bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resilience During a Pandemic: Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Routine Immunization Programs in Northern Nigeria
Authors: Aigbogun Jr. Eric Osamudiamwen , Ibrahim Raihanah , Yusufari Yusuf , Igbokwe Uchenna , Okongwu Chimelu , Abdulkarim Amina , Tijanni Hussaini , Modu Maina , Fagge Rabiu Muhammad , Aina Muyi
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on routine immunization (RI) programs in six Northern Nigerian states: Bauchi, Borno, Kaduna, Kano, Sokoto, and Yobe. This study compared the programmatic data of 2019 and 2020, as well as survey data collected during the pandemic. RI program variables included service delivery, leadership and governance, monitoring and evaluation/supportive supervision, community engagement, vaccine supply chain and logistics, and finance and financial management. Data were analyzed using SPSS (version 23, IBM), student t-test, and structural equation modelling. The results showed that RI programs were affected by the pandemic in terms of reduced meetings and low completion rates of action points in certain states. However, routine immunization support services increased owing to improved monitoring techniques and consistent vaccine deliveries, with fewer reports of stock-outs. The most significant impact of the pandemic was observed on activities coordinated at the healthcare facility level, whereas those at the state level were less impacted. The major challenges encountered during the pandemic included insufficient supplies and consumables, movement restrictions, shortage of human resources, and fear of infection.
Численное исследование влияния искусственных препятствий на возникновение ураганных порывов ветра при боре
Authors: Абакумов Михаил Владимирович , Abakumov Mikhail Vladimirovich
Published: April 2023

На основе численного решения двумерных уравнений газовой динамики в переменных Эйлера с учетом гравитации моделируется развитие турбулентных атмосферных процессов, сопутствующих ветрам бора. Параметры рассматриваемой математической модели характерны для бухты Новороссийска, где при боре наблюдаются
порывы ветра ураганной силы, зачастую приводящие к катастрофическим последствиям. Демонстрируется принципиальная возможность возведения инженерных сооружений, позволяющих значительно понизить интенсивность порывов ветра.
Predicting Pathological Fractures at Metastatic Humeral Lesions
Authors: Tat Jimmy , Bodansky David , Sheth Ujash , Ung Yee , Whyne Cari , Nam Diane
Published: April 2023

Background:

The humerus is the second most common site of metastatic disease involving long bones, yet it is still unclear which patients are at high risk for a fracture and may require prophylactic surgical fixation. The goal of this study was to assess the validity of the Mirels score to predict fractures of metastatic lesions in the humerus.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective electronic chart review of patients with humeral metastases at our institution (2005 to 2021), with 188 patients meeting the inclusion criteria. Sixty-one of the patients developed a fracture during follow-up. The metastatic humeral lesions were scored according to the Mirels rating system and additional radiographic criteria (cortical breach, location within the humerus, number of lesions). The predictive value of each Mirels score cutoff for fracture was assessed using sensitivity, specificity, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), and multivariate logistic regression. Survivorship until fracture was analyzed for each Mirels score cutoff using Kaplan-Meier curves and the log-rank test. Significance was set at p < 0.01.

Results:

There were no significant differences in age, sex, side of the lesion, type of malignancy, and radiation dose between the groups with and without fracture (all p > 0.01). A Mirels score of ≥8 points had the best predictive profile, with sensitivity of 83.6%, specificity of 79.5%, and AUC of 0.82 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.75 to 0.88, p < 0.01). A logistic regression model also demonstrated that a Mirels score of ≥8 (odds ratio = 5.8, 95% CI = 1.9 to 18.2, p < 0.01) and a cortical breach (odds ratio = 21.0, 95% CI = 5.7 to 77.2, p < 0.01) were significant predictors of pathological fracture. No other radiographic characteristics were found to be significant predictors of fracture.

Conclusions:

This study indicated that a Mirels score of ≥8 points had the best predictive profile for anticipating fractures at a metastasis in the humerus. This is in contrast to the traditional Mirels definition of an impending pathological fracture that is used for the lower extremity, a score of ≥9. Additionally, the presence of a cortical breach was a significant predictor of fracture risk.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Perilaku Korosi Paduan Titanium Ti6Al4V ELI Dilapisi Biokeramik pada Cairan Modifikasi Air Ludah Buatan pada Temperatur yang Berfluktuasi
Authors: Muharni Riza , Sutra Dewi Aminar
Published: April 2023

Titanium paduan merupakan material implan yang banyak digunakan untuk implan medis terutama bidang kedokteran gigi ( ortodentik ). Aplikasi implan gigi pada rongga mulut mengalami fluktuasi temperatur sesuai dengan temperatur makanan dan minuman yang masuk kedalam mulut sehingga membuat implan mudah terkorosi. Pada penelitian ini dilakukan pelapisan biokeramik hidroksiapatit pada permukaan Ti6Al4V ELI dengan metode EPD kemudian direndam dengan larutan air ludah buatan selama 6 minggu pada temperatur yang berfluktuasi yaitu 20ºC dan 60ºC. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah mengetahui pengaruh temperatur fluktuasi dalam air ludah buatan terhadap laju korosi dari Ti6Al4V ELI yang dilapisi biokeramik dengan metode weight loss ( kehilangan berat ) dan mengetahui pengaruh temperatur fluktuasi dalam air ludah buatan terhadap nilai kekerasan dari Ti6Al4V ELI yang dilapisi biokeramik.Hasilnya laju korosi menurun dari 1,10 mpy menjadi 0,43 mpy dan nilai kekerasan menurun dari 317 HVN menjadi  200 HVN. Hal ini menunjukkan bahwa hidroksiapatit dapat menghambat korosi tetapi tidak dapat mempertahankan sifat mekanis dari implan.
Targeted Agglutination of Corona Virus by Tapered Chiral Nanoparticles
Authors: Gao Rui , Xu Xinxin , Kumar Prashant , Liu Ye , Zhang Hongyu , Guo Xiao , sun maozhong , Colombari Felippe , de Moura André , hao changlong , Cha Minjeong , Turali-Emre Emine , Ma Jessica , Xu Liguang , kuang hua , Kotov Nicholas , Xu Chuanlai
Published: April 2023

