bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What’s the harm? Results of an active surveillance adverse event reporting system for chiropractors and physiotherapists
Authors: Pohlman Katherine A. , Funabashi Martha , O’Beirne Maeve , Cassidy J. David , Hill Michael D. , Hurwitz Eric L. , Kawchuk Gregory , Mior Silvano , Ibrahim Quazi , Thiel Haymo , Westaway Michael , Yager Jerome , Vohra Sunita
Published: August 2024

This prospective, community-based, active surveillance study aimed to report the incidence of moderate, severe, and serious adverse events (AEs) after chiropractic (n = 100) / physiotherapist (n = 50) visit in offices throughout North America between October-2015 and December-2017. Three content-validated questionnaires were used to collect AE information: two completed by the patient (pre-treatment [T0] and 2–7 days post-treatment [T2]) and one completed by the provider immediately post-treatment [T1]. Any new or worsened symptom was considered an AE and further classified as mild, moderate, severe or serious. From the 42 participating providers (31 chiropractors; 11 physiotherapists), 3819 patient visits had complete T0 and T1 assessments. The patients were on average 50±18 years of age and 62.5% females. Neck/back pain was the most common presenting condition (70.0%) with 24.3% of patients reporting no condition/preventative care. From the patients visits with a complete T2 assessment (n = 2136 patient visits, 55.9%), 21.3% reported an AE, of which: 7.9% were mild, 6.2% moderate, 3.7% severe, 1.5% serious, and 2.0% had missing severity rating. The most common symptoms reported with moderate or higher severity were discomfort/pain, stiffness, difficulty walking and headache. This study provides valuable information for patients and providers regarding incidence and severity of AEs following patient visits in multiple community-based professions. These findings can be used to inform patients of what AEs may occur and future research opportunities can focus on mitigating common AEs.
“I was given PrEP, but had no privacy”: Mystery shopper perspectives of PrEP counseling for adolescent girls and young women in Kisumu County, Kenya
Authors: Vera Melissa , Aketch Helen , Omom Caroline , Otieno Felix , Owiti George , Sila Joseph , Kinuthia John , Beima-Sofie Kristin , Pintye Jillian , Kemunto Valarie , Akim Eunita , John-Stewart Grace , Kohler Pamela
Published: August 2024

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is being scaled up to prevent HIV acquisition among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in Eastern and Southern Africa. In a prior study more than one-third of AGYW ‘mystery shoppers’ stated they would not return to care based on interactions with health providers. We examined the experiences of AGYW in this study to identify main barriers to effective PrEP services. Unannounced patient actors (USP/‘mystery shoppers’) posed as AGYWs seeking PrEP using standardized scenarios 8 months after providers had received training to improve PrEP services. We conducted targeted debriefings using open-ended questions to assess PrEP service provision and counseling quality with USPs immediately following their visit. Debriefings were audio-recorded and transcribed. Transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis to explore why USPs reported either positive or negative encounters. We conducted 91 USP debriefings at 24 facilities and identified three primary influences on PrEP service experiences: 1) Privacy improved likelihood of continuing care, 2) respectful attitudes created a safe environment for USPs, and 3) patient-centered communication improved the experience and increased confidence for PrEP initiation among USPs. Privacy and provider attitudes were primary drivers that influenced decision-making around PrEP in USP debriefs. Access to privacy and improving provider attitudes is important for scale-up of PrEP to AGYW.
Tele-medicine controlled hospital at home is associated with better outcomes than hospital stay
Authors: Zychlinski Noa , Fluss Ronen , Goldberg Yair , Zubli Daniel , Barkai Galia , Zimlichman Eyal , Segal Gad
Published: August 2024

Background

Hospital-at-home (HAH) is increasingly becoming an alternative for in-hospital stay in selected clinical scenarios. Nevertheless, there is still a question whether HAH could be a viable option for acutely ill patients, otherwise hospitalized in departments of general-internal medicine.

Methods

This was a retrospective matched study, conducted at a telemedicine controlled HAH department, being part of a tertiary medical center. The objective was to compare clinical outcomes of acutely ill patients (both COVID-19 and non-COVID) admitted to either in-hospital or HAH. Non-COVID patients had one of three acute infectious diseases: urinary tract infections (UTI, either lower or upper), pneumonia, or cellulitis.

Results

The analysis involved 159 HAH patients (64 COVID-19 and 95 non-COVID) who were compared to a matched sample of in-hospital patients (192 COVID-19 and 285 non-COVID). The median length-of-hospital stay (LOS) was 2 days shorter in the HAH for both COVID-19 patients (95% CI: 1–3; p = 0.008) and non-COVID patients (95% CI; 1–3; p < 0.001). The readmission rates within 30 days were not significantly different for both COVID-19 patients (Odds Ratio (OR) = 1; 95% CI: 0.49–2.04; p = 1) and non-COVID patients (OR = 0.7; 95% CI; 0.39–1.28; p = 0.25). The differences remained insignificant within one year. The risk of death within 30 days was significantly lower in the HAH group for COVID-19 patients (OR = 0.34; 95% CI: 0.11–0.86; p = 0.018) and non-COVID patients (OR = 0.38; 95% CI: 0.14–0.9; p = 0.019). For one year survival period, the differences were significant for COVID-19 patients (OR = 0.5; 95% CI: 0.31–0.9; p = 0.044) and insignificant for non-COVID patients (OR = 0.63; 95% CI: 0.4–1; p = 0.052).

