bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance analysis of biodegradable Composite using Polyvinyl Alcohol and Pomegranate Peel Powder for Sustainable Packaging Applications
Authors: Sivaranjana P. , Nagaraj Rajini , Krishnane Kumar , Mohammad Faruq
Published: August 2024

Fabricating a biodegradable packaging material is the requirement of this era to safeguard our planet from climatic change and waste management issues. Almost 55% of the waste was generated from packaging material used for various purposes. We have developed a biodegradable PVA/PPP composite film for dry packaging. The Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) water soluble, biodegradable polymer was taken as the matrix, and pomegranate peel powder (PPP) the agro waste material was chosen as the filler material. The developed PVA/PPP composite films were characterized with optical microscopy, FTIR, XRD, TGA and moisture analysis. The addition of the filler PPP into the matrix PVA, increased the moisture absorption tendency, decreased the rate of water solubility of the PVA matrix, decreased the crystallinity of the matrix PVA and increased the thermal stability upto 423°C. The pH of the PPP filler material is 4.5, which assist in the preventing the microbial attack. All these characterizations revealed that the developed PVA/PPP composite films have better thermal stability over the matrix PVA. These PVA/PPP composite films can be used as packaging material for dry food substances, electronics, and other moisture free materials. The fabricated PVA/PPP composite films were completely biodegradable and developed via green synthesis without using hazardous materials. Another advantage over the fabrication was the utilization of the filler material PPP which will reduce the solid waste in the environment.
Inhibitory effect of rBCG containing the fusion gene BFNA on EBV-positive tumours
Authors: Zhang Li , Huang Shuo , Shao Shuyang , Fan Liding , Wang Junying , Meng Furen , Wang Changhao , Wang Yuanhui , Xue Qingjie
Published: August 2024

Background
To obtain recombinant Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (rBCG) containing an Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) fusion gene that can inhibit EBV-positive cancer.
Methods
We obtained BZLF1 and EBNA1 cDNA, and overlapped jointly to assemble the fusion gene BFNA. Then pMV-BFNA was transformed into BCG-competent cells after inserting BFNA into pMV38. With western blotting to detect the target fusion protein, specific antibodies were detected in serum by ELISAs and spleen cell-specific cytokines were detected by ELISPOT. CTL activity, tumour weight, tumour formation time and mouse survival were analysed in EBV-positive tumour cell (NPRC18) cancer models, and flow cytometry was performed to analyse the quantities of CD8+ and CD4+ T cells in C57BL/6J mice. Single-factor analysis of variance was performed with SPSS 19.0 to evaluate rBCG inhibition.
Results
The molecular weight of the fusion protein was approximately 55.5 kD. The titer of antibody in the rBCG group was highly significant (P ≤ 0.01)and prolonged that tumorigenesis time, the specific killing ability targeting the recombinant target protein was increased. The rBCG group with the BFNA fusion gene demonstrated a better effect on tumours than BCG-EBNA1 and BCG-BZLF1 groups. Based on flow cytometry analysis, the numbers of CD4+ T and CD8+ T cells in the blood of the rBCG group were significantly higher than the control group (P < 0.01). The mice injected with rBCG had more obvious lymphocyte infiltration in the tumour area.
Conclusions
The rBCG exerts an obvious immune effect in mice and an inhibitory effect on EBV-positive tumour cell cancer models.
Limited Reperfusion Time Benefit of Emergency Medical Service Transportation for Acute Myocardial Infarction in an Urban Area
Authors: Chen Yu-Hsiang , Chang Kang-Wei , Fan I-Wei , Hsu Wan-Ling , Weng Yi-Ming
Published: August 2024

Background: ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is a critical condition that typically presents in the emergency department (ED) and expeditious reperfusion therapy is key to better outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the reperfusion time benefit and role of Emergency Medical Service (EMS) activation in patients with STEMI using the model of the county-based EMS system in Taiwan.
Methods: This retrospective cohort study was conducted over the four-year period at an urban, tertiary care teaching hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan. A total of 236 patients admitted to the ED with a diagnosis of STEMI during the study period were enrolled, of whom 174 (73.7%) arrived at the hospital on their own (self-transported group) and 62 (26.3%) were referred by the EMS (EMS-transported group). More patients in the EMS-transported group than self-transported group were classified as critical at triage (90.3% vs. 73.7%, p = 0.005). The mortality rates of the self-transported and EMS-transported patients were 4.6% and 11.5%, respectively (p = 0.060). In patients who survived to discharge, the median hospital LOS was 4.0 days [IQR: 3.0–5.0 days] in both groups (p = 0.545).
Results: The EMS-transported group had a significantly shorter door-to-ECG time (median: 2.0 minutes vs. 3.0 minutes, p = 0.020). The median D2B time was 68.0 vs. 69.0 minutes for the EMS vs. self-transported group (p = 0.826). Less than 30% of patients (29.0% vs. 25.9%, p = 0.628) achieved the 60-minute goal. Arrival at ED during office was the only factor significantly associated with achievement of the 60-minute goal (61.9 vs. 20.2%, p < 0.001).
Conclusion: EMS activation was not associated with a shorter in-hospital reperfusion time in patients with STEMI in an urban area with a short transportation time. Although they tended to have more severe disease, the EMS-transported patients had comparable clinical outcomes as the self-transported group.
Lightweight Improved YOLOv5 Algorithm for PCB Defect Detection
Authors: Xie Yinggang , Zhao Yanwei
Published: August 2024

