bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Checklist of Basidiomycota and New Records from the Azores Archipelago
Authors: Souto Martin , Raposeiro Pedro Miguel , Balibrea Ana , Gonçalves Vítor
Published: March 2024

This paper presents an annotated checklist of the Basidiomycota taxa (including lichenicolous fungi and the subdivision Pucciniomycotina) from the Azores archipelago and reviews the published records to account for their taxonomic status. The number of Basidiomycota species recorded in the Azores has increased considerably during the 20th century and now stands at 544 species. This study provides distribution data and includes changes in the nomenclature of the listed taxa. Sampling campaigns contributed to 116 new records of Basidiomycota for the Azores archipelago. In addition, there were new records for eight islands: 162 species found for the first time on São Miguel Island, 55 species new to Santa Maria Island, 33 species new to Flores Island, 15 species new to Terceira Island, 9 species new to Pico Island, 17 species new to São Jorge Island, 4 species new to Graciosa Island, and 2 species new to Corvo Island. The transformation of vegetation cover in the archipelago has been very drastic, and this is reflected in the presence of many foreign fungal species on the islands. From these data, we conclude that within Macaronesia, the diversity of Basidiomycota in the Azores is more similar to that in Madeira than in the Canary Islands.
A Comprehensive Review of Disease-Causing Agents in Freshwater Turtles: Implications for Conservation and Public Health
Authors: Rato João , Xavier Raquel , Harris D. James , Banha Filipe , Anastácio Pedro
Published: March 2024

Freshwater turtles comprise 81% of all chelonian species despite freshwater systems only occupying 1% of the earth’s surface, and they are commonly exploited as pets and food resources. This contact between humans and turtles may put both sides at risk of disease transmission. Additionally, human impact on ecosystems can cause disease outbreaks in turtle populations. In this review, we focused on disease agents affecting freshwater turtles, intending to contribute to conservation and public health efforts. We analysed 423 articles and noted a post-SARS-COVID-19 peak, with most research originating from Asia, North America, and Europe. Emydidae was the most frequently studied family, and there was also a bias towards adults, live specimens, and native species. Since most of the studied turtles were wild-caught, we recommend that captive turtles should also be thoroughly studied since they can transmit diseases to other turtles and humans. We registered 2104 potential disease-causing agents, with Platyhelminthes dominating within Animalia, while Proteobacteria dominated bacterial agents. Viruses’ representation was low, highlighting gaps in reptile virology. Fungi, Chromista, and Protozoa were also underrepresented, but this is changing with the development of molecular tools. This synthesis serves as a foundation for targeted health assessments, conservation strategies, and future research, essential to mitigate ecosystem and public health threats.
Evaluation of Two-Assay Serological Testing Strategies for Anti-HCV Screening in Italian Populations: A Dual Screening Approach
Authors: Zocca Elena , Seraceni Silva , Cafaro Teresa , Cervone Tamara Emanuela , Cardarelli Laura , Valisi Massimiliano , Polidori Isabella , Pieri Massimo , Tomassetti Flaminia , Broccolo Francesco
Published: March 2024

(1) Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) screening mostly uses a one-assay anti-HCV testing approach, which has a higher probability of false-positive results in populations with low HCV prevalence. (2) Methods: In this investigation, 17,926 participants were screened for HCV, and the reactives were tested using a two-assay anti-HCV approach: Elecsys ElectroChemiLuminescence (ECL) and a ChemiLuminescence ImmunoAssay (CLIA), respectively. A recombinant immunoblot assay (RIBA) was performed to confirm anti-HCV positivity. Statistical analysis was performed. (3) Results: A total of 350 specimens were reactive in the ECL screening, of which CLIA retesting showed that 292 (83.4%) were anti-HCV reactive (283 positives, 9 indeterminate, none negative by RIBA), but 58 (16.6%) were not anti-HCV reactive (15 positive, 12 indeterminate, 31 negatives by RIBA). The two-assay strategy significantly improved the positive predictive value (PPV: 95.00%) with χ2: 7.59 (p < 0.01) compared to the PPV assessed by one assay (PPV: 90.6%) with χ2: 34.51 (p < 0.001). The ROC curve defined a sensibility and specificity for the dual approach of 99.66% and 100.00%. (4) Conclusions: Compared with a one-assay testing strategy, the two-assay testing strategy may significantly reduce false positives in anti-HCV testing and identify inactive HCV infection in low seroprevalence populations.
Gender, Equity, and Science Writing: Examining Differences in Undergraduate Life Science Majors’ Attitudes toward Writing Lab Reports
Authors: Palmer Kristy M. , Perkins Mark A. , Slater Timothy F.
Published: March 2024

