bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the frequency of complications resulting from open and laparoscopic surgery for hydatid cyst
Authors: Shabani Mohammad , Behnam Fatemeh , Akbari Hossein , Eidy Mohammad
Published: October 2024

Background and Objective

Hydatid cyst is a benign parasitic disease that is usually asymptomatic and is discovered incidentally. The gold standard for the treatment of this disease is surgery. Recently, a laparoscopic approach has been used to remove hydatid cysts. We decided to compare this new technique with an open conventional method.

Materials and Methods

Patients—This retrospective analytical study was conducted on patients with hepatic hydatid cysts who underwent surgery in Kashan during 2013–2020. A total of 58 patients were included in this study, 18 of whom underwent laparoscopic surgery and 40 underwent open surgery. The comparison of the two groups was performed using chi‐square and Fisher's exact tests.

Results

The average duration of surgery in the laparoscopic and open surgery groups was 135 and 151.6 min, respectively, which was not statistically significant (p‐value = .179). There was no significant difference in terms of the need for blood transfusion, conversion of laparoscopic surgery to open surgery, anaphylactic shock, infection, and death between the two groups (p > .05). However, the laparoscopic surgery group had a significantly shorter hospital stay compared with the open surgery group (p‐value < .001), and more favorite patients.

Conclusion

Considering the lack of significant difference between the two surgical methods and the reduction in the duration of surgery by a laparoscopic approach, the reduction in hospital stay of patients, and consequently the reduction in the cost of patients, it is expected that this method is a more suitable method compared with open surgery.
Treatment outcomes and esophageal cancer incidence by disease type in achalasia patients undergoing peroral endoscopic myotomy: Retrospective study
Authors: Shiwaku Akio , Shiwaku Hironari , Okada Hiroki , Kusaba Hiroshi , Hasegawa Suguru
Published: October 2024

Objectives

This retrospective study aimed to compare treatment outcomes and postoperative courses, including the incidence of esophageal cancer (EC), according to disease types, in 450 achalasia patients who underwent peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM).

Methods

Data from consecutive POEM procedures performed from September 2011 to January 2023 at a single institution were reviewed. Achalasia was classified into straight (St), sigmoid (S1), and advanced sigmoid (S2) types using esophagography findings. Regarding efficacy, POEM was considered successful if the Eckardt score was ≤3. A statistical examination of the incidence and trend of EC occurrence across the disease type of achalasia was conducted using propensity score matching.

Results

Of the 450 patients, 349 were diagnosed with St, 80 with S1, and 21 with S2. POEM efficacy was 97.9% at 1 year and 94.2% at 2 years postprocedure, with no statistical difference between disease types. Using propensity score matching, the incidence of EC in each disease type was as follows: St, 1% (1/98); S1, 2.5% (2/77); S2, 10% (2/18). While no statistical significance was observed between St (1.0%: 1/98) and all sigmoid types (4.0%, 4/95; P = 0.3686). However, a trend test revealed a tendency for EC to occur more frequently in the order of S2, S1, and St type with a statistically significant difference (P = 0.0413).

Conclusions

Outcomes of POEM are favorable for all disease types. After POEM, it is important not only to monitor the improvement of achalasia symptoms but also to pay attention to the occurrence of EC, especially in patients with sigmoid‐type achalasia.
Healthy from the Start: Co‐Designing Sleep, Nutrition and Physical Activity Resources for Young Shiftworkers—Novel Implementation and Evaluation
Authors: Shriane Alexandra E. , Ferguson Sally A. , Rigney Gabrielle , Gupta Charlotte C. , Kolbe‐Alexander Tracy , Sprajcer Madeline , Hilditch Cassie , Stanton Robert , Thomas Matthew J. W. , Paterson Jessica L. , Marino Jamie , Vincent Grace E.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The increasing prevalence of shiftwork among young adults poses significant health risks, primarily due to its disruptive effects on sleep, nutrition and physical activity. Addressing these risks necessitates the development of tailored, evidence‐based resources to support these key health behaviours. Participatory research approaches, engaging those with relevant lived experience (i.e., co‐design) are a novel and effective approach in developing these resources. As such, the aim of the present study was to explore whether sleep, nutrition and physical activity resources for young shiftworkers could be developed using participatory, co‐design approaches and how co‐designers would rate both the approaches used and the resulting resources.

Methods

A participatory approach engaged co‐designers (young, experienced or previous shiftworkers; workplace health and safety specialists; science communicators and academic experts) to complete 2–3 online questionnaires and participate in 1–2 online workshops, to co‐design sleep, nutrition and physical activity resources for young shiftworkers. Following resource development, co‐designers assessed both the participatory approach and the resulting resources, through an online questionnaire, which included the Public and Patient Engagement Evaluation Tool (PPEET).

Results

Co‐designers (n = 48) participated in the development of sleep, nutrition and physical activity resources for young shiftworkers. Co‐designers evaluated the participatory approach positively, with a mean rating across all PPEET items of 4.7 (±0.2) on a 5‐point Likert scale. Co‐designers also provided positive ratings for the resources, with the majority (91.7%) either agreeing or strongly agreeing that they were user‐friendly, valuable and informative for young shiftworkers and would serve as a credible source of health information.

