bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sociological and Ecological Vulnerabilities from Nuclear Waste Discharge: A Case Study of Fukushima's Marine Ecosystem
Authors: Khoso Abdul Rasool , Jintu Gu , China Nanjing Jiangsu
Published: May 2024

The dissemination of treated nuclear wastewater from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean has raised profound ecological and public health concerns. This study examines the sociological effects of nuclear waste discharges on marine ecosystems and human communities, with a particular emphasis on the Fukushima event. Utilizing a combination of existing literature review and secondary data analysis, this study explores the distribution of radionuclides in marine settings, their accumulation in the marine food chain, societal hurdles and the associated health risks for humans. Besides that, the positive nature of coefficients demonstrates that each area measured—health, environment, social, and marine life—worsens with higher volumes of discharged water, highlighting the importance of international standards and effective environmental governance in controlling and reducing the effects of nuclear pollutants. The findings also indicate that the spread of radionuclides, notably tritium and carbon-14, presents sustained ecological and health risks, exacerbated by their long-term presence in the environment and propensity to bioaccumulation. In conclude, Fukushima incident starkly demonstrates the prolonged and intricate effects of nuclear waste discharges on marine ecosystems and human health. Therefore, regulatory enhancements are necessary to uphold strict safety standards and ensure international accountability, thereby boosting public confidence and conforming to global best practices in nuclear safety and environmental protection.
Numerical Simulations of a Curve Flow Related to Centro-affine Invariants
Authors: Xia Fan , Yu Yanhua
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we propose a novel numerical implementation for visualizing the evolutionary process of a curve flow. This flow is an invariant second-order flow in centro-affine geometry. The key of the scheme proposed in this essay is to indirectly obtain the position vector by solving the evolution equation of the support function. Additionally, to improve efficiency, we choose a specific tangential velocity which can eliminate the necessity to update normal angles at each iteration. The reason is that the normal angles do not change over time under this tangential velocity. Finally, we conduct multiple experiments to demonstrate the feasibility and efficiency of our proposed method.
Is patient-reported outcome after treatment of pelvic ring injuries related to pelvic symmetry? A prospective study
Authors: Therrien Camryn C. , Duis Kaj ten , Banierink Hester , de Vries Jean-Paul P.M. , Reininga Inge H.F. , IJpma Frank F.A.
Published: May 2024

Purpose. To analyze the relation between pelvic symmetry, as measured by the cross-measurement technique, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in terms of functional status and health-related quality of life.
Methods. In this prospective cohort study, X and Y measurements were taken according to the cross- measurement technique on AP radiographs of patients who were treated for a pelvic ring injury in a level 1 trauma center. Patients completed PROMs one year following their injury, reporting their functional status with the Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment (SMFA-NL), specifically lower extremity dysfunction (LED), problems with daily activities (PDA) and mental and emotional problems (MEP) subscales, and quality of life with EuroQol-5D (EQ-5D). Subgroup analyses were also performed. PROMs were used to analyze the relation between pelvic symmetry and patient-reported outcome, using Spearman’s Rank correlation coefficients.
Results. A total of 113 patients (mean age 57 (SD 17.7) years) with pelvic ring injury were included, of which 27 (24%) sustained type A injuries, 64 (57%) type B and 22 (20%) type C injuries. Forty-four (39%) patients were treated operatively. The median pelvic symmetry ratio was 1.01 (IQR 0.07). Weak or no correlations were found between the pelvic symmetry scores and the outcome measurements (Spearman’s correlation coefficients: LED r=0.06; PDA r=0.11; MEP r=-0.02; and EQ-5D r=-0.09). Subgroup analyses revealed no correlations.
Conclusions. Pelvic symmetry is not related to functional status and health-related quality of life, one year after pelvic ring injury. This indicates that some degree of pelvic asymmetry may be well tolerated by patients.
Tailoring sub-nanochannels of palygorskite-derived membranes for desalination and selective lithium-ion transport
Authors: Wang Baodui , Zhen Liping , Meng Genping , Zhao Xisheng , Sun Dina , Chen Yonghui , Wei Shuai , Yin Yuhui , Li Xinyue , Li Hua , Hu Guowen , Wang Aiqin
Published: May 2024

Nanofiltration membranes featuring sub-1 nm channels have shown significant potential for desalination and ion separation. However, the construction of scalable membranes with tailorable one-dimensional (1D) sub-1 nm channels using a versatile and eco-friendly protocol remains a formidable challenge. In this study, we present an approach to tuning sub-1 nm channels using natural palygorskite (PAL) nanorods with carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) cross-linkers to control density and enhance stability of membrane. The sub-1 nm channels of the membrane were further regulated by an ion-imprinting technique to enable fast and selective transport of Li+. The resulting PAL-CMC hybrid (PCH) membranes only retained the natural 1D straight sub-1 nm channels of PAL nanorods by adjusting the CMC content, making them among the few membranes capable of ultra-fast water transport (> 25 L m− 2 h− 1 bar − 1) and exceptional salt retention (97.4% for Na2SO4 and 86.2% for NaCl). Notably, PCH membranes regulated by ion-imprinting technique exhibit unprecedented Li+ selectivity from ionic mixture solutions containing Mg2+, achieving a separation factor (SMg2+/ Li+) up to 32.5. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed rapid Li+ transport through the sub-1 nm channel of PAL. These findings position PCH membranes as next-generation candidates for desalination and Li+ extraction from lagoons.
Improving the organic chemical and physical rheological specification of natural asphalt using wastes of poly vinyl chloride, glass and tires
Authors: Muslim Rasim Farraj , Rashid Kaiwan Omer , Ahmed Thamer Yousif , Ahmed Ayham Hammad
Published: May 2024