The emergence of new viral threats, wide applications of viruses in biotechnology and challenges associated with viral contamination necessitate multiple types of virustatic agents. Here, we show that highly biocompatible tapered CuS nanoparticles efficiently agglutinate COVID virus with binding affinity dependent on chirality of surface ligands and particle shape. L-penicillamine-stabilized nanoparticles with left-handed curved apexes display half-maximal inhibitory concentration as low as 0.57 pM for authentic SARS-CoV-2 viruses, which is ca 15 times greater than for antibodies. Exposure to elevated temperatures causes no change in activity or biocompatibility of nanoparticles while completely deactivating antibodies. Testing with mice indicates that the chirality-optimized nanoparticles can serve as analogs of high antiviral molecular weight biologics complementing the current spectrum of virustatic agents. Their thermal and chemical stability simplifies their applications in biomedical and biotechnological processes.
Preparation of Ni–Co ore mining mullock powder based cementing materials by mechano-chemical activation: Performance and Mechanism
Authors: Xiang Yuwei , Lan Jirong , Cai Yungao , Wang Yi , Dong Yiqie , Hou Haobo
Published: April 2023

How to effectively recycle Ni–Co ore mining mullock (OMM) is a key means to address both local environmental pollution and resource waste. In this study, OMM and bottom ash (BA) were prepared into cementitious materials (OBM) by mechanochemical means with gentle conditions. It is mainly realized by grinding the mixture and pressing it into columnar blocks. The results show that the maximum compressive strength of OBM is 4.803 MPa in 28 day meet the standard of China mine backfilling for mine repair, and the stability efficiency of Ni2+and Co2+is above 90%. The mechanism studies show that the amorphous materials recombine to form silicon-aluminum polymers, while a small portion of Ni2+and Co2+binds to the polymer during consolidation to form massive structure. Most of the heavy metal ions are encased in the hard structure, which is relatively stable and without pollution risk. The chemical behavior of metals in the system is fitted by geochemical model. This study not only solved the problem of heavy metal contamination in OMM, but also transformed it into a cementitious material that can be used for backfilling of local pits.
Development of nomogram to predict the probability of blastocyst formation on day 5: a retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Huan , Jin Wumin , Sun Junhui , Xu Zhihui , Ye Danna
Published: April 2023

Background Blastocyst transfer may cause cycle cancellation due to no blastocyst has developed. Could we develop a model for predicting probability of blastocyst formation on Day 5?Methods The model was developed base on 4327 fresh in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles. Univariate logistic regression analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were conduct to investigate the relationship between patient and cycle characteristics and the formation of usable blastocysts on Day 5. And the nomogram was developed based on variables selected from multivariate logistic regression analysis. Discrimination and calibration of the model was evaluated by area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and calibration curve.Results Female age, type of fertilization, fertilization rate, cleavage rate, number of Day 3 embryo extended culture to blastocyst stage, high-quality rate of Day 3 embryos extended culture to blastocyst stage, were predictors of usable blastocysts formation on Day 5. Results showed AUC in the training cohort was 0.874 (95% CI 0.862–0.887) and AUC in validation cohort was 0.886 (95% CI 0.867–0.905), indicating the good discrimination ability of the model. And the calibration curves in training and validation cohorts were both close to the ideal diagonal line, reflecting good accuracy of the model.Conclusion This model provides an intuitive and simple tool for predicting the probability of usable blastocysts formation on Day 5, and it may be helpful to reduce the cancellation rate of blastocyst transfer.
Accelerating Thouless pump in bilayer integrated waveguide lattices
Authors: Li Tao , Song Wange , You Oubo , Sun Jiacheng , Wu Shengjie , Chen Chen , Huang Chunyu , Qiu Kai , Zhu Shining , Zhang Shuang
Published: April 2023

The Thouless pump refers to the quantized transport of a one-dimensional system under cyclic motion of the system parameters without external forces. This phenomenon has a first Chern class topological invariant and typically requires a slow evolution to meet the adiabatic condition, which imposes a constraint on the system's compactness. In this study, we propose a method to accelerate the Thouless pump in an optical system that consists of bilayer integrated silicon waveguides operating at telecommunication wavelengths. The bilayer system's effective long-range couplings allow the adiabatic criteria to persist even with a rapid parameter evolution speed. As a result, the adiabatic pump evolution can be significantly sped up without violating the topological nature. This approach challenges traditional notions and promises a feasible and powerful compact platform for quasi-3D photonic integration at the nanoscale, enabling the realization of complex topological physics and novel on-chip photonic devices.
Finite-time control for UA quadcopter in application of wildfire monitoring
Authors: Mawanza Joewell Tafadzwa
Published: April 2023