Conclusions

Care for acutely ill patients in the setting of telemedicine-based hospital at home has the potential to reduce hospitalization length without increasing readmission risk and to reduce both 30 days and one-year mortality rates.
Evaluation of oral health services and challenges faced by oral health practitioners working in Nyarugenge, Rwanda
Authors: Nzabonimana Emmanuel , Malele-Kolisa Yolanda , Hlongwa Phumzile
Published: August 2024

Objective

Oral healthcare professionals encounter considerable challenges while providing services to curb the oral disease burden. The aim of this study was to explore the challenges faced by oral health practitioners providing oral health services in Nyarugenge, Rwanda and to appraise the availability and adequacy of oral hygiene equipment, instruments, and materials.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional concurrent mixed methods study. The quantitative and qualitative parts were independent during data collection and analyses and merged during the interpretation phase. All seven public health facilities and 14 dental professionals working in Nyarugenge were included in the study. Data were collected using an audit checklist and an in-depth interview guide. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the quantitative data. The interviews were analyzed using thematic content analysis.

Results

Most of the dental health professionals were dental therapists (n = 11), women (n = 9), aged 31–40 years (n = 7), and with 11–20 years’ experience as oral health practitioners (n = 6). There were five health centers and two hospitals that were audited for equipment, instruments, and materials. The audit of the facilities revealed that most facilities have dental equipment and instruments, but none have adequate preventive dental instruments and materials. Four broad themes emerged from the interviews with the oral health practitioners, namely human resources, supply chain management, patients’ oral health awareness and service rendering, and strategic management and administration. The most significant challenges oral health practitioners faced included high dental practitioner/patient ratios, lack of adequate and appropriate equipment and materials, patients’ lack of oral health awareness, and a lack of administrative support.

Conclusions

Well-established community preventive interventions, such as a mobile oral health App, could reduce the patient/provider ratio by increasing population awareness of oral health and encouraging healthy behaviours. The management of the health facilities should address the human resource challenges and equipment supply chain issues.
MprF-mediated immune evasion is necessary for Lactiplantibacillus plantarum resilience in the Drosophila gut during inflammation
Authors: Arias-Rojas Aranzazu , Arifah Adini Q. , Angelidou Georgia , Alshaar Belal , Schombel Ursula , Forest Emma , Frahm Dagmar , Brinkmann Volker , Paczia Nicole , Beisel Chase L. , Gisch Nicolas , Iatsenko Igor
Published: August 2024

Multiple peptide resistance factor (MprF) confers resistance to cationic antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) in several pathogens, thereby enabling evasion of the host immune response. The role of MprF in commensals remains, however, uncharacterized. To close this knowledge gap, we used a common gut commensal of animals, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, and its natural host, the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster, as an experimental model to investigate the role of MprF in commensal-host interactions. The L. plantarum ΔmprF mutant that we generated exhibited deficiency in the synthesis of lysyl-phosphatidylglycerol (Lys-PG), resulting in increased negative cell surface charge and increased susceptibility to AMPs. Susceptibility to AMPs had no effect on ΔmprF mutant’s ability to colonize guts of uninfected flies. However, we observed significantly reduced abundance of the ΔmprF mutant after infection-induced inflammation in the guts of wild-type flies but not of flies lacking AMPs. Additionally, we found that the ΔmprF mutant compared to wild-type L. plantarum induces a stronger intestinal immune response in flies due to the increased release of immunostimulatory peptidoglycan fragments, indicating an important role of MprF in promoting host tolerance to commensals. Our further analysis suggests that MprF-mediated lipoteichoic acid modifications are involved in host immunomodulation. Overall, our results demonstrate that MprF, besides its well-characterized role in pathogen immune evasion and virulence, is also an important commensal resilience factor.
ECONOMY ISSUES IN THE MALAYSIAN AGRICULTURAL SECTOR: A COMPARATIVE STUDY
Authors: Yang Yu , Khalid Nur Ajrun , Jenal Kamarul Rizal , Abd Rashid Mohd Rizal , Cui YiBo
Published: August 2024

For a substantial portion of the world, particularly in rural areas where agriculture is the primary source of income, the agricultural sector plays a significant role. However, in high-income countries, the contribution of agriculture to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is generally lower, often less than 5%. The reason for this is that these countries have a more diverse economic structure and advanced industrial and service sectors. Malaysia has ideal climatic and soil conditions that are well-suited for the palm oil industrial market. Then, how does the agricultural sector contribute to employment and the SDGs? Furthermore, the implementation of sustainable practices has implications for the economy, technological advancements, challenges, and future opportunities. This study is a comparative study that focusses on the economic issues within the agricultural sector of Malaysia.
Development of Lion’s Mane Mushroom Extract-Loaded Polyvinyl Alcohol/Chitosan Hydrogel Film Composites for Controlled Release of Ergosterol
Authors: Joradon Pinida , Rungsardthong Vilai , Thumthanaruk Benjawan , Vatanyoopaisarn Savitri , Ruktanonchai Uracha , Suttisintong Khomson , Mendes Ana C.
Published: August 2024