A lightweight YOLOv5 improved algorithm-based inspection model is proposed to address the problems of defective printed circuit boards (PCBs), which are difficult to identify. First, the detection part of YOLOv5 is changed to dual-head detection to significantly improve the inference speed of the model on edge devices and adapt to the real-time target detection requirements. Second, the introduction of GSConv in the Neck part helps to further reduce the number of parameters of the model and improve the computational efficiency, which can enhance the model's capture ability.Finally, BiFPN is introduced to fuse multi-scale information to enhance the model's detection ability for targets of different sizes. The experimental results show that the improved lightweight YOLOv5 algorithm in this paper achieves 94.9% in the average accuracy mean (mAP@0.5), which is only 0.5 percentage points less compared to the original YOLOv5s algorithm. However, the improved algorithm has 56.2% fewer floating point operations (GFLOPs) and 53.7% fewer parameters. This improvement not only makes the algorithm more accurate and lightweight, but also significantly improves the efficiency of PCB inspection, which better meets the needs of industrial production.
Cardio-renal Effect of Dapagliflozin AND Dapagliflozin- Saxagliptin combination on CD34+ve Hematopoietic Stem Cells (HSCs) and Podocyte specific markers in Type 2 Diabetes (T2DM) subjects: a randomized trial.
Authors: Nandula Seshagiri Rao , Jain Arad , Sen Sabyasachi
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Effect of Dapagliflozin (Dapa) and Dapagliflozin-Saxagliptin combination (Combo) was examined on peripheral blood derived CD34 + Hematopoetic Stem Cells (HSC) as a cellular CVD biomarker. Both Dapa (a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 or SGLT2, receptor inhibitor) and Saxagliptin (a Di-peptydl-peptidase-4 or DPP4 enzyme inhibitor) are type 2 diabetes mellitus or T2DM medications, but the combo has not been evaluated for cardio-renal risk assessment.
Hypothesis: We hypothesized that Dapa will improve the outcomes when compared to placebo and the Combo maybe even more beneficial.
Methods 15 subjects were enrolled in 16 weeks, double-blind, three-arm, randomized placebo matched trial, with 10mg Dapa + Saxa placebo (n = 4), 10 mg Dapa + 5 mg Saxa (n = 5) Combo, And Dapa placebo + Saxa placebo (n = 6), Placebo groups. T2DM (30–70 yrs) with HbA1c of 7–10%, were included. CD34 + HSC number, migration, mRNA expression along with biochemistry and urine exosomes were measured. Data were collected at week 0, 8, and 16. For statistics, a mixed model regression analysis was used.
Results: Significant HbA1c (p = 0.0357) reduction was noted in Combo group versus Dapa alone and Placebo. hsCRP levels (P = 0.0317) and IL-6, two important inflammatory molecules, were significantly reduced in both Dapa and Combo vs Placebo. Leptin levels decreased significantly in both Dapa alone (p = 0.035) and Combo group(p = 0.015), vs Placebo, however the Adiponectin levels were higher in Dapa alone group. Dapagliflozin alone reduced lipid parameters significantly particularly triglyceride (TG) when compared to placebo, with resultant visit 3 values at 99.5 ± 7.2 vs 129 ± 12.3 and LDL/HDL ratio values were similar at 2.18 ± 0.08 vs 2.13 ± 0.15. CD34 + cell migration improved significantly in both Dapa alone (p = 0.05) and Combo group (p = 0.05) vs Placebo.
Conclusions: Several parameters showed significant improvement with both Dapa and Combo vs placebo. However, other than glycemic control the Combo didn’t seem to offer any further benefit over Dapa alone in terms of CD34 + cell, biochemistry and podocyte markers. Moreover, the combination may have deleterious effect on renal podocyte inflammation which needs to be examined in a larger study.
Trial Registration The trial was registered with Clinical Trials.gov number NCT03660683, last updated 06052023.
High Levels of Serum Uric Acid are Associated with Microvascular Complications in Patients with Long-term Diabetes
Authors: Wang Hanying , Gu Liping , Ma Yuhang , Xing Xindan , Qu Yuan , Shi Xin , Liu Xinyi , Wan Hancong , Zhu Qian , Shen Yingchen , Chen Chong , Su Li , Wang Yufan , Liu Kun
Published: August 2024

