bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining The Effects of Carbon Dioxide Emissions on Human Brain Activity Using Agent-Based Modeling
Authors: Alqarni Areej , Almarwaey Alyaa
Published: March 2024

The escalating levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) due to anthropogenic activities have raised significant concerns regarding their far-reaching consequences, including potential impacts on human brain function. This study employs Agent-Based Modeling (ABM) and a comprehensive literature review to comprehensively examine the effects of varying atmospheric CO2 concentrations on human brain activity. Historical and projected CO2concentration data, along with neuroscientific insights, were integrated into the ABM framework to simulate brain activity responses under different CO2 scenarios. The simulations revealed that elevated CO2 levels disrupt neural activity and alter neurotransmitter profiles, indicating potential cognitive consequences. Sensitivity analysis emphasized the importance of accurate parameterization for robust simulations. The findings underscore the urgent need to address global CO2 emissions to preserve cognitive health. Further research is essential to validate and refine the model, incorporating additional factors for a comprehensive understanding of the cognitive repercussions of rising CO2 levels, crucial for informed policy-making and public awareness campaigns.
Exploring the Anti-inflammatory Potential of Mangrove Flora: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Rahman Shahinur
Published: March 2024

The review explores the therapeutic potential of mangrove plants as sources of bioactive compounds, particularly focusing on their anti-inflammatory properties. Mangroves, found in tropical and sub-tropical tidal coasts, exhibit unique ecological and biological activities. The review compiles and examines 136 research findings published between 1982 and 2018, with 41 studies specifically addressing the anti-inflammatory properties of mangroves in Indian coastal regions, including the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It summarizes the chemical structures, molecular weights, formulas, solvents, and biological activities of these mangroves, as reported by various researchers over time. The data underscore the significant potential of tropical Indian mangroves in anti-inflammatory applications. However, a notable research gap exists regarding the extraction of bioactive compounds from mangrove species in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands compared to other regions such as Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, West Bengal, and Puducherry. Overall, the compilation provides valuable insights into mangrove-based studies for drug discovery research, emphasizing the need for further exploration and exploitation of these natural resources.
Unexpected Uncertainty Principle for Disc Banach Spaces
Authors: KRISHNA K. MAHESH
Published: March 2024

Let $(\{f_n\}_{n=1}^\infty, \{\tau_n\}_{n=1}^\infty)$ and $(\{g_n\}_{n=1}^\infty, \{\omega_n\}_{n=1}^\infty)$ be unbounded continuous p-Schauder frames ($0<p<1$) for a disc Banach space $\mathcal{X}$. Then for every $x \in ( \mathcal{D}(\theta_f) \cap\mathcal{D}(\theta_g))\setminus\{0\}$, we show that \begin{align}\label{UB} \|\theta_f x\|_0\|\theta_g x\|_0 \geq \frac{1}{\left(\displaystyle\sup_{n,m \in \mathbb{N} }|f_n(\omega_m)|\right)^p\left(\displaystyle\sup_{n, m \in \mathbb{N}}|g_m(\tau_n)|\right)^p}, \end{align} where \begin{align*} & \theta_f: \mathcal{D}(\theta_f) \ni x \mapsto \theta_fx \coloneqq \{f_n(x)\}_{n=1}^\infty\in \ell^p(\mathbb{N}), \quad \theta_g: \mathcal{D}(\theta_g) \ni x \mapsto \theta_gx \coloneqq \{g_n(x)\}_{n=1}^\infty\in \ell^p(\mathbb{N}). \end{align*} Inequality (1) is unexpectedly different from both bounded uncertainty principle \textit{[arXiv:2308.00312v1]} and unbounded uncertainty principle \textit{[arXiv:2312.00366v1]} for Banach spaces.
Crack Detection in Orthographic Road Images Based on EC-YOLOX Algorithm
Authors: Sun Lishuang , Liu Zeyu , Xie Zhiwei
Published: March 2024

Pavement crack detection is one of the key links in highway pavement maintenance management. In the current road crack detection, the network model easily ignores the shallow geometric features of cracks and cannot extract the key feature information of cracks. Aiming at the above problems, an EC-YOLOX network model is proposed. The CFPN is constructed to cross-fuse different scale features to solve the feature scale invariance. In the strengthen feature extraction layer, ECANet is fused to enhance the ability to pay attention to key information. The WEIoU loss function is proposed, which assigns different penalty terms to the target box in the vertical and horizontal directions. In terms of data, geometric distortion constraint correction is performed on the single-point perspective pavement image. The experimental data show that the accuracy of EC-YOLOX on the self-built data set reaches 76.34% mAP@0.5, which is 4.45% higher than that of YOLOX. The loss curve of EC-YOLOX is smoother than that of YOLOX, and the minimum training loss value is 2.136, which is 0.648 lower than the minimum loss value 2.784 of YOLOX. Many experiments have verified the effectiveness of EC-YOLOX in improving the detection effect in pavement crack detection.
The Generating Functions and Goldbach Conjecture
Authors: Yang Hui
Published: March 2024

