bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AI-Enhanced Decision-Making for Course Modality Preferences in Higher Engineering Education During the Post-COVID Era
Authors: Mehrabi Amirreza , Morphew Jason Wade , Araabi Bab Nadjar , Memarian Negar , Memarian Hossein
Published: August 2024

This study harnesses the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) focusing on machine learning (ML) to improve decision-making in advanced engineering education. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic compelled a swift transformation in higher education methodologies, particularly in the domain of course modality. This study aims to align institutional decisions with student and faculty preferences in the face of rapid changes in instructional approaches, particularly learning styles, theoretical, practical, and theoretical-practical, prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic. To ascertain the preferences of students and instructors regarding class modalities across various courses, we utilized the Cognitive Process-Embedded Systems and E-learning conceptual framework. This framework effectively delineates the task execution process within the scope of technology-enhanced learning environments for both students and instructors. This study was conducted in seven Iranian universities and their STEM departments, examining their preferences for different learning styles. After analyzing the variables by different feature selection methods, we used three ML methods—decision trees (DT), support vector machines (SVM), and random forest (RF)—for comparative analysis. The results demonstrated the high performance of the RF model in predicting curriculum style preferences, making it a powerful decision-making tool in the evolving post-COVID educational landscape. This study not only demonstrates the effectiveness of ML in predicting educational preferences but also contributes to understanding the role of self-regulated learning in educational policy and decision-making in higher education.
Induced Scratches and Fatigue in Aircraft-Grade Aluminium Alloys. A Statistical Analysis on the UTS and Elongation at Break
Authors: Zichil Valentin , Grigoras Cosmin Constantin , Ciubotariu Vlad Andrei
Published: August 2024

The present study analyses the influence of scratches and fatigue on the mechanical characteristics of aluminium alloys commonly used in the aviation industry: 2024-T4, 6061-T4, 6061-T4 uncoated, 6061-T6 uncoated, 7075-T0, and 7076-T6. 120 specimens were used for the study. Out of these, 60 samples were scratched, and the other 60 samples were also scratched under the same circumstances and then subjected to low-cycle fatigue (LCF) before undergoing the tensile test. Based on the statistical examination of the measured data, mathematical prediction models have been established. Compared to their unscratched counterparts, the results indicate a significant decrease in the mechanical properties of both scratched and scratched-fatigued sample sets. The LCF pre-treatment contributes to the negative impacts of scratches, resulting in a reduced value for the ultimate tensile strength and elongation at break. The results conclude that surface integrity plays an essential role in preserving aircraft components' structural strength.
Hubungan Social Capital dengan Pengembangan Usaha Tani Hortikultura Anggota Kelompok Petani Muda di Desa Berjo, Ngargoyoso, Karanganyar
Authors: Nur Aini Afifah Ayu , Suwarto Suwarto , Widiyanti Emi
Published: August 2024

The development of farming business is inseparable from the existence of effective and efficient farm business management. Farm business management is the ability of farmers to plan, organize, direct, coordinate and supervise the factors of production that are controlled or owned so that they can provide production as expected. The success of farming in the agricultural sector is undeniably largely determined by social capital. This study aims to determine the characteristics of social capital among members of the young farmer group, knowing the development of horticultural businesses contained in members of the young farmer group and analyzing the relationship between social capital and the business development of members of the young farmer group. This research uses quantitative methods. This research was supervised and funded by Merdeka Belajar-Kampus Merdeka (MBKM)/Independent Learning-Independent Campus Research, which is located in Berjo Village, Ngargoyoso, Karanganyar. The regional election was carried out deliberately based on information obtained by research supporting data that showed that there were 2 groups of young farmers who had been active in business development in the agricultural sector since 2019. The sampling technique used was a saturated sampling of 27 young farmers. The results showed that cooperation and participation have a significant relationship with business development. Meanwhile, trust and networks have no significant relationship with the development of farming businesses.
Partisipasi Masyarakat dalam Upaya Pemulihan Wisata Pasar Mbatok Karanganyar Pasca Pandemi COVID-19
Authors: Wibawati Nurima , Widiyanti Emi , Rusdiyana Eksa , Suwarto Suwarto
Published: August 2024

The Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic that occurred in Indonesia has had a negative impact including on the tourism sector. One of the tourism areas affected by the COVID-19 pandemic is the Mbatok Market, Karanganyar, Central Java. This research aims to determine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Mbatok Market tourist community and analyze community participation in efforts to overcome the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Karanganyar Mbatok Market tourism. This study uses a qualitative method. The research location was carried out in Kemuning Village, Ngargoyoso Sub-district, Karanganyar Regency. Determining informants used snowball sampling and purposive sampling for key informants. Data were collected using the triangulation method based on the results of interviews with 15 informants. The results of this research show that the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the community at Mbatok Karanganyar Market tourism is divided into: (a) economic dimension, there is a decrease in employment opportunities, (b) social dimension, the social community that occurs as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic via online in groups WhatsApp has limitations in direct communication, (c) the cultural dimension, cultural rituals are still carried out during the pandemic but were not carried out at the start of the pandemic, (d) the environmental dimension, carried out by maintaining environmental health by implementing 3M. Community efforts to overcome the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic by implementing Community-Based Tourism which involves the entire community, traders, BUMDes, artists and youth organizations.
Hubungan Karakteristik dan Respons Petani Terhadap Program Kartu Tani di Kecamatan Tasikmadu, Kabupaten Karanganyar
Authors: Oktaviani Fahbri Yola , Anantanyu Sapja , Rusdiyana Eksa
Published: August 2024

The farmer card program was launched in 2016 with the initial aim of streamlining the distribution of subsidized fertilizers, and only small farmers are targeted by this program. One of the sub-districts in Karanganyar Regency that has implemented the farmer card program is Tasikmadu. Almost all farmers registered in e-RDKK/e-Alokasi already have a farmer card, and Tasikmadu became the sub-district with the highest purchase of subsidized fertilizer using the farmer card in Karanganyar in 2020. This farmer card program raises various responses from various characteristics of farmers. This research aims to explore the correlation between characteristics and responses of farmer to the farmer card program in Tasikmadu Sub-district, Karanganyar Regency. The primary research method is quantitative, and location determination is intentionally (purposely) in Tasikmadu Sub-district, Karanganyar Regency. Sampling was carried out using the multi-stage cluster random sampling method, with a total of 60 farmers as samples. The data used consists of primary and secondary data. Primary data was obtained through interviews using questionnaires, while secondary data were obtained from related parties in this study, namely the Tasikmadu Sub-district office, Agricultural Extension Center (BPP) Tasikmadu, and previous research. The data analysis was carried out using Rank Spearman analysis. The results show that there is a significant relationship between age, education level, extension activities, and access to information with farmers’ responses to the farmer card program. However, there is no significant relationship between farming experience and land size with the farmer card program.
Orientasi Etika Penyuluh Pertanian di Kabupaten Konawe
Authors: Salahuddin Salahuddin , Malik Nurhayu
Published: August 2024

This research aimed to analyze the ethical orientation of agricultural extension workers in agricultural extension in Konawe Regency. The research was conducted in Konawe Regency, Southeast Sulawesi Province. The location of this research was determined purposively or deliberately. The respondents of this study were the entire research population, namely all food crop agricultural extension workers who had status as State Civil Apparatus (ASN) in Konawe, with a total 113 people (census). The research variable is the ethical orientation of agricultural extension workers, which includes: idealism and relativism ethical orientation. The data analysis used to describe the ethical orientation of extension workers in agricultural extension is descriptive quantitative using class intervals. The results showed that the ethical orientation of extension workers in agricultural extension in Konawe Regency is in the medium category. Extension workers in Konawe already have a good ethical orientation in agricultural extension, but this needs to be improved so that extension workers have a high or very good ethical orientation in agricultural extension. Agricultural extension workers who have a high ethical orientation will always carry out extension activities professionally.
Differences in the influence of self-regulated learning levels on enhancing students’ mathematical reasoning abilities
Authors: Maulida Aya Shofia , Wahyudin Wahyudin , Turmudi Turmudi , Nurlaelah Elah
Published: August 2024

