bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Road rage: impacts of a major highway on wildlife in India’s largest tiger reserve
Authors: Aditya Vikram , Pasul Yogesh , Ghosh Deyatima
Published: October 2023

Roads passing through protected areas are a major barrier to wildlife movement, their spatiotemporal activity patterns, species interactions and habitat use. Roads can thus impact larger ecological processes, with long term consequences for ecosystems. Varying intensities of traffic movement at different hours of the day can varyingly impact mammal occurrence and consequently, influence animal behaviour with long term implications for human-wildlife conflicts. Altered mammal activity in many instances leads to increased mortalities for both humans and wildlife. Here, we assess the impact of vehicular traffic on mammal occurrence, density, and richness in the Nagarjunasagar Srisailam Tiger Reserve (NSTR), India’s largest Tiger Reserve situated in the Nallamala ranges of the central Eastern Ghats of Andhra Pradesh. We used camera traps placed along a National Highway (NH 765) and a relatively undisturbed forest trail (PT) inside the forest to assess the impact of the NH on mammals. We recorded 16 species of mammals using the NH and the surrounding habitat, including endangered and threatened species such as Tiger, Leopard, Sambar, and Dhole. Carnivore richness was significantly higher on the PT than on the NH, and away from the NH than on it. Overall, mammal density was higher on the NH, largely due to higher abundance of herbivores. This study provides the first insights into the impacts of roads on the density and richness of mammals inside a tiger reserve in the largely neglected Eastern Ghats. Our work generates baseline information on the kind of impacts that road building and widening projects, an increasing threat to protected areas globally, can have on mammals.
Turbulent, Rossby, rogue and explosive nonlinear waves in plasma at Titan’ s ionosphere
Authors: Alharthi N. S. , Tolba R. E. , Moslem W.M.
Published: October 2023

A nonlinear theory of rogue, rossby and explosive structures is discussed in the ionosphere of Titan. A potential role of the solar wind interaction with the upper Titan’s ionosphere is examined. We used a hydrodynamic ‡uid approach for the plasma ions in the upper ionosphere of Titan, combining with the solar wind electrons and protons. A bilinear method is applied to solve the evolution equation analytically, as well as a numerical analysis is performed to examine the characteristics of the plasma electric potential. It is found that the phase velocity of the propagating wave is only subsonic. Furthermore, there is a small window of phase velocity that the waves cannot propagate. Increasing the solar wind proton number density and solar wind electron temperature concentrate a reasonable amount of energy that lead to enhance the pulses amplitude. However, the solar wind electron number density sucks the energy from the plasma leading to make the pulses amplitude dwarf. The solar wind proton temperatureand streaming velocity have not a remarkable feature on the pulses pro le.
Intestinal persistence of Bifidobacterium infantis is determined by interaction of host genetics and antibiotic exposure
Authors: Wang Yiming , Choo Jocelyn M , Richard Alyson C , Papanicolas Lito E , Wesselingh Steve L , Taylor Steven L , Rogers Geraint B
Published: October 2023

Background
Probiotics have gained significant attention as a potential strategy to improve health by modulating host-microbe interactions, particularly in situations where the normal microbiota has been disrupted. However, evidence regarding their efficacy has been inconsistent, with considerable inter-individual variability in response. We aimed to explore whether a common genetic variant that affects the production of mucosal α(1, 2)-fucosylated glycans, present in around 20% of the population, could explain the observed interpersonal differences in the persistence of commonly used probiotics.
Methods
A mouse model in which littermates varied in their ability to secrete α(1, 2)-fucosylated glycans (Fut2WT or Fut2KO) was utilised to explore the abundance and persistence of three common strains of probiotic Bifidobacterium species (infantis, breve and bifidum). Fut2WT and Fut2KO mice were gavaged daily for 5 days with either B. infantis, B. breve or B. bifidum, following either antibiotic pre-exposure or no antibiotic exposure. Stool and intestinal tissue were collected at defined periods throughout, and microbiota composition and bifidobacterial levels assessed. In vitro growth assays were performed on stool using media either supplemented with or without 2'-fucosyllactose.
Results
We observed significant differences in baseline gut microbiota characteristics between Fut2WT and Fut2KO littermates, with Fut2WT mice exhibiting enrichment of species able to utilise α(1, 2)-fucosylated glycans. Following antibiotic exposure, only Fut2WT animals showed persistent engraftment of Bifidobacterium infantis, a strain able to internalise α(1, 2)-fucosylated glycans, while B. breve and B. bifidum, which cannot internalise α(1, 2)-fucosylated glycans, did not exhibit this difference. In mice with an intact commensal microbiota, the relationship between secretor status and B. infantis persistence was reversed, with Fut2KO animals showing greater persistence compared to Fut2WT.
Conclusions
Our findings suggest that the interplay between a common genetic variation and antibiotic exposure plays a crucial role in determining the dynamics of B. infantis in the recipient gut, which could potentially contribute to the observed variation in response to this commonly used probiotic species.
DREXUNET: A novel Deep CNN Algorithm for drusen and exudates classification on fundus images
Authors: C Arunavinodhini , S Sabena
Published: October 2023

