaluates two accounts of the use of animate nouns, with Mandarin Chinese as the vehicle for testing between the competing accounts. One account was proposed by Cheng et al. (2008. How universal is the Universal Grinder? In Marjo van Koppen & Bert Botma (eds.), Linguistics in the Netherlands, 50–62. Amsterdam & Philadelphia: John Benjamins). These researchers contend that the count interpretation is basic for Mandarin animate nouns, due to a lexical blocking effect. To access the alternative, mass interpretation requires some kind of pragmatic coercion. A second account was proposed by Pelletier, based on English (1975. Non-Singular reference: Some preliminaries. Philosophia 5(4). 451–465; 2012. Lexical nouns are both +MASS and +COUNT, but they are neither +MASS nor + COUNT. In Diane Massam (ed.), Count and mass across languages, 9–26. Oxford: Oxford University Press). We extend this account to Mandarin animate nouns, proposing that they are encoded in the mental lexicon with both a count sense and a mass sense. To adjudicate between the accounts, we conducted four experiments that were designed to assess the interpretation assigned to animate nouns by Mandarin-speaking children and adults. The experimental conditions manipulated both the syntactic structures of the sentences and the non-linguistic contexts in which those sentences were presented. The experimental findings support our proposal that both mass and count interpretations of animate nouns are available to children and adults when sentences are presented in contexts that are congruent with these interpretations. The findings also suggest that syntactic structure is an even more critical factor in determining the interpretation that is assigned to animate nouns in Mandarin.