Self-regulated learning allows students to organize, monitor, and evaluate their learning process, which has a positive impact on mathematical reasoning abilities. This research aims to analyze and describe the differences in the influence of the level of self-regulated learning on students' mathematical reasoning abilities. The research method used is quantitative, which allows the collection and analysis of numerical data to identify patterns and relationships. The method's goal is to measure variables, test hypotheses, and make generalizations from a sample to a broader population. The sample for this research was eighth-grade students in Bandung. The research instrument is in the form of 30 questionnaire statements about students' self-regulated learning. The research hypothesis, there are differences in the influence of self-regulated learning levels on enhancing students’ mathematical reasoning abilities. The research results show that there are differences in the influence of the level of self-regulated learning on students' mathematical reasoning abilities. In addition, variations were found in the influence of the level of self-regulated learning on enhancing students' mathematical reasoning abilities. This research concludes that the level of self-regulated learning plays an important role in enhancing students' mathematical reasoning abilities.
The Intention to Use Mobile Banking as a Financial Technology Service among Islamic Bank Users
Authors: Juwita Ratna , Kusumah Adam Darma , Aqila Tiara Syahrani , Tsabitah Hanan , Syauqi Muhammad Farhan
Published: August 2024

The development of Financial Technology (FinTech) in Islamic banks has not brought increasing users. Therefore, it is necessary to determine which factors influence intention to use FinTech from the demand side or the customers’ side. For this study, we chose mobile banking as our research object, considering that the largest digital transactions in Islamic banks come from mobile banking. Mobile banking also provides banks various benefits to banks such as increased long-term profitability, customer loyalty, and financial inclusion. The objective of this study is to observe the determinant factor by using the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and its extensions, specifically attitude awareness, knowledge, and subjective norms that influence the intention to use mobile banking. This study gathers data regarding respondents from various generations, especially generations X, Z, and millennials. The results suggest that attitude and knowledge statistically have a positive effect, while awareness and subjective norms do not have a significant effect on intention to use mobile banking services among Islamic bank users. Islamic banks should better educate their consumers and focus on which factors inspire a positive attitude toward their customers to boost the adoption of mobile banking.
Advancing Equity in Local Health Departments: An Inside-Out Approach
Authors: Ward Marvin H. , Stanley Karen , Childs Georgia S. , Owens Lakecia D. , Davis Breyana
Published: August 2024

The North Carolina Division of Public Health, Chronic Disease and Injury Section recommends local health departments (LHDs) adopt an “inside-out” approach to advance health and racial equity. Internally, LHDs must increase their capacity to address equity by establishing LHD policies and practices that prioritize equity and nurture a culture of trust. Externally, LHDs must seek guidance from historically marginalized populations to inform LHD policy changes and community-based public health approaches affecting these populations for greater engagement in LHD programs. ( Am J Public Health. 2024;114(S7):S554–S557. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307719 )
LUNTURNYA TRADISI KENDURI PADA MASA PANDEMI COVID-19
Authors: Faristiana Andhita Risko
Published: August 2024

Artikel ini membahas lunturnya tradisi kenduri akibat aturan atau larangan di Desa Serangan Sukorejo Ponorogo pada masa pandemi covid-19. Larangan itu berdasarkan surat edaran Bupati Ponorogo Nomor: 188.45/477/405.01.3/2021. Salah satu inti berdasarkan surat edaran tadi adalah melarang kegiatan hajatan termasuk tradisi kenduri. Fokus utama penelitian ini adalah pada bagaimana dampak dari larangan tradisi kenduri di Desa Serangan Sukorejo Ponorogo dimasa pandemi covid-19 dengan menggunakan penelitian lapangan (field research) dengan menggunakan sampel purposif, pengumpulan data dilakukan melalui observasi, wawancara dan juga dianalisis dalam dokumentasi yang berbeda dan kemudian diinterpretasikan secara kualitatif. Hasil penelitian ini menjabarkan dampak larangan tradisi kenduri masyarakat Desa Serangan selama pandemic covid yakni, hilangnya momen kebersamaan dan rasa sosial masyarakat Desa Serangan serta lunturnya tradisi kenduri dan komponen di dalamnya.
TRANSFORMAÇÕES ESPACIAIS NA CIDADE DE VITÓRIA DO XINGU-PA A PARTIR DA CONSTRUÇÃO DA USINA HIDRELÉTRICA DE BELO MONTE
Authors: OLIVEIRA LIVANIA NORBERTA , Cornélio Genilson Santana , COSTA MARIA JOSIENE DE CASTRO
Published: August 2024