Glaucoma is a deadly illness that affects individuals globally and can lead to loss of vision, particularly in those over 40 to 60 years old, following cataracts. Timely treatment can be facilitated through early detection of diabetic retinopathy, which requires significant investment in screening programs, particularly automated ones. Identifying exudates is crucial for prompt diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy. Deep neural networks, a promising machine learning approach, have demonstrated remarkable success in various computer vision issues. This paper presents a novel convolutional neural network, DREXUNET, to classify drusen, exudate and normal regions in eye fundus images. DREXUNET focuses on reducing the overfitting based on the input data set size, reducing the Batch loss and validation loss, and reducing the number of exponentially growing computation and time. The proposed model has been tested and validated in two different datasets of different sizes. The proposed model has been compared with pretrained models such as Alexnet, Googlenet, Densenet, VGG16 and Squeezenet. The outcome demonstrates that the drexunet model proposed surpasses pretrained models with a 97.50\% precision, 98.22\% recall, 98.54\% F1 score, 90.79\% sensitivity, 91.21\% specificity, and a 0.0779 loss.
EuCARE-HOSPITALISED Study Protocol: A Cohort Study of Patients Hospitalised with COVID-19 in the EuCARE Project
Authors: Hedberg Pontus , Varisco Benedetta , Bai Francesca , Sönnerborg Anders , Naucler Pontus , Pfeifer Nico , Cozzi-Lepri Alessandro , Ceccherini-Silberstein Francesca , Naumovas Daniel , Drobniewski Francis , Jensen Björn-Erik Ole , Toscano Cristina , Parczewski Miłosz , Quintanares Gibran Horemheb Rubio , Mwau Matilu , Pinto Jorge A. , Incardona Francesca , Mommo Chiara , Marchetti Giulia
Published: October 2023

Background.
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS CoV-2), the virus responsible for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), can lead to hospitalisation, particularly in elderly, immunocompromised, and non-vaccinated or partially vaccinated individuals. Although vaccination provides protection, the duration of this protection wanes over time. Additional doses can restore immunity, but the influence of viral variants, specific sequences, and vaccine-induced immune responses on disease severity remains unclear. Moreover, the efficacy of therapeutic interventions during hospitalisation requires further investigation. The study aims to analyse the clinical course of COVID-19 in hospitalised patients, taking into account SARS-CoV-2 variants, viral sequences, and the impact of different vaccines. The primary outcome is all-cause in-hospital mortality, while secondary outcomes include admission to intensive care unit and length of stay, duration of hospitalisation, and the level of respiratory support required.
Methods.
This ongoing multicentre study observes hospitalised adult patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection, utilising a combination of retrospective and prospective data collection. It aims to gather clinical and laboratory variables from around 35,000 patients, with potential for a larger sample size. Data analysis will involve biostatistical and machine-learning techniques. Selected patients will provide biological material. The study started on October 14, 2021 and is scheduled to end on October 13, 2026.
Discussion.
The analysis of a large sample of retrospective and prospective data about the acute phase of SARS CoV-2 infection in hospitalised patients, viral variants and vaccination in several European and non-European countries will help us to better understand risk factors for disease severity and the interplay between SARS CoV-2 variants, immune responses and vaccine efficacy. The main strengths of this study are the large sample size, the long study duration covering different waves of COVID-19 and the collection of biological samples that allows future research.
Registration
. The trial has been registered on ClinicalTrials.gov. The unique identifier assigned to this trial is NCT05463380.
Midwifery students' and obstetricians' perception of training in non-technical skills
Authors: Fregonese Coralie , Guerby Paul , Vallade Gilles , Fuzier Régis
Published: October 2023

Purpose: Training in non-technical skills is increasingly recommended in the health sector. We set up an original training course, for student midwives and obstetricians, in which successful performance depended on the acquisition of non-technical skills. The main objective was to find out how they perceived the training and to investigate whether their position changed after it by analysing their social representations.
Materials and methods: The simulation session consisted of a flight in a simulator. A questionnaire was given to participants before the session (T1), after it (T2) and later (T3). It included a stress scale, a free association task, and open-ended questions about the training. We used the Descending Hierarchical Classification method to highlight groups of individuals who tended to answer the questionnaire in the same way.
Results: A total of 46 people participated in the experiment. The dynamics of the similarity analyses showed changes in emphasis according to the different times: at T1: team, plane, simulation; at T2: communication, team, stress; and at T3: team, communication, simulation, tunnelling.
Conclusions: Participants expressed their professionalization by the acquisition of technical vocabulary, as well as by using a semantic register pertaining to teamwork and thinking about actions undertaken.
Systematic Hierarchical Analysis of Requirements for Critical Systems
Authors: Fathabadi Asieh Salehi , Snook Colin , Dghaym Dana , Hoang Thai Son , Alotaibi Fahad , Butler Michael
Published: October 2023

Safety and security are key considerations in the design of critical systems. Requirements analysis methods rely on the expertise and experience of human intervention to make critical judgements. While human judgement is essential to an analysis method, it is also important to ensure a degree of formality so that we \textit{reason about} safety and security at early stages of analysis and design, rather than detect problems later. In this paper we present a hierarchical and incremental analysis process that aims to justify the design and flow-down of derived critical requirements arising from safety hazards and security vulnerabilities identified at the system level. The safety and security analysis at each level uses STPA-style action analysis to identify hazards and vulnerabilities. At each level, we verify that the design achieves the safety or security requirements by backing the analysis with formal modelling and proof using Event-B refinement. The formal model helps to identify hazards/vulnerabilities arising from the design and how they relate to the safety accidents/security losses being considered at this level. We then re-apply the same process to each component of the design in a hierarchical manner. Thus we use hazard and vulnerability analysis, together with refinement based formal modelling and verification, to drive the design, replacing the system level requirements with component requirements. In doing so, we decompose critical system-level requirements down to component-level requirements, transforming them from abstract system level requirements, towards concrete solutions that we can implement correctly so that the hazards/vulnerabilities are mitigated.
Management and research efforts are failing dolphins, porpoises and other toothed whales
Authors: Temple Andrew J. , Langner Ute , Berumen Michael L.
Published: October 2023