Conclusion

By adopting a novel participatory approach, we successfully co‐designed sleep, nutrition and physical activity resources for young shiftworkers. Participatory approaches, including co‐design, should be considered when developing health interventions for shiftworkers, given the value of embedding lived experience to address their unique lifestyle challenges.

Patient or Public Contribution

Co‐designers and/or people with relevant lived experience were involved in all project activities: conceptualisation, design, recruitment, data collection, data analysis, knowledge translation and output generation.
Salivary Physicochemical Parameters in Relation to Dental Caries and Adiposity Status
Authors: Deng Qianyi , Wong Hai Ming , Peng Simin
Published: October 2024

Objectives

The objective of this study was to investigate the correlations between salivary physicochemical parameters, adiposity, and caries indices in Hong Kong adolescents.

Methods

A total of 921 adolescents aged 12–15 years from four randomly selected local secondary schools were invited to participate in this cross‐sectional study. Dental examinations including the number of decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT), salivary physicochemical parameters, and anthropometric measurements were performed. The Mann–Whitney U test was used to examine the differences in salivary parameters and adiposity indices between participants with different levels of caries experience. Correlations between adiposity indices, salivary parameters, and caries indices were examined using Spearman's correlation coefficients.

Results

The participation rate was 83.6%. After exclusion, data from 695 adolescents were analysed. Adolescents with high caries experience (DMFT ≥ Significant Caries Index [SiC Index]) had significantly higher weight‐to‐height ratio (W/H) and waist circumference (WC) z‐scores and lower unstimulated and stimulated salivary flow rates and buffering capacity than those with DMFT < SiC Index. Except for body mass index z‐score, the other adiposity indices were negatively correlated with at least one salivary physicochemical parameter (stimulated salivary flow rate or salivary buffering capacity) (rs ranged from −0.078 to −0.132). After adjusting for age and sex, decreased stimulated salivary flow rate was associated with higher body fat percentages, WC, and waist‐to‐height ratio z‐scores, whereas low salivary buffering capacity was associated with higher W/H and WC z‐scores.

Conclusion

There is a potential link between adiposity indices and certain salivary physicochemical parameters that are implicated in the aetiology of dental caries.
Parental education and neighbourhood socioeconomic status in the prediction of childhood overweight: A multilevel analysis
Authors: Pförtner Timo‐Kolja , Gube Monika , Koch Thilo , Michels Josef , Dohle Simone , Demirer Ibrahim
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study examined cross‐level interaction between parental education and neighbourhood SES in predicting overweight including obesity among school‐aged children.

Methods

This analysis used data from 19 984 children aged 5–6 years participating in the school‐entry examination of the years 2015 to 2019 in the Aachen city region in Germany. We employed multilevel logistic regression models to predict overweight based on parental education and neighbourhood SES, along with their cross‐level interaction, while controlling for several characteristics of the child.

Results

Children from families with intermediate (OR: 1.99; 95% CI, 1.65–2.40) and low parental education (OR: 2.55; 95% CI, 1.92–3.39) and from neighbourhoods with intermediate (OR: 1.25; 95% CI, 1.02–1.53) and low SES (OR: 1.61; 95% CI, 1.29–2.02) were at significantly higher odds for overweight. There was an indication of a cross‐level interaction effect (p‐value <0.10) to the disadvantage of children with higher parental education, suggesting that inequalities in overweight decrease in more deprived neighbourhoods. The predicted probability of overweight for children with high parental education increased from 6.4% in high SES neighbourhoods to 7.8% in intermediate and 9.9% in low SES neighbourhoods. Sensitivity analyses for obesity and a higher context level of spatial SES confirmed the results.

Conclusions

The results highlight the crucial role of both individual and contextual socioeconomic conditions in predicting childhood overweight. They also suggest that the impact of neighbourhood socioeconomic status on childhood overweight varies by parental education, particularly disadvantaging children with higher parental education, indicating a social contagion of overweight through spatial disadvantage.
Through the Lens of Fairness: A Qualitative Investigation into Co‐workers’ Perceptions of I‐deals
Authors: Gachayeva Sona , Murphy Susan , Aldossari Maryam
Published: October 2024

Amidst the rapidly evolving work environment that increasingly necessitates personalized approaches towards employees, there is a pressing need to broaden our understanding of idiosyncratic deals (i‐deals) and their third‐party implications in the workplace. Although immediate responses to i‐deals often hinge on equity and social comparison, this approach does not fully explain co‐workers' perceptions of others' i‐deals. By reconciling various theoretical accounts, we propose that co‐workers' perceptions of i‐deals largely depend on the implementation of i‐deals and related justice perceptions of co‐workers. However, our understanding of how i‐deal implementation shapes co‐workers' perceptions of i‐deals from a justice perspective remains limited. Therefore, we conducted an inductive multiple‐case study through 48 in‐depth interviews involving managers, i‐deal receivers (i‐dealers), and co‐workers. Building on our findings, we develop an emergent framework that explains how the implementation of i‐deals, when viewed through the lens of organizational justice, can shape co‐workers' perceptions of i‐deals. This novel perspective enriches the i‐deal literature by offering a fresh angle on the third‐party implications of i‐deals, emphasizing the significance of their implementation and related fairness perceptions.
The Cost of Dancing with the Government: A Conservation of Resources Theory of Political Networking and CEO Burnout
Authors: Tu Haiyin , Zhong Weiguo , Gu Yuandong , Zhou Wenli
Published: October 2024

