bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolative Green Synthesis and Characterization of Cellulose and Cellulose Nanocrystals from Typha Augostifolia
Authors: Mesoppirr Lynda S. , Suter Evans K. , Omwoyo Wesley N. , Oyaro Nathan M. , Nelana Simphiwe M.
Published: February 2024

The application potential of cellulosic materials in natural composites and other fields needs to be explored to develop innovative, sustainable, lightweight, functional biomass materials that are also environmentally friendly. This study investigated Typha augostifolia (Typha sp.) as a potential new raw material for extracting cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) for application in wastewater treatment composites. Alkaline treatments and bleaching were used to remove cellulose from the stem fibers. The CNCs were then isolated from the recovered cellulose using acid hydrolysis. The study showed a few distinct functional groups (O-H, -C-H, =C-H and C-O, and C-O-C) in the Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectra. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) revealed the smooth surface of CPC and CNCs that resulted from removing lignin and hemicellulose from powdered Typha augostifolia. Based on the crystalline index, the powdered Typha augostifolia, CPC, and CNCs were 42.86%, 66.94% and 77.41%. The loss of the amorphous section of the Typha sp. fiber resulted in a decrease in particle size. It may be inferred from the features of a Typha sp. CNC that CNCs may be employed as reinforcement in composites for wastewater treatment.
Influence of Riparian Conditions on Physical Instream Habitats in Trout Streams in Southeastern Minnesota, USA
Authors: Varela Will L. , Mundahl Neal D. , Staples David F. , Greene Rachel H. , Bergen Silas , Cochran-Biederman Jennifer , Weaver Cole R.
Published: February 2024

Rivers across the globe experience and respond to changes within the riparian corridor. Disturbance of the riparian corridor can affect warmwater, intermediate, and coldwater streams, which can negatively influence instream physical structure and biological communities. This study focused on assessing the influence of riparian habitat on instream structure within the Whitewater River, a coldwater stream system within an agricultural watershed in southeastern Minnesota, USA. Twenty variables (riparian, n = 9; instream, n = 11) were measured at 57 sites across three forks of the Whitewater. Canonical correlation detected significant associations between riparian and instream variables across the river forks, and indicated that wider riparian buffers, more bank grass and shrubs, longer overhanging vegetation, limited bare soil and more rocks on banks were significantly associated with increased instream cover, high levels of coarse substrates with reduced embeddedness, increased pool habitats, and reduced fine sediments. In contrast, excessive fine sediments, lack of riffle habitat, reduced coarse substrates, and high width to depth ratios indicative of impaired instream habitat were associated with narrow riparian buffers and high percentages of bare soil on banks. Riparian corridors have the capacity to enhance and protect physical instream habitat and overall ecosystem health when managed properly. Wide, grassy riparian corridors with stable banks, overhanging vegetation, and limited shade from trees should protect and/or enhance instream physical habitat, providing the structural diversity favored by aquatic communities.
Epidemiology of Dewclaw Dermatitis in Beef Cattle in the Amazon Biome
Authors: Barbosa José Diomedes , Dos Santos Janayna Barroso , Oliveira Hanna Gabriela da Silva , Ferreira Tatiane Teles Albernaz , Da Silveira José Alcides Sarmento , Barbosa Camila Cordeiro , Brito Marilene Farias , Da Silveira Natalia da Silva e Silva , Oliveira Carlos Magno Chaves , Bomjardim Henrique dos Anjos , Salvarani Felipe Masiero
Published: February 2024

Bovine Dewclaw Dermatitis (BDCD) is a hoof disease characterized by inflammation of the second and fifth accessory digits and the skin in this region. This pathology is poorly described in the literature; however, it has recently been observed in beef cattle in the Amazon Biome, Brazil. The objective of this study was to identify the epidemiological factors associated with BDCD onset in cattle in the analyzed biome. Samples were collected from eight farms with extensive breeding systems located in Xinguara, Rondon do Pará, Curionópolis, and Ipixuna do Pará, in the state of Pará, Brazil. A total of 706 Nellore and Nellore crossbred with taurine bovine of both sexes were evaluated, with males aged between 2–4 years and a mean weight of 650 kg and females aged between 2–11 years and a mean weight of 400 kg. Distal extremities were inspected during cattle management, and in case of dewclaw lesions, a specific examination was carried out after proper restraint. Bovine were diagnosed with BDCD in all farms analyzed. Of the 706 cattle inspected, 49 (6.94%) showed BDCD, of which 19 (38.77%) were Nellore and 30 (61.22%) were crossbred. This was the first study to determine BDCD’s occurrence in extensive farming systems in the Amazon re-gion, also showing that pastures with large amounts of stumps and stones, the physical structure of pens, and trauma and injury incidence during animal management are the most important pre-disposing factors for the onset of BDCD.
A Self-Adaptive Automatic Incident Detection System for Road Surveillance based on Deep Learning
Authors: Bartolomé-Hornillos César , San-José-Revuelta Luis M. , Aguiar-Pérez Javier M. , García-Serrada Carlos , Vara-Pazos Eduardo , Casaseca-de-la-Higuera Pablo
Published: February 2024