Ergosterol is the most prevalent sterol in microbial membranes, which shows a hypoglycemic effect that can be used to treat type 2 diabetes. However, ergosterol has restricted bioavailability and low free-form solubility in hydrophilic conditions. This research aimed to evaluate the properties of bioactive compounds, ergosterol, from Lion's Mane mushroom (LM) mushroom extract and entrap them in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and chitosan (CS) hydrogel film composites with/without the crosslinker tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) to increase the solubility of ergosterol. Ergosterol-enriched extract (37.17 mg/g extract) was extracted from the LM by supercritical fluid extraction using CO2 (SCFE-CO2). LM extract showed no cytotoxic effects on the fibroblast cells, with cell viability ranging from 94.60–97.40%, increased cell proliferation, and wound-healing activity at 1 mg/mL of LM extract. Scanning Electron Microscopy revealed that the film exhibited a homogenous structure with swelling ability. The release rate of ergosterol from the film was relatively higher during 30 to 60 min of submersion in phosphate buffer. LM extract-loaded PVA/CS hydrogel film composites have a high potential for wound-healing applications in medical settings. This research challenges further investigation for alternative treatments and offering aids for efficiency improvement in wound-healing. The longer release rate of LM extracts should be investigated in future work.
Biochar Microparticles from Pomegranate Peel Waste: Literature Review and Experiments in Isotherm Adsorption of Ammonia
Authors: Dani Nandiyanto Asep Bayu , Putri Adisti Eka , Fiandini Meli , Ragadhita Risti , Kurniawan Teguh
Published: August 2024

This research aimed to synthesize biochar microparticles from pomegranate peel waste for ammonia adsorption. This research also focused on analyzing adsorption isotherm and kinetics models to understand the mechanism of ammonia adsorption on the biochar. The experiments were conducted by carbonizing pomegranate peel waste. The carbonized material was then milled and sieved to obtain biochar microparticles with a certain size (i.e. 500, 1000, and 2000 μm). The particles were then characterized using microscopy and infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to identify particle morphology and functional groups. The prepared particles were then used for the ammonium adsorption process, and compared with ten isotherm models (such as Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, Dubinin-Radushkevich, Jovanovic, Halsey, Harkin-Jura, Flory-Huggins, Fowler-Guggenheim, and Hill-Deboer) to identify the adsorption mechanism. Adsorption kinetic analysis was also performed to identify the adsorption rate of the prepared particles using first-order and second-order pseudo-kinetic models. The adsorption isotherm model informed that ammonia adsorption on biochar with sizes of 2000 μm (large) and 1000 μm (medium) occurs in a multilayer process with physical interaction accompanied by pore filling. Meanwhile, small biochar (500 μm) indicates that the ammonia adsorption process occurs on homogeneous sites with physical interaction through pore filling. From the results of fitting the isotherm model, information about the maximum adsorption capacity for each size of 2000, 1000, and 500 μm are 65.631, 62.231, and 50.086 mg/g, respectively. Overall, the adsorption mechanism occurring on biochar involves interactions among ammonia molecules that repel each other under endothermic conditions. The largest adsorption capacity was obtained for biochar with sizes of 2000 μm. Analysis of adsorption kinetics showed that the adsorption process follows a first-order pseudo-kinetic model, indicating an adsorption mechanism controlled by intraparticle diffusion. This study concludes that biochar from pomegranate peel is prospective for use as an environmentally friendly adsorbent for ammonia removal applications from wastewater, offering a sustainable and effective alternative adsorbent to existing water treatment technologies and solving current issues in the sustainable development goals (SDGs).
Permutation Flowshop Scheduling in ED Aluminium Using Metaheuristic Approaches
Authors: Manalu Haposan Vincentius , Widyanti Fatiha , Normasari Nur Mayke Eka , Oktavia Andiny Trie , Rifai Achmad Pratama
Published: August 2024

This study proposes metaheuristics to solve the permutation flowshop scheduling problem in ED Aluminium which produces kitchen utensils. The aim is to find the processing sequence of products that results in the shortest total completion time, minimizing makespan and total flowtime. Three metaheuristics are developed, which are Simulated Annealing (SA), Large Neighborhood Search (LNS), and Ant Colony Optimization (ACO). Experiments are performed in this research to evaluate the three algorithms. The result using the simulated annealing algorithm is considered better because it has a shorter makespan. The contribution of this study is developing Simulated Annealing, Large Neighborhood Search, and Ant Colony Optimization to solve the problem.
Distribution Design of Bottled Mineral Water ‘Airku’ with Distribution Requirement Planning Method (DRP)
Authors: Tejakusuma Trio Yonathan , Nisa Atika Khoirun , Martanti Vindy Fitriana
Published: August 2024

PDAM Tirta Binangun Kulon Progo is a regional manufacturing company that produce gallon, cup and bottle packing mineral drinking water branded AirKu. The company use multi-echelon distribution network for the distribution system. Common problem that encountered by the company is insufficient or exceeded amount of product as a result of fluctuating demand from Agentt, furthermore the Agentt often find it hard to estimate the exact time for product to arrived. PDAM Tirta Binangun need a reliable model of planning and inventory system, and the method that can be used on their multi-echelon network distribution system is Distribution Requirement Planning (DRP). Distribution Requirement Planning is used to determine distribution activity that depend upon safety stock, lead time, inventory cost, order cost, and demand’s forecast. The model is designed based on lot size that have the optimal cost to determine the gross requirement total, project on hand, net requirement, planned order receipt, planed order release and distribution cost. According to company’s document, interview, and calculation the proper lot is Wagner Within Algorithm, distribution cost paid by Agentt Aneka Usaha is Rp 1.768.076 for AirKu cup, Rp 781.388 for bottle AirKu, and Rp 174.275 for AirKu gallon. Distribution cost paid by Agentt Post Office is Rp 881.630 for AirKu cup, Rp 300.613 for bottle AirKu, and Rp 228.375 for AirKu gallon. Distribution cost paid by Agentt Umar is Rp 1.766. for AirKu cup, Rp 579.325 for bottle AirKu, and Rp 454.256 for AirKu gallon. Distribution cost paid by Agentt Joko Sendang is Rp 1.903.623 for AirKu cup, Rp 656.506 for bottle AirKu, and Rp 189.450 for AirKu gallon.
Identification of Causes in The Dirty Gas Pipeline in Oil and Gas Delivery Process at Job Pertamina Talisman Jambi Merang
Authors: Basuki Mahmud
Published: August 2024