In view of the applied industrial importance of asphalt in many fields {paving roads, surfacing (surface coatings)} and due to the high summer temperatures and their decrease in winter and the increased load led to cracks in the industrial asphalt used in paving and surfacing operations, and economic growth and population increase leads to consumption and an increase in the amount of waste produced. In order to preserve natural resources and a pollution-free environment, waste (glass, tires, plastic) was used in this research to improve and develop the natural asphalt of the Hit - Anbar region, as it cannot be used in its natural form for tiling and flattening operations. The study included improvements in the natural heat asphalt using waste materials. They are mentioned above in the following percentages: (5%-10%-15%-20%-25%-30%). For the purpose of achieving the following objectives:Natural Heat asphalt improvement, sanitary disposal of contaminated waste, sustainable development and achieving economic value for waste.
Assessing Global Pandemic Risks from Emerging Infectious Diseases and High Containment Laboratory Leaks: A Country Level Spatial Network SIR Model Analysis
Authors: Tieman Ross J. , Oliboni Pedro A. , Campos Simeon
Published: May 2024

Future pandemics could arise from several sources, notably, Emerging Infectious Diseases (EID); and lab leaks from High Containment Biological Laboratories (HCBL). Recent advances in infectious disease, information technology and biotechnology provide building blocks to reduce pandemic risk if deployed intelligently. However, the global nature of infectious diseases, distribution of HCBLs, and increasing complexity of transmission dynamics due to travel networks, make it difficult to determine how to best deploy mitigation efforts. Increasing understanding of the risk landscape posed by EID and HCBL lab leaks could improve risk reduction efforts.
The presented paper develops a country level spatial network Susceptible Infected Removed (SIR) model based on global travel network data and relative risk measures of potential origin sources, EID and lab leaks from Biological Safety Level 3+ and 4 labs, to explore expected infections over the first 30 days of a pandemic. Model outputs indicate that for EID and lab leaks India, the US and China are most impacted at day 30. For EID, expected infections shift from high EID origin potential countries at day 10 to the US, India and China, while for lab leaks the US and India start with high lab leak potential. With respect to model uncertainties and limitations, results indicate several large wealthy countries are influential to pandemic risk from both EID and lab leaks indicating high leverage points for mitigation efforts.
Investigation of the buckling behavior of square hollow columns fabricated from 7A04-T6 aluminum alloy through numerical analysis.
Authors: Bashir Abba , Rong Bin
Published: May 2024

This research employed ANSYS 17 finite element analysis software to numerically consider the investigation of the buckling behavior of columns made from square hollow sections (SHS) composed of aluminum alloy. A validated modeling with nonlinear finite elements was created through column pin-ended tests. The column samples were manufactured using heat-treated aluminum alloys of 7A04-T6. In the finite element model, geometric and material non-linearities were accounted for. Its accuracy was validated through a comparison of the model's results with experimental conditions. A thorough parametric analysis was carried out to explore the impact of fillet radii, cross-sectional slenderness, meshing size, and member slenderness on the stability of columns. The research juxtaposed experimental and numerical results with design strength parameters from various codes, including Chinese, European, American, and Australian/New Zealand standards. Additionally, alternative design approaches such as the direct strength technique and continuous strength method were considered for comparison. The test results indicated that the Direct Strength Method (DSM), Australian/New Zealand Standard (AUS/NZS), and Continuous Strength Method (CSM) overestimated the actual strength of the columns by 57.73%, 18.34%, and 15.21%, respectively. Conversely, the European, Chinese, and American codes underestimated the strength by 23.60%, 17.40%, and 9%, respectively. Upon examining the numerical data, it was evident that the actual strength of the columns was underestimated by 47.48%, 10.99%, and 7.99% when employing the Direct Strength Method (DSM), Australian/New Zealand Standard (AUS/NZS), and Continuous Strength Method (CSM), respectively. Similarly, the European (EN), Chinese (GB), and American (AA) methods underestimated the strength by 32.80%, 24.30%, and 15.70%, respectively. The majority of existing design guidelines and approaches tend to be conservative in forecasting the ultimate strength of columns made of 7A04-T6 aluminum alloy under eccentric stress. To improve accuracy, a modified formula predicated on the Eurocode was suggested, adjusting various factors for more precise predictions of the ultimate strength of columns made of 7A04-T6 aluminum alloy.
Association Between Climate Change and Patient Health Outcomes: a Mixed-methods Systematic Review
Authors: Turzáková Jana , Kohanová Dominika , Solgajová Andrea , Sollár Tomáš
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Climate change poses significant threats to the environment, biodiversity, and socioeconomic stability worldwide. Its impact on human health, particularly within healthcare systems, is growing in concern. Nurses, as front-line healthcare workers, play a crucial role in addressing climate-related health risks. However, there is a gap in understanding nursing perspectives on climate change and its implications for patient health outcomes.
Aim: To synthesize empirical evidence on the association between climate change and patient health outcomes from a nursing perspective.
Methods: A mixed-methods systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). The search was carried out in January 2023 in six scientific databases including CINAHL, PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, Web of Science, and OVID Nursing. Studies focusing on climate change and patient health outcomes from a nursing perspective were included. Data extraction, quality appraisal, and synthesis were performed systematically.
Results: The systematic review included 18 studies of a mainly quantitative nature. Three main themes emerged as follows: Climate Healthcare Interplay; Future Nurses as Agents of Change; and Navigating Sustainability Challenges in Nursing. These themes highlighted nurses' awareness of the interrelation between climate and health, the need for environmental education in nursing, and the challenges that hinder sustainable nursing practices.
Conclusion: This review underscores the importance of integrating climate change topics into nursing education and fostering organizational support for sustainable nursing practices. Addressing these challenges is essential for nurses to mitigate the health risks posed by climate change effectively.
Integration of Thermoelectric Generators with Concentrated Solar Thermal Power Plants: An Investigation
Authors: Singh Shresth
Published: May 2024

