bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Powering the Future: Leveraging Carbon Nanotubes, Silicon Nanowires, and MoS2 for Breakthroughs in Hydrogen Production and Li-ion Batteries
Authors: Machín Abniel , Cotto María C , Márquez Francisco , Díaz Jesús , Polop Celia , Morant Carmen
Published: October 2024

This study explores the hydrogen generation potential via water-splitting reactions under UV-vis radiation, by using a synergistic assembly of ZnO nanoparticles integrated with MoS2, single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs), and crystalline silicon nanowires (SiNWs) to create the MoS2-SiNWs-SWNTs@ZnONPs nanocomposites. A comparative analysis of MoS2 synthesized through chemical and physical exfoliation methods revealed that the chemically exfoliated MoS2 exhibited superior performance, thereby being selected for all subsequent measurements. The nanostructured materials demonstrated exceptional surface characteristics, with specific surface areas exceeding 300 m²g⁻¹. Notably, the hydrogen production rate achieved by a composite comprising 5% MoS2, 1.7% SiNWs, and 13.3% SWNTs at an 80% ZnONPs base was approximately 3909 µmol h⁻¹g⁻¹ under 500 nm wavelength radiation, marking a significant improvement of over 40-fold relative to pristine ZnONPs. This enhancement underscores the remarkable photocatalytic efficiency of the composites, maintaining high hydrogen production rates above 1500 µmol h⁻¹g⁻¹ even under radiation wavelengths exceeding 600 nm. Furthermore, the potential of these composites for energy storage and conversion applications, specifically within rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, was investigated. Composites, similar to those utilized for hydrogen production but excluding ZnONPs to address its limited theoretical capacity and electrical conductivity, were developed. The focus was on utilizing MoS2, and SiNWs, and SWNTs, as anode materials for Li-ion batteries. This strategic combination significantly improved the electronic conductivity and mechanical stability of the composite. Specifically, the composite with 56% MoS2, 24% SiNWs and 20% SWNTs offered remarkable cyclic performance with high specific capacitance values, achieving a complete stability of 1000 mA h⁻¹g⁻¹ after 100 cycles at 1 A g⁻¹. These results illuminate the dual utility of the composites, not only as innovative catalysts for hydrogen production but also as advanced materials for energy storage technologies, showcasing their potential in contributing to sustainable energy solutions.
Eddy Current Measurement of Electrical Resistivity in Heat Treated Zr-2.5%Nb Pressure Tubes
Authors: Thorpe William George , Underhill P. Ross , Krause Thomas Walter
Published: October 2024

Zr-2.5%Nb Pressure tubes (PT) house uranium fuel bundles in the fuel channels of CANDU® nuclear reactors. Preventing a failure mode caused by contact of the PT with an outer calandria tube (CT) is performed by inspection using eddy current (EC) testing and ultrasonic testing (UT) to measure the PT-CT gap. EC gap measurements are particularly sensitive to circumferential variation of the PT’s electrical resistivity, due to microstructural variations. A full-factorial experiment was performed to examine the statistical significance of variations in EC test parameters and manufacturing conditions on average circumferential electrical resistivity of as-manufactured PTs. It was found that 79% of the variance in the data could be attributed to variations caused by any of the test factors or combinations of test factors. The parameters that accounted for the majority of the variance were; 1) heat treatment (HT); 2) HT and EC frequency; 3) probe inner or outer surface placement; and 4) EC frequency. Measurements of circumferential resistivity showed up to ± 2.3% variation from the average of either surface. HT caused average PT resistivity to decrease at a rate of 1.53±0.08 (μΩ⋅cm)/log⁡(hr) and 1.1±0.4 (μΩ⋅cm)/log⁡(hr) for inner and outer PT surfaces, respectively. Results are correlated with literature reported differences in average β_Zr ribbon thickness in the axial-transverse cross-section between inner and outer PT surfaces. Results demonstrate potential for EC based resistivity measurements to characterize variations and changes in microstructure of Zr-2.5%Nb PT material.
Dipole Potential of Monolayers with Biologically Relevant Lipid Compositions
Authors: Cardoso Renato M.S. , Lairion F. , Disalvo E. A. , Loura Luís M.S. , Moreno Maria João
Published: October 2024