An improved finite-time control technique for an uncrewed aerial (UA) quadcopter subjected to nonlinear uncertainties and disturbances is proposed in this paper. Firstly, high order sliding mode observer (HOSOM) is developed to estimate system states, nonlinear uncertainties and disturbances in the system. The estimated system states are then used to design an improved non-singular fast terminal sliding mode control scheme with an improved exponential term added to the sliding surface. The overall system stability under the proposed control scheme is investigated using the Lyapunov stability theory. Finally, numerical simulations show that the proposed control scheme offers a comprehensive solution to the trajectory tracking problem for a UA quadcopter.
Damage tolerance assessment of heavy-duty freight railway axles with artificial defects
Authors: Zhao Hai , Liao Ding , Gao Jie-Wei , Zhu Shun-Peng , Liu Li-Gen , Han Jing , Li Shan-Tong
Published: April 2023

Heavy-duty freight railway axles are no less important than that of passenger ones, due to the potentially catastrophic results caused by the derailment of trains carrying hazardous substances. Intrinsic and extrinsic imperfections challenge classical design theories built based on the safe life concept, and damage tolerance assessment becomes vital for the safety and reliability of long-term serviced railway axles, as pits and scratches are common defects for heavy-duty railway axles. In this work, four-point rotating bending fatigue tests of the AAR-CM railway axle steel specimens with semi-circular and circumferential groove notches were conducted. The fatigue limit of the semi-circular notched specimen was evaluated based on the fracture mechanics theory, in which non-conservative results were obtained by the Haddad model; and the 𝑺–𝑵curves of circumferential groove notched specimens were correlated by the theory of critical distance (TCD).
Associations between Meeting 24-hour Movement Guidelines and Myopia Among School-aged Children: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhao Mengxian , Zhang Yanjie , Wu Haowen , Herold Fabian , Taylor Alyx , Chen Jianyu , Hou Meijun , Zhang Zhihao , Gao Yanping , Sun Jing , Hossain M. Mahbub , Kramer Arthur F , Müller Notger G. , Zou Liye
Published: April 2023

Background The Canadian 24-hour movement behavior (24-HMB) guidelines recommend an adequate level of physical activity (PA), a limited amount of screen time (ST), and sufficient sleep duration (SLP) to promote the healthy development of children. Although the positive effects of adhering to the 24-HMB guidelines have been established for several health parameters, less is known about how adherence to the 24-HMB guidelines relates myopia risk (i.e., inability to see distant objects properly). This study investigated associations between meeting 24-HMB guidelines and myopia risk in school-aged children.Method Using a questionnaire survey, this cross-sectional study was conducted among parents of school-aged children (5–13 years) in China from September 15 to October 15, 2022, with a total of 1,423 respondents with complete data for analysis. Parents reported their child’s time spent in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA), SLP and ST. Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the associations between measures of PA, ST, and SLP alone and in combination, and myopia.Results A relatively low percentage of the children (4.92%) met all 24-HMB guidelines, while 32.46% had myopia. Girls had a significantly higher risk of myopia compared to boys (OR = 1.3, 1.002 to 1.68, p = 0.049). Children of parents without myopia had a lower risk of myopia (OR = 0.45, 0.34–0.59, p < 0.001). Children who lived in cities (OR = 1.83, 95% CI 1.33 to 2.52, p < 0.001) or towns (OR = 1.60, 1.03 to 2.47, p = 0.04) had a significantly higher risk of myopia compared to those living in villiages. Meeting SLP guidelines (OR = 0.50, 95% CI 0.31 to 0.82, p < 0.01), meeting ST + SLP guidelines (OR = 0.47, 95% CI 0.32–0.69, < 0.001), and meeting all three guidelines were associated with significantly decreased risk of myopia (OR = 0. 40, 95% CI 0.20–0.82, p = 0.01). Meeting more 24-HMB guidelines was associated with reduced risk of myopia.Conclusions Adhering to SLP guideline, ST + SLP guideines, and ST + SLP + PA may be a preventive approach to the onset and progression of myopia. Future research investigating dose-response associations, and potential mechanisms, is necessary to achieve a more nuanced understanding of the observed associations.
HPS-YOLOv7: A High Precision Small Object Detection Algorithm
Authors: Sun Tao , Chen Haonan , Liu Haiying , Lou Haitong , Duan Xuehu
Published: April 2023

Now deep learn-based object detection can be deployed on drones for criminalinvestigation or military counter-terrorism. Because the proportion of pixels of pedestrians orvehicles in the aerial picture taken by UAV is very small, the probability of detection of smallobjects in the distance is very low or there are omissions. In this paper, the HPS-YOLOv7 algorithmis proposed to improve the detection accuracy of small objects. We have proposed a modifiedhigh-efficiency layer aggregation network for feature extraction, solved the problem that theconvergence of depth models tends to worsen, and lightly processed models with a Bottleneckstructure. We have proposed C-recursively gated convolution, which fully fuses shallow objectsemantic information and enhances the model capacity. To be more helpful for detect small objects,the detection head of 20×20 was replaced by 160×160 detection head, and shallow feature fusionnetwork (SFN) was connected to make up for the information lost by small objects in the deepconvolutional network. Mosaic data enhancement and a priori anchor adaptive adjustment strategyare used in model training to improve the detection efficiency and accuracy. Experimentalevaluation was carried out on VisDrone2019 and Tinyperson data sets respectively. The results showthat mAP increases by 3.0% and 13.29% compared with yolov7 on the basis of IoU=0.5. mAP of0.5≤IoU≤0.95 increased by 1.8% and 3.97%; It is shown that the advantages of HPS-YOLOv7 insmall object detection have certain theoretical value and practical significance.
Fixed-Time Tracking Control for State-Constrained Nonstrict-Feedback Systems Without Feasibility Conditions
Authors: Li Chengpeng , Xu Zuhua , Zhao Jun , Ren Qinyuan , Song Chunyue
Published: April 2023