Despite being subject to intensive research and public interest populations of dolphins, porpoises, and other toothed whales continue to decline, and several species are on the verge of extinction. We examine small cetacean status, human activities driving extinction risk, and whether research efforts are addressing priority threats. We estimate that one-sixth of small cetaceans are threatened with extinction, with little improvement in nearly thirty years. Fisheries and coastal habitat degradation are the main predictors of extinction risk. Contrary to popular belief, we show that the causal impact of small-scale fisheries on extinction risk is greater than from large-scale fisheries. Fisheries management strength had little influence on extinction risk, suggesting that existing measures are ineffective. Alarmingly, we find research efforts for priority threats to be vastly underrepresented and so a major shift in research focus is required. Small cetaceans are among the “low hanging fruit” of marine conservation; continued failure to halt their decline bodes poorly for tackling marine biodiversity loss and avoiding an Anthropocene mass extinction.
The Relationship Between Dietary Flavonoid Intake and Hypertension: A Cross-Sectional Study from NHANES
Authors: Niu Yue-yue , Aierken Aikeremu , Feng Ling
Published: October 2023

Background: This study aims to explore the relationship between dietary flavonoid intake and hypertension in American adults through a nationally representative sample.
Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted, including 9,123 individuals from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and the Food and Nutrient Database for Dietary Studies (FNDDS), covering data from 2007-2011 and 2017-2018. Flavonoid intake was measured using a two-day dietary recall questionnaire. Multivariate logistic regression, stratified analysis, and restricted cubic splines (RCS) were employed to assess the potential association between flavonoid consumption and hypertension, with adjustments for possible confounding variables.
Results: The study found a significant negative correlation between dietary intake of total flavonoids, flavanones, anthocyanins, and flavan-3-ols and hypertension. Statistically significant nonlinear relationships were observed for flavanones, flavan-3-ols, flavonols, and total flavonoids with hypertension, with significant p-nonlinear values of 7E-04, 0.02, 2E-04, and 0, respectively. Subgroup analysis revealed that the relationship between total flavonoid intake and hypertension is complex and influenced by glucose tolerance and hyperlipidemia. It showed different trends, with an increased risk of hypertension in individuals with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and a potential reduction in hypertension risk in those without hyperlipidemia.
Conclusion: This study emphasizes the potential positive role of flavonoid compounds in the prevention and management of hypertension in American adults, suggesting that moderate flavonoid intake may be more beneficial for health. These findings offer new hope and strategic support for the maintenance of cardiovascular health.
Impact of the gut microbiota and associated metabolites on primary open angle glaucoma
Authors: He Meihui , Chen Xingyi , Fan Zhihua , Xia Xiaobo
Published: October 2023

Background
Recent studies had explored that gut microbiota (GM) was associated with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) through the gut-eye axis, among which metabolic pathways played an important role. However, the underlying biological mechanism has not been fully understood. This study aims to reveal the causal effect of GM, gut-derived metabolites on POAG susceptibility.
Methods
Mendelian Randomization (MR) analysis was performed to estimate the causality of GM and metabolites on POAG. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of 196 GM taxa and 10 metabolites were used as the exposure, whereas summary data for POAG were obtained from the largest publicly available meta-analyses involving 16,677 POAG cases and 199,580 controls of European descent. Inverse-variance-weighted (IVW) method was the main MR analysis, MR-PRESSO, Cochran Q test and MR Egger were used for sensitivity analysis.
Results
In this MR analysis, a total of 196 causative associations between GM taxa and POAG were observed. We identified 21 causal relationships between genetic liability in the GM and POAG after sensitivity analysis. Additionally, our study also revealed suggestive associations between 7 gut microbiome-dependent metabolites (e.g., serine, isoleucine, glycine and creatine) and POAG.
Conclusion
These data for the first time provided evidence of potential causal links between GM and POAG. Metabolites involved in amino acids and bile acids metabolism may play an important role in gut microbiota-host crosstalk in POAG and may serve as useful biomarkers for POAG screening. Our findings may contribute to identifying potentially effective early intervention of POAG by targeting the microbiota.
Generation of optical vortices by flat-topped beam diffracted with a radial phase shift spiral zone plate
Authors: Nossir N. , Dalil-Essakali L. , Belafhal A.
Published: October 2023

