bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deciphering metabolomics mechanism explaining the role of secondary metabolites as an aid in improving the agronomic traits and tolerance against several stress
Authors: Shaffique Shifa , Shah Anis Ali , Odongkara Peter , kang Sang-Mo , Lee In-Jung , Elansary Hosam O. , Sridh Shankarappa
Published: May 2024

Bacillus pumilus plays an essential role in agricultural applications as a biological control and for biosafety concerns. However, the underlying mechanisms of B. pumilus strains remain unclear. In our previous study, B. pumilus SH-9 was isolated and shown to be a causal agent of drought stress tolerance and enhanced agronomic traits. Bacillus pumilus SH-9 was isolated from the rhizosphere soil of Artemisia vulgaris. NGS (next generation sequencing) was performed for the strain to gain new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying plant-microbial interactions. NGS revealed 3,910 genes, 3294 genes with protein-coding, and 11 functional genomic regions related to diverse agronomic traits. Several gene clusters related to the biosynthesis of phytohormones, stress tolerance, and agricultural diversification were predicted. The genome provides insights into the possible mechanisms of this bacterium and its future applications. The genomic organization of SH-9 revealed several hallmarks of its plant growth promotion and pathogen suppression activities. Our results provide detailed genomic information for the SH-9 strain and reveal its potential stress tolerance mechanisms, which lays the foundation for the development of effective biocontrol strategies against abiotic stress.
Graphical abstract
Endobronchial valve (EBV) insertion for severe emphysema does not improve skeletal muscle mass or function
Authors: Rubenstein Julia , Benlala Ilyes , Toublanc Anne-Claire , Guecamburu Marina , Maurac Arnaud , Bon Claire , Vergnenegre Charlotte , Grassion Léo , Moucheboeuf Geoffroy , DEHAIL Patrick , Henrot Pauline , zysman maeva
Published: May 2024

Background: Endobronchial valve (EBV) insertion for severe emphysema allows to reduce hyperinflation and alleviates respiratory symptoms in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, few studies investigate their effect on extra-pulmonary manifestations of emphysema. We sought to assess the effect of EBV insertion on skeletal muscle mass and function, as well as determine if skeletal muscle parameters could represent a prognosis factor for response to EBV insertion.
Methods: We conducted a monocentric prospective study including 19 patients. Exhaustive evaluation of lung & skeletal muscle parameters was performed at baseline and 3 and 6 months after EBV insertion. Evaluation included assessment of COPD severity (CAT-score, mMRC, pulmonary function tests, 6-minutes walking test (6MWT)), assessment of body composition with bioimpedance analysis, of thoracic muscles surface and density on CT-scans, and of upper limb force with handgrip test.
Results: EBV insertion led to a significant improvement of lung function after 3 months, that persisted 6 months after the procedure, with a significant decrease in target love volume, residual volume, total lung capacity and a significant increase in forced expiratory volume at 1 second (FEV1). Respiratory symptoms were also alleviated with a significant decrease in mMRC. In contrast, no improvement was observed in skeletal muscle parameters, whether whole-body muscle mass (appendicular skeletal muscle index), thoracic muscles surface or density, or muscle force. Besides, no muscle-related parameter was found to predict response to EBV insertion.
Conclusions: These results strongly advocate for a more thorough referral to pulmonary rehabilitation after the procedure, as well as emphasize the need to find bottom-up drug strategies for COPD-associated sarcopenia.
An Online Rule Set Compaction Strategy for the sUpervised Classifier System UCS
Authors: Ferjani Rahma , Rejeb Lilia , Chetouane Nour
Published: May 2024

Learning Classifier Systems (LCS) are an adaptive rule based class of algorithms driven by evolutionary mechanisms combined with machine learning. The goal of LCS is to create an entire population of rules, affording them the ability to learn iteratively and solve a given problem. The evolved population may contain many redundant or poor rules which can make interpretation and knowledge discovery by experts a considerable challenge. Therefore, it becomes essential to use rule compaction methods to achieve a balance between the maximum accuracy and a reduced population size. In an attempt to deal with the rule set reduction problematic, several rule compaction strategies were proposed as a post processing step to the algorithm. The aim of this work is to propose an Online Rule Compaction strategy for the sUpervised Classifier System (UCS). It is mainly based on clustering through the application of an adaptive version of the k-means algorithm.The proposed solution has showed promising results.
The fifth fibronectin type III domain of Tenascin C (Tn fn 5) is anti-fibrotic in its modulation of corneal wound healing
Authors: Shukla Ashu , Suresh Vyshak , Gupta Parul Chawla , Sharma Maryada , Saikia Uma Nahar , Ram Jagat , Luthra-Guptasarma Manni
Published: May 2024