The membrane dipole potential that arises from the interfacial water and constitutive dipolar groups of lipid molecules modulates the interaction of amphiphiles and proteins with membranes. Consequently, its determination for lipid mixtures resembling the existing diversity in biological membranes is very relevant. In this work the dipole potential of monolayers, formed at the air-water interface, from pure or mixed lipids (1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC), 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (POPE), 1-palmitoyl-2-ol0eoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphatidyserine (POPS), Sphingomyelin (SpM) and cholesterol) were measured and correlated with the mean area per lipid. The results showed that, as previously observed, cholesterol increases the dipole potential in correspondence with the decrease in the average area per lipid and that the replacement of phosphocholine lipids by sphingomyelin leads to a decrease in the dipole potential. We have also observed that 20 mol% of POPE induces a monolayer condensation which is not affecting the measured dipole potential, except when cholesterol is added to the mixture. Additionally, at the small mole fractions encountered in biomembranes, the presence of the negatively charged lipid POPS increases the dipole potential of monolayers even though an enhancement in the monolayer packing is not evident. This increase in the dipole potential due to POPS and cholesterol and the smaller dipole potential of monolayers containing large amounts of SpM generates a non-zero transbilayer dipole potential in the asymmetric plasma membrane of eukaryotic cells.
Identification of Carbon-Short Fibers by Image Segmentation Technologies
Authors: Kurkin Evgenii , Minaev Evgenii , Sedelnikov Andrey , Pioquinto Jose Gabriel Quijada , Chertykovtseva Vladislava , Gavrilov Andrey
Published: October 2024

Computer vision technology for automatic recognition and geometric characterization of carbon fibers was proposed in this paper. A two-stage pipeline was used, in the first stage the fundamental neural network model of segmentation SAM(Segment Anything Model) was used, in the second stage the segmentation results were improved by using a trained neural network model DeepLabv3+. Both manually labeled carbon fiber images and generated synthetic images were used for training. It is shown that additional use of synthetic data in training of neural network models improves the quality of segmentation by IoU and Pix Acc metrics from 0.943 and 0.949 to 0.953 and 0.959, i.e. by 1% on average. The total processing time averaged 0.95 seconds for a single fiber image. Based on the segmentation results, an automatic calculation of geometric characteristics and statistics that can be used to evaluate material properties was realized.
Optical Calibration of the Multi-Color Ellipsometric Mapping Tool from Cheap Parts
Authors: Zereay Berhane Nugusse , Kalvin Sandor , Juhász György , Major Csaba , Horváth Zoltán György , Petrik Peter , Fried Miklós
Published: October 2024

We developed and applied a new calibration method to make the measurement more accurate with our multi-color ellipsometric mapping tool from cheap parts. Ellipsometry is an optical technique that measures the relative change in polarization state of the measurement beam induced by reflection from or transmission though a sample. During the conventional ellipsometric measurement, the data collection is relatively slower and measures one spot at a time, so mapping needs long time compared with our new optical mapping equipment made by an ordinary color LED monitor and a polarization sensitive camera. The angle-of-incidence and the incident polarization state is varied point-by-point so a special optical calibration method is needed. Three SiO2 samples with different thicknesses were used to determine point-by-point the angle-of-incidence and rho corrections. After the calibration, another SiO2 sample was measured and analyzed using the calibrated corrections and this sample further was independently measured using a conventional spectroscopic ellipsometer. The difference between the two measured thickness maps is less than 1 nm. Our optical mapping tool from cheap parts is faster and covers wider area samples in relative to the conventional ellipsometers and these correction enhancements further signify its performance.
Funding in IoMT research: Observations Based on Synthetic Knowledge Synthesis
Authors: Kokol Peter , Zlahtic Bojan , Šajnovič Urška , Blažun Helena Vošner , Završnik Jernej
Published: October 2024

The Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) represents a transformative technology that connects medical devices, sensors, and healthcare systems to enable real-time monitor-ing, data sharing, and advanced decision-making in healthcare. While the technical and clinical potential of IoMT has been explored extensively, research on the funding patterns and their implications remains sparse. This paper analyzes funding in IoMT research using bibliometric methods to assess the spatial dimensions of funded and non-funded research across different countries and regions. By employing Synthetic Knowledge Synthesis (SKS), the study triangulates quantitative and qualitative ap-proaches to provide insight into research trends, thematic differences, and the rela-tionship between funding and healthcare outcomes such as the Global Health Index (GHI). The results reveal that funded research exhibits higher publication rates in high-impact journals and is more concentrated in countries with stronger healthcare systems and higher R&D expenditures. However, countries with lower healthcare in-vestments are also increasingly contributing to IoMT research, likely in pursuit of im-proving healthcare outcomes. Thematic analysis shows that funded projects empha-size artificial intelligence applications in e-health and telemedicine, while non-funded research tends to focus on IoMT's role in pandemic management. These findings pro-vide insights into the global landscape of IoMT research funding and its impact on public health advancements.
Research on Influencing Factors of College Students’ Leadership: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Zhao Fulin , Fang Yin
Published: October 2024

Leadership is an important driving force in the process of college students' self-improvement and development, and improving college students' self-leadership is conducive to improving their comprehensive quality and ability. Based on literature research, this paper explores the factors affecting the development of college students' leadership, and then proposes a series of ways to improve college students' leadership, so as to promote the further development of college students' leadership education. A systematic literature review method was used to conduct a systematic review of 223 articles published in peer-reviewed journals from databases such as CNKI and Web of Science. The research shows that in practice, college students' leadership is defined as a kind of personal ability and implies two presuppositions: (1) Leadership is a kind of personal behavior, and individuals have the decision-making right to exercise leadership.There is no direct causal relationship between leadership behavior and organizational positions, especially position power. The above two presuppositions are caused by the fundamental changes in the connotation of leaders in the era of knowledge economy . This research will help to deeply understand the essence and influencing factors of student leadership training, and provide theoretical and decision-making reference for schools at all levels to train student leadership.
Short Survey in Machine Learning for Soccer Analytics
Authors: Amadu Pedro
Published: October 2024