It is proved that there exist two odd prime numbers, pi and pj , such that pi + pj = 2r + 2(r ⩾ 2), where pn denote the n-th odd prime number, 1 ⩽ i, j ⩽ n. By the theory of generating functions, we prove that there exist two positive integers, hi and hj , such that hi + hj = r(r ⩾ 2), where hn = (pn − 1)/2，(pn ⩾ 3).Then we complete the proof.
Five-year experience of express testing of the population of the Samara Region for hepatitis C and B virus infection using a mobile laboratory
Authors:   Medical Company “Hepatolog”, LLC, Samara, Russian Federation, Morozov V.G. , Malova E.S. ,   Medical Company “Hepatolog”, LLC, Samara, Russian Federation, Rybkina A.A. ,   Medical Company “Hepatolog”, LLC, Samara, Russian Federation, Tkachenko P.E. ,   I.M.Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation, Kalyshenko A.M. ,   Samara Regional Clinical Center for AIDS Prevention and Control, Samara, Russian Federation, Paydulova A.I. ,   Medical Company “Hepatolog”, LLC, Samara, Russian Federation, Lovyagina A.V. ,   Medical Company “Hepatolog”, LLC, Samara, Russian Federation
Published: March 2024

Objective. To determine the proportion of the population of the Samara Region that has antibodies to hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface antigen. Materials and methods. The survey was conducted by a mobile laboratory in public places, mass gatherings, etc. Blood samples were analyzed using immunochromatographic assay systems for the qualitative determination of antibodies to HCV, HBsAg, and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) supplied by Abon Biopharm (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd, PRC, HangZhou Biotest Biotech Co. Ltd, China and Factor-Med-Production Ltd. Questionnaires were completed on the presence or absence of risk factors for infection. Results. From July 2019 to September 2023, 84 visits were conducted. A total of 3058 people were examined, all were tested for HCV antibodies, 1374 – for HBsAg and 50 – for AFR level; 3044 self-assessment questionnaires for the presence/absence of risk factors were analyzed. The frequency of HCV antibody detection was 5.9% in 2019, 2.9% in 2020, 4.8% in 2021,5.1% in 2022, and 3.9% in 2023. The highest percentage of individuals with HCV antibodies was found in the group of men aged 36–50 years – 16.3%. The frequency of HBsAg detection was 1.1% in 2021 and 0.5% in 2022. The level of AFP was determined in 50 persons who had markers of viral hepatitis; 4 persons were found to have an elevated AFP level (8%). Injecting drug use was significantly more frequently reported as a risk factor for infection in 2019, 2022, and 2023; medical manipulation in 2020 and 2023, while tattooing and piercings in 2021. Key words: chronic hepatitis C, chronic hepatitis B, mobile laboratory, testing, risk factors, elimination, alpha-fetoprotein
Comparison of mortality in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 depending on the presence or lack of history of vaccination
Authors:   I.P.Pavlov Ryazan State Medical University, Ryazan, Russian Federation, Karaseva E.A. , Martynov V.A. ,   I.P.Pavlov Ryazan State Medical University, Ryazan, Russian Federation, Ageeva K.A. ,   I.P.Pavlov Ryazan State Medical University, Ryazan, Russian Federation, Maukayeva S.B. ,   Semey Medical University, Non-Commercial Joint-Stock Company, Semey, Republic of Kazakhstan, Romashkina A.S. ,   I.P.Pavlov Ryazan State Medical University, Ryazan, Russian Federation, Karimova S.S. ,   Semey Medical University, Non-Commercial Joint-Stock Company, Semey, Republic of Kazakhstan
Published: March 2024

The coronavirus infection (COVID-19) is quite effectively contained by vaccination campaigns. However, in a number of patients, despite a history of vaccination, COVID-19 develops, requiring hospitalization and ending in death. Objectives. To study the differences in mortality and the course of a new coronavirus infection among patients hospitalized in hospitals in the city of Ryazan (Russian Federation) and Semey and Pavlodar (Republic of Kazakhstan). We determined mortality among hospitalized patients with a new coronavirus infection with and without vaccine status according to anamnestic data. And also compared the need for invasive oxygen support, laboratory data (СВС, CRP, ferritin, D-dimer) and the degree of lung damage according to CT at the time of admission. Results. There was no difference in the level of mortality depending on the presence or absence of a vaccination history. Fatal outcomes in the vaccinated and unvaccinated groups were equally frequent in 15 of 193 patients and 16 of 196 patients, respectively, p = 0.887. At the same time, the unvaccinated more often needed more intensive oxygen support and had higher levels of ferritin 437 (148–646) μg/l versus 323 (142–498) μg/l, p = 0.021. Also, unvaccinated patients spent more time in the hospital 12 (9–18) days versus 11 (8–16) days, p = 0.044. In general, the deceased were older than 66 ± 12 (62–70) years, versus 57 ± 14 (55–58) years in survivors, м < 0.001. They also had a greater need for oxygen support, as well as statistically significant higher levels of CRP 99 (59–144) mg/l vs. 50 (16–87) mg/l, p < 0.001, D-dimer – 5020 (1125–8350) ng /ml vs. 805 (440–1805) ng /ml p = 0.003, ferritin 451 (344–583) μg/l vs. 338 (138–557) μg/l at the time of admission. Conclusions. Vaccination history does not affect mortality among hospitalized patients with COVID-19. In predicting the course of COVID-19 in hospitalized patients, even if there is a history of vaccination, one should rely on standard biochemical methods for determining the level of CRP, D-dimer, and ferritin. Key words: COVID-19, vaccination, ferritin, D-dimer, CRP, mortality assessment
A Study of Brain Tumor detection using MRI images
Authors: Kehar Asadullah , Mahar Mashooq Ali , Danwer Shahid Hussain , Parveen Sidra , Bhutto Mariya , Qutrio Zoya
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the advantages of an algorithm for detecting brain tumors using magnetic resonance imaging. The thematic analysis demonstrates how the algorithm can be understood and changed through narrative descriptions. The findings highlight areas for improvement, which aids in the direction of future research. Based on unexpected results, the algorithm was improved over time. Even though the study had some restrictions and limitations, this makes the algorithm a versatile tool for detecting brain tumors. This study is an important step toward better understanding algorithmic applications and demonstrates the significance of qualitative insights in shaping the future of brain tumor detection methods.
The Bioburden Associated with Severe Open Tibial Fracture Wounds at the Time of Definitive Closure or Coverage
Authors:   Major Extremity Trauma Research Consortium (METRC)
Published: March 2024