Aims
To assess the association between serum uric acid (SUA) level and the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy (DR) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) in patients with long-term diabetes.
Methods
A cross-sectional analysis was conducted involving diabetic patients from Shanghai General hospital during October 2018 and October 2021. Participants underwent measurements of SUA, renal function test and DR assessments via fundus photography. Multivariable ordinal logistic regression models assessed odd ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for the progression of DR and CKD. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves identified SUA thresholds, categorizing participants into low and high SUA groups.
Results
Among the 1015 patients with diabetes, SUA levels were higher in individuals with more sever CKD (p < 0.001, compared with CKD1) and those with vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy (VTDR) (p = 0.019, compared with no diabetic retinopathy (NDR)). Adjustments for potential confounders revealed that each 1 µmol/L increase in SUA was associated with an OR of 1.002 (95% CI: 1.001–1.004) for DR and 1.008 (95% CI: 1.006–1.011) for CKD. The risk of DR and CKD was elevated when SUA levels surpassed 354.0 µmol/L (95% CI: 318.9–393.2) and 361.0 µmol/L (95% CI: 339.2–386.3), respectively, with ORs of 1.571 (95% CI: 1.136–2.099, P = 0.006) for DR and 1.395 (95% CI: 1.033–1.885, P = 0.030) for CKD. Gender-specific analyses also demonstrated a positive correlation between higher SUA levels and the incidence of DR and CKD in both males and females.
Conclusions
Elevated SUA levels are independently associated with increased risks of DR and CKD, highlighting the importance of managing SUA levels in the patients with diabetes.
IFIT1 exacerbates atherosclerosis by activating Macrophage Extracellular Traps via the STING-TBK1 pathway
Authors: Chen Bingxing , Qi Yuan , Yu Xiaochen , Wang Chao , Jiang Peng , Guan Xiuru
Published: August 2024

Background: Interferon-induced protein with tetratricopeptide repeats 1 (IFIT1)'s role has been shown to drive immune regulation and inflammation in many human diseases. However, the exact mechanism of action of IFIT1 in AS is unclear, and the specific mechanism of action on METs is also unknown. In this study, we will explore the potential mechanisms of IFIT1 in the formation of METs during AS.
Methods: We downloaded GSE100927, GSE193336, GSE159677, IRGs, and METs-related genes for analysis and used qRT-PCR, flow cytometry, and immunofluorescence to detect the expression levels of IFIT1 and METs in plaques from AS patients and mice. The potential association of IFIT1 and METs in macrophages was similarly verified in LPS-induced macrophages. After IFIT1 silencing, the expression levels of METs were detected using qRT-PCR, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and WB. In addition, we delved into the potential mechanisms to detect the expression of the STING-TBK1 pathway and explored the interaction between IFIT1 and the STING-TBK1 pathway.
Results: Our results showed that IFIT1 was upregulated in AS patients, mouse plaque tissues, and LPS-induced macrophages. The same changes were observed in METs.The decrease in METs after IFIT1 silencing suggests that IFIT1 is involved in the regulation of macrophages through METs. Notably, with the decrease in IFIT1 levels, we observed a corresponding decrease in the STING-TBK1 pathway, which decreased accordingly, suggesting some connection between IFIT1, STING-TBK1, and METs. Validation of the effect of STING-TBK1 on a macrophage basis showed that the STING activator SR-717 increased the expression of METs, while the STING inhibitor H-151 had the opposite result. Interestingly, we added SR-717 and H-151 to si-IFIT1, respectively, and the same changes occurred in METs.
Conclusion: In summary, our study suggests that IFIT1 activates METs through the STING-TBK1 pathway, thereby aggravating AS.
Publication in the journal “High Temperature Corrosion of Materials” (Peer-reviewed) Microstructure of Cr 2 O 3 Scales Grown in Ar-5H 2 O-(5H 2 ) at 850 o C
Authors: Nguyen Thuan Dinh , Zhang Jianqiang , Young David J.
Published: August 2024

Model alloy, Fe-20Cr (wt.%), was oxidized in two gas mixtures Ar-5H2O-(5H2) (vol.%) at 850 oC. The alloy formed Cr2O3 scales in both gases. The Cr2O3 scale developed faster in Ar-5H2O-5H2 and contained fine pores, whilst that grown in Ar-5H2O was dense. Experiments with inert SiO2 marker revealed that the Cr2O3 scale growth in Ar-5H2O-(5H2) was controlled mainly by outward Cr diffusion. When adjusted for grain boundary diffusion effects, Wagner’s theory was successful in describing the hydrogen effect, provided that the Cr2O3 scales are n-type.
Human-Robot Interactions in Aged Care: Do service robots need to be social robots?
Authors: Macalupu Valeria , Caldwell Glenda , Miller Evonne , Martin Lee
Published: August 2024

The rise of robotics in aged care is transforming how older adults are cared for, addressing staff shortages and workload. These service and social robots interact with staff and residents on a daily basis, and there is an urgent need to better understand and improve human-robot interactions. This study investigates how 34 staff interacted with 10 service robots in a regional Australian aged care facility over 5 years, focusing primarily on their experience with service robots that transported meals and laundry. Guided by the Almere model, the research employs a qualitative case study approach, drawing on observations, focus groups, and interviews with management, industry leaders, and staff. Findings are categorised into Use and Adaptivity, Attitudes and Emotions, Social Attributes, and The Environment. Results indicate conditional acceptance of service robots with scepticism about the service robots’ reliability and practical utility. Our study highlights the importance of a supportive environment, including robust infrastructure and adequate training, for successful robotic adoption. It also argues for engaging diverse multi-tiered stakeholders in investigating, designing, and implementing robotics in aged care, emphasising the role of social behaviours and interactions for what we propose as functional social service robots.
Heterogeneity in Mathematical Disabilities: Investigating Cognitive Profiles and Reading Comorbidities among Children
Authors: Hasson Sonia , Ashkenazi Sarit
Published: August 2024