In this work, we investigate the generation of optical vortices by means of the so-called radial-phase shift spiral zone plate (RSSZP) from a flat-topped beam (FTB). Based on the process of the extended Huygens-Fresnel integral, an analytical formulation of the field distribution for the generated beam is developed. The evolution of the intensity distribution of the diffracted beam is numerically illustrated by studying the effects of some parameters. Moreover, it is established that the characteristics of the intensity of the generated beam is increased with the beam waist, on the contrary, this intensity is decreased by the augmentation of the beam order N. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that in the case of the topological charge equal to zero. The behavior of the beam is converted into a fundamental Gaussian. However, it is found that, for the topological charge superior to zero we have a vortex beam. In addition, it can be noted that the increase of the beam order leads the dark part size becomes large. In addition, as the shifting parameter is increased, the lobes appear larger. Finally, this research may be useful in different applications such as in optical switches and micromanipulation.
Robust multiferroic in interfacial modulation synthesized wafer-scale one-unit-cell of chromium sulfide
Authors: Shi Jianping , Song Luying , Zhao Ying , Xu Bingqian , Du Ruofan , Li Hui , Feng Wang , Yang Junbo , Li Xiaohui , Liu Zijia , Wen Xia , Peng Yanan , Wang Yuzhu , Sun Hang , Huang Ling , Jiang Yulin , Cai Yao , Jiang Xue , He Jun
Published: October 2023

Multiferroic materials offer a promising avenue for manipulating digital information by leveraging the cross-coupling between ferroelectric and ferromagnetic orders. Despite the ferroelectricity has been uncovered by ion displacement or interlayer-sliding, one-unit-cell of multiferroic materials design and wafer-scale synthesis have yet to be realized. Here we develope a interface modulated strategy to grow 1-inch one-unit-cell of non-layered chromium sulfide with unidirectional orientation on industry-compatible c-plane sapphire. The strong interfacial interaction between chromium sulfide and substrate induces the intralayer-sliding of self-intercalated chromium atoms and breaks the space reversal symmetry. As a result, robust room-temperature ferroelectricity (retaining more than one month) emerges in one-unit-cell of chromium sulfide with ultrahigh remanent polarization. Besides, long-range ferromagnetic order is discovered with the Curie temperature approaching 200 K, almost two times higher than that of bulk counterpart. In parallel, the robust magnetoelectric coupling is certified and which makes 1-inch one-unit-cell of chromium sulfide the largest and thinnest multiferroics.
Optimizing of Induction Based Wind Energy Conversion System with EDLC and PMSG for Efficient Power Control
Authors: Jim Md.Tanvir Rahman , Alam Nazimuddin
Published: October 2023

In the quest for sustainable and efficient energy conversion systems, this paper presents a comprehensive study on the optimization of an Induction Wind Energy Conversion System (IWEC) integrated with Electric Double Layer Capacitors (EDLCs) and a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator (PMSG) to achieve superior power control. Wind energy represents a crucial component of the renewable energy landscape, and enhancing its conversion efficiency is pivotal for a sustainable future. In this work, we delve into the intricate details of the IWEC-EDLC-PMSG system, employing advanced control strategies and optimization techniques to maximize its performance. Through extensive simulations and experimentation, we demonstrate the significant advantages of this integrated system, including improved power quality, enhanced transient response, and enhanced grid integration capabilities. The results reveal that the proposed IWEC-EDLC-PMSG configuration outperforms conventional wind energy conversion systems in terms of efficiency, grid compatibility, and dynamic response. Furthermore, we address critical aspects such as system stability, fault tolerance, and reliability, ensuring the robustness of this innovative solution. This research not only contributes to the advancement of wind energy technology but also offers valuable insights into the integration of energy storage systems and advanced control techniques for efficient power control in renewable energy applications.
Nothing is impossible: a 110-year-old patient recovered smoothly after partial hepatectomy — a case report
Authors: Yi Xiao-Kang , Wang An-Kang , Yao Jing , Li Qiu-Xi , Wen Jian
Published: October 2023

Background
The population of centenarians is increasing, and the medical demand of it will also increase. Surgery for centenarians is a considerable challenge for patients and doctors.
Case Presentation
A 110 year-old woman presented with a history of epigastric pain for 1 month. The abdominal contrast-enhanced CT showed a visible lump with unclear boundaries in the left lateral lobe of liver, about 6*7cm in size. She underwent the open partial hepatectomy and lymph node dissection within 2 hours and 11 minutes. Histopathological examination revealed Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma, stage T2aN0M0. No tumor recurrence was found during the 11 months follow-up.
Conclusion
To our best knowledge, this woman should be the first case in the world to have had a partial hepatectomy in centenarians. The patient recovered smoothly after surgery. We all know that the main challenge faced by centenarians is the vulnerable bodies are lack of physiological reserve but not the surgery itself. For centenarians, preoperative evaluation, medical optimization, anesthesia management, expeditious surgery, coordinated multidisciplinary and careful perioperative nursing are paramount.
The sensitivity and specificity testes for diagnosis of Rheumatoid arthritis/ Jordan
Authors: Faris Nawal S.
Published: October 2023

