bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Guiding the Implementation of Wastewater-based Surveillance for Carceral Infection Control with Perspectives from People with Lived Experience of Incarceration during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Brown Victoria M. , Ogutu Emily A. , Kauffman Alexandra E. , Kennedy Shanika S. , Tenner Rebecca A. , Wurcel Alysse G. , Zawitz Chad J. , Spaulding Anne C. , Akiyama Matthew J.
Published: May 2024

Background
Little guidance exists on best practices for implementing and sustaining wastewater-based surveillance (WBS) for SARS-CoV-2 in carceral settings. To ensure alignment with priorities of stakeholders, we aimed to understand the perspectives of persons with lived experience (PLE) of jail who were incarcerated during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic on infection control.
Methods
We recruited two PLE at each of four jails: Cook County (IL), Fulton County (GA), Middlesex County (MA), and Washington DC. Focus Group Discussion (FGD) guides followed the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). Two FGDs focusing on lived experience with jail infection control protocol and WBS were conducted, and six Key Informant (KI) interviews followed to gain insights on communicating WBS results. We used a combination of deductive thematic analysis based on CFIR constructs and inductive analysis to capture emergent themes.
Results
Themes from FGDs included: (1) variable experiences with COVID-19 infection control protocols including intake processes, individual testing, isolation and quarantine, (2) the perceived attitudes of fellow residents and staff surrounding COVID-19 mitigation in a carceral setting; and (3) perceived benefits and challenges involving WBS implementation and messaging. KIs emphasized 1) The importance of straightforward health messaging and trustworthiness in the communication of WBS results, 2) Support for enhanced health education around outbreaks, and 3) Receptiveness to WBS being used as a tool to measure common infectious agents (i.e., influenza) but hesitancy regarding its application to conditions such as HIV and illicit drug use. PLE articulated support of robust infection control programs and receptiveness to expanding WBS if conducted in a non-stigmatizing manner.
Conclusion
Perspectives from PLE can help shape the infection control programs for future outbreaks and inform the expansion of WBS implementation in carceral facilities. It will be important to consider the voices of current and former residents, as receivers of care, to promote an environment conducive to comprehensive infection control. In addition to having infection control programs consistently execute set protocols and educate all stakeholders, PLE identified collaboration between jail staff and residents, and clear communication around program expectations as priorities. Findings from this qualitative study can be shared with jail decision makers and the perceived engagement of stakeholders can be measured.
Niche-adjacent Type IV collagen promotes GLP-1/Notch receptor activation in the C. elegans germline
Authors: Narbonne Patrick , Martel Pier-Olivier , Degrémont Julia , Turmel-Couture Sarah , Dologuele Eden , Beaulieu Lucie , Clouet Alexandre
Published: May 2024

Basement membranes are thin and dense proteinaceous layers of specialized extracellular matrix that surround tissues to maintain their structure and function1. With age, chronic inflammation typically stiffens this basement membrane in a phenomenon called fibrosis, the progression of which is reflected by increasing levels of the basement membrane’s main component, type IV collagen (COL IV)2,3. Tissue fibrosis and elevated Notch signaling are two co-occurring hallmarks of many inflammation-linked diseases, including cancer3-6. Many reasoned that fibrosis may be a consequence of elevated Notch signaling, a belief that has led to Notch targeting antifibrotic therapy attempts7,8,9. Yet, the in vivo relationship between Notch activity and fibrosis has not been clearly defined. Here, we show that EMB-9/COL IV accumulation adjacent to the C. elegans germline stem cell niche promotes GLP-1/Notch receptor activation in germline stem cells. Increased Notch activity is therefore a consequence of high basement membrane COL IV contents. Moreover, we find that reducing GLP-1/Notch activity in vivo leads to a generalized dramatic increase in EMB-9/COL IV levels, and thereby promotes fibrosis. The generalized fibrosis that comes along with inflammaging may therefore act as a root cause for cancer by promoting Notch signaling, and perhaps more widely, many other ligand-receptor interactions.
A systematic map of machine learning in urban climate change mitigation
Authors: Hintz Marie Josefine , Milojevic-Dupont Nikola , Creutzig Felix , Kaack Lynn
Published: May 2024

To tackle the climate crisis, cities must reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions rapidly. To aid these efforts, many cities are
interested in leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning (ML). Researchers and practitioners, however, only begin to understand how ML can contribute to achieving climate targets in urban contexts. To provide an overview of application areas, and the potential leverage of ML to reduce GHG emissions, we systematically map research conducted over the past three
decades. We identify 1,206 relevant peer-reviewed records, and discover that research involving ML is expanding more rapidly
than the literature on urban climate mitigation more broadly. The research focus largely aligns with urban mitigation options
that the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change assessed as having high impact. We also find that research concentrates
on the ML-strong regions Eastern Asia, Europe, and Northern America. This regional focus can influence research agendas,
and we observed signs that this can lead to bias regarding which ML applications are pursued in urban climate action.
Indirect electrochemical titration of sulfur impurities in industrial phosphoric acid
Authors: HAMID Fatima Ezzahra , Oubaouz Mohamed , Haddouchy Hassan , Oukbab Mustapha , Loughmari Saliha , Tahiri Youness , Elqouatli Salah Eddine , Chtaini Abdelilah , Erradi Elmostafa
Published: May 2024

