bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Diabetes and Being Overweight on Patients with Post-COVID-19 Syndrome
Authors: Kirbiš Simona , Sobotkiewicz Nina , Schaubach Barbara Antolinc , Završnik Jernej , Kokol Peter , Završnik Matej , Blažun Vošner Helena
Published: August 2023

In the aftermath of the COVID pandemic, post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS) remains a challenge and may continue to represent a major health problem in the future. Moreover, the influence of type 2 diabetes and being overweight on PCS remains unclear. This study aimed to assess this influence. We performed an observational study from October 2020 to July 2022, which included 466 patients (269 males and 197 females) with a median age of 65. They were hospitalized due to COVID-19 pneumonia and had persistent symptoms after 1 month of COVID-19 infection. The patients were divided into four groups according to the study objectives: patients with type 2 diabetes, overweight patients, overweight patients with type 2 diabetes, and normal-weight patients without type 2 diabetes. The clinical and demographic data collected during hospitalization and regular visits at the Community Healthcare Center dr. Adolf Drolc Maribor were analyzed. Our results showed that type 2 diabetes patients had a more difficult course of treatment and longer hospitalization. Moreover, more type 2 diabetes patients underwent rehabilitation than the other study groups. The prevailing symptoms in our patients with PCS were dyspnea and fatigue, mostly in female patients with type 2 diabetes. Our study also showed that more women with type 2 diabetes and more overweight women with type 2 diabetes suffered from secondary infections. Further, more overweight patients were treated in the intensive care unit compared to the other groups. However, our study showed an interesting result that patients with type 2 diabetes had the shortest PCS durations. Type 2 diabetes and being overweight are risk factors for PCS onset and prolonged duration. Therefore, our data that revealed a shorter duration of PCS in type 2 diabetes patients compared to the other investigated groups was unexpected. We believe that answering this question regarding the results will enable us to improve PCS treatment in general.
DEVELOPMENT OF EDMODO-BASED E-LEARNING MEDIA OF GEOGRAPHY LESSON CLASS XI STATE SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 1 OF SUWAWA
Authors: Hamzah Nur'ain , Maryati Sri , Koem Syahrizal
Published: August 2023

The Covid-19 pandemic brought challenges for education sector in the learning process. The problems faced in learning during the pandemic were the lack of use of ICT-based media by teachers. This study aims to produce Edmodo-based learning media of geography lesson on the topic of Indonesian cultural diversity. This development research applied ADDIE model that consist of five stages includes analysis stage, design stage, development stage, implementation stage, and the evaluation stage. The results of the media development were validated by three experts namely media design expert, material expert, and geography teacher. The validation result from media design expert is very valid with score of 87.27%. Validation result from material expert is very valid with scored 80%, and validation from geography teacher is very valid with score of 88%. Media trials were carried out on students to collect student responses on the clarity of the material, appearance of the media, ease of understanding, and the use of language. The average student response to learning media gets 91.82%. Based on the research result, it can be concluded that the Edmodo-based learning media is suitable for learning process both offline and online learning.
DETERMINING TRANS JOGJA BUS STOP LOCATIONS USING A COMBINATION OF SPATIAL ANALYSIS AND FUZZY LOGIC
Authors: Yudinugroho Maulana , Apriyanti Dessy , Lidyani Lia
Published: August 2023

The increase in population from migration coupled with natural growth resulted in a high population density in Yogyakarta City, with a negative impact of traffic congestion due to the number of vehicles that were not proportional to road capacity. One of the efforts to lessen congestion was through efficient public transportation. Trans Jogja can be one of the solutions to this problem. However, despite having up to 90 stops in Yogyakarta City, the existing stop locations are not evenly distributed. Thus, in order to propose appropriate bus stop locations, this study aimed to utilize the weighting and utilization of GIS, based on a number of factors usithe ng fuzzy logic method. The result showed that the weight of eh parameter also influenced locations with a high suitability. Values with a high match were pixel values ranging from 6.824 to 9.49. The location of high suitability was close to the road around the location with a high level of crowds, such as office areas, shopping centers, hotels, educational facilities, and tourism. This study proved that fuzzy logic could be used as a tool in spatial analysis to obtain criteria for a location by considering the probability of correctness of each selected parameter.
Diksi dan Gaya Bahasa dalam Ceramah Ustadz Abdul Somad di Madura
Authors: Julherman
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this study is to explain the rhetorical style of preaching by Ustadz Abdul Somad and the consequences when delivering his lecture at the Al-Hamidy Islamic Boarding School, Banyuanyar, Pamekasan. This study uses a qualitative method that is descriptive analysis. The data collection technique is Download, view, listen, and record. As for the data analysis technique, using Aristotle's rhetorical theory, namely the five canons of rhetorics combined with Gorys Keraf's concepts, namely diction and language style, characterized by (1) Reading every lecture discourse that has been converted into written language; (2) Marking utterances that contain diction and figurative language; (3) Identifying diction characteristics (intonation, high tone, low tone, connotative, formal, informal, idiom, slang, and jargon), language style characteristics (majas, metaphor, lexicon, etc.), body style characteristics (looking to the left/ right, swinging arms, looking down). The results showed that Ustadz Abdul Somad combined diction and language style including (words and word choice, word meaning, language style based on word choice, tone, sentence structure, meaning, gestures).
Penokohan Karakter Superhero Berhijab pada Webcomic Qahera dalam Memerangi Pemikiran Misoginis di Mesir
Authors: Asilady Yuani
Published: August 2023