Background: Prognosis, treatment, and even early detection of rheumatoid arthritis may all be effectively tracked. Serological tests may be used to validate clinically suspected preliminary diagnoses of rheumatic disorders, track the effectiveness of treatment, and predict the prognosis of autoimmune diseases. for CRP, anti-citrullinated peptide antibodies, anti-streptolysine O, acute phase proteins, rheumatoid factor, and CRP
Aims of the study: focused on diagnostic designs that tested the sensitivity and specificity of diagnoses.such as ANA, ACCP, ASO, and CRP Laboratory Tests of Rheumatoid arthritis
Methods: ELIZA tests were used to refer 79 individuals to the Immunology department, specifically the rheumatic ward.
Statistical test: Statically analysis: was carried out using ANOVA.
Results: Most patients with RA tested positive for anti-CCP. 86% of RA patients have positive test findings. According to ASO, there may be an increase in RF without an increase in ASO in some circumstances. This is because there may be additional health issues contributing to the auto immune disease. Other results may also indicate an increase in ASO and CRP without an increase in RF.
Conclusions: We came to the conclusion that ACCP antibodies and CRP are the most sensitive and specific tests for the diagnosis of RA.
The Effectiveness of Skill Competency Program on Cervical Collar Placement Algorithm in Cervical Spine Injury in Terms of Knowledge and Practice Among Staff Nurses
Authors: S Anandh Sam Perera. , Chauhan Nadeem , M Murali. , Kumari Rupa
Published: October 2023

Statement of the problem: A Study to assess the effectiveness of skill competency programme on cervical collar placement algorithm in cervical spine injury in terms of knowledge and practice among staff nurses in selected hospital, Meerut.
Objectives of the Study: 1. To prepare and validate skill competency program on cervical collar placement algorithm in cervical spine injury in terms of knowledge and practice among staff nurses, 2. To evaluate the effectiveness of before and after implementation of skill competency programme on improving knowledge and practice regarding cervical collar placement algorithm among staff nurse, 3. To find out the correlate between post-test level of knowledge and practice score regarding cervical collar placement algorithm among staff nurse.
Methodology: An evaluative research approach was used in the study to Skill Competency Program On Cervical Collar Placement Algorithm In Cervical Spine Injury In Terms Of Knowledge And Practice Among Staff Nurse At Selected Hospital Meerut. The research design selected for the study was descriptive design. 60 Staff nurses were selected in hospital setting by non-probability purposive sampling technique. Semi Structured knowledge questionnaire and practice checklist were used to assess the knowledge regarding clinical competency on Cervical Collar Placement Algorithm In Cervical Spine Injury Data collected and analyzed by using descriptive and inferential statistics.
Major Findings of the Study: Majority of the samples 80% staff nurses have excellent knowledge, 36% of them have very good knowledge. The majority of the staff nurses 85% of them have effective practice.
Conclusion: The study concluded that staff nurses were having Excellent knowledge and practice regarding clinical competency on cervical collar placement algorithm in cervical spine injury in terms of knowledge and practice among staff nurse at selected hospital Meerut
Post COVID-19 condition among individuals hospitalized during Wave 1 and Wave 2 at Mulago National Referral Hospital and Entebbe Regional Referral Hospital, Uganda, 2020-2021
Authors: Komakech Allan , Juniour Edirisa Nsubuga , Drazidio Judith , Migamba Stella Martha , Kadobera Daniel , Bulage Lilian , Kwesiga Benon , Riolexus Alex Ario
Published: October 2023

Introduction:
The presence of long-term symptoms among COVID-19 survivors is referred to as Post COVID-19 condition (PCC). In Uganda, the burden of PCC is unknown. We described the spectrum of and risk factors for PCC among persons hospitalized with COVID-19 to inform decision-making.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective cohort study among randomly-selected COVID-19 survivors hospitalized at Mulago and Entebbe Referral Hospitals during Wave 1 (October 2020-December 2020) and Wave 2 (May 2021-June 2021) of the pandemic in Uganda. A PCC case was defined as persistent, returning, or new COVID-19 symptoms occurring during the 4–12 weeks after onset for non-severe disease and during the 8–12 weeks from onset for severe disease, without an alternative diagnosis in a person with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. Patients were contacted by phone, and risk factors for PCC were established using modified Poisson regression.
Findings:
Among 798 COVID-19 survivors (Wave 1: 391; Wave 2: 407), we identified 63 (16%) cases of PCC in Wave 1 and 81 (20%) in Wave 2. In Wave 1, common PCC symptoms included chest pain (14; 18%) and cough (11; 14%), while Wave 2 patients reported fatigue (16; 20%) and cough (16; 20%). Severe disease (aIRR = 2.0, 95%CI: 1.4–2.6) and any comorbidity (aIRR = 1.9, 95%CI: 1.2–2.8) during Wave 1 and any comorbidity (aIRR = 2.6, 95% CI 2.1–3.3) during Wave 2 were associated with PCC.
Interpretation:
Approximately 1 in 5 previously-hospitalized COVID-19 survivors experienced PCC during both waves, emphasizing the need for close follow-up and appropriate post-COVID-19 care.
OriWheelBot: An origami-wheeled robot
Authors: Liu Jie , Pang Zufeng , Li Zhiyong , Wen Guilin , Su Zhoucheng , He Junfeng , Liu Kaiyue , Jiang Dezheng , Li Zenan , Chen Shouyan , Tian Yang , Xie Yi Min , Wang Zhenpei , Liu Zhuangjian
Published: October 2023