Background:

Infection is common following high-energy open tibial fractures. Understanding the wound bioburden may be critical to infection risk reduction strategies. This study was designed to identify the bioburden profile of high-energy open tibial fractures at the time of definitive wound closure or coverage and determine the relationship to subsequent deep infection.

Methods:

This multicenter prospective study enrolled 646 patients with high-energy open tibial fractures requiring a second debridement surgery and delayed wound closure or coverage. Wound samples were obtained at the time of definitive closure or coverage and were cultured in a central laboratory. Cultures were also subsequently obtained from patients who underwent a fracture-site reoperation.

Results:

Two hundred and six (32%) of the wounds had a positive culture at the time of closure or coverage. A single genus was identified in 154 (75%) of these positive cultures and multiple genera, in 52 (25%). Gram-positive cocci (GPCs) were identified in 98 (47%) of the positive cultures. Staphylococci were identified in 64 (31%) of the cultures, and 53 (83%) of these were coagulase-negative (CONS). Enterococci were identified in 26 (13%) of the cultures. Gram-negative rods (GNRs) were identified in 100 (49%) of the cultures; the most frequent GNR genera identified were Enterobacter (39, 19%) and Pseudomonas (21, 10%). Positive cultures were subsequently obtained from 154 (50%) of 310 revision surgeries. A single genus was identified in 85 (55%) of the 154 and multiple genera, in 69. GPCs were identified in 134 (87%) of the 154 positive cultures, staphylococci were identified in 94 (61%), and GNRs were identified in 100 (65%).

Conclusions:

The bioburden in high-energy open tibial fractures at delayed closure or coverage was often characterized by pathogens of multiple genera and of genera that are nonresponsive to typically employed antibiotic prophylaxis. Awareness of the final wound bioburden might inform strategies to lower the infection rate.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level II. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Incidence of Nerve Palsies During Pavlik Harness Treatment for Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip
Authors: Gross Preston W. , Chipman Danielle E. , Nagra Kiranpreet , Tracey Olivia C. , Jones Ruth H. , Blanco John S. , Sink Ernest L. , Scher David M. , Dodwell Emily R. , Doyle Shevaun M.
Published: March 2024

Background:

The Pavlik harness has been used for approximately a century to treat developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH). Femoral nerve palsy is a documented complication of Pavlik harness use, with an incidence ranging from 2.5% to 11.2%. Rare reports of brachial plexus palsy have also been documented. The primary purpose of the current study was to evaluate the incidence of various nerve palsies in patients undergoing Pavlik harness treatment for DDH. Secondary aims were to identify patient demographic or hip characteristics associated with nerve palsy.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective review of patients diagnosed with DDH and treated with a Pavlik harness from February 1, 2016, to April 1, 2023, at a single tertiary care orthopaedic hospital. Hip laterality, use of a subsequent rigid abduction orthosis, birth order, breech positioning, weight, and family history were collected. The median (and interquartile range [IQR]) or mean (and standard deviation [SD]) were reported for all continuous variables. Independent 2-sample t tests and Mann-Whitney U tests were conducted to identify associations between the variables collected at the initiation of Pavlik harness treatment and the occurrence of nerve palsy.

Results:

Three hundred and fifty-one patients (547 hips) were included. Twenty-two cases of femoral nerve palsy (4% of all treated hips), 1 case of inferior gluteal nerve palsy (0.18%), and 2 cases of brachial plexus palsy (0.37%) were diagnosed. Patients with nerve palsy had more severe DDH as measured by the Graf classification (p < 0.001) and more severe DDH as measured on physical examination via the Barlow and Ortolani maneuvers (p = 0.003).