It is often causally generalized that females naturally excel more at writing than males. Contrastingly, modern conventional wisdom similarly purports that males often innately excel more at science. True or not, both generalizations overlook important gender differences at the intersection of writing in science. This quantitative study investigates undergraduate life science majors’ attitudes to and perceptions of writing lab reports for 294 students who self-identify as either female or male. We used exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses to develop a three-factor scale and provide reliability and validity on several related constructs: confidence, sense of belonging, and persistence as a life science major. Our results indicate males self-report as being significantly more confident at writing lab reports (F (1, 292) = 186.08, p < 0.05) than females. With regard to writing lab reports, no significant differences were found between genders in the constructs of belongingness (F (1, 292) = 1.64, p = 0.20) and persistence as a life science major (F (1, 292) = 0.66, p = 0.42). Understanding attitudes and perceptions toward writing lab reports through an equity lens provides information to help science majors be successful. Our findings add to the literature on gender, equity, and science writing, motivating further exploration into underlying malleable cognitive mechanisms.
Drift Adaptive Online DDoS Attack Detection Framework for IoT System
Authors: Beshah Yonas Kibret , Abebe Surafel Lemma , Melaku Henock Mulugeta
Published: March 2024

Internet of Things (IoT) security is becoming important with the growing popularity of IoT devices and their wide applications. Recent network security reports revealed a sharp increase in the type, frequency, sophistication, and impact of distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks on IoT systems, making DDoS one of the most challenging threats. DDoS is used to commit actual, effective, and profitable cybercrimes. The current machine learning-based IoT DDoS attack detection systems use batch learning techniques, and hence are unable to maintain their performance over time in a dynamic environment. The dynamicity of heterogeneous IoT data causes concept drift issues that result in performance degradation and automation difficulties in detecting DDoS. In this study, we propose an adaptive online DDoS attack detection framework that detects and adapts to concept drifts in streaming data using a number of features often used in DDoS attack detection. This paper also proposes a novel accuracy update weighted probability averaging ensemble (AUWPAE) approach to detect concept drift and optimize zero-day DDoS detection. We evaluated the proposed framework using IoTID20 and CICIoT2023 dataset containing benign and DDoS traffic data. The results show that the proposed adaptive online DDoS attack detection framework is able to detect DDoS attacks with an accuracy of 99.54% and 99.33% for the respective datasets.
Effects of Fermented Goat Milk on Adiposity and Gut Microbiota in a Diet-Induced Obesity Murine Model
Authors: Marquez Antonela , Russo Matías , Tomei Carlos , Castellano Patricia , Puglisi Edoardo , Medina Roxana , Gauffin-Cano Paola
Published: March 2024

The administration of goat milk fermented (FGM) with Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. indicus CRL1447 and supplemented with different mixes of lactobacilli strains (Mix1: Limosilactobacillus fermentum CRL1446 + Lactiplantibacillus paraplantarum CRL1449 + Lactiplantibacillus paraplantarum CRL1472; Mix2: CRL1446 + CRL1449; Mix3: CRL1446 + CRL1472; and Mix4: CRL1449 + CRL1472) was investigated regarding body weight, metabolic and inflammatory parameters, and gut microbiota (GM) composition in mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD). Body weight gain, adipocyte size, fasting blood glucose, serum triglyceride, and leptin levels were significantly reduced in the group fed FGM+Mix3 compared with the obese mice fed FGM. FGM+Mix2 and FGM+Mix3 modified the GM composition, reversing the dysbiosis caused by the HFD. Although there were no significant changes at the phylum level, the GM composition was significantly changed at the family and genus levels. Results suggest that the administration of FGM+Mix3 improves metabolic and immune profiles in obese mice while positively modulating the GM, therefore attenuating the risk factors associated with obesity.
The Varieties of Agency in Human–Smart Device Relationships: The Four Agency Profiles
Authors: Toivonen Heidi , Lelli Francesco
Published: March 2024

This paper investigates how users of smart devices attribute agency both to themselves and to their devices. Statistical analyses, tag cloud analysis, and sentiment analysis were applied on survey data collected from 587 participants. As a result of a preliminary factorial analysis, two independent constructs of agency emerged: (i) user agency and (ii) device agency. These two constructs received further support from a sentiment analysis and a tag cloud analysis conducted on the written responses provided in a survey. We also studied how user agency and device agency relate to various background variables, such as the user’s professional knowledge of smart devices. We present a new preliminary model, where the two agency constructs are used to conceptualize agency in human–smart device relationships in a matrix composed of a controller, collaborator, detached, and victim. Our model with the constructs of user agency and device agency fosters a richer understanding of the users’ experiences in their interactions with devices. The results could facilitate designing interfaces that better take into account the users’ views of their own capabilities as well as the capacities of their devices; the findings can assist in tackling challenges such as the feeling of lacking agency experienced by technologically savvy users.
Influence of Long-Chain Amylopectin on Physicochemical and External Digestion Properties of Glutinous Rice in Zongzi
Authors: Li Guangquan , Chen Ling , Xu Feifei , Liu Fei , Chen Maoshen , Zhong Fang
Published: March 2024

