bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anaesthetic Challenge in an Infant with Achondroplasia who Developed Tetraparesis after Whiplash Injury: A case report
Authors: Nedomová Barbora , Tichá Ľubica , Zahradníková Petra , Jakešová Salome , Hanko Martin , Chrenko Robert
Published: March 2024

Background: This report presents the case of an infant with dwarfism due to achondroplasia who experienced acute tetraparesis after a cervical whiplash injury. We describe the considerations in the anaesthetic management of this patient, including the potential risks associated with this rare disease.
Case presentation: A 1-year-old boy with achondroplasia presented with acute tetraparesis after a whiplash injury. The initial craniocervical computed tomography showed a small posterior fossa, narrow foramen magnum, and ventriculomegaly without any fractures or dislocations.However, magnetic resonance imaging revealed foramen magnum stenosis, signal changesrepresenting myelopathy in the spinal cord extending from the craniocervical junction to the C2 level, oedema of the medulla oblongata, and traction injury of the posterior atlantoaxial ligament. Initial conservative therapy resulted in partial remission of tetraparesis. The patient underwent microsurgical decompression of the craniocervical junction under general anaesthesia, which was performed by a paediatric anaesthesiologist. For airway management, the spontaneously breathing patient underwent fibreoptic-guided nasal intubation under deep inhalation anaesthesia. Ultrasound navigation facilitated venous access. Surgery was performed with the patient in the prone position with careful monitoring. The patient showed complete remission of neurological symptoms at 3 months postoperatively.
Conclusions: Herein, we discuss the specifics of anaesthesia and its role in the optimal management of an infant with dwarfism due to achondroplasia and an injured upper cervical myelon and lower brain stem. The role of paediatric anaesthesiologists in the management of this rare condition has been highlighted.
DAEPK:Domain-Adaptive Text Feature Enhancement Technology Integrating Prior Knowledge Domain In Text Classification
Authors: Yang Jie , Nyima Tashi , Qi Jindong
Published: March 2024

The scarcity of resources, lack of labeled texts, and insufficient corpora pose significant challenges to many specialized classification problems. It increases the difficulty of small language and domain-specific classification problems. In this paper, we propose a new approach to address this problem: by assigning multi-dimensional additional weights to words using external knowledge, thereby enhancing text features in low-resource domains. This is achieved by introducing the concepts of 'prior domains' and 'Adjusted Term Frequency Vectors (Adjust-TFs). Then, we propose a Domain Adaptive Text Feature Enhancement Method that combines prior domains and utilizes knowledge transfer to solve the classification problem. We conducted experiments across various data sizes on multilingual text categorization datasets. Experimental results demonstrate that our method notably enhances classification accuracy across diverse sample conditions, particularly in low-resource scenarios. This method still performs well in the few-shot setting, which, to some extent, alleviates the training problem of DNNs under this condition. Furthermore, we identify conditions that lead to improved performance in low-resource settings, providing valuable insights for future research.
Assessment of the WRF model in reproducing a flash-flood heavy rainfall event over Kosovo
Authors: Osmanaj Lavdim , Spiridonov Irena , Jakimovski Boro , Spiridonov Vlado
Published: March 2024

This research investigates the efficacy of the cloud-resolving Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model in reproducing convective cells associated with flash-flooding heavy rainfall near Peja, Northeast Kosovo, on June 24, 2023. Employing two distinct dynamical cores and a unique numerical setup for the Kosovo domain, numerical experiments were conducted. The study employed a triply nested WRF-ARW model with a high resolution of 3 km horizontal grid spacing, integrating conventional analysis data. Additionally, experiments using the WRF-NMM core with 3 km for a larger domain covering Southeast Europe and Kosovo domain were executed to simulate the specific event. The WRF model accurately simulated the initiation of isolated thunderstorms, convective band formation, cloud cluster, and squall line at the opportune time. While precipitation distribution was reasonably replicated, there was a slight underestimation in the amount. Hydrological analysis of precipitation, including river discharge rates provided from ECMWF ERA5 reanalysis, identified a unique storm category with intense precipitation production, registering an intensity of approximately 54.6 mm in one hour, leading to sudden flash flooding.
Development of Optimal L-PBF Process Parameters using an Accelerated Discrete Element Simulation Framework
Authors: Aarab Marwan , Dorussen Bram J.A. , Poelsma Sandra S. , Remmers Joris J.C.
Published: March 2024

Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF) has immense potential for the production of complex, lightweight, and high-performance components. Optimizing process parameters both for existing and new materials is crucial for maximizing the capabilities of the technique. Traditionally process parameter optimization involves a large amount of experimentation, which makes it a costly and time-consuming endeavor. An elegant improvement upon this is leveraging numerical simulations to find optimal process parameters. Current research mostly focuses on modeling single-line scans, most likely to maintain computational efficiency. Unfortunately, optimization of process parameters using this single-line geometry will lead to process parameter sets optimized for thin walls rather than bulk material.
In this work, we present a novel approach to optimizing bulk process parameters. The approach utilizes a discrete element simulation, with a ray tracing-modelled laser heat source, which significantly reduces the cost and time consumption in contrast to conventional optimization methods. The simulation is sped up by using GPU acceleration, enabling efficient simulation of multiple fully scanned layers. This will result in process parameters optimized for the bulk material rather than thin walls.
The practical use of the optimization method is demonstrated in a case study where optimal process parameters are developed for AlSi10Mg. The optimization entails just 5 days of computation time, which would have been at least 8 months without the GPU acceleration. Through experimental validation, it was found that the numerically optimized process parameters were indeed the highest quality, with an optical density of 99.91%.
Investigation on Low-Iodine Diet Implementation of Medical Staffs before 131I Therapy for Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: YI Yupin , HU Fengqiong , ZHU Yuquan , WU Youfeng
Published: March 2024

Objective: To explore the implementation of low-iodine diets among medical staff caring for patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma prior to 131I therapy across 58 hospitals, and offer valuable insights for the development of guidelines on low-iodine diets.
Methods: Convenience sampling was utilized to conduct a survey among 163 medical staff members working in nuclear medicine departments across 58 tertiary hospitals using a self-designed questionnaire.
Results: Concerning the duration of the low-iodine diet prior to treatment, the medical staff's recommendations were as follows: 58.28% suggested 2–4 weeks, 31.29% recommended more than 4 weeks, 9.2% opted for 7–13 days, and 1.23% favored less than 1 week. Regarding the timing of resuming a normal diet, the respondents' recommendations ranged from immediately after treatment (1.84%) to 3 months post-treatment (8.58%), with intermediate recommendations of 2 hours (8.58%), 24–48 hours (14.11%), post-discharge (12.26%), and 1 month (42.94%).Furthermore, the surveyed medical staff unanimously recommended abstaining from seafood, with 90.8% also advising against the consumption of iodized salt, 91.41% recommending avoidance of iodine-containing medications, and 71.17% advising caution with moderately high-iodine foods. Notably, 75.46% of the medical staff evaluated patient compliance with the low-iodine diet. When patients failed to adhere to the diet preparation, 33.74% of healthcare workers chose to proceed with treatment. In terms of guidance sources, 96.93% of respondents relied on relevant guidelines, 66.26% referred to the literature, and 49.69% drew upon their clinical experience. During hospitalization, 58.28% of the medical staff continued to guide patients on the low-iodine diet, while only 8.59% provided such guidance after discharge. Notably, only 20.25% of the staff considered consulting the nutrition department.
Discussion: This study underscored substantial variations in the duration and selection criteria for low-iodine diets, which were linked to a scarcity of standardized evaluations. Consequently, there is an urgent need for further research to establish detailed, practical, accessible, comprehensive, and dependable implementation programs for low-iodine diets.
Eco-Friendly Synthesis of Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles from Banana Peel Waste: A Comprehensive Study on Sustainable Waste Utilization and Advanced Material Development
Authors: M MONICA , J Irine , R Jayasree
Published: March 2024

The growing challenge of solid waste in various industries underscores the need for sustainable environmental solutions. This study focused on converting banana peel waste, a byproduct from the global banana industry, into valuable mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) through an eco-friendly approach. Musaceae peels, which are rich in nutrients and are abundant in Tamil Nadu, India, are often overlooked. In response to the demand for sustainable waste management, this study explored the transformation of Musaceae peel ash into silica using the sol-gel method. The synthesis process involves preparing Musaceae peel ash, extracting silica with a sodium silicate solution, and subsequent gelation, drying, and purification steps to obtain amorphous silica powder. Characterization analyses, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, confirmed the successful synthesis of the mesoporous silica nanoparticles. EDX confirmed the elemental composition, FTIR revealed chemical groups on the nanoparticle surface, and SEM images showed a uniform particle morphology, indicating a well-crystallized nature and optimized adsorption capabilities. This eco-friendly approach not only addresses environmental challenges in waste disposal but also contributes to developing mesoporous silica nanoparticles from a biosource, with potential applications in various advanced fields. This study aimed to promote sustainable waste utilization and explore eco-conscious materials for diverse applications.
ZnO NPs Enhanced Photosynthetic Capacity, Promoted New Shoot Development, and Improved the Community Composition of Phyllosphere Epiphytic and Endophytic Microorganisms in Tea Plants
Authors: Chen Hao , Song Yujie , Wang Yu , Wang Huan , Ding Zhaotang , Fan Kai
Published: March 2024