This article explores the corrosion aspects of L316 stainless steel in an environment composed of phosphoric acid extracted from natural phosphates from Morocco, in the presence of sulfate ions. L316 stainless steel is widely used in various industries, but its behavior in the presence of phosphoric acid and sulfate ions has attracted growing interest. The study was carried out using experimental techniques such as electrochemical tests like cyclic voltametry (VC), impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and Taffel curves (VL), surface analysis, and weight loss measurements. The results indicate that the presence of sulfate ions has a significant impact on the corrosion rate of L316 steel in the extracted phosphoric acid medium. Specific corrosion mechanisms were proposed and discussed on the basis of the experimental observations.
Society-based Infection Prevention and Control Guidelines after COVID-19: A Delphi Study.
Authors: Al-Hadid Lourance , Alnawafleh Ahmed , Alfarajat Loai , Barmawi Marwa Al
Published: May 2024

Background
Current infection prevention and control guidelines, protocols, and practices for public, outside healthcare facilities are not adequate by evidence of increasing rates of infections and outbreaks. This study proposed to formulate a consensus on the guidelines that would then govern future public health-related infection prevention and control practices.
Methods
A three-round Delphi technique to generate experts’ consensus on the development and required modifications of the current IPC guidelines to address public safety. Eighteen infection prevention and control practitioners and experts interviewed individually during the three rounds.
Results
Three themes identified during the first round. First, policies and regulations. Second, curricula reforms and education for all levels (such as kindergartens, schoolers, and the public). Third; content of IPC public manual. Results from Round I, II, and III changed a few subcategories until experts agreed on the themes and the subthemes. It is required that one department be responsible for providing IPC and the needed training of employees and public individuals in non-healthcare institutes.
Conclusion
It’s important to have one reference that provides IPC-related consultations to all, including the promotion of proper implementation of IPC guidelines as required by each industry. This includes unification of the assessment, evaluation, and follow-up of IPC issues in industries other than health facilities that involve human well-being.
Causality between alcohol consumption and schizophrenia: A bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Liu Song , Liu Xuzhen , Han Yong , Su Xi , Lv Luxian , Yang Yongfeng
Published: May 2024

Background: Observational studies have revealed an association between alcohol consumption and schizophrenia (SZ), and have identified high alcohol consumption as an independent risk factor for SZ. However, due to the limitations of observational studies, the causal relationship between SZ and alcohol consumption is unknown. This study used two-way Mendelian randomization (MR) to determine the causal relationship between alcohol consumption phenotype (drinks consumed per week, DPW) and SZ risk.
Methods: We conducted bidirectional MR analysis using the aggregate statistical data of a European individual genome-wide association study (GWAS). Causality was evaluated using the inverse variance weighting (IVW), MR-Egger, and weighted median methods. We also used the MR-Egger intercept to detect horizontal multiplicity, and conducted sensitivity analysis to evaluate the robustness of the results.
Results: High DPW did not increase the risk of SZ according to IVW, MR-Egger, and weighted median methods using 78 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from the GWAS database. Similarly, MR-Egger analysis with 123 SNPs revealed no causal effect of SZ on DPW (OR = 1.00, 95% Cl: 0.95–1.04, p = 0.92). However, both IVW and weighted median methods (n=123 SNPs) indicated that SZ increased DPW (OR = 1.01, 95% Cl: 1.00–1.02; p = 0.01 and p = 8.78 × 10-3, respectively). Further, MR-Egger regression showed that directional multiplicity did not bias the MR results (intercept = 9.70 × 10-4, p = 0.52), while leave-one-out sensitivity analysis indicated that no single SNP significantly influenced the association.
Conclusions: This MR study suggests that the genetic factors associated with SZ also increase the risk of excessive alcohol consumption. Interventions for reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption may improve the clinical management of SZ.
Using Digital Technologies to Promote Nursing Students' Learning in the Connected Classroom
Authors: Aljanabi Hameeda Matooq , Belal Safia , Breboneria Benjamin Joel , Alrajeh Ahmed Ben Mansur , Ghaly Asmaa Saber , Aljaber Nadia Yasein
Published: May 2024

BackgroundDigital technologies are becoming increasingly important in nursing education, and their impact on student learning must be explored. Technology improves nursing education and prepares students for the constantly changing healthcare business.AimThe study aims to explore the potential use of digital technologies in promoting nursing student engagement, and improving learning outcomes.DesignA mixed method of quasi-experimental design and narrative input design, were used to achieve the study aim and objectives.SampleA convenient sampling was used to collect all available student nurses who were in the six-level of undergraduate nursing program.Data CollectionA Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS, and qualitative data was summarized using coded and categorized inputs.ResultThe Word wall game, Padlet platform, and student feedback on digital technologies were positive.ConclusionThese tools were perceived as helpful, effective, and beneficial for enhancing the learning processes and experience, increasing motivation, and facilitating communication and collaboration.
Effect of preoperative cancer cachexia on postoperative sarcopenia in patients with non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Shirado Kengo , Okuno Shota , Kawamitsu Kenta , Kido Takashi , Eto Takako , Yasuda Manabu , Yamashita Toshihiro
Published: May 2024