Conclusions:

Nerve palsies were associated with more severe DDH at the initiation of Pavlik harness use. Upper and lower-extremity neurological status should be scrutinized at initiation and throughout treatment to assess for nerve palsies. The potential for femoral, gluteal, and brachial plexus palsies should be included in the discussion of risks at the beginning of treatment. Families may be reassured that nerve palsies associated with Pavlik harness can be expected to resolve with a short break from treatment.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
The Direct Superior Approach in Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: van Dooren Bart , Peters Rinne M. , van der Wal-Oost Alies M. , Stevens Martin , Jutte Paul C. , Zijlstra Wierd P.
Published: March 2024

Background:

Evolution of the surgical approach for total hip arthroplasty (THA) has led to the development of the minimally invasive direct superior approach (DSA). It is hypothesized that the DSA reduces postoperative pain and hospital length of stay (LOS). We aimed to provide an overview of current evidence on clinical, functional, and radiological outcomes with respect to risk of revision, complications, pain scores, physical function, operative time, LOS, blood loss, radiological outcomes, and learning curve.

Methods:

A comprehensive search of Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Google Scholar, reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses literature search extension guidelines, was conducted to identify studies evaluating clinical, functional, and radiological outcomes of the DSA. Quality assessment was performed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. The review protocol was prospectively registered in the International Prospective Registry of Systematic Reviews.

Results:

Seventeen studies were included, generally of moderate quality. Qualitative synthesis evidenced accurate implant positioning, short LOS, and a short learning curve. Conflicting findings were reported for postoperative complications compared with conventional approaches. Better functional outcomes were seen in the early postoperative period than the posterolateral approach (PLA). Outcomes such as blood loss and operative time exhibited conflicting results and considerable heterogeneity.

Conclusion:

Based on moderate-certainty evidence, it is uncertain if the DSA provides short-term advantages over conventional approaches such as PLA. There is limited evidence on long-term outcomes post-THA using the DSA. Further studies and ongoing registry monitoring is crucial for continuous evaluation of its long-term outcomes.

Level of Evidence:

Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
How Comprehensive and Efficient Are Patient-Reported Outcome Measures for Individuals with Lower Extremity Amputation Undergoing Implantation of Osseointegrated Bone Anchored Limbs?
Authors: Awad Mohamed E. , Melton Danielle , Shaw Kylie G. , Lev Guy , Gaffney Brecca M. M. , Christiansen Cory L. , Stoneback Jason W.
Published: March 2024

» Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are essential for measuring quality and functional outcomes after implantation of osseointegrated bone anchored limbs for patients with lower extremity amputation.

» Using a novel assessment criterion with 8 domains, this study assessed all commonly used PROMs for their efficiency and comprehensiveness.

» Comprehensiveness was scored according to the presence or absence of PROM questions related to these 8 domains (maximum score = 60): mobility (15 items), prosthesis (14 items), pain (10 items), psychosocial status (10 items), independence/self-care (4 items), quality of life/satisfaction (4 items), osseoperception (1 item), general information (1 item), and vitality (1 item).

» The efficiency scores were calculated by dividing the comprehensiveness score by the total number of questions answered by the patients with higher scores being deemed more efficient.

» The most comprehensive PROMs were Orthotics and Prosthetics User's Survey-Lower Extremity Functional Status (OPUS-LEFS) (score = 36), Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire (PEQ) (score = 31), and Questionnaire for Persons with a Transfemoral Amputation (score = 27).

» The most efficient PROMs were the OPUS-LEFS (score = 1.8) and European Quality of Life (score = 1.4).
Sub Distribution Panel’s Design Rancangan SubDistribution Panel
Authors: Nanggala Dikas Pandu , Ahfas Akhmad
Published: March 2024

Electrical panels play an important role as the center of electrical energy distribution, functioning to regulate the flow of electricity in a building. This distribution process requires something that can secure and divide the amount of power flowing, therefore the SDP (Sub Distribution Panel) panel is needed. This panel contains several components that are assembled into one unit so that it can function properly. This research uses a qualitative descriptive method that focuses on problems based on facts carried out by means of observation or observation, interviews, and studying documents. If all the techniques in this method are performed successfully, the accurate percentage of this research is 98%. This research produces a description of the process of making SDP panels from start to finish. This research resulted that the SDP panel has several functions, namely collecting and forwarding power to each load in each branch as needed, connecting and disconnecting the power distribution circuit and the safety of the power distribution system control.
Physical Simulation of Primary Production in Duvernay Shale – Impact of Thermal Maturity on Oil Production
Authors: Alinejad Amin , Dehghanpour Hassan
Published: March 2024