We investigate soccer analytics from supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning perspectives. With the increasing availability of player tracking data and event logs, machine learning techniques have become essential for uncovering patterns in player and team performance. In this paper, we examine how supervised learning models are applied to tasks such as match outcome prediction and player rating systems, while unsupervised learning is utilized for player clustering, tactical analysis, and the discovery of hidden patterns in game data. Reinforcement learning, on the other hand, plays a key role in optimizing decision-making during matches by learning optimal strategies and tactics through trial and error. By providing a comprehensive overview of these approaches, we aim to highlight the transformative potential of machine learning in modern soccer analytics and how it continues to shape the sport. We also provide summary of other soccer analytics research in this work.
The Intertwined Epidemics: Comorbidity of Substance Abuse and Psychiatric Disorders
Authors: Montgomery Richard Murdoch
Published: October 2024

Substance abuse and psychiatric disorders are two prevalent and interrelated public health concerns that often coexist, leading to complex clinical scenarios. This comorbidity poses significant challenges in diagnosis, treatment, and understanding the causal relationships between the two conditions. Frequently, one disorder is neglected in favor of the other, and misconceptions abound regarding which condition precipitates the other. This article explores the common comorbidity of substance abuse and psychiatric disorders, delving into the prevalence, diagnostic challenges, treatment implications, and the bidirectional nature of causality. By examining current research and clinical practice, we aim to shed light on the misconceptions and emphasize the need for integrated approaches to effectively address both conditions concurrently.
Integration of Object Recognition, Color Classification and QR Decoding for the Purposes of Intelligent Robots
Authors: Vasilev Radoslav , Chivarov Nayden , Ivanova Valentina
Published: October 2024

This article presents a conceptual program model that integrates three main methods: object recognition, color classification, and QR decoding of information. These methods are well-established in the fields of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence, yet they remain subjects of ongoing research interest. The program model organizes the execution of the methods in a sequence directed toward recognized objects. In this way, color classification and QR decoding are performed only on already recognized objects. Colors and QR codes that do not belong to recognized objects are not analyzed, which can provide intelligent robots with reliable and accurate information about the objects they can recognize. For research purposes, image sensors (cameras), images saved to disk, clipboard, or shared memory between applications are used. The article shows that the program model can be augmented with various sensors and algorithms for the comprehensive construction of program control of autonomous robots. Future research that builds on current studies will focus on measuring the distance to recognized objects and structuring the collected information about these objects, which will create opportunities for perceptual anchoring and logical reasoning in the program control of intelligent robots.
Green Synthesis of SnO2 Nanocrystals Using Garcinia Mangostana L Fruit Peels Extract as Natural Capping Agent
Authors: Asdim Asdim , Rijali Alim , Susanti Qurnia
Published: October 2024

The hydrothermal synthesis of SnO2 nanocrystals at a relatively low-temperature range of 95-100 °C was successfully conducted utilising Garcinia Mangostana L fruit peel extract as a natural capping agent. Characterisation of the synthesised SnO2 nanocrystals was performed using an X-ray diffractometer (XRD) for phase analysis and determination of crystallite size and a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) for morphology analysis. XRD analysis revealed the formation of phase-pure SnO2 nanocrystals, with distinct peaks at angles (2θ) of 26.01°, 33.89°, and 51.70° corresponding to miller indices (110), (101), and (211) as per JSPDS standard data. The absence of impurity peaks in the XRD pattern indicated the high purity of the synthesised SnO2 nanocrystals. SEM images exhibited differences in the size and morphology of the synthesised SnO2 nanocrystals with and without the extract. Specifically, the presence of the fruit peel extract led to a reduction in aggregate formation and inhibited crystal growth, resulting in smaller aggregates. These findings highlight the significant impact of Garcinia Mangostana L fruit peel extract on the hydrothermal synthesis of SnO2 nanocrystals with varied sizes and morphologies.
Analysis of Chemistry Podcast Implementation in Learning Hydrocarbons and Petroleum for Inclusive Students
Authors: Septianing Pingki Wahyu , Saputro Sulistyo , Mahardiani Lina , Indriyanti Nurma Yunita , Desti Icha
Published: October 2024