Purpose
Many patients with lung cancer have cancer cachexia, which may result in complications and affect prognosis; however, its preoperative prevalence is unknown. Skeletal muscle mass loss after lung cancer surgery also affects prognosis. Although cachexia and sarcopenia share some similarities, whether preoperative cachexia affects postoperative sarcopenia is still unknown. Thus, we designed a cohort study of patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to investigate this.
Methods
Patients with NSCLC who underwent surgery and perioperative rehabilitation were included in this study. The prevalence of preoperative cachexia and association between preoperative cachexia and sarcopenia 1 month after surgery were tested using propensity-score matching. After matching, the regression analysis was performed to investigate whether preoperative cachexia was independently related to sarcopenia 1 month postoperatively.
Results
In total, 126 patients (73 men) aged 71 (67, 76) years were included in the study. Preoperative cachexia was present in 16 (12.7%) patients, and postoperative sarcopenia was present in 29 (23%) patients. Among the 126 patients, 16 and 32 patients were included in the preoperative cachexia and control groups, respectively, as a result of matching (standardized mean difference < 0.1). After matching, regression analysis showed that preoperative cachexia was independently associated with sarcopenia at 1 month postoperatively (Odd: 1.46, p = 0.020).
Conclusions
Among the patients with NSCLC, 12.7% had preoperative cachexia. Preoperative cachexia in patients with NSCLC affected sarcopenia 1 month postoperatively.
MADS-box transcription factors in durian (Durio zibethinus): genome-wide analysis and DzAGL6-1’s role in carotenoid biosynthesis
Authors: Tantisuwanichkul Kittiya , Komaki Shinichiro , Watanabe Mutsumi , Tohge Takayuki , Sirikantaramas Supaart
Published: May 2024

MADS-box transcription factors play a crucial role in regulating plant biological processes, including fruit ripening and associated events. This study aimed to understand the mechanisms involved in durian fruit ripening and carotenoid production by conducting a genome-wide analysis of MADS-box proteins in durian (Durio zibethinus L.), an economically important fruit in Southeast Asia. A total of 119 durian MADS-box proteins were identified from the genome of the ‘Musang King’ cultivar. Phylogenetic analysis classified these proteins into types I and II, displaying a similar conserved motif composition. Notably, only 16 durian MADS-box genes exhibited fruit-specific expression patterns. Among these, DzAGL6-1 was predominantly expressed during fruit development, the stage at which carotenoid biosynthesis is activated. Transient expression of DzAGL6-1 in tomato fruit increased the transcript level of the carotenoid biosynthetic gene phytoene synthase (PSY) and β-carotene content. Furthermore, DzAGL6-1 was found to directly bind to the promoter of DzPSY, as demonstrated by a dual-luciferase assay. These findings provide insights into the role of MADS-box transcription factors in regulating carotenoid accumulation during durian fruit development.
Experimental validation of a neuro-fuzzy controlled mobile manipulator for the inspection of automobile exhaust system
Authors: Gaber Amr Nasr A. E. , Eldrainy Yehia A. , Awad Taher H. , Kassem Ahmed
Published: May 2024

This study establishes a new strategy to locate the coordinates of a crack in an automobile exhaust system using a 6 Degree of Freedom (DOF) mobile robot manipulator, utilizing a fuzzy control model and an Artificial Neural Network (ANN). The fuzzy position control model was applied as an alternative to traditional inverse kinematics approaches, and an ANN was used to correct the position of the robot based on a manipulator workspace. A Carbon Dioxide (CO2) sensor was mounted on the base of the mobile robot to detect exhaust gas leakage. Several uncertain manipulator parameters affect precision and performance. These parameters are created from the tolerances and variations in the actuators and controls for production and assembly. To ensure manipulator end-effector location, a fuzzy control model with an Internet Protocol (IP) camera-based observational error model is applied to compensate for the robot parameter errors and improve the location accuracy of the robot manipulator. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control model, a simulation was implemented during the uncertainty in the robot link length. 6 DOF mobile robot manipulator was equipped at a low cost to help in the experimental validation to establish the robustness of the proposed controller in real-world applications.
Neuro-Developmental Trajectories of Preterm babies: A Cohort Study inJaffna district of Sri Lanka
Authors: Sathees Sasrubi , Sathiadas Manoji Gitanjali , Surenthirakumaran Rajendra , Arasaratnam Vasanthy
Published: May 2024