Although prior research on the dark side of corporate political activity (CPA) has examined the negative impact of CPA on firms from the perspective of the macro cost of CPA (i.e., organizational loss) and the self‐interested motives of executives (i.e., personal gain), it has largely overlooked the negative repercussions of CPA for individuals intimately engaged in that process (i.e., personal loss). Drawing on the conservation of resources (COR) theory and focusing on Chief Executives Officers (CEOs) who engage in political networking (PN), we investigate how PN affects CEO burnout. We conceptualize PN as a form of relational exchanges between firms and political entities, positing that PN entails substantial resource depletion for those deeply involved, primarily due to significant ethical and moral challenges (i.e., identity threat). As PN intensifies, CEOs are compelled to allocate more time, effort and energy to navigate these escalating challenges, consequently exacerbating CEO burnout. Through the analysis of a 2‐year matched survey of CEOs and comprehensive archive data, we find robust support for our hypothesis. Furthermore, our findings suggest that CEO altruism and institutional knowledge weaken the relationship between PN and CEO burnout, indicating that individual intentions to benefit the collective and the ability to navigate such networking practices alter CEOs' perceived identity challenges. Our study contributes an individual‐level resource‐depletion perspective of CPA and cautions against the propensity of CEOs to engage in CPA driven by Machiavellian logic.
Nurse‐Led Physical Screening of Patients With Substance Use Disorders: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Middeldorp J. F. M. , Krijnen‐de Bruin E. , Buwalda V. J. A. , Goudriaan A. E. , van Meijel B.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Somatic comorbidity is the main cause of reduced life expectancy in patients with substance use disorders (SUDs).

Aim

This study aims to investigate somatic health challenges in patients with SUDs using the USS. Patient self‐management of somatic health and quality of life were also assessed.

Method

In our study, a stratified random sample of 136 clients who received treatment at a specialist addiction facility was drawn to investigate their physical health and lifestyle behaviours using the Utrecht Somatic Screening 2.0 (USS 2.0). The sample included three subgroups, that is, patients receiving outpatient treatment through Flexible Assertive Community Treatment (FACT), Heroin‐Assisted Treatment (HAT) and Opioid Replacement Therapy (ORT). Pain, self‐management and quality of life were also measured. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data.

Results

The findings indicate that many patients experience a large number of somatic health problems, including pain and exhaustion. The most prevalent conditions in this study are cardiovascular disease (25%) and COPD (20%), underweight and poor oral health. Tobacco smoking is prevalent among 88% of patients. Fifty percent of the patients expressed a need for support in managing their physical health.

Implications for Practice

Somatic health care and lifestyle promotion should be tailored to the specific characteristics of patients.

Conclusion

Patients with SUDs suffer from poor physical health and show unhealthy lifestyle behaviours, which demand the promotion of tailored somatic health.
PdbCRF5 Overexpression Negatively Regulates Salt Tolerance by Downregulating PdbbZIP61 to Mediate Reactive Oxygen Species Scavenging and ABA Synthesis in Populus davidiana × P. bolleana
Authors: Lei Xiaojin , Fang Jiaru , Zhang Ziqian , Li Zhengyang , Xu Yumeng , Xie Qingjun , Wang Yuanyuan , Liu Zhongyuan , Wang Yanmin , Gao Caiqiu
Published: October 2024

Salt stress is the main factor limiting the large‐scale cultivation of Shanxin poplar; therefore, improving its salt tolerance is crucial. In this study, we identified and characterized a CRF gene (PdbCRF5) in Shanxin poplar. Compared with the wild‐type poplar, the Shanxin poplar overexpressing PdbCRF5 were more sensitive to salt stress. The PdbCRF5‐silenced plants exhibited improved salt tolerance. ChIP‒PCR, EMSA, and Y1H confirmed that PdbCRF5 can regulate the expression of the PdbbZIP61 by binding to ABRE element. Further analysis revealed that the overexpression of PdbbZIP61 can reduce cell damage by increasing ROS scavenging, and on the other hand, overexpression of PdbbZIP61 can improve the salt tolerance of Shanxin poplar by regulating the expression of the PdbNCED genes to increase the ABA content. In addition, we also demonstrated that PdbCRF5 can inhibit the expression of the PdbbZIP61 in combination with PdbCRF6. The overexpression of PdbCRF6 also reduced the salt tolerance of Shanxin poplar. Therefore, we found that PdbCRF5 negatively regulates the salt tolerance of Shanxin poplar by inhibiting the PdbbZIP61, indicating that PdbCRF5 plays an important role in the tolerance of Shanxin poplar to salt stress and is an important candidate gene for gene editing and breeding in forest trees.
R&D investments in knowledge intensive sectors in developing countries and the role of host country political uncertainty
Authors: Sinani Evis , Dachs Bernhard , Hobdari Bersant , Papanastassiou Marina
Published: October 2024

