bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peloid-based cosmeutics is effective in the treatment of acnotic skin - prospective study from Montenegro
Authors: Potpara Zorica , Pantovic Snezana , Zecevic Antoaneta Adzic
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Among skin diseases, acne represents a special therapeutic challenge because it affects the younger population and significantly affects the quality of life.The chemical composition and biological profile of peloid from Ulcinj (Montenegro) was the subject of our previous research, and the combination of that peloid and medicinal plant tinctures made Peloderm, whose effectiveness in the treatment of acne is tested in this study.
Materials and Methods: A prospective study included 140 subjects diagnosed with acne. They were divided in two groups: Peloderm-treated cohort and Emuslion-treated cohort. The FDA-IGA scale was used to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment.Eighteen-months follow up protocol was applied.
Results: There were significant differences within the examined groups, namely in part of previous antibiotic therapy, body mass index, alcohol consumption and the presence of stress.FDA-IGA score decreases in both cohorts, but more significantly in Peloderm-cohort. Final FDA-IGA score is significantly lower in Peloderm-cohort.
Discussion and Conclusion: Despite official guidelines not recognizing cosmeuticals in acne treatment, Peloderm showed promising results. The formulation's assumed mechanisms of action include reduced sebum secretion, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects, attributed to peloid and medicinal plant ingredients. Further research are needed.
Experimental validation of solar parabolic trough collector model for industrial process heat application
Authors: Akello Philip O. O. , Saoke Churchil O. , Kamau Joseph N. , Ndeda Jared. O. H.
Published: February 2024

This study presents experimental performance and model analysis of a parabolic trough collector (PTC) system designed for industrial heating applications. Thus, a prototype of a PTC with 1.81m2 reflective aperture area, 90o rim angle and a concentration ratio of 14.41 is presented. The reflector is made of 2m2 anodized aluminium mirror with high light reflectance value of 0.95. The re-ceiver, or heat collection element (HCE), is a 2m long tube made from SUS304 (SS304) stainless steel, which is enclosed within an external layer of borosilicate glass envelope. The receiver exhibits an exceptionally high surface absorptance of 0.96 and transmittance value of 0.92. The tracking system is based on a universal sensory solar tracker controller designed to be used with permanent magnet DC motors, and with high tracking accuracy and great electrical ca-pabilities. Initially, a simulation model of the PTC is developed using System Advisor Model (SAM) software. Then, a PTC prototype sys-tem test setup is established under outdoor weather conditions at Kimuka, in Kajiado, Kenya (latitude 1.418426°S and longitude 36.59749°E), to validate the model using experimental and meteoro-logical data measured under clear-sky condition and cloudy weather. The deviations between experimental and simulation results on the clear-sky day are 5.6% for useful heat gain, 1.89% for optical effi-ciency, and 1.42% with RMSE of 0.20% for instantaneous thermal efficiency, respectively, demonstrating good agreement. For the cloudy day, the observed deviations between experimental findings and simulation results are 9.8% for useful heat gain, 1.05% for opti-cal efficiency, 3.32% with RMSE of 0.57% for instantaneous thermal efficiency, respectively, also indicating a satisfactory level of agree-ment. Based on these results, SAM simulation model can be consid-ered as effective in forecasting the thermal and optical performance of PTCs across various operational scenarios in Kenya. At the same time, the cost of the PTC is about US$185/m2 of aperture area, and lies within a competitive range in comparison to competitors in the market.
Crime Status Prediction Using Ensemble Learning
Authors: Jain Sanjay , Singh Prashant
Published: February 2024

This work focuses on crime status prediction through an ensemble methodology applied to extensive datasets obtained from catalog.data.gov, specifically targeting Los Angeles crime incidents since 2020. The research methodology comprises meticulous data collection, rigorous preprocessing, exploratory data analysis, model selection, and comprehensive model evaluation. Initial challenges included data inaccuracies and privacy-preserving measures in location data, necessitating thorough cleaning and transformation processes. Exploratory data analysis revealed crucial insights, including the 'Status' attribute's limited correlation, crime code distributions, areawise crime counts, and temporal patterns. To address class imbalance within 'Status', the synthetic minority oversampling technique (SMOTE) was applied to balance the dataset. Model evaluation highlighted the superiority of random forest models employing 10 and 20 decision trees, alongside KNN, which demonstrated consistent high accuracy, balanced precision-recall trade-offs, and notable F1 scores in crime status prediction.
Guide to Developing Case-based Attack Scenarios and Establishing Defense Strategies for Cybersecurity Exercise in ICS Environment
Authors: Kim Donghyun , Jeon Seungho , Kim Kwangsoo , Kang Jaesik , Lee Seungwoon , Seo Jung Taek
Published: February 2024