Mathematical performance requires quantitative understanding, linguistic comprehension, and working memory. While children with mathematical disorders may share similar traits, they differ in their specific difficulties. Studies have examined such differences, yet the current research is novel as it also examines reading abilities as a means for classifying mathematical difficulties. A total of 186 elementary-school children (grades 3–4) from seven schools in the north of Israel participated in this study, including 110 who were identified as having mathematical difficulties. Domain-specific skills, acquired mathematical skills, and domain-general skills were assessed. Clustering analysis was performed based on multiple domain-general variables (e.g., intelligence, processing speed, reading) and numerical factors (e.g., symbolic and non-symbolic comparisons). Additionally, a clinical diagnosis of the participants’ mathematical and reading difficulties were conducted prior to the clustering analysis. Five clusters were identified, including low mathematical fluency, mathematical gaps, no difficulties, inhibition difficulties, and low intelligence. The low fluency and low inhibition clusters also included children with reading difficulties. Interestingly, numerical factors only played a small role in determining the subtypes of mathematical difficulties, and only domain-general factors were found to differentiate between subtypes. These findings shed light on the heterogeneity of mathematical difficulties, which are mainly associated with non-specific factors, and highlight the connection between reading difficulties and some subtypes of mathematical difficulties. The findings from this study can be used to develop targeted interventions for children with math difficulties.
Integrating Molecular Analyses with the 2021 WHO Classification for a More Precise Diagnosis of Adult Pilocytic Astrocytomas
Authors: Moreno-Torres Beatriz , Manzano-Benito Irene , Cantero Diana , Romo Ángel , de Lope Ángel Rodríguez , Mollejo Manuela , Hernández-Laín Aurelio , Meléndez Bárbara
Published: August 2024

Pilocytic astrocytoma (PA) is a benign grade 1 glioma according to the World Health Organization (WHO). It is frequent in pediatric population, but very rare in adults, where it can be associated with worse prognosis. Molecular features of pediatric PA are associated with dysregulation of the MAPK pathway, most often showing BRAF alterations such as the KIAA1549::BRAF (K-B) fusion or the V600E mutation. Here we analyze the molecular characteristics of adult PA through gene-targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) and single gene tests (K-B fusion, and TERT promoter and FGFR1 hotspot mutations). In adults, the most frequent molecular alterations detected involved the MAPK pathway, namely affecting with BRAF and NF1 genes (16/29, 55%). Our study reveals that the prevalence of the K-B fusion (44.5%), is higher than what was reported in other adult PA series, probably due to technical difficulties in detecting the fusion. This molecular alteration was not associated with recurrence, but worse outcome was observed in patients with additional alterations, in particular oncogenic ATRX mutations. Furthermore, our results unveiled a subset of cases showing molecular alterations that raise differential diagnosis with other tumor types, thus demonstrating limitations of the current 2021 WHO classification in adult PA. In summary, our study suggests that PA in adults is a single-hit disease, as is the case in the pediatric population.
Mine Fire Emergency Path Planning Based on Imprroved Salpa Algorithm
Authors: QI Yun , YU Kaiwang , WANG Wei , CUI Xinchao , BAI Chenhao
Published: August 2024

To tackle the challenge of personnel evacuation following a mine fire, we propose an enhanced SSA (Scyphozoa Swarm Algorithm) simulation algorithm inspired by the intelligent behavior of marine organisms for personnel evacuation path planning. Our approach addresses the issues of local optimal solution trapping and slow convergence in the standard SSA algorithm by incorporating chaos optimization, differential evolution mutation, and non-uniform Gaussian mutation. We evaluate the performance of our improved SSA algorithm in path optimization through comparative testing with the standard SSA algorithm, particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm, and genetic algorithm (GA). Subsequently, we conduct grid-based path planning simulation experiments. Our findings demonstrate that our enhanced SSA algorithm excels in path optimization, achieving a 6% shorter optimal length compared to GA, an 11% improvement over PSO, and a 9% enhancement over the ant colony algorithm. Furthermore, in terms of path stability, our improved SSA algorithm outperforms GA by 75%, PSO by 89%, and the standard SSA algorithm by 83%. These results establish that our enhanced SSA algorithm surpasses other algorithms in obtaining the shortest and optimal paths.
Can the VAT Credit Refund Promote Corporate Innovation? Evidence from the National Tax Survey Data of China
Authors: Huang Zhenxiong , Yang Jingjing , Lai Mingyong
Published: August 2024

This study uses the value-added tax deduction and refund policy implemented in China in 2019 as a quasi-natural experiment, establishes a double-difference model, and empirically examines the impact of value-added tax deduction and refund policy on enterprise innovation. The benchmark regression shows that, on average, the value-added tax retention and refund policy increased the innovation capability of enterprises by approximately 20%. In terms of the mechanism of action, the research results indicate that value-added tax retention and refund policies promote enterprise innovation by enhancing the risk-taking ability of enterprises and reducing their awareness of economic policy uncertainty. Heterogeneity analysis found that the innovative incentive effect of value-added tax retention and refund policies is more evident in high-tech, manufacturing, private, and large- and medium-sized enterprises. This study provides policy recommendations to improve the pertinence and tax neutrality of value-added tax deduction and refund policies, construct a normalized mechanism for value-added tax deduction and refund policies, and improve the collaborative tax credit mechanism for enterprise financing and credit enhancement.
Understanding the Factors behind Non-Adherence to Pesticide Safety Guidelines among Smallholder Farmers in Fogera and Mecha Districts, Northwestern Ethiopia
Authors: Chekol Geteneh Mitku
Published: August 2024