Zongzi, made from glutinous rice, is usually thought to stay in the stomach for a long time, causing many people to shy away. In our research, Zongzi was prepared from three indica glutinous rice samples, and three japonica glutinous rice samples were digested in vitro in a human gastric simulator (HGS). It was found that digestion performance in HGS (gastric emptying) was mainly related to the hardness and stickiness of texture properties, and surprisingly, the hardness and stickiness of Zongzi were positively correlated, which contradicts past perception. Through the extraction and analysis of the coated layer on the surface of glutinous rice grains in Zongzi, the main source of its stickiness was the entanglement between the long chains of leached amylopectin molecules. The hardness was also mainly due to the high proportion of long chains in its glutinous rice starch, which made it difficult to gelatinize. Studies suggested that stickiness gradually disappeared during digestion, while hardness had a longer impact on digestive performance. The indica glutinous rice Zongzi with a higher long-chain level showed a higher resistant-starch (RS) level and slow hydrolysis in the intestinal digestion stage. Therefore, the texture and digestibility of Zongzi can be adjusted by changing the molecular structure of glutinous rice starch.
Identifying the Potential of Old and Rustic Pig Breeds: Basque Black Pied for Crafting High-Quality Cured Food Products
Authors: Beriain María José , Fernandez-Pan Idoya
Published: March 2024

The Basque Black Pied breed (BBP breed) is a rustic and old pig breed, well adapted to the environmental and productive conditions of the Navarre mountains. Nonetheless, the threat of competition from other, more productive breeds has pushed this local pig to the brink of extinction. A study has been conducted to assess the quality of cured products derived from the meat of this breed. For this purpose, the characteristics of the BBP breed pig carcasses and the organoleptic quality of the cured raw products have been studitab;eed and compared with those obtained from the 50% Large White × 25% Landrace × 25% Piétrain breed (LWLP breed) used as a control. Comparatively to pigs of the LWLP breed, carcasses of the BBP breed showed lower percentages of lean meat and higher percentages of fat coverage, loins, and intramuscular fat content. Expert judges evaluated the appetizing aroma and flavor of the cured raw products from the BBP breed, their texture, and their general impression. The scores of sensory attributes shown by the sausages (the “Sarta” and “Vela” chorizos) indicate the necessity of optimizing and personalizing their curing process to realize the full potential of the distinctive meat.
Ophiocephalus striatus Extract Supplementation Decreases Serum IL-6 Levels in Older People with Sarcopenia—A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Riviati Nur , Legiran Legiran , Saleh Irsan , Indrajaya Taufik , Ali Zulkhair , Irfannuddin  , Probosuseno
Published: March 2024

Sarcopenia, a condition characterized by muscle loss and decreased function in older adults, is a growing public health concern. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Ophiocephalus striatus extract on insulin-like growth factor-1 serum, interleukin-6 serum levels, and sarcopenia-related parameters in older adults with sarcopenia. This double-blind randomized controlled trial included 80 older adults with sarcopenia. Participants were randomly assigned to receive Ophiocephalus striatus extract or a placebo for two weeks. The IGF-1 serum and IL-6 serum levels were assessed as primary outcomes. The Ophiocephalus striatus extract intervention resulted in a significant reduction in serum IL-6 levels. Although the IGF-1 levels did not show significant changes, there was an increase for the intervention group. This study demonstrated that a 2-week intervention with Ophiocephalus striatus extract positively impacted the serum IL-6 levels in older adults with sarcopenia. While the IGF-1 levels did not change significantly in this short intervention period, the observed improvements in IGF-1, calf circumference, muscle mass, and muscle strength are promising. The findings suggest that Ophiocephalus striatus extract may offer a valuable intervention for managing sarcopenia, particularly in regions with abundant Ophiocephalus striatus production, such as South Sumatera. This study was registered with trial number NCT05869383.
Health Workers’ Responses to COVID-19 Pandemic’s Impact on Service Delivery to Adolescents in HIV Treatment in Cape Town, South Africa: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Mayman Yolanda , Crowley Talitha , van Wyk Brian
Published: March 2024

Adolescents living with HIV (ALHIVs) are considered a priority population in the fight against HIV, requiring dedicated services. The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent disruptions deprived ALHIVs on antiretroviral therapy (ART) of the care and social support essential for treatment adherence and positive treatment outcomes. This study describes health managers’ and healthcare workers’ responses to the impact of COVID-19 on service delivery to ALHIVs in HIV treatment in the Cape Town Metropole. A descriptive qualitative design was employed, where semi-structured individual interviews (n = 13) were conducted with senior and programme managers as well as healthcare workers between April and October 2023. Inductive thematic analysis was performed using Atlas.ti version 23. Two main themes emerged from these interviews: “HIV service delivery to adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic” and “Lessons learnt—the way forward”. The de-escalation of health services at primary health facilities and the disruption of HIV services resulted in disengagement from care by ALHIVs, increasing mental health and treatment challenges. This warrants the restoration of psychosocial support services and the re-engagement of ALHIVs. The findings from this study can function as a guide for health systems and healthcare providers to navigate future pandemics to ensure that vulnerable populations such as ALHIVs continue to receive care and treatment.
Exploring the Landscape of Breast Cancer Prevention among Chinese Residents in Italy: An In-Depth Analysis of Screening Adherence, Breast Self-Examination (BSE) Practices, the Role of Technological Tools, and Misconceptions Surrounding Risk Factors and Symptoms
Authors: Conte Luana , Lupo Roberto , Sciolti Serena , Lezzi Alessia , Rubbi Ivan , Botti Stefano , Carvello Maicol , Fanizzi Annarita , Massafra Raffaella , Vitale Elsa , De Nunzio Giorgio
Published: March 2024