Critical infrastructure mostly performs its role through an industrial control system (ICS). Organizations that operate security-related facilities often conduct adversarial simulation exercises between the so-called red team, which carries out attacks, and the blue team, which is responsible for defense. For the exercise to be effective, adversarial activities should include clearly delineated attack scenarios and corresponding defensive activities. Although government agencies and organizations in each country recognize the importance of exercises and propose various guidelines and practices, there still needs to be systematic guides for deriving cyberattack scenarios or defense strategies. This paper proposes a guide for establishing realistic attack scenarios and defense strategies for cybersecurity exercises in ICS environments. The proposed guide is largely divided into attack scenario generation and defensive strategy derivation. Attack scenario generation is further divided into four steps: generating attack references, deriving attack sequence, mapping threat information, and mapping vulnerable implementation patterns. Deriving a defensive strategy consists of two steps parallel to developing an attack scenario: deriving containment and eradication. Through a case study, we showed that a clear exercise plan could be established from the proposed guide. Additionally, we discuss some possible uses and limitations of our proposal.
Low circulating tumor cell levels correlate with favorable outcomes and distinct biological features in multiple myeloma
Authors: Kostopoulos Ioannis , Ntanasis-Stathopoulos Ioannis , Rousakis Pantelis , Malandrakis Panagiotis , Panteli Chrysanthi , Eleutherakis-Papaiakovou Evangelos , Angelis Nikolaos , Spiliopoulou Vasiliki , Bakouros Panagiotis , Syrigou Rodanthi-Eleni , Dimitrakopoulou Georgia , Fotiou Despina , Migkou Magdalini , Kanellias Nikolaos , Paschalidis Nikolaos , Gavriatopoulou Maria , Kastritis Efstathios , Dimopoulos Meletios-Athanasios , Tsitsilonis Ourania E. , Terpos Evangelos
Published: February 2024

Background
There is growing interest in multiple myeloma (MM) circulating tumor cells (CTCs), but its rareness in peripheral blood (PB) and inconsistency in cutoffs question their clinical utility. Herein, we aimed at defining the optimal CTC cutoff using a highly sensitive approach. Moreover, we analyzed matched bone marrow (BM) and PB samples in order to highlight inconsistencies between the two sites and identify microenvironmental profiles associating with enhanced CTC dissemination.
Methods
Next-generation flow cytometry was performed for the detection of myeloma cells in matched BM and PB samples from 550 newly-diagnosed MM patients. Various multivariable regression models were applied for the detection of the optimal CTC clinical cutoff (median follow-up: 41 months). BM microenvironment was characterized by deep phenotyping using both CyTOF and various multiparametric flow cytometry panels.
Results
CTCs were detected in 90% of patients (median 0.01%, range: 0.0002% − 12.6%) and increased levels associated with adverse features. Unexpected correlations were observed between high CTC percentages and a diffused MRI pattern, a distinct BM composition characterized by altered B-cell differentiation together with an expansion of effector cells and tumor-associated macrophages, as well as a greater phenotypic dissimilarity between BM and PB tumor cells. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) gradually worsened with each logarithmic increment of CTCs. Conversely, patients without CTCs showed unprecedented outcomes (5-year PFS and OS: 83% and 97%, respectively). A cutoff of 0.02% CTCs was independent of the ISS, LDH and cytogenetics in a multivariate analysis of risk factors for PFS and proved clinically relevant for both TE and TI patients. The 0.02% CTC cutoff synergized with the MGUS-like phenotype and the R-ISS for improved risk stratification. MRD-negativity was less frequent if CTCs were ≥ 0.02% at diagnosis, but whenever achieved, the poor prognosis of these patients was abrogated.
Conclusions
This study shows the clinical utility of CTC assessment in MM and provides evidence towards a consensus cutoff for risk stratification. The liquid biopsy is more informative of the entire tumor burden than a single-spot BM aspiration; hence, CTC analysis may serve as the new hallmark for the real-time evaluation of a patient’s disease status.
Detecting anomalies in buildings using point cloud data and BIM: a practical application
Authors: FIDELES Bruna , OLIVEIRA² Afonso , BESSA³ Maycon , CABRAL Eduardo , MESQUITA Esequiel
Published: February 2024

Visual inspections using the traditional method can be inefficient and complicated in some buildings, making the anomaly survey process slow and inaccurate. Recently, studies have been carried out on digital surveying and reality capture techniques as a way of inspecting and capturing the in-situ state of structures, especially in complex scenarios. Anomaly detection using laser scanners is a new area of research that offers many opportunities to improve the current practice of visual inspections, which will reduce the need for skilled labor, avoid human access to hostile environments and allow for the automatic documentation of related information using building information modeling (BIM). This article discusses the implementation of a workflow to detect anomalies present in a commercial building using laser scanning and BIM. The results are a technical inspection report with a description of the anomalies and an as-is model of the building with the quantity for the recovery budget.
Research on vehicle lane keeping ability in low-speed scenarios based on real- vehicle driving behavior
Authors: Mengmeng Duan , Penghui Li , Hao Wu , Lai Jin , Shulin Zhang , Pengfei Feng , Huiqing Jin , Susu Liu
Published: February 2024