Na Amazônia, a implantação dos grandes projetos de investimentos tem ocasionado um conjunto de desdobramentos nos espaços onde são inseridos, antes, durante e depois da construção, portanto, torna-se importante compreender essas alterações. Este trabalho faz uma análise das especificidades da cidade de Vitória do Xingu, no estado do Pará, cidade que foi inserida no contexto dos Grandes Projetos de Investimentos a partir da construção da Usina Hidrelétrica de Belo Monte, no território municipal desde 2011. A pesquisa baseou-se na percepção da população em relação as particularidades e as especificidades urbanas do município, por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas, com diferentes sujeitos locais, utilizou-se de mapeamentos, registros fotográficos, pesquisas bibliográficas e documentais. Verificou-se que a construção da Usina é a principal responsável pelas transformações espaciais na cidade de Vitória do Xingu em função do emprego dos royalties, particularizando-a de outras cidades ribeirinhas no contexto regional. A julgar pelos entrevistados, o estudo aqui discorrido explicita o agrado pelos investimentos, principalmente na área de lazer, bem como, a população denuncia, a imposição de novas formas de organização e relação entre si mesmos e com o espaço reestruturado. A construção da usina foi determinante no cenário de mudanças na estrutura da cidade, haja visto que a cidade não apresentava mudanças significativas nos períodos que antecederam a chegada do empreendimento.
Association between sleep and gallstone disease in US adult: A population- based study
Authors: Xu Cheng , Song Zhen , Bian Xin-hai , Li Chong-chao
Published: August 2024

Objective
This study aimed to investigate the association between sleep factors (sleep duration and trouble sleeping) and the risk of gallstone disease.
Methods
Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database spanning from 2017 to 2020, we assessed the relationship between sleep factors (sleep duration and trouble sleeping) and the risk of gallstone disease through logistic regression analysis and subgroup analysis. We addressed the nonlinear relationship between sleep duration and the risk of gallstone disease using generalized additive models and smooth curve fittings.
Results
A total of 9,126 participants were included in the study, among whom 978 self-reported a history of gallstone disease. In the fully adjusted model, individuals with long sleep duration (> 9 hours) exhibited a lower likelihood of gallstone disease compared to those with short sleep duration (< 9 hours) (OR = 0.714, 95% CI: 0.527, 0.967). The generalized additive model and smoothed curve fitting further confirmed the negative association between sleep duration and gallstone disease risk. Trouble sleeping was positively correlated with gallstone disease (OR: 1.513, 95% CI: 1.270, 1.802). However, subgroup analysis indicated that the association between sleep factors and gallstone disease varied according to BMI grouping.
Conclusion
This nationally representative survey revealed a negative correlation between sleep duration and the risk of gallstone disease, while trouble sleeping showed a positive correlation with gallstone disease risk.
Catalyzing Green Lubricants into Graphitic Carbon Layers by Iron Single Atoms to Reduce Friction and Wear
Authors: Li Jinjin , Song Wei , Zeng Chongyang , Wong Janet S. S. , Ouyang Chuke , Erdemir Ali , Sun Shouyi , Lee Seungjoo , Zhang Weiwei , Luo Jianbin , Chen Xing
Published: August 2024