Background
Nanotechnology holds revolutionary potential in the field of agriculture, with zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) demonstrating advantages in promoting crop growth. Photosynthesis is a key process in the growth and quality formation of tea plants, and phyllosphere microorganisms also have a significant impact on plant growth and health. However, the effects of ZnO NPs on the photosynthesis of tea plants, the sprouting of new shoots, and the community of phyllosphere microorganisms are not yet clear.
Results
This study investigated the photosynthetic physiological parameters of tea plants under the influence of ZnO NPs, the content of key photosynthetic enzymes such as RubisCO, chlorophyll content, chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, transcriptomes (leaves and new shoots), extensively targeted metabolomes (leaves and new shoots), mineral element content (leaves and new shoots), and the communities of epiphytic and endophytic microorganisms in the phyllosphere. The results indicated that ZnO NPs could enhance the photosynthesis of tea plants, upregulate the expression of some genes related to photosynthesis, increase the accumulation of photosynthetic products, promote the development of new shoots, and alter the content of various mineral elements in the leaves and new shoots of tea plants. Additionally, ZnO NPs improved the community composition of epiphytic and endophytic microorganisms in the phyllosphere of tea plants, inhibited potential pathogenic microorganisms, and allowed various beneficial microorganisms with potential growth-promoting properties to become dominant species.
Conclusion
This study demonstrates that ZnO NPs have a positive impact on the photosynthesis of tea plants, the sprouting of new shoots, and the community of phyllosphere microorganisms, which can improve the growth condition of tea plants. These findings provide new scientific evidence for the application of ZnO NPs in sustainable agricultural development and contribute to advancing research in nanobiotechnology aimed at enhancing crop yield and quality.
Effects of Three Exogenous Selenium on Rice Morphology, Photosynthesis, Antioxidant Enzyme System, and Identification of Selenium-Related Genes
Authors: Wu Wenjiang , Qi Deqiang , Chen Yalong , Wang Jiaqi , Zhao Wei , Niu Hongbin , Peng Ting , Zhao Quanzhi
Published: March 2024

Background: Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element that has various beneficial effects for human healthy. However, the effects of different selenium sources, treatment methods and concentrations on growth and development, photosynthetic characteristics and antioxidant capacity are still unclear in rice.
Results: In this study, three concentrations of three different selenium sources were performed in rice using two treatment methods, respectively. The results showed that selenium treatment can increase the plant height, the 1000 grain weight, the Se content of rice grain, and increased the organic selenium content of rice grain, especially. All the selenium treatments improved the photosynthetic indexes including net photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate, and stomatal conductance, decreased inter-cellular CO2 concentration. The activities of catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione reductase (GR), as well as the content of GSSG (Glutathione oxidized) were increased at different levels after Se treatments, while GSH (Glutathione) decreased. Totally, 32 DEGs related to selenium absorption/endocytosis (including six heat shock 70 kDa protein, one ACD), transport (including four ABC transporters, one SULTR, one LAST, one Inorganic phosphate transporter, one GlpT, one PHO, one PPT) and metabolism (including NAS1, NAS2, APS5, 3MST2, PPCS1, SAMDC and 8 protein kinases), 6 DEGs related to glutathione metabolic pathway (including one G6PD, four GSTs and one GSS), 69 transcription factors (including 19 AP2/ERF-ERFs, 9 MYBs, 9 WRKYs, 8 HSFs, 6 bHLHs, 5 GRASs, 4 NACs,3 B3-ARFs, 3 C2H2s and 3 bZIPs) were identified by RNA-Seq.
Conclusion: Our study indicated that exogenous selenium treatments could increase the 1000 grain weight, the Se content and the organic selenium content of rice grain by improving photosynthetic traits and antioxidant enzyme activities, especially sodium selenite. The expressions of the genes related to selenium metabolism indicated that foliar spraying can faster induce the response of Se treatment in rice than root irrigation. The results will provide an insight into the selenium enrichment of rice.
Protein-losing enteropathy as a new phenotype in atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome caused by CD46 gene mutation and recovery from chronic kidney failure by eculizumab treatment
Authors: Wang Chunyan , Chen Jing , Han Xinli , Sun Manqing , Fang Xiaoyan , Zhai Yihui , Miao Qianfan , Zhang Zhiqing , Tang Xiaoshan , Liu Jiaojiao , Dai Rufeng , Shen Qian , Xu Hong
Published: March 2024

Background: Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is a life-threatening thrombotic microangiopathies. Genetic defects in complement alternative pathway have been identified in 60-70% of aHUS individuals. Eculizumab is recommended as first-line therapy.
Methods: We collected clinical data of a pediatric aHUS case, who accompanied with protein-losing enteropathy (PLE). Genetic testing was performed. Related literatures of aHUS combined with PLE were reviewed.
Results: A 15-year-old Chinese girl was diagnosed with aHUS at 3.7-year- old, and suffered with five episodes, she showed completely resolved with plasma treatment. Severe gastrointestinal symptoms and hypoalbuminemia presented after first episode and protein-losing enteropathy (PLE) was diagnosed. A novel homozygous CD46 variant was identified and FACS showed significantly decreased CD46 expression. She presented a recent relapse with persistent GI symptoms and headache, and progressed to chronic kidney failure, peritoneal dialysis was initiated. Eculizumab was given after 8 months of last recurrence. Surprisingly, PLE was cured, Afterwards, dialysis could be discontinued, eGFR recovered to 44.8ml/min/1.73㎡.
Review of literatures indicated PLE with thrombosis was caused by CD55 variants with a mechanism of hyperactivation of complement system. We firstly reported an aHUS case with PLE caused by CD46 variants, both symptoms of PLE and aHUS improved significantly in our case and cases reported with CD55 variants treated with eculizumab, which indicates PLE as a new symptom of aHUS in our case with CD46 variants.
Conclusions: Our case expands phenotype of aHUS caused by CD46 mutation, and provide evidence of efficiency of eculizumab after a long chronic kidney failure phase.
Effect of MnSO4 concentration on the electrochemical performance of β-MnO2/3D graphene-carbon nanotube hybrids cathode for aqueous zinc-ion batteries
Authors: Jin Duolong , Dong Xiaoping , Xin Shenghai , Yang Liying , Liu Jiankai , Pang Qianran
Published: March 2024