This article aims to analyze and elaborate the interpretation of the depiction of misogynistic cases that is contained in the web comic “Qahera the Superhero”. In this study, the researcher interprets the misogynistic issue which refers to the interview section from an Illustrator of “Qahera the Superhero” named Deena, the results of the interview was later published on the vice.com page. This article is a descriptive qualitative research, in which the research conducted data searches regarding to the explanation and description of misoginism, especially for what is happening in Egypt. The method of this research is a literature review which using journals that is related to the issues that is relevant to this study. In addition, the researchers made observations and searches about the news that was published on the vice.com page with the title “Qahera, Karakter Superhero Berhijab asal Mesir Membasmi Pemikiran Misoginis”. The results of the study found that the misogynistic issues contained in the Qahera comic were the result of visualization of cases of sexual harassment and violence that occurred in Egypt. The characterization of the hijab-wearing superhero Qahera is a picture of Muslim women who experience violence and they rise up to be able to voice the injustices they experience.
Hambatan Pembelajaran Bahasa Arab pada Jenjang SMA di Jawa Barat
Authors: Syah Saprudin Padlil
Published: August 2023

Based on Government Regulation No. 4 of 2022, learning Arabic as a foreign language in high school is part of the mandate of Law No. 20 of 2003. In order to be relevant to the needs of the times, evaluation and development of the Arabic curriculum is a necessity. This study aims to identify barriers to learning Arabic in high schools so that they can be utilized by the government and related parties in developing the Arabic curriculum. This research uses a descriptive quantitative approach with the technique of distributing questionnaire instruments with a Likert scale. Respondents in this study were high school Arabic teachers in West Java. The data obtained were processed using SPPS. Based on the research, it is known that the obstacles in high school Arabic learning in West Java exist in eight factors with two classifications 1) rated significant on the factors of teaching materials (MA), teachers (G), curriculum (K), facilities (F), and teaching material sources (SB), with an average score of 2.55, 2.61, 2.71, 2.96, and 3.18; 2) rated very significant on the factors of students (S), teaching methods (MB), and government policies (KP) with an average score of 3.25, 3.29, and 3.46.
Ideologi pada Novel Ayat-Ayat Cinta: Analisis Wacana Kritis Model Van Dijk
Authors: Rosdiana Rina
Published: August 2023

The ideology contained in the novel is a central concept in critical discourse analysis. One of the novel authors who has a view of the surrounding existence through an ideology is Habiburarahman El Shirazy. The purpose of this research is to find out the form of ideology that underlies the novel Ayat-Ayat Cinta by Habiburahman El Shirazy and to describe the context that triggers an ideology contained in the novel. This research uses Van Dijk's Critical Discourse Analysis theory. This type of research is included in the type of qualitative descriptive research with content analysis techniques. The data in this study are sentences and paragraphs. Based on the research results, it is known that the ideology underlying the novel Ayat-Ayat Cinta by Habiburarahman El Shirazy is Islamic ideology. The context that triggers this ideology is how Habiburrahman El Shirazy views perceptions of Muslim and western society towards Islam, views on how to date in Islam, and based on Habiburrahman El Shirazy's biography. Overall, the novel Ayat-Ayat Cinta is a novel that reminds readers that at least they can change their mindset by reading and understanding the Quran well, implementing Islamic concepts in everyday life.
Unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) full coverage planning with negative obstacles
Authors: Lee Jin-Kyu , Naser Amir , Ennasr Osama , Soylemezoglu, Ahmet , Glaspell Garry
Published: August 2023

We explored approaches that offer full coverage path planning while simultaneously avoiding negative obstacles. These approaches are specific to unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), which need to constantly interact with a traversable ground surface. We tested multiple potential solutions in simulation, and the results are presented herein. Full coverage path planner (FCPP) approaches were evaluated based on their ability to discretize their paths, use waypoints effectively, and be easily integrated with our current robot platform. For negative obstacles, we explored approaches that will integrate with our current navigation stack. The preferred solution will allow for teleoperation, waypoint navigation, and full autonomy while avoiding positive and negative obstacles.
The Threat of The LGBT Community In Indonesia and How Muslims Should Act
Authors: Robiah Al Adawiyah Fatchiyyah , Aswar Hasbi , Widyaputry Primadiani Difida , Wahyuni Fitry
Published: August 2023

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT) has become a polemic in globalpolitics due to the rapid growth of this movement in various parts of the world. Theentry of LGBT in Indonesia is considered as the actualization of freedom oversexual orientation. On the other hand, LGBT also receives a lot of oppositionbecause Indonesia is a country with a majority Muslim population. This paper aimsto explain how massive the LGBT movement is in Indonesia and how Islamicorganizations such as NU and Muhammadiyah deal with it. This study uses theconcept of the role of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) as a tool to analyzethese problems. The method used is a qualitative method using literature studiesthrough online searches. The recommendation of this research is that Islamicorganizations should work more comprehensively to curb the growth of the LGBTmovement in Indonesia.