This research aims to conduct a feasibility analysis of a chemistry podcast, referred to here as “PodChem,” and to examine the impact of PodChem on learning hydrocarbons and petroleum. This study employs a pre-experimental method. The podcast media were developed using Anchor software and evaluated through a survey using a podcast media assessment questionnaire. The evaluation was carried out by lecturers as validators and students as podcast users. The assessed aspects include content, functionality, and appearance as complementary media in learning hydrocarbons and petroleum. The results indicate that the chemistry podcast PodChem was successfully produced using Anchor software. The findings suggest that PodChem is valid and suitable for educational use. The audio quality produced using Anchor is clear, and its accessibility is broad. Additionally, students reported that the content is relevant and enhances their understanding of the subject matter. Most students also found the podcast to be easily accessible and effective in conveying the concept. In terms of appearance, students agreed that the podcast title is engaging, the delivery is captivating, and the duration is appropriate. The implementation of PodChem in chemistry learning received positive feedback from students, with the majority accepting the use of podcast media in the classroom. Furthermore, 88.9% of respondents expressed a desire for podcasts to be used as complementary media in future learning, as they found podcasts to be more interesting, insightful, and easy to understand. These conclusions are supported by the results of student questionnaires and the assessment of assignments conducted by teachers in class.
Interculturalidad crítica y educación en América Latina
Authors: Santillán-Anguiano Ernesto Israel , González-Machado Emilia Cristina
Published: October 2024

El presente Dossier, como sexto número especial de la revista Cuadernos Fronterizos, intenta responder tangencialmente a la pregunta: ¿Es posible hablar de una relación entre interculturalidad crítica y educación en América Latina? Este cuestionamiento, que aparentemente puede ser contestado de forma afirmativa, lleva algunos años rondando los escenarios académicos.
Salud mental en América Latina: interconexiones saludables y educación intercultural crítica
Authors: Estrella Castillo Damaris
Published: October 2024

Este artículo explora las interconexiones entre la interculturalidad crítica y la educación en salud mental en América Latina. Un aspecto destacado será la importancia de la difusión cultural y la promoción del debate en las ciencias sociales y humanísticas como medio para abordar estos desafíos.
Poblamiento e interacciones socioculturales en el Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California
Authors: Ruiz Ríos Rogelio Everth
Published: October 2024

Las interacciones sociales, políticas, culturales, económicas y ambientales en el VDG atraviesan por la convivencia en distintos períodos, de cinco asentamientos humanos correspondientes a tres grupos étnicos: kumiay, ruso y “mestizo”, en los que se aprecian formas de organización comunitaria, a los que se han sumado nuevos(as) agentes a causa de las prácticas turísticas y comerciales implementadas en las dos décadas más recientes.
Pedagogía de la Memoria. una necesidad ante el pasado reciente mexicano
Authors: Ceceña Aispuro Daniel , Leyva Aispuro Blanca Patricia
Published: October 2024

Este artículo surge como una reflexión de los retos que encontramos como docentes de historia, al momento de enseñar temas de violencia estatal y pasado traumático, pero pensando en un contexto educación media y media superior, como se ha planteado en los nuevos planes de estudio de la Nueva Escuela Mexicana (NEM).
Atención educativa en contextos migratorios
Authors: López López Yara Amparo , Roa Rivera Reyna Isabel
Published: October 2024

La migración internacional, entre sus causas y efectos, generan otros factores asociados a lo educativo y salud mental en los NNA en condición de movilidad. Por lo que, UNICEF (2018) enfatiza el trabajo interinstitucional e intersectorial para garantizar el derecho a la educación de esta población.
The Influence of Product Quality and Price to Resubscribe Intention through Customer Satisfaction as a Mediating Variable on SVoD Amazon Prime Video
Authors: Azrah Maysa Putri  , Osly Usman
Published: October 2024

This study aims to explore the influence of product quality and price on resubscribe intention with customer satisfaction as a mediating variable in SVoD service, namely Amazon Prime Video. This study applied a quantitative approach with a data collection method in the form of a survey with a questionnaire as the research instrument. The population in this study are people who live in Jabodetabek and have used or are currently using the Amazon Prime Video streaming service. The analysis technique used in this study is the SEM-PLS (Partial Least Squares) method with a calculating tool, namely SmartPLS version 4, to assess validity, reliability, and test research hypotheses. The results of this research show that: 1) product quality influences customer satisfaction, 2) price influences customer satisfaction, 3) product quality influences resubscribe intention, 4) price influences resubscribe intention, 5) customer satisfaction influences resubscribe intention, 6) product quality influences resubscribe intention, mediated by customer satisfaction, and 7) price influences resubscribe intention, mediated by customer satisfaction. This study is expected to contribute to developing knowledge about customer behavior, especially for researchers who are interested in analyzing the relationship and influence of product quality and price on resubscribe intention through customer satisfaction.
Keyword: quality product, price, resubscribe intention, customer satisfaction, subscription video on demand.
Analysis of the mutation at Head Office Badan Kepegawaian Negara
Authors: Andreani Junica , Susan Febriantina  , Terrylina Arvinta Monoarfa
Published: October 2024