Manganese-based cathode material has a wide range of applications in aqueous zinc-ion batteries, but its structural stability is poor. We can improve the microstructure of manganese-based cathode materials by simple mechanical ball milling methods, thus increasing the discharge capacity of batteries. However, the capacity of manganese-based cathode material batteries decreases rapidly during cycling, which is caused by the dissolution of manganese-based materials in the electrolyte. To ameliorate this problem, in this work, MnSO4 is pre-added to the ZnSO4 electrolyte, which can effectively inhibit the dissolution of the manganese-based material and maintain the conversion reaction inside the battery, providing better cycle life and higher discharge capacity. In addition, with the increase of MnSO4 additive concentration in a certain range, the discharge capacity and cycle life of the batteries were improved (the battery pre-added with 0.5 M MnSO4 solution had the highest reversible specific capacity of up to 521.91 mAh·g-1 at a current density of 100 mA·g-1 and 109.12 mAh·g-1 even at 1 A·g-1, the capacity retention rate remained at 83.8% after cycling for more than 8000 cycles), which provides an idea for the electrolyte regulation of aqueous zinc-ion batteries.
Global Dissipative Examination of Delayed Memristive Inertial Neural Networks with Uncertain Parameters
Authors: S Premalatha , M Shanmugapriya M , P Indumathi , S Santhosh Kumar
Published: March 2024

The present article addresses the discussion of dissipative examination of Dynamic Systems, namely Inertial Neural Networks with memristor, parameter uncertainity and delays such as time-varying, distributed. A suitable variable substitution is implemented to convert the inertial system to the first order differential system. Exploiting the concept of matrix measure and properties to the Lyapunov function, a sufficient criteria for dissipative of the dynamical system is achieved through a generalized Halanay Inequality. Concurrently, the globally attractive sets are extracted from the network system with bound. The derived results are new-fangled concerning the dynamical systems with the complex- the inertial and memristor term along with the mixed delays and parameter uncertainties. At the end, the numerical simulations are presented for the better clarification and testimonial of obtained dissipative criteria with pictorial representation.
BERT-BiLSTM-Attention model for sentiment analysis on Chinese stock reviews
Authors: Li Xiaoyan , Chen Lei , Chen Baoguo , Ge Xianlei
Published: March 2024

COVID-19 has produced significant fluctuations and impacts on the Chinese stock market, and the sentiment analysis of stock reviews is important for the study of economic recovery. Due to the lack of a large amount of labeled data in the existing Chinese stock review data, and the currently popular Bert model mostly failed to consider contextual information according to different contextual backgrounds when extracting features, resulting in the lack of contextual information in the modeled features. To address the above problems, this paper proposes an innovative Chinese stock review sentiment analysis model BERT-BiLSTM-Attention, which encodes the stock review text by BERT to enhance the semantic feature representation of the text, BiLSTM is then utilized to enhance the contextual information of the overall context of the review as well as the model’s comprehension of the text sequences, and then Attention mechanism is utilized to obtain important textual information and get the most effective information quickly. Experiments show that the model is effective in sentiment analysis of Chinese stock reviews, with an accuracy of 93.98%, It can be proved that the proposed model well enhances the performance of stock review text classification, and has a strong generalization ability, which can be used for sentiment analysis in many fields.
Stable Training of Normalizing Flows for High-dimensional Variational Inference
Authors: Andrade Daniel
Published: March 2024

Variational inference with normalizing flows (NFs) is an increasingly popular alternative to MCMC methods. In particular, NFs based on coupling layers (Real NVPs) are frequently used due to their good empirical performance. In theory, increasing the depth of normalizing flows should lead to more accurate posterior approximations. However, in practice, training deep normalizing flows for approximating high-dimensional posterior distributions is often infeasible due to the high variance of the stochastic gradients. In this work, we show that previous methods for stabilizing the variance of stochastic gradient descent can be insufficient to achieve stable training of Real NVPs. As the source of the problem, we identify that, during training, samples often exhibit unusual high values. As a remedy, we propose a combination of two methods: (1) soft-thresholding of the scale in Real NVPs, and (2) a bijective soft log transformation of the samples. We evaluate these and other previously proposed modification on several challenging target distributions, including a high-dimensional horseshoe logistic regression model. Our experiments show that with our modifications, stable training of Real NVPs for posteriors with several thousand dimensions is possible, allowing for more accurate marginal likelihood estimation via importance sampling. Moreover, we evaluate several common training techniques and architecture choices and provide practical advise for training NFs for high-dimensional variational inference.
Can Relative Abundance of Diatoms (RAD) Serve as an Indicator for the Water Quality Assessment in River-Connected Lakes? A Case Study at Dongting Lake
Authors: Yan Guanghan , Yin Xueyan , Wang Xing , Huang Mingsheng
Published: March 2024