Pigging is a routine maintenance method for cleaning the inner pipe surface. The treatment method uses an object called pig. In the world of piping, there are 4 (four) components that are very important and interrelated in carrying out pigging, namely pig launchers, piping systems, pig receivers, and pigs. Pig Launcher is a tool that is used to fire pigs into piping systems, while pigs are objects that are used according to their functions on surfaces in piping systems. The purpose of this study was to identify the cause of dirty gas pipelines in the oil and gas delivery process at JOB Pertamina Talisman Jambi Merang. From the results of the analysis and discussion, identified causes of dirty gas pipes, namely non-standard work procedures, no commitment to pigging activities from the management, non-standard equipment, use of non-standard and outdated anti-corrosion, lack of training on pigging, and low employee awareness of the importance of pigging.
Work Analysis of An Assembly Operation Using Therbligs
Authors: Le Anh
Published: August 2024

This study aims to analyze an assembly operation using work analysis technique. The LED bulb assembly operation
is studied because it is labor-intensive manufacturing. This operation requires highly repetitive motions of two hands of worker. Therbligs represent motions when worker assemble the parts. Therefore, Therbligs are used to analyze the movements of worker in this study. The results shown that the ineffective motions such as search, select and hold can be minimized or eliminated by using fixture and rearranging workstation.
Implementation of Class-Based Storage for Garment Accessories Warehouse Management Using FSN Analysis at PT. XYZ
Authors: Elquthb Jundi Nourfateha , Nugroho Lulu Riesta , Khasanah Annisa Uswatun
Published: August 2024

A manufacturing company has a close relationship with warehouse operations, which function as centres for storing and managing raw materials and finished products. Proper operational expertise is essential in warehouse management to ensure that all processes within the warehouse run smoothly. The warehouse is a meeting point for various raw materials with different specifications, making it highly susceptible to mismanagement. In this context, several issues have been identified in warehouse management, such as a lack of space or empty shelves, outdated data recording processes, and improper placement of raw materials. An analysis was conducted to identify accessory items in the warehouse based on their similarities using class-based storage to overcome these issues. In this study, the FSN (Fast, Slow, Non-moving) analysis method was used to determine the grouping of garment accessory items based on their production usage and movement in the warehouse. A total of 37 types of accessory items were identified, with the majority, 23 items, classified as fast-moving, indicated by a high turnover rate above 3. The remaining items were categorized as slow-moving and non-moving, with turnover rates below three due to their lower movement. The turnover rate indicates how often or quickly an item moves and is used (enters and exits the warehouse). Thus, several underlying causes of the issues hindering the distribution process in the garment accessories warehouse at PT XYZ were identified. Subsequently, several recommendations were provided for warehouse management, such as improving the layout according to item grouping and conducting regular evaluations to ensure a balanced availability of space and stock. This strategy is crucial for enhancing workers' productivity in the garment accessories warehouse.
9/11 Trauma, Mental Health Consequences, Time, and Cognition: A Narrative-Based Study
Authors: Matinparsa Lida
Published: August 2024

A hermeneutical understanding of cultural trauma interpreting it as an unending process of intervention and meaning-making infers that next generations will keep acknowledging grievances of the past as momentous. Succeeding generations, despite the fact that they were not contemporary to the events in question, linger to recognize, express, and concede the wounds of the past by way of something that enlightens their identity as a group in the present. In this paper the mental health ramifications of Trauma by discussing the 9/11 incident are being discussed. Being disturbing and omnipresent, that is to say indelible, are the pivotal features to lead a trauma to be trauma both on the psychological and the cultural levels since the long-term effects of trauma “in the memories of an individual resemble the enduring effects of national trauma in collective consciousness. Dismissing or ignoring the traumatic experience is not a reasonable option.
PENGARUH LITERASI KEUANGAN, INKLUSI KEUANGAN DAN GAYA HIDUP HEDONISME TERHADAP PENGELOLAAN KEUANGAN MAHASISWA
Authors: Karamaha Radia
Published: August 2024

Abstrak: Abstrak: Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui dan menganalisis pengaruh Literasi keuangan, Inklusi keuangan dan Gaya Hidup Hedonisme terhadap pengelolaan keuangan mahasiswa Manajemen Fakultas Ekonomi dan Bisnis. Jenis penelitian ini menggunakan penelitian kuantitatif dari sumber data primer dengan teknik kuesioner yang disebarkan melalui google form, kepada 75 responden dengan menggunakan Teknik probability sampling dengan metode stratified random sampling  Teknik analisis data menggunakan uji validitas, uji reliabilitas, uji asumsi klasik, regresi linier berganda, uji t dan uji f. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa Literasi keuangan (X1), dan Inklusi keuangan (X2) berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap Pengelolaan Keuangan mahasiswa manajemen. Sedangkan Gaya Hidup Hedonisme berpengaruh negative terhadap Pengelolaan keuangan (Y) Mahasiswa manajemen. Kata Kunci: Literasi Keuangan. Inklusi Keuangan, Gaya Hidup Hedonisme, dan Pengelolaan Keuangan Mahasiswa
Habermas und Fanon über koloniale Herrschaft
Authors: Kempf Victor
Published: August 2024