Most unconventional wells typically exhibit limited oil production during the primary production stage, primarily due to ultralow permeability of the rock matrix and immaturity of the organic matter. To understand the key factors responsible for this limitation and identify candidate sweet spots for drilling, we conduct physical simulations of the primary production stage in the laboratory. In this study, Duvernay shale samples undergo a single-cycle methane injection process to simulate the primary production stage. We utilize a visualization cell to explore oil-recovery mechanisms under representative reservoir conditions. We soak oil-saturated core plugs with methane at 4,150 psig and a reservoir temperature of 90°C to restore initial reservoir conditions. After equilibrium, we deplete the cell pressure at a controlled rate to simulate the primary production stage. Using two shale samples with different thermal maturity levels, our results demonstrate that methane diffuses into both cores during the soaking; however, it dissolves in oil only in the mature shale sample, resulting in a live oil with a solution gas-oil ratio of 932 standard ft3/stock tank barrel. During the primary production stage, we observe significant oil production under the solution-gas drive mechanism from the mature shale, while the immature shale exhibits negligible oil production. Natural fractures enhance gas penetration into the core, contributing to increased oil production in the primary production stage. Ultimately, the mature shale sample exhibits an oil recovery factor of 25.6% of original oil-in-place after the primary production stage, a remarkable contrast to 1.5% recovery observed in the immature shale. This difference is attributed to the immaturity of the organic matter, insufficient original oil-in-place, and absence of connected oil-wet pore network in the immature shale sample, confirmed by wettability evaluation and rock-eval pyrolysis data.
Enhancing the Accuracy and Predictability of the Oxy Field Optimizer for Dynamic Steam Allocation in the Mukhaizna Steamflood Field
Authors: Gao Chao , Le Duc , Al Qasabi Nasar , Al Mujaini Majid M. , Dornier David M. , Zhang Lei , Lee Paul , Vishwanath Manish
Published: March 2024

The main challenge for the Mukhaizna steamflood field is to allocate steam dynamically throughout the entire field, which consists of more than 3,200 wells, to obtain the most attractive reservoir performance forecast. To address this challenge, Occidental has developed a state-of-the-art closed-loop optimization solution called the Oxy Field Optimizer (OFO). The aim of this study is to enhance the accuracy, robustness, and predictability of the OFO. Recent advances include connection design, simulation stability, history-matching workflow, model predictability (blind test), and the optimizer. To improve the proxy simulator, 2D connections between wells were introduced and various strategies to handle convergence issues were implemented. The history-matching workflow has been enhanced by automating the temperature match, multistep saturation tuning, and relative permeability tuning. The results show that the implementation of gridblock material balance check, well equation check, and Not a Number (NaN) value check after line search solved multiple convergence problems. The automated temperature match process is five times faster compared with the manual process, and the automated relative permeability tuning decreased average oil mismatch by 55%. The optimizer now utilizes a parallel implementation of a novel ensemble-based optimization scheme (EnOpt) algorithm, which is twice as fast as the original implementation. These proven advances make OFO an essential tool for obtaining optimal steam allocations.
Retinoic Acid-mediated control of energy metabolism is essential for lung branching morphogenesis
Authors: Fernandes-Silva Hugo , Alves Marco G. , Garcez Marcia R. , Correia-Pinto Jorge , Oliveira Pedro F. , Homem Catarina C. F. , Moura Rute S.
Published: March 2024

Lung branching morphogenesis relies on intricate epithelial-mesenchymal interactions and signaling networks. Still, the interplay between signaling and energy metabolism in shaping embryonic lung development remains unexplored. Retinoic Acid (RA) signaling influences lung proximal-distal patterning and branching morphogenesis, but its role as metabolic modulator is unknown. Hence, this study investigates how RA signaling affects the metabolic profile of lung branching. We performed ex vivo lung explant culture of embryonic chicken lungs treated with DMSO, 1 µM RA, or 10 µM BMS493. Extracellular metabolite consumption/production was evaluated by 1H-NMR spectroscopy. Mitochondrial respiration and biogenesis were also analyzed. Proliferation was assessed using an EdU-based assay. The expression of crucial metabolic/signaling components was examined through western blot, qPCR, and in situ hybridization. RA signaling stimulation redirects glucose towards pyruvate and succinate production rather than to alanine or lactate. Inhibition of RA signaling reduces lung branching, resulting in a cystic-like phenotype while promoting mitochondrial function. Here, RA signaling emerges as a regulator of tissue proliferation and lactate dehydrogenase expression. Furthermore, RA governs fatty acid metabolism through an AMPK-dependent mechanism. These findings underscore RA's pivotal role in shaping lung metabolism during branching morphogenesis, contributing to our understanding of lung development and cystic-related lung disorders.
The Trinity Technique: A novel 3-step approach for debriefing multi-professional major incident simulation.
Authors: Newton Jon
Published: March 2024

Background:Debriefing is typically conducted in clinical practice following serious or unexpected incidents. Instigating these structured team-based discussions can support responder well-being, uphold professional standards and pledge a duty-of-care. Effective debriefing can also promote reflective practice, enable clinical development and reduce the occurrence of psychological trauma. It is therefore essential that opportunities to cultivate the requisite skillset to conduct an effective debrief are incorporated into simulation-based-learning and clinical skills training. Whilst a wide variety of debriefing frameworks exist to guide educators working within this field, most are unsuitable for use in a multi-professional, major incident simulation.

Methods:A novel 3-step major incident debriefing strategy was devised (named The Trinity Technique) and a proof-of-principle study was conducted over a 17-month period on a sample of 208 students studying paramedic science, adult nursing, physician associate and forensic science at University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol, UK. The debriefing strategy comprised of (1.) a Hot Debrief, (2.) a Question and Answer session; and (3.) a Cold Debrief using a newly fashioned debriefing framework called STOCK TAKE. Participant feedback was captured on Instruction Sheets, Microsoft Teams transcribes and handwritten notes. The data was then evaluated to improve teaching and learning practices and instigate future independent research.