Multinational enterprises (MNEs) persistently navigate environments characterized by political uncertainty. Yet, it is unclear how such uncertainty affects the location and sectoral spread of MNEs' overseas research and development (R&D) investments. This study delves into the influence of political uncertainty on R&D investments within knowledge‐intensive sectors, particularly in developing nations, thus enhancing our understanding of the contextual variables at play. Using a unique data set of MNE greenfield R&D global investment projects over the period 2003–2019, we show that political uncertainty has a negative effect on R&D capital investments. Additionally, we explore sector and host country location‐specific boundary conditions that moderate this relationship and find support for our hypotheses. Our findings show that MNE R&D investments in science‐based sectors (SBS) and knowledge‐intensive business services (KIBS) sectors in developing countries are less susceptible to political uncertainty compared to developed countries. Our results call for more attention from MNEs' managers and policymakers to political developments in their investing countries.
Political identity and risk politics: Evidence from a pandemic
Authors: Raile Eric D. , Haines Pavielle , Raile Amber N. W. , Shanahan Elizabeth A. , Parker David C. W.
Published: October 2024

The way political identity serves as a foundation for political polarization in the United States permits elites to extend conflict rapidly to new issue areas. Further, the types of cognitive mechanisms and shortcuts used in the politically polarized information environment are similar to some of those used in risk perception. Consequently, political elites may easily create partisan risk positions, largely through politically focused social amplification of risk. The COVID‐19 pandemic provided a natural experiment for testing predictions about such risk politics. We asked questions about pandemic‐related views, behaviors, and policies at the outset of the pandemic in April 2020 and again in September 2020 via public opinion surveys. Our data and analyses focus primarily on a single state, with some analysis extended to four states. We begin by demonstrating strong linkages between political partisan identification on the one hand and support for co‐partisan elites, use of partisan information sources, and support for co‐partisan policies on the other hand. We then find evidence that pandemic risk positions correspond with partisan information sources and find support for a mechanism involving partisan‐tinted evaluation of elite cues. Partisan risk positions quickly became part of the larger polarized structure of political support and views. Finally, our evidence shows on the balance that partisan risk positions related to the pandemic coalesced and strengthened over time. Overall, while self‐identified Democrats consistently viewed the coronavirus as the primary threat, self‐identified Republicans quickly pivoted toward threats to their freedoms and to the economy.
Enhancing Accuracy and Efficiency in Stiff ODE Integration Using Variable Step Diagonal BBDF Approaches
Authors: Ibrahim Zarina Bibi , Mohd Liam Hazizah , Aksah Saufianim Jana , Abd Rasid Norshakila
Published: October 2024

Recent advancements in mathematical modelling have uncovered a growing number of systems exhibiting stiffness, a phenomenon that challenges the effectiveness of traditional numerical methods. Motivated by the need for more robust numerical techniques to address this issue, this paper presents an enhanced version of the Diagonally Block Backward Differentiation Formula (BBDF) that incorporates intermediate points, known as off-step points, to improve the accuracy and efficiency of solutions for stiff ordinary differential equations (ODEs). The new scheme leverages an adaptive step-size strategy to refine accuracy and efficiency between regular and off-grid integration steps. Theoretical analysis confirms that the proposed scheme is an A-stable and convergent method, as it satisfies the fundamental criteria of consistency, zero-stability, and A-stability. Numerical experiments on single and multivariable systems across varying time scales demonstrate significant improvements in solving stiff ODEs compared to existing techniques. Therefore, the new proposed method is an effective solver for stiff ODEs.
Distribution and Abundance of Wildlife Roadkills in Jengka, Pahang, Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Hamzah Nur Ezzaty Farhana , Shahrum Nizam Khairunnisa , Zainol Nabilah , Ahmad Ghulamuddin Nurul Jannah , Farinordin Farah Ayuni , Zainul Abidin Mohammad Kamaruddin , Ismail Nor Azliza , Mohd Izam Nur Amalina
Published: October 2024

Malaysia's growing transportation network has increased human impact on wildlife habitats, causing a rise in roadkill cases. This study aims to assess the distribution and abundance of roadkill in Jengka, Pahang. Surveys along selected roads for ten days in March 2022 recorded 72 incidents (0.36 roadkill km-1). The water monitor (Varanus salvator) was the most frequently recorded species with 12 incidents, while the least frequently recorded species, each with 1 incident, included the monocled cobra (Naja kaouthia) and the house rat (Rattus rattus). Species of particular concern based on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List Categories included the long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis) (Endangered), clouded monitor lizard (Varanus nebulosus) (Near Threatened), and Malayan flat-shelled turtle (Notochelys platynota) (Vulnerable). Main Federal Roads, particularly Jalan Bukit Tajau - Bandar Pusat Jengka (FT62) and Jalan Utama Jengka Utara/Selatan (FT83), had notable roadkill rates of 0.73 and 0.35 per kilometer, respectively. Jalan FELDA 25 (FT1553), linking Bandar Tun Abdul Razak to Jerantut and Kuala Krau, recorded the highest rate at 0.78 roadkill per kilometer, highlighting the need for attention. Proposed actions include wildlife crossings, wildlife warning reflectors and wildlife warning signs in hotspots, and table drains alongside roads. It is also essential to educate drivers on the importance of reducing speed, especially in wildlife crossing zones, to minimize incidents. These findings stress the importance of proactive measures in reducing roadkill and safeguarding wildlife in Jengka, urging collaborative efforts to enhance road safety for both humans and animals.
Autonomous nervous system responses to environmental‐level exposure to 5G's first deployed band (3.5 GHz) in healthy human volunteers
Authors: Jamal Layla , Michelant Lisa , Delanaud Stéphane , Hugueville Laurent , Mazet Paul , Lévêque Philippe , Baz Tamara , Bach Véronique , Selmaoui Brahim
Published: October 2024