In order to ensure the safety and stability of the vehicle lane in the low-speed scenario, this paper selects 2926 pieces of real vehicle driving lane maintenance in the low-speed scenario based on the open source natural driving data set AD4CHE in Dajiang, China, and extracts 15 typical driving safety and stability indicators in the low-speed scenario. Through K-means cluster correlation analysis, combined with Youden index, Boxplot method and statistical value, a total of five unreasonable indicators were eliminated, and a three-level evaluation system of lane keeping capacity under low-speed scenarios containing ten indicators was constructed, and the best discrimination threshold of each indicator was determined. The calculation method of subjective and objective weight combination based on difference coefficient is proposed to realize scientific and reasonable distribution of evaluation index weight. Finally, the evaluation model of lane keeping ability in low-speed scenarios based on multi-dimensional index fusion and the grading evaluation standard of vehicle lane keeping ability in low-speed scenarios are constructed. It can objectively and accurately reflect the actual situation of the driver's lane keeping ability in low-speed scenarios. Finally, the lane keeping ability evaluation model and standard in low-speed scenarios based on multi-dimensional index fusion are applied to the natural driving dataset, which verifies that the lane keeping ability evaluation model and standard in low-speed scenarios proposed in this paper are effective, and can provide theoretical support for traffic safety prevention and control in low-speed road scenarios.
Heat combined with salinity stimulate antioxidant defense but induce severe impairment in photosynthesis of rice plants
Authors: Mendes Kellyane da Rocha , Bonifácio Aurenivia , Martins Márcio Oliveira , Sousa Rachel Helen Vieira , Monteiro Matheus Vasconcelos , Silveira Joaquim A G
Published: February 2024

Aims To test the hypothesis if high temperature could aggravate salt stress through stimulation of Na+ accumulation, impairment in photosynthesis and generation of oxidative stress in rice leaves.Methods Rice plants were previously exposed to 0 and 100 mM NaCl for eight days at 27°C and afterwards two groups were transferred to high temperature (42°C) for 10 hours (heat and heat + salt) whereas two others remained at 27°C (control and single salt).Results Heat combined with salinity greatly stimulated Na+ accumulation in leaves causing intense decrease in K+/Na+ ratios, inducing significant osmotic and ionic alterations. Stomata were closed intensely causing drastic impairment in CO2 assimilation and decrease in water use efficiency. In contrast, the PSII activity was much lesser affected, corroborated by low increase in closed reaction center fraction of PSII and slight decrease in electron transport rates. Unexpectedly, that stress combination partially favored oxidative protection as indicated by reduction in the levels of H2O2 and lipid peroxidation associated with reduction in the contents of reduced ascorbate and glutathione. These favorable antioxidant responses were accompanied by increases in the activities of ascorbate peroxidases, superoxide dismutases, glutathione peroxidases, and phenol peroxidases whereas catalases and glycolate oxidases decreased. These antioxidant responses were not enough to mitigate overall physiological damages caused by combined stress as indicated by drastic increase in membrane damage.Conclusions High temperature drastically aggravates negative effects caused by salt stress on the photosynthetic efficiency, especially CO2 assimilation, despite that combination has partially favored the antioxidant defense.
Extracting XCO2 NASA data with XCODEX: A Python package designed for data extraction and structuration
Authors: Laurito Henrique Fontellas , Scala Newton La , Rolim Glauco Souza
Published: February 2024

Monitoring carbon dioxide (CO2) is an essential part of studying climate change and its impacts. NASA has played a key role in global CO2 monitoring using the OCO-2 satellite. With this, daily records of column averaged CO2 dry air mole fraction (XCO2) are made available on the GES DISC platform for the study of sources and sinks of CO2 in the atmosphere. However, these records are presented in netCDF (nc4), which is complex and multidimensional files, requiring specialized software and programming knowledge for the efficient manipulation of data. To offer a tool, whose advantages extend from obtaining the files to the extraction and organization of the data, in a spatio-temporal series, in addition to identifying possible missing data in regions of interest, the XCODEX package (XCO2 Daily EXtractor) was developed in Python language. The package was applied by comparing data from the Mauna Loa observatory and a simple linear regression model was adjusted. The adjusted model showed high correlation (adjusted R² = 0.983), high accuracy (RMSE = 0.659 ppm) and small trend (SE = 0.025 ppm). We also apply to 10 locations around the globe. The XCODEX package, faced with the complexity of handling nc4 files, was able to download and extract daily data from XCO2 in a correct, intuitive and simple way, being available for free in the PyPi repository.
Giant gap 3D topological insulator in double perovskites: A2BiAtO6 (A=Ca, Sr, Ba)
Authors: Tsai Shang-Yuu , Lee Po-Han , Chang Tay-Rong , Wang Yin-Kuo
Published: February 2024