Reducing friction and wear in moving mechanical systems is essential for their intended functionality. This is currently accomplished using a large variety of anti-friction and anti-wear additives, that usually contain sulfur and phosphorous both of which cause harmful emission. Here, we introduce a series of diesters, typically dioctyl malate (DOM), as green and effective anti-friction and anti-wear additives which reduce wear by factors of 5–7 and friction by over 50% compared to conventional additives when tested under extreme pressures (up to 2.78 GPa). Surface studies show that these impressive properties are primarily due to the formation of a 30 nm graphitic tribofilm that protects rubbing surfaces against wear and hence provides low shear stress at nanoscale. This graphitic tribofilm is prone to form from diesters dereived from short-chain carboxylic acid due to their lone pair effect, which stabilizes the carbon free radicals. Furthermore, the formation of this tribofilm was catalyzed by nascent iron single atoms, which were in-situ generated due to the mechanochemical effects during sliding contact. Computational simulations provided additional insights into the steps involved in the catalytic decomposition of DOM by iron and the formation of a graphitic carbon tribofilm. Due to its superior anti-friction and wear properties, DOM holds promise to replace conventional additives, and thus provide a green and more effective alternative for next-generation lubricant formulations.
A Pilot Study: Interrupted Time-Series Analysis of the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Antimicrobial Stewardship in a Secondary Care Setting in the United Kingdom
Authors: Elshenawy Rasha Abdelsalam , Umaru Nkiruka , Aslanpour Zoe
Published: August 2024

This pilot study examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) practices in a UK secondary care setting. An interrupted time-series analysis compared antibiotic prescribing patterns for respiratory tract infections (RTIs) before (2019) and during (2020) the pandemic. The study, involving 80 admissions, highlights shifts in AMS practices. Community Acquired Pneumonia (CAP) was the most frequent diagnosis. Compliance with AMS practices, based on the PHE SMTF toolkit, showed 100% for clinical indication and drug allergy documentation. However, CURB-65 Score compliance remained at 60%, and other AMS interventions varied, with decreased compliance during the pandemic. RTI admissions peaked at 15 in December 2019, declined to 9 in June and September 2020. The study emphasizes the need for adaptable AMS strategies during health crises to mitigate antimicrobial resistance and maintain effective patient care. Future research should focus on developing resilient AMS frameworks for global health emergencies.
Investigation on the Use of Microorganisms in the Microbiological Breakdown of Synthetic Polymers
Authors: Diddigi Geeta , B Ramalingappa
Published: August 2024

Although a wide spectrum of consumers demand the exceptional performance qualities that polymers offer to modern society, managing the fate of polymers in the environment has grown to be a major management challenge. For product engineers looking for features with a long lifetime, polymer applications provide appealing molecular architectures. These qualities play a significant role in how long plastics or polymers can last in the environment. Recent reports of microbial breakdown of polymeric materials give new emerging technological alternatives to change the significant pollution issue incurred via use of polymers/plastics. There is a substantial body of literature from which prospective biological technology future development paths might be inferred. To supply the database from which a new technique was built, each report of microbial driven polymer degradation must be characterized in great detail. The kinetics of the degradation process must be addressed as part of the development, and novel methods to accelerate the rate of deterioration must be discovered. The quest to design new technologies involves an implicit awareness of how biotic and abiotic deterioration interact.
A single-centre, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, 2-arm study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of once-weekly Sirolimus (Rapamycin) on muscle strength and endurance in older adults following a 13-week exercise program.
Authors: Stanfield Brad , Kaeberlein Matt , Leroux Brian , Jones Julie , Lucas Ruth , Arroll Bruce
Published: August 2024