Background
Preterm babies are more likely to develop cognitive, language, and motor deficits.
Aim
To analyse the neuro-developmental attainments of the babies followed up to 18 months and to identify selected risk factors contributing to the neurodevelopmental delay.
Method
An institution-based cohort study was carried out among 167 babies born at 28+ 1 to 36+ 6 weeks gestation at Teaching Hospital, Jaffna, Sri Lanka. Neuro-development assessment was carried out using the Bayley Infant and Toddler III assessments at 3, 6, 12, and 18 months of their corrected age of prematurity.
Results
Trends of composite score of the cognitive domain increased from 3 to 6 months and continued to decrease till 18 months (p < 0.001), and language domain increased from 3 to 6 months and decreased at 12 months, and increased at 18 months (p = 0.529), while motor domain increased from 3 to 6 months, and continued to increase till 18 months (p < 0.001). Significant neuro-developmental delay was identified in 11 babies (6.6%). The risk factors considered for neurodevelopmental delay were children of employed mothers (OR: 1.354), born at very preterm (OR:1.460), treated for short-term complications (OR:2.337), admitted to NICU (OR:2.653), stayed at hospital for > 2weeks (OR:1.317), discharged from hospital with complications related to prematurity (OR:2.857) and re-hospitalized within 18 months (OR: 7.664).
Conclusion
Short-term complications influenced the neurodevelopment of preterm babies. Deterioration of cognitive composite scores highlights the need for cognitive stimulation of preterm infants.
Epidemiological analysis of human adenovirus in children diagnosed with acute respiratory tract infection.
Authors: abdullahi Khalid mohamoud , Ali Ahmed Faisal , shu Qiang , Li Wei , Wang Binghan , Guo Yajun
Published: May 2024

Background:
Human adenovirus (HAdV) is highly prevalent in children and associated with various diseases. Monitoring of the spread of HAdV species is crucial in many aspects (e.g. genomic surveillance).
Methods:
A total of 596 throat swabs were collected from pediatric patients diagnosed with acute respiratory tract infection in the outpatient department from July 2021 to January 2022. HAdV was detected using a real-time PCR method. HAdV hexon genes were amplified by PCR, sequenced, then analyzed, and compared with the public hexon genes of HAdV using a basic local alignment search tool (BLAST). Multiple sequence alignments were performed using ClustalW (DNASTAR 7). Phylogenetic analyses were conducted using the IQ-TREE. Statistical analysis was performed in the IBM SPSS Statistics.
Results:
52 (51.5%) males and 49 (48.5%) females tested positive for HAdV. The difference between the sexes was not significant. 82 HAdV-positive cases (81.2%) were below the age of six. The detection rate was not significant among various age groups. 80 patients (80.8%) were diagnosed with upper respiratory tract infection, 15 patients (15.2%) with bronchitis, 3 patients (3.0%) with gastroenteritis, and 1 patient (1.0%) with pneumonia. There was no statistically significant difference among different diagnoses.
Exploring antibiotic-induced persister formation and bacterial persistence genes in clinical isolates from Burkina Faso
Authors: Konkobo Augustin , Ouattara Abdoul Karim , Dabiré Amana Mètuor , Simporé Jacques
Published: May 2024

Background
In addition to antibiotic resistance, persistence is another cause of treatment failure in bacterial infections, representing a significant public health concern. Due to a lack of adequate data on clinical isolates, this study was initiated to investigate persistence in clinical isolates in Burkina Faso.
Methods
Eighty (80) clinical isolates, including 32 Pseudomonas aeruginosa, 41 Staphylococcus aureus, and 7 Salmonella sp. obtained from clinical laboratories in Burkina Faso, were analyzed to assess their susceptibility to ciprofloxacin and gentamicin, as well as to determine the presence of persistence genes. The effects of ciprofloxacin and gentamicin on persister formation were evaluated by conducting colony counts at 1, 3, 5, 7, and 20 hours after exposing the bacteria to high concentrations of these antibiotics.
Results
Results showed high sensitivity to both antibiotics (72.5% for ciprofloxacin and 82.5% for gentamicin). Persister formation occurred in Staphylococcus aureus with gentamicin and in Salmonella sp. with ciprofloxacin, while Pseudomonas aeruginosa did not form persisters. The mazF gene was found in 28.13% of P. aeruginosa and 2.44% of S. aureus isolates, and the hipA gene in 28.57% of Salmonella sp. None of the relE1 or relE2 genes were detected.
Conclusions
The study revealed high sensitivity in clinical bacterial isolates to ciprofloxacin and gentamicin. Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella sp. showed persister formation under antibiotic stress, with low frequencies of the studied persistence genes. These findings enhance understanding of clinical bacterial behavior and inform strategies against antibiotic-resistant infections.
Multi-method coal seam floor water inrush risk evaluation based on variable weight theory
Authors: Du Jiamin , Wu fuzhu , Sun Fuxun , Chen Gen , Jiang Feijun
Published: May 2024

Coal mine floor water inrush disasters triggered by deep mining of coal seams occur frequently, and the traditional water inrush risk evaluation methods are far from being able to meet the actual mining situation, with numerous new evaluation methods emerging continuously. The main control index evaluation system was based on the constant weights calculated by AHP method and CRITIC method, and the variable weight theory was applied to determine the variable weights of each index factor; the mathematical methods of weighted rank-sum ratio(WRSR) method and Grey-TOPSIS method were introduced and combined with the variable weight model, to establish the floor water inrush risk evaluation model based on the variable weight theory, and to draw the water inrush evaluation risk zoning map. Combined with the actual mining situation, the two mathematical evaluation methods based on variable weight theory obtained more accurate evaluation results, and compared with the method of water inrush coefficient, the diversification of index factors weakened the absolute control effect of water inrush threshold, made the evaluation results more systematic and comprehensive, provided a new method and a new way of thinking for the deep mining of the coal seam.
Validity of Self-Reported Number of Teeth among Independent Older People in Japan
Authors: Shimazaki Yoshihiro , Saito Mizuki , Nonoyama Toshiya , Inamoto Yoshinori
Published: May 2024