We present an automatic road incident detector characterized by a low computational complexity for easy implementation in affordable devices, automatic adaptability to changes in scenery and road conditions, and automatic detection of the most common incidents (vehicles with abnormal speed, pedestrians or objects fallen on the road, vehicles stopped on the shoulder and detection of kamikaze vehicles). To achieve these goals, different tasks have been addressed: lane segmentation, identification of traffic directions and elimination of unnecessary objects in the foreground. The proposed system has been tested on a collection of videos recorded in real scenarios with real traffic, including areas with different lighting. Self-adaptability (plug & play) to different scenarios has been tested using videos with significant scene changes. The achieved system can process a minimum of 80 video frames within the camera’s field of view, covering a distance of 400 meters, all within a span of 12 seconds. This capability ensures that vehicles travelling at speeds of 120 km/h are seamless detected with more than enough margin. Additionally, our analysis has revealed a substantial improvement in incident detection with respect to previous approaches. Specifically, an increase in accuracy of 2-5% in automatic mode, and 2-7% in semi-automatic mode. The proposed classifier module only needs 2.3 MBytes of GPU to carry out the inference, thus allowing implementation in low cost devices.
Registered Nurses’ Well-Being, Michigan, 2022
Authors: Titler Marita G. , Medvec Barbara R. , Marriott Deanna J. , Khadr Lara , Friese Christopher R.
Published: February 2024

Objectives. To examine nurses’ well-being and identify individual and workplace factors associated with adverse outcomes.

Methods. We administered an e-mail survey to registered nurses in Michigan in March 2022. Outcomes included the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory–Exhaustion scale, self-harm thoughts (yes/no), and overall wellness on a 0 to 10 visual analog scale. Covariates included practice environment, psychological safety, workplace abuse, staffing adequacy, stress coping strategies, and demographics. We examined associations between covariates and exhaustion, thoughts of self-harm (both via logistic regression), and overall wellness (via linear regression).

Results. Among surveyed nurses, 93.63% reported significant exhaustion, 9.88% reported self-harm thoughts, and the mean (SD) overall wellness score was 6.2 (2.3). Factors associated with exhaustion included inadequate staffing, lower psychological safety, and younger age. Factors associated with self-harm thoughts included recent workplace physical abuse and younger age. Factors associated with higher wellness scores included employer support, favorable practice environments, higher job satisfaction, and positive coping strategies.

Conclusions. Negative well-being outcomes were prevalent among registered nurses and were associated with correctable workplace deficits. Nurses’ well-being is a national public health problem that warrants comprehensive interventions at individual, workplace, and community levels. ( Am J Public Health. 2024;114(S2):S180–S188. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2023.307376 )
Addressing Health Care Workers’ Mental Health: A Systematic Review of Evidence-Based Interventions and Current Resources
Authors: Anger W. Kent , Dimoff Jennifer K. , Alley Lindsey
Published: February 2024

Background. Mental health is declining in health care workers.

Objectives. To provide a comprehensive assessment of intervention literature focused on the support and treatment of mental health within the health care workforce.

Search Methods. We searched online databases (e.g., Medline, PsycINFO).

Selection Criteria. We selected manuscripts published before March 2022 that evaluated the target population (e.g., nurses), mental health outcomes (e.g., burnout, depression), and intervention category (e.g., mindfulness).

Data Collection and Analysis. Of 5158 publications screened, 118 interventions were included. We extracted relevant statistics and information.

Main Results. Twenty (17%) earned study quality ratings indicating design, analysis, and implementation strengths. Randomized controlled trials were used by 52 studies (44%). Thirty-eight percent were conducted in the United States (n = 45). Ninety (76%) reported significant changes, and 46 (39%) reported measurable effect sizes. Multiple interventions significantly reduced stress (n = 29; 24%), anxiety (n = 20; 17%), emotional exhaustion or compassion fatigue (n = 16; 14%), burnout (n = 15; 13%), and depression (n = 15; 13%).

Authors’ Conclusions. Targeted, well-designed mental health interventions can improve outcomes among health care workers.

Public Health Implications. Targeted health care‒focused interventions to address workers’ mental health could improve outcomes within this important and vulnerable workforce. ( Am J Public Health. 2024;114(S2):S213–S226. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2023.307556 )
Hospitalist Shared Leadership for Safety, Health, and Well-Being at Work: United States, 2022‒2023
Authors: Schwatka Natalie V. , Keniston Angela , Astik Gopi , Linker Anne , Sakumoto Matthew , Bowling Gregory , Auerbach Andrew , Burden Marisha
Published: February 2024

We assessed how hospitalists frame workplace safety, health, and well-being (SHW); their perception of hospital supports for SHW; and whether and how they are sharing leadership responsibility for each other’s SHW. Our findings highlight the important role of local support for hospitalist SHW and reveal the systemic, hospital-wide problems that may impede their SHW. We believe that positioning hospitalists as leaders for SHW will result in systems-wide changes in practices to support the SHW of all care team members. ( Am J Public Health. 2024;114(S2):S162–S166. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307573 )
Evaluation of the seminal plasma of captive and wild scale carp Cyprinus carpio var. communis in Kashmir, India
Authors: Ishrat Mohd  , Farooz Ahmad Bhat  , M. H. Balkhi  , Tasaduq Hussain Shah  , Bilal Ahmad Bhat  , Shah Feroz Ahmad , Asifa wali
Published: February 2024