Following the global progressive deployment of 5G networks, considerable attention has focused on assessing their potential impact on human health. This study aims to investigate autonomous nervous system changes by exploring skin temperature and electrodermal activity (EDA) among 44 healthy young individuals of both sexes during and after exposure to 3.5 GHz antenna‐emitted signals, with an electrical field intensity ranging from 1 to 2 V/m. The study employed a randomized, cross‐over design with triple‐blinding, encompassing both ‘real’ and ‘sham’ exposure sessions, separated by a maximum interval of 1 week. Each session comprised baseline, exposure and postexposure phases, resulting in the acquisition of seven runs. Each run initiated with a 150 s segment of EDA recordings stimulated by 10 repeated beeps. Subsequently, the collected data underwent continuous decomposition analysis, generating specific indicators assessed alongside standard metrics such as trough‐to‐peak measurements, global skin conductance and maximum positive peak deflection. Additionally, non‐invasive, real‐time skin temperature measurements were conducted to evaluate specific anatomical points (hand, head and neck). The study suggests that exposure to 3.5 GHz signals may potentially affect head and neck temperature, indicating a slight increase in this parameter. Furthermore, there was a minimal modulation of certain electrodermal metrics after the exposure, suggesting a potentially faster physiological response to auditory stimulation. However, while the results are significant, they remain within the normal physiological range and could be a consequence of an uncontrolled variable. Given the preliminary nature of this pilot study, further research is needed to confirm the effects of 5G exposure.
Stage-Wise Kinetic Analysis of Ammonia Addition Effects on Two-Stage Ignition in Dimethyl Ether
Authors: Ou Juan , Yang Ruomiao , Yan Yuchao , Xie Tianfang , Liu Zhentao , Liu Jinlong
Published: October 2024

Ammonia (NH3) has gained considerable attention as a promising carbon-free hydrogen carrier fuel for internal combustion engines, but its direct use in compression-ignition engines presents challenges, often requiring high-reactivity fuels to ignite the premixed NH3/air mixture and initiate combustion. This study focuses on the ignition process of binary NH3 and dimethyl ether (DME) mixtures, as DME is a carbon-neutral, high-reactivity fuel. A key novelty of this paper is the comparison of the ignition processes of DME and NH3/DME mixtures from a temporal, process-oriented perspective, analyzing chemical kinetics across distinct ignition phases rather than focusing solely on instantaneous reactions at discrete time points. The stage-wise analysis reveals that NH3 has minimal impact on the control mechanism governing the two-stage ignition process of DME. Specifically, DME still largely depends on OH radical proliferation during low-temperature oxidation (LTO), which releases heat as the reaction progresses. As the temperature increases, LTO branching pathways gradually shift to chain-propagation pathways, reducing overall reaction activity. The reactivity and temperature rise rate of the system are then governed by the H2O2 loop mechanism before thermal ignition. However, ammonia significantly extends the ignition delay of DME by competing with OH radicals, which are critical for DME oxidation, thus inhibiting ignition. As the ignition reaction proceeds, ammonia kinetics become more involved. For example, nitrogen-containing species from NH3 oxidation, such as NO, NO2, and NH2, react with CH3OCH2 to form CH3OCHO, reducing the flux through the LTO pathway of DME. While ammonia reaction pathways also produce OH radicals, this occurs at the expense of HO2 and H radicals, leading to H2O2 formation. Overall, these findings demonstrate the substantial impact of ammonia addition on DME ignition, highlighting the need for further research to better understand NH3/DME binary fuel ignition and to optimize the design and operation of NH3/DME dual-fuel engines for improved efficiency and reliability.
Short-term noise annoyance towards drones and other transportation noise sources: A laboratory study
Authors: Kawai Claudia , Jäggi Jonas , Georgiou Fotis , Meister Jonas , Pieren Reto , Schäffer Beat
Published: October 2024

Noise from unmanned aerial vehicles, commonly referred to as “drones,” will likely shape our acoustic environment in the near future. Yet, reactions of the population to this new noise source are still little explored. The objective of this study was to investigate short-term noise annoyance reactions to drones in a controlled laboratory experiment. Annoyance to (i) two quadcopters of different sizes in relation to common contemporary transportation noise sources (jet aircraft, propeller aircraft, helicopters, single car passbys), and (ii) different drone maneuvers (takeoff; landing; high, medium, and low flybys) flown at different speeds and elevations was systematically assessed. The results revealed that, at the same sound exposure level, drones are perceived as substantially more annoying than other airborne vehicles and passenger cars. Furthermore, for drone maneuvers, landings, and takeoffs are more annoying than flybys, as are maneuvers flown at low speed. Different loudness metrics (LAE, LDE, effective perceived noise level, psychoacoustic loudness level) accounted for drone noise annoyance ratings to an equal degree. An analysis of psychoacoustic parameters highlighted the significant link between drone noise annoyance and tonality, sharpness, and loudness level. The results suggest a different perception and an increased annoyance potential of drones, which will likely require specifically tailored legislation.
Matched power-frequency–modulated signal transform and its application in bat call signal analysis
Authors: Zhang Liang , Du Qinglei , Chen Hui
Published: October 2024