We predict new class of three-dimensional (3D) Z2 topological insulators (TIs) in A2BiAtO6 (A=Ba, Ca and Sr) double perovskites with band gaps due to spin-orbital couplings (SOC). By employing first-principle calculations based on the density functional theory (DFT), we obtain energy gaps of 0.70 , 0.71 and 0.72 eV for A2BiAtO6 with A=Ba, Ca and Sr, respectively. These energy band gaps are among the largest ever found so far and allow for potential room-temperature applications of their topological properties. The proposed materials are not only chemically more inert but also more robust against surface perturbations due to its intrinsic protection layer.
Bias in AI and Machine Learning: The Impact of COVID-19 in African Healthcare Communities
Authors: Galvin Andrew , Hogan Andrew
Published: February 2024

AI technology has become increasingly involved in a plethora of societal functions in recent years, but racial bias in AI algorithms has revealed a dangerous trend. With the rapid advancements in technology in general as well as artificial intelligence algorithms, bias is unknowingly developing in these algorithms due to the lack of attention towards it. However, recent efforts have been made to first recognize that bias exists in these algorithms as well as strategies to eradicate it. The implications of the research performed in this analysis go much further than a simple moral obligation to promote inclusiveness for marginalized groups in society; racial bias in AI algorithms has the potential to involve life and death consequences. Specifically in the provision of health, an unbiased algorithm may inherently contain bias due to factors outside of the algorithm itself. It is important to use diverse data sets in our algorithms to ensure that the data does not contain bias. Using a data set which is not diverse may lead to the algorithm developing bias over time, which may cause adverse impacts on patients. In addition, we will discuss how bias affects Africa in comparison to more developed countries. We will look into the future of how we can eliminate bias in artificial intelligence and advance the provision of health more equitably across the global community. Based on findings showcasing examples of racially biased AI technology used to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, efforts currently being taken to eradicate racial bias in AI are highlighted along with a discussion of future actions that should be performed. With more federal regulations surrounding AI algorithms along with an emphasis on promoting diversity in the personnel and data of the AI community, particularly in Africa, the future of AI can be one free of racially biased tendencies.
The Big Data Workshop in Africa
Authors: Folajimi Yetunde
Published: February 2024

Recent years have seen an increase in the amount of attention paid to the lack of diversity and shortage of data in the field of artificial intelligence and its influence on developing countries, particularly in Africa. This paper examines the burgeoning interest in big data within academic and business sectors, with a specific focus on Nigeria's standing in the African Big Data Readiness Index. Despite Nigeria's stature as a major African economy, it ranks 21st on the index, suggesting a notable discrepancy in big data adoption and proficiency. The study draws inspiration from a free, week-long course covering big data, design thinking, and women in technology, at University of Ibadan, Nigeria in July 2017. The paper provides an in-depth analysis of the event's organization, emphasizing the keen interest in big data and machine learning among Nigerian researchers. Methodologies for participant recruitment and event logistics are discussed, alongside the demographic analysis of attendees, which offers insight into gender and educational disparities in the field. The paper also highlights the event's diverse activities, from hands-on data analysis to discussions on women in technology. Results from participant surveys show unanimous satisfaction and a strong inclination towards big data tools and machine learning. The paper concludes by underscoring the vital role such educational initiatives play in enhancing big data understanding in Nigeria, while also calling attention to the need for increased female participation in AI sectors.
Prevalence of Rickettsia spp., Anaplasma spp. and Ehrlichia spp. in Ornithodoros lahorensis from southern Xinjiang, China
Authors: HUANG KAIJUN , LU SUN , WANG ZHICHAO , ZHANG LIU , NA XIONG , HU JINGLEI , LI SIANG , WU JUNYUAN
Published: February 2024

Ticks are important vectors for pathogens and transmit a variety of diseases in humans and animals. Numerous studies have reported the presence of Ixodidae ticks and tick-borne pathogens in southern Xinjiang. However, data pertaining to argasid ticks and argasid tick-associated pathogens are sparse. This study collected a total of 407 ticks from southern Xinjiang. The tick species were identified on the basis of their morphological and mitochondrial 16S ribosomal DNA (16S rDNA) characteristics. The citrate synthase gene (gltA), 17-kilodalton antigen gene (17-kDa), and outer membrane protein A and B genes (ompA, ompB) were amplified using four sets of primers. The species of rickettsiae were further identified on the basis of concatenated sequences. To detect Anaplasma and Ehrlichia, nested PCR was used to amplify the Ehrlichia and Anaplasma 16S rRNA genes, respectively. All 407 ticks were Ornithodoros lahorensis. A total of 109 Rickettsia-positive samples and 19 Anaplasma-positive samples were detected in DNA samples from the 407 ticks. R. sibirica, R. massiliae, Candidatus R. barbariae, A. ovis, A. marginale, and A. phagocytophilum were found. All DNA samples from Or. lahorensis were tested for the presence of the Ehrlichia spp. nucleotide, but none of the samples were positive for such pathogens. This is the first time that R. sibirica, R. massiliae, and A. marginale were detected in Or. lahorensis from southern Xinjiang.
Diagnostic and therapeutic challenge: A case of right ventricular thrombus
Authors: Bedi Angad , Sabri Muhammad , Sevella Prerana , Al Hennawi Hussam , Pirolli Gregory
Published: February 2024