Keywords: Indonesia, Muslim Groups, Threat of LGBT.
Islam and environmental sustainability: Perspectives and challenges
Authors: Silatsa Nanda Serge , Suwardono Surwandono , Njoya Nchankou Abdoulaye , Sahide Ahmad , Brice Tedou Silatsa Francis , Felicite Temgoua Lucie
Published: August 2023

Recent studies stressed the importance of religion in addressing climate change and other environmental issues. However, little attention is paid to Islamic perception and challenges toward environmental sustainability. This study addresses a) Islamic prescriptions regarding environmental protection, b) Islamic involvement in environmental organizations worldwide and c) the assessment of the carbon impact of the Hajj. Our investigation shows a large range of Islamic prescriptions for the protection of the component of the environment such as water, air, soil, plants, and animals, making Islam a good defender of the environment. The strict implementation of these prescriptions would contribute to the mitigation of environmental issues that our planet is facing while insuring environmental sustainability. Muslims are as well actively working together with several Islamic environmental organisations around the world to protect our environment. The 2011-2019 Hajj season, for instance, has emitted an average of 5.2 million tonnes of CO2 per year for pilgrims’ transport using cars, boat and airplane. A strong correlation (0.77) was observed between the number of pilgrims and carbon emissions. Moreover about 42,000 tons of waste are produced annually during the Hajj. Actions, such as tree planting and waste recycling, have to be taken to reduce the environmental impact of pilgrimage, so as to support the green Hajj movement and showing the world that Islam is the reference in terms of ecological religion for environmental sustainability.

Keywords: Carbon Emission, Environment Sustainability, Hajj, Islam.
Implications of State Sovereignty for the Ratification of International Law
Authors: Yunus Nur Rohim , Sholeh Muhammad , Susilowati Ida
Published: August 2023

In international relations, the implications of state sovereignty on the ratification of international law is an essential issue. Conflicts between state sovereignty and international obligations arising from ratifying international agreements are the subject of this study. This discussion demonstrates that when countries authorize international contracts, they commit to abide by the stipulations of these agreements. Although state sovereignty is an essential principle in the national legal system, states must consider the effects of ratification on their authority to act contrary to nationally acknowledged principles and values. The research method used is qualitative, with a literature and statutory approach. The research results state that ratifying international treaties can benefit countries, such as increased international reputation and global cooperation. However, there are potential downsides, such as reduced state freedom of action and reliance on international oversight mechanisms. To address this challenge, countries need to adopt ratification decision-making mechanisms that are transparent, participatory and involve consultation with diverse stakeholders. Awareness of the implications of state sovereignty on ratification of international law is essential to ensure the existence of national legal sovereignty and achieve common global goals.
Keywords: State Sovereignty; Ratification of International Law; Ratification Decision
Cooperative Path Planning for Object Transportation with Fault Management
Authors: K Sindhuja , Sahu Bandita , Das Pardipta , Kumar Raghvendra
Published: August 2023

The current research intents on enhancing the service ability of mobile robot by cooperative path planning. The strategy is developed by fusion of sine cosine algorithm and particle swarm optimization approach for the transition of service robot in complex environment. To ensure the successful execution of the intended task it is essential to have a faultless and collision-less path for the mobile robot. This supposition can be achieved by producing an intelligent fault-managed approach. The proposed paper addresses the object transportation by a pair of robots from source to destination, this task can be accomplished in three step, such as fault identification, fault resolution using robot replacement and computation of a collision-less path. At each step of transition, path planning is carried out to reach the target location. Sine cosine algorithm improves the exploration capability of the robots in the multi robot environment. Particle swarm optimization being the simplest technique to exercise the path planning problem produces an optimal global position for each particle along each dimension. The fusion of both provides a balance exploration-exploitation ability of the mobile robot. Fault identification overcomes the faulty transition and unsuccessful transition of the robot by detecting the fault of any robot through its non-responding time. K- nearest neighbor approach identifies the nearest working robot to replace the faulty on. The algorithm has been exercised in C language to showcase its capability in terms of execution time, path traveled, path deviated etc. The comparative analysis proofs the supremacy of the proposed algorithm in terms of several metrics such as path planning, cooperation, fault management, etc.
Sonochemical-assisted synthesis combined with the plant-mediated approach for efficient and green synthesis of copper oxide nanoparticles: Study the effect of extraction techniques and comparative evaluation of some biological activities
Authors: Rajabi Hamid Reza , Alvand Zinab Moradi , Mirzaei Ali
Published: August 2023