Background: In questionnaire surveys, questions about self-reported number of teeth (SRNT) are often used as an indicator to measure oral health status. We investigated the validity of SRNT among older Japanese people.
Methods: In total, 4984 75- and 80-year-old patients who underwent dental examinations were enrolled. A self-administered questionnaire that asked about the number of teeth was used in the analysis. The percentage agreement and kappa value were calculated for the agreement between SRNT and observed numbers of teeth. To identify factors that affect the reliability of SRNT, a logistic regression analysis was performed using correctness of SRNT as the dependent variable.
Results: Among the 3950 participants who responded as to whether they had ≥ 20 teeth, the degree of agreement was 92.9% (kappa value 0.856, p < 0.001) in an objective evaluation. Of the 2621 participants who reported their numbers of teeth, the SRNT and observed number of teeth matched in 57.5% (kappa value 0.559; p < 0.001). Observed number of teeth and annual dental checkup had a significant effect on the accuracy of SRNT. When analyzing the relationship between the number of teeth and smoking status, the estimated statistical value showing the effect of smoking on the number of teeth was lower in SRNT compared to that of the observed number of teeth.
Conclusion: Although SRNT values did not perfectly match the observed numbers of teeth, the results of this study imply that the SRNT of older people is reliable and useful in epidemiological studies.
Doped Holes and/or Electrons Induced Superconductivity Domes Explained with the Free Volume Concept
Authors: Hao Tian
Published: May 2024

The conductivity equation developed in our previous work without any restric-
tions to specific materials is employed to explore how superconductivity tran-
sition temperature Tc changes with the doped hole or electron concentrations
based on the free volume concept.
The predicted relationship is used to fit
experimental data available in the literature and a good agreement with obser-
vations is achieved. Our findings may provide an alternative explanation for
doping-induced domes and/or double domes with a-dip phenomena observed
among many superconductors.
Porous cellulose membrane for osmotic energy harvesting
Authors: Niu Shengyue , Yin Yuxin , Zhang Qianhong , Zhang Yu , Shi Jianping , Huang Liulian , Li Jianguo , Chen Lihui
Published: May 2024

Energy derived from the salinity gradient between seawater and river water is recognized as a sustainable energy source and an alternative solution for meeting the growing energy demand. The ion exchange membrane is essential for efficiently converting the osmotic energy of the salinity gradient into electrical energy. Herein, we reported a sustainable, porous cellulose membrane (PCM) by a doping-removing strategy of polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) during the fabricating process of the cellulose membrane. Such a strategy effectively optimizes the structure of cellulose membrane, such as improved porosity (from 66.2–89%), enlarged specific surface area (from 7.99 m2/g to 12.86 m2/g), and increased water retention value (from 113.4–141.1%). As a result, the developed PCM shows excellent ion transport capacity and selectivity with a high t+ of 0.88. The power density of PCM reaches up to 4.16 W/m2, substantially exceeding that of the primary cellulose membrane. Moreover, the PCM harvests osmotic energy very well with long-term stability, over 80000 s with continuous operation. The PCM, utilizing sustainable and low-cost natural materials, shows considerable promise for renewable osmotic energy harvesting.
A study of regional tourism-economy-ecological environment coupling and coordination relationships: Evidence from Xinjiang, China
Authors: Liu Haijun , Chen Beizi , Xia Qianqian , Zabi Gulnigar , Li Gaofeng
Published: May 2024

The synergistic integration of tourism, the economy, and the ecological environment within a region is crucial for promoting its sustainable development. Tourism acts as a catalyst for green economic growth, yet varying levels of tourism development can intensify the strain on the ecological environment. Thus, achieving a Pareto optimal balance among the benefits of these three entities holds significant theoretical and practical relevance. This research utilizes statistical data spanning from 2000 to 2021 to devise a tourism-economy-ecological environment (TEE) indicator system for Xinjiang. The study employs a coupled coordination model to analyze the spatial and temporal coupling dynamics between subsystems and to classify the types of coupled coordination. The analysis also identifies obstacles that impede the degree of coordination. The findings indicate that during the period under investigation, the TEE system in Xinjiang experienced consistent growth. However, the tourism subsystem exhibited disparate development and pronounced resource monopolization, which stimulated the economic subsystem's growth, albeit with noticeable developmental lags in the latter stages. Spatially, economic performance demonstrated a declining trend from core urban centers like Urumqi City and Karamay City towards peripheral areas. From an ecological perspective, the distribution of resources exhibited a heterogeneous "M-V-W" pattern, characterized by significant disparities in the availability of natural resources and the occurrence of localized ecological deterioration. There is a notable and increasing degree of coupled coordination in regional synergistic development, which is primarily manifested in the delayed development of tourism. The combined development of the three subsystems is influenced by some factors, including environmental pollution, resources, economic quality, and industrial structure. Soot emissions, green space per capita in parks, and sulfur dioxide emissions are identified as key constraints. This study provides theoretical backing and empirical evidence for economic growth, the optimization of industrial structure, and the preservation of the ecological environment in arid and semi-arid regions globally.
Technique and practice of surrounding rock control for the roadway driven under the goafs of small collieries and heading for adjacent advancing face
Authors: Niu Zhijun , Wang Xufeng , Wang Cong , Feng Zhiwei , Shen Chengyang
Published: May 2024