Objective
The objective of the research was to identify key factors influencing smallholder farmers' why not follow the recommended pesticide safety practices in northwestern Ethiopia. The study conducted in 2020/2021 investigated factors influencing smallholder farmers' adherence to recommended pesticide safety practices in northwestern Ethiopia. The survey involving 50 farmers in Fogera and 53 in Mecha assessed pesticide use practices and perceptions, aiming to reveal common challenges in pesticide management. Survey data highlighted significant pesticide application and barriers related to adopting personal protective equipment (PPE), proper pesticide storage, integrated pest management (IPM), and safe disposal of containers.
Result
Statistical analyses indicated non-significant differences between districts regarding these practices, underscoring universal issues such as economic constraints, limited resource access, and inadequate awareness. Crops like maize, faba bean, and cabbage showed high pesticide usage rates in both districts without statistically significant differences, emphasizing their cumulative impact on food safety. This finding underscores the urgent need for comprehensive interventions. Measures such as subsidized PPE, infrastructure development for safe pesticide storage, enhanced educational campaigns, and strengthened regulatory frameworks are crucial to promote sustainable agricultural practices and mitigate health and environmental risks. In conclusion, the study identifies widespread barriers to effective pesticide management among smallholder farmers in Fogera and Mecha, including economic limitations and resource constraints. Addressing these challenges necessitates a multifaceted strategy that includes subsidized PPE, improved storage infrastructure, and intensified educational initiatives to foster sustainable practices and safeguard both human health and the environment.
Seroprevalence and risk factors of hepatitis B and C virus infections among street barbers and beauticians: a community-based study in the Eastern hemisphere of Ghana
Authors: Korang Felix Kwame , Adjei-Gyamfi Silas , Danso-Appiah Anthony , Kamiya Yasuhiko
Published: August 2024

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections remain a major public health concern across the globe. There is paucity of data on the seroprevalence of viral hepatitis among some high-risk and less-recognized populations in most developing countries like Ghana. This study was conducted to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors associated with HBV and HCV infections among street barbers and beauticians in the Eastern hemisphere of Ghana.Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted between April and June 2021 at five randomly selected district capitals in the Volta Region. Multistage sampling was employed to select 340 street barbers and beauticians. A structured questionnaire was used to elicit information from participants before collecting blood samples for the assessment of hepatitis B surface antigen and anti-hepatitis C virus. At a 95% significance level, bivariate and multivariate analyses were computed to identify associated factors of HBV and HCV using STATA version 17.0.Results: The overall seroprevalence of HBV and HCV among street barbers and beauticians was 9.7% (95% CI = 6.7–13.3%) and 4.7% (95% CI = 2.7–7.5%), respectively. Participants who had never been vaccinated against HBV (AOR = 9.65; 95% CI = 1.20–77.4; p = 0.033) or never married (AOR = 15.0; 95% CI = 3.34–67.4; p < 0.001) were more likely to be infected with HBV. Street barbers and beauticians who had no history of exposure to customers’ blood while performing their work were 93% less likely to contract HBV (AOR = 0.07; 95% CI = 0.02–0.33; p = 0.011). Participants who had a history of an injury via cut while attending to customers (AOR = 13.0; 95% CI = 2.84–59.6; p = 0.001) and those who were not married (AOR = 8.37; 95% CI = 1.05–66.9; p = 0.045) were also more likely to test positive for HCV.Conclusion: HBV and HCV infections are common among street barbers and beauticians in the Eastern hemisphere of Ghana. While the high prevalence of HBV was predicted by marital status and history of HBV vaccination and blood exposures, that of HCV was also determined by marital status and history of cut injury. Explicit guidelines on the health practices of study participants through the creation of awareness on the modes of transmission and prevention of occupation-related viral infections as well as HBV vaccination programs should be provided for these high-risk workers.
Effects of urban green space habitats and tree species on ectomycorrhizal fungal diversity
Authors: Lin Qian-Cai , Cen Ying-Qing , Xu Ming , Jiang Dan-Dan , Zhang Jian
Published: August 2024

Ectomycorrhizal fungi (EMF) are key symbiotic microbial components for the growth and health of trees in urban greenspace habitats (UGSHs). However, the current understanding of EMF diversity in UGSHs remains poor. Therefore, in this study, using morphological classification and molecular identification, we aimed to investigate EMF diversity in three EMF host plants: Cedrus deodara in the road green belt, and C. deodara, Pinus massoniana, and Salix babylonica in the park road green belt, in Guiyang, China. A total of 62 EMF operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were identified, including 13 EMF OTUs in the C. deodara road green belt, and 23, 31, and 9 EMF OTUs in the park green belts. C. deodara, P. massoniana, and S. babylonica were respectively identified in park green belts. Ascomycota and Basidiomycota were the dominant phyla in the EMF communities in road and park green habitat, respectively. The Shannon and Simpson indices of the C. deodara EMF community in the park green belt were higher than those in the road green belt. EMF diversity of the tree species in the park green belt was P. massoniana > C. deodara > S. babylonica. Differences in EMF community diversity was observed among the different greening tree species in the UGSHs. UGSHs with different disturbance gradients had a significant impact on the EMF diversity of the same greening tree species. These results can be used as a scientific reference for optimizing the design and scientific management of UGSHs.
Demographic and Lifestyle Factors Affecting BMI and Weight Satisfaction of physicians in Babylon province: Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kadhem Qais Ismaeel , ABBAS IHAB ABDULAMEER , Hussain Nibras Alaa
Published: August 2024