Evaluating gamete quality in fish is vital for aquaculture success. This study explores how thehabitat, whether wild or farmed, affects the physical and biochemical composition of scalecarp seminal fluid. Understanding these factors is essential for assessing the reproductivecapabilities of fish species. The seminal plasma contained 70.64±10.75 mg dl-1 glucose,1.99±1.15 g dl-1 total protein, 12.99±5.6 mg dl-1 triglyceride, 5.98±0.629 mg dl-1 cholesteroland 25.22±4.047 mg dl-1 urea in wild conditions, whereas in farmed conditions, the seminalplasma contained 85.06±9.29 mg dl-1 glucose, 0.917±0.62 g dl-1 total protein, 12.3±5.22 mg dl-1triglyceride, 5.53±1.161 mg dl-1 cholesterol and 28.4±5.75 mg dl-1 urea. The physicalparameters like mean sperm volume, mean sperm motility, mean movement duration,mean sperm density and mean pH recorded in the in the wild fishes were 2.393±1.64 ml,75.038±10.162%, 50.367±13.92, 3.534±.272 109 ml and 8.29±.494, while the parametersin farmed fishes were 1.486±0.88 ml, 68.9±12.46%, 44.66±13.48 s, 3.84±0.181109 mland 8.5±0.311 respectively. In correlation matrix, the sperm volume (R2=0.247, p<0.01),pH (R2=0.059, p<0.01) and total protein (R2=0.1882, p<0.01) showed significant positivecorrelations with sperm motility. Wild brooders outperformed cultured counterpartsin several aspects, viz., milt volume, sperm motility percentage, duration, total protein,triglyceride and cholesterol levels. However, cultured males exhibited elevated glucose andurea concentrations, possibly indicating stress from captivity, handling, or confinementand increased urea due to ammonia in ponds. These findings underscore the importanceof considering these parameters in standardising artificial fertilisation or cryopreservationtechniques for common carp spermatozoa.
Keywords:Biochemical parameters, Cyprinus carpio var. communis, Farmed, Sperm motility, Wild
Structural and Parametric Optimization of Steam Boiler Injection Regulators
Authors: Kulakov G. T. , Voyush N. V.
Published: February 2024

Steam temperature control significantly affects the efficiency, reliability and durability of steam boilers. In the article, special attention is paid to substantiating the relevance of a significant increase in the efficiency of steam boiler injection regulators operating in a wide range of load changes. It is indicated that one of the main directions of solving this problem is the use of optimal regulators with dynamic compensation and combined principles of regulation for deviation and perturbation at the same time. A combined automatic control system is proposed with full invariance with respect to the most dangerous measured internal disturbance and with partial invariance when working out an external disturbance with specified permissible deviations of the controlled parameter. At the same time, in order to improve the quality of regulation under the main influences, it is proposed to carry out optimization with the use of the transfer functions of the leading and main sections of the control object as well as to turn the internal contour of the two-circuit system into an amplifier with a single transmission coefficient when working out the corrective action. Also, it is proposed to form the structure of the corrective regulator on the basis of the principle of dynamic compensation for objects with a conditional delay along the channel of regulatory action, which makes it possible to ensure the specified quality of regulation when working out the control action surge. Thus, a significant increase in speed and accuracy is achieved when working out internal and external measured disturbances compared to a typical two-circuit system or an invariant automatic control system with an internal model, which makes it possible to recommend the proposed invariant cascade automatic control system for widespread implementation in the field of automation of thermal power processes.
Assessment of the influence of electromagnetic noise radiation in the WiFi range on the emotional state of the operator
Authors: Sidorenko A. V. , Saladukha M. A.
Published: February 2024

Experimental studies of electroencephalograms of an operator located in conditions of electromagnetic noise radiation in the WiFi range were carried out. Electroencephalograms were recorded in standard leads Fp1, Fp2, F3, F4, C3, C4, P3, P4, O1, O2, F7, F8, T3, T4, T5, T6, Fpz, Fz, Cz, Pz, Oz. The quantitative parameters of the operator's emotional state, expressed by the power spectral density of the rhythmic components of the brain, as well as such information parameters as sample entropy, fractal dimension, Lempel-Ziv complexity, averaged for 10 subjects were analyzed. It has been shown that when exposed to radiation, the operator experiences depression. It has been shown that the trend of changes in the parameters of the spectral power density of theta, alpha, gamma rhythms, fractal dimension, Lempel-Ziv complexity, sample entropy in most leads of electroencephalograms coincides with the trend of changes in these parameters presented in the scientific literature in depression. It has been established that the operator experiences fear, which is determined by an increase in the fractal dimension parameter of electroencephalograms by no more than 0.4% relative to the background
Plan de negocio para la exportación de café filtrante al mercado de Estados Unidos año 2022
Authors:   , Estela Vila Lilibet Gemenis , Pariona Hunton Alex Ronald
Published: February 2024

El presente trabajo consiste en realizar un plan de negocio de un producto innovador, que se trata de exportar un café filtrante, manteniendo las características de un café arábico tradicional con su misma textura, sabor y aroma, la diferencia es en una nueva presentación en bolsas filtrantes, pensando en la necesidad de nuestro público objetivo ahorrando tiempo y disfrutando una taza de café, la cual el nombre comercial del producto es “Perla Coffee”. Debido al análisis gestionado se verifica que el mercado a exportar es para el destino de Estados Unidos – California ya que cuenta con el perfil de un consumidor que le gusta el café y valora mucho el tiempo por esta razón el producto cumple con satisfacer las necesidades, sumado así mismo que el mercado es accesible sin obstáculos arancelarios. Asimismo, se ha investigado el mercado estadounidense, que se encuentra en crecimiento en el consumo de café, sobre todo el café orgánico. En tal sentido el plan consiste en vender un producto nuevo, sobretodo orgánico de acuerdo a las exigencias del mercado. El objetivo del proyecto es lograr la aceptación de consumo del café filtrante "Perla Coffee" en un 10% del mercado a exportar Estados Unidos durante el primer año y tener un crecimiento de mercado de 20% anual. En efecto, el resultado del proyecto es favorable al obtener buenos indicadores financieros, como el Valor Actual Neto (VAN) de 842.515.00 soles y La Tasa Interna de Retorno (TIR) 102%, por tanto, el proyecto es viable con buenos márgenes de utilidad
Implementación de la estrategia de tamizaje y tratamiento, en la prevención de lesiones pre-malignas de cérvix uterino en un Centro de Atención Primaria
Authors:   , Enciso Vilcapoma Judith
Published: February 2024