Over the years Concentrated Solar Thermal Power Plants have proved themselves to be one of the most efficient ways of Solar Power generation as they do not need energy storage systems and can be used to produce power even when sunlight is not available. But, they come with their own set of challenges which can arise anywhere from the receiver setup to the thermal energy storage system. Though various methods have been proposed to overcome all the shortcomings that can possibly be present in such a system, a phenomenon known as the Seebeck effect which is the working principle behind Thermoelectric Generators can be used to generate electricity due to the virtue of the considerable temperature difference that we can obtain on a Concentrated Solar Thermal System. The Seebeck Effect essentially refers to the production of a voltage difference between two dissimilar electrical conductors or semiconductors due to the temperature difference between the two. Scaling this method to the size of the Power Plant Systems can give us fruitful results and this project tries to gauge this very potential and pave the way for a novel method of power generation. Further, simulation results have been used to determine the power generated by Thermoelectric Generator Units and these results can be extrapolated to determine actual power generation post integration of the aforementioned technologies.
Protocol for a mixed-methods study to develop a Core Outcome Set for assessing interventions and care for parents after neonatal death (iCHOOSE Neonatal study)
Authors: Davies Anna , Williams Charlotte , Burden Christy , Mullin Sadie , Moy Lucy , Redshaw Maggie , Patel Mehali , Fraser Abigail , Hinton Lisa , Lynch Mary , Merriel Abi , Siasakos Dimitris , Webbe James , Odd David , Timlin Laura , Watts Leanne , Bakhbakhi Danya
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Neonatal death exerts long lasting impact on parents’ mental health, finances and relationships, and the wider family. There is national and international momentum to evaluate interventions to support parents after the death of a baby. Core Outcome Sets provide a minimum set of outcomes, agreed by stakeholders to be important, that should be evaluated in all studies to support evidence syntheses and identification of the most effective interventions.
Aim: We aim to develop a Core Outcome Set (COS) for assessing interventions and care after neonatal death, to support future evidence syntheses and enable identification of effective interventions and care for parents.
Methods and analysis: We will develop the COS in 6 phases. A parent involvement group and stakeholder steering committee have been established and have informed each planned phase: 1) Systematic review of quantitative studies evaluating care and interventions provided after neonatal death, to describe interventions, outcomes, and outcome measurement tools used to assess intervention effectiveness; 2) Qualitative interviews with parents who have experienced neonatal death to identify outcomes important and relevant to them; 3) Think-Aloud interviews with stakeholders (bereaved parents and professionals) to develop and refine an online survey; 4) Real-Time online international Delphi survey with bereaved parents and professionals to shortlist outcomes for consideration in the COS; 5) Adapted nominal group online consensus meetings with parents and professionals to agree final COS; 6) Identification of a preliminary set of measurement tools.
Ethics and dissemination: Ethical approval has been granted for all activities to be undertaken by the University of Bristol Health Sciences Faculty Research Ethics Committee (reference: 15121). We will disseminate the findings via peer-reviewed publications and relevant academic and professional conferences.
Registration: This COS has been registered on the COMET database.(1) The systematic review has been registered on the PROSPERO database (CRD42020151365)
Highly Sensitive Molecular Assay for the Detection of Treponema pallidum infection
Authors: Shiluli Clement , Kamath Shwetha , Kanoi Bernard N. , Kimani Racheal , Maina Michael , Waweru Harrison , Kamita Moses , Ndirangu Ibrahim , Abkallo Hussein M. , Oduor Bernard , Pamme Nicole , Dupaty Joshua , Klapperich Catherine M. , Lolabattu Srinivasa Raju , Gitaka Jesse
Published: May 2024