Origami-inspired robots with multiple advantages, such as being lightweight, requiring less assembly, and exhibiting exceptional deformability, have received substantial and sustained attention. However, the existing origami-inspired robots are usually of limited functionalities and developing feature-rich robots is very challenging. Here, we report an origami-wheeled robot (OriWheelBot) with variable width and outstanding sand walking versatility. The OriWheelBot’s ability to adjust wheel width over obstacles is achieved by origami wheels made of Miura origami. An improved version, called iOriWheelBot, is also developed to automatically judge the width of the obstacles. Three actions, namely direct pass, variable width pass, and direct return, will be carried out depending on the width of the channel between the obstacles. We have identified two motion mechanisms, i.e., sand-digging and sand-pushing, with the latter being more conducive to walking on the sand. We have systematically examined numerous sand walking characteristics, including carrying loads, climbing a slope, walking on a slope, and navigating sand pits, small rocks, and sand traps. The OriWheelBot can change its width by 40%, has a loading-carrying ratio of 66.7% on flat sand and can climb a 17-degree sand incline. The OriWheelBot can be useful for planetary subsurface exploration and disaster area rescue.
A Joint Model for Disease Mapping with Spatially Correlated Count Data and Covariate Measurement Error
Authors: Rana Masud , Khan Shahedul A , Leatherdale Scott T , Pahwa Punam
Published: October 2023

Cross-sectional and case-control studies are popular individual- level designs. Cross-sectional studies measure/determine prevalence of an adverse health condition, while case-control studies compare two groups based on the exposure measured retrospectively. Individuals within a population can be divided into groups based on observed characteristics, and a particular group may be more or less susceptible to an adverse health condition. In contrast to individual-level study designs, disease mapping and ecological regression models are well-known methods for modeling population-level characteristics using aggregated data. Such designs emphasize on group-level characteristics and ignore variability within groups. However, optimal prediction of an adverse health condition requires us to integrate these techniques into a general frame-work for modeling individual- and group-level factors simultaneously. To overcome this methodological gap, we formulate the joint Besag-York-Mollie (BYM2) model for modeling adverse health condition, integrating individual- and group-level factors into a single framework. The individual- and group-level factors are modelled using submodels linked through association parameters in the joint BYM2 model. The group-level submodel can incorporate spatial auto-correlation in the outcome and covariate measurement error. We propose a Bayesian approach for inference and present comparative studies, via both real and simulated data. The simulation results demonstrate better performance of the joint BYM2 model for capturing parameter values with reasonable uncertainty. We demonstrate an application for modeling the risk of developing adverse health condition among Canadian secondary school students using individual-, school-, and neighbourhood-level risk factors.
Die Schrift „Mensch und Erde“ und ihre Bedeutung für die ökologische Bewegung
Authors: Strelow Heinz-Siegfried
Published: October 2023

Njemačkog filozofa i karakterologa Ludwiga Klagesa možemo smatrati pionirom ekološkog razmišljanja. Prije svega, svojim je spisom »Čovjek i zemlja«, koji je napisao povodom okupljanja Slobodne njemačke mladeži iz svih saveznih zemalja 1913. na gorju Hoher Meißner kod Kassela, dotad besprimjernom oštrinom javno osudio uništavanje prirode modernoga svijeta. Klages se pritom posve držao tradicije koja je započela romantizmom, a koju su utjelovili rani zaštitnici prirode 19. stoljeća poput Wilhelma Heinricha Riehla i Ernsta Rudorffa. No za razliku od njih, on je duhovni uzrok otuđenja čovjeka od ostatka prirode nazvao jasnim imenom ‒ antropocentrizmom. Po njemu, to je srž kako monoteističkih religija, tako i materijalističkog vjerovanja u napredak koje prevladava još od vremena prosvjetiteljstva. Premda su Klagesova razmišljanja za vrijeme njegova života još bila »glas vapijućeg u pustinji«, ekološki pokreti koji su se pojavili tijekom 1970-ih godina mnoga su njegova gledišta – od biocentrizma do ekologije kao vodeće znanosti – nanovo tematizirali.
Spiel als Urphänomen des Lebens und als ästhetische Erlösung
Authors: Bishop Paul
Published: October 2023

Raniji članak istraživao je kako su se takvi filozofi poput Ernsta Cassirera, Ludwiga Klagesa i Maxa Schelera bavili tematskim kompleksom »Duh i Život«. U ovom drugom dijelu razmatra mo – onkraj pitanja odnosa između Duha i Života – pitanje o tome kako je Cassirer općenito odgovorio na Lebensphilosophie (posebno na filozofiju Ludwiga Klagesa), ne samo u svojem eseju o Scheleru nego i u trećem svesku Filozofije simboličkih formi te nacrtima za planirani četvrti svezak. Iz ovog istraživanja postaje jasno da se Cassirer može opisati kao poznavatelj Klagesa, a ovdje sustavno ispitujemo (a) njegovu kritiku Klagesa, (b) mogući klagesijanski odgovor na ovu kritiku i konačno (c) važne poveznice, često zanemarene u kritičkoj literaturi, između Cassirera i Klagesa – posebno u odnosu na teme kao što su simbol, igra i uloga estetike.
Inductive Investigation of Nature in Traditional African Culture
Authors: Airoboman Felix Ayemere
Published: October 2023