The present study reported a green approach for sonochemical-assisted synthesis (SAS) of copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) by using the aqueous extract of the fruit of the Ficus Johannis plant. The aqueous extract was obtained using ultrasonic-assisted extraction (15 min, 45°C) and microwave-assisted extraction (15 min, 450 w). Next, the as-prepared aqueous extracts were used in a plant-mediated approach to synthesize CuO NPs. The synthesized CuO NPs have been characterized via different techniques including X-ray Diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), ultraviolet-visible absorption, photoluminescence, and Fourier-transformed infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopic techniques. As observed, a broad absorption band around 375 nm clarified the successful synthesis of CuO NPs. From the SEM analysis, the average particle size of the prepared CuO NPs was estimated below 50 nm. Afterward, the antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antifungal properties of the aqueous plant extracts and the as-prepared CuO NPs were evaluated by different assays. These included the release of protein, nucleic acids, disk diffusion method, also minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), and time-killing assays.
Landscape-scale drivers of spatial dynamics and genetic diversity in an emerging wildlife pathogen
Authors: Saenz Veronica , Byrne Allison Q. , Ohmer Michel E. B. , Hammond Talisin T. , Brannelly Laura A. , Altman Karie A. , Kosowsky Miranda , Nordheim Caitlin L. , Rosenblum Erica Bree , Richards-Zawacki Corinne L.
Published: August 2023

Aquatic pathogens often cannot tolerate drying, and thus their spread and diversity across a landscape may depend on interactions between hydrological conditions and the movement of infected hosts. The aquatic fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) is a nearly ubiquitous pathogen of amphibians and particular lineages have been associated with host declines. By coupling amphibian surveys with molecular pathogen detection and genotyping techniques, we characterized the spatial dynamics and genetic diversity of Bd on a landscape containing both permanent and ephemeral ponds. At the start of spring breeding, Bd prevalence and load were lower on amphibians sampled from ephemeral ponds and the first amphibians to arrive at these ponds were species that breed in ephemeral ponds and likely emerged infected from terrestrial hibernacula. However, species from permanent ponds, which later visited the ephemeral ponds, had a greater prevalence and load of Bd, suggesting that migrants among ponds also move Bd across the landscape. The Bd we sampled was genetically diverse but showed little genetic structure among ponds, host species, or seasons. Taken together, our findings suggest that Bd can be diverse even at small scales and moves readily across a landscape with help from its hosts.
An adjustable, safe and highly protective live-attenuated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine based on large-scale one-to-stop codon modifications
Authors: Beer Martin , Schön Jacob , Barut Güliz , Trüeb Bettina , Halwe Nico , Veiga Inês , Kratzel Annika , Ulrich Lorenz , Kelly Jenna , Brügger Melanie , Wylezich Claudia , Taddeo Adriano , Moreira Etori , Túrós Péter , Grau-Roma Llorenç , Ahrens Ann Kathrin , Schlottau Kore , Britzke Tobias , Breithaupt Angele , Exteves Blandina , Almeida Lea , Thomann Lisa , Devisme Christelle , Stadler Hanspeter , Steiner Silvio , Ochsenbein Sarah , Schmied Kimberly , Labroussaa Fabien , Jores Jörg , V´kovski Philip , Cmiljanovic Vladimir , Alves Maro , Benarafa Charaf , Hoffmann Donata , Ebert Nadine , Thiel Volker
Published: August 2023

Vaccines are the most effective measure against COVID-19. However, novel and highly efficacious vaccines with simplified administration and broad immunogenicity, providing systemic and mucosal immunity are needed. Here, we show the development of live-attenuated vaccines (LAV) based on (i) recoding the SARS-CoV-2 genome to enrich for "one-to-stop" (OTS) codons, (ii) facilitating host responses by disabling non-structural-protein-1 (Nsp1) mediated translational repression, and deletion of open reading frames (ORF) 6, 7ab and 8, and (iii) deleting the spike polybasic cleavage site (PCS) to reduce LAV replication in the lung and prevent vaccine shedding. The OTS-modified SARS-CoV-2 LAV is adjustable regarding the level of attenuation, particularly vulnerable to mutagenic antiviral drugs, and protects efficiently against wild-type (WT) SARS-CoV-2 and recent variants of concern (VOC) in K18-hACE2 transgenic mice and Syrian hamsters. Furthermore, LAV immunization results in faster virus clearance after SARS-CoV-2 challenge compared to mRNA vaccines, a complete block of transmission of WT SARS-CoV-2, and significantly reduced transmission of Omicron BA.2 and BA.5 variants. Overall, the newly developed OTS-based LAVs represent a new generation of live vaccines that are intranasal administered at the natural site of infection, provide efficient and innovative infection control, and conceptionally are readily applicable to many other emerging viruses.
The association of multimorbidity of metabolic syndrome and depression on type 2 diabetes: A general population cohort study in Southwest China
Authors: Tian Kunming , Zhou Shiyu , Zhai Bin , Luo Lei , Deng Renli , Dai Mi , Dai Xingyu , Wang Yiying , Chen Shaolin , Liu Tao
Published: August 2023