Es lamentable que en el Perú las mujeres mueran por causa de Cáncer Cervicouterino. Según los informes de Ministerio de Salud del Perú, ocupamos el tercer lugar de diagnósticos en este tipo de cáncer, por tanto, cada 5 horas muere una mujer, lo que contribuye al incremento de la tasa de mortalidad. Esto es terrible, para una sociedad donde el rol de la mujer es trascendental no solo por el aporte económico, social y emocional que ella brinda a su hogar, sino también por ser sostén del equilibrio entre la familia y la comunidad. El estudio del Cáncer Cervicouterino, ha permitido conocer su historia natural. Se requiere de más de 10 años, para que una lesión inicial pre cancerígena evolucione a una lesión maligna, teniendo como agente etiológico al Virus del Papiloma Humano (PVH), sobre todo, los tipos 16 y 18, considerados con mayor capacidad oncogénica. La lesión pre maligna de Cérvix Uterino, es una alteración precancerosa que involucra el epitelio del Cuello Uterino, específicamente la zona de transformación, debido a que en esta área se dan los cambios de epitelio endocervical cilíndrico mono estratificado, a un epitelio exocervical poli estratificado plano; por lo que esta zona está más expuesta al efecto de diversas noxas, en especial al Virus del Papiloma Humano (PVH). Las alteraciones ocasionadas a nivel celular son denominadas displasias; las que por el sistema de clasificación se designan como Neoplasia Intraepitelial Cervical (NIC); dichas lesiones son de lenta y progresiva evolución, comprometiendo las diferentes capas del epitelio, traspasando finalmente la membrana basal, llamadas Cáncer Insitu; logrando así su avance hacia lesiones malignas.
Factores de riesgo de sepsis neonatal temprana en nacimientos ocurridos en madres adolescentes entre 15 y 19 años en el periodo de octubre 2016 a 2018 en el Hospital Docente Madre Niño San Bartolome
Authors:   , Aguirre Alvarez Karina Laura
Published: February 2024

Introducción: La sepsis neonatal es una de las enfermedades más peligrosa que afecta a todos los países del mundo, ocasionando una alta mortalidad neonatal. En nuestro país 7.5 por 1000 nacidos vivos es diagnosticado con sepsis neonatal, siendo la segunda causa de mortalidad neonatal. Objetivo del estudio: Identificar los factores de riesgo asociados a sepsis neonatal temprana en nacimientos ocurridos en madres adolescentes entre 15 y 19 años en el periodo de octubre 2016 a octubre 2018 en Hospital Docente Madre Niño San Bartolomé, con la finalidad de contribuir a disminuir la mortalidad neonatal. Metodología: Se realizó un estudio observacional, analítico (caso control) y retrospectivo. La población consta de todos los recién nacidos en el Hospital Docente Madre Niño San Bartolomé en el periodo de octubre 2016 a octubre 2018. La variable dependiente fue la sepsis neonatal temprana. Se trabajó con un tamaño muestral de 152 casos y 152 controles (ratio 1:1). Los datos se obtuvieron de las historias clínicas. Para la estadística inferencial se usó el programa EPIDAT 4.2 para casos y controles de grupos independientes, tomando en cuenta 1 control por cada caso. El Odds ratio a detectar fue de 2 debido a que se considero una precisión relativa al 25% con un nivel de confianza de 95%.
Optimizing of a Metal Foam-Assisted Solar Air Heater Performance: A Thermo-hydraulic Analysis of Porous Insert Placement
Authors: Al-Chlaihawi kadhim , Hasan Moayed , Ekaid Ali
Published: February 2024

A numerical assessment of the heat transfer efficacy of a Solar Air Heater (SAH) was carried out. The SAH is supplied with a porous metal foam layer to improve thermal mixing. Both the two temperature equations assuming Local Thermal Non-equilibrium (LTNE) and Darcy-Extended Forchheimer (DEF) models were employed to forecast fluid and thermal transport within the partly filled SAH channel. The analysis was performed for various values of foam layer lengths (𝑆 = 0 − 1), pore densities (𝜔 = 10 − 40 𝑃𝑃𝐼), and Reynolds numbers (𝑅𝑒 = 4000 − 16,000) at a fixed value of layer thickness (𝐻𝑓 = 0.6). Based on the position of the porous layer, three distinct arrangements, marked as Case 1, Case 2, and Case 3 were explored. Regarding the parameters examined, the findings indicate a definite improvement in the average Nusselt number (𝑁𝑢), but unfortunately, the friction factor also increases unfavorably. By reducing the length of the porous layer, a reasonable reduction in heat transfer rate and a significant decrease in pressure drop were noticed. The results showed about 26.64%, 48.73% and 70.74% reductions in pressure drop by reducing the dimensionless foam length from 1 to 0.25, 0.5 and 0.75 respectively for 𝜔 = 10 at 𝑅𝑒 = 16,000. In contrast there are only about 11.05%, 23.11% and 40.78% reductions in 𝑁𝑢. The exhaustive analysis of the thermal performance of SAH was conducted using the thermal performance factor (TPF), which considers the trade-off between the SAH channel's potential for improved heat transmission and its cost for pressure loss. The TPF may reach a maximum of 2.82 compared to the empty channel when the metal foam layer is inserted with 𝑆 = 1, for 𝜔 = 10, and 𝑅𝑒 = 16,000.
Energy security and its determinants in New Zealand
Authors: Solaymani Saeed
Published: February 2024