Introduction: According to the World Health Organization (WHO) more than 7 million new Treponema pallidum (T. pallidum) infections were reported among people aged 15–49 years in 2020 globally, the majority of them in developing countries. Syphilis, which is caused by T. pallidum is transmitted through contact with active lesions of a sexual partner or from an infected pregnant woman to her foetus. Gold standard T. pallidum laboratory diagnosis methods include dark-field microscopy, silver staining, direct fluorescence immunoassays and the rabbit infectivity test. However, these tests are associated with false positive or negative results. The gold standard 16S ribosomal (rRNA) gene polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is used for routine amplification of T. pallidum conserved genes. Here we report on an ultrasensitive syphilis diagnostic method, based on de novo genome mining of the T. pallidum DNA to identify identical multi repeat sequences (IMRS) as amplification primers.
Methods: We used genome-mining approaches to find IMRS distributed throughout the T. pallidum genome to design a primer pair that target four repeat sequences. Genomic T. pallidum DNA was diluted from 8.14×104 to 8.14×10− 2 genome copies/𝜇l and used as template in the IMRS-based amplification assay. For performance comparison, 16S rRNA PCR assay was employed. Probit analysis was used to calculate the lower limit of detection of the T. pallidum-IMRS PCR and the conventional 16S rRNA PCR assays.
Results: Probit analysis confirmed that the T. pallidum-IMRS primers offered higher test sensitivity of 0.03 fg/𝜇L compared to the 16S rRNA PCR (0.714 pg/𝜇L). Using the T. pallidum-IMRS primers, we were able to observe considerable isothermal amplification of genomic DNA at a starting concentration of 0.01 pg/µL.
Conclusion: De novo genome mining of T. pallidum IMRS as amplification primers can serve as a platform for developing ultrasensitive diagnostics for Syphilis and potentially a wide range of infectious pathogens.
Impact of Fiscal Policy on Manufacturing Sector Growth Performance in Nigeria
Authors: Abiola Olawale
Published: May 2024

This research delves into the correlation between Nigeria's manufacturing sector and Government Capital Expenditure. Employing regression analysis, we leverage time series data spanning 1981 to 2022 to shed light on this dynamic relationship. The study affirms the stationarity of all variables after first differencing. Furthermore, the Johansen co-integration test unveils a long-run equilibrium relationship among the selected variables, namely Value of Manufacturing output, Government Capital Expenditure, Value Added Tax, and Customs and Excise Duty. The analysis uncovers a robust and positive connection between the growth performance of the manufacturing sector and Government Capital Expenditure throughout the examined timeframe. The findings indicate that increased Government Capital Expenditure correlates with enhanced growth in the manufacturing sector output. This study underscores the critical role of public investment in fostering economic growth and industrial development. The results suggest that strategic allocation of resources towards infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, and supportive policies can significantly impact the vibrancy and competitiveness of Nigeria's manufacturing sector.
An operational framework to track individual farmland trees over time at national scales using PlanetScope imagery
Authors: Reiner Florian , Gominski Dimitri , Fensholt Rasmus , Brandt Martin
Published: May 2024

Trees outside forests, in particular on croplands, play a crucial role for food security and climate resilience in the Global South, but are threatened by increasing climatic change and human pressures. The dynamics of agroforestry systems and national cropland tree stocks are largely unknown, as currently no robust monitoring system exists to remotely detect single field trees and track changes at national scales. Here we present a framework to track cropland trees at the single tree level across multiple years, using a combination of satellite imagery, deep learning, and object-based change classification. The approach matches annual tree centre predictions to detect changes, such as individual tree losses from logging or tree mortality events. The slope between annual tree prediction confidence heatmaps is also used to detect areas of gains, with possible applications for monitoring plantation and restoration areas. The framework is designed for PlanetScope nano-satellite imagery, which offers unprecedented opportunities for detailed tree monitoring given the combined high spatial and temporal resolution. PlanetScope imagery, however, also come with a range of challenges, which are discussed and for which solutions are proposed. We demonstrate the framework by applying it to a national-scale case study of cropland trees in Tanzania from 2018 to 2022.
Non-financial employer-branding and workforce impetus: the mediating effect on the banking sector
Authors: Monyei Francis Ezieshi , Ukpere Wilfred Isioma
Published: May 2024