Background
Metabolic syndrome(MetS) and depression are independently associated with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) risk. However, little is known about the combined effect of MetS and depression on the risk of T2DM. The present study aims to prospectively explore the effect of MetS together with depression on T2DM susceptibility among Chinese general population.
Methods
6489 general population without T2DM of adults in Southwest China were recruited from 2010 to 2012. Depression and MetS were prospectively assessed by using 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire and Chinese guidelines for the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes during 2017–2020, respectively. Modified Poisson regression models were conducted to estimate risk ratio and 95% confidence intervals for independent and combined associations of MetS and depression with incidence of T2DM.
Results
During a median follow-up of 7.4 years, 678 cases of T2DM were documented. Individuals with MetS were 1.03–1.71 times more likely to develop T2DM compared with those without MetS. The corresponding RR for depression with no depression was 1.22–1.72. Notably, compared with no MetS and depression, the multivariate-adjusted RR for combined effect of MetS and depression on risk of T2DM was 2.11(1.39–3.22). Moreover, an increased risk of T2DM were more apparent in those who were over 60 years, males, and overweight population.
Conclusions
Individuals with multimorbidity of MetS and depression are at a higher risk of T2DM compared with those who with no MetS and depression.
Non-Hermitian broadside coupled split ring resonators with directional sensitivity
Authors: Zhao Xiaoguang , Sun Zhenci , Zhang Lingyun , Liang Chao , Li Bingbai , Lu Wenshuai , Zhang Wenqiang , You Rui , Zhao Jiahao , You Zheng
Published: August 2023

Directional radiofrequency (RF) sensing, also known as radio direction finding, is essential in various applications that involve localizing RF sources. However, existing RF sensing technologies face challenges due to their large antenna sizes and complex RF signal processing circuits, which hinder the realization of miniaturized subwavelength direction sensors. In this article, we presented a non-Hermitian broadside coupled split ring resonators (BC-SRRs), which can identify the direction of an incident RF signal with angles ranging from 0° to 180°. The non-Hermitian Hamiltonian of the system, which can be interpreted by the temporal coupled mode theory, gives rise to asymmetric resonant modes of the BC-SRRs. The asymmetry allows the direct measurement of RF wave incident angle by probing the resonant strength of the two SRRs. For the proof of concept, we employed a one-stage Dickson voltage multiplier to rectify the RF signals and demonstrated angle sensing ability by relating the rectified voltage to the incident angle. Our results showcase the potential of the proposed technique using non-Hermitian BC-SRRs as a pathway towards subwavelength antenna-based radio direction finding.
Clinical reasoning development using case-based direct illness scripts teaching on an online gamified learning platform
Authors: Sophark Praewa , Limratchapong Chompoonut , Liabsuetrakul Tippawan
Published: August 2023

BackgroundThe effectiveness of illness scripts in teaching clinical reasoning and the use of case-based illness script worksheets to enhance diagnostic skills in pre-clinical medical students have been previously established. Additionally, online gamified learning has proven effective in increasing student motivation and engagement. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness and satisfaction of case-based direct illness script teaching through an online gamified learning platform among pre-clinical students.MethodsA randomized controlled study was conducted among 184 second-year medical students at a university hospital. Over a six-week rotation, participants were randomized into traditional lectures and clinical reasoning group. All students were assigned a pre-test on the first day of the rotation, followed by an initial four weeks of traditional lectures. The control group was assessed post-test at the end of the fourth week. The intervention group received an additional clinical correlation lesson in the fifth week using an online gamified learning platform followed by a post-test. Satisfaction was assessed using a five-point Likert scale. The characteristics of students in the two groups were compared. Wilcoxon’s rank sum test was used to compare pre- and post-test scores and score differences between the groups.ResultsOf the 184 students, there were no differences in sex, age, or grade point average between the groups. The scores of 174 students (86 and 88 in the control and intervention groups, respectively) indicated low baseline knowledge in all domains. The clinical reasoning group had higher total scores than the control group (16.0 vs. 6.0, p < .001). The satisfaction of 132 students were “strongly agree” and “agree” with the process of online clinical correlation education (Mean, 4.90; SD, 0.34).ConclusionsUsing case-based direct illness script teaching with a gamified learning platform in pre-clinical education improves knowledge through clinical reasoning skills with high satisfaction.
Prevalence and determinants ofcaesarean delivery at child birth order in India: Insights from national representative data
Authors: Kapasia Nanigopal , Roy Avijit , Rahaman Margabur , Ghosh Swagata , Chouhan Pradip
Published: August 2023