New Zealand is an importer of fossil fuels, with around 38% of its primary energy derived from these sources. Due to its population and economic growth, New Zealand’s energy demand is projected to increase by 28% between 2020 and 2030, adding more pressure on the energy system. Moreover, the growing concern over the scarcity of resources, volatility in energy prices, and environmental challenges has made energy security one of its primary focuses. The object of this study is to investigate the main determinants of energy security using the dynamic autoregressive distributed lag method based on time series data from 1978 to 2021. The results of this study show that there is a long-run link between energy security and energy intensity (energy efficiency), renewable energy use, fossil fuel consumption, and global oil prices. Real GDP, renewable energy consumption, and energy security improve energy security, while fossil fuel consumption and world oil prices decrease it. A unidirectional causality exists from real GDP, fossil fuel consumption, and renewable energy use to energy security. The causality link between energy intensity and energy security is bidirectional. The simulation results indicate that the impact of global crude oil prices on energy security is significantly lower compared to other variables. It responds greatly to a 5% shock to fossil fuel consumption compared to other variables, followed by economic growth.
Investigation of performance degradation by airborne dust particles accumulated on photovoltaic modules in Bangladesh
Authors: Sharmin Afrina , Ahmed Shahran , Sultana Munira , Alam Md. Rashed , Bashar Muhammad Shahriar
Published: February 2024

Airborne dust accumulation on open-air photovoltaic modules reduces the transparency of solar cell glazing in dry weather and results in a considerable lessening of the photovoltaic module's capacity to transform sunlight into electricity. This experiment studied how airborne dust on a solar PV module affects open circuit voltage, short circuit current, maximum power, Fill Factor, and module efficiency at different times of the year. The dust accumulation occurs naturally outdoors, and all the parameters are measured in an indoor setup at 25°C and 1000 W/m2 irradiance from June to November 2015 in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The highest dust deposition density is 23.76 gm/cm3 obtained in November and the measured efficiency loss is above 27% for that day depending on the weather conditions and dust accumulation. From the I-V curve analysis, the obtained curve is nearly identical for clean and dusty photovoltaic panels. Dusty panel curves capture a smaller area, reducing energy production. The current reduces significantly for the dusty module, resulting in a power output of 172–232 W compared to 235–238 W for the clean module. The obtained results elaborately demonstrate how dust accumulation significantly reduces the efficiency of solar cells.
SLC25A37 is casually associated with the increased incidence of benign prostatic hyperplasia
Authors: Xue Wei , Tong Zhen , Zhang Wei , Wu Xinrui , Du Xinxing , Peng Zehong , Dong Liang
Published: February 2024

The etiology of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) remains unclear. Here, we conducted a combined analysis integrating single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and Mendelian randomization (MR) to reveal the causal effect of potential genes associated with the incidence of BPH. Based on scRNA-seq, we found the number of monocytes increased in prostate transition zone tissues of BPH patients and analyzed the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) specific to monocytes. We identified SLC25A37, a member of solute carrier transporters, was casually associated with increased incidence of BPH based on MR, Bayesian colocalization, and reverse MR analyses. Follow-up analysis showed SLC25A37 was involved in inflammation and cell proliferation-related signaling pathways in classical monocytes in prostate transition zone tissues. We also revealed the potential associations between the SLC25A37 gene and BPH pathogenic genes, current BPH drug targets, as well as the patient’s age, providing novel insights into the underlying mechanism and potential therapeutic options of BPH.
Comparison of the macro-, meso- and microplastic pollution in French riverbanks and beaches using citizen science with schoolchildren
Authors: Philip Léna , Picard Maela Le , Lavergne Edouard , Bourgain Pascaline , Sabard Brigitte , Troublé Romain , Meistertzheim Anne-Leila , Ludwig Wolfgang , Halle Alexandra ter , Lacroix Camille , Ghiglione Jean-Francois
Published: February 2024

Rivers are the major source of anthropogenic litters entering the ocean, especially plastic debris that accumulate in all ecosystems around the world and pose a risk to the biota. Reliable data on distribution, abundance and types of stranded plastics are needed, especially on riverbanks that have received less attention than beaches. Here, we present the citizen science initiative Plastique à la loupe (Plastic under the magnifier), that compares for the first time the distribution of different litter sizes (macrolitters, meso- and microplastics) over 81 riverbanks and 66 beaches sampled in France between 2019 and 2021. A total of 149 classes (3,113 schoolchildren) from middle class to high school collected, sorted and enumerated 55,986 pieces of plastic to provide a baseline of the current pollution by stranded debris at the national level. Single-use plastics (mainly food-related items) were very abundant on riverbanks (43%), whereas fragmented debris dominated the macrolitter on beaches (28%). Microplastics were always higher in number compared to mesoplastics and macrolitter, with polystyrene and polyethylene found in equivalent proportions on riverbanks while polyethylene dominated microplastics on beaches. Tracing the source of plastic items was possible only for a small proportion of the numerous collected items, mainly for identifiable macrolitter and microplastic pellets. This study lays out the foundations for further works using Plastique à la loupe citizen science initiative in France and additional comparisons to other studied habitats worldwide, which can be used by scientists and policy-makers for future litter monitoring, prevention and clean-up strategies.
Validation of Combiomed Hipermax-BF model A7101 automatic oscillometric arm sphygmomanometer in general population: AAMI/ESH/ISO Universal Standard (ISO 81060-2:2018)
Authors: Gonzalez Yamile Valdes , Véliz Damaris Hernández , Rojas Nurys Armas , García Reinaldo De la Noval , Ringrose Jennifer , Padwal Raj
Published: February 2024