Findings:High-levels of student and staff engagement were observed when using the Trinity Technique. Valuable insight into learner experience was gained and the novel strategy possessed a unique ability to debrief institutions as well as learners.

Conclusion: The Trinity Technique demonstrates promise and was effective when applied to multi-professional major incident simulation. Independent research is now required to formally test the efficacy of this novel approach.
Usability of saliva as a reliable and non-invasive sample for SARS-CoV-2 detection in Durban, South Africa
Authors: Samsunder Natasha , Sivro Aida , Hassan-Moosa Razia , Lewis Lara , Kara Zahra , Baxter Cheryl , Karim Quarraisha Abdool , Karim Salim Abdool , Kharsany Ayesha BM , Naidoo Kogieleum , Ngcapu Sinaye
Published: March 2024

Background
Saliva has been proposed as a potential more convenient, cost-effective, and easier sample for diagnosing SARS-CoV-2 infections, but there is limited knowledge of the impact of saliva volumes and stages of infection on its sensitivity and specificity.
Methods
In this study, we evaluated the performance of SARS-CoV-2 testing in 171 saliva samples across different volumes (50, 100, 300 and 500ul of saliva) and at different stages of disease (at screening, day 7, 14 and 28 post SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis) from 52 mostly mild symptomatic patients. Imperfect nasopharyngeal swab samples were used as a reference.
Results
Overall, 52 of the 171 samples were positive, with sensitivity of 73.2% and specificity of 81.0%. The sensitivity of saliva samples ranged from 70.6% for 50µl to 83.3% for 300µl of saliva collected. The specificity values ranged between 78.8% for 500µl and 86.4% for 100µl saliva. The overall percentage of positive results in nasopharyngeal swabs and saliva specimens remained comparable throughout the study visits. We observed no significant difference in cycle number values between saliva and nasopharyngeal swab specimens, irrespective of saliva volume tested.
Conclusions
The saliva collection offers a promising approach for population-based testing. Implementing robust saliva-based testing strategies could contribute significantly to controlling and managing the COVID-19 pandemic.
Analyzing Quality of YouTube Videos about Premature Ovarian Failure in the Past Decade
Authors: OZVURAL Seyfettin , KEYIF Betul , YURTCU Engin
Published: March 2024

Background
To determine the quality of YouTube videos about premature ovarian failure (POF), and variations in quality of professional YouTube videos about POF.
Methods
The selected terms including ‘POF’, ‘premature ovarian insufficiency’, ‘POF, infertility’, ‘POF, symptoms’, ‘POF, diagnosis’, and ‘POF treatment’ were searched on YouTube. Totally, 100 videos each uploaded by professional and non-professional sources were included. Characteristics of videos were noted and quality of YouTube videos were analyzed according to Global Quality Score (GQS) and modified DISCERN scale. The two groups were compared in terms of video characteristics, GQS, and modified DISCERN score. Videos uploaded by professional sources were categorized into two different groups from the first 5 years and the last 5 years, and compared.
Results
The mean number of views was 2961 for professional videos and 2003 for non-professional videos (p = 0.006), and the mean duration of videos was 10 minutes for professional videos and 6 minutes for non-professional videos (p = 0.001). When professional videos in the last 10 years were evaluated, number of views and ‘likes’ were significantly higher in favor of professional videos between 2014–2018 (p = 0.033 vs. p = 0.037). Video duration was significantly shortened for videos between 2019–2023 (p = 0.002). Patients as the target audience dominated videos prepared in the last 5 years (p = 0.001). Professional videos had significantly higher GQS and modified DISCERN score (p = 0.001 for each parameter). Moreover, GQS and modified DISCERN scores of professional videos increased significantly in the last 5 years (p = 0.001 vs. p = 0.023).
Conclusions
Professional YouTube videos about POF had significantly higher quality and ‘like’ numbers, and the quality of professional YouTube videos about POF significantly increased in the last five years. The proportion of professional videos about POF being prepared for patients increased significantly in the last 5 years, but video length of professional videos significantly decreased.
Pattern of Stress in the field of dentistry: from pre-clinical studies to work as a clinical dentist
Authors: Lugassy Diva , Shely Asaf , Zissu Sara , Lahav Rotem Shitrit , Rosner Ophir , Uziel Nir , Naishlos sarit Sarit
Published: March 2024