Background
The safe delivery of a baby is a central issue of maternal and child health in low- and middle-income-countries. In India, the C section delivery has drastically increased from 2.9 percent to 17.2 percent nearly in last twenty-three years (NFSH-1, 1992-93 to NFSH-4, 2015-16). The alarming rate of c-section was found in southern states of India.
Objective
The present study aims to explain the prevalence and determinants of caesarean delivery at child birth order among Indian women aged 15–49 years.
Methods
Fourth wave of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4) data is used for study. Descriptive statistics were carried out to understand the distribution of study participants. Bivariate analysis was conducted to examine the prevalence of caesarean section delivery at the birth order of woman. The multivariable logistic regression was applied to examine the factors associated with c-section delivery at birth order of women.
Results
The incidence of c-sections was higher in first order birth and it proportionately decreased with increasing the birth order. A mother’s aged above 35 years is more inclined towards c-section (50.1%) at first birth than the last birth (3.5%). The difference of c-section delivery between at first and last birth order acutely found for women belonging to higher education (40.6 vs. 17.3%) and richest HHs quintile (39.3 vs. 13.7%). women aged above 35 years were more likely to experience for caesarean delivery than young mother of 15–24 years at first order birth (OR: 1.7, CI: 1.5–1.9) and second order birth (OR: 1.4, CI: 1.2–1.5). Private health care institutions hold a massive number of c-section deliveries. The women who had higher exposure to mass media were more likely to experience c-section delivery for all birth.
Conclusion
There is needed to examine elective or emergency CS for rational use of the procedure. There should be maintained strictly the useful guidance and norms of WHO recommendation regarding CS. Finally the holistic programmes in terms of public-private partnerships are needed to reduce unnecessary C-section cases for better improvement of women’s and newborn health.
Effect of Remimazolam vs Propofol in High-Risk Patients Undergoing Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy: A Non-Inferiority Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Li Zhi , Yuan Daming , Yu Yu , Xu Jie , Yang Weili , Chen Li , Luo Nanbo
Published: August 2023

Background
Procedural sedation is essential for optimizing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, particularly in high-risk patients with multiple underlying diseases. Respiratory and circulatory complications present significant challenges for procedural sedation in this population. This non-inferiority randomized controlled trial aims to investigate the safety and comfort of remimazolam compared to propofol for procedural sedation during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in high-risk patients.
Methods
A total of 576 high-risk patients scheduled to undergo upper gastrointestinal endoscopy were enrolled in this study and randomly allocated to either the remimazolam or propofol group. The primary outcome measure is a composite endpoint, which includes (1) achieving a Modified Observer's Alertness/Sedation scale(MOAA/S) score ≤ 3 before endoscope insertion; (2) successful completion of the endoscopic procedure; (3) absence of significant respiratory instability during the endoscopy and treatment; and (4) absence of significant circulatory instability during the examination. The noninferiority margin was 10%. Any adverse events (AEs) that occur will be reported.
Discussion
This trial aims to determine whether remimazolam is non-inferior to propofol for procedural sedation during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in high-risk patients, with regard to success rate, complication incidence, patient comfort, and satisfaction.
Trial registration
: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (http://www.chictr.org.cn), ChiCTR2200066527. Registered on 7 December 2022.
Performance study and application of antifreeze composite road dust suppressant
Authors: xia Shiyang , Song Ziling , zhao xiaoliang , MA ZhiMin , li jiyang
Published: August 2023

Truck transportation is a major source of dust in open-pit coal mines. According to the dust characteristics of open-pit mine roads under extremely low winter temperatures, an anti-freezing composite pavement dust inhibitor was developed and tested in the field. X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis of road dust were first performed, and four functional materials were mixed with glycerol (GLY), polyacrylamide (PAM), sodium dodecyl benzenesulfonate (SDBS), and compound propylene glycol (PG) and potassium acetate (PA). Water loss rate was used as an evaluation index to determine the optimal ratio of the antifreeze composite dust suppressant: 3wt% GLY, 0.07wt% PAM, 0.30wt% SDBS, and 15wt% PG + 10wt% PA. The wettability, evaporation resistance, and wind erosion resistance of the dust suppressant were investigated, the viscosity coefficient and freezing point were measured, and the toxicity and corrosion were evaluated. The results showed that the dust had strong hydrophobicity due to its chemical composition and properties, and the composite dust inhibitor had good wetting, agglomeration, moisturizing, and anti-freezing properties. The freezing point reached − 51.4℃, forming a solid pavement crust, which resisted the Level 7 wind erosion. Moreover, the solution was neutral (pH), non-toxic, and non-corrosive. Under the same conditions, the dust suppression efficiency of the dust suppressant on total dust and exhaled dust was significantly higher than that of water sprinkling. The dust concentration of the dust suppressant section of the test area was reduced by more than half relative to the dust concentration of the water sprinkling section. The dust concentration was controlled below 4 mg/m3, and the effective dust suppression time was as long as 6 days, which has significant economic and environmental benefits.
Copper, lead and cadmium monitoring via the Small-spotted catshark (Scyliorhinus canicula; Linnaeus, 1758): space-time driven variability in Western Mediterranean populations
Authors: Molera Alejandro J. , Hernández-Martínez Ana Ma , March Jose Rafael García , Medialdea Jose Tena
Published: August 2023

The philopatric and sedentary nature of female Scyliorhinus canicula, its high abundance as a bycatch and resilience to regular exploitation by bottom trawl fisheries and its widespread distribution, make it a potentially good candidate as a biomonitor species. To evaluate this potential, Microwave Assisted Extraction (MAE) and Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GF-AAS) were used to analyse Pb, Cd and Cu in muscle tissue of individuals captured in the Western Mediterranean (Alicante, Spain). A monthly assessment of the concentration of these three analytes was conducted from November 2019 to November 2020 with 300 individuals. Results showed the existence of slightly higher mean concentrations during warmer seasons for Pb and Cd with mean concentrations for Pb and Cu peaking in Autumn 2019 and during Spring 2020 in the case of Cd. Significant differences in analyte concentrations found between non-consecutive months suggested gradual variability in time. Although space-wise, time-persistent concentration hotspots were observed throughout the sample area, the magnitude of these appeared to be variable in time and should be evaluated in future studies.
MAGICIAN: MAG simulation for Investigating Criteria for bioInformatic ANalysis
Authors: Steinke Kat , Pamp Sünje J , Munk Patrick
Published: August 2023