This study was designed to evaluate the accuracy of the Hipermax-BF model A7101 automatic oscillometric arm sphygmomanometer (Combiomed, Havana, Cuba) in general population. The research was developed according to the Universal Standard AAMI/ESH/ISO (ISO 81060-2:2018) and the ISO 81060-2:2018/DAM amendment 1 of 2020. The subjects were recruited according to the requirements of age, gender, blood pressure values and arm circumference based on the recommendations. The same arm sequential blood pressure measurement method was used. For measurements with the device under test, the 2-piece cuff was used. 92 subjects were recruited and 85 were analyzed. Mean age was 44.8 ± 14.7 years, mean arm circumference was 32.3 ± 6.2, and 56.5% were female. For Validation Criterion 1, the mean value ± standard deviation of the differences in readings between the device under test and the reference device was 1.2 ± 4.9/0.8 ± 4.9 mmHg (systolic/diastolic). For both pressures, in criterion 1 the standard requires a mean value of the differences ≤ ± 5 mmHg and a standard deviation ≤ ± 8 mmHg. For Validation Criterion 2, the standard deviation of the mean blood pressure differences per subject was 4.2/4.2 mmHg (systolic/diastolic). According to Table 1 of criterion 2 of the standard, for the obtained mean values of 1.23/0.84 mmHg (systolic/diastolic), the maximum allowable standard deviation had to be < 6.84 for PS and < 6.89 for PD. The Combiomed Hipermax-BF A7101 automatic sphygmomanometer meets the requirements of the AAMI/ESH/ISO Universal Standard (ISO 81060-2:2018) in the general population.
Clinical Characteristics and Hospital Outcomes of Gallbladder and Pancreatic Tuberculosis: Insights from the National Inpatient Sample Database
Authors: Albuni Mhd Kutaiba , Sawaf Bisher , Hijazi Mohamad , Aboursheid Tarek , Abbarh Shahem , Hajjar Adnan , Alzabibi Mhd Amin , Shibani Mosa , Daaboul Obada , Dousa Khalid M.
Published: February 2024

Hepatobiliary and pancreatic tuberculosis (TB) are rare forms of extrapulmonary TB, posing challenges for diagnosis and management. This study utilizes the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database to investigate the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with these conditions. We analyzed data from the NIS database (2016–2019) to identify patients with tuberculous pancreatitis and tuberculosis of the gallbladder. Categorical variables were summarized and compared using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Mean costs and standard deviations were calculated for financial assessment. The cohort consisted of 49 patients with diverse baseline characteristics and comorbidities. Medicare was the primary expected payer for most patients, and urban teaching hospitals were the common treatment setting. Hospital stays vary in length depending on factors such as primary payer, hospital teaching status, region, and bed size. Costs also varied and were highest in 2019. Medicaid had the highest mean cost among primary payers, while private insurance had the lowest. Urban teaching hospitals had higher mean costs compared to urban non-teaching hospitals. The West region had the highest mean cost, while the Northeast had the lowest. A larger hospital bed size was associated with higher costs. These findings contribute to understanding these rare manifestations of TB and can inform clinical decision-making and resource allocation.
A novel role of peroxiredoxin 2 in diabetic kidney disease progression by activating the classically activated macrophages
Authors: Li Xia , Long Hehua , Peng Rui , Zou Xue , Zuo Siyang , Yang Yuan , Chen Min , Yuan Huixiong , Liu Zeying , Wang Teng , Zhao Qingqing , Guo Bing , Liu Lirong
Published: February 2024

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is the main cause of death due to diabetes mellitus (DM). Due to the complexity of the onset, it is difficult to achieve accurate prevention and treatment. The classically activated macrophages (M1) polarization is a crucial proinflammatory mechanism in DKD, while the interaction and cascade effects of oxidative stress and inflammatory response remain to be elucidated. A urine proteomic analysis of DM patients indicated that peroxiredoxin 2 (PRDX2) had the higher abundance in DKD. We recently found that PRDX of parasitic protozoa Entamoeba histolytica, which was similar to human PRDX2 in amino acid sequence and spatial structure, could activate the inflammatory response of macrophages through toll like receptor 4 (TLR4). Hence, our study was designed to explore the role of PRDX2 in chronic inflammation during DKD. Combined with in vivo and in vitro experiments, results showed that the PRDX2 was positively correlated with DKD progression and upregulated by high glucose or recombinant tumor necrosis factor-α in renal tubular epithelial cells; Besides, recombinant PRDX2 could promote macrophages M1 polarization, enhance the migration and phagocytic ability of macrophages through TLR4. In summary, our study has explored the novel role of PRDX2 in DKD to provide basis for further researches on the diagnosis and treatment of DKD.
Optimized PV-based induction motor drive for electric vehicle system with bidirectional converter: modeling and analysis
Authors: Anand Vinay , Sharma Himanshu , Yadav Arvind , Arora Krishan , Joshi Gyanendra Prasad , Cho Woong
Published: February 2024