Corneal transparency is achieved following an injury, through a well-coordinated process of epithelial reorganization and stromal extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling; corneal scars result from unchecked fibrosis during healing. Tenascin-C (TnC) is an important player in inflammation, healing and ECM remodeling. The fibronectin type III repeat region of TnC (Tn fn) interacts with cell surface receptors and growth factors, generating an array of cell signalling events. We aimed to determine the domain-specific role of Tn fn repeats spanning the region 1–5 (Tn fn 1–5) in the context of corneal wound healing, using corneal epithelial cells, corneal fibroblasts, as well as ex vivo alkali-injured goat corneal cultures. We demonstrate that Tn fn 5 can serve as an anti-fibrotic molecule, promoting effective corneal wound healing through increased proliferation of epithelial cells, and downregulation of expression of fibrotic markers and ECM proteins. Tn fn 5 also inhibits corneal fibroblasts from developing contractile ability in the process of fibrosis. In ex vivo alkali-injured corneas, Tn fn 5 promotes corneal wound healing while inhibiting myofibroblast generation, through inhibition of fibronectin polymerization and matrix assembly. The highlight of our study is that Tn fn 5 has an anti-fibrotic effect and can be useful in corneal wound therapy.
Effect of preservative and preservation methods on physical, chemical and microbiological properties of nipa palm (Nypa fructicans) sap
Authors: Athirah Dayang Nur , Asaruddin Mohd Razip , Bhawani Showkat Ahmad , Simbas Aldrin Felix , Kho Swen Jack
Published: May 2024

Objectives
Nipa palm sap that has undergone fermentation is creamy white in colour with an unpleasant aroma and taste, which makes it unacceptable for consumption. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the E’ food grade preservative – potassium sorbate (E202) and sodium metabisulfite (E223) to extend the shelf-life of nipa palm sap, hence determining the effects of different preservation methods on its sucrose content and total bacterial count (TBC).
Results
The result showed that samples during post-sap collection were found more susceptible to microbial growth and contamination than those samples for pre-sap collection. Upon collecting, the initial pH of Sample A was higher (6.33) than Sample B (5.52) and control sample (5.52). Meanwhile, the TBC were the highest in the control sample (2.83 x 105), followed by Sample B (1.14 x 105) and the lowest TBC were in Sample A (1.03 x 105).
Conclusion
Compared to utilizing either potassium sorbate or sodium metabisulfite alone, the combination of the two proved to be far more successful in preserving the palm sap and adding it during pre-sap collection was found more effective to slow down the natural fermentation, rendering longer keeping quality up to 8 hours ensuring colour, flavour and aroma.
Mechanical properties and polishing performance of force rheological polishing slurry under vibration
Authors: Shao Qi , Lyu Binghai , Guo Luguang , Dai Weitao , Wang Jiahuan , Zhao Ping , Yuan Julong
Published: May 2024

To explore the influence of vibration on the rheological properties and polishing effectiveness of slurry in vibration-assisted force rheological polishing process, the changes in forces on the vibrating plate under different vibration parameters are simulated using FLUENT software. The simulation results show a similar trend to the experimental results, indicating that the pressure on the workpiece surface under vibration is positively correlated with the amplitude and frequency. The apparent morphology of the slurry under vibration is observed, the slurry undergoes a transition from liquid-like to solid-like state under vibration. The effect of different amplitudes and frequencies on the polishing of stainless steel sheet is investigated. When the polishing speed of 40 rpm, the amplitude of 0.35 mm, and the frequency of 80 Hz, the surface roughness Sa of the workpiece decreases from (80 ± 10) nm to (7.1 ± 0.9) nm after 30 minutes of processing, with a material removal rate of 68 nm min− 1.
Study on the instability of FC-72 vapor-liquid interface in a rectangular channel under different gravity conditions
Authors: Zhang Leigang , Xu Bo , Chen Zhenqian , Li Guopei , Zhang Yonghai , Wu Xuehong
Published: May 2024

This paper investigates the instability of FC-72 vapor-liquid interface in a rectangular channel under different gravity conditions employing short-term microgravity experimental systems designed based on the drop tower platform. Visual observations and numerical simulations were conducted to monitor the behavior of vapor-liquid interface. The study reveals significant fluctuations, with liquid climbing along both sides of the channel after drop cabin releases. Higher initial liquid levels result in increased maximum liquid phase heights and decreased minimum values, with noticeable fluctuations. In microgravity, the maximum height gradually rises with significant fluctuations, while minimum height remains relatively stable. Increasing contact angle leads to reduced variation in maximum and minimum heights, with a distinctive upward slope of vapor-liquid interface observed at a 90° contact angle. The temporal evolution of the vapor-liquid interface observed in simulations closely aligns with experimental findings. This study highlights the importance of considering various factors in designing experiments involving fluid systems with low surface tension, particularly in aerospace applications, and calls for further research to develop more sophisticated models and techniques for understanding and controlling vapor-liquid interface instability.
P-SIRT1/Nrf2 is linked to oxidative stress in alleviating hidden hearing loss
Authors: Zheng Zeyu , Zhang Peng , Fu Yang , Jiang Yihong , Zhu Jing , Wang Fei , Li Shaoheng , Zhang Zhuoru , Chang Tong , Zhang Min , Ruan Bai , Wang Xiaocheng
Published: May 2024