Right ventricular thrombus is a rare finding found in 4% of people diagnosed with pulmonary embolism. Although right ventricular thrombi are usually associated with atrial fibrillation, deep venous vein thrombi, or intracardiac procedures, isolated right ventricular thrombi are rare. Right ventricular thrombus has also been reported in patients with right ventricular infarction, as hypokinesis of the right ventricle causes blood stasis and promotes thrombosis as per Virchow’s triad. However, we present a case of isolated RV thrombus in a patient without evidence of deep vein thrombosis or right ventricular hypokinesis who presented with dyspnea on exertion.
The curious case of Kounis syndrome: Exploring clinical manifestations and management in the presence of nonobstructive coronary arteries
Authors: Drittel Darren , Deyar Dylan , Boxer Eric , Al Hennawi Hussam , Mack Margaret
Published: February 2024

Kounis syndrome, an allergic hypersensitivity coronary disorder, is a rare but potentially life- threatening condition triggered by various allergens, including medications. We present the case of a 41-year-old male with no prior cardiac history, who developed Kounis syndrome following vancomycin administration for suspected cellulitis. The patient initially presented with rash, fever, and malaise, which progressed to chest discomfort associated with diaphoresis and elevated troponin levels. Diagnostic evaluations, including electrocardiographic changes and coronary angiography, confirmed a diagnosis of type I Kounis syndrome. This case adds to the limited literature on vancomycin-induced Kounis syndrome, and underscores the importance of considering this diagnosis in patients with myocardial damage following exposure to potential allergens.
Structural variations of pectinate muscles across sheep and rabbit atria
Authors: Sakr Mahmoud A , Yacoub Magdi H
Published: February 2024

Summary: The venous inflow of each atrial cortex is asymmetric and coupled to geometry and outflow to produce optimal vortices and flow patterns in each chamber. In the right atrium, fiber orientation is dependent on the crista terminals and pectinate muscles, which produce a circumferential squeezing effect to propel blood into the desired direction. The left atrial fiber orientation is a more complex fiber that suits its its geometry and function. This study demonstrates the structural differences between the right and left atria.

Background: The right and left atria play important roles in overall cardiac performance, both at rest and during exercise. Atrial dysfunction due to congenital or acquired heart diseases can result in significant disability or death. The prevalence of such conditions has been rising due to the increasing age of the population as well as the progressively larger number of patients with Grown-up congenital heart disease (GUCH).

Methods: Left and right atria were collected from rabbits and juvenile sheep, and pattern recognition and image analysis were used to illustrate the microstructure and orientation of the pectinate muscles.

Results: The aim of this study is to observe the differences in the structure of the pectinate muscles in both rabbits and sheep. Through image analysis and pattern recognition, we were able to identify the orientation of the patterns that can help produce off-the-shelf patches that are capable of mimicking and/or reproducing most of the functions of normal atrial tissue.

Conclusion: The microstructure of the pectinate muscles is unique and provides remarkable functionality to the atria.
Peculiarity of Surgical Tactics for Management of Ischemic Heart Disease in patients with Left Main Coronary Artery Stenosis
Authors: HASAN A , PERVEZ Z , ISMIT W , CHAUDHARY F A
Published: February 2024

The left main coronary artery disease has poor natural history. Sudden death, massive myocardial infarction, angina and poor quality of life indicate the ominous nature of the disease. Coronary artery bypass grafting remains the ultimate choice of its management. A relatively high mortality and morbidity of its surgical treatment described in literature leads to the actuality of this disease. This work is a part of our continuous effort for refinements in anesthetic and surgical techniques to reduce mortality and morbidity in such patients and is in the clinical practice at our institute for the last few years. During the period from February 1998 to October 2005, 74 patients underwent coronary artery bypass surgery for left main coronary artery stenosis, at Federal Postgraduate Medical Institute, Shaikh Zayed Hospital. Lahore. All patients presented with angina, unstable in 62.2%. An old myocardial Infarction was present in 52 (70.3%) patients. An emergent surgery was needed in 5(6.8%), urgent operation was performed in 45(60.8%) patients and elective procedure was done in 24(32.4%). Average stay in the hospital was 9.0±2.7 days. There were 2 hospital deaths and one late non cardiac death. The post-operative
recovery was eventless in majority of the patients. The return of patients to their jobs improved significantly (P
Spatiotemporal trends and evapotranspiration estimation using an improvised SEBAL convergence method for the semi-arid region of Western Rajasthan, India
Authors: Saxena Dhruv , Choudhary Mahender , Sharma Gunwant
Published: February 2024