This paper investigates the fixed-time tracking control schemes for a class of state-constrained nonstrict-feedback nonlinear systems without involving the feasibility conditions. Based on nonlinear mapping, a nonlinear state transformation function is constructed to convert the constrained system into an equivalent system without state constraints, which achieves the asymmetric time-varying state constraints and eliminates the feasibility conditions on the virtual controllers. A nonlinear fixed-time filter with dynamic surface control is utilized to handle the problem of explosion of complexity in the backstepping framework. Furthermore, we develop a fixed-time observer-based tracking control strategy for the nonstrict-feedback system subject to unmeasured states. To remove the restrictive assumptions of known control gain functions, the nonlinear system is reconstructed and the neural networks are employed to approximate the unknown terms. In addition, a hyperbolic tangent function is utilized to address the input saturation problem. Through the Lyapunov theorem, the closed-loop system is proven to be practical fixed-time stable within the constraint requirements. Finally, simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Economical production, optimization, and characterization of bio-vanillin (4-hydroxy-3- methoxybenzaldehyde) using lignocellulosic waste
Authors: Paul Veena , Agarwal Aparna , Tripathi Abhishek Dutt
Published: April 2023

Coconut coir waste is a rich lignocellulosic biomass. The coconut coir waste generated from temples is resistant to natural degradation, and its accumulation causes environmental pollution. Ferulic acid, a vanillin precursor, was extracted from the coconut coir waste by hydro-distillation extraction. The extracted ferulic acid was used for bio-vanillin synthesis by Bacillus aryabhattai NCIM 5503 under submerged fermentation. The process variables were optimized using the Taguchi design of the experiment. A 27 set of experimental trials was constructed with the seven most influential factors on bio-vanillin biosynthesis at three levels for the proposed experimental design. The bio-vanillin yield obtained was processed with Qualitek-4 software at bigger is better as a quality character and obtained a specific combination of factors with a predicted bio-vanillin production of 644.61 ± 0.01 mg/L. The optimal combinations of factors obtained from the proposed DOE methodology were further validated. The result revealed an enhanced bio-vanillin yield of 29.23-fold (from 495.96 ± 0.01 to 640.96 ± 0.02 mg/L) from its unoptimized condition. The extracted bio-vanillin was characterized using High-performance liquid chromatography, Fourier transform infrared, and Electrospray Ionisation Mass Spectrometry Quadrupole time-of-flight.
Enhancement of Colour Density and Anthocyanin Stabilities in Pomegranate Juice Against Hmf at Various Concentrations Through Amino Acid Copigmentation During Storage
Authors: Türkyılmaz Meltem , Hamzaoğlu Fatmagül , Çiftci Rumeysa Betül Arı , Özkan Mehmet
Published: April 2023

Degradation effect of various 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) concentrations (2.3–15.2 mg/L) on pomegranate juice (PJ) anthocyanins/colour and potential of amino acids [aspartic acid (AA), phenylalanine (PA) and valine (V)] to reduce anthocyanin degradation by copigmentation were investigated. Stabilities of anthocyanin and colour density (CD) were reduced by 5.2–8.2 mg HMF/L but increased by 15.2 mg HMF/L. When ratios of “cy-3,5-diglu to HMF” and “cy-3-glu to HMF” were 1.82–2.67 and 1.91–2.85, respectively, copigmentation took place. AA and V reduced HMF content. As number of –CH3 group in an amino acid increased, stability of HMF reduction effect by the amino acid also increased. In PJ containing 8.2 mg HMF/L, V, a hydrophobic-aliphatic amino acid, provided the highest stabilities for individual anthocyanins, CD and hyperchromic effect (HE). AA increased the stabilities of CD and HE in PJ containing 5.2 mg HMF/L, while PA increased CD stability at 15.2 mg HMF/L concentration.
Operating Room Air May Harbor Pathogens: The Role of An Ultraviolet Air Filtration Unit.
Authors: Fernández-Rodríguez Diana , Tarabichi Saad , Golankiewicz Krystal , Zappley Nicolina , Parvizi Javad
Published: April 2023

Prevention of surgical site infections involves implementation of numerous steps including ultraclean air in the operating room (OR). We conducted this prospective study to determine and compare the nature and quantity of microbes in the OR, as detected from the inlet and outlet flow of an ultraviolet filtration unit. To do so, a filtration unit with a crystalline ultraviolet unit (C-UVC) was placed in the OR. The inflow and outflow air from the unit was sampled at the beginning and at conclusion of each surgical procedure. We recorded surgical-related variables and processed the air swabs for culture and Next-Generation Sequencing. The mean length of the surgical procedures sampled was 68±13 minutes. Overall, 19 out of 200 (9.5%) swabs isolated microorganisms. Inflow swabs were positive at a higher rate (16% vs. 3%; p<0.01), compared to the outflow air swabs. A wide variety of Gram-positive, Gram-negative, anaerobic bacteria, and fungi were isolated. The detection of microorganisms was higher in light of a higher number of door openings (32.5±7.1 vs. 27.9±5.6; p<0.01). Our study showed that microorganisms are present in the OR. Moreover, a specialized filtration unit with a C-UVC light was effective in filtering these microorganisms in the majority of cases.
Characterization of Newly Diagnosed Type 1 Diabetes in Children and Adolescents from 2017–2022 in China: A Single-center Analysis
Authors: Wu Shimin , Gao Yuan , Guo Shusen , Fu Lina , Ying Yanqin , Wu Wei , Hou Ling , Liang Yan , Luo Xiaoping
Published: April 2023