Abstrat: In this study, 15 sampling sites were set up in Dongting Lake, a typical river-connected lake in China, to investigate water quality and phytoplankton in March, June, September and December from year 2017 to 2022. Seven diatom indices, including relative abundance of diatoms (RAD), percentage motile diatoms (PMD), generic diatom index (GDI), diatom quotient (DU), pollution tolerance index for diatoms (PTI), trophic diatom index (TDI), and Pampean diatom index (IDP), were selected to screen the adaptability of water quality assessment comparing with the Nemero index (NI). The monitoring results from 2017 to 2019 showed that the diatom density in Dongting Lake ranged from 0.7×104 to 85.5×104 ind./L, with a certain decreasing trend. The spatial and temporal changes of major water quality factors were obvious, and the ∑TLI ranged from 45.99 to 50.72, with an average value of 47.85, indicating that the overall condition of Dongting Lake was medium nutrition. Correlation analysis showed that PTI, Rad and PMD could represent the information of DU, GDI, TDI and IDP, and were significantly positively correlated with DO (p<0.01), while significantly negatively correlated with Cond, CODMn, BOD5, CODCr and ∑TLI (p<0.001). The index verification results from year 2020 to 2022 showed that PTI, RAD and PMD were all significantly positively correlated with P (p<0.001). Taking into account the data integrity of the index calculation (PMD would appear the phenomenon of zero value) and the difficulty degree (PTI index needs to calculate the tolerance value of diatoms to external stress), RAD was finally selected as the biological indicator for evaluating the water quality of Dongting Lake. The results of this study provide a new path or alternative method for water quality assessment of the river-connected lakes.
Changing food choices: the option for high-protein foods and the move away from the Mediterranean diet
Authors: Vaccaro Concetta M , Guarino Giulia , Danza Francesco , Fraulino Alessia , Bracale Renata
Published: March 2024

The growing importance placed on health and physical well-being by consumers continues to drive the choices of the food industry in favor of offering new products that pander to proclivities toward foods deemed more healthy and able to impact the most coveted body image, that of the lean and athletic body. It is evidenced, thus, a change in food choices and habits, with more attention to the quality and nutrient content of the products consumed, in which protein is assuming increasing importance.
Purpose: The purpose of the study is to highlight important changes in eating habits and in particular the increase in the consumption of high-protein foods, attributable to the focus on physical fitness and thinness, resulting in a decreasing adherence to the Mediterranean diet and the progressive loss of its positive impact on health.
Methods and Results: This analysis is based on CIRCANA srl data on food consumption trends (change percentage of quantity and value sales) in recent years. Specifically, between January and September 2022 vs. 2021, there was a 21.6% increase in the sale of high-protein products, significantly higher than all the previous ones.
Conclusion: The past few years have seen the gradual discovery of new products, at first little-known and niche, which are becoming major players on the national food consumption scene. The trend is toward an growing preference for highprotein foods and diets with the gradual abandonment of the Mediterranean and an increased risk of nutritional deficiencies, obesity, and cardiovascular disease.
Level of evidence: Level IV, evidence obtained from multiple time series with or without the intervention
GAPS II: Development and Pilot Results of the Global Assessment in Pediatric Surgery, an Evidence-Based Pediatric Surgical Capacity Assessment Tool for Low-Resource Settings
Authors: Yousef Yasmine , Cairo Sarah , St-Louis Etienne , Goodman Laura F. , Hamad Doulia M. , Baird Robert , Smith Emily R. , Emil Sherif , Laberge Jean-Martin , Abdelmalak Mohamed , Gathuy Zipporah , Evans Faye , Adel Maryam Ghavami , Bertille Ki K. , Chitnis Milind , Millano Leecarlo , Nthumba Peter , d'Agostino Sergio , Cigliano Bruno , Zea-Salazar Luis , Ameh Emmanuel , Ozgediz Doruk , Guadagno Elena , Poenaru Dan
Published: March 2024