Aiming at the problems of complex stress and large deformations in the surrounding rocks of the roadway driven under the goafs of small collieries and heading for adjacent advancing coal face, by numerical modeling and field practice, the failure characteristics of the overlying coal and rocks were investigated, and the stopping and resuming times of the roadway excavation were identified. A zoning-based reinforcement technique was put forward and applied in engineering practice. The results showed that (1) The roadway roof was divided into four zones: “solid coal zone”, “residual pillar zone”, “roof caved zone”, and “roof un-caved zone”. (2) It was determined that the roadway excavation was stopped when the unmined distance between the return airway face and the 32101 working face was 70 m. After the 32101 working face passed the return airway face by 90 m, the roadway driving was restarted. (3) I.e. cable reinforcement for the “residual pillar zone” and bolt-wire mesh-cable-shotcreting-groutingreinforcement for the “roof failure zone” (“roof caved zone” + “roof un-caved zone”). The field observation results indicated that the maximum amount of the roof-to-floor convergence and the wall-to-wall convergence was 97 mm and 69 mm, respectively, which ensured the safety of roadway excavating.
Light intensity and photoperiod: Tools for improving the phytonutrient profile of Brassica rapa ssp. nipposinica for supplementing the space diet
Authors: Darby Ethan , Armstrong Sarah , Massa Gioia , Walters Kellie J.
Published: May 2024

Beyond mere caloric intake, the nutritional quality of food will be key to maintaining astronaut health during exploration-length missions. The production of leafy greens aboard spacecraft can help to provide consistent daily nutrition; however, maximizing the nutritional yield of each plant will be key to sustainable and efficient dietary supplementation. Brasssica rapa ssp. nipposinica ‘Red Hybrid’ was grown under environmental conditions similar to those of the International Space Station and the effect of light intensity and photoperiod on nutritional and biomass yields were evaluated. Four light intensities (200, 400, 600, and 800 µmol·m− 2·s− 1) applied over a 16- or 24-hr photoperiod were implemented and the resulting concentrations of ascorbic acid, thiamine, phylloquinone, β-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, total anthocyanins, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and iron were quantified. Providing 800 µmol·m− 2·s− 1 over a 16-hr photoperiod produced the best nutritional profile for supplementing the astronaut diet, offering the following percentages of recommended daily intake per 75 g serving: 100% phylloquinone, 63% ascorbic acid, 2.7% thiamine, and 97% retinol (from precursor β-carotene). However, when evaluated for light use efficiency (yield·MJ − 1), the 200 µmol·m− 2·s− 1 treatments (16- and 24-hr) performed better, yielding more mass and phytonutrients per MJ of energy utilized.
X-ray measurements of periarticular soft tissue predict readmission complications after total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Hu Hanwen , Tao Ye , 胡 瀚文 , Zhang Guoqiang , Ni Ming
Published: May 2024

Purpose
Obesity is widely recognized as a risk factor for osteoarthritis. This study aimed to explore the association between BMI and periarticular soft tissue readmission complications in patients who previously underwent joint replacement through the study of clinical and imaging data.
Methods
This retrospective study included 625 patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty. Imaging data included several measurable soft tissue values and ratios on the anteroposterior side. The associations between BMI and imaging soft tissue measurements and complications leading to readmission during follow-up were explored.
Results
A total of 761 preoperative imaging measurements and postoperative follow-up data were analyzed, and a significant correlation (P < 0.05) emerged between postoperative readmission complications and the soft tissue thickness around the joint. A 1:4 paired test confirmed the independent predictive power (P < 0.1) of the selected soft tissue data for readmission complications.
Conclusion
BMI was insufficient for evaluating obesity-related complications after total knee arthroplasty. Preoperative imaging soft tissue data exhibited superior predictive capability for predicting readmission complications after arthroplasty.
Accuracy of cup alignment in total hip arthroplasty – a comparison between the portable navigation and alignment guide
Authors: Tetsunaga Tomonori , Tetsunaga Tomoko , Yamada Kazuki , Takashi Koura , Inoue Tomohiro , Okuda Ryuichiro , Muguruma Sho , Ozaki Toshifumi
Published: May 2024