OBJECTIVE This study investigated the characteristics of newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) related to autoimmunity and the frequency of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in children and adolescents from 2017–2022 in China.RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Single-center regional data from the Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Tongji Hospital, were used to compare 88 children and adolescents newly diagnosed with T1DM from 2020 to 2022 (i.e. during the COVID-19 pandemic in China) and 76 children and adolescents diagnosed with T1DM from 2017 to 2019. Auto-antibodies, including glutamic acid decarboxylase-65 and insulin auto-antibodies, were detected by enzyme-linked immunoassays. DKA was defined as a pH < 7.3 and/or a bicarbonate level < 15 mmol/L.RESULTS The median age of the 164 children and adolescents newly diagnosed with T1DM from 2017 to 2022 was 7.0 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 3.8–10.0 years; 51.83% male). The mean annual incidence of T1DM was 4.25/100,000. The estimated frequency of auto-antibody positivity was 51.22% (n = 84), and there was no difference between the 2020–2022 group and 2017–2019 group (55.68% [n = 49] vs. 46.5% [n = 35]; p = 0.219). The incidence of DKA among the entire cohort was 57.93% (n = 95). The frequency of DKA was not significantly higher in the 2020–2022 group compared with the 2017–2019 group (60.23% [n = 53] vs. 55.26% [n = 42]; p = 0.521). We found no significant difference in the frequency of DKA between patients who were negative vs. positive for auto-antibodies in the 2020–2022 group (64.10% [n = 25] vs. 57.14% [n = 28], p > 0.05). The C-peptide level and HbA1c (%) were positively correlated with onset age (R1 = 0.389, p < 0.01; R2 = 0.371, p < 0.01), and the estimated mean C-peptide level was 0.26 ng/ml (IQR: 0.2–0.4 ng/ml) in patients with DKA and 0.370 ng/ml (IQR: 0.2–0.6 ng/ml) in patients without DKA (p = 0.044).CONCLUSIONS This study showed the annual incidence of T1DM was 4.25/100,000, gradually increased over the study period, and there was no significant increase in T1DM with auto-antibody positivity in children and adolescents newly diagnosed from 2020–2022 in China compared with the previous 3 years. Furthermore, the frequencies of DKA were not significantly different between patients who were negative vs. positive for auto-antibodies.
Evaluation of the implementation of patient decision aid: A mixed-method study
Authors: Tong Wen Ting , Ng Chirk Jenn , Lee Yew Kong , Lee Ping Yein
Published: April 2023

Background This study aimed to evaluate the implementation of an insulin-choice PDA specifically measuring implementation outcomes.Methods A mixed-methods sequential explanatory design was used. The RE-AIM domains namely “Reach”, “Adoption”, “Implementation”, and “Maintenance” were used to guide evaluation.Results For ‘Reach’, 88.9% (n = 48/54) of doctors and 55% (n = 11/20) of nurses attended the insulin PDA training workshops. This was attributed to their self-motivation and the mandate from the Head of Department. The PDA reached 387 patients and was facilitated by the doctors who delivered the PDA to them and their own desire to know more about insulin. Doctors’ ‘Adoption’ of the PDA was high (83.3%, n = 45/54) due to the positive personal experience with the usefulness of the PDA. Only 65.7% (n = 94/143) of patients who received the PDA read it. The degree of ‘Implementation’ of the PDA varied for different tasks (ranged from 19.2%-84.9%) and was challenged by patient and system barriers. For ‘Maintenance’, 80% of the doctors were willing to continue using the PDA due to its benefits.Conclusion This study highlighted that PDA implementation is promising. Addressing the issues of social hierarchy, and HCPs’ roles and responsibilities can further improve implementation outcomes.
Low neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and pan-immune-inflammation-value predict nodal pathologic complete response in 1274 breast cancer patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy: a multicenter analysis
Authors: Gasparri Maria Luisa , Albasini Sara , Truffi Marta , Favilla Karin , Tagliaferri Barbara , Piccotti Francesca , Bossi Daniela , Armatura Giulia , Calcinotto Arianna , Chiappa Corrado , Combi Francesca , Curcio Annalisa , Valle Angelica Della , Ferrari Guglielmo , Folli Secondo , Ghilli Matteo , Listorti Chiara , Mancini Stefano , Marinello Peter , Mele Simone , Pertusati Anna , Roncella Manuela , Rossi Lorenzo , Rovera Francesca , Segattini Silvia , Sgarella Adele , Tognali Daniela , Corsi Fabio
Published: April 2023