An electric vehicle (EV) system is a transportation solution that relies on electric propulsion rather than traditional internal combustion engines. Induction motors are well-suited for EVs, offering high torque at low speeds, ideal for city driving. To enhance the sustainability of the EV system, photovoltaic (PV) panels are integrated to directly power the induction motor using renewable solar energy. The PV panels' optimal sizing and placement are achieved through the modified sandpiper optimization (MSO) algorithm, maximizing their efficiency. Additionally, an improved competitive swarm optimization (ICSO) algorithm is employed to optimize power interfaces in the PV-powered EV system, addressing issues with traditional maximum power point tracking (MPPT) techniques. To facilitate bidirectional power flow and mitigate voltage unbalance, a bidirectional DC-DC converter is implemented. Through extensive simulation scenarios, the proposed induction motor-driven EV system is thoroughly validated and compared to state-of-the-art EV systems utilizing brushless DC (BLDC) motors. The comparative analysis assesses system efficiency, power output, torque characteristics, and overall performance, providing valuable insights into the suitability and advantages of using induction motors in EV systems. This research contributes to advancing sustainable and efficient EV technologies, offering a greener mode of transportation for a more environmentally friendly future.
Clinical outcomes of Human papillomavirus associated (HPVA) and non HPVA cervical adenocarcinoma: a minimum 3-year follow-up analysis
Authors: Wang Lufang , Tang Guiju , Chen Tianyi , Gao Yumei , Min Jie
Published: February 2024

Objective
The International Standard and Classification of Cervical Adenocarcinoma (IECC) classifies cervical adenocarcinoma into HPV related (HPVA) and non HPVA (NHPVA) types based on morphology. However, the differences and prognostic factors between the two types of cervical adenocarcinoma are still unclear. This study aims to evaluate the clinical pathological characteristics and prognostic factors of two groups at least 3 years of follow-up.
Methods
We included 147 patients diagnosed with cervical adenocarcinoma between 2012 and 2020. Using Wilcoxon rank sum test, χ² test or Fisher's exact test to compare clinical case characteristics between HPVA group and NHPVA group. Using Kaplan Meier and Cox regression to analysis the survival differences and prognostic factors between HPVA and NHPVA.
Results
The average age and lesion size of the NHPVA groups was older and larger than HPVA group (P = 0.0111, 0.038, respectively). Compared with the HPVA group, NHPVA has a later stage and is more prone to LVI, LNM and distant metastasis (P = 0.001,0.022,0.001 and 0.016 respectively). Compared with HPVA, NHPVA had poorer overall survival (OS) and progression free survival (PFS) (p < 0.001, p < 0001, respectively). Surgery can improve overall survival compared to radiotherapy and chemotherapy in both the HPVA and NHPVA groups (P = 0.028, 0.017, respectively). FIGO 2018 stage is the only factor that affects prognosis both in HPVA and NHPVA (P = 0.041 and 0.039 respectively).
Conclusions
Compared with HPVA, NHPVA has a worse prognosis. Whether for HPVA or NHPVA, surgery is a protective factor and the FIGO 2018 stage is the main factor affecting prognosis.
Comparison of percutaneous microwave/radiofrequency ablation liver partition and portal vein embolization versus transarterial chemoembolization and portal vein embolization for planned hepatectomy with insufficient future liver remnant
Authors: Ye Tai-Wei , Fu Tian-Wei , Du Cheng-Fei , Yue Ru-Chi , Jiang Qi-Tao , Zhong Zhi-Hang , Zhao Qin , Zhang Cheng-Wu , Liu Jie , Liu Jun-Wei , Luo Zu-Yan , Fan Xiao-Ming , Hong De-Fei , Cheng Jian , Xiao Zun-Qiang
Published: February 2024

Background
In China, both percutaneous microwave/radiofrequency ablation liver partition plus portal vein embolization (PALPP) and transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) plus portal vein embolization (PVE) have been utilized in planned hepatectomy. However, there is a lack of comparative studies on the effectiveness of these two techniques for cases with insufficient future liver remnant (FLR).
Methods
Patients were categorized into either the PALPP group or the TACE + PVE group. Clinical data, including FLR growth rate, complications, secondary resection rate, and overall survival rate, were compared and analyzed for both groups.
Results
Between December 2014 and October 2021, a total of 29 patients underwent TACE + PVE (n = 12) and PALPP (n = 17). In the TACE + PVE group, 7 patients successfully underwent two-stage hepatectomy, while in the PALPP group, 13 patients underwent the procedure (two-stage resection rate: 58.3% vs. 76.5%, P = 0.42). There were no significant differences in postoperative complications of one-stage procedures (17.6% vs. 8.3%, P = 0.62) and overall survival (14.0 months vs. 20.1 months, P = 0.85) between the TACE + PVE and PALPP groups. However, the PALPP group demonstrated a shorter time to FLR volume growth for second-stage resection (18.5 days vs. 66 days, P = 0.001) and a higher weekly rate of FLR volume growth (58.5 ml/week vs. 7.7 ml/week, P = 0.001).
Conclusions
Compared with TACE + PVE, PALPP results in a more significant increase in FLR volume and a higher rate of two-stage resection without increasing postoperative complications.
Construction and validation of a nomogram to predict mortality risk in HIV/AIDS patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis
Authors: Xian Zhu-rui , Song Xiao-fei , Wang Yong-fu , Yang Ting-ting , Mao Nan
Published: February 2024