Background: Breast cancer remains a significant health concern among women globally. Despite advancements in awareness and diagnostic techniques, it persists as a leading cause of death, with profound impacts on affected individuals’ quality of life. Primary and secondary prevention, including regular screenings and practices like breast self-examination (BSE), are pivotal in ensuring early diagnosis. The national health system (NHS) in Italy offers screenings for women aged 50–69 every two years, managed by the local health authority. However, the participation rates, especially among the Chinese female population residing in Italy, are not well understood. Methods: Using a snowball method, we electronically disseminated a survey to investigate how Chinese women living in Italy engage with available NHS screening programs. The survey also explores their practice of BSE and the use and impact of technological tools on prevention. Furthermore, the study aims to understand the subjects’ depth of knowledge and misconceptions about breast cancer. Results: The data reveal a significant gap in breast cancer screening adherence and knowledge among Chinese women in Italy, with a notable discrepancy between the general population and those who have previously encountered cancer. Conclusions: The results highlight the urgent need for interventions that are culturally sensitive, stressing that these actions are not only desirable but essential.
PKC Inhibition Improves Human Penile Vascular Function and the NO/cGMP Pathway in Diabetic Erectile Dysfunction: The Role of NADPH Oxidase
Authors: El Assar Mariam , La Fuente José M. , Sosa Patricia , Fernández Argentina , Pepe-Cardoso Augusto J. , Martínez-Salamanca Juan I. , Rodríguez-Mañas Leocadio , Angulo Javier
Published: March 2024

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a frequent and difficult-to-treat condition in diabetic men. Protein kinase C (PKC) is involved in diabetes-related vascular and cavernosal alterations. We aimed to evaluate the role of PKC in endothelial dysfunction and NO/cGMP impairment associated with diabetic ED in the human corpus cavernosum (CC) and penile resistance arteries (PRAs) and the potential mechanisms involved. Functional responses were determined in the CC and PRAs in patients with non-diabetic ED and diabetic ED undergoing penile prosthesis insertion. PKC activator 12,13-phorbol-dibutyrate (PDBu) impaired endothelial relaxations and cGMP generation in response to acetylcholine in the CC from non-diabetic ED. PDBu also impaired responses to a PDE5 inhibitor, sildenafil, in non-diabetic ED patients. Conversely, a PKC inhibitor, GF109203X, improved endothelial, neurogenic, and PDE5-inhibitor-induced relaxations and cGMP generation only in the CC in diabetic ED patients. Endothelial and PDE5-inhibitor-induced vasodilations of PRAs were potentiated only in diabetes. Improvements in endothelial function in diabetes were also achieved with a specific inhibitor of the PKCβ2 isoform or an NADPH-oxidase inhibitor, apocynin, which prevented PDBu-induced impairment in non-diabetic patients. PKC inhibition counteracted NO/cGMP impairment and endothelial dysfunction in diabetes-related ED, potentially improving response to PDE5 inhibition.
Enhancing Tractor Stability and Safety through Individual Actuators in Active Suspension
Authors: Son Jinho , Kim Yeongsu , Kang Seokho , Ha Yushin
Published: March 2024

Tractor overturning accidents are a prominent safety concern in the field of agriculture. Many studies have been conducted to prevent tractor overturning accidents. Rollover protective structures and seat belts currently installed on tractors cannot prevent them from overturning. The posture of a tractor was controlled by installing individual actuators. The overturning angles of the tractor equipped with an actuator were compared with those of a tractor with no actuator. For the overturning angles in all directions of the tractor, it rotated 15° from 0° to 345°, and the actuator height suitable for the tractor posture was controlled by establishing an equation according to the tractor posture. Consequently, posture control using actuators was noticeably improved. This study proposes that tractors operating on irregular and sloping terrain be equipped with individual actuators. These results prevent tractor rollover accidents and improve safety and driving stability.
Exploring the Links between Physical Activity, Emotional Regulation, and Mental Well-Being in Jordanian University Students
Authors: Al-Wardat Mohammad , Salimei Chiara , Alrabbaie Hassan , Etoom Mohammad , Khashroom Malak , Clarke Chantelle , Almhdawi Khader A. , Best Talitha
Published: March 2024

Background: University students face multiple stressors that negatively impact their mental well-being. Effective emotional regulation and physical activity are crucial for mood management and overall health. This study explored the connection between physical activity, emotional regulation, and mental health symptoms (depression, anxiety, and stress) in Jordanian university students. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey involved 416 students (146 male and 270 female) from Jordanian universities. The survey covered demographics, physical activity (International Physical Activity Questionnaire), emotional regulation strategies (Emotion Regulation Questionnaire), and mental health symptoms (Depression Anxiety Stress Scales). Pearson’s correlations examined relationships, and ANOVA compared differences in ‘low’, ‘medium’, and ‘high’ physical activity groups. Results: Greater use of expressive suppression was correlated with increased anxiety symptom severity (p = 0.029). Although physical activity levels were not significantly related to emotional regulation, the ‘high’ physical activity group reported lower depression (p < 0.001) and anxiety symptom severity (p < 0.001) than the ‘low’ and ‘medium’ groups. Conclusions: Increased physical activity and emotional expression suppression are independently associated with improved mental well-being in Jordanian university students. This study underscores the importance of integrating physical activity and emotional expression strategies to support student well-being.
Association of Malnutrition with Surgical and Hospital Outcomes after Spine Surgery for Spinal Metastases: A National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Study of 1613 Patients
Authors: Elsamadicy Aladine A. , Havlik John , Reeves Benjamin C. , Sherman Josiah J. Z. , Craft Samuel , Serrato Paul , Sayeed Sumaiya , Koo Andrew B. , Khalid Syed I. , Lo Sheng-Fu Larry , Shin John H. , Mendel Ehud , Sciubba Daniel M.
Published: March 2024