Background The possibility of recovering metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) from sequence reads allows for further insights into microbial communities and their members, possibly even analyzing such sequences with tools designed for single-isolate genomes. As result quality depends on sequence quality, performance of tools for single-isolate genomes on MAGs should be tested beforehand. Bioinformatics can be leveraged to quickly create varied synthetic test sets with known composition for this purpose.
Results We present MAGICIAN, a flexible, user-friendly pipeline for the simulation of MAGs. MAGICIAN combines a synthetic metagenome simulator with a metagenomic assembly and binning pipeline to simulate MAGs based on user-supplied input genomes, allowing users to test performance of tools on MAGs while having a ground truth to compare results to. We also demonstrate the use of simulated MAGs by evaluating the suitability of such genomes obtained with MAGICIAN's current default pipeline for analysis with the antimicrobial resistance gene identification tool ResFinder.
Conclusions Using MAGICIAN, it is possible to simulate MAGs which, while generally high in quality, reflect issues encountered with real-world data, thus providing realistic best-case data. Evaluating the results of ResFinder analysis of these genomes revealed a risk for plausible-looking false positives, which underlines the need for pipeline validation so that researchers are aware of the potential issues when interpreting real-world data.
Clinical outcomes of pulpotomy using a premixed injectable calcium silicate cement on mature permanent teeth with reversible pulpitis
Authors: Cho Sin-Yeon , Park Seonghun , Shin Yooseok , Jung Il-Young
Published: August 2023

The aim of this two-center randomized controlled trial was to evaluate the outcomes of pulpotomies performed using a premixed injectable calcium silicate cement, compared to mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) in mature permanent teeth with reversible pulpitis. Included teeth were randomly divided into two groups according to pulpotomy material (ProRoot MTA group, Endocem MTA Premixed group). After pulp exposure, the superficial pulp was either removed to a depth of 2 mm (partial pulpotomy) or completely amputated to the level of the root canal orifice (full pulpotomy). A 3-mm layer of either material was randomly placed over the pulp wound, followed by the application of a thin layer of a light-cured glass ionomer composite liner. The restoration procedure was then carried out during the same visit. The overall pulpotomy success rate was 94.4% (67/71); 93.9% in the ProRoot MTA and 97.1% in Endocem MTA Premixed with no significant difference between the groups. Calcific bridge formation occurred in 6 (24.0%) cases in the ProRoot MTA group and 10 (40.0%) cases in the Endocem MTA Premixed group. Endocem MTA Premixed is a viable alternative to ProRoot MTA for single-visit pulpotomies of permanent premolars and molars.
Improve prediction accuracy of short time series sequences with self-attention-based stacking algorithm
Authors: Ge Hao , Lyu Yan , Wu Peng , Zhou Xiao-hua , Yu Qian
Published: August 2023

Time series forecasting is of paramount importance for the daily operations of various enterprises. Particularly, addressing time series problems with short sequence lengths presents unique challenges, as product life cycles continue to decrease, but conventional time series models still require adequate sample sizes. In this study, we introduce a novel stacked generalization method that incorporates the self-attention mechanism, allowing for the effective utilization of diverse models in short time series forecasting. Through the application of real data, we demonstrate the remarkable potential of our proposed method and show its ability to overcome the limitations of traditional approaches in tackling short time series forecasting problems.
Incidence and risk factors of surgical site infection in abdominal surgeries: A scoping review of cohort and case–control studies
Authors: Jahangir Fereidoun , Okhovati Maryam , Moameri Hossein , Haghdoost AliAkbar
Published: August 2023

Background Abdominal surgery is considered a high-risk surgery for the development of surgical site infection. Few studies have evaluated the relative importance of its risk factors. Therefore, in this paper we mapped and summarized the evidence aimed to determine the relative importance of the risk factors and incidence of surgical site infections in abdominal surgery. Methods We searched SCOPUS, PubMed, and Web of Science databases up to March 16, 2023. Using the methodology of the Joanna Briggs Institute, we used both univariate and multivariate analysis results to evaluate the relative importance of the risk factors. Results Of 14,237 identified records, 107 articles were included in the review. The National Nosocomial Infection Surveillance (NNIS) risk index, operative time, and higher wound class were strong risk factors for surgical site infection incidence. Patients' educational status, malnutrition, functional status, and history of neurological/psychiatric disorders were also the risk factors, but there is a need for more evidence to reach a conclusion. The pooled incidence of surgical site infections was 10.6% (95% CI 9.02–12.55) in abdominal surgery, and the type of surgical procedures accounted for 31.5% of the heterogeneity. Conclusion Our findings show that surgical site infection in abdominal surgery is a multifactorial phenomenon with a considerable risk and has different risk factors with various relative importance. Determining the relative importance of the risk factors for prevention and control of surgical site infection is strongly recommended. We provide some recommendations for future research.
Absorptive Removal of Palm Oil Free Fatty Acids Onto Silica/smectite Composite: A Statistical Study using Box-Behnken Design in Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Kepdieu Jean M. , Tchanang Gustave , Njimou Jacques R. , Djangang Chantale N. , Maicaneanu Sanda A. , Tizaoui Chedly
Published: August 2023