Hidden hearing loss (HHL) is characterized by normal audiometric thresholds but impaired auditory function, particularly in noisy environments. Unfortunately, the unclear pathogenesis of HHL hinders accurate diagnosis and treatment. According to our research, audiological assessment of HHL mouse model showed a significant increase in the auditory brainstem response threshold, a decrease and delay in the I wave amplitude and latency, respectively, on the first day after noise exposure (NE). Histological observation showed a significant loss of ribbon synapses by immunofluorescence and stereocilia lodging by scanning electron microscopy. Furthermore, mice with HHL showed a significant oxidative stress damage, which was reduced by pretreatment with SRT1720 (SIRT1 specific agonist) through round-window injection. Additionally, cell experiments clarified that SRT1720 could reduce hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress levels in House Ear Institute Organ of Corti cells and may be associated with activating the P-SIRT1/Nrf2 pathway. Subsequent experiments with Nrf2 knockdown confirmed the importance of this pathway. In conclusion, our findings highlight oxidative stress as the primary contributor to HHL, with the P-SIRT1/Nrf2 signaling pathway emerging as a promising therapeutic target for mitigating oxidative stress and alleviating HHL.
WITHDRAWN: Assessment of Professional Behaviour: An Imperative Need in the Medical Curriculum
Authors: Shahid Muhammad Siddique , Mushtaq Mazhar , Usman Muhammad Ahmed , Jihwaprani Muhammad Candragupta , Siddique Rahemeen
Published: May 2024

To assess the implications of teaching professionalism in medical students through an organized, professional behaviour course in a medical curriculum.
It was a retrospective study of an academic cohort of 2018-2020 medical students. In the early stages of university admission, students are introduced to the philosophy concepts of professionalism in health care and are given clear instructions about strict compliance with standards of professional behaviour. This is continued in an organized way throughout the medical program. Pre-designed grading criteria are implemented in all the medical years. Tutors are made aware of this grading and receive training through faculty development sessions. Each tutor grades a group of students who are in direct contact with them during the block/rotation.
We observed that the professional behaviour grades tend to improve with each passing academic year in the medical program. It was seen that male students scored higher grades in professionalism, but also the reporting of critical incidents related to professional behavior is highest amongst the males.
The effectiveness of teaching professional behaviour via an organized course curriculum is observed at ABCD University. We strongly advocate this approach in teaching and achieving high standards of Professionalism in medical graduates.
A Comparative Study on the Compressive Strength of Cement-Based Composites Using Machine Learning Models
Authors: Yang Wenyi , Anwar Aftab , Jiang Yuanjun , Naz Wania , Yanwei Wang , Jing Wang , Li Jing
Published: May 2024

This work aims to compare the compressive strength of CNFs reinforced concrete, cement paste, and cement mortar utilizing machine learning models for prediction before construction. To obtain this goal, the ten supervised regression ML models were executed. The datasets with an experimental foundation consisting of 266, 233, and 196 data points for cement paste, cement mortar, and concrete respectively were set and split into training and testing groups for the model’s execution. There were seven input parameters: cement, water, CNFs, superplasticizer, fine aggregate, coarse aggregate, and age, and one output parameter: compressive strength fc. The results declared that seven models for cement paste, six models for cement mortar, and eight models for concrete had a strong ability to predict compressive strength. According to the sensitivity analysis, water, and cement were the parameters with the largest impacts on predicting the CNFs reinforced cement-based composites, while coarse aggregate was the smallest. It can be concluded that the three XGBR, GBR, and RF models for concrete, three XGBR, DT, and GBR models for cement paste, and three KNN, BR, and RF models for cement mortar were the best prediction models.
Ground improvement with single treatment using Mg 2+ modified all-in-one MICP solution: 1m sand column
Authors: Hosseini Seyed Mohammad Javad , Guan Dawei , Cheng Liang
Published: May 2024

The potential of microbially induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) for soil bio-improvement has been widely studied as an alternative to traditional cementation by Portland cement. While multiple-phase injection techniques are commonly used for MICP treatment, they impose complexities and require a high number of injections. One of the latest developments in the biocementation research area is using the one-phase-low-pH MICP method as a more effective and efficient alternative to the traditional two-phase method. The published studies in one-phase MICP used 1M concentration and injected all-in-one solution several times. So, this study primarily investigated the possibility of soil improvement by a single injection of high-concentration all-in-one solution in 1m columns. This high concentration can impose a toxic effect on bacterial activity and hinder urea conversion. Also, a high concentration of salts such as calcium or magnesium chloride can increase the ionic strength and decrease the uniformity of carbonate precipitation. The effect of 20% magnesium substitution and decreasing the initial temperature of substances were studied. The experiments in aquatic steps demonstrated that these magnesium cations and low temperatures can prolong the lag phase. The collected precipitation from magnesium-included solutions showed an enhancement in the crystal structure of calcium carbonate formations. The transportability of all-in-one solutions was examined by injection of 6 pore volume solution through a 20 cm sand column and comparing the optical density of effluent to the influent. Solutions with magnesium contents and low temperature demonstrated a higher transportability. Eventually, 1 m sand columns were treated with all-in-one solution and the most homogeneous urea conversion and calcium carbonate precipitation were observed in the column injected with a low temperature of magnesium substituted solution.
Inequitable Distribution of Heat Exposure Risks Driven by Trade
Authors: Geng Yong , Li Meng , Meng Bo , Tong Fan , Gao Yuning , Yamano Norihiko , Lim Sunghun , Guilhoto Joaquim , Uno Kimiko
Published: May 2024