Ovo je studija induktivni pristup istraživanju i stjecanju znanja o prirodi u afričkoj kulturi. Počinje, bez ikakve pretpostavke o predznanju, ali bez ikakvog pretjeranog povlađivanja, kratkim izlaganjem značenja indukcije. Analizira, poništava i odbacuje argumentacijske pokušaje koje su nedavno iznijeli neki znanstvenici da indukcija nije dio afričke sposobnosti rasuđivanja, da je ekskluzivna za Zapad i da je većina tradicionalnih vjerovanja iracionalna, praznovjerja i neinferencijska. Nastavlja se kratkom analizom afričkog bavljenja induktivnim razmišljanjem, a zatim povezuje indukciju i prirodni okoliš konkretnom analizom nekih načina na koje Afrikanci razumiju i stječu znanje o prirodnom okolišu putem induktivnog zaključivanja, posebno u tra dicionalnom afričkom društvu. Izvedeno je demonstrativno istraživanje ovih načina u kontekstu medicine, poljoprivrede, znanosti, tehnologije, vremena i godišnjih doba, među ostalim, i o tome kako takvi obrasci mišljenja i rezultirajuće znanje informiraju afrička vjerovanja i prakse. Studija istodobno tvrdi da je afričko induktivno razumijevanje prirode demonstracija induktivne kreativnosti, vještina i sposobnosti tradicionalnih afričkih naroda. Zaključuje se tvrdnjom da ako se utvrdi da tradicionalni Afrikanci induktivno stječu znanje o prirodi i pokaže kako se to znanje stječe, istodobno bi se utvrdilo da su Afrikanci sposobni za induktivnu logiku, čije komponente uključuju zaključke i racionalnost. Studij usvaja konceptualne i kritičke metode filozofske analize.
A Reconstruction of the Idea and Practice of Masquerading among Igbo People of South-Eastern Nigeria
Authors: Dimonye Simeon C. , Asiegbu Martin F.
Published: October 2023

Studija ispituje fenomen maskiranja u kulturi Igbo naroda. Filozofski istražuje kozmologiju i kulturnu antropologiju maskiranja Igboa, izvlačeći neke važne implikacije za koje autori vjeruju da imaju utjecaj na istinu o ljudskom postojanju. Istražuje distorzije unutar i oko ove kulturne prakse Igboa u odnosu na njen imanentni značaj i stoga je pokušava rekonstruirati. Rad pokazuje da golemi potencijali za razvoj svojstveni maskiranju Igboa nadmašuju njegove manjkavosti. Igboansko maskiranje danas često dijeli sadašnju generaciju od starije generacije igboa. Potonji se žale na to da današnji način maskiranja više ne odražava ključne kulturne ideale na roda. Ali, ova situacija nije dobila zasluženu pažnju među znanstvenicima. Značaj ove studije, dakle, leži upravo u pokušaju teorijske i normativne rekonstrukcije maskiranja među Igboima. Cilj je rada kritički se baviti Igbo maskiranjem s ciljem spašavanja od povezanih negativnosti. U svjetlu ključnih ideala istine i socijalne pravde kod Igboa, rad nudi put naprijed i daje neke preporuke. Kao filozofsko istraživanje, studija koristi metode analize, preskripcije i spekulacije.
Properties of Natural Materials as Alternative to Nylon Bristles – An Exploratory Study for Reduction of Polymer Usage
Authors: S Murukesan
Published: October 2023

Background: Nylon bristles are the most commonly used type of bristle in toothbrushes, but they have both advantages and disadvantages. Nylon bristles can be too hard or abrasive for some people's teeth and gums. Nylon is not biodegradable and can harbor bacteria if not cleaned properly. Aims: In order to explore the possibility of using natural fibers this study was conducted. Materials and Methods: Twigs of neem, banyan, babool and miswak were purchased as fresh twigs, wiped clean, hammered on a hard wood base to obtain fibers of desired lengths. Physical appearance, Bend Recovery, Folding Endurance and Antibacterial adhesion against B. Subtilis were evaluated. All experiments were performed as triplicate and mean and standard deviation were reported. Results: Digital microscopy showed well defined fibers of fairly constant diameter, apparent from the superimposed scale. Results of bend recovery analysis showed that miswak fibers were flexible and recovery was good. Folding Endurance test showed miswak and banyan were having great folding endurance. Bacterial adhesion with B. Subtilis was heavy in all fibres. The antibacterial activity of four extracts showed that all groups had identifiable antimicrobial activity at 2000 µg concentrations. Conclusion: From results of the study, it can be inferred that miswak is the most suitable material to be used for fabricating bristles in its native form. Keywords: Babool, Banyan, Bristles, Natural Fibres; Neem Miswak.
Telehealth Utilisation in HIV Care Services in Harare, Zimbabwe: Awareness and Acceptability among Healthcare Workers
Authors: Chigaro Stanford
Published: October 2023

Access to healthcare in developing countries is generally poor due to limited health facilities and shortage of healthcare workers. Recent developments in technology and telehealth promise to address challenges of access to health facilities through remote service provision. However, the level of awareness and acceptability of telehealth in HIV care among healthcare workers in Zimbabwe is not well known. The main objective of this study is to assess the level of awareness and acceptability of telehealth among healthcare workers involved in HIV care in Harare, Zimbabwe. A cross-sectional survey was employed to conveniently sample and interview 395 healthcare workers from 15 public healthcare facilities and 34 private healthcare facilities in Harare. A pretested questionnaire was employed to collect data. Logistic regression analysis was carried out to establish possible association of the independent variable and dependent variables (awareness and acceptance). All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software version 28.0.1.1. Of the 395 healthcare workers interviewed, 87% were aware of telehealth, while 85% found it acceptable. Logistic regression analysis identified educational level, and type of profession to be significantly (p < 0.05) associated with telehealth awareness. There was an association between telehealth acceptance and level of education (p < 0.05). Lack of resources was a major barrier to telehealth utilisation. The findings of this study reveal high awareness and acceptability of telehealth in HIV care among healthcare workers in Harare. The findings provide optimism for telehealth uptake and the promotion of telehealth as an important intervention in HIV care. Keywords: Acceptability, Awareness, HIV care, Telehealth.
Vaccine Management Practices Among Healthcare Workers in Northwestern State, Nigeria: A Comparative Study
Authors: Adewole Adefisoye Oluwaseun
Published: October 2023