The background of this research contains employee mutation at the Head Office Badan Kepegawaian Negara. The aim of this research is to analyze the operational standards of mutation procedures at the Head Office Badan Kepegawaian Negara, analyze and understanding the mutation process and to recognizing any obstacles that exist when the mutation takes process at the head office of Badan Kepegawaian Negara.
This research uses qualitative research methods to describe the problems and research focus. Using data collection techniques in the form of interviews, observation and document analysis, this type of research uses a study case approach. The subject of this research is informants, this research uses informant selection techniques using a non-probability sampling method with a proportional sampling method. This research uses two types of triangulation, which are technical triangulation and source triangulation.
Examining the Influence of ICT Penetration on Gender Disparities: A Data Panel Econometric Analysis of the Seven Southeast Asian Developing Countries
Authors: Wijaya Chandra Henryawan , Basyir Naail Daffa , Hasudungan Albert , Desfiandi Alvin
Published: October 2024

The aim of the study is to analyze to which Information and Communications Technology (ICT) penetration affects gender disparities in seven Southeast Asia’s developing countries. ICT indicators are measured through the individuals using the internet, mobile phone subscriptions, and internet subscriptions. Aside, the seven Southeast Asia’s developing countries include Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, and Vietnam. These countries are selected as they have comparable economic development stage from lower to upper-middle income economics on the basis 2022’s World Bank Country Income Classification.  The data panel econometrics is carried out to measure the effect of the independent variables towards gender disparity. Gender disparity is represented by the Gender Inequality Index. The time series data is yearly from 2000 to 2022. The econometric assessment shows the individual internet ownership and subscription have a negative and significant effect to gender disparity. It means that more internet penetration can lower the gender disparity in those seven countries. The academic implication is to enhance economic consideration towards more internet penetration and access to reduce gender disparity. In the heart of policymaking, our research indicates more internet accessibility to reduce gender disparity. As in the common knowledge, the internet is a source of information and knowledge to society
The Effect of Strategic Vigilance in Achieving Sustainable Competitive Advantage: Analytical Research at Ashur International Bank
Authors: Edan Alkhazraje Mohammed
Published: October 2024

This research aims to know the interest of Ashur International Bank management in the role played by strategic vigilance in achieving sustainable competitive advantage by providing decision-makers with proactive and important information about internal and external environmental variables, so the intellectual cover of the problem stems from the extent of the bank's management ability to achieve sustainable competitive advantage in light of the multiple markets of the Iraqi private commercial banks, as well as governmental banks. Hence the importance of the research lies in presenting the accumulation of knowledge for strategic vigilance, which is one of the modern approaches in the field of strategic management, while the sustainable competitive advantage is the most influential in the work of banks due to its connection with their future and their business. The sample consists of (125) individuals (department heads, division and unit officials, and employees) in the surveyed bank. A questionnaire was used to collect data and distributed to a sample of (60) individuals, from which (50) valid forms were retrieved for analysis. The most important conclusion was the bank's management focuses in its strategic thinking on the dimensions of strategic vigilance in different ways according to the vigilance sequence (commercial, environmental, technological, and finally competitive vigilance)
Health Care Delivery Site– and Patient-Level Factors Associated With COVID-19 Primary Vaccine Series Completion in a National Network of Community Health Centers
Authors: Gold Rachel , Steeves-Reece Anna , Ochoa Aileen , Oakley Jee , Gunn Rose , Liu Shuling , Hatch Brigit A. , O’Leary Sean T. , Spina Christine I. , Allen Treasure , Cottrell Erika K.
Published: October 2024

Objectives. To assess multilevel factors associated with variation in COVID-19 vaccination rates in a US network of community health centers.

Methods. Using multilevel logistic regression with electronic health record data from ADVANCE (Accelerating Data Value Across a National Community Health Center Network; January 1, 2022–December 31, 2022), we assessed associations between health care delivery site–level (n = 1219) and patient-level (n = 1 864 007) characteristics and COVID-19 primary vaccine series uptake.

Results. A total of 1 337 440 patients completed the COVID-19 primary vaccine series. Health care delivery site characteristics were significantly associated with lower series completion rates, including being located in non-Medicaid expansion states and isolated or rural communities and serving fewer patients. Patient characteristics associated with significantly lower likelihood of completing the vaccine series included being Black/African American or American Indian/Alaska Native (vs White), younger age, lower income, being uninsured or publicly insured (vs using private insurance), and having fewer visits.