The exposure to extreme heat at workplaces may result in great risks to the involved labour. This issue becomes more prominent due to the global dispersion of labour-intensive work via trade. Here we combine a high-resolution climate model with an input–output model to investigate the exposure to extreme heat at work due to global trade. We find an 89% surge in trade-related labour exposure to extreme heat, escalating from 221.5 to 419.0 billion person-hours between 1995 and 2020. The lower-middle-income and low-income economies constituted 53.7% and 18.3% of global exposure, while only 5.7% and 1.0% in global labour compensation. In countries highly susceptible to extreme heat conditions, workers could spend up to about 50% of their working hours in heated conditions. Our findings uncover the disproportionate trade effects in redistributing global benefits and costs, which leads to the inequality in heat exposure between rich and poor economies. In striving for equitable and safe work conditions and social justice, workers vulnerable to heat extremes should be protected through the development of climate adaptation infrastructure in developing economies, especially those engaged in international trade.
Atomic-level direct imaging for Cu(Ⅰ) multiple occupations and migration in 2D ferroelectric CuInP2S6
Authors: Hu Wanbiao , Guo Changjin , Liang Xiali , Xie Jiyang , Wen Caifu , Gu Chengding
Published: May 2024

CuInP2S6 (CIPS) is an emerging 2D ferroelectric material known for disrupting spatial inversion symmetry due to Cu(I) position switching. Its ferroelectricity strongly relies on the Cu(I) atom/ion occupation ordering and dynamics. Nevertheless, the accurate Cu(I) occupations and correlated migration dynamics under the electric field, which are key to unlocking ferroelectric properties, remain controversial and unresolved. Herein, an atomic-level direct imaging through aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy is performed to precisely trace the Cu(I) dynamic behaviours under electron-beam irradiation along (100)-CIPS. It clearly demonstrates that Cu(I) possesses multiple occupations, and Cu(I) could migrate to the lattice, vacancy and interstitial sites between the InS6 octahedral skeletons of CIPS to form local CuxInP2S6 (x = 2–3) structure. Cu(I) multi-occupations induced lattice stress results in a layer sliding along the b-axis direction with generating a sliding size of 1/6 b axis. The CuxInP2S6 (x = 2–3) exists in a type of dynamic structure, only metastable with electron dose over 50 e− Å−2, thus generating a dynamic process of CuxInP2S6 (x=2-3) ⇌ CuInP2S6, a completely new phenomenon. These findings shed light on the novel mechanism underlying the Cu(I) migration in CIPS, providing crucial insights into the fundamental processes governing its ferroelectric properties.
Investigating the Impact of Gamification Components on Online Learners’ Engagement
Authors: Meng Chen , Zhao Mengyuan , Pan Zilong , Pan Qianqian , Bonk Curtis J.
Published: May 2024

As online learning and teaching are becoming an educational trend, online students’ engagement will directly impact the learning and teaching effects and outcomes. A scientific application of gamification in online learning, teaching, and online course design will improve online learners’ learning experience and help build a better virtual learning context for online learners worldwide. This study focuses on how gamification can engage online students from skills, emotional, participation, and performance perspectives. A mixed method has been applied to further explore the relationships between gamification components and online students’ engagement and how online students perceive the impacts of gamification on their online learning experience. This study extended the research about the gamification mechanics that foster online learner engagement and offered guidelines for future online course design and development.
Effusion Cytology of Dysgerminoma: A Case Report with Review of Literature
Authors: Balakrishnan Meera , George Smiley Annie , Mallik Anupama Arora , Mallik Mrinmay Kumar
Published: May 2024

Ovarian dysgerminoma is a rare malignant ovarian germ cell tumor (MOGT) with its peak incidence in women younger than 20 years. Peritoneal and pleural dissemination of ovarian tumors is a major prognostic parameter in ovarian malignancies. Effusion cytology of germ cell tumors are not frequently reported in the literature. We report a case of a MOGT in a 15 year old female who presented with severe painful abdominal distention and respiratory distress. Ascitic and pleural fluid cytology were positive for malignant cells which on immunocytochemistry supported the diagnosis of metastatic dysgerminoma. The histopathology of the ovarian mass was confirmed to be dysgerminoma FIGO stage IVA. This case report highlights the salient cytomorphologic features of metastatic dysgerminoma in ascitic and pleural fluid  discussing the differential diagnoses.
PD-L1 Immunoexpression on Cytology and its Paired Comparison with Histopathology in Lung Carcinoma
Authors: Chandra Smita , Dhawan Vishesh , Kediya Ayushi
Published: May 2024