Bat call signal analysis is an important research topic, which is meaningful for bat species identification, and the design of various biomimetic systems. In addition to the commonly used methods in the time-frequency domain, the fractional Fourier transform (FRFT) is a valuable signal processing tool, as it is a generalization of the Fourier transform. However, the FRFT is constrained to the analysis of the linear frequency modulated–like bat call signal, while the modulation of the harmonics in a bat call is often nonlinear. For this reason, this paper proposes an integral transform, named matched power-frequency–modulated (PFM) signal transform (MPST), which is also the generalization of the Fourier transform, more precisely, a time-warping Fourier transform. As with the limitation of FRFT, the MPST is constrained to the analysis of the PFM-like bat call with the instantaneous frequency defined as an approximate power function abut time, in which the power can be an arbitrary positive integer or a fraction. The applications of MPST on the PFM-modeled bat call analysis are mainly parameter estimation and harmonic separation, and the performance is fully validated using the recordings of the feeding buzzes, social calls, and distress calls from the European bats.
Boundary conditions alter density and stress fluctuations in shear-thickening suspensions
Authors: Hu Meng-Fei , Zhao Song-Chuan
Published: October 2024

Discontinuous shear thickening in dense suspensions is accompanied by significant fluctuations in stress at a fixed shear rate. In this work, normal stress fluctuations are shown to have a one-to-one relationship with the formation and dissolution of local high-density regions. Namely, a burst in the force response corresponds to the spontaneous appearance of inhomogeneity. We observe that boundary conditions can significantly alter the spatiotemporal scale of these fluctuations, from short-lived to more sustained and enduring patterns. We estimate the occurrence frequency R and the average intensity Q of individual bursts/inhomogeneity events. The growth of R with the shear rate is the most rapid for the rigid boundary, whereas Q is nonmonotonic with confinement stiffness. Our results indicate that boundary conditions alter the development of inhomogeneity and thus the stress response under shear.
Random Lasing under Dissipative Tunneling Conditions in a Network Quantum Material
Authors: Tsarev D. V. , Morugin E. S. , Alodjants A. P.
Published: October 2024

A new mechanism of the generation of a random laser based on a random photonic network with dissipative tunneling of photons between microcavities that are placed at the nodes of such network and contain identical two-level quantum systems has been revealed. It has been shown that an additional source of photon losses in tunneling promotes the separation of individual modes of the random laser and the achievement of the lasing threshold even at a vanishingly small population inversion. In this case, the enhancement of laser modes has an interference nature and is due to the energy redistribution between the nodes of the photonic network that correspond to different signs of the frequency detuning of stationary modes of the random laser from the transition frequency of two-level systems. It has been shown that the traditional lasing mechanism, which demonstrates features of the spectrum of single microcavities, i.e., is almost independent of the topological properties of the network and the tunneling parameter, is present in the region of zero detuning.
Self-Trapping of a Laser Beam of Ultrarelativistic Intensities
Authors: Bychenkov V. Yu. , Kovalev V. F.
Published: October 2024

Since a theory that can justify the condition of matching of the laser and plasma parameters to implement the relativistic self-trapping regime for laser light in a plasma, which is the most efficient for the acceleration of electrons, is still absent, doubts remain in the necessity of the corresponding extensive experimental studies, particularly in view of the lack of justification or completion of previous theories. The presented theoretical analytical approach, which includes the relativistic nonlinearity of the electron mass and electron cavitation in the plasma, allows one to overcome this problem and provides an analytical justification of the conditions of such matching for ultrarelativistic laser beams at the quantitative level, which is in agreement with the multidimensional numerical simulation.
Evaluation of a distribution, education and awareness intervention for child passenger safety in Lebanon: a low-income and middle-income country setting
Authors: Price Michelle , Shebbo Fadia M. , Mroueh Salman , Brown Rebeccah L , Al-Hajj Samar
Published: October 2024

Background

The Eastern Mediterranean Region suffers disproportionately from paediatric traffic-related injuries. Despite governmental laws, Lebanon—an eastern Mediterranean country—has low child restraint (CR) use prevalence. This study examined the impact of using car seat distribution, and child passenger safety education and awareness intervention to improve child passenger safety knowledge and practices among caregivers.

Methods

This study recruited Lebanese caregivers with one child or more, using a 4-wheel motor vehicle, and not using a car seat. The intervention comprised an educational session followed by a car seat or booster seat distribution and installation check by a certified child passenger safety technician. A baseline assessment questionnaire was used to identify reasons for prior CR non-use. A child passenger safety knowledge test was administered before, immediately after and 3 months postintervention to assess child passenger safety knowledge retention and compare it to the baseline using the conditional logit model for pre–post interventions.

Results

Fifty-eight participants underwent the intervention. Affordability was identified as the primary reason for car seat non-use. Three months after the intervention, compliance with CRs use was reported at 100%, and correct responses on the knowledge test significantly increased (p<0.05) for all items except for harness tightness (p=0.673).