Background: Malnutrition is a common condition that may exacerbate many medical and surgical pathologies. However, few have studied the impact of malnutrition on surgical outcomes for patients undergoing surgery for metastatic disease of the spine. This study aims to evaluate the impact of malnutrition on perioperative complications and healthcare resource utilization following surgical treatment of spinal metastases. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the 2011–2019 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Adult patients with spinal metastases who underwent laminectomy, corpectomy, or posterior fusion for extradural spinal metastases were identified using the CPT, ICD-9-CM, and ICD-10-CM codes. The study population was divided into two cohorts: Nourished (preoperative serum albumin values ≥ 3.5 g/dL) and Malnourished (preoperative serum albumin values < 3.5 g/dL). We assessed patient demographics, comorbidities, intraoperative variables, postoperative adverse events (AEs), hospital LOS, discharge disposition, readmission, and reoperation. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the factors associated with a prolonged length of stay (LOS), AEs, non-routine discharge (NRD), and unplanned readmission. Results: Of the 1613 patients identified, 26.0% were Malnourished. Compared to Nourished patients, Malnourished patients were significantly more likely to be African American and have a lower BMI, but the age and sex were similar between the cohorts. The baseline comorbidity burden was significantly higher in the Malnourished cohort compared to the Nourished cohort. Compared to Nourished patients, Malnourished patients experienced significantly higher rates of one or more AEs (Nourished: 19.8% vs. Malnourished: 27.6%, p = 0.004) and serious AEs (Nourished: 15.2% vs. Malnourished: 22.6%, p < 0.001). Upon multivariate regression analysis, malnutrition was found to be an independent and associated with an extended LOS [aRR: 3.49, CI (1.97, 5.02), p < 0.001], NRD [saturated aOR: 1.76, CI (1.34, 2.32), p < 0.001], and unplanned readmission [saturated aOR: 1.42, CI (1.04, 1.95), p = 0.028]. Conclusions: Our study suggests that malnutrition increases the risk of postoperative complication, prolonged hospitalizations, non-routine discharges, and unplanned hospital readmissions. Further studies are necessary to identify the protocols that pre- and postoperatively optimize malnourished patients undergoing spinal surgery for metastatic spinal disease.
Performance of Primary Care Physicians in the Management of Glycemia, Lipids, and Blood Pressure among People with Type 2 Diabetes: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Vlacho Bogdan , Fernandez-Camins Berta , Canudas-Ventura Albert , Rodríguez Andrés , Mollo Àngels , Cos Claramunt Francesc Xavier , Antentas Maria , Mauricio Dídac , Franch-Nadal Josep
Published: March 2024