Conclusions. Both health care delivery site– and patient-level factors were significantly associated with lower COVID-19 vaccine uptake. Community health centers have been a critical resource for vaccination during the pandemic. ( Am J Public Health. 2024;114(11):1242–1251. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307773 )
THE FACTORS AFFECTING THE ADOPTION OF A WELL-INTEGRATED INTERNET BANKING SYSTEM IN MAURITIUS
Authors: SUNECHER YUVRAJ , RAMPHUL NEEDESH , CHITTOO HEMANT , POOLAY KAMLESH SINGH
Published: October 2024

As the result of technological advancements, online banking is becoming a major feature for banks because it helps customers to save time and benefits banks financially. Although Mauritius’s banking sector is well developed, its e-banking sector has lagged behind other countries. Hence, the purpose of this study is to identify the factors affecting the adoption of internet banking. From the findings of the study, it can be seen that many Mauritians nowadays use internet banking, but it is principally the new generation whereas the older banking customers prefer the traditional way as they do not trust the internet to manage their money. Also, though many use e-banking now they still think human contact is important for banking relation and continue to visit their banks, thus proving that even if online banking is in well integrated in Mauritius now, it still has a long way to go for Mauritians to integrate it into their everyday lives and use it to its full potential.
Prospective isolation of mouse and human hematopoietic stem cells using Plexin domain containing 2
Authors: Tanaka Yosuke , Kubota Yasushi , Lieberam Ivo , Kimura Takaharu , Barlow Jillian , Bramley Josh , Sakuma Chiaki , Shibata Takashi , Masataka Nakagawa , Kurosawa Yasunori , Maruyama Toshiaki , Yabushita Tomohiro , Okumura CJ , Akuta Teruo , Kent David , Jessell Thomas , Goyama Susumu , Kimura Shinya , Yamazaki Satoshi , Suda Toshio , Kitamura Toshio
Published: October 2024

Numerous strategies exist to isolate hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) using complex combinations of markers and flow cytometry. However, robust identification of HSCs using imaging techniques is substantially more challenging which has prompted the recent development of HSC reporter mice. To date, none of the molecules used in these reporters have been useful for human HSC identification. Here we report that PLXDC2 is a useful marker for both mouse and human HSCs. Using a green fluorescent protein (GFP) knock-in at the Plxdc2 locus in mice (hereafter denoted as Plxdc2-GFP), we showed that Plxdc2-GFP is highly expressed in HSCs with 1 in 2.8 Plxdc2-GFP+CD150+ cells giving long-term multi-lineage reconstitution in transplantation. Moreover, we developed a novel human PLXDC2 antibody and showed that human PLXDC2+ HSCs have stronger long-term multilineage reconstitution ability compared with PLXDC2- HSCs in a xenograft model. Thus, our study identifies PLXDC2 as a highly relevant molecule in HSC identification, potentially allowing greater purity and live in vivo tracking of these cells.
Sputum and Blood Eosinophilia Level of Patient With Chroni̇c Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (Copd) Exacerbation in Hospitalized
Authors: gokturk ozge , suerdem mecıt , tulek baykal , kanat fikret , yormaz burcu , celik zeliha esin , gokturk kerim
Published: October 2024

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common respiratory condition characterised by persistent airflow limitation and frequent exacerbations. In patients with COPD exacerbations, whether steroid therapy should be administered via inhalation or the systemic route remains unclear. To address this, we aimed to evaluate the response of sputum and blood eosinophil counts to systemic and inhaled steroids in hospitalised patients with COPD exacerbation. Our study included 58 patients hospitalised at a chest disease clinic for the treatment of COPD exacerbation. Upon admission, pre-induced sputum samples were collected. Patients were then randomly assigned to receive either intravenous methylprednisolone (40 mg/day) as a single daily dose in addition to standard exacerbation treatment (n=29) or budesonide (0.50 mg) via nebulisation at 12-h intervals for 7 days (n=29). Sputum haemograms and eosinophils were evaluated on the 14th and 45th days of treatment. In patients receiving intravenous steroid treatment, sputum eosinophil percentages were significantly reduced on days 14 (0.36±0.72) and 45 (0.28±0.53) compared to those at baseline (0.86±1.22) (p=0.041). Although decreases in the percentage of eosinophils in sputum, eosinophil count, and percentage in blood were observed on the 14th and 45th days compared to baseline values in patients receiving inhaled steroid treatment, these changes were not statistically significant (p>0.05). Adding systemic steroids to the treatment of severe COPD exacerbations is a rational approach. Further studies with longer follow-up periods are needed to determine the role of eosinophil levels in the blood and sputum as a marker for deciding on intravenous and inhaled steroid treatments.
Prevalence of Hypertension and Associated Risk Factors in Galkayo, Puntland- Somalia
Authors: Abdille Ahmed A. , Mohamed Sundus M. , Giama Abdulkadir M. , Bogale Kassawmar Angaw
Published: October 2024