Background Aging leads to a decline in muscle mass and strength, contributing to frailty and decreased quality of life. Sirolimus (Rapamycin), an mTOR inhibitor, has shown potential in preclinical studies to extend lifespan and improve healthspan. This study evaluates the safety and efficacy of once-weekly Sirolimus (Rapamycin) administration on muscle strength and endurance in older adults engaged in a 13-week exercise program.Methods This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial will enrol 40 participants aged 65–85. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either Sirolimus (Rapamycin) 6 mg/week or placebo for 13 weeks, in conjunction with an at-home exercise program. The primary outcome measure is the change in muscle strength and endurance, assessed by the 30-Second Chair-Stand Test. Secondary outcome measures include adverse events, changes in muscle strength and endurance as measured by the 6-minute walk test, handgrip strength, and participant-reported outcomes using the SF-36 survey. Assessments will be conducted at baseline, mid-intervention (week 6), and post-intervention (week 13). Blood samples will be collected for hematology and biochemistry analyses, including full blood count, urea and electrolytes, liver function tests, HbA1c, lipids, serum IGF-1, and hs-CRP. DNA methylation will be analyzed using TruDiagnostic™ to explore changes in biological age.Discussion This study aims to provide insights into the potential benefits of intermittent Sirolimus (Rapamycin) administration on muscle performance in older adults. By alternating periods of mTOR inhibition through Rapamycin and activation via exercise, this study will explore a novel approach to enhancing muscle strength and endurance in the aging population. The results could have significant implications for developing interventions to improve physical function and overall health outcomes in older adults. Safety and tolerability will also be closely monitored to ensure the feasibility of this regimen for wider application.Trial registration: The trial is registered in the Australia New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12624000790549) on the 26th June 2024. https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?ACTRN=12624000790549
A Qualitative Study Exploring Patient Global Impression of Disease Severity in Early Stages of Parkinson’s Disease.
Authors: Williams A , Stroupe Angela , Rosario C del , Umanzor-Figueroa C , Symonds T , Durlach C
Published: August 2024

Introduction
Although Parkinson’s Disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disease, the lived experience of individuals with early-stage Parkinson’s has not received much attention. This study sought to understand how the spectrum of severity is described and perceived by this population using the Patient-Global Impressions of Severity scale. Additionally, early-stage Parkinson’s patients described what symptoms and quality of life impacts were most important to the early stages of the Parkinson’s experience.
Methods
In this study, 17 participants with early-stage Parkinson’s (1-2.5 on the modified Hoehn and Yahr scale) were interviewed about their experience with Parkinson’s as well as cognitively debriefed on the Patient Global Impressions of Severity scale. Analysis was performed using NVivo 13 a qualitative analysis software.
Results
Most participants reported tremors as their most bothersome symptom and the impact to their daily lives was most disruptive. Nearly every participant spoke about the emotional burden of their Parkinson’s diagnosis. Contemplating the future of their disease had a significant impact, which several said caused them to experience anxiety and/or depression. Participants were also able to describe the spectrum of severity for Parkinson’s and its quality of life impact, including severity levels they have not yet reached, using the global severity scale.
Discussion
This study highlights that even at the early stages of the disease, individuals living with Parkinson’s experience a wide range of symptoms and related quality of life impacts which shape their daily experience and contribute to perceptions of severity.
P-doped NiCo LDH loaded three-dimensional substrate as an efficient oxygen evolution electrocatalyst
Authors: Zhang Jingchun , Weatherspoon Erin , Alsubaie Abdullah Saad , Burcar Ethan , DeMerle Ashley , El-Bahy Zeinhom M. , Wang Zhe
Published: August 2024

Developing new clean energy sources and equipment to replace fossil fuel usage is an urgent global priority. However, one such essential method, electrolytic water hydrogen production's characteristics of slow kinetics and high potential barrier of the anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) hinder the large-scale application of such an approach. While precious metal catalysts have shown excellent catalytic activity, their high cost limits their feasibility for large-scale implementation. As a result, the development of stable and low-cost oxygen evolution reaction catalysts is critical. Transition metal layered hydroxides (TM LDHs) have been widely studied as a promising candidate for water electrolysis catalysis for their unique two-dimensional layered structure, high specific surface area, great electron exchangeability, and densely distributed active sites. Here in this research, we have synthesized nickel cobalt phosphide LDH (P-NiCo-LDH) that maximizes the utilization of foam nickel as the conductive substrate while protecting the phosphated LDH. This work proposes a practical approach for developing LDH as an OER catalyst and contributes to the ongoing efforts to advance sustainable clean energy sources.
Should Adolescents and Young Adults With Hodgkin Lymphoma Be Treated as Children or Adults?
Authors: Lew-Derivry Lucille , Chevillon Florian , Brice Pauline , Bigenwald Camille , Landman-Parker Judith , Leblanc Thierry , BOISSEL Nicolas , Cabannes-Hamy Aurélie
Published: August 2024