Background
Rising worldwide health issue obesity is typified by an excessive body fat buildup endangering health. Over the past few decades, the incidence of obesity has sharply risen, which has resulted in an increase in related health issues like type 2 diabetes, heart illnesses, and certain malignancies.
Objective
examines demographic, socioeconomic, and lifestyle factors affecting obesity among medical professionals, analyses medical field data to identify obesity reasons and provide realistic weight control and obesity prevention strategies.
Method
January–June 2024 cross sectional survey of 200 Babylon physicians. Stratified random selection ensured a balanced mix of demographic and socioeconomic traits throughout data collection.
Results
Of the physician replies, most were female (53%), urbanites (96%), aged 36–45 (43%), and 46–55 (32%), With 78% inactivity, most responders—medical (59.5%)—had private clinics (72%) and Age, private employment, and weight satisfaction were linked to BMI; 74% of respondents were overweight or obese. Though they tried to lose weight, 56.5% of them were dissatisfied with it.
Conclusion
Doctors are becoming overweight and obese, and BMI is closely connected with age, private work, and weight satisfaction. Doctors are often unhappy with their weight, suggesting weight control concerns. Low physical activity may be linked to work overload. Exercise and lifestyle improvements for doctors are desperately needed. Patient care providers' health will improve by addressing these challenges.
Electric vehicle path optimization research based on charging and switching methods under V2G
Authors: Liu Haoran , Zhang Aobei
Published: August 2024

This paper presents a novel approach to advancing sustainable urban logistics and distribution, focusing on fast charging and power exchange modes as the core research objects. Our key contribution lies in the development of an electric vehicle path optimization model, wherein the primary objective is total cost minimization. Additionally, we leverage V2G technology to enable slow charging and discharging management of electric vehicles upon their return to the distribution center. Furthermore, we introduce a robust calculation method for estimating battery loss costs, taking into account ambient temperature and discharge depth. The logistics distribution model is effectively solved using a genetic algorithm, incorporating both charging modes under the V2G framework. The simulation results demonstrate that our V2G model significantly enhances the operational flexibility of electric vehicle logistics distribution, leading to a substantial reduction in distribution costs. Moreover, it effectively balances peak and valley loads within the distribution system. In this study, we conduct an in-depth analysis of the charging and swapping mode model through experimental comparisons, offering valuable insights to aid decision-making in the logistics sector regarding charging and swapping strategies. Additionally, we investigate the impact of slow charging and discharging management on the distribution system. Furthermore, we perform a comprehensive sensitivity analysis to explore factors influencing battery loss in electric vehicles. Notably, we find a direct correlation between higher temperatures and deeper discharge depths with increased battery loss. Our research introduces a cutting-edge solution to optimize urban logistics, significantly contributing to sustainable development. The proposed model provides critical implications for the logistics industry, driving efficient and eco-friendly practices in electric vehicle distribution.
Crystal growth, structural phase transitions and optical gap evolution of FAPb(Br1-xClx)3 hybrid perovskites (FA: formamidinium ion, CH(NH2)2+)
Authors: López Carlos A. , Fabelo Oscar , Abia Carmen , Fernández-Diaz María T. , Alonso José Antonio
Published: August 2024

Chemically tuned organic-inorganic hybrid halide perovskites based on bromide and chloride anions CH(NH2)2Pb(Br1 − xClx)3 (CH(NH2)2+: formamidinium ion, FA) have been crystallized and investigated by neutron powder diffraction (NPD), single crystal X-ray diffraction (SCXRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and UV-vis spectroscopy. CH(NH2)2PbBr3 and CH(NH2)2PbCl3 experience successive phase transitions upon cooling, lowering the symmetry from cubic to orthorhombic phases; however, these transitions are suppressed for the mixed halide phases, probably due to compositional disorder. The band-gap engineering brought about by the chemical doping of CH(NH2)2Pb(Br1 − xClx)3 perovskites (x = 0.0, 0.33, 0.5, 0.66 and 1.0) can be controllably tuned: the gap progressively increases with the concentration of Cl− ions from 2.17 to 2.91 eV at room temperature, presenting a nonlinear behavior. This study provides an improved understanding of the structural and optical properties of these appealing hybrid perovskites.
Landslide susceptibility assessment using hybrid integration of best-first decision tree and machine learning ensembles
Authors: Wang Jianguo , Li Weipeng , Li Linhai , Fan Yuchao
Published: August 2024