The study demonstrates how to estimate evapotranspiration (ET) for the Western Rajasthan region of India utilizing remotely sensed images with the Surface Energy Balance Algorithm for Land (SEBAL). Landsat 8 and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) satellite inputs were used to compute seasonal and annual ET on the Google Earth Engine platform. The assessment utilizing the SEBAL algorithm, in combination with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Penman–Monteith (PM) and Hargreaves methods, demonstrates that SEBAL has adequate reliability for estimating ET for a spatially large extent in semi-arid regions when evaluated with the Hargreaves method. The values of R2, root-mean-square error (RMSE), and mean bias error (MBE) for FAO-PM were 0.63, 1.65 mm/day, and 1.28 mm/day, respectively. For the Hargreaves method, the values of R2, RMSE, and MBE were 0.96, 0.41 mm/day, and −0.31 mm/day, respectively. The study showed that the northern region witnessed the highest ET due to the availability of abundant surface water for irrigation. Overall, the results demonstrate the SEBAL model's effectiveness in estimating evapotranspiration. A downward trend in ET is observed in the region, mainly due to changing climatic conditions.
Scouring around bridge pier: A comprehensive analysis of scour depth predictive equations for clear-water and live-bed scouring conditions
Authors: Baranwal Anubhav , Das Bhabani Shankar
Published: February 2024

The failure of bridges, attributed to bridge pier scouring, poses a significant challenge in ensuring safe and cost-effective design. Numerous laboratory and field experiments have been conducted to comprehend the mechanisms and predict the maximum equilibrium scour depth around bridge piers. Over the last eight decades, various empirical methods have been developed, with different authors incorporating diverse influencing parameters that significantly impact the estimation of equilibrium scour depth around bridge piers. This paper aims to consolidate: (1) available experimental and field data sets on different types of bridge pier scouring, (2) the influence of flow and roughness parameters on both clear water scouring (CWS) and live bed scouring (LBS), and (3) existing empirical equations suitable for computing equilibrium scour depth around a bridge pier under CWS and LBS conditions. The presented research encompasses over 80 experimental/field data sets and more than 60 scour-predicting equations developed for CWS and LBS conditions in the past eight decades. Based on the performance of different empirical models in predicting scour depth ratio, suitable models are recommended for CWS and LBS conditions.
Prospecting the biodegradation of ciprofloxacin by Stutzerimonas stutzeri R2 and Exiguobacterium indicum strain R4 isolated from pharmaceutical wastewater
Authors: Ali Qurban , Zainab Rida , Badshah Malik , Sarwar Warda , Khan Samiullah , Mustafa Ghulam , Ibrahim Tanveer , Ahmed Safia
Published: February 2024

Ciprofloxacin (CIP), an emerging micro-pollutant antibiotic, poses an environmental threat due to its resistance to high-temperature decomposition, aiding antibiotic resistance spread. Conventional degradation generates toxic byproducts, while biodegradation offers an efficient and eco-friendly means to eliminate CIP. In this study, ciprofloxacin-degrading strains were isolated from pharmaceutical wastewater using an enrichment technique. Isolated strains R2 and R4 were identified as Stutzerimonas stutzeri and Exiguobacterium indicum, respectively, based on their 16S rRNA gene sequence. Ciprofloxacin degrading potential of these strains was tested in shake flask fermentation and quantified using spectrophotometric assays and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC). UHPLC analysis revealed that in co-metabolism, R2 achieved 51 and 77% degradation, and R4 achieved 60 and 68% after 5 and 10 days of incubation. When CIP served as the only carbon source, R2 degraded it by 23 and 35%, while R4 degraded it by 19% and 28 in 5 and 10 days, respectively. Spectrophotometric analyses produced congruent results with UHPLC. Notably, in co-metabolism, R2 and R4 achieved 66 and 88% degradation within the 5 days. Moreover, the degraded residues displayed reduced antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. In conclusion, both strains show potential for degrading CIP, aiding in mitigating pharmaceuticals and environmental pollutants.
Evaluating the blackboard technology's influence on English for specific purpose education: Using technology to teach English
Authors:   Department of English Language and Literature, College of Languages and Translation, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Dabeel Majed Abu
Published: February 2024