Background
Navigation systems, including portable navigation systems, used for total hip arthroplasty (THA) are useful for achieving higher cup alignment accuracy. NAVBIT, a newly available portable navigation system, uses a unique registration method, the table tilt registration. This retrospective study aimed to investigate whether THA with a portable navigation system in the lateral position with the flip technique is more accurate than THA with a cup alignment guide in the supine or lateral positions.
Methods
This retrospective study included 136 consecutive patients (105 women, 31 men; mean age, 66.4 years) who underwent primary cementless THA via an anterolateral approach. The accuracy of cup orientation was compared among the three registration methods using postoperative CT.
Results
The absolute value of the difference in cup inclination with the NAVBIT (2.6° ± 2.2°) was comparable to that with the cup alignment guide in the supine position (3.5° ± 2.5°) and smaller than that with the cup alignment guide in the lateral decubitus position (3.9° ± 2.7°). The absolute values of the difference in cup anteversion with the NAVBIT (2.2° ± 1.6°) were smaller than that with the cup alignment guide in the supine (3.7° ± 1.9°) and lateral decubitus positions (4.5° ± 3.4°). Eighty-one percent, 63.4%, and 48.8% were within 5° of the target angles in the navigation, supine alignment guide, and lateral alignment guide groups, respectively.
Conclusions
The accuracy of cup alignment with the portable navigation system using the flip technique was significantly higher than that with the cup alignment guide in the supine and lateral decubitus positions.
Feasibility Study of Hyperspectral Colposcopy as a Novel Tool for Detecting Precancerous Cervical Lesions
Authors: Vega Carlos , Medina Norberto , Quintana-Quintana Laura , Leon Raquel , Fabelo Himar , Rial Jorge , Martín Alicia , Callico Gustavo M.
Published: May 2024

Cervical cancer remains a major global health concern, with a specially alarming incidence in younger women. Traditional detection techniques such as the Pap smear and colposcopy often lack sensitivity and specificity and are highly dependent on the experience of the gynaecologist. In response, this study proposes the use of Hyperspectral Imaging, a pioneering technology that combines traditional imaging with spectroscopy to provide detailed spatial and spectral information. Over a period of six-months, our custom-designed hyperspectral colposcope was used on 62 patients. The gathered data underwent a specialized preprocessing workflow using a PCA-based strategy for unsupervised segmentation of the cervical region. This process extracted spectral signatures from various tissue types, and our subsequent statistical analysis highlighted its ability to detect differences and alterations in the cervical tissue. This offers a promising avenue for improving the precision of cervical lesion diagnosis.
Adsorption performance of harmful gas molecules over copper decorated aluminene: A DFT study
Authors: Hassan Muhammad , Ibrahim Iram , Majid Abdul , Buzdar Saeed Ahmad , Shaheen Humaira , Alarfaji Saleh S , Khan Muhammad Isa
Published: May 2024

Detecting hazardous and toxic gases and their removal from environment is essential for human health. 2D materials plays vital role for gas sensing or scavenging. Density functional theory (DFT) was applied to investigate the adsorption of six toxic gases (CO, COS, NO, NO2, CH4O, and CH2N2) on Cu-decorated Aluminene surface. Aluminene preserve its metallic character after copper decoration. The greater values of adsorption energy (-2.72 eV, -0.92 eV, -3.39 eV, -2.14 eV, -2.66 eV and − 2.95 eV respectively) proposed that Cu-decoration is favorable than pristine Aluminene. Electronic properties and adsorption energies suggested chemisorption behavior of CO, NO and NO2 while other gas molecules showed physisorption. Hybridization occurs between d-orbitals of the system and the gas molecules that improved the electronic properties. The study encompassed analyses of Density of States (DOS), charge distribution, Electron Localization Function (ELF), work function, and recovery time. Band gap found to be zero for the optimized system prior to and following gas adsorption. It represent good conductivity of the material, owing to the possibility of an efficient gas sensor. The recovery time analysis indicated that the material exhibited reversible gas sensing properties at high temperatures. At lower temperatures, it could potentially serve as a disposable sensor for industrial safety applications.
Acceptability and usability of a digital tool to support long-lasting insecticide-treated net distribution in Northern Bahr el Ghazal State, South Sudan
Authors: Khan Jamshed , Mubiru Denis , Chestnutt Elisabeth G. , Cook Louise , Rinny Lual Lual , Okot Francis , Chong Kediende , Tieng Matur T. , Zabbeh Tombari Prince , Okafor Joshua , Nnaji Chuks A.
Published: May 2024

Background: Long-lasting insecticide-treated nets (LLINs) have been the backbone of malaria prevention for decades. In South Sudan, LLINs are typically distributed by volunteers who use paper-based systems to collect distribution data. Paper-based systems are simple to use but have a higher occurrence of data inaccuracies and can hinder the timely use of data for decision making. In 2022, a digital tool was introduced to collect data during the LLIN campaign in Northern Bahr el Ghazal (NBeG). The tool aimed to improve the accuracy of data entry and enable data to be use in real-time for decision making during the campaign. This study assessed the acceptability and usability of the digital tool.
Methods: A questionnaire containing open and closed questions was conducted with users of the digital tool, supervisors and other key stakeholders in five counties of NBeG. The questionnaire was administered using Malaria Consortium’s Projects Results System Android mobile application. Usability was determined through a modified and validated System Usability Scale (SUS) approach and acceptability was assessed by responses to open questions.
Results: A total of 93 participants responded to the usability and acceptability questionnaire. The mean (±standard deviation) usability score across 10 SUS-scoring items was 60.91 (12.87), indicating a moderate level of usability. The majority of users reported the tool was useful for managing the LLIN distribution workflow, was easy to use, reduced workload, and supported stock management and real-time campaign monitoring. There was no significant difference in the usability scores across genders, roles, and counties. The digital tool was perceived to be acceptable, and the majority of respondents with experience of both paper-based and the digital tool reported a preference for the digital tool over paper-based systems. The majority of respondents also said they would recommend the digital tool to colleagues.
Conclusion: Digital tools are perceived to be beneficial for collecting data during LLIN campaigns, even in remote areas where network coverage is challenging. Additional improvements can be implemented to overcome operational challenges and improve usability of the tool. Further study is needed to determine the impact of the digital tool on data quality and real-time data use.
The effects of interactions between smoking and abdominal obesity on prediabetes mellitus
Authors: Xiong Huali , Ma Fengxun , Liu Daiqiang , Tang Dayi
Published: May 2024