Conclusion

Our child passenger safety intervention resulted in improved knowledge and increased self-reported use of CRs in a caregivers’ cohort in Lebanon. Further efforts should address sociocultural and economic barriers and the lack of local child passenger safety technicians to mitigate the region’s paediatric road traffic injury and death toll.
A novel efficient analytical technique and its application to fractional Cauchy reaction–diffusion equations
Authors: Singh Jagdev , Gupta Arpita , Baleanu Dumitru
Published: October 2024

In this research paper, we suggest a novel analytical method to obtain the approximate solutions of linear and nonlinear differential equations of arbitrary order. The proposed technique is a good combination of Kharrat–Toma transform and q-homotopy analysis method. Additionally, we also find out the solution of Cauchy reaction–diffusion equation associated with regularized version of Hilfer–Prabhakar fractional derivative. The Cauchy reaction–diffusion equation is broadly used to describe the dynamical processes in physics, geology, biology, ecology, etc. Some characteristic properties of the considered model and existence as well as the uniqueness of the solutions are also discussed. The outcomes of the considered model are exhibited graphically to show the accuracy and efficiency of the suggested method.
Antimicrobial Potential of Probiotic Strains From Bulgarian Cheese and Shallot Yogurt Against Staphylococcus saprophyticus
Authors: Amigh Pardis , Ahmadi Yasaman , Mohkam Milad , Shokri Dariush
Published: October 2024

The escalating incidence of hospital infections due to antibiotic resistance necessitates the identification of alternative therapeutic agents such as probiotics. This study was designed to isolate and evaluate the efficacy of probiotics against Staphylococcus saprophyticus, a prevalent etiological agent of urinary tract infections (UTIs). A total of 100 S. saprophyticus strains were isolated from clinical samples and subjected to antibiotic susceptibility testing via the disc diffusion method. Concurrently, probiotic bacteria were isolated from Bulgarian cheese and shallot yogurt, and their antibacterial activity against S. saprophyticus strains was assessed. The inhibitory potential of probiotic supernatants was evaluated using microtiter plate assays, with the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) determined at a 1/2 dilution. Cytotoxicity was evaluated using the MTT assay, and high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was employed to analyze the concentrations of organic acids produced by the probiotics. The results revealed that all S. saprophyticus strains were resistant to tetracycline and doxycycline but susceptible to other antibiotics. Lactobacillus rhamnosus strains M and B demonstrated notable antibacterial and antibiofilm activity against S. saprophyticus isolates. These probiotics exhibited susceptibility to most antibiotics and lacked virulence factors, suggesting their safety for therapeutic use. The organic acids produced by the probiotics were identified as lactic acid, acetic acid, and formic acid. In conclusion, L. rhamnosus strains M and B exhibit potent antimicrobial properties against S. saprophyticus, indicating their potential as therapeutic agents for UTIs. Further research is warranted to validate these findings and explore the possibility of these probiotics in clinical applications.
Validation Strategy for Pulmonary Vein Isolation in Patients With Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation in Long‐Term Maintaining Sinus Rhythm: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Li Xinyu , Yu Houdeng , Lai Shihuang , Liao Yaqi , Yang Yihong , Tian Kejun , Zhong Yiming , Chen Xinguang
Published: October 2024

Background: Data comparing the outcomes of loose versus rigorous validation strategies for pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) in patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) are limited. We aimed to prospectively assess the effectiveness of loose versus rigorous validation for PVI in patients with PAF with a maintained sinus rhythm.

Methods: Patients (n = 117) with PAF were randomized to receive either loose validation (n = 59) or rigorous validation (n = 58) after PVI. The presence of dormant conduction in loose validation was assessed only by adenosine administration followed by isoproterenol infusion. The complete absence of pulmonary vein (PV) potentials in rigorous validation was confirmed by the combination of the Lasso catheter with isoproterenol plus adenosine. Dormant conduction, revealed by validation after PVI, was ablated until all reconnections were eliminated.

Results: The procedure time in the rigorous validation group was greater than that in the loose validation group (161.3 ± 52.7 min vs. 142.5 ± 37.6 min, p = 0.03, respectively). After successful PVI, the detection of dormant PV reconnections in the rigorous validation group was significantly greater than that in the loose validation group (69.0% vs. 37.3%, p = 0.001). However, after reisolation of the sites of dormant PV conduction, the postablation recurrence rates in 1.3 years were similar between the groups (79.2% vs. 83.6%, p = 0.67).

Conclusion: Rigorous validation can reveal dormant conduction in more than two‐thirds of patients with PAF undergoing PVI. However, rigorous validation and additional ablation of the resulting connections do not improve long‐term outcomes when a protocol that includes electrophysiological confirmation and pharmacological validation is used.
The Potential of Gingival Crevicular Fluid as a Tool for Molecular Diagnosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Cuevas-González María Verónica , Cuevas-González Juan Carlos , Espinosa-Cristóbal León Francisco , Tovar-Carrillo Karla Lizette , Saucedo-Acuña Rosa Alicia , García-Calderón Alma Graciela , Reyes-López Simón Yobanny , Zambrano-Galván Graciela
Published: October 2024