Background: Our study aimed to evaluate the performance of primary healthcare physicians (PCPs) in managing glycemia, lipids, and blood pressure in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Catalonia, Spain. Methods: We included 3267 PCPs with 367,132 T2DM subjects in a cross-sectional analysis of the SIDIAP (Sistema d’Informació per al Desenvolupament de la Investigació en Atenció Primària) database for the year 2017. Results: 63.1% of PCPs were female, with an average practice size of 1512 subjects. T2DM individuals had a mean (standard deviation) age of 70 (±12.2) years old, a mean body mass index (BMI) of 30.2 (±5.21) kg/m2, and a median diabetes duration of 8.8 years. Overall, 42.6% of subjects achieved target glycemic control (glycated hemoglobin < 7%). Notably, 59.2% maintained blood pressure < 140/90 mmHg during the 12-month study period. The multivariable analysis identified positive associations between glycemic control and female PCPs, practice sizes (1000–1500 people), a higher proportion of patients aged ≥ 65 years, and rural practices. Combined glycemic, lipid, and blood pressure target attainment was associated with medium-sized practices and those with a higher proportion of patients aged ≥ 65 years. Conclusions: Practice size, patient age distribution, and rurality are factors associated with the performance of PCPs in the control of glycemia, lipids, and blood pressure in T2DM subjects in primary health care centers in our region.
Intraoperative Ketorolac and Outcomes after Ovarian Cancer Surgery
Authors: Luyckx Mathieu , Verougstraete Céline , Jouret Mathieu , Sawadogo Kiswendsida , Waterkeyn Marc , Grandjean Frédéric , Van Gossum Jean-Paul , Dubois Nathanael , Malvaux Vincent , Verreth Lucie , Grandjean Pascale , Jadoul Pascale , Maillard Charlotte , Gerday Amandine , Dieu Audrey , Forget Patrice , Baurain Jean-François , Squifflet Jean-Luc
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Surgery is the cornerstone of ovarian cancer treatment. However, surgery and perioperative inflammation have been described as potentially pro-metastagenic. In various animal models and other human cancers, intraoperative administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) appears to have a positive impact on patient outcomes. Materials and methods: In this unicentric retrospective study, we provide an exploratory analysis of the safety and potential benefit of intraoperative administration of ketorolac on the outcome of patients undergoing surgery for ovarian cancer. The study population included all patients who were given a diagnosis of ovarian, fallopian tube or peritoneal cancer by the multidisciplinary oncology committee (MOC) of the Cliniques universitaires Saint-Luc between 2015 and 2020. Results: We included 166 patients in our analyses, with a median follow-up of 21.8 months. Both progression-free survival and overall survival were superior in patients who received an intraoperative injection of ketorolac (34.4 months of progression-free survival in the ketorolac group versus 21.5 months in the non-ketorolac group (p = 0.002), and median overall survival was not reached in either group but there was significantly higher survival in the ketorolac group (p = 0.004)). We also performed subgroup analyses to minimise bias due to imbalance between groups on factors that could influence patient survival, and the group of patients receiving ketorolac systematically showed a better outcome. Uni- and multivariate analyses confirmed that administration of ketorolac intraoperatively was associated with better progression-free survival (HR = 0.47 on univariate analysis and 0.43 on multivariate analysis, p = 0.003 and 0.023, respectively). In terms of complications, there were no differences between the two groups, either intraoperatively or postoperatively. Conclusion: Our study has shown a favourable association between the use of ketorolac during surgery and the postoperative progression of ovarian cancer in a group of 166 patients, without any rise in intra- or postoperative complications. These encouraging results point to the need for a prospective study to confirm the benefit of intraoperative administration of ketorolac in ovarian cancer surgery.
Long-Term Assessment of Morocco’s Offshore Wind Energy Potential Using ERA5 and IFREMER Wind Data
Authors: Zekeik Younes , OrtizBevia Maria J. , Alvarez-Garcia Francisco J. , Haddi Ali , El Mourabit Youness , RuizdeElvira Antonio
Published: March 2024

Offshore wind energy is a promising resource for renewable energy development. Reanalysed wind data are unmatched by other wind data sources in providing a long-term assessment of wind power potential. In this study, 10 of the selected offshore locations close to the Moroccan coast were used to evaluate the ERA5 wind reanalysis dataset against the IFREMER-blended observational dataset covering the years 1993–2016. The ERA5 wind data’s capacity to represent wind variability in the area was confirmed by the results of the statistical methodologies used. All the reanalysed data scored better at capturing the observed wind variability at the southern sites than at the northern ones, where the wind variability was more complex. In a long-term evaluation from 1981 to 2020, the wind power potential in the Moroccan Atlantic coast was found to be very stable except in the northern sites and between Agadir and Bou Arich. Seven of the 10 sites considered were ranked as promising sites for offshore wind power generation, with wind power densities above 420 W/m2 at 100 m in height. Additionally, the change in signs in the variability toward the middle of the ERA5 record, which was seen at all locations and was also evident in the observations, did not significantly affect the yearly wind power density. However, the seasonal distribution of the latter was modified according to the local features of the seasonal variability.
Effects of Three Feed Additives in Low Fish Meal Diet on Growth, Antioxidant Capacity and Intestinal Microbiota of Penaeus monodon
Authors: Yang Wanli , Jiang Song , Yang Qibin , Huang Jianhua , Shi Jianzhi , Li Yundong , Yang Yukai , Zhou Falin
Published: March 2024

The effects of three feed additives in a low fish meal diet on growth, antioxidant capacity and intestinal microbiota of Penaeus monodon were studied to enhance the understanding of these effects and to provide basic data and a reference for the formulation and optimization of feed for P. monodon. A total of 630 healthy, homogenous shrimp (4.58 ± 0.05 g) were randomly divided into seven groups with three replicates per group and 30 shrimp per replicate in a breeding barrel (500 L). The additive names and amounts were 0 (CT); vitamin B6, 100 mg/kg (V1); vitamin B6, 200 mg/kg (V2); phytase, 1000 U/kg (P1); phytase, 2000 U/kg (P2); 0.2% yucca extract (Y1); and 0.4% yucca extract (Y2). The experiment lasted 8 weeks. The results showed that compared to CT, V1 and Y1 had a significant increasing tendency toward weight gain (WG) (p < 0.05) and had a significant decreasing tendency in the food conversion ratio (FCR) (p < 0.05). P2 had a significant increasing tendency in α-amylase activity (p < 0.05), and P1 had a significant increasing tendency in total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) (p < 0.05). The next-generation sequencing of intestinal microbiota showed that Proteobacteria was the most abundant phylum in the seven groups, accounting for 29.33%, 56.67%, 55%, 45.33%, 73%, 39.33% and 64.33% of the total. Compared to CT, the Proteobacteria was significantly high (p < 0.05) in P2 and Y2, and the Bacteroidota in all other groups decreased significantly (p < 0.05). The functional prediction of FAPROTAX indicated that there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in functional components among all groups. According to growth performance, antioxidant capacity and effects on intestinal microbiota, vitamin B6 (100 mg/kg), phytase (2000 U/kg) and yucca extract (0.2%) can be recommended as additives for the diet of P. monodon.
The Investigation of Preference Attributes of Indonesian Mobile Banking Users to Develop a Strategy for Mobile Banking Adoption
Authors: Sebayang Toto Edrinal , Hakim Dedi Budiman , Bakhtiar Toni , Indrawan Dikky
Published: March 2024