PURPOSE:
Pediatric surgical care in low- and middle-income countries is often hindered by systemic gaps in healthcare resources, infrastructure, training, and organisation. This study aims to develop and validate the Global Assessment of Pediatric Surgery (GAPS) to appraise pediatric surgical capacity and discriminate between levels of care across diverse healthcare settings.
METHODS:
The GAPS Version 1 was constructed through a synthesis of existing assessment tools and expert panel consultation. The resultant GAPS Version 2 underwent international pilot testing. Construct validation categorized institutions into providing Basic or Advanced Surgical Care. GAPS was further refined to Version 3 to include only questions with a > 75% response rate and those that significantly discriminated between Basic or Advanced Surgical settings.
RESULTS:
GAPS Version 1 included 139 items, which, after expert panel feedback, was expanded to 168 items in Version 2. Pilot testing, in 65 institutions yielded a high response rate. Of the 168 questions in GAPS Version 2, 64 significantly discriminated between Basic and Advanced Surgical Care. The refined GAPS Version 3 tool comprises 64 questions: Human Resources (9), Material Resources (39), Outcomes (3), Accessibility (3), and Education (10).
CONCLUSION:
The GAPS Version 3 tool presents a validated instrument for evaluating pediatric surgical capabilities in low-resource settings.
Research status of the Mendeleev Periodic Table: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Sharma Kamna , Das Deepak Kumar , Ray Saibal
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we present a bibliometric analysis of the Mendeleev Periodic Table. We have conducted a comprehensive analysis of Scopus based database using the keyword “Mendeleev Periodic Table”. Our findings suggest that the Mendeleev Periodic Table is an influential topic in the field of Inorganic as well as Organic Chemistry. Future researcher may focus on expanding our analysis to include other bibliometric indicators to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the impact of the Mendeleev Periodic Table in the chemistry-based scientific investigations and even in the field of astrochemistry.
Genipa americana lectin (GaBL) induces inhibition of growth, migration, invasion, and regulation of the expression of caspase-mediated apoptosis and proteins related to the development of cancer in human head and neck cells
Authors: Costa Ricardo Bezerra , Silva Monizy da Costa , Gomes Emisael Stênio Batista , Rocha Rogério Gonçalves , de Queiroz Stella Freitas , Santos Marta Angelo dos , Duarte Ana Kelly da Silva Fernandes , Guimarães André Luiz Sena , Pereira Hugo Juarez Vieira , Fraga Carlos Alberto de Carvalho , Gomes Francis Soares
Published: March 2024

The antitumor activity of Genipa americana bark lectin (GaBL) was evaluated for the first time against cell lines of human skin cancer (A431), melanoma (B16), and squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue (SCC9). Cancer cell lines were treated with 10 µg/ml of GaBL to assess cell viability, cell migration and invasion, as well as the identification of cell membrane alterations associated with apoptosis. Real-time polymerase chain reaction for caspase-3 was performed to verify if apoptosis is activated by lectin treatment. The mRNA expression of proteins (E-cadherin, type I collagen) related to the epithelial-mesenchymal transition was also analyzed. GaBL decreased (27.5–50%) cell proliferation and reduced cell migration in all strains evaluated. Additionally, the lectin decreased the invasion of SCC9 cells. Apoptosis was higher against B16 and SCC9 cells treated with the lectin. GaBL induced the upregulation of caspase-3, E-cadherin and suppression of type I collagen in all strains tested, indicating lower cancer development. GaBL induces inhibition of growth, migration, invasion, and regulation of the expression of caspase-mediated apoptosis and proteins related to the development of cancer in human head and neck cells.
Use of a new vertical traction device for early traction-assisted staged closure of congenital abdominal wall defects: a prospective series of 16 patients
Authors: Ziegler Anna-Maria , Svoboda Daniel , Lüken-Darius Britta , Heydweiller Andreas , Falk Sophie Christine , Kahl Fritz , Rolle Udo , Theilen Till-Martin
Published: March 2024

Purpose Abdominal wall closure in patients with giant omphalocele (GOC) and complicated gastroschisis (GS) remains to be a surgical challenge. To facilitate an early complete abdominal wall closure, we investigated the combination of a staged closure technique with continuous traction to the abdominal wall using a newly designed vertical traction device for newborns (fasciotens®Pediatric).
Methods Four tertiary pediatric surgery departments participated in the study between 04/2022- 11/2023. In case primary organ reduction and abdominal wall closure were not amenable, patients underwent a traction-assisted abdominal wall closure applying fasciotens®Pediatric. Outcome parameters were time to closure, surgical complications, infections, and hernia formation.
Results Ten patients with GOC and 6 patients with GS were included. Complete fascial closure was achieved after a median time of 7 days (range 4-22) in GOC and 5 days (range 4-11) in GS. There were two cases of tear-outs of traction sutures and one skin suture line dehiscence after fascial closure. No surgical site infection or signs of abdominal compartment syndrome were seen. No ventral or umbilical hernia occurred after a median follow-up of 12 months (range 4-22).
Conclusion Traction-assisted staged closure using fasciotens®Pediatric enabled an early tension-less fascial closure in GOC and GS in the newborn period.
Research on protein and peptides in scorpion based on transcriptomics- proteomics-peptidomics integrated association analysis strategy
Authors: Gao Fan , Li Hong-jing , Zhao Xin-meng , Shi Ci-ci , Liu Xing-chao , Guo Qiu-hong , Jiang Jian-ming
Published: March 2024