Background
Cell blocks are being increasingly used as a less invasive diagnostic procedure for various ancillary tests like immunohistochemistry. The assays programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) is one such companion diagnostic test playing a role in progression of lung cancer. The present study was carried out to examine efficacy of cell blocks for PD-L1 expression in lung cancer patients.
Methods
Over the course of a year, our pathology department conducted this prospective study and included newly diagnosed lung carcinoma cases on cytopathological examination. Tumor Proportion Score (TPS) was used for grading cell membrane PD-L1 positivity. Excel sheet was used for compiling and analysing the data using the IBM SPSS software version 28 (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) Chicago, USA.
Result
The study included 36 cases in which cell blocks and paired histopathological sections were studied, of which 1 cell block was inadequate for reporting. PD-L1 expression was negative in 57%, low grade in 40% and high grade in 3% cases. It was seen in 40% squamous cell carcinoma, 40% adenocarcinoma and 20% small cell carcinoma. Among them, 11 were true positive, 5 were false positive, 3 were false negative and 16 were true negative. With a 78.5% sensitivity, 76% specificity, 68.7% positive predictive value and 84.2% negative predictive value, PD-L1 on cell blocks correlated with paired histopathological sections in 77% of cases in our study.
Conclusion: Cell blocks can be utilized for evaluating PD-L1 expression in lung carcinoma and act as an efficient and trustworthy substitute to routine histopathological techniques.
Aspergillus Thyroiditis: An Incidental Diagnosis in a Patient of Tubercular Meningitis, A Case Report
Authors: Sinha Bipasha , Sutradhar Arpita , Bhaumik Sanjay
Published: May 2024

Fungal thyroiditis is a rare disorder of the thyroid gland and affects immunocompromised patients in a setting of disseminated disease and contributes to high mortality rates. The commonest fungus implicated is Aspergillus. Here, we present a case of Aspergillus Thyroiditis in a patient undergoing treatment for Chronic meningitis (? Tubercular) who was incidentally detected with the thyroid lesion on follow-up evaluation by 18 Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography (FDG PET). A Fine Needle Aspiration cytology revealed Fungal hyphae and she was diagnosed with Aspergillus thyroiditis. She also had concurrent aspergillosis of the lung. She was treated with antifungals and is doing well at present.
THE EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF ORAL IMMUNOTHERAPY FOR FOOD ALLERGIES IN PRESCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN
Authors:   Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, Taif University P.O.BOX 11099 Taif 21944 Saudi Arabia., Alzahrani Ahmad
Published: May 2024

In the last two decades, food allergy (FA) has emerged as a significant concern, with a continuous rise in prevalence worldwide. Furthermore, increasing awareness about this issue in the general public has prompted rigorous efforts to find long-term solutions to FA. In the pediatric group, most cases of FA are reported during the initial 3 to 5 years. The most common FA in preschoolers include eggs, cows milk, tree nuts, and peanuts. Conventional approaches for the management of FA include mitigating adverse reactions associated with the consumption of food allergens and avoidance of that particular food allergen. However, constant avoidance remains a challenge, requiring constant due diligence. Therefore, Oral immunotherapy (OIT), an allergen-specific method for managing FA has been introduced. The present review provides an overview of the mechanisms and processes of OIT. The most common OITs studied include peanut, tree nuts, egg, and milk OITs. Furthermore, the literature search yielded significant evidence that showed the safety and efficacy of these OITs. The review also identified the gaps in the literature, which highlight the need for future investigations. Future studies should focus on conducting well-designed clinical trials with larger sample sizes, establishing standardized treatment protocols, investigating immunological mechanisms, and assessing the broader impact of OIT.
Drug-Drug Interaction Potential of Remimazolam: CYP 450, Transporters, and Protein Binding
Authors: Petersen Karl-Uwe , Schmalix Wolfgang , Pesic Marija , Stöhr Thomas
Published: May 2024

Background:

The ultra-short-acting benzodiazepine, remimazolam, is a new treatment modality for procedural sedation and general anesthesia. Its activity is terminated by carboxylesterase 1 (CES1).

Objective:

The objective of this study was to determine the drug-drug interaction (DDI) potential of remi-mazolam through mechanisms unrelated to its metabolizing enzyme, CES1.

Methods:

Conventional in vitro co-exposure experiments were conducted to study possible interactions of remimazolam and its primary metabolite, CNS7054, mediated by competitive binding to plasma protein or reactions with cytochrome P450 isoforms or drug transporters.

Results:

No relevant interactions of remimazolam or its metabolite with cytochrome P450 (CYP) isoforms at clinically relevant concentrations were identified. Likewise, standard experiments revealed no clinically relevant interactions with drug transporters and plasma proteins.

Conclusion:

The present data and analyses suggest a very low potential of remimazolam for pharmacokinetic DDIs mediated by CYP isoforms, drug transporters, and protein binding.
Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) Based Nanomaterials for Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Jha Pardeep K. , Jha Priyanka A. , Singh Prabhakar
Published: May 2024

In the last two decades, nanomaterials with enhanced active sites and better
surface kinetics as compared to their bulk counterpart, have been significantly studied
for supercapacitor electrode materials. Contemporarily, Metal-organic frameworks
(MOFs) by virtue of versatile structure, charge conduction, high porosity, and redoxactive functionality have also emerged as the most potential materials for nextgeneration energy storage technologies. Despite these excellent features, the bulk phase
inorganic-MOFs have some chemical and physical limitations that hinder cell
performance and thus novel materials are required. Recently, MOFs-based
nanomaterials(nMOF) got due attention leading to the discovery of a variety of
properties not observed or relevant in bulk systems, such as well-defined 3D structures,
permanent porosity, and accelerated adsorption/desorption kinetics. That's why nMOFs
are considered an emerging class of modular nanomaterials. However, understanding
of nMOFs is still in its infancy, film uniformity along with the unstable structure in a
highly corrosive electrolyte is still a bottleneck problem. In this chapter, the recent
developments of pristine MOF and MOF-derived porous nanocomposites for the nextgeneration supercapacitor applications will be discussed.
Supercapacitor Materials: From Research to the Real World
Authors: Nawaz Ahmad , Pandey Vikas Kumar , Kumar Pradeep
Published: May 2024