From a decolonial perspective, Habermas’ theory is seen by many as Eurocentric and in philosophical alliance with colonial rule. In particular, his theory of progress is seen as offensive because it devalues non-Western ways of understanding in comparison to their modern Western counterparts. On the one hand, this is true. On the other hand, Habermas’ actual concept of progress can also be used to formulate a critique of colonialist development imperatives. Moreover, his concept of “systematically distorted communication” can make an interesting contribution to understanding colonial rule: even colonial rule is communicatively mediated, with the constant risk of dissent precariously held in check by racist discourse barriers. Fanon already provides strong starting points for this communication-theoretical view of colonial rule. With him, the decolonial struggles against racist discourse barriers also come into view.
Edith Stein über Species Sensibilis und Transzendentalen Idealismus
Authors: De Santis Daniele , Tropia Anna
Published: August 2024

This paper offers an assessment of some of the central aspects of Edith Stein’s conception of intentional acts proposed in Potency and Act. Studies Towards a Philosophy of Being. Her account hinges upon a combination of Thomistic and Husserlian concepts. She borrows from Aquinas two conceptual pairs that are central to his metaphysics and theory of knowledge: the actuality-potency dichotomy; and the distinction between sensible and intelligible species. The distinction and relevant articulation between sensible and intelligible species provide Stein with the basis to present her own conception of intentionality (with special focus on perception): the sensible species is regarded as the correlate of the object’s Gestalt; by contrast, the intelligible species is mobilised to account for what Husserl labels noesis-noema correlation. But Stein’s ambition is also to inscribe her account of the species sensibilis within an overall (critical) interpretation of Husserl’s transcendental idealism.

This work was supported by the Czech Science Foundation, financing the project “Intentionality and Person in Medieval Philosophy and Phenomenology” (GAČR 21-08256S).
New Technologies: End of Work or Structural Change?
Authors: Rademakers Emilie , Zierahn-Weilage Ulrich
Published: August 2024

This paper examines the impact of new technologies, particularly automation and artificial intelligence (AI), on labor markets. The existing literature documents ambiguous and only limited overall employment effects, while new technologies induce significant shifts in workforce composition. The implied firm-level productivity gains primarily benefit larger, skilled-labor-intensive firms. AI adoption remains limited but continues to reshape skill demands. The implied worker reallocation is costly, exacerbating inequality. This calls for policies such as targeted support for displaced workers, investment in education and skill development, promoting technology diffusion, and encouraging complementary human capital investments.
Phytochemical characterization, biochemical profiling and evaluation of anticancer potential of methanolic extract of Withania somnifera stem
Authors: Srivastava Aditi , Ahmad Rumana , Siddiqui Sahabjada , Mehrotra Sudhir , Khan Mohsin A.
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Phytotherapy employs phytoconstituents/phytomedicines derived from plants for treating and preventing illnesses. Withania somnifera is known in the Indian Ayurveda Pharmacopoeia for its medicinal applications and pharmacological properties. In this study, we examined the biological activity spectrum of Withania somnifera methanolic extract of stem (WSME), which is valued as a “Rasayana” due to its extensive range of medicinal uses.

Methods

WSME was subjected to TPC and TFC quantification and bioactive components were characterized using LC-MS. Its antioxidant potential was gauged by DPPH and H2O2 radical scavenging assays, while antibacterial efficacy was assessed against S. aureus and E. coli using disc diffusion assay. In vitro anticancer activity was evaluated against human breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells while toxicity was evaluated against normal Vero cells using MTT assay.

Results

WSME, rich in Withaferin A, showed TPC of 4.73 ± 0.15 mg GAE/g and TFC of 94.94 ± 6.15 mg QE/g dry weight of extract. It exhibited significant antioxidant activity (43.28 and 66.8 % inhibition at 1,000 μg/mL using DPPH and H2O2 assays, respectively) and mild antibacterial effects against S. aureus (300–500 mg/mL). WSME induced cell death in MDA-MB-231 cells and significantly inhibited their growth (IC50: 66 μg/mL, P value<0.05) without affecting normal Vero cells in the studied range of 25–400 μg/mL (IC50: 6.09 mg/mL, P value>0.05).

Conclusions

The present study lends support to further testing of WSME against other cancer cell lines and animal models of cancer. These preclinical studies would provide further validation to its prospective use as an adjunct in human breast cancer therapy.
Urinary biomarkers NG AL and beta-2 microglobulin in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Sachan Nimisha , Dabas Aashima , Mantan Mukta , Dabla Pradeep K.
Published: August 2024

Objectives

To study the urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) and beta-2-microglobulin (β2M) levels as markers of tubular damage in children with type 1 diabetes (T1DM).

Methods

Forty T1DM children and 40 age-matched controls were enrolled. Subjects with coexisting kidney disorder, intake of oral glucose lowering drugs and syndromic diabetes mellitus were excluded. Fasting plasma glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), kidney function, urinary albumin-creatinine ratio (UACR), NGAL and β2M were measured and compared in cases and controls.