Due in large part to their involvement in operationalizing the business aims and strategies of organisations, workers are currently the most valuable tangible asset. It takes efficient, unbiased, and fair employer-branding systems to boost productivity and accelerate the growth of these workforces. This study therefore explores non-financial employer branding and workforce impetus. Through a descriptive research method, data was gathered through a questionnaire set, distributed to the members of staff from Guaranty Trust Bank within the Amuwo Odofin Local Council District in Lagos State, Nigeria. The population is given as 210. The rationale for the selected bank/branches, staff, and geography are based on factors, such as its capital base, number of years in service, and proximity. By applying the Taro Yamane formula, a sample size of 135 was computed. A 5-point Likert scale questionnaire-set was manually distributed to the respondents to collect data. A five 5 % probability level of significance was applied as a decision rule when analysing the data using the Chi-square and percentage frequencies statistical tools. The results reveal the existence of a significant and positive relationship between non-financial employer branding and workforce impetus. Thus proposing implications for policy by asserting that the human capital unit must exercise caution when implementing non-financial employer-branding in the firm's incentive structure because only a limited number of these elements can meaningfully increase staff commitment at work. Thus, its implementation within a biased framework or system would be inefficient and ineffective.
Effect of social media influencers on brand preferences through trust: Moderating role of emotional attachment
Authors: Zaman Khansa , Nawaz Khan Sajjad , Abbas Muhhamad , AbdAlatti Amani
Published: May 2024

Social media influencers have gained immense attention in recent times due to increased use in the cosmetics industry. Trust and emotional attachment play a vital role between influencers and followers. The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of social media influencers’ characteristics on predicting intention to buy the recommended beauty brands through trust and a moderating role of emotional attachment with influencers. A sample size of 342 respondents from Pakistan was used to empirically test the hypothesized relationships. The respondents were social media users who follow renowned celebrities on various social media platforms and buy beauty products based on their recommendations. Thus, a purposive sampling technique was employed for data collection using online and in-person data collection methods. Quantitative techniques of regression and process models were used for data analysis. The findings show that characteristics of social media influencers, such as credibility and trustworthiness, have a significant positive impact (β = 0.521, p < .05) on the intention to buy cosmetic products from a particular brand. Likewise, emotional attachment between influencers and followers strengthens the effect on willingness to buy an endorsed brand approving moderation (β = 0.584, p < .05). Trust is also an important mediator as it plays a central role between characteristics of social media influencers and intention to buy products (β = 0.411, p < .05). This study discussed the implications and future research directions while incorporating research limitations. 
Acknowledgment The authors extend their appreciation to the deanship of scientific research at King Khalid University for funding this work through a large group research project under grant number (RGP. 2/554/45).
CHEMICAL AND DEREPLICATION STUDIES OF Palicourea tomentosa (Aubl.) Borhidi AND THEIR ANTIMICROBIAL AND ANTICHOLINESTERASE ACTIVITIES
Authors: Cecatto Ana , Formagio Anelise , Buzanello-Martins Cleide , Fortuna Caroline , Cabral Márcia , da Costa Willian , Baldoqui Débora , Sarragiotto Maria
Published: May 2024

Palicourea tomentosa (Aubl.) Borhidi (Rubiaceae, Palicoureeae), earlier classified as Psychotria poeppigiana Müll. Arg., is used in folk medicine for a variety of diseases. Biological studies on the plant describes their vasorelaxant, antiplasmodial, antitumoural and anticholinesterase activities. To expand the knowledge on the chemical and biological potential of this species, in this work, phytochemical and dereplication studies, as well as antimicrobial and anticholinesterase evaluation of Palicourea tomentosa were carried out. Phytochemical investigation deals with the isolation of lutein (1), a mixture of dehydrovomifoliol (2) and megastigma-4,7-dien-3-one (3), loliolide (4), 5,13-epoxy-9-hydroxy-megastigma-7-en,3-one (5), vomifoliol (6), asperuloside (7), 3-O-p-coumaroylquinic acid (8), and a mixture of the pyrrolizidinoindoline alkaloids hodgkinsine (9), chimonanthine (10) and psychotriasine (11). The ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS/MS) based on molecular networking dereplication of dichloromethane fraction led to putative identification of other two megastigmanes, one terpene lactone and three carotenoids, besides seven triterpenes and four indole alkaloids. The dichloromethane, ethyl acetate and hydromethanol fractions of P. tomentosa were able to inhibit Candida albicans with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 125, 250 and 125 µg mL-1, respectively. The methanol crude extract, dichloromethane and alkaloid fractions inhibited selectively the butyrilcholinesterase (BuChE) at percentages of 63.09, 60.39 and 56.22%, respectively.
Performance of Bamboo Fibre on Modifying Mechanical Properties of Concrete
Authors: Osmi Siti Khadijah Che , Husen Hapsa , Othman Maidiana , Nor Norazman Mohamad , Sojipto Suriyadi , Termizi Muhammad Asyrah Hafry Mohd
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Towards Go-green’s concept, the use of natural fibres in the construction industry has received substantial attention from many engineering fields. Literature shows that the waste has been used as a replacement or addition material in the concrete mixture for producing lightweight concrete and improving the mechanical properties of the concrete. This innovation is one of the alternative solutions in converting waste into valuable, sustainable materials and consequently reducing the abundance of the waste that may permit environmental pollution.

Aims

This study aims to investigate the mechanical properties of concrete with the addition of bamboo fibre (BF) from species type Bambusa Vulgaris, specifically focusing on the compressive and tensile strength of concrete. The chosen bamboo fibre is adopted because it is largely found in Peninsular Malaysia and has a high tensile strength, as suggested by previous researchers.