A new normal has been established as a result of the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on social behavior, technology, and business. This has a significant effect on how technology is used, such as mobile banking services, which offer more hygienic and secure payment alternatives than cash. Mobile banking has been viewed as having the ability to enhance access to unbanked customers in developing economies such as Indonesia, where 100 million people remain unbanked. This study aims to develop strategies using importance-performance analysis (IPA) to improve adoption based on the perceived importance and performance of 1441 mobile banking users during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were collected using an online questionnaire administered during the period of September 2022 to March 2023 using the mobile banking adoption attributes of Attitude, Perceived Usefulness, Perceived Ease of Use, Compatibility, Subjective Norm, Interpersonal Influence, External Influence, Perceived Behavior Control, facilitating conditions, self-efficacy, firm reputation, trust, disease risk, performance risk, financial risk, privacy risk, time risk, psychological risk, and perceived risk. IPA results were divided into four quadrants: “concentrate here”, “keep up the good work”, “low priority”, and “possible overkill” with a representation that respondents regard as important and well-addressed. The findings show that bank strategists seeking competitive advantage must push innovation efforts to protect users by improving privacy risk and financial risk and enhancing mobile banking security from potential cyberattacks. Digital banks and associated institutions need to educate mobile banking customers on the benefits of security measures for these services, which may improve confidence and trust, and consequently, accelerate mobile banking adoption.
Examining How Interaural Differences Owing to Head Rotation during Walking Improve the Distance of Auditory Obstacle Perceptions among Individuals with Visual Impairment: A Case Study in Small-Scale Blind Group
Authors: Miura Takahiro , Okochi Naoyuki , Matsuo Masaki , Yabu Ken-ichiro , Katagiri Atsushi , Yasu Keiichi , Sakajiri Masatsugu , Ifukube Tohru
Published: March 2024

The ability of individuals with visual impairment to recognize an obstacle by hearing is called “obstacle sense”. This ability is facilitated while they are moving, though the exact reason remains unknown. This study aims to clarify which acoustical factors may contribute to obstacle sense, especially obstacle distance perception. First, we conducted a comparative experiment regarding obstacle distance localization by individuals who are blind (N = 5, five men with blindness aged 22–42 (average: 29.8)) while they were standing and walking. The results indicate that the localized distance was more accurate while walking than while standing. Subsequently, the head rotation angle while walking and acoustic characteristics with respect to obstacle distance and head rotation angle were investigated. The peaks of the absolute head rotation angle during walking ranged from 2.78° to 11.11° (average: 6.55°, S.D.: 2.05°). Regarding acoustic characteristics, acoustic coloration occurred, and spectral interaural differences and interaural intensity differences were observed in the blind participants (N = 4, four men including two blind and two control sighted persons aged 25–38 (average: 30.8)). To determine which acoustic factors contribute, we examined the threshold of changes for interaural differences in time (ITD) and intensity (IID) (N = 11, seven men and four women with blindness aged 21–35 (average: 27.4)), as well as coloration (ICD) (N = 6, seven men and a woman with blindness aged 21–38 (average: 29.9))—depending on the head rotation. Notably, ITD and IID thresholds were 86.2 μs and 1.28 dB; the corresponding head rotation angles were 23.5° and 9.17°, respectively. The angle of the ICD threshold was 6.30° on average. Consequently, IID might be a contributing factor and ICD can be utilized as the cue facilitating the obstacle distance perception while walking.
Evaluation of Microstructure and Abrasive Wear-Resistance of Medium Alloy SiMo Ductile Cast Iron
Authors: Dyrlaga Łukasz , Zapała Renata , Morgiel Krzysztof , Studnicki Andrzej , Szczęsny Andrzej , Kopyciński Dariusz
Published: March 2024

Medium-alloy ductile iron with a SiMo ferritic matrix has very good heat resistance. The addition of chromium and aluminum also increases this resistance. This article presents the impact of chromium and aluminum on the structure of SiMo cast iron, especially their impact on the deformation of the spherical graphite precipitates and the formation of M6C and M3C2 carbide phases. These carbides are formed in a ferritic matrix or at the grain boundaries, resulting in increased hardness and a drastic reduction in impact strength. The article presents the influence of heat treatment on the material’s microstructure and resistance to abrasive wear. Chromium and aluminum additions can also indirectly reduce the abrasive wear resistance of SiMo cast iron. The presented research shows the possibility of doubling the abrasive wear resistance of SiMo cast iron.
How Does Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid Irrigation Affect Biodentine? A Multimethod Ex Vivo Study
Authors: Dąbrowska Katarzyna , Palatyńska-Ulatowska Aleksandra , Klimek Leszek
Published: March 2024