Results

The median (IQR) age of cases and controls was 10.6 (8, 14.2) and 10.7 (8.4, 13.7) years, respectively. Cases had disease duration of 4 (3, 6.8) years and HbA1c 10.9 (9, 13.1) %. Microalbuminuria was seen in 14 (35 %). Median (IQR) levels of UACR were higher in cases than controls [19.38 (10.27, 35.26) and 6.49 (3.10, 11.65) µg/mg; p<0.001], similarly NGAL/creatinine [352.21 (191.49, 572.45) and 190.54 (125.91, 322.83) ng/mg; p=0.006], unlike β2M/creatinine [1.7 (0.43, 6.02) and 2.12 (1.05, 4.47) µg/mg; p=0.637]. Children with higher HbA1c (≥10 %) had higher urinary ACR and tubular biomarkers than HbA1c<10 % (p>0.05). Urinary ACR showed positive correlation with NGAL/creatinine (r=0.38, p=0.019) and β2M/creatinine (r=0.42, p=0.009).

Conclusions

Urinary biomarkers NGAL and β2M were elevated in the presence of normal urinary microalbumin levels suggestive of early tubular damage in T1DM.
A customised fetal growth and birthweight standard for Qatar: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Farrell Thomas , Minisha Fathima , Khenyab Najat , Ali Najah Mohammed , Al Obaidly Sawsan , Yaqoub Salwa Abu , Pallivalappil Abdul Rouf , Al-Dewik Nader , AlRifai Hilal , Hugh Oliver , Gardosi Jason
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Customized birthweight centiles have improved the detection of small for gestational age (SGA) and large for gestational age (LGA) babies compared to existing population standards. This study used perinatal registry data to derive coefficients for developing customized growth charts for Qatar.

Methods

The PEARL registry data on women delivering in Qatar (2017–2018) was used to develop a multivariable linear regression model predicting optimal birthweight. Physiological variables included gestational age, maternal height, weight, ethnicity, parity, and sex of the baby. Pathological variables such as hypertension, preexisting and gestational diabetes and smoking were calculated and excluded to derive the optimal weight at term.

Results

The regression model found a term optimal birthweight of 3,235 g for a Qatari nationality mother with median height (159 cm), booking weight (72 kg), parity (1) and gestation at birth (276 days) at the end of an uncomplicated pregnancy. Constitutional coefficients significantly affecting birthweight were gestational age, height, weight, and parity. The main pathological factors were preexisting diabetes (increase by +175.7 g) and smoking (decrease by −190.9 g). The SGA and LGA rates in the entire cohort after applying the population-specific customized centiles were 11.1 and 12.2 %, respectively (contrasting with the Hadlock standard: SGA-26.3 % and LGA-1.8 %, and Fenton standard: SGA-12.9 % and LGA-4.0 %).

Conclusions

Constitutional and pathological variations in fetal growth and birthweight apply in the maternity population in Qatar and have been quantified to allow the generation of customised charts for better identification of pregnancies with abnormal growth. Currently in-use population standards may misdiagnose many SGA and LGA babies.
Military Outlays and Economic Growth: A Nonlinear Disaggregated Analysis for a Developed Economy
Authors: Tsitouras Antonis , Tsounis Nicholas
Published: August 2024

There is a dearth of comprehensive studies examining the compositional and asymmetric effects of defence spending on simultaneous economic growth. This study uses the Nonlinear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (NARDL) approach to analyse how disaggregated defence spending affects economic growth in Greece in the short and long term. The results hold significant theoretical and practical policy implications. First, military spending boosts economic growth in the short term but hampers it in the long run. Second, the long-term effects of positive and negative defence spending shocks are distinct, with positive shocks more detrimental to economic growth than the benefits of negative shocks. Finally, our study reveals that personnel expenditures have the most significant and enduring effects on economic growth compared to other military spending categories. Based on these results, Greece should adopt a new defence doctrine that relies on extensive personnel reserves, prioritises state intelligence and production technology, and promotes domestic military equipment over expensive foreign options.
Migration Preferences Under Economic and Geopolitical Uncertainty: An Asymmetric Approach
Authors: Palaios Panagiotis , Chatzimichailidou Aikaterini
Published: August 2024

This paper aims at assessing asymmetric dynamics among migration preferences and various security and economic factors, focusing on the movements from Syria to Turkey and then to the EU via the Greek sea borders (2010M1−2022M12). We perform an economic analysis by developing a utility model, according to which migration preferences depend on security and employment and empirically test asymmetric responses of migration to corresponding shocks. We contribute to the literature by finding that migration is downwards sticky. Despite that theories of international relations may not be monolithic, the magnitude of security impact on migration implies that the state remains the primary actor responsible for managing this phenomenon, which brings us closer to neo-realism theory of International Relations (IR). Our findings reveal the factors that lead to the downwards stickiness of migration thus contributing to a better understating of the incentives for migration and to the formulation of more efficient policies.
Wie Roboter die Welt (und das Wirtschaften) verändern: Ein Überblick über Daten, Forschungsergebnisse und wirtschaftspolitische Strategien
Authors: Jurkat Anne , Klump Rainer , Schneider Florian
Published: August 2024