Methods

To achieve this, three percentages of the BF, i.e., 0.5%, 1%, and 1.25%, were added to concrete grade M20. The plain concrete i.e., 0% BF, was prepared as a control sample. The performance of BF on modifying the mechanical properties of concrete for both fresh (i.e., slump test) and hardened (i.e., compression and split tensile tests) states were examined after 7 to 28 days of the curing process.

Results

The findings indicate the effectiveness of BF in improving the mechanical properties of the concrete grade M20. It is noted that the concrete samples with the addition of 0.5% BF is considered as the optimum percentage because it able to increase the compressive and tensile strength of concrete grade M20.

Conclusion

This study provides significant information on the ability of BF as a concrete strength enhancer which subsequently converts the abundance of unwanted agriculture by converting the waste to new green and sustainable concrete material.
Facebook Challenge: Integration of Breastfeeding for Sick Babies and E-Training to Enhance the Knowledge of Healthcare Workers
Authors: Kaewwimol Patcharaporn
Published: May 2024

Background

Although the Thailand Breastfeeding Center has supported breastfeeding for sick babies since 2014, it has been found that breastfeeding in infants is still 40% lower than national targets.

Objective

This research aimed to test the effectiveness of online breastfeeding training through social media to further the knowledge of healthcare workers.

Methods

A quasi-experimental research study of a sample group of 60 workers was conducted between the neonatal step-down unit and the postpartum care unit. Research instruments consisted of breastfeeding e-training through a Facebook platform, knowledge testing on the breastfeeding of sick newborns, an online training satisfaction assessment form, data analysis by frequency and percentage, averaging, and testing by t-test, chi-square, and the Fisher exact test.

Results

The mean and standard deviation of knowledge before training in the experiment and control group were 22.40±2.11and 23.43±3.32, respectively. After the intervention, the experimental group was 31.93±1.98, and the control group was 24.06±2.14. It was found that the average knowledge score pertaining to the breastfeeding of high-risk neonates in the group that had undergone online training was higher than the group that had undergone ordinary supervision (p< 0.001).

Conclusion

It can be seen that asynchronous e-training may be one alternative for the knowledge development of healthcare workers in promoting breastfeeding for families with sick newborns.
Delving into Machine Learning's Influence on Disease Diagnosis and Prediction
Authors: Shivahare Basu Dev , Singh Jagendra , Ravi Vinayakumar , Chandan Radha Raman , Alahmadi Tahani Jaser , Singh Prabhishek , Diwakar Manoj
Published: May 2024

Introduction/ Background

Medical diagnoses have increasingly depended on digitized images obtained through cutting-edge technology. These algorithms offer a promising avenue to transform diagnostic processes in healthcare, with their application scope continually widening due to ongoing advancements. This paper explores machine learning's role in clinical analysis and prediction, examining various studies that apply these techniques in clinical diagnosis, focusing on their use in analyzing images and providing accurate diagnoses.

Materials and Methods

This study employs a comparative analysis approach, utilizing diverse machine learning algorithms like SVM, K-nearest neighbors, Random Forests, and Decision Trees to analyze digitized medical images and patient records. We extracted data from several medical databases, ensuring a varied and comprehensive dataset. We also evaluated the impact of different data characteristics on the algorithms' effectiveness, aiming to understand the variability in their diagnostic precision across various conditions.

Results

The results indicate that machine learning algorithms, particularly SVM, K-nearest neighbors, Random Forests, and Decision Trees, demonstrate significant accuracy in diagnosing diseases from digitized images and medical records. SVM and Random Forests showed particularly high effectiveness in clinical diagnosis, suggesting their robustness across different medical conditions and datasets. These findings underscore the potential of machine learning to enhance diagnostic precision and predict illnesses early, aligning with the growing trend of technology-driven medical diagnostics.

Discussion

The findings reinforce the pivotal role of machine learning in transforming medical diagnostics. The variability in algorithm performance highlights the necessity for tailored approaches, considering dataset specifics and the medical condition being diagnosed. This study underscores the potential of machine learning to enhance diagnostic accuracy, yet it also emphasizes the need for continuous refinement and understanding of the underlying factors affecting algorithm performance. Future research should focus on optimizing these algorithms within diverse clinical settings to fully harness their diagnostic capabilities.

Conclusion

This study highlights the transformative potential of machine learning in medical diagnostics, demonstrating how various algorithms can effectively analyze digitized images and patient records to diagnose diseases. While the performance of these algorithms varies based on dataset characteristics, the overall high accuracy underscores machine learning's promise in healthcare. As the field continues to evolve, machine learning is poised to become an integral part of clinical diagnosis, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of medical evaluations and treatments.
Corrigendum to: IMPDH2 Positively Impacts the Proliferation Potential of
Hepatoblastoma Cells by Activating JunB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Yuan Li , Zeng Liang , Ye Feng , Chen Kai , Chen Zhengrong , Li Liping
Published: May 2024

An error occurred in the funding details of the manuscript
titled I“MPDH2 Positively Impacts the Proliferation
Potential of Hepatoblastoma Cells by Activating JunB
Signaling Pathway”, 2024; 17: e18761429257350 [1].