Supercapacitors are gaining prominence in the realm of energy storage
devices due to their high power density, extended cycle stability, and fast
charge/discharge rates. Supercapacitors are widely used in industries such as service
grids, transportation, consumer electronics, wearable and flexible systems, energy
harvesting, etc. Due to their remarkable high-power performance, high reliability, and
extended lifetime, they are a key electrochemical device for energy storage; as a result,
the worldwide supercapacitor market is rapidly developing. Supercapacitors have a
straightforward basic construction, but different products for various applications
require cells in various configurations. The application of supercapacitors from the
perspective of the industry is the subject of this chapter.
ASSESSMENT ON THE FACTORS INFLUENCING INEFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION AMONG STAKEHOLDERS IN INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Wan Ismail Wan Norizan , Adnan Hamimah , Mat Isa Siti Sarah , Jenuwa Norsyazwana , Yusop Norhafizah
Published: May 2024

Communication serves as a foundation for the planning and development of infrastructure projects. Because the infrastructure projects are complex and involve multiple stakeholders, ineffective communication could significantly negatively impact the whole development process. Hence, this paper aims to determine the significant factors that lead to ineffective communication among project participants in infrastructure development in Malaysia and explore initiatives to address the problems. The research data were gathered via responses from a questionnaire survey and semi-structured interviews with Grade G7 contractors and consultant engineers who were involved in infrastructure development. The study starts by distributing questionnaires to the target population to determine the significant factors influencing the ineffectiveness of communication among the project participants. At the second stage, 28 industry practitioners were interviewed to gain their deeper insight on the initiatives to address the problems. The result revealed seven significant factors contributing to the communication ineffectiveness in infrastructure development in Malaysia. There were eight initiatives recommended to be taken by project participants to address the problems, namely, to channel the site problems to the right and authorized person/party, encourage a cooperative attitude towards achieving the project goal, avoid confrontational attitudes, provide timely feedback, create a harmonious and effective working environment, promote a no-blame culture, encourage respect for others, and keep written communication at all times. The outcome of the study could mitigate the impacts of ineffective communication in infrastructure planning and development by helping to ensure that all the participants involved are on the same page and aligned with project goals.
URBAN AGRICULTURE ACTIVITIES SCENARIO IN RELATION TO FOOD SECURITY: DELVE INTO URBAN FARMING PRACTICE
Authors: Omar Chong Noraini , Nawawi Fatin Nabilah , Md Ali Majidah , Ahmad Mohamad Sabri
Published: May 2024

Urban agriculture is an alternative source of food for the urban population to achieve food security. The Department of Agriculture (DOA) Malaysia under the Community Agricultural Development Program targeted 8,800 metric tonnes of urban agriculture products by the year 2025. To understand the current state, this research aims to investigate the urban agricultural activities scenario in Malaysia through the role and responsibilities carried out by the government agencies to facilitate urban farmers and increase agricultural productivity. A qualitative approach was adopted by means of a desktop study to review journals and reports, as well as content analysis on multilevel government policies, and acts related to urban agriculture. Also conducted were in-depth interviews with government agencies officials and farmers, and a fieldwork. The findings indicate that (1) all three-tier governments have specific roles and responsibilities in facilitating urban agriculture through policies, instruments, incentives, and monitoring that cascade down from the federal to the local level; and (2) the need to improve coordination between agencies to optimise resources and monitoring. In conclusion, coordination between related government agencies and farmers is the key enabler to ensure food security for the urban population.
THE EFFECT OF SECURITY IN THE GREEN BUILDING PRICE PREDICTION MODEL: A COMPARISON BETWEEN MULTIPLE LINEAR REGRESSION AND MACHINE LEARNING APPROACHES
Authors: Mohd Thuraiya , Masrom Suraya , Jamil Nur Syafiqah , Harussani Mohamad
Published: May 2024

Green building (GB) and building security are two pivotal factors that significantly influence the valuation of property prices. Nevertheless, the research on these determinants was very limited and no empirical study was done to prove the reliability of the factors as price determinants for green building. Hence, this study examines the factors by using two distinct approaches, namely the Multiple Regression Model (MRL) and Machine Learning (ML) to fill the existing empirical gap. With MRL as the conventional approach and ML as an advanced technique, the results were compared to provide maximum effectiveness in analysing the factors included. The data analysis was conducted based on a real GB dataset collected, which comprises 240 green building transactions in the city area of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Prior to MLR modelling, an ANOVA test was conducted to test the statistical significance of all the independent variables (IVs) used in this study, while ML used the algorithm consisting of random forest, decision tree, linear regressor, ridge and lasso. The results indicate that building security has a strong and statistically significant impact on the price of green buildings in the MLR model. However, when it comes to enhancing prediction accuracy using the Random Forest and Decision Tree algorithms in ML models, building security has a relatively minimal influence. These results highlight a substantial difference between the outcomes of the two approaches. Specifically, the machine learning model did not demonstrate a significant relationship between green building attributes and price prediction, whereas the multiple regression model suggests otherwise.
Analisis Penggunaan Tertinggi dan Terbaik pada Tanah Kosong di Pantai Manggar Segara Sari Kecamatan Balikpapan Timur
Authors: Maulana Indra , Zulfikar Akbar Lufi , Mahardika Swadia Gandhi
Published: May 2024