Background
Hypertension is a significant global public health concern, yet research on its prevalence and associated risk factors in understudied regions in Somalia like Galkayo is very limited. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of hypertension and its determinants among patients attending the Galkayo Medical Center (GMC).
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted from June to August 2023 at GMC. Participants (N = 382) were selected using systematic sampling and completed a questionnaire assessing demographics, clinical history, and lifestyle factors. Blood pressure measurements were obtained to confirm hypertension diagnosis. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, binary logistic regression, and multiple logistic regression.
Results
The study found a prevalence of 13.6% among participants. Older age, unemployment, and comorbidities are significantly associated with hypertension (p < 0.05). Multiple logistic regression identified younger age, employment status, and comorbidity as independent predictors of hypertension.
Conclusion
These findings underscore a considerable burden of hypertension among GMC Hospital attendees in Galkayo, Somalia. Efforts to address modifiable risk factors and enhance access to hypertension management services are crucial to mitigating the impact of this chronic condition on public health in the region. This study contributes valuable insights into the epidemiology of hypertension in a previously understudied area, informing targeted interventions to improve health outcomes and reduce the burden of hypertension in Galkayo and similar settings.
Public preferences for allocating health system resources in Canada: a systematic review
Authors: Ali Shehzad , Garaszczuk Roxanne , Moodie Jessica , Cipriano Lauren , Ghattas Lina , Ali Samya
Published: October 2024

Background

Conventional economic evaluations are based on the principle of health maximization. However, this approach does not consider societal preferences to prioritize health care for certain social groups and health conditions, and the public concern over health disparities. In recent years, equity-sensitive economic evaluation methods have been developed to incorporate societal concern over for health inequities. These methods use quantitative evidence based on preference elicitation exercises to inform allocation of health system resources.

Objective

To systematically review Canadian studies that quantify public preferences for allocating health care resource across sociodemographic groups and health conditions

Methods

Three electronic databases were searched: Ovid Embase, Ovid MEDLINE, and EBSCO EconLit. In addition, the reference lists of relevant papers were also scanned to detect any other suitable studies. The systematic review included studies meeting two criteria: studies that sampled Canadians and those where participants made decisions about resource allocation or responded to hypothetical scenarios about redistributing lifetime health. Two reviewers conducted screening, full-text review, and data extraction.

Results

Eight studies were identified that investigated public preferences for prioritizing health care in relation to age, income, disease rarity and baseline health. Age-related preferences favored children and younger patients over older patients. Aversion to socioeconomic-related health inequality was heterogeneous and was associated with respondent characteristics. No clear preference was found for treatments for rare diseases over common conditions, or for baseline quality of life and life expectancy. Two studies exposed participants to moral reasoning exercises that resulted in slightly lower level of prioritization of specific conditions or groups.

Conclusion

There is clear evidence to prioritize health care resources for children and younger patients over older patients. There is limited or no Canadian evidence on societal values on tackling health inequity related to socioeconomic status, sex/gender, race/ethnicity and other social determinants of health. Future research can help bridge this gap.
Quantitative analysis of microplastics in water by Raman spectroscopy: influence of microplastic concentration on Raman scattering intensities
Authors: Pyo Sung Gyu , Jung Eun Su , Choe Jin Hyun , Kim Jin Seok , Ahn Da Won , Yoo JinUk , Choi Tae Min
Published: October 2024

In this study, quantitative Raman scattering analysis was employed for the direct detection of microplastics in water. Raman intensities varied according to the change in the concentration of microplastics in water. Microplastic samples consisted of 40–100 μm polyvinyl chloride (PVC) spherical particles; 40–48 μm polyethylene (PE) spherical particles; 0.1–1.0 wt% of each microplastic sample was dispersed in de-ionized water. In the case of PE particles in water, a peak corresponding to the twisting of the CH2 bond was observed at 1295 cm-1, and the area integrated intensity ratio with a H2O broad peak at 3,400 cm-1 was observed. The peak area ratio increased linearly with the PE particle concentration, and the linear equation and R2 value were y = 0.22797x+0.0125 and 0.92, respectively. In the case of the PVC particles in water, the peak belonging to the stretching vibration of the C–Cl bond appeared at 637 cm-1, which linearly increased in intensity when the peak area ratio with H2O was observed. The linear expression and R2 value were y = 0.37704x-0.01821 and 0.88, respectively. The results confirmed that the dispersed microplastic particles of PE and PVC in water (up to ~0.1 wt%, and up to 0.22 μm particles) can be directly detected by the Raman scattering analysis method.
Impact of metabolic rewiring by KRAS mutations on plasma lipidome profiling in patients with advanced solid tumors
Authors: Alonso-Villaverde Carlos , Ramos Javier , Fernández-Sénder Laura , Villuendas Óscar , Valentí Vicente
Published: October 2024