This study examines the impact of Blackboard technology on the learning of English for Specific Purposes (ESP) among students and teachers in public universities in Saudi Arabia. Blackboard is a popular online platform for teaching ESP because it is easy to use and accessible and provides affordable e-learning with interactive activities and a variety of educational materials. The research uses both qualitative and quantitative methods to examine how students and teachers view Blackboard. A 5-point scale survey was administered to 114 students (60 males and 54 females) to determine how often they use Blackboard for ESP instruction. In addition, interviews were conducted with six male and five female teachers to evaluate Blackboard's effectiveness in academics and its influence on students' learning and memory. The study focused on four main areas: how often Blackboard is used by different age groups and genders, students' opinions about Blackboard, and teachers' opinions about using Blackboard for discussion. The results show that ESP students enjoy using Blackboard discussions and find them somewhat engaging and motivating. Blackboard helps with learning and communication both in and out of the classroom. The study also found that students prefer to learn in both English and their native language, while teachers believe that using the native language could slow down English learning. This research highlights the positive effects of Blackboard on ESP learning, overcoming age differences, and shows its value in education, suggesting it as a useful tool for educational institutions and policymakers to improve education and student-teacher interactions. It also points to the need for the right technological tools to meet students' needs.
Telehealth Care Through Internet Hospitals in China: Qualitative Interview Study of Physicians’ Views on Access, Expectations, and Communication
Authors: Zhong Yuqiong , Hahne Jessica , Wang Xiaomin , Wang Xuxi , Wu Ying , Zhang Xin , Liu Xing
Published: February 2024

Background

Internet hospitals in China are an emerging medical service model similar to other telehealth models used worldwide. Internet hospitals are currently in a stage of rapid development, giving rise to a series of new opportunities and challenges for patient care. Little research has examined the views of chronic disease physicians regarding internet hospitals in China.

Objective

We aimed to explore the experience and views of chronic disease physicians at 3 tertiary hospitals in Changsha, China, regarding opportunities and challenges in internet hospital care.

Methods

We conducted semistructured qualitative interviews with physicians (n=26) who had experience working in internet hospitals affiliated with chronic disease departments in 3 tertiary hospitals in Changsha, Hunan province, south central China. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed by content analysis using NVivo software (version 11; Lumivero).

Results

Physicians emphasized that internet hospitals expand opportunities to conduct follow-up care and health education for patients with chronic illnesses. However, physicians described disparities in access for particular groups of patients, such as patients who are older, patients with lower education levels, patients with limited internet or technology access, and rural patients. Physicians also perceived a gap between patients’ expectations and the reality of limitations regarding both physicians’ availability and the scope of services offered by internet hospitals, which raised challenges for doctor-patient boundaries and trust. Physicians noted challenges in doctor-patient communication related to comprehension and informed consent in internet hospital care.

Conclusions

This study explored the experience and views of physicians in 3 tertiary hospitals in Changsha, China, regarding access to care, patients’ expectations versus the reality of services, and doctor-patient communication in internet hospital care. Findings from this study highlight the need for physician training in telehealth communication skills, legislation regulating informed consent in telehealth care, public education clarifying the scope of internet hospital services, and design of internet hospitals that is informed by the needs of patient groups with barriers to access, such as older adults.
Effects of the Prolong Life With Nine Turn-Method Qigong on Fatigue, Insomnia, Anxiety, and Gastrointestinal Disorders in Patients With Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Xie Fangfang , You Yanli , Gu Yuanjia , Xu Jiatuo , Yao Fei
Published: February 2024

Background

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a debilitating multisystem disorder that can lead to various pathophysiological abnormalities and symptoms, including insomnia, gastrointestinal disorders, and anxiety. Due to the side effects of currently available drugs, there is a growing need for safe and effective nondrug therapies. The Prolong Life With Nine Turn (PLWNT) Qigong method is a system of mind-body exercise with restorative benefits that can alleviate the clinical symptoms of CFS and impart a significant inhibitory effect. Various studies have proven the treatment efficacy of PLWNT; however, the impact on insomnia, gastrointestinal disorders, and anxiety in patients with CFS has not yet been investigated.

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the PLWNT method in terms of its effects on fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, and gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with CFS.

Methods

We will conduct a randomized, analyst-blinded, parallel-controlled trial with a 12-week intervention and 8-week follow-up. A total of 208 patients of age 20-60 years will be recruited. The patients will be randomly divided into a PLWNT Qigong exercise group (PLWNT Group) and a control group treated with cognitive behavioral therapy at a ratio of 1:1. Participants from the treatment groups will be taught by a highly qualified professor at the Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine once a week and will be supervised via web during the remaining 6 days at home, over 12 consecutive weeks. The primary outcome will be the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory 20, while the secondary outcomes include the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, functional magnetic resonance imaging, gut microbiota, and peripheral blood.

Results

The study was approved by the ethics committee of Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine in March 2022 (Ethics Approval Number 2022SHL-KY-05). Recruitment started in July 2022. The intervention is scheduled to be completed in December 2024, and data collection will be completed by the end of January 2025. Over the 3-year recruitment period, 208 participants will be recruited. Data management is still in progress; therefore, data analysis has yet to be performed.