Background: Few studies have investigated the interaction effect of smoking and abdominal obesity on the risk of prediabetes mellitus (PDM) among rural adults in Southwest China. The primary purpose of the current study was to investigate the potential interactive effects of smoking and abdominal obesity on the development of PDM.
Methods: The data were obtained from a cross-sectional survey conducted by a two-stage random sampling method around Rongchang District in ChongQing municipality, Southwest China, in 2022. In total, 3,017 participants aged 40 to 79 years were included in the study. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the associated risk factors for PDM, and the effects of multiplicative and additive interactions between smoking and abdominal obesity were also assessed by indicators including the relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI), the attributable proportion due to interaction (AP) and the synergy index (SI).
Results: A total of 3,017 individuals, with an average age of 62.14±11.13 years, participated in the present study, and the prevalence of PDM among the participants was 38.98%. After adjustments for confounding variables, current smoking status (OR=1.257, 95% CI: 1.041-1.518) and abdominal obesity (OR=1.403, 95% CI: 1.184-1.662) were significantly linked to an elevated risk of PDM. The multiplicative interaction analyses demonstrated that current smoking status was positively associated with PDM (OR=1.317, 95% CI: 1.013-1.711), while a similar association was not observed between abdominal obesity and PDM (OR=1.148, 95% CI: 0.943-1.396). A significant additive interaction was observed between current smoking and abdominal obesity in terms of PDM risk (OR=3.559, 95% CI: 2.544-4.978). RERI = 2.094 (0.952-3.236), indicating a coexisting risk attributable to additive interaction; AP = 0.589 (0.432-0.745), indicating that 58.90% of all PDM individuals exposed to both risk factors could be attributed to the synergistic effect of current smoking and abdominal obesity; SI = 5.509 (2.152-14.104), suggesting that the synergistic risk between current smoking and abdominal obesity was 5.509 times greater than the sum of effects observed in individuals exposed to a single factor alone.
Conclusion: The prevalence of PDM was 38.98% among individuals aged 40-79 years in Rongchang, potentially indicating a greater future incidence of diabetes mellitus. Notably, smoking and abdominal obesity exhibit a positive synergistic effect on the risk of PDM.
Caregivers’ Perceived Threat of Sickle Cell Disease Complications and Hydroxyurea Use Among Health Insured Children with Sickle Cell Disease in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania: an Analytical Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ally Mwashungi , Kakoko Deodatus , Swai Calvin , Metta Emmy , Yonaz Mbonea , Makani Julie , Mmbaga Elia , Leshabari Melkizedeck , Moen Kåre , Omsland Tone Kristen , Balandya Emmanuel
Published: May 2024

Background
Tanzania is among the five countries with the highest prevalence of sickle cell disease (SCD) globally. Although hydroxyurea (HU) is available, only a quarter of persons with SCD are reported to use it in Tanzania. Perceived disease threat is associated with medication usage in patients with chronic diseases. We assessed the factors associated with caregivers’ perceived threat of SCD complications and its relationship with HU use among health-insured children with SCD attending clinics in Dar-es-Salaam.
Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional hospital-based study from May to August 2023. We enrolled 374 caregivers of health-insured children with SCD from 4 public SCD clinics. The modified original and revised Champion’s Health Belief Model Scales were used to derive scores for the main outcomes (perceived susceptibility, severity, and threat of SCD; highest possible score, corresponding to the largest perceived threat = 765). Mann-Whitney and Kruskal Wallis tests were used for comparisons of the outcomes across sociodemographic characteristics. Regression analysis of factors associated with perceived SCD threat, and Poisson regression for analysis of association between perceived threat and HU usage were conducted.
Results
The median scores (InterQuartale Range) for perceived susceptibility, severity, and threat of SCD complications were 13 (7, 14), 39 (26, 44), and 559 (175, 598), respectively. Sixty-one percent of caregivers had high SCD perceived threat. The caregivers of under-five children had 141 lower median SCD threat scores compared to those of children aged 13–17 years, p-value < 0.001. Participants from Regional Referral Hospitals had lower median threat scores compared to participants attending Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH), 177 for Amana, 325 Temeke, 585 MNH Mloganzila, and 557 MNH Upanga, p-value < 0.001. Children of caregivers with high perceived SCD threat were 3.4 times more likely to use HU compared to those with low SCD threat perception (Incidence Rate Ratio 3.4, 95% CI: 2.7–4.5, p-value < 0.001).
Conclusion
Perceived threat of SCD predicts the likelihood of SCD patients using HU in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. We recommend health education to caregivers aiming to improve their SCD threat perception and thus improve the use of HU among children with SCD in similar settings.