Analysis of the highest and best use to government-owned vacant land located in Manggar Segara Sari Beach, East Balikpapan, done by the analysis of productivity and the physical aspects of the property include the location as well as the legal and regulatory aspects in order to obtain alternative uses which allows. Next step is about market analysis which is analyze market demand and supply, also financial feasibility study for every alternative.

In this study, the data were analyzed consist of primary data and secondary data. Primary data includes data revenues, rents and expenditure proposed as an alternative to the use, obtained by structured interview form, while the physical data which includes the size, shape of the tread, topography, utilities and others obtained through direct observation. Secondary data available at government office such as BPKAD (Badan Pengelolaan Keuangan dan Aset Daerah), Badan Pusat Statistik, and many others.

Based on the results of the market analysis, the proposed use of the third consists of cottages, restaurants, and mixed use eligible to proceed to the stage of financial analysis. Based on the financial feasibility indicators Net Present Value (NPV), Internal Rate of Return (IRR), Payback Period (PP), Rate Return on Investment (ROI), dan Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR), Mixed use is better than cottage and restaurant that can be conclude mixed use is the highest and best use.
Roles and Responsibilities of the Global Specialist Digital Health Workforce: Analysis of Global Census Data
Authors: Butler-Henderson Kerryn , Gray Kathleen , Arabi Salma
Published: May 2024

Background

The Global Specialist Digital Health Workforce Census is the largest workforce survey of the specialist roles that support the development, use, management, and governance of health data, health information, health knowledge, and health technology.

Objective

This paper aims to present an analysis of the roles and functions reported by respondents in the 2023 census.

Methods

The 2023 census was deployed using Qualtrics and was open from July 1 to August 13, 2023. A broad definition was provided to guide respondents about who is in the specialist digital health workforce. Anyone who self-identifies as being part of this workforce could undertake the survey. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistical analysis and thematic analysis of the functions respondents reported in their roles.

Results

A total of 1103 respondents completed the census, with data reported about their demographic information and their roles. The majority of respondents lived in Australia (n=870, 78.9%) or New Zealand (n=130, 11.8%), with most (n=620, 56.3%) aged 35‐54 years and identifying as female (n=720, 65.3%). The top four occupational specialties were health informatics (n=179, 20.2%), health information management (n=175, 19.8%), health information technology (n=128, 14.4%), and health librarianship (n=104, 11.7%). Nearly all (n=797, 90%) participants identified as a manager or professional. Less than half (430/1019, 42.2%) had a formal qualification in a specialist digital health area, and only one-quarter (244/938, 26%) held a credential in a digital health area. While two-thirds (502/763, 65.7%) reported undertaking professional development in the last year, most were self-directed activities, such as seeking information or consuming online content. Work undertaken by specialist digital health workers could be classified as either leadership, functional, occupational, or technological.

Conclusions

Future specialist digital health workforce capability frameworks should include the aspects of leadership, function, occupation, and technology. This largely unqualified workforce is undertaking little formal professional development to upskill them to continue to support the safe delivery and management of health and care through the use of digital data and technology.
Predicting Lung Cancer Survival to the Future: Population-Based Cancer Survival Modeling Study (Preprint)
Authors: Meng Fan-Tsui , Jhuang Jing-Rong , Peng Yan-Teng , Chiang Chun-Ju , Yang Ya-Wen , Huang Chi-Yen , Huang Kuo-Ping , Lee Wen-Chung
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related mortality globally, with late diagnoses often resulting in poor prognosis. In response, the Lung Ambition Alliance aims to double the 5-year survival rate by 2025.

OBJECTIVE

Using the Taiwan Cancer Registry, this study uses the survivorship-period-cohort model to assess the feasibility of achieving this goal by predicting future survival rates of patients with lung cancer in Taiwan.

METHODS

This retrospective study analyzed data from 205,104 patients with lung cancer registered between 1997 and 2018. Survival rates were calculated using the survivorship-period-cohort model, focusing on 1-year interval survival rates and extrapolating to predict 5-year outcomes for diagnoses up to 2020, as viewed from 2025. Model validation involved comparing predicted rates with actual data using symmetric mean absolute percentage error.

RESULTS

The study identified notable improvements in survival rates beginning in 2004, with the predicted 5-year survival rate for 2020 reaching 38.7%, marking a considerable increase from the most recent available data of 23.8% for patients diagnosed in 2013. Subgroup analysis revealed varied survival improvements across different demographics and histological types. Predictions based on current trends indicate that achieving the Lung Ambition Alliance’s goal could be within reach.