Response Surface Methodology was used to evaluate the main and interactions effects of contact time (20–60 min), temperature (60–90°C) and adsorbent dosage (1–2%) of the palm oil free fatty acids (FFAs) adsorption onto a silica/smectite composite. The regression model was found to be able to predict more than 99% of the targeted response variation in the studied range (R2 = 99.31%). An ANOVA was used to evaluate the accuracy of the regression model and it was found to predict more than 99% of the response variation. The Pareto Charts of Standardized Effects showed that almost all the explanatory factors were influential. The factorial plots evidenced that time/temperature interaction was most effective and the corresponding contour and surface plots were drawn. The second-order kinetic model was better followed with the highest value of the determination coefficient (R2 = 0.996) and the lowest value of Root Mean Square Deviation of 0.555. Response Optimizer Function showed an optimum for FFAs removal of more than 90% (27.18 mg of KOH/g) at the adsorbent dosage of 2%, contact time of 60 min, and temperature of 90°C. Moreover, a good correlation between the predicted and experimental values was observed within reasonable limits.
Exploring the Impact of Stage and Tumor Site on Colorectal Cancer Survival: Bayesian Survival Modeling
Authors: Alinia Shayeste , Ahmadi Samira , Mohammadi Zahra , shirvandeh Farzaneh Rastkar , Asghari-Jafarabadi Mohammad , Safari Malihe , Roshanaei Ghodratollah , Mahmoudi Leila
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Colorectal cancer is a prevalent malignancy with global significance. This retrospective study aimed to investigate the influence of stage and tumor site on survival outcomes in 284 colorectal cancer patients diagnosed between 2001 and 2017.
Method:Patients were categorized into four groups based on tumor site (colon and rectum) and disease stage (early stage and advanced stage). Demographic characteristics, treatment modalities, and survival outcomes were recorded. Bayesian survival modeling was performed using semi-competing risks illness-death models with an accelerated failure time (AFT) approach, utilizing R 4.1 software.
Results: Results demonstrated significantly higher time ratios for disease recurrence (TR = 1.712, 95% CI = 1.489-2.197), mortality without recurrence (TR = 1.933, 1.480-2.510), and mortality after recurrence (TR = 1.847, 1.147-2.178) in early-stage colon cancer (Cc - early stage) compared to early-stage rectal cancer (RC). Furthermore, patients with advanced-stage rectal cancer (RC-advanced stages) exhibited shorter survival times for disease recurrence than patients with early-stage colon cancer (Cc-early stages). The interaction effect between disease site and cancer stage was not significant.
Conclusion: These findings, derived from the optimal Bayesian log-normal model for terminal and non-terminal events, highlight the importance of early detection and effective management strategies for colon cancer. Early-stage colon cancer (Cc - early stage) demonstrated improved survival rates for disease recurrence, mortality without recurrence, and mortality after recurrence compared to other stages. Early intervention and comprehensive care are crucial to enhance prognosis and minimize adverse events in colon cancer patients.
Causal relationship between obstructive sleep apnea and asthma: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wu Yingni , Cheng Xiaoning
Published: August 2023

Backgrounds: To date, the question of whether there is a causal relationship between obstructive sleep apnea and asthma remains unclear. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the bidirectional causal relationship between obstructive sleep apnea and asthma (allergic and nonallergic). Methods We used publicly available genome-wide association study (GWAS) data for two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. Inverse variance weighting (IVW) was used as the primary analysis method. MR‒Egger, weighted median and weighted mode were used as complementary methods to IVW. In addition, sensitivity analyses were performed using MR‒Egger, Cochran's Q test and leave-one-out analysis to ensure the robustness of the results. Results The IVW results showed that obstructive sleep apnea had a causal effect on both allergic asthma (OR = 1.16, 95% CI:1.01–1.34, P < 0.05) and nonallergic asthma (OR = 1.27, 95% CI:1.08–1.49, P < 0.05). In addition, allergic asthma was also causally associated with obstructive sleep apnea (OR = 1.10, 95% CI:1.04–1.17, P < 0.05). However, nonallergic asthma had no causal effect on obstructive sleep apnea (OR = 1.04, 95% CI:0.98–1.09, P = 0.190). Cochran's Q test, MR‒Egger regression and MR-PRESSO Global test suggested that the results were robust. Conclusions This study found that obstructive sleep apnea had a causal effect on both allergic and nonallergic asthma. Conversely, there was a causal effect of allergic asthma on obstructive sleep apnea. However, nonallergic asthma had no causal effect on obstructive sleep apnea.