Der industrielle Einsatz von Robotern und die damit verbundenen Veränderungen wirtschaftlicher und sozialer Beziehungen sind ein schnell wachsendes Forschungsfeld. In diesem Beitrag geben Anne Jurkat, Rainer Klump und Florian Schneider einen Überblick über Datenquellen und aktuelle Ergebnisse der empirischen Forschung zum Robotereinsatz. Nach einer Präsentation der thematischen Schwerpunkte der Forschung erörtern sie die unterschiedlichen Analyseebenen und die drei zentralen Wirkungseffekte des Robotereinsatzes (Produktivitäts-, Substitutions- und Wiedereinsetzungseffekt). Abschließend analysieren sie die aktuellen wirtschaftspolitischen Strategien zum Umgang mit Robotik in Deutschland, die auf die Sicherung von Wettbewerbsfähigkeit und technologischer Souveränität abzielen.
The effect of rare earths (Nd3+, Er3+, Yb3+) additives on the radiation shielding properties of the tungsten oxide modified tellurite glasses
Authors: Kaban Ömer , Cengiz Gülçin Bilgici , Çağlar İlyas , Bilir Gökhan
Published: August 2024

In this study, we have reported on the effect of the rare earth oxides on the radiation protection performance of the tellurite glasses. In order to determine the effect of rare earth oxides on the radiation shielding properties of tungsten oxide (WO3) modified tellurite glasses, three rare earth element oxides (Nd2O3, Yb2O3, and Er2O3) have been selected. The glass systems have been synthesized using the traditional melt quenching method and were doped with the different amount (1 %, 3 %, 5 %) of the oxides of rare earth elements (Nd2O3, Yb2O3, Er2O3). The linear attenuation coefficient, mass attenuation coefficient, half value layer, and effective atomic number of the synthesized samples were experimentally measured for 662, 1,173 and 1,332 keV gamma-ray energies which were emitted from 137Cs and 60Co radioactive sources. Measurements were conducted in narrow beam transmission geometry using a NaI(Tl) scintillation detector. In addition, all these parameters were calculated theoretically using the WinXCOM program in the energy region of 0.015–15 MeV. The addition of different types and amounts of rare earth oxides to the tellurite glass system was found to significantly enhance the radiation protection performance of the glasses. In particular, it was found that the radiation shielding characteristics of the glasses improved with increasing amount of rare earth doping, the TWYb5 glass system had the best radiation shielding properties, and there was a trend among the doped rare earth oxides in the form of Yb > Er > Nd according to their radiation shielding performance.
Calibration and Validation of S3F Sensor for Measuring Normal and Shear Stresses in Soil
Authors: Alqrinawi Hussein , Lin Hai , Chen Shengli , Rogoshchchenkov Nikolay , Lawrence Michael , Ryan Colleen , Palluconi Steve
Published: August 2024

Innovative sensors can provide new capabilities to monitor and understand the behavior of soil, rock, and geo-structures and help geotechnical engineers make informed decisions about the construction and maintenance of geo-structures. This study introduced, calibrated, and validated one such sensor, the Surface Stress Sensitive Film (S3F) point sensor, for both normal and shear stress measurements in soil and along the soil–structure interface. The measurements of the S3F sensor rely on the deformation of an elastic film that is monitored by a magnetic floating element embedded in the elastic film and a Hall effect sensor. This sensor provides measurements of the 3-D deformation of the film, which are converted to normal and shear stresses using an a priori calibration. The calibrations of the S3F sensor were performed considering the effect of the loading areas, loading and unloading conditions, and soil particle sizes. Then, the performance of the S3F sensor to measure the normal stresses in soil and shear stresses at the soil–wooden block interface under static tension and pull-out conditions was evaluated. It was found that the normal stress calibration curves depended on the sizes of the loading areas because of the stiff housing boundary effect. However, the shear stress calibration curves were independent of the loading areas. The S3F sensor showed an ability to measure normal stresses in three different types of soils, including two silica sands from Ottawa, Illinois, with particle sizes ranging between sieve No. 20 and 30 (Ottawa 20/30 sand) and sieve No. 50 and 70 (Ottawa 50/70 sand) and finely ground silica silt (Sil-Co-Sil). The S3F sensor also showed an ability to measure the shear stresses at the soil–structure interface, which match well with the theoretical shear stresses. The S3F sensor has potential for stress measurements at the soil–structure interfaces in foundations, tunnels, pipes, and retaining systems.
The Projection-Specific Noradrenergic Modulation of Perseverative Spatial Behavior in Adult Male Rats
Authors: Kabanova Anna , Fedorov Leonid , Eschenko Oxana
Published: August 2024