The activity of biomaterials used during endodontic treatment can be affected by various factors. One of them is the chemical action of the irrigant that they are exposed to. The aim of this multimethod ex vivo study was to evaluate the influence of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) on the surface appearance and chemical composition of Biodentine used in perforation repair. Twenty material specimens were prepared according to manufacturers’ recommendations and divided into two setting-time-based groups, tested after 45 min (group A) and 24 h (group B) of setting. Material was irrigated with 17% EDTA solution with or without simultaneous ultrasonic activation. The surface characteristics and the chemical composition analysis of the Biodentine specimens were performed with the aid of a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and an energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) method, respectively. The volumetric loss of material was measured by dedicated digital software in an optical microscope. Statistical analysis was performed. The EDS study confirmed that after the rinsing protocol, the percentage content of elements differed between the groups. The EDTA rinse, whether ultrasonically activated or not, visibly affected the surface appearance and chemical composition of Biodentine. The specimens’ surface subjected to irrigation was more irregular under SEM than in a control group. The US activation of the liquid amplified its impact on the tested material. The average volume loss in group A after 5 min irrigation was 3.98 µm3 for each µm2 of the chosen area and it increased up to 7.74 µm3/μm2 after the ultrasonic activation. In group B, indicated volume loss values were 6.30 and 11.70 µm3/μm2 for 5 min irrigation without and with US activation, respectively. Using a 20 min irrigation time and ultrasonic activation increased it up to 32.71 µm3/µm2. Each rinsing protocol involving irrigation with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid modified the surface features and the chemical composition of the evaluated hydraulic tricalcium silicate cement. Further research is needed to indicate the possible impact of the observed changes on its long-term clinical performance.
Characteristics of 2D Ultrasonic Vibration Incremental Forming of a 1060 Aluminum Alloy Sheet
Authors: Lv Yuan , Wang Yifan , Wang Yan , Pan Xixiang , Yi Cong , Dong Meng’en
Published: March 2024

Currently, 1060 aluminum alloy is widely applied in the electronics industry, construction, the aerospace field, traffic engineering, decorations, and the consumer goods market for its good chemical, physical, and mechanical properties. In general, excellent processing property is necessary and important for the manufacturing of complicated panels. In this paper, a special 2D ultrasonic vibration incremental forming method is designed to improve its plasticity and mechanical properties. Three kind of processing methods, including traditional single-point incremental forming, longitudinal ultrasonic vibration incremental forming, and 2D ultrasonic vibration incremental forming, are used for the flexible manufacturing of cones and cylindrical cups of 1060 aluminum alloy sheet. Then, micro-hardness tests, residual stress tests, and scanning electron microscopy tests are carried out to probe the changes in micro-structure and mechanical properties and to analyze the effects of different types of ultrasonic vibration on the plasticity and fracture characteristic of 1060 aluminum alloy. It is proven that 2D ultrasonic vibration facilitates the improvement of plasticity and surface qualities of 1060 aluminum alloy better than the other two processing methods. Therefore, the novel 2D ultrasonic vibration incremental forming process possesses substantial application value for the flexible and rapid manufacturing of complicated thin-walled component of aluminum alloy.
Corrosion Degradation Mechanism of Cr-Coated Zr-4 Alloy under Simulated Nuclear Conditions for Accident-Tolerant Fuel
Authors: Wang Yanfeng , Geng Juanjuan , Wang Yun , Wang Shaopeng , Zhang Changwei
Published: March 2024

Cr coatings with a thickness of about 19 μm were synthesized on Zr-4 cladding using plasma-enhanced arc ion plating. A Zr-Cr micro-diffusion layer was formed via Cr ion cleaning before deposition to enhance the interface bonding strength. Cr coatings exhibit an obvious columnar crystal structure with an average grain size of 1.26 μm using SEM (scanning electron microscopy) and EBSD (electron backscatter diffraction) with a small amount of nanoscale pores on the surface. A long-term aqueous test at 420 ± 3 °C, 10.3 ± 0.7 MPa and isothermal oxidation tests at 900~1300 °C in air were conducted to evaluate the Cr-coated Zr-4 cladding. All the results showed that the Cr coatings had a significant protective effect to the Zr-4 alloy. However, the corrosion deterioration mechanism is different. A gradual thinning of the Cr coating was observed in a long-term aqueous test, but a cyclic corrosion mechanism of void initiation–propagation–cracking at the oxide film interface is the main corrosion characteristic of the Cr coating in isothermal oxidation. Different corrosion models are constructed to explain the corrosion mechanism.
Machine Learning, Mechatronics, and Stretch Forming: A History of Innovation in Manufacturing Engineering
Authors: Grigoras Cosmin Constantin , Zichil Valentin , Ciubotariu Vlad Andrei , Cosa Stefan Marius
Published: March 2024

This review focuses on the complex connections between machine learning, mechatronics, and stretch forming, offering valuable insights that can lay the groundwork for future research. It provides an overview of the origins and fundamentals of these fields, emphasizes notable progress, and explores the influence of these fields on society and industry. Also highlighted is the progress of robotics research and particularities in the field of sheet metal forming and its various applications. This review paper focuses on presenting the latest technological advancements and the integrations of these fields from their beginnings to the present days, providing insights into future research directions.