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is one of the most common cancers in adolescents and young adults (AYA). Pediatric and adult therapeutic strategies diverge while sharing the common objective: maintaining optimal efficacy with less long-term toxicity. However, few studies have compared the outcome of AYA treated according to one or the other approach.
Among the 148 patients aged 15 to 25 years, treated at Saint-Louis Hospital for newly diagnosed HL between 2012 and 2018, 71 were treated according to an adult protocol and 77 according to a pediatric one. The 5-year OS and PFS were respectively 100% and 85%, with no significant difference between treatment groups (85% in pediatric vs 86% in adult, p=0.7). Overall, the 5-year PFS was 100% for early favorable stages and 78% for advanced stages.
A higher risk of short-term steroid and vincristine-related toxicities was observed in pediatric regimen, whereas a higher risk of late toxicities was expected in adult regimen, due to higher anthracyclines, procarbazine, bleomycin and radiotherapy exposure.
These results confirm the excellent outcome of AYA patients with HL, whatever the treatment strategies. They justify a tailor-made therapeutic decision and highlight the importance of managing AYA patients in dedicated units with trained professionals.
Circular RNA KIF18A promotes development of hepatocellular carcinoma via influencing KPNA2 in Estrogen signaling pathway
Authors: Yuan Meng , Chen Qing , Weng Jing , Meng Meng , Lei Ji-an , Ren Siqian , Sadula Abuduhaibaier , Wang Hangyan , Ma Zhaolai , Jiang Bing , Zhang Li , Xiu Dianrong , Li Lei , Yuan Chunhui , Bing Yuntao
Published: August 2024

Background & Aims: There are notable gender disparities in the incidence and mortality rates of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Women have comparatively lower incidence and mortality rates of HCC than men. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have emerged as pivotal regulators in HCC biology, yet their functions in patients of different genders remain unexplored. In this investigation, we aimed to identify the significant circRNA between male and female patients, and to explore its functional implications and underlying molecular mechanisms in the progression of HCC.
Methods: First, we used microarray and found circRNA transcripts that are differently expressed in men and women patients with HCC. Then, through bioinformatics analysis, we identified a significant circular RNA KIF18A, and validated its expression in cells. And we analyzed the differentially expressed transcriptome genes between HCC cells with circKIF18A knockout and normal cells. Using bioinformatics methods, we identified pathways and proteins that may be associated with circKIF18A regulation. Meanwhile, we performed cell behavioral experiments to demonstrate the knockdown of circRNAs’ implication on HCC.
Results: A novel circRNA named circKIF18A was found upregulated in males with HCC compared with females, promoting cell proliferation and migration, while inhibiting apoptosis. We performed extensive bioinformatic analyses, we discovered that the estrogen receptor pathway might be involved in KIF18A regulation of hepatocellular carcinoma. Within this pathway, KPNA2 was identified as the most significantly differentially expressed protein, and it is associated with the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Conclusions: Our working hypothesis suggests that circKIF18A may orchestrate KPNA2 through the estrogen signaling pathway, demonstrating their combined significance as promoting roles in the initiation and progression of HCC. Meanwhile, this finding may provide potential evidence for the observed disparities in incidence and mortality rates of HCC between male and female patients; however, further experimental validation is required.
Quantitatively evaluation of the hydrogen bonding effects on the crystallization kinetics of poly (vinyl alcohol)/tea polyphenol composites
Authors: He Xiao , Zhang Li-Hua , Shen Qing
Published: August 2024