Purpose: To find differences in plasma lipidomic signatures between patients with advanced solid tumors harboring KRAS mutations and those with KRAS wild-type tumors.
Methods: Gas chromatography coupled to quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry was used to determine polar and neutral lipid levels. Data were normalized using Probabilistic Quotient Normalization. Somatic KRAS mutational status was assessed on tumor tissue. Metaboanalyst 5.0 was used to perform univariate, multivariate, and supervised analyses.
Results: Thirty-seven patients were included in the study, 10 of them (27%) with KRAS-mutated tumors. The univariate analysis on polar lipids showed that patients with KRAS-mutated tumors had significantly higher levels of various lysophosphocholines (LPC) [sn1:(15:0), (18: 0), (19:0), (20:0); sn2: (14:0), (15:0), (16:0), (18:2), (19:0), (20:5)]. Levels of unsaturated fatty acids (FA) 1,13-eicosadienoic acid, adrenal acid, eicosenoic acid, SDA-iso1, and w6–DPA were significantly lower in the mutated group. Also, levels of the oxidized lipids (oxylipins) 9,10-EpOME(12), epoxy-stearic acid, x -OxoODE-iso1, 12-HETE, 15-HETE, x-HETE-iso1, x-oxoODE-iso1, were significantly lower in the group with KRAS mutation. The PLS-DA analysis also discriminated between these values between both groups. The ROC curves showed that the ratio of unsaturated FA to lysophosphocholines could predict KRAS mutation status (AUC=0.86 for the ratio 11,13-eicosadienoic/LPC sn2-20:0).
Conclusion: Patients with KRAS-mutated tumors have increased plasma levels of sn2-LPC and sn1-LPC. Suggesting enhanced phospholipase 1 and 2 activity. Lower plasma levels of unsaturated FA and oxylipins in KRAS-mutant tumors suggest an enhanced consumption of FA through beta-oxidation. The ratio unsaturated FA/LPC may serve as a biomarker for KRAS mutational status prediction.
Exploring the relationship between premenstrual dysphoric disorder and disordered eating: a qualitative study
Authors: Nkeng Relindis Ebesoh , Matthews Lynsay , Riddell Julie
Published: October 2024

Background
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) causes debilitating psychological and physical symptoms during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Previous research has shown a strong association between PMDD and disordered eating; however, there is limited research from the UK on the impact that PMDD has on eating behaviours. This information is needed to inform appropriate interventions and support. This study aimed to explore the eating behaviours of people living with PMDD in the UK, their experiences of seeking support, and considerations for future interventions.
Method
Qualitative semi structured interviews were conducted with 13 people with PMDD living in the UK. The participants were recruited via an online PMDD support page. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed.
Results
Six themes emerged: ‘dual personality’ life with PMDD; the struggle for appropriate PMDD management; the destructive impact of life with PMDD; eating behaviours during a PMDD episode; ‘aftermath’ (the impact of disordered eating); and accessing support for PMDD-related eating behaviours. Participants described PMDD as severe and distressing, impacting every aspect of their lives. Obtaining an accurate diagnosis and management were challenging, involving dismissive encounters with health professionals, misdiagnoses, and inappropriate treatment. Their eating behaviours fluctuated during different menstrual phases, showing disordered patterns consistent with binge eating disorder, bulimia nervosa, and anorexia nervosa. Many ‘managed’ their eating habits with harmful strategies such as purging and ‘fad diets’. Participants reported both psychological and physical health impacts of their eating behaviour. Few participants sought eating support, and those who did found minimal improvement. Barriers to seeking help included previous ‘dismissive’ attitudes and a lack of PMDD knowledge among health professionals. Participants recommended PMDD-specific training for health professionals, specialised eating disorder services, increased information dissemination, and flexible management options.
Conclusion
People with PMDD display disordered eating consistent with eating disorders such as binge eating disorder, bulimia nervosa, and anorexia nervosa. This highlights the need for a greater understanding of the potential shared mechanisms of eating disorders and PMDD. Given that the majority of people with eating disorders are women and individuals assigned female at birth, understanding the relationship with PMDD is integral to shaping appropriate interventions and eating support strategies.
Transcript levels of cellular senescence marker genes are increased based on high expression of gasdermin family of genes in breast cancer
Authors: Berkel Caglar
Published: October 2024

Cellular senescence is a cell state characterized by a generally permanent cell-cycle arrest, generating a broad secretome of inflammatory factors, contributing to pro-inflammatory milieu. Pyroptosis is a highly regulated cell death mechanism with pro-inflammatory characteristics, mediated by gasdermin (GSDM) family of proteins, which has six members: GSDMA-E and PJVK. In the present study, I found that breast tumors with high gasdermin expression have higher expression of senescence marker genes, namely CDKN1A (encoding p21), CDKN2A (encoding p16) and TP53 (encoding p53). This is especially true for high GSDMD- or GSDME-expressing breast tumors, which show higher mRNA levels of three senescence marker genes. This high GSDM-dependent increases in the transcript levels of cellular senescence marker genes is more frequent in breast cancer cells than in non-malignant breast cells, suggesting that the association between gasdermin family of genes and senesence marker genes in terms of expression levels is more strong in the case of tumor. This might point that, in breast cancer, pyroptosis and senescence might be associated; however, whether pyroptosis regulates senescence or vice versa, whether these two processes both reciprocally regulate and control each other, or even whether they share an upstream regulatory pathway remains to be identified. These findings also support previous research demonstrating the promoting effect of pyroptosis on senesence, and that SASP (senescence-associated secretory phenotype) factors can induce GSDMD–dependent pyroptotic cell death in neighboring cells present, in certain contexts. Further mechanistic studies are required to better characterize molecular connections between senescence and pyroptosis in breast cancer.