Background: To preliminarily elucidate the possible molecular basis of scorpion efficacy through the methods of transcriptomic-proteomic-peptidomics.
Methods: The transcriptome data of scorpion were obtained by high-throughput sequencing and analyzed by bioinformatics to establish the protein prediction database of scorpion. Furthermore, the proteomics and peptidomics of scorpion were analyzed by LC-MS analysis, and the GO annotation and KEGG pathway function enrichment analysis were performed for the identified proteins to explore the material basis of the efficacy of scorpion.
Results: A total of 17605 gene sequences were obtained by transcriptome sequencing, and 12368 proteins could be predicted. 278 transcription factors and 51 family information of transcription factors were obtained through database comparison. From GO and KEGG annotation results, it was found that scorpion had functions such as regulating cell cycle, amino acid metabolism and signal transduction, which may be closely related to the analgesic and anti-cancer functions of scorpion. In the process of proteome identification, 10,072 peptides were found, and 1917 protein components were deduced from these peptides. For the identification of peptides, 6758 peptides were matched in the transcriptome database and 33,834 peptides were identified by de novo sequencing. The results showed that the scorpion proteins were mainly enriched in protein translation, tricarboxylic acid cycle and glycolysis, and the KEGG pathway was mainly enriched in oxidative phosphorylation, amino acid metabolism and ribosome.
Conclusions: A total of 33834 peptides and 1917 proteins were identified from scorpion by integrated transcriptomic-proteomics-peptidomics association analysis. GO annotation and KEGG pathway functional enrichment analysis showed that the macromolecular components of scorpion were mainly related to oxidative phosphorylation, amino acid metabolism and immune regulation.
Impact of hyperbolic-cut twisted tape on heat transfer, friction factor and thermohydraulic performance of heat exchanger tube: An experimental study using Internet of things (IoT) approach
Authors: Rajan Abhijit
Published: March 2024

In this experimental investigation, our primary objective was to assess the collective impact of hyperbolic-cut depth and width cuts on twisted tape (TT) inserts within a heat exchanger tube (HET) operating under laminar flow conditions encompassing a Reynolds number (Re) range of (100 ≤ Re ≤ 1500). The insert utilized featured hyperbolic cuts along its edges of tape. The hyperbolic-cut depth and cut width were varied between (3 mm ≤ b ≤ 12 mm) and (10 mm ≤ c ≤ 16 mm) for a constant twist ratio. To minimize inaccuracies and enhance automation, we implemented the Internet of Things (IoT) methodology to monitor supplementary input and output variables and measure flow rates. This method produced more dependable outcomes by reducing the need for human involvement. The results of the current investigation suggest that specific alterations to the TT configuration resulted in a noteworthy enhancement in heat transfer efficiency, friction factor, and overall thermohydraulic performance metrics. The enhancements were notable, showcasing a rise in the Nusselt number varying from 43.42% to 529.50 % and elevation in the friction factor spanning 136.74 to 738.40 %, respectively, when compared to the plain tube. At Re = 1500, c = 16 mm yields the best performance of 4.43. Moreover, an exhaustive examination uncovered outstanding performance across all Re compared to prior research. In addition, empirical correlations have been established for predicting the Nusselt number and friction factor. Furthermore, research efforts were dedicated to investigating the flow and thermal behaviors through experimental work to enhance our comprehension of heat transfer mechanisms.
A literature review of interventions for the prevention of empathic distress and burnout in medical trainees
Authors: Rahman Afra , Jennings Rebecca , Wu Matthew , Hake Austin , Mazza Christina , Goradia Eshani , Mehta Krisha , Post Stephen
Published: March 2024

Empathic distress in medical trainees may evolve into burnout in the workplace. Medical trainees are particularly susceptible. To assist in the development and implementation of effective programs to combat empathic distress, a literature review of the various available interventions aimed at increasing compassion was conducted. An investigation into whether the mindfulness component offered any benefit to the medical trainee was also performed. Twenty relevant studies were identified and analyzed. The results indicated that interventions with a mindfulness-component were effective at improving trainee well-being and compassion, and may have an impact on burnout.
Design and testing of Hybrid Airbreathing Ion Propulsion
Authors: Saiyed Mustakim , Shah Niyati
Published: March 2024

The aim of this project is to develop an innovative propulsion system that combines the principles of air-breathing engine and ion propulsion to reduce the orbit of satellites to a range of 150 to 200 kilometers above the Earth's surface. The propulsion system uses two technologies, namely the ion thruster and jet engine, to create a hybrid ion propulsion system. The research involves the design and development of a three-stage ion grid system and a fuel system to achieve an exhaust velocity of 7+ meters per second. The results of the project demonstrate that the proposed hybrid airbreathing ion propulsion system can be used as propulsion system in satellites at very low Earth orbit, which is particularly useful for applications such as weather forecasting, military surveillance, and high-speed communication and for aircraft & missile propulsion system etc. In comparison to conventional propulsion systems, the hybrid airbreathing ion propulsion system offers several advantages such as higher fuel efficiency, lower operating costs and reduced environmental impact. These benefits make the hybrid airbreathing ion propulsion system a promising technology for future space missions, including satellite deployment in very low Earth orbit and for aircraft & missile propulsion system.
Unravelling the Referendum: An analysis of the 2023 Australian Voice to Parliament Referendum outcomes across capital cities
Authors: Baum Scott , Mitchell William
Published: March 2024