CONCLUSIONS

The analysis demonstrates notable improvements in lung cancer survival rates in Taiwan, driven by the adoption of low-dose computed tomography screening, alongside advances in diagnostic technologies and treatment strategies. While the ambitious target set by the Lung Ambition Alliance appears achievable, ongoing advancements in medical technology and health policies will be crucial. The study underscores the potential impact of continued enhancements in lung cancer management and the importance of strategic health interventions to further improve survival outcomes.
Harnessing ChatGPT for Thematic Analysis: Are We Ready? (Preprint)
Authors: Lee V Vien , van der Lubbe Stephanie C C , Goh Lay Hoon , Valderas Jose Maria
Published: May 2024

UNSTRUCTURED

ChatGPT (OpenAI) is an advanced natural language processing tool with growing applications across various disciplines in medical research. Thematic analysis, a qualitative research method to identify and interpret patterns in data, is one application that stands to benefit from this technology. This viewpoint explores the use of ChatGPT in three core phases of thematic analysis within a medical context: (1) direct coding of transcripts, (2) generating themes from a predefined list of codes, and (3) preprocessing quotes for manuscript inclusion. Additionally, we explore the potential of ChatGPT to generate interview transcripts, which may be used for training purposes. We assess the strengths and limitations of using ChatGPT in these roles, highlighting areas where human intervention remains necessary. Overall, we argue that ChatGPT can function as a valuable tool during analysis, enhancing the efficiency of the thematic analysis and offering additional insights into the qualitative data. While ChatGPT may not adequately capture the full context of each participant, it can serve as an additional member of the analysis team, contributing to researcher triangulation through knowledge building and sensemaking.
The effect of aerobic virtual‐reality‐based exercise on restless legs syndrome, sleep quality, and quality of life among patients undergoing hemodialysis (Preprint)
Authors: Fauzi Achmad , Ahmedy Fatimah , Irawati Diana
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Background: Virtual reality (VR) therapy for hemodialysis (HD) patients can improve physical function, maintain patient compliance, and have a positive effect on functional capacity, strength, and health-related quality of life. Nevertheless, the utilization of this treatment for HD patients remains restricted, particularly in the context of Indonesia where its development has yet to be established.

OBJECTIVE

Objectives: the primary objective of this research attempt was to determine the effect of aerobic exercise using virtual reality technology on restless legs syndrome, sleep quality, and quality of life in patients undergoing hemodialysis therapy.

METHODS

Methods: The present study employs a quasi-experimental design with a two-group pretest-posttest design. The inclusion criteria for this study include of patients with HD who are over the age of 20, have been undergoing hemodialysis for a minimum of 6 months, exhibit cooperative behavior and compositional awareness, and express a willingness to participate as respondents. The KDQOL-SF, IRLSG Scale, and PSQI were used to measure study outcome.

RESULTS

Results: There were 95 people that could have participated, but only 75 ended up doing so due to exclusions and dropouts. The intervention significantly decreased RLS score and improved sleep quality, but quality of life did not increase significantly. In the control group, RLS score did not decrease significantly, sleep quality did not improve, and quality of life did not increase significantly.

CONCLUSIONS

Conclusion: Intradialytic aerobic exercise supported with virtual reality may have additional effects in RLS, sleep quality, and quality of life. Further research is needed to assess the effect of VR-based intervention, both alone and when combined with other therapies.
Peran Persepsi Keterlibatan Ayah Dan Keterlibatan Ibu Serta Konsep Diri Membaca Terhadap Minat Baca
Authors: Fakhriya Siti Dini , Purnamaningsih Esti Hayu
Published: May 2024

Salah satu kunci untuk mencapai kesuksesan akademik adalah membaca, namun minat membaca masyarakat di Indonesia masih rendah. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui bagaimana persepsi keterlibatan orang tua yang terdiri dari ayah dan ibu, dan konsep diri membaca terhadap minat baca siswa sekolah dasar. Selain itu ada perbedaan dalam persepsi siswa tentang keterlibatan ayah dan keterlibatan ibu. Partisipan penelitian melibatkan 169 siswa kelas tiga dan empat sSekolah Dasar dengan usia 8-11 tahun dan tinggal bersama orang tua. Penelitian ini menggunakan tiga alat ukur yaitu yang skala persepsi keterlibatan ayah dan ibu berdasarkan teori Hoover-Dempsey (2005), skala konsep diri membaca dari the self-concept as reader scale from Motivation to Read Profile (Malloy, et al., 2013) serta skala minat baca berdasarkan teori Schiefele (2009). Analisis data pada penelitian ini menggunakan IBM SPSS 2.0 software. Menurut analisis regresi ganda, persepsi keterlibatan ayah dan ibu serta konsep diri membaca memiliki pengaruh sebesar 50,1% terhadap minat baca (r = ,501). Selain itu, ada perbedaan dalam persepsi keterlibatan ayah dan ibu serta minat baca antara siswa laki-laki dan perempuan. Implikasi dalam penelitian untuk menumbuhkan minat diperlukan keterlibatan orang tua sejak dini sehingga dapat terbentuk kebiasaan membaca pada anak. Adapun konsep diri membaca akan mendorong siswa untuk membaca sehingga konsep diri membaca yang perlu dibentuk pada siswa.