Background: Dental education is considered a highly stressful training process that can lead to high levels of perceived stress, anxiety and depression which can affect wellbeing and performance; Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the levels of stress, anxiety and depression experienced by dental students during their pre- clinical and clinical year and compare it to professional dentist.
Methods: In the present cross-sectional study, 42 general dentists and 131 undergraduate dental students at Tel Aviv University in the fourth, fifth and sixth year were participated. The psychological well- being was assessed by Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21) which measure the severity of psychological distress by a reliable self- rated questionnaire. Mann-Whitney tests were performed to evaluate the effects of gender on the DASS scores. Kruskal-Wallis one-way tests were used for comparison between dental students in their fourth. Fifth, sixth year of study and dentists.
Results:overall prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress was 45.1%, 48.8% and 47.1% respectively. Clinically significant (severe and extremely severe) depression, anxiety and stress were experienced by 16.2% (n=28), 21.6% (n= 37) and 20.9% (n=36) of the participants, respectively. Significant differences were found in relation to DASS category (normal, mild, moderate, severe, and extremely severe) of depression (p=0.001), anxiety (p=0.011) and stress (p=0.018) in which higher level of psychological symptoms of anxiety and depression were observed in fifth-year students and lower levels in dentists, compared to the fourth and sixth years.
Conclusions: High levels of depression, anxiety, and stress were observed in dental students during their clinical and pre-clinical years of study. However, these levels significantly decreased upon becoming a dentist.
Integrity Analysis of Polyamide 12 Applied in Oil Pipelines
Authors: Gomes Italo , Monteiro Antônio , Chaves Erica , Teixeira Sylvia dos Santos , Berry Nara , Li Lan Gans- , Dias Flávio , Silva Marcelo da
Published: March 2024

Pipes of polyamide were installed in oil fields and, after one year of operation, were removed and analyzes were carried out to assess any degradation and study its use in oil pipelines as corrosion mitigation. The outer layers of all field samples and the unaged sample did not show, in the DSC, any primary peak close to the melting peak. This is due to the extrusion and the formation of different crystalline structures on the inner surface, giving rise to two melting peaks. All layers of the field samples showed endothermic peaks. The unaged sample did not show these peaks. This can be attributed to the annealing process, but this phenomenon does not affect the properties PA12. The results showed no degradation and PA12 can be a viable alternative for oil pipelines, providing savings of more than 50% compared to steel, in addition to operational, human and environmental safety.
Determination of Black Fly species in Kirmir Stream (Ankara, Turkey) and their seasonal distribution
Authors: Başören Özge
Published: March 2024

This is the first study on the distribution and ecology of black flies in the Kirmir Stream. The Kirmir Stream is a tributary of the Sakarya River, which is one of the most important rivers in Turkey. To determine the Simuliidae fauna of the Kirmir Stream, 30 studying sites were sampled in June 2022, October 2022, and January 2023. A total of 8853 specimens were collected, and eight species were identified. Simulium bezzii Corti, 1914 was the most abundant species, Simulium petricolum Rivosecchi, 1963 was the most frequent and most common species while Simulium erythrocephalum De Geer, 1776 and Simulium angustitarse Lundström, 1911 were rare species in the Kirmir Stream. Simulium pseudequinum Seguy, 1921 was recorded as the species with the highest number of individuals in June 2022, followed by S. petricolum in October 2022, and S. bezzii in January 2023. In addition, environmental variables (water temperature, dissolved oxygen concentration, pH, electrical conductivity, and current velocity) were measured at the sampling sites. Redundancy analysis (RDA) was used to analyze the relationship between blackfly species and environmental variables for the first time for the Kirmir Stream. Such studies are of great importance to protect the habitat quality of the Kirmir Stream, which is under the influence of domestic and agricultural pollution.
Evaluation of physicochemical and microbiological quality of Srou river in the middle atlas – Morocco
Authors: Roumayssae Damrani , Hamza Essabiri , Issam Damrani , Hassan Abba El
Published: March 2024

Morocco faces a serious problem regarding water resources management concerning quantity and quality. This crisis is due to the succession of drought years in the region. The superficial and groundwater resources quality is usually affected by pollution rejected from domestic and industrial wastewater which often contains organic matter, pathogens and chemicals; the leakage of fertilizers and phytosanitary products used in agriculture and the erosion of soils which can also be an important factor whose role is to transport sediments and pollutants. This pollution affects directly the health of the aquatic ecosystem. Therefore, it is important to monitor and supervise the quality of surface water to ensure the safety of human consuming and protect the health of aquatic ecosystems. This work is based on evaluation of the surface water quality of Srou river by examining several samples taken at six different locations along the Wadi during the following period from August 2021 to May 2022 by measuring various parameters physicochemical and microbiological, including temperature, Hydrogen potential, electrical conductivity, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, hardness, alkalinity, nitrite, orthophosphate, sulfate, E. coli, fecal coliforms and fecal streptococci. These samples have been analyzed using the guidelines of the water quality assessment techniques described by Rodier (2009) and the World Health Organization recommendations. The results showed a slight increase after each extraction in term of electrical conductivity and water hardness, however all the parameters tested are within the norm and the water quality from the source till station 6 is of good quality.
Awareness and knowledge of elder abuse and neglect among dental practitioners in Southwestern England.
Authors: NIMAKO-BOATENG JOSEPH , Essel Nathaniel
Published: March 2024