The 2023 Australian Voice to Parliament Referendum presented a pivotal moment in the nation's democratic landscape, aiming to enshrine indigenous voices in the constitutional fabric through the establishment of an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice. Despite widespread support for indigenous well-being, the referendum did not secure the necessary approval, prompting extensive analysis of its outcome. This paper employs an ecological approach to scrutinize the referendum's dynamics, exploring six hypotheses derived from public discourse. Findings reveal multifaceted influences on voting behavior. Economic concerns, exemplified by the cost-of-living crisis, seemingly diverted attention from constitutional reform, potentially swaying votes towards maintaining the status quo. Conversely, culturally diverse communities demonstrated heightened empathy towards indigenous issues, aligning with the yes vote. Lower levels of education correlated with support for the no vote, highlighting the impact of political knowledge on decision-making. Moreover, religious conservatism and political partisanship emerged as influential factors, with Christian values and party affiliations shaping voting patterns. These findings underscore the complexity of referendum dynamics, emphasizing the importance of effective messaging and understanding diverse socio-political contexts in shaping public opinion. The defeat of the referendum marks a setback in indigenous relations, prompting critical reflection on messaging strategies and the broader socio-political landscape. This analysis provides a foundational empirical framework for understanding the referendum outcome, offering insights crucial for informed discourse and future democratic endeavours.
Prevalence of undernutrition among children with cerebral palsy aged 6-59 months in rehabilitation centers in Kampala, Uganda
Authors: Nanfuka Mary Immaculate , Dektar Benbella , Mangen Fred Wabwire , Onyait Emmanuel Ejuu , Nakazibwe Susan Kalule , Mukiza Nelson
Published: March 2024

Background: In Uganda, a critical health concern emerges with Cerebral Palsy (CP), affecting approximately 2.7 per 1000 children. Notably, anecdotal evidence from rehabilitation centers suggests a strong correlation between CP and the heightened risk of undernutrition and its subsequent complications in children below five years. However, the extent of undernutrition prevalence and the factors contributing to this condition among CP-afflicted children in Uganda’s rehabilitation centers remain largely unexplored.
This study aimed to ascertain the prevalence of undernutrition and identify its associated factors in a cohort of Ugandan children aged 6-59 months diagnosed with CP and residing in selected rehabilitation centers (RCs).
Methods: In accordance with the WHO Growth Chart (2006) as a benchmark, the study delineated undernutrition as a dependent variable using indicators such as height-for-age, weight-for-height, and weight-for-age with a standard deviation score of ≤ 2.0. This was accomplished through meticulous physical examinations and anthropometric measurements of 168 children. A modified Poisson regression model was utilized to pinpoint the determinants of undernutrition (independent variables), yielding prevalence ratios as a measure of association within 95% confidence intervals, complemented by multivariable logistic regression. Data analysis was conducted using STATA v.12, duly considering the survey design effects, including sampling weight.
Results: The results revealed that a majority (53.6%) of the children were aged between 12 and 35 months, with a predominance of male participants (64.3%). Caregivers, primarily female (91%), frequently exhibited financial constraints (56% had no income) and limited educational background (36% lacked formal education or had only primary school education). Alarmingly, the prevalence of undernutrition among children with CP stood at 61.2%, with stunting and underweight being the most common manifestations at 39.9% and 40.2%, respectively. Critical factors associated with undernutrition included the age bracket of 1 to 5 years—precisely, 12-35 months (adj.PR=1.49; 1.01-2.19) and above 35 months (adj.PR=1.55;1.03-2.32)—and a diet comprising less than three food groups daily, significantly increasing the risk of undernutrition.
Conclusion: In conclusion, this study highlights a disturbingly high prevalence of undernutrition (61.2%) among children aged 6-59 months with CP in Ugandan rehabilitation centers, with stunting and underweight being the most prevalent forms.
Mosquito Repellence of Solvent Extracts andActivated Charcoal Obtained from Agro-WasteCoconut Shells
Authors: Baindur Siddharth , Gohil Rinkesh , Kolte Satish
Published: March 2024

Description of the Subject
Burning coconut shells have been used since ages in rural India to ward away mosquitoes; we studied this traditional method in detail in our research using modern techniques such as dry distillation, solvent extraction, chromatography and infrared spectroscopy to decipher its constitution and efficacy.
Objectives
In our research, coconut shells in the form of activated charcoal and chemical extracts obtained from the shell were used to test their mosquito (Aedes aegyptii) repellence and knockdown efficacy using distinct methods.
Methods
Solvent extraction, fractional distillation, column chromatography, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and Peet Grady’s chamber were used as per the WHO guidelines for testing insecticides.
Results
The petroleum ether extract from the solvent extraction technique was found to be most effective, with a 100% mortality rate after 30 mins. The extract mainly contained aromatic compounds, alkanes and ketonic groups.
Conclusion
Activated charcoal obtained from agro-waste coconut shells can be used as an alternative filler in industrially manufactured mosquito coils. The petroleum extract can be used as a great mosquito repellent in contrast to hazardous chemicals already present in the coils.