Objective: This study was aimed to explore the death risk factors in HIV/AIDS patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis, and constructed a mortality prediction risk model.
Methods: In this study, we retrospectively collected clinical data of HIV/AIDS patients who received hemodialysis in Chengdu Public Health Clinical Medical Center between June 6,2017 and June 6,2023, and were divided into survival group and mortality group on the basis of the follow-up result. Besides, we separated all patients into training set, which was used for model construction, and validation set for model verification according to 8:2 ratio. The t-test, non-parametric test, chi-square test, fisher’s precise test and ROC analysis were used for variable selection, and the logistic regression analysis was used for exploring the relationship between variables and death. And then, we used the stepwise logistic regression to construct a mortality risk prediction model in HIV/AIDS patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis, and next, we used R software to visualize the prediction model which called a nomogram. And last, ROC analysis, calibration curve and decision curve were used for model evaluation, and meanwhile, we used a independent internal validation set for model verification.
Result: In this study, we collected clinical data of 166 HIV/AIDS patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis, including 123 patients in the training set(55 mortalities and 68 survivals)and 43 patients in the validation set(20mortalities and 23survivals). Stepwise Logistic regression showed that education level [OR(95%CI): 3.754 (1.247-11.300), p=0.019], dialysis age after diagnosis of HIV/AIDS [OR(95%CI):0.050 (0.013-0.187),p=0.000], creatine kinase isoenzyme (CK-MB)[OR(95%CI): 7.666 (2.237-26.271),p=0.001],neutrophil and lymphocyte counts ratio (NLR)[OR(95%CI):3.864 (1.266-11.795),p=0.018], magnesium (Mg2+)[OR(95%CI): 4.883 (1.479-16.118),p=0.009],HIV-RNA[OR(95%CI): 17.616 (3.797-81.721),p=0.000] were independent risk factors of HIV/AIDS patients undergoing hemodialysis, and afterwards, we constructed a nomogram based on the 6 independent risk factors. The AUC of the prediction model in ROC analysis was0.921 (95%CI 0.883~0.968), indicating that this nomogram had a good efficacy in predicting mortality. In addition, the calibration curve and decision curve both showed that the nomogram had good clinical application. Futhermore, there was a same result in the validation set.
Conclusion: In present study, the nomogram model had a good performance in predicting the mortality of HIV/AIDS patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis, which is worth promoting in clinical practice.
Prepregnancy and prenatal risk factors for the neurodevelopmental delay of offspring: Machine learning analysis using national health insurance claims data
Authors: Yang Seung-Woo , Lee Kwang-Sig , Heo Ju Sun , Choi Eun-Saem , Kim Kyumin , Ahn Ki Hoon
Published: February 2024

Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD) in offspring are associated with a complex combination of pre-and postnatal factors. This study uses machine learning and population data to evaluate the association between prepregnancy or prenatal predictors and the NDD of offspring for as more reflective of the real world. Population-based retrospective cohort data were obtained from Korea National Health Insurance Service claims data for 209,424 singleton offspring and their mothers who gave birth for the first time in 2007. The dependent variables were motor development disorder (MDD), cognitive development disorder (CDD) and combined overall neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) from offspring. Seventeen independent variables from 2002–2007 were included. Random forest variable importance and Shapley Additive Explanation (SHAP) values were calculated to analyze the directions of its associations with the predictors. The random forest with oversampling registered much higher areas under the receiver-operating-characteristic curves than the logistic regression, 72% vs. 50% (MDD), 76% vs. 51% (CDD) and 68% vs. 50% (NDD). Based on random forest variable importance, low socioeconomic status and age at birth were highly ranked. In SHAP values, there was a positive association between NDD and pre- or perinatal outcomes, especially, fetal male sex with growth restriction associated the development of NDD in offspring.
Formulation and Evaluation of Phyllanthus Wightianus-Based Active Packaging Film for Meat Preservation
Authors: Xie Kangkang , Ahsan Samreen , Tariq Amna , Farooq Muhammad Adil , Mehmood Tariq , Liaqat Atif , Chughtai Muhammad Farhan Jahangir , Khaliq Adnan , Tanweer Saira , Zheng Shengle , Liu Huaxia
Published: February 2024

A biopolymer-based edible film was prepared using Phyllanthus wightianus to extend the shelf life of beef patties. For this purpose, the film was prepared by using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA, 5% W/V), carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC, 1% W/V), glycerol (0.1% V/V) as a plasticizer, flaxseed gel and P. wightianus extract @ 0, 1, 2 and 3% in various treatments. The film was analyzed at the interval of 0, 10, 20, and 30th days at 25°C for thickness, the film's opacity, degree of solubility and swelling, water vapor permeability, and Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli antibacterial activity. After a month of storage study, the developed film was used to coat beef patties and analyzed for antioxidants, pH, peroxidation, and moisture. A total plate count test was performed for antimicrobial analysis, and beef patties were further evaluated for sensory evaluation parameters. The results showed that film has substantial antimicrobial potential suitable for longer storage and helpful in delaying the spoilage of beef patties by controlling lipid peroxidation and microbial growth of meat spoilage bacteria, especially S. aureus and E. coli. In conclusion, the films developed with 3% P. wightianus extract and flaxseed gel prolong the shelf life of beef patties throughout storage.