Background
With the population ageing, elder abuse and neglect has become an increasing problem. Most elderly people are retaining their natural teeth and dentists are favourably positioned to detect cases of elder abuse and neglect. This study aimed to investigate the awareness, knowledge and attitudes of dentists in Dorset and Somerset Strategic Health Authority (SHA) regarding elder abuse and neglect.
Methods
Data was collected using a modified questionnaire from previous studies. The questionnaire was posted to all dentists in the Dorset and Somerset area in the year 2005. Demographic data as well as knowledge on elder abuse and neglect were assessed. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were carried out to allow for comparisons.
Results
A total of 380 out of the invited 496 dentists agreed to participate in the study (response rate 78.4%). Most participants had heard of elder abuse (84.7% [n = 321]) and neglect (78.1% [n = 296]). However, few participants had encountered specific incidents of elder abuse (8.4% [n = 32]) and neglect (11.9% [n = 45]). Dentists who treated patients from residential and nursing homes were significantly more likely to have encountered elder abuse and neglect (p < 0.001; chi-square = 14).
Conclusion
Incorporation of elder abuse and neglect into the curricula of dental schools and continuous education of dental professionals will help better detect and address these cases.
Unraveling pain experience and catastrophizing after cognitive behavioral therapy: A network model analysis
Authors: YOKOYAMA Satoshi , Adachi Tomonori , Yoshino Atsuo
Published: March 2024

Pain experiences are often complex with catastrophic cognitions, emotions, and behaviors. Cognitive behavioral therapists share the work of unraveling these complex experiences with their patients. However, the change process underlying the unraveling of the pain experience have not yet been quantified. We used an interrelationship-focused network model to examine the way an undifferentiated conceptualization between cognition and pain experience changed via group cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Overall, 65 participants were included in the study; they attended the total of 12 weekly group CBT and filled the Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire and the pain catastrophizing questionnaire. Before treatment, there were no edges in the partial correlation-based network because of large covariation across items. After treatment, many edges appeared and, particularly strong couplings were found between items within the same subscale. The formative shift from a non-edged pre-treatment network to a mature post-treatment network indicates that patients were able to conceptualize these symbolic constructs better. These results are consistent with the fundamental monitoring process of CBT.
Neuropsychological profile and its covariates in children with ADHD: A Comparative Study with Neurotypical Peers
Authors: Zadjali Al Haysam Al , Omari Omar Al , Mahadevan Sangeetha , Al-Harthi Lara , Islam M. Mazharul , Hassan Walid , Al-Zakwani Ibrahim , Alshekaili Muna , Mirza Hassan , Al-Adawi Samir
Published: March 2024

This study compared the sociodemographic, clinical characteristics, and cognitive functioning of children with ADHD with neurotypical children, investigating associations with screening time, comorbidity, and sleep. Conducted in outpatient clinics in two specialised hospitals, it assessed reasoning ability, visual perception, vigilance, attention, concentration, working memory, verbal learning, and executive functioning. Data from 70 children with ADHD and 48 neurotypical children revealed differences in demographic variables. Children with ADHD were more common in larger low-income families, with employed fathers, experiencing disturbed sleep, born through high-risk pregnancies, and prone to chronic diseases. Regression analysis, controlling for confounders, showed significant differences in visual perception, vigilance, verbal working memory, and verbal fluency between the two groups. In particular, executive functioning, visual perception, vigilance, working memory, and verbal memory also varied significantly with respect to the impact of cognitive status on sleep, screen time, and comorbidity. This study highlights the neuropsychological differences between children with ADHD and their neurotypical peers, highlighting associations with clinical risk factors and sociodemographic background. It underscores the importance of further research into these associations.
A local filtering-based energy-aware routing scheme in flying ad hoc networks
Authors: Hosseinzadeh Mehdi , Husari Fatimatelbatoul Mahmoud , Yousefpoor Mohammad Sadegh , Lansky Jan , Min Hong
Published: March 2024

Flying ad hoc network (FANET) is a new technology, which creates a self-organized wireless network containing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). In FANET, routing protocols deal with important challenges due to limited energy, frequent failures in communication links, high mobility of UAVs, and limited communication range of UAVs. Thus, a suitable path is always essential to transmit data between UAVs reliably. In this paper, a local filtering-based energy-aware routing scheme (LFEAR) is proposed for FANETs. LFEAR improves the template of the route request (RREQ) packet by adding three other fields, namely the energy, reliable distance, and movement similarity of the relevant route to create stable and energy-efficient paths between UAVs. In the routing process, LFEAR presents a local filtering construction technique to avoid the broadcasting storm issue. This filter limits the broadcasting range of RREQs in the network. Accordingly, only UAVs inside this local filtered area can rebroadcast RREQ and other UAVs must eliminate this packet. Upon the end of the route discovery process, the destination begins the route selection phase and extracts information about each discovered route, including the number of hops, route energy, reliable distance, and movement similarity from the relevant RREQ. Then, the destination node calculates a score for each path based on the extracted information, selects the route with the highest score, and sends a route reply (RREP) packet to the source node through this route. Finally, the simulation process of LFEAR is performed using the NS2 simulator, and two simulation scenarios, namely change in network density and change in the speed of UAVs, are defined to evaluate network performance. In the first scenario, LFEAR improves energy consumption, packet delivery rate, network lifespan, and delay by 1.33%, 1.77%, 6.74%, and 1.71%, while its routing overhead is about 16.51% more than EARVRT. In the second scenario, LFEAR optimizes energy consumption and network lifetime by 5.55% and 5.67%, respectively. However, its performance in terms of routing overhead, packet delivery rate, and delay is 23%, 2.29%, and 6.67% weaker than EARVRT, respectively.