Effective vaccine stock management is one of the criteria for a functional vaccine supply chain. The study evaluated vaccine management practices among healthcare workers in equipped and non-equipped public health facilities in Jigawa State, Northwest Nigeria. A cross sectional comparative study was conducted to assess vaccine management knowledge and practices amongst healthcare workers rendering routine immunization. A multistage sampling technique was used for the selection of respondents. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain information from respondents. Level of significance set at p<0.05. There was a significant difference for response on vaccine vail monitors are the only temperature monitoring devices that routinely accompany vaccines throughout the entire supply chain among healthcare workers from equipped health facilities 213 (77.2%) as compared to those from non-equipped health facilities 63 (22.8%). There was a statistical difference in attitude of vaccines and cold chain management between both groups. Respondents from equipped health facilities had good practices of vaccines and cold chain management as compared to those from non-equipped health facilities. The study revealed that healthcare workers from equipped health facilities had good knowledge and positive attitude on vaccines and cold chain management as compared to their counterparts from non-equipped health facilities. Drivers of effective vaccine stock management are length of years working in health facilities, good knowledge, and practices on vaccine stock management as evident among healthcare workers from equipped health facilities. Findings from this study could be used to improve effective vaccine stock management at the state, LGA, and health facility levels. Keywords: Comparative study, Healthcare workers, Nigeria, Practices, Vaccine management.
Sexual Practices and HIV Risk Profile of Female Sex Workers During COVID-19 Pandemic in Uyo, Nigeria
Authors: Omo-Emmanuel Ughweroghene Kingston
Published: October 2023

Female sex workers (FSW) are among the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) most-at-risk sub-populations worldwide. During COVID-19 pandemic, movement of people including FSWs was restricted in many parts of Nigeria. This paper reports on a study conducted to determine sexual practices and risk profile among FSWs during the COVID-19 pandemic in Uyo, Nigeria. This study was a cross-sectional study among FSWs at Uyo One-stop-shop for Key Populations from June 2020–August 2020 using a structured questionnaire. Participants were selected using systematic random sampling. Responses to consistent condom use and sexual practices with different categories of clients, prophylaxis use, and adherence were collected. Bivariate analyses were done using the Chi-square test as well as Fisher’s exact test while multivariate analysis was with logistic regression analysis and P-value of <0.05 considered statistically significant. 357 FSWs interviewed, but only 344(96.4%) had complete response. 37.2% of the respondents were within the 25-29 years age range and mean (standard deviation-SD) age of 29.06(5.20). 72.4% of the respondents reported they consistently use condoms with first-time clients and 65.7% with repeat clients. 88.7% of the respondents were unmarried and 74.4% have been FSW for ≤5 years with a mean (SD) duration of 4.95(4.02) years. 47.4% of respondents had unprotected sex when incentivized by clients. Cases of HIV exposure among respondents without prophylaxis were reported by 34.9% and 38.1% of the respondents, respectively. Overall adherence to PEP was 30.9%. A high proportion of FSWs engage in high-risk behaviors. FSWs should be advised on their role in HIV prevention through consistent condom use. Keywords: COVID-19, Female Sex Workers, Pre- and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis, Sexual Behaviours, Sexual Practices.
Co-relation between ART (Anti-Retroviral Therapy) Adherence with Nutritional Status and Quality of Life among HIV-Infected Adolescents
Authors: Sakthivel Rajathi
Published: October 2023

Successful treatment for Perinatally Infected Adolescents (PIA) faces physical challenges like the risk of co-morbidity, deferred growth, and development, often resulting in late puberty in girls, and stunting/wasting makes it difficult to reach the transition phase of adulthood. The study aims to identify the correlation between ART adherence with nutritional status and QOL and find the association between adherence scores with selected demographic variables among adolescents. A randomized Controlled Trial design was adopted. Through simple random technique, a total of 388 HIV-infected adolescents were divided into experimental (195) and control (193) groups. The data were collected from four ART clinics in Chennai, India, through standardized ART adherence, QOL, and structured nutritional assessment questionnaires. Motivational counselling was given to the experimental group, and the researcher demonstrated selected asanas. The data were collected from both groups at ‘0’, ‘3’ & 6-month intervals. Descriptive & inferential statistics were used for the analysis of data. Regarding correlation, in the experimental group, baseline assessment showed poor correlation, but in the 3rd & 6th months there was a fair and moderate correlation found and was significant at p=0.05** and P=0.001*** respectively. Whereas in a control group, throughout the assessment period showed that, there was a poor correlation. Regarding association, showed adolescents' age, sex, sex of caregivers, relationship with adolescents, and residence were found significant. Motivational counseling along with asana has a positive correlation to ART adherence to promote the health and well-being of adolescents in the experimental group than in the control group. Keywords: Adherence, Correlation, HIV-infected adolescents, Nutrition, Quality of life.