Original:

This work was funded by grants from the National Natural
Science Foundation of China (No. 81802346).

Corrected:
This work was funded by grants from the Basic Research
Program of Guangzhou Science and Technology Program
Project No. 202201010947.

The original article can be found online at
https://benthamscience.com/article/138645
INFLUENCE OF A PREPARATION TRAINING FOR STUDENT COMPETENCY COMPETITIONS IN CAD MECHANICAL
Authors: Ardianto Fiki , Subandi Subandi , Jarwopuspito Jarwopuspito , Efendi Yosep
Published: May 2024

Lomba Ketrampilan Siswa (LKS) is an annual activity in student competency competition among students at the Vocational High School (VHS) [R1] level in accordance with the areas of expertise taught at each participant's school. This activity is one part of a series of selections to get the best students from all over Indonesia who will be guided by teams in their respective areas of expertise and included in international level competency competencies. Students who take part in the LKS competition are students who are chosen by their school. To get the title of champion, of course, there is a lot of preparation that must be undertaken and one of them is training. This study aims to present data regarding the training program that students undergo as preparation for regional-level LKS competitions. This research uses a qualitative approach with a descriptive research type. The results of this study found that there were several scheduled, independent and incidental training programs
THE EFFECT OF THE PROJECT BASED LEARNING MODEL ON IMPROVING THE COMPETENCE OF PRACTICAL LEARNING OF VOCATIONAL STUDENTS: A REVIEW
Authors: Dewangga Andrian Wisnu , Ahmad Noesanto Dewantoro
Published: May 2024

This research aims to evaluate the effect of implementing the Project Based Learning (PjBL) Model on increasing the practical learning competence of Vocational High School students. Data collection was carried out through a literature review. This research is a literature review research that adopts a narrative review type, which aims to comprehensively investigate and analyze various scientific articles related to the research topic. Identify relevant literature, researchers conducted a search using the keyword "project-based learning model" on Google Scholar. Of the 13 journals found, 6 journals were not relevant and were excluded from the analysis. The results of this research indicate that project-based learning has the potential to be an effective method in improving students' practical skills in vocational schools, helping to build students' self-confidence in studying practical material, and providing a positive impact on students' participation in learning. The implication of this research is the importance of implementing PjBL as an effective learning strategy in improving vocational school students' competence in the context of practical learning
Health Information System Strengthening During Antenatal Care in Haiti: Continuous Quality Improvement Study
Authors: Casella Jean-Baptiste Meredith , Vital Julmiste Thamar Monide , Ball Ellen
Published: May 2024

Background

Journey to 9 Plus (J9) is an integrated reproductive, maternal, neonatal, and child health approach to care that has at its core the goal of decreasing the rate of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality in rural Haiti. For the maximum effectiveness of this program, it is necessary that the data system be of the highest quality. OpenMRS, an electronic medical record (EMR) system, has been in place since 2013 throughout a tertiary referral hospital, the Hôpital Universitaire de Mirebalais, in Haiti and has been expanded for J9 data collection and reporting. The J9 program monthly reports showed that staff had limited time and capacity to perform double charting, which contributed to incomplete and inconsistent reports. Initial evaluation of the quality of EMR data entry showed that only 18% (58/325) of the J9 antenatal visits were being documented electronically at the start of this quality improvement project.

Objective

This study aimed to improve the electronic documentation of outpatient antenatal care from 18% (58/325) to 85% in the EMR by J9 staff from November 2020 to September 2021. The experiences that this quality improvement project team encountered could help others improve electronic data collection as well as the transition from paper to electronic documentation within a burgeoning health care system.

Methods

A continuous quality improvement strategy was undertaken as the best approach to improve the EMR data collection at Hôpital Universitaire de Mirebalais. The team used several continuous quality improvement tools to conduct this project: (1) a root cause analysis using Ishikawa and Pareto diagrams, (2) baseline evaluation measurements, and (3) Plan-Do-Study-Act improvement cycles to document incremental changes and the results of each change.

Results

At the beginning of the quality improvement project in November 2020, the baseline data entry for antenatal visits was 18% (58/325). Ten months of improvement strategies resulted in an average of 89% (272/304) of antenatal visits documented in the EMR at point of care every month.

Conclusions

The experiences that this quality improvement project team encountered can contribute to the transition from paper to electronic documentation within burgeoning health care systems. Essential to success was having a strong and dedicated nursing leadership to transition from paper to electronic data and motivated nursing staff to perform data collection to improve the quality of data and thus, the reports on patient outcomes. Engaging the nursing team closely in the design and implementation of EMR and quality improvement processes ensures long-term success while centering nurses as key change agents in patient care systems.
Prediction and Determinants of Visual Impairment among Chinese Middle-aged and Elderly Adults: Machine Learning Algorithms (Preprint)
Authors: Mao Lijun , Yu Zhen , Lin Luotao , Sharma Manoi , Song Hualing , Zhao Hailei , Xu Xianglong
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Visual impairment (VI) is a prevalent global health issue, affecting over 2.2 billion people worldwide, with nearly half of the Chinese population aged 60 and above being affected. Early detection of high-risk VI is essential for preventing irreversible vision loss among Chinese middle-aged and elderly adults. While machine learning (ML) algorithms exhibit significant predictive advantages, their application in predicting VI risk among the general middle-aged and elderly population in China remains limited.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to predict VI and identify its determinants using ML algorithms.