Background Systemic inflammatory markers draw great interest as potential blood-based prognostic factors in several oncological settings. The aim of this study is to evaluate whether neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and pan-immune-inflammation value (PIV) predict nodal pathologic complete response (pCR) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in node positive (cN+) breast cancer (BC) patients.Methods Clinically node-positive BC patients undergoing NAC followed by breast and axillary surgery were enrolled in a multicentric study from 11 Breast Units. Pre-treatment blood counts were collected for the analysis and used to calculate NLR and PIV. Logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate independent predictors of nodal pCR.Results A total of 1274 cN + BC patients were included. Nodal pCR was achieved in 586 (46%) patients. At multivariate analysis, low NLR (OR = 0.71; 95% CI, 0.51–0.98; p-value = 0.04) and low PIV (OR = 0.63; 95% CI, 0.44–0.90; p-value = 0.01) were independently predictive of increased likelihood of nodal pCR. A sub-analysis on cN1 patients (n = 1075), confirmed the statistical significance of these variables. PIV was significantly associated with axillary pCR in ER-/HER2+ (OR = 0.31; 95% CI, 0.12–0.83; p-value = 0.02) and ER-/HER2- (OR = 0.41; 95% CI, 0.17–0.97; p-value = 0.04) BC patients.Conclusion This study found that low NLR and PIV levels predict axillary pCR in patients with BC undergoing NAC.Trial registration Eudract number NCT05798806
Dynamic analysis of thermal crack propagation in RCD dams considering rotational component of ground motion
Authors: Tavakoli Hamid Reza , Mofid Taghi , Dehestani Mehdi
Published: April 2023

In design and construction of the Roller-Compacted Concrete dams (RCD) controlling of the thermal cracks is a significant matter. In the construction of RCD dams, two types of internal and external concrete are used; Thermal cracks are occurred due to hydration of various cements in this type of dams. Ignorance of this issue can lead to crack formation in the susceptible points of the dams and also propagation of the cracks during an earthquake is a threat to the stability and durability of the dam. In this research, the behavior of the thermal cracks existed in the RCD dam body, is investigated through translational and rotational components of the seismic ground motion. Three-dimensional finite element model of the concrete gravity dam is built in ABAQUS software, and the model was subjected to 7 near-field earthquake records. After validation of the model, the propagation of the thermal crack existed in the dam body is evaluated using fracture mechanics criterion (J-integral criterion). The results of the finite element analysis show that the existence of the thermal cracks in the susceptible points of the dam, leads to propagation of these cracks during an earthquake. Especially, with considering the rotational component of the ground motion which has the significant contribution in the obtained values of the crack propagation criterion; This contribution is related to the intensity and frequency content of the earthquake, which can lead to an increase of the crack propagation energy up to 50 percent in some earthquake records.
Plasmodium falciparum genetic diversity and multiplicity of infection in Ethiopia: systematic and meta-analysis
Authors: Abriham Zufan Yiheyis , Belew Aysheshim Kassahun , Baffa Lemlem Daniel , Mengistu Berhanu , Gasahw Moges , Mohammod Esmeal Ali , Alemayehu Mekonnen Sisay , Angaw Dessie Abebaw
Published: April 2023

Background In malaria endemic regions, Plasmodium falciparum infection is characterized by variable genetic diversity at different settings. The parasite's various forms are found at varied frequency in different geographic areas, resulting in different levels of multiplicity of infection. This study was under taken to determine the status of P. falciparum genetic diversity and MOI in different regions of Ethiopia.Methods Relevant publications were identified from electronic databases such as; PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Google scholar and Google. Besides, an online search was done using the above databases for all articles published in English on genetic diversity of P.falciparum in Ethiopia. STATA software was used for data analysis. The pooled estimates were calculated using random effect model. The summary estimates were presented using forest plots and tables.Results A total of 11 studies were included in the systematic review. However, only 8, 10 and 2 studies were included for Pfmsp-1, msp-2 and glurp gene meta-analysis, respectively. However, the meta-analysis result showed that the pooled prevalence of Pfmsp-1, msp-2 and glurp gene were 84% for both msp-1/2 and 51%, respectively. The pooled prevalence of msp-1 gene was higher in Amhara region followed by Oromia region and lower in SNNPR while, for msp-2 gene the pooled prevalence was higher in Benshangul gumez region and lower in SNNPR. Among the allelic family of msp-1 and msp-2 genes, MAD20 (34%) and FC27 (44%) were the most predominant respectively.Conclusion Based on the review, there is evidence of the presence of high genetic diversity of P. falciparum parasites in Ethiopia, suggesting that malaria transmission remain high and that strengthened control efforts are needed. The approaches and methods used for investigation, confirmation and reporting of diversified parasites have similarity between studies and across regions and should use advanced molecular techniques, like microsatellite, whole genome sequence and capillary electrophoresis to assess the genetic diversity of P. falciparum for better determination of P. falciparum genetic diversity.
Co-Infection of Covid-19 with Dengue and Chikungunya: A Study from a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Srin Mote , Sultana Waseema , Rani Vannavada Sudha , Pavani Sanka , Mehreen Syeda Fakiha , Reddy Palkonda Shashikala , Priya Narayana Padma , Ravi Vemula
Published: April 2023

Purpose The present study is aimed to identify the co-infection of Covid-19 with Dengue and/or Chikungunya. The present study was conducted from June 2021 to August 2021.Method 125 serum samples were collected from febrile patients of all age groups suffering from cold and fever. These samples were tested for the presence of Covid-19 antibodies. The Covid-19 positive sample were tested for the Dengue and/or Chikungunya infections by using IgM ELISA.Results Among 125 samples, 91 samples were tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. In these 91 Covid-19 positive samples, 3 samples were Dengue IgM positive and 14 were positive for Chikungunya by IgM ELISA.Conclusion In the present study, antibodies against CHIKV, DENV were detected in Covid-19 positive patients. 14 cases of coinfection between Covid-19 and Chikungunya and 3 cases of coinfection between Covid-19 and Dengue were reported from the present study.
Research on Ecological Governance of The Yellow River Basin Based on A Tripartite Game
Authors: Shen Z. F. , Fang L. Y. , Zhang M. Y. , Liang X. N.
Published: April 2023