Conclusions

This randomized trial will evaluate the effectiveness of the PLWNT method in relieving fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, and gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with CFS. If proven effective, it will provide a promising alternative intervention for patients with CFS.

Trial Registration

China Clinical Trials Registry ChiCTR2200061229; https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=162803

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/53347
The Use of Metabolomes in Risk Stratification of Heart Failure Patients: Protocol for a Scoping Review
Authors: Adamu Umar Gati , Badianyama Marheb , Mpanya Dineo , Maseko Muzi , Tsabedze Nqoba
Published: February 2024

Background

Heart failure (HF) is a significant health problem that is often associated with major morbidity and mortality. Metabolic abnormalities occur in HF and may be used to identify individuals at risk of developing the condition. Furthermore, these metabolic changes may play a role in the pathogenesis and progression of HF. Despite this knowledge, the utility of metabolic changes in diagnosis, management, prognosis, and therapy for patients with chronic HF has not been systematically reviewed.

Objective

This scoping review aims to systematically appraise the literature on metabolic changes in patients with HF, describe the role of these changes in pathogenesis, progression, and care, and identify knowledge gaps to inform future research.

Methods

This review will be conducted using a strategy based on previous reports, the JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis, and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. A comprehensive search of electronic databases (Medline, EBSCOhost, Scopus, and Web of Science) will be conducted using keywords related to HF, myocardial failure, metabolomes, metabonomics, and analytical chemistry techniques. The search will include original peer-reviewed research papers (clinical studies conducted on humans and systematic reviews with or without a meta-analysis) published between January 2010 and September 2023. Studies that include patients with HF younger than 18 years or those not published in English will be excluded. Two authors (UGA and MB) will screen the titles and abstracts independently and perform a full-text screen of the relevant and eligible papers. Relevant data will be extracted and synthesized, and a third author or group will be consulted to resolve discrepancies.

Results

This scoping review will span from January 2010 to September 2023, and the results will be published in a peer-reviewed, open-access journal as a scoping review in 2024. The presentation of the findings will use the PRISMA-ScR flow diagram and descriptive and narrative formats, including tables and graphical displays, to provide a comprehensive overview of the extracted data.

Conclusions

This review aims to collect and analyze the available evidence on metabolic changes in patients with HF, aiming to enhance our current understanding of this topic. Additionally, this review will identify the most commonly used and suitable sample, analytical method, and specific metabolomes to facilitate standardization, reproducibility of results, and application in the diagnosis, treatment, and risk stratification of patients with HF. Finally, it is hoped that this review’s outcomes will inspire further research into the metabolomes of patients with HF in low- and middle-income countries.

Trial Registration

Open Science Framework; https://osf.io/sp6xj

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/53905
Comparison of Spontaneous Pushing and Directed Pushing During the Second Stage of Labor Among Chinese Women Without Epidural Analgesia: Protocol for a Noninferior Feasibility Study
Authors: Yao Jiasi , Roth Heike , Anderson Debra , Lu Hong , Rong Huijuan , Baird Kathleen
Published: February 2024

Background

Maternal pushing during the second stage of labor could influence labor progress and maternal-neonatal outcomes. Although the image of health care providers directing the laboring women to push during the second stage of labor could be commonly observed globally, this practice is not sufficiently researched and is questioned regarding its effectiveness and outcomes on the mother and baby. Meanwhile, a strategy referred to as “spontaneous pushing,” which supports women to push by following their bodily urges, has been evaluated in several trials. However, in China, spontaneous pushing is not common practice. Notwithstanding the evaluation of spontaneous pushing, there is a lack of high-quality evidence to support either strategies of directed pushing or spontaneous pushing.

Objective

This study aims to test the feasibility of a future randomized controlled trial to compare the effects of spontaneous pushing and directed pushing during the second stage of labor for maternal and neonatal outcomes in China.

Methods

A nonrandomized, single-group, noninferiority feasibility study will be conducted in a public hospital in Hebei Province, China. In total, 105 women meeting the selection criteria will be recruited to receive the intervention (spontaneous pushing), while 105 sets of medical notes from women who received routine care (directed pushing) will be identified and reviewed to compare outcomes for both cohorts. A mixed methods approach will be used to assess primary outcomes (feasibility and acceptability) and secondary outcomes (effectiveness).

Results

Data collection took place between May and October 2023. A total of 110 women were invited to participate in the intervention of spontaneous pushing. Midwives’ interviews were conducted and will be transcribed for analysis in March 2024. The data analysis is planned to be completed by May 2024.

Conclusions

This feasibility study will provide important information by conducting a full-scale clinical trial in the future as well as the potential facilitators and barriers of it. A future randomized controlled trial is likely to have considerable policy and funding impacts regarding pushing management during the second stage of labor and improvement in women’s childbirth experience.

Trial Registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Register ChiCTR2300071178; https://tinyurl.com/mudtnbft

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/55701