A biomarker is defined as a characteristic that is measured as an indicator of a normal biological or pathological process, a response to an exposure or intervention. Biomarkers with a diagnostic approach must identify not only the presence but also the absence of the disease with high precision, so having the biological source of the said marker is of vital importance to ensure precision and accuracy; the aim was to carry out a review of its diagnostic potential. The search strategy was carried out in three databases: PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Scopus. The keywords that were used were as follows: “gingival crevicular fluid”, “Biomarker”, and “Diagnosis”, using the Boolean operator “AND”. The filter was used at 10 years. Within the type of molecules most studied, the cytokine family was the most abundant with 25.42% of the studies, followed by metalloproteinases and proteins with 16.9% each one. Studies that included RNA‐type genetic material were less frequently found. As has been demonstrated, the use of GCF as a source of biomolecules for diagnostic use has been increasing, both for oral diseases, which reflects the local conditions of the disease; it also has the ability to reflect the development of distant diseases; and this is because GCF is a blood ultrafiltrate.
Intention to Purchase Foods Based on Insects, Arachnids, and Arthropods, Processed by 3D Printing in Panama Consumers
Authors: González-Guzmán Marcos E. , Del-Aguila-Arcentales Shyla , Alvarez-Risco Aldo , Rojas-Osorio Mercedes , Yáñez Jaime A.
Published: October 2024

Currently, food access has worsened during the COVID‐19 pandemic. For this reason, various alternatives are required to improve the population’s diet. Among the many alternatives is the use of 3D printing technology to reproduce food that can reach the most vulnerable population. This remarkable study shows future generations the importance of seeking innovative food that guarantees a nutritious and accessible diet. The study focuses on the Panamanian population to determine which variables influence the decision to consume innovative foods. The innovative product to be tested is based on insects, arachnids, and arthropods, which may be difficult for the population to consume, but thanks to 3D printing technologies, it is possible to generate foods based on these raw materials that look like traditional foods. Likewise, processing these foods generates less water consumption, giving them an ecological attribute. The present study seeks to know the variables that determine the purchase intention of consumers in Panama regarding the food supply based on insects, arachnids, and arthropods that are transformed into traditional food formats using 3D printers. This information can help companies prepare food offers to consumers in Panama.
Impact of Human Activities on Woody Vegetation in Gallery Forests in the Mandara Mountains (Far North, Cameroon)
Authors: Fanday Hinémé , Tchobsala
Published: October 2024

This study was conducted in the Mandara Mountains in Cameroon and aimed to assess the effects of human activities on woody vegetation in gallery forests, based on floristic inventories and observations made by the government. Firstly, the inventories were carried out in 150 plots of 1000 m2 each, installed on the banks of watercourses following the band of plant formations. In each plot, woody species were counted and those showing at least one sign of degradation were noted. Secondly, the survey was conducted in 18 administrative structures made up of delegations (MINFOF, MINADER, MINEPDED, and MINEPIA) and town halls. One hundred woody species, grouped into 63 genera and 30 families, have been inventoried, in which 45 species showed at least one sign of damage caused by human being. The species most affected are Anogeissus leiocarpus (67 stems), Azadirachta indica (46 stems), Diospyros mespiliformis (43 stems), Acacia albida (42 stems), Andira inermis (30 stems), Acacia sieberiana (23 stems), Khaya senegalensis (19 stems), Ficus sycomorus (13 stems), and Acacia polyacantha (10 stems). The most recurrent activity in the gallery forests is pruning (212 stems), followed by cutting (93 stumps), then picking (71 individuals). However, there are fewer debarked trees (11) and trees with fire trail (6). According to the responses provided, logging (77.78%), agriculture (72.22%), population growth (44.44%), grazing (33.33%), and bush fires (33.33%) are the main causes of the degradation of plant formations in the Mandara Mountains. These main factors could have a negative impact on biodiversity if appropriate integrated management measures are not taken. To maintain these vital ecosystems, an integrated management plan must be put in place, limiting human activities to a minimum.
Supplementary Table from An Alternatively Spliced Gain-of-Function NT5C2 Isoform Contributes to Chemoresistance in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Torres-Diz Manuel , Reglero Clara , Falkenstein Catherine D. , Castro Annette , Hayer Katharina E. , Radens Caleb M. , Quesnel-Vallières Mathieu , Ang Zhiwei , Sehgal Priyanka , Li Marilyn M. , Barash Yoseph , Tasian Sarah K. , Ferrando Adolfo , Thomas-Tikhonenko Andrei
Published: October 2024

Supplementary Table S1
Supplementary Figure S4 from Targeting the Sodium–Potassium Pump as a Therapeutic Strategy in Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Schneider Constanze , Spaink Hermes , Alexe Gabriela , Dharia Neekesh V. , Meyer Ashleigh , Merickel Lucy A. , Khalid Delan , Scheich Sebastian , Häupl Björn , Staudt Louis M. , Oellerich Thomas , Stegmaier Kimberly
Published: October 2024

NB4_BioID results
Supplementary Figure S4 from Single-Stranded DNA Gap Accumulation Is a Functional Biomarker for USP1 Inhibitor Sensitivity
Authors: da Costa Alexandre A. , Somuncu Ozge , Ravindranathan Ramya , Mukkavalli Sirisha , Martignetti David B. , Nguyen Huy , Jiao Yuqing , Lamarre Benjamin P. , Sadatrezaei Golbahar , Moreau Lisa , Liu Joyce , Iyer Divya R. , Lazaro Jean-Bernard , Shapiro Geoffrey I. , Parmar Kalindi , D’Andrea Alan D.
Published: October 2024

Supplementary Figure S4. USP1 inhibitor and a PARP inhibitor combination treatment is well tolerated in mice