Water pollution in the Yellow River basin is a severe obstacle to the current ecological protection and high-quality development, so pollution control in the Yellow River basin is a hot issue of national and social concern. In this paper, by constructing a tripartite game model among government regulators, enterprises along the Yellow River, and the public, the influencing factors of strategy choice among the three subjects and the evolution trend of strategy choice of each topic under different parameter changes are analyzed. Finally, MATLAB software was used to simulate the game model and discuss the results of the study, and propose countermeasures for the ecological governance of the Yellow River basin: the government regulators should set a reasonable compensation mechanism to ensure the enthusiasm of the government regulators and the continuity of public monitoring; the enterprises along the Yellow River should respond to the national call to take the corresponding responsibility while obtaining their economic benefits. To contribute to the national sustainable development strategy.
Rippability assessment of weathered granite rock mass using seismic velocity and graphical method
Authors: Suparmanto Eka Kusmawati , Mohamad Edy Tonnizam , Muztaza Nordiana Mohd , Legiman Mariatul Kiftiah Ahmad , Zainal Zuraini , Zainuddin Nurul Eilmy , Slamat Fazleen , Rathinasamy Vynotdni , Md Mohd Firdaus , Manan Azhar Abd
Published: April 2023

Seismic refraction methods and Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) are commonly used as geophysical methods for rock mass characterization and ground subsurface for excavation assessment. In this study, this method was used in the BJ Kota Tinggi Quarry, Johor to evaluate the characteristics of granite and geological features and perspective zones for excavatability. There are two (2) seismic and two (2) electric resistivity surveys were performed at this site with 69m and 80m respectively. The seismic data were processed using SeisOptPicker and SeisOpt2D software. Resistivity data were interpreted and analyzed by using the software RES2DINV. Materials with seismic velocities greater than 2000 m/s show no ripping. While a low resistivity value is obtained due to fracture zones found in harder rocks that have been filled by water or clay minerals. This seismic velocity profile is then compared with the Rippability Chart by Caterpillar using the smallest ripper D8R, to obtain the rippability of the rock. While the evaluation of excavatability is carried out using the graphical method Pettifer and Fookes (1994), consider discontinuity spacing and point load index (IS(50)). The results show that the research that can be carried out is ripping, more economical and suitable for use at this site.
Improving the accuracy of the SRK/T formula in Chinese with implanting less than 10 D IOL calculated by the SRK/T formula: the SRK/T-Li formula
Authors: Li Shaowei , Li Xinxin , Liang Weiyan , Wu Zheming , Jia Yanhong , Ma Yanran , Chu Ling , Jin Tianru , Li Li , Li Qiumei , Qin Ming
Published: April 2023

Purpose To explore the accuracy of the improved SRK/T-Li formula in eyes following implantation of intraocular lens (IOL) of less than 10 D as calculated by using the SRK/T formula in Chinese.Methods A total of 489 eyes from 489 patients with cataracts were included in this study. These patients were divided into a training set (271 patients) and a testing set (218 patients). The IOL power calculated by using SRK/T was less than 10 D. We evaluated the accuracy of the modified SRK/T-Li formula (P = PSRK/T × 0.8 + 2 (P = implanted IOL power; PSRK/T = IOL power calculated by SRK/T)). We evaluated the mean absolute error (MAE), percentage of prediction error (PE) within ± 0.25, ± 0.50, and ± 1.00 D, and the percentage of postoperative hyperopia.Results The MAE values in order of lowest to highest were as follows: 0.412 D (SRK/T-Li), 0.414 D (Barrett Universal II, (BUII)), 0.814 D (SRK/T), and 1.039 D (Holladay 1). The percentage of PE within ± 0.25 D, ± 0.50 D, and ± 1.00 D was 38.99%, 69.27% and 92.66% (BUII), 40.83%, 69.27% and 94.04% (SRK/T-Li), 20.64%, 41.28% and 71.56% (SRK/T), and 7.34%, 16.51% and 53.21% (Holladay 1), respectively. SRK/T-Li had the smallest postoperative hyperopic shift.Conclusions For Chinese patients with an IOL power of less than 10 D as calculated by using the SRK/T, the SRK/T-Li has good accuracy and is the best choice to reduce postoperative hyperopic shift.
Spin polarization in the strongly interacting QCD matter at global and local equilibrium
Authors:   , Palermo Andrea
Published: April 2023

We study the polarization of relativistic fluids using the relativistic density operator at global and local equilibrium. In global equilibrium, a new technique to compute exact expectation values is introduced, which is used to obtain the exact polarization vector for fields of any spin. The same result has been extended to the case of massless fields. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that at local equilibrium not only the thermal vorticity but also the thermal shear contribute to the polarization vector. It is shown that assuming an isothermal local equilibrium, the new term can solve the polarization sign puzzle in heavy ion collisions.
Biosorption of pollutants from chemically derived wastewater using Microcoleus sp.
Authors: Kabir Md. Imran , Chowdhury Samin Azhan , Banik Bijit Kumar , Hoque Muhammad Azizul , Marzan Abdullah Al
Published: April 2023