Adaptive behavior relies on efficient cognitive control. The anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) is a key node within the executive prefrontal network. The reciprocal connectivity between the locus ceruleus (LC) and ACC is thought to support behavioral reorganization triggered by the detection of an unexpected change. We transduced LC neurons with either excitatory or inhibitory chemogenetic receptors in adult male rats and trained rats on a spatial task. Subsequently, we altered LC activity and confronted rats with an unexpected change of reward locations. In a new spatial context, rats with decreased noradrenaline (NA) in the ACC entered unbaited maze arms more persistently which was indicative of perseveration. In contrast, the suppression of the global NA transmission reduced perseveration. Neither chemogenetic manipulation nor inactivation of the ACC by muscimol affected the rate of learning, possibly due to partial virus transduction of the LC neurons and/or the compensatory engagement of other prefrontal regions. Importantly, we observed behavioral deficits in rats with LC damage caused by virus injection. The latter finding highlights the importance of careful histological assessment of virus-transduced brain tissue as inadvertent damage of the targeted cell population due to virus neurotoxicity or other factors might cause unwanted side effects. Although the specific role of ACC in the flexibility of spatial behavior has not been convincingly demonstrated, our results support the beneficial role of noradrenergic transmission for an optimal function of the ACC. Overall, our findings suggest the LC exerts the projection-specific modulation of neural circuits mediating the flexibility of spatial behavior.
Polythiophene/graphene oxide thin films: optical properties
Authors:   University Autonomous of Nuevo Leon, Faculty of Chemical Sciences, Materials Laboratory I, Avenida Universidad, Ciudad Universitaria, 66455, San Nicolás de los Garza, N.L. Mexico., Martínez J. , Retana F. ,   University Autonomous of Nuevo Leon, Faculty of Chemical Sciences, Materials Laboratory I, Avenida Universidad, Ciudad Universitaria, 66455, San Nicolás de los Garza, N.L. Mexico., Gómez I. ,   University Autonomous of Nuevo Leon, Faculty of Chemical Sciences, Materials Laboratory I, Avenida Universidad, Ciudad Universitaria, 66455, San Nicolás de los Garza, N.L. Mexico.
Published: August 2024

Thin films of polythiophene/graphene oxide (PTh/GO) were prepared using chronoamperometry. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), UV-Vis spectroscopy, and photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL) were used for characterization purposes. PTh and PTh/GO thin films were achieved through chronoamperometry at a constant anodic potential of +1.9 V vs. Ag/AgCl. The PTh/GO thin films exhibited visible light absorption. The thicknesses of the thin films were approximately 2.42 µm.
Synthesis of PPy- Nd2O3 nano-composite for utilization in supercapacitor applications
Authors:   Department of Physics, College of Science, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq, Hameed F. J. , Ibrahim I. M. ,   University of Baghdad, College of Science, Department of Physics, Baghdad, Iraq
Published: August 2024

In this study, chemical oxidation was employed for the synthesis of polypyrrole (PPy) nanofiber. Furthermore, PPy has been subjected to treatment using nanoparticles of neodymium oxide (Nd2O3), which were produced and added in a certain ratio. The inquiry centered on the structural characteristics of the blend of polypyrrole and neodymium oxide after their combination. The investigation utilises X-ray diffraction (XRD), FTIR, and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM) for PPy, 10%, 30%, and 50% by volume of Nd2O3. According to the electrochemical tests, it has been noted that the nanocomposites exhibit a substantial amount of pseudocapacitive activity.
SILAR deposition and characterization of ZnO films for numerical investigation as electron transport layer in solar cells
Authors:   Research and Development Centre, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, India – 641 046, Sreedev P. , Rakhesh V. ,   Department of Physics, Amrita School of Physical Sciences, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Amritapuri, India -690525
Published: August 2024

The SILAR method of thin film deposition has attracted the scientific community over the years due to its easiness, low cost, availability of room temperature deposition, and more over due to the variation in properties of thin films available by varying deposition parameters.This work is carried out in a way to comprehensively compare two ZnO thin film samples prepared from precursor media with Zinc Acetate (S1) and Zinc Chloride(S2) salts deposited by SILAR method in Perovskite Solar cell applications. The XRD, FTIR, Raman, FESEM, and UV-Visible analysis were carried out for identifying the structural, morphological, and optical quality of these samples. The role of these samples as Electron Transport Layer (ETL) in Perovskite Solar cell were identified using General purpose PhotoVoltaic Device model (GPVDM) simulation software which is well adapted for studying Solar cell architecture. It provided the output Solar cell parameters like Jsc, Voc, FF, PCE, etc and by varying the active layer and Hole Transport Layer (HTL) thicknesses, the optimized efficiency of devices with samples S1 and S2 were obtained as 21.88% and 21.96%.The results showed that SILAR-synthesized ZnO thin films could be potential candidates for ETL applications in Perovskite Solar cells.
Effects of Exposure to the Hormone Cortisol in Pregnant Women on Body Weight and Length at Birth of Babies: A Prospective Study
Authors: Sudirman Jumrah , Sampara Nurqalbi , Muzakkir Muzakkir , K Hairuddin , Darmiati Darmiati , K Rahayu Eryanti , Anwar Khalidatul Khair , Saleng Hasriani
Published: August 2024

Other mental disorders with a reasonably high prevalence are pregnancy stress of 92.8% and anxiety of 32.6%. Pregnancy pressure can potentially cause low birth weight and small head circumference. In addition, stress during pregnancy will affect neurobehavioral development, ACTH, cortisol, norepinephrine, and epinephrine levels in neonates. This study aims to assess cortisol exposure in pregnancy with birth weight and birth length in infants. This study uses a cohort study approach. The sample in this study was the third-trimester pregnant women many as 152 respondents. The research instrument used checklist sheets and laboratory tests using the ELISA method. The resulting data were processed using the unpaired t-test and the Pearson correlation test. The results showed a correlation between cortisol levels and birth weight with a value of p = 0.004 0.05 and a value of r = -0.230, indicating that both variables had a low correlation and a negative relationship. This means the higher the cortisol level, the lower the baby's birth weight. There is a correlation between cortisol levels and the baby's birth length with a value of p = 0.003 0.05 and r = -0.239, showing that both variables have a low correlation and a negative relationship. The higher the cortisol level, the shorter the baby's birth length. Maintaining the mental health of pregnant women, primarily through family support and health workers, is essential to avoid excessive stress and depression during pregnancy.