METHODS

We used 19,047 participants from four waves of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) that were conducted between 2011 and 2018. To envisage the prevalence of VI, we generated a geographical distribution map. Additionally, we constructed a model using indicators of self-reported questionnaire, physical examination, and blood biomarkers as predictors. Multiple ML algorithms, including gradient boosting machine (GBM), dynamic random forest (DRF), generalised linear model (GLM), deep learning (DL), and stacked ensemble, were used for prediction. We plotted receiver operating characteristics (ROC) and calibration curves to assess the predictive performance. Variable importance analysis was used to identify key predictors.

RESULTS

Among 19,047 participants, 33.9% suffered from VI. Qinghai, Chongqing, Anhui, and Sichuan showed the highest VI rates, while Beijing and Xinjiang had the lowest. GLM, GBM, and stacked ensemble achieved acceptable area under curve values of 0.706, 0.710, and 0.715, respectively, with the stacked ensemble performing best. Key predictors included hearing impairment, self-expectation of health status, pain, age, hand grip strength, depression, night sleep duration, haemoglobin, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and arthritis or rheumatism.

CONCLUSIONS

Nearly one-third of middle-aged and elderly adults in China had VI. The prevalence of VI shows regional variations, but no distinct east-west or north-south distribution differences. ML algorithms demonstrate accurate predictive capabilities for VI. The combination of prediction models and variable importance analysis provides valuable insights for the early identification and intervention of VI among Chinese middle-aged and elderly adults.
Differences in prevalence of urinary diseases among prisoners in Taiwan: a cross-sectional study (Preprint)
Authors: Wang Yen-Chun , Jiesisibieke Zhu Liduzi , Wang Bing‑Long , Yang Yu‑Pei , Tung Tao-Hsin
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Prisoner health is an important global health concern. However, studies of this topic in Asia are limited.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore and compare the prevalence rates of urinary diseases in Taiwanese prisoners.

METHODS

The data of prisoners from the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) were used in this study. Urinary diseases (codes 580–599) were identified using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) codes. Sex- and age-stratified analyses were conducted to determine the different prevalence rates of urinary diseases.

RESULTS

We examined 83 048 prisoners, including 2998 with urinary diseases. The prevalence of urinary system diseases among prisoners was 3.61%. The prevalence in men was lower than that in women (prevalence ratio: 0.46, P<.0001), and the prevalence in prisoners aged >40 was higher than in prisoners aged ≤ 40 (prevalence ratio: 1.69, P<.0001). Female and older adult inmates had a high prevalence of most urinary system diseases.

CONCLUSIONS

Urinary system infections and inflammation are common in prisons. Integrated services and interventions must be provided to prisoners to enhance medical accessibility and availability. Further research connecting claims data and prisoner information is important for providing more comprehensive medical services to achieve health equity.
Editorial
Authors: Seck-Tuoh-Mora Juan Carlos
Published: May 2024

Los trabajos en el dosier de este número se enfocan, primero, a problemas arquitectónicos y su relevancia urbana y social, y, después, se abordan problemas de ingeniería que van desde la aplicación de algoritmos computacionales en situaciones industriales, hasta el empleo de métodos y herramientas sistémicas para tratar problemas de género y de salud.
Sicarios y estigma: el mercado laboral de la violencia estructural y la masculinidad asociada
Authors: Urbiola Solís Alejandra Elizabeth , Martínez Soto Lorena
Published: May 2024

El artículo aborda el estudio de los cárteles como organizaciones con una variedad de actividades incluyendo las de protección operativa y el sicariato. El objetivo fue explorar la percepción de los sicarios sobre su actividad dentro de la organización y los medios que utilizan para reducir el estigma que conlleva la actividad. El artículo busca visibilizar la perspectiva de los sicarios y generar propuestas analíticas en el análisis organizacional, incluyendo la perspectiva de género y una masculinidad asociada con las condiciones del entorno social y con la orientación delictiva de los cárteles. Utilizamos el método cualitativo de investigación documental y la realización de entrevistas durante 2022. Entre los principales resultados encontramos de una violencia extrema el entorno sociocultural en el cual se desenvuelve la actividad del sicario, acompañado, además, de características asociadas con la masculinidad como la aversión al riesgo, la fuerza, el arrojo, la ostentación, sumando, en el caso de su actividad, la impunidad, la crueldad y la despojabilidad del cuerpo. Para enfrentar el estigma se recurre a nuevas formas de sacralización, las cuales conectan la actividad del sicario con la protección de nuevos santos.