Microcoleus sp. is a versatile microorganism widely available in the environment and easily culturable. Hence, there is a progressing demand for wastewater treatment using this novel biosorption medium. The design of such a treatment method may be defined as an optimisation problem of algal dose and hydraulic retention time for attaining an adequate removal efficiency of heavy metals (Cr6+, Ni2+, and Zn2+) and nutrients (PO43- and NO3-). Batch experiments on synthetic wastewater were conducted for algal doses varying from 0.5 to 25 g/L and hydraulic retention times from 1 to 7 days. Significant removal efficiencies of greater than 90% were observed for the heavy metals, 75% of PO43- removal, and no removal of NO3- was found under continuous daylight. The single-factor ANOVA test confirms the statistical significance of the varying parameters on the pollutant removal efficiency. Langmuir and Freundlich's adsorption isotherms indicate satisfactory adsorption of the contaminants about the separation factor and the adsorption intensity constant. The R2 > 0.67 and RMSE < 0.21 suggest a good fit of the modelled data. Following this, the study suggests that the use of Microcoleus sp. is a prospective bioremediation technique for industrial and municipal wastewater.
CRISPR/Cas9’s Major Role in Revolutionizing the Field of Cancer
Authors: Singh Agrata , Sharma Khushi , Abdulbaseer Uzma , Limon  Lopez Estevan , Sharma Ankit
Published: April 2023

Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR/Cas9) technology is
currently one of the most promising gene editing techniques. Gene-editing techniques allow various
alterations to the DNA sequence by either addition, deletion, or inversion. The two primary components
of this technique are the Cas9 endonuclease, which cuts the DNA strands at the specific target position
of the genome, and the guide RNA molecule (gRNA), which guides the Cas9 endonuclease to that target
portion. This technology is based on the adaptive immune system in prokaryotes, which prevents
the entry of viruses by integrating short virus sequences in the cell’s CRISPR locus and allowing it to
remember, recognize, and clear infections. The use of CRISPR technology in cancer biology is evolving
quickly and holds great promise for the development of cancer models, blocking drug resistance,
screening functional genes, gene editing, and CAR T cell therapy.
Prediction of Lumbar Pedicle Screw Loosening Using Hounsfield Units in
Computed Tomography
Authors: Muheremu Aikeremujiang , Shu Li , Ji Yuchen , Zhang Rui , Liu Wenge
Published: April 2023

Introduction:

One of the most common issues following pedicle screw fixation is pedicle screw loosening. There are, however, few trustworthy methods for predicting screw loosening. The goal of the current study was to identify an efficient technique for using preoperative CT scanning to predict screw loosening in older patients and to offer recommendations for preoperative surgical planning.

Methods:

The current analysis included retrospectively all patients who underwent lumbar pedicle screw fixation for degenerative lumbar diseases in our department between January 2015 and January 2022. Hounsfield units were used to assess each vertebra's attenuation in a CT scan (HU). Postoperative X-ray testing identified screw loosening. Using IBMSPSS 24.00 software, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis were performed.

Results:

Over a mean follow-up period of 28.4±11.5 (range 12-44 months) months, screw loosening was noted in 53 of 242 patients (136 male and 106 female, average age 58.7±7.3 years). Gender, BMI, smoking habits, and whether or not a patient had diabetes or spondylolisthesis were not shown to be significantly different among the patients (P>0.05). The difference between the average lumbar vertebral HU values in the screw-loosening group and the control group was significant (P<0.01) at 120.3±31.5HU and 138.6±37.6HU, respectively. The average HU value of L1-L4 exhibited an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.691 (95% CI: 0.614-0.784), according to ROC curve analysis. A HU cut-off value of 122 HU is a likely cut-off point to predict screw loosening with a sensitivity of 70% and a specificity of 58%.

Conclusion:

The use of screw augmentation techniques can be decided using a prospective CT scan HU value-based prediction. An independent risk factor for screw loosening in an instrumented lumbar vertebra is a cutoff L1-L5 average HU value of 122 HU.
Comparative Phytochemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity of
Citrus Peel Essential Oils and Phenolic Compounds
Authors: Alsakhawy Sara A. , Baghdadi Hoda H. , El‑Shenawy Moustafa A. , El‑Hosseiny Lobna S.
Published: April 2023

Background:

Antimicrobial resistance is imposing an alarming public health threat in regard to the irrational use of the currently available antibiotics and the lack of new antimicrobi-als.

Objective:

The current study aims to comparatively investigate the antimicrobial potential and phytochemical compositions of citrus peel essential oils (EOs) and phenolic compounds (PCs) as an approach to combat life-threatening bacterial and fungal infections.

Methods:

Citrus EOs and PCs were extracted from Citrus aurantifolia, Citrus reshni, Citrus lati-folia and Citrus paradisi peels and phytochemically characterized by GC-MS and HPLC, respec-tively. The antimicrobial potential of citrus peel EOs and PCs was tested against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Listeria monocytogenes, Escherichia coli O157:H7, Pseudomonas ae-ruginosa, Salmonella typhimurium and Candida albicans using disc diffusion and broth micro-dilution assays.

Results:

The compositional analysis of citrus peel EOs revealed that limonene was the major volatile constituent, comprising 81.38%, 79.39%, 76.40% and 52.35% of grapefruit, mandarin, orange and lemon EOs, respectively. In addition, naringenin was the most abundant PC in grape-fruit, orange and mandarin peel methanolic extracts, whereas catechin was the major PC in lemon peel. Lemon EO displayed the highest inhibitory effects against the investigated Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria as well as Candida albicans. Moreover, mandarin PCs exhibited the highest antibacterial effects, while orange PCs displayed the highest anticandidal effects. Fur-thermore, Gram-positive bacteria displayed higher sensitivity to both citrus peel EOs and PCs.

Conclusion:

Citrus peel extracts possess versatile bioactive compounds that can be utilized as promising antimicrobial candidates.

other:

-