During the study, we investigate and compare spatial prediction result of landslide hazards with a relative less-used model BFT (Best-first Decision Tree) and its three integrated models RSBFT (RandomSubspace ensemble based BFTree), MBBFT (MultiBoost ensemble based BFT), BABFT (Bagging ensemble based BFT) in Meixian County, Baoji city, Shaanxi province, China. BFTree is a machine learning technique by optimizing split nodes of standard decision tree. Integrated learning is an excellent method by combining several weakly supervised models into a strong supervised model. For data preparation, 87 historical landslide events as landslide inven-tory map and 16 landslide conditioning factors as spatial database have been collected and organized in the study area. At last, the FR (frequency ratio) method was applied for the correlation analysis and CAE (correla-tion attribute evaluation) method was applied for analyzing contribution value of each factor. For the model studies, landslide susceptibility indexes would be possible to measure using BFT, BABFT, MBBFT, RSBFT models and prepared data. Then, four landslide susceptibility maps are generated. At last, randomly assigned 61 (70%) landslides locations has been used to build the landslide models. The other 26 (30%) landslide loca-tions were used to validate. The result of verification shows that three ensemble models have boosted the pre-dictive ability of the base model; MBBFT have better prediction ability than others; RSBFT model has no overfitting problems.
An Investigation of the Fair Play Understanding of the Leading Personnel Participating in Physical Education and Sports Activities in the Military System
Authors: GÜNEŞ Ejder
Published: August 2024

Background: This study aims to investigate the fair play understanding of the leading personnel participating in physical education and sports activities in the military system. There is no detailed examination in the literature on the fair play understanding of military leaders within the Turkish Armed Forces and their contribution to sports activities. The study was conducted on 257 officers, non-commissioned officers, and specialist sergeants in the Presidential Guard Regiment Command. The "Multidimensional Sportspersonship Orientation Scale" was used to measure the sportspersonship understanding of the personnel and to evaluate it in a correlational way with demographic data.
Methods: In this study, which aims to investigate and interpret the fair play understanding of the leading personnel participating in physical education and sports activities in the military system, the "Correlational Research" model from the quantitative research model was used. The population of the study consists of officers, non-commissioned officers, and specialist sergeants who are in charge of the military personnel within the Presidential Guard Regiment Command. The sample of the study consists of 257 leading military personnel randomly selected from the study population. The data were collected through online forms on 08.02.2024. The scale used consists of 5 sub-dimensions and 20 items in total, known as the "Multidimensional Sportspersonship Orientation Scale."
Results: The study results revealed that the fair play and sportspersonship understandings of military personnel are lower than those of civilians. In the military system, factors such as stress and the struggle for survival, especially on battlefields, may conflict with the concept of sportspersonship. Leading personnel, who are usually raised with a warrior mentality, often prioritize sportspersonship values as secondary. These low sportspersonship values call into question the importance of fair play and sportspersonship behaviors within the military system.
Conclusion: This study is an important step to understanding the ability of military leaders to balance between ethical and sporting values. The findings highlight the necessity of developing fair play understanding within the military system. This study contributes empirical data to the literature on the understanding of fair play in the military system and helps fill the gap in this field. Future studies in other military branches should be considered to generalize these findings.
Predicting NGL Recovery from Flared Gas Using Nonlinear Multiple Regression and Artificial Neural Network Model
Authors: Asal M. Abdelraof , Gomaa Sayed , Aboul-Fetouh Mostafa E. , Aboul‑Fotouh Tarek M.
Published: August 2024

Recovery of natural gas liquid (NGL) from flared gas is considered one of the techniques of emissions reduction, the recovered quantity depends on several factors including the natural gas composition, operating pressure, and temperature. Process simulation is required to measure the recovery of NGL from the flared gas, and process simulation cases are required to predict the NGL productivity, these cases should be generated at several operating conditions for optimization purposes. In this paper, 12873 data sets are generated using Aspen HYSYS for different natural gas compositions collected from 11 natural gas fields. These huge data sets are used to develop an artificial neural network (ANN) model for predicting the NGL recovery. The developed model was trained based on 70% of the data sets, validated based on 15%, and tested using 15 % of all the data sets. The results show that the developed NN model can accurately the NGL recovery based on the natural gas composition, and the operating pressure and temperature with a coefficient of determination of 0.9999 and an absolute average error of 4%.
The proposed model for estimating NGL production rates is a feasible environmental issue. The availability of changing the operating pressure and temperature could help in selecting the proper equipment such as recovery compressors and refrigeration unit size. This approach also could allow production companies to join the project quickly, eliminate carbon dioxide emissions, and start to gain money in a short time.
COVID-19 Vaccination Outreach to Vulnerable and Remote Communities in Bihar, India: Lessons from an Assessment of an Innovative Program
Authors: Thakur Putul , Akhauri Santosh , Pradhan Narottam , Jha Rakesh Kumar , Singh Sanjay Kumar , Sinha Narendra Kumar , Kumar Mani , Singh Anubhuti , Swati Swati , Mondal Sudipta
Published: August 2024

Background and objectives
During the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, equitable delivery of COVID-19 vaccines was one of the major challenges in policymaking. In search of innovative solutions, Project Concern International (PCI), with support from the Packard Foundation and the Government of Bihar developed and tested a human centric design to vaccinate the populations in disadvantaged geographies and from vulnerable subgroups. This study aims to examine the association of the intervention on improving vaccination coverage in the project area as well as across various population subgroups.
Data and Methods
The study is based on a quasi-experimental design with intervention and comparison arms comprising of 100 villages each. Data on COVID-19 vaccination coverage and other socioeconomic correlates was collected through cross-sectional household survey in July 2022. The survey covered five randomly selected intervention districts (Arwal, Kaimur, Katihar, Madhepura and Jamai). Descriptive statistical analysis, logistic regression, and propensity score matching (PSM) techniques with diagnostic checks are applied to discern the association of the project intervention on COVID-19 vaccination coverage.
Results
There was a significant improvement in vaccine uptake of two or more doses of vaccine in the intervention arm (intervention-83%, comparison-74%). 56% of pregnant women, 82% of the people suffering from critical illness and 82% of the differently abled people received two or more doses in the intervention arm. Women, educated individuals, and those with access to mobile had higher likelihood of vaccine coverage. The PSM analysis confirms that the intervention area had about 10%-point higher coverage of COVID-19 vaccination then the comparison area.
Conclusion
The RECOVER Bihar intervention was significantly associated with increased uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine among all categories of beneficiaries, including vulnerable categories. The learnings from the program design can be adopted in other programs to reach hard-to-reach and vulnerable populations. This will help to increase access to vaccination among vulnerable communities in various low-income and resource-poor settings.
Effects of Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide on the behavior of human dental pulp stem cells in vitro and their inflammation-related transcriptomics profile
Authors: He Fei , Zhu Jingya , Zeng Xiangni , Huang Rihong
Published: August 2024

Objective: This study aims to investigate the effects of Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide (P. g LPS) on the migration, proliferation, and odontoblast differentiation of human dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) in vitro, and to explore the transcriptomics related to LPS-induced inflammation.
Methods: Human DPSCs were cultured and treated with 0.5-2 µg/mL of LPS for 24, 48, and 72 h, respectively. The expression of Arg-1, IL-1β, and TNF-α in DPSCs and cell viability was assessed. The time and concentration of LPS with the least influence on cell growth were selected to establish an in vitro pulpitis model. The CCK8 assay and Transwell method were used to detect the influence of LPS on cell proliferation and migration. LPS-stimulated DPSCs were induced to differentiate into odontoblasts, and the effect of LPS on cell differentiation was analyzed. RNA-Seq analysis was performed to investigate the transcriptomics profile related to LPS inflammation
Results: Based on the results of cell viability and expression of inflammatory factors, DPSCs pre-treated with 1µg/mL of LPS for 24 hours were utilized as the in vitropulpitis model in this study. Under these conditions, the migration and cell proliferation rate of DPSCs were significantly suppressed (P<0.01). Following induction by odontoblast differentiation medium for 21 days, the expression of odontoblast marker genes (DSPP, DMP1, and RUNX2) and alkaline phosphatase in LPS-stimulated cells was significantly inhibited (P<0.01), and the number of calcium staining-positive cell nodules reduced significantly compared to that in the control group. Transcriptomic analysis revealed enrichment of the TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway and NOD-like receptor signaling pathway under LPS stimulation; KEGG analysis showed enrichment of PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, chemokine action pathway, TNF, NF-kappaB signaling pathway in DPSCs under inflammatory conditions.
Conclusions: DPSCs have the capacity to secrete inflammatory cytokines and contribute to tissue inflammatory reactions. Under inflammatory conditions in this study, their migration, proliferation, and differentiation abilities are inhibited. LPS participates in the regulation of cell signaling networks through multiple mechanisms.
Clinical significance: This study suggests that DPSCs may still maintain their proliferation and differentiation capabilities under severe inflammation in clinical practice. Therefore, controlling inflammation and enhancing the biological properties of stem cells are important strategies for promoting the healing of dental pulp.
Potential role of multiwalled carbon nanotube priming in boosting nitrogen metabolism and nutritional value during the sprouting process
Authors: Khaled Yasmen , Hegab Momtaz M. , Okla Mohammad K. , AlGarawi Amal Mohamed , Tawfik Wael Z. , AbdElgayed Gehad , Sayed Mona
Published: August 2024

Sprouts are well known for having a remarkable nutritional profile. Enhancing the tissue chemical composition and quality of sprouts is essential since these metabolites offer numerous health advantages. To this end, this study aimed to investigate the effects of priming with multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) on the growth and nitrogen metabolism of four horticultural plants, namely T. foenum graecum, L. grandifloruum, L. sativum, and A. gravelones. The properties of our synthesized MWCNTs included three characteristic peaks 3434, 1539, and 1068 cm− 1 attributable to the stretching vibration of O–H, bending vibration, and C − O, respectively. MWCNT priming increased the sprouting process by inducing biomass and protein accumulation. MWCNT priming improved nitrogen metabolism, including amino acid and polyamine metabolism. At the amino acids level, there was an increase in amino acids levels (e.g., glycine, lysine, asparagine, and glutamic acid) as well as their metabolic enzyme activity including glutamine synthetase (GS), threonine synthase (TS), and glutamate synthase (GOGAT). Increased polyamine levels like spermine, putrescine, and spermidine were also associated with boosting their related biosynthetic enzyme activities i.e., arginine decarboxylase (ADC), ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), spermidine synthase, and spermine synthase. This improvement of nitrogen metabolic pathways highlights the potential of MWCNT to boost the tissue chemical composition of horticultural plants.