The crystallization kinetics behavior of PVA (poly (vinyl alcohol)) /TP (tea polyphenol) composites was studied in this paper. Results showed that the addition of TP component in such composites would reduce the crystallinity, leading to the formation of a lower Avrami exponent, n, based on crystal structures and nucleation. Under the fixed cooling rate condition, the n values of Avrami and α values of Mo are both higher for the above composites with TP ingredient at 10–20%. Subsequently, the influence of the hydrogen bonding (H-bonding) in PVA/TP composites, pure PVA and non-hydrogen bonding (non-H-bonding) in such composites were further quantitatively assessed by analyzing the H-bonding factor, F%, in relation to different crystallization kinetic parameters including Avrami exponent n, Zt, α, and F(T). Results showed that the relationship of Avrami exponent n and α were presented as n=-a1 + b1FPVA/TPH−bonding-c1F2PVA/TPH−bonding and α=-a5 + b5FPVA/TPH−bonding-c5F2PVA/TPH−bonding. The Zt were described as the functions like Zt=a2-b2e(FPVA/TPH−bonding−c2)/d, Zt=-a3 + b3FPVAH − bonding-C3F2PVAH − bonding, and Zt = a4(Fnon−H−bonding-b4)c4 respectively. The F(T) was presented as F(T) = a6−b6FPVA/TPH−bonding+c6F2PVA/TPH−bonding, where a, b and c are positive constants.
First aid knowledge, attitude, practice, and associated factors among primary school teachers in Jimma Town, South West Ethiopia, 2023
Authors: Endale Dereje , Hailu Digafe , Bekelcho Tariku
Published: August 2024

Background
Childhood accidents and injuries are the leading causes of death among school-age children, the majority of whom need only first aid measures. First aid measures can make the difference between life and death if they are applied by experienced personnel. The main aim of this study was to assess first aid knowledge, attitudes, practices, and associated factors among primary school teachers in Jimma Town.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted. The data were collected through a self-administered and structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed with SPSS version 26 software. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to test the associations between dependent and independent variables, and a P value < 0.05 was declared statistically significant.
Results
The study revealed that only 44.8% of participants were knowledgeable. Service year (AOR: 10.7, 95% CI; 2.6, 44.7), school type (AOR: 11.8, 95% CI; 3.9, 34.9), and previous first aid training (AOR: 6.5, 95% CI; 2.5, 17.2) were significantly associated with the level of knowledge about first aid. Moreover, being a female teacher (AOR: 2.3, 95% CI: 1.4, 3.9), service year (AOR: 3.3, 95% CI: 1.7, 6.3), negative attitude (AOR: 0.4, 95% CI: 0.2, 0.7)) and first aid training (AOR: 0.3, 95% CI: 0.2, 0.7) were significantly associated with the level of practice in first aid.
Conclusion
The primary schoolteachers’ knowledge of first aid was low. Generally, there needs to be awareness creation for teachers by giving training on the knowledge and basic skills required in providing first aid.
Estimating the Spread Scenario of Acute Diarrhea and Dengue Diseases in India: A Comparative Analysis of Statistical, Mathematical, and Deep Learning Models
Authors: Singh Avaneesh , Bajpai Manish Kumar , Sharma Krishna Kumar , Kalare Kailash Wamanrao , Tripathi Ashutosh , Sharma Abhinav
Published: August 2024

This work estimates the spread scenario of acute diarrhoea and dengue diseases in India. Statistical, mathematical (compartmental), and deep learning time series models are employed to forecast the spread of these diseases. Predictions are based on the reported cases and fatalities recorded between January 1, 2011, and December 31, 2021. Ten different techniques for disease spread forecast, including Regression, Bayesian Linear Regression MultiOutputRegressor + XGBoost, SIR model, Prophet, NBEATS, Gluonts, LSTM, Seq2Seq, and ARIMA statistical model, are evaluated using mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) and root mean square error (RMSE) as evaluation parameters. The ARIMA model outperforms cases of acute diarrheal disease with an RMSE value of 317.7 and a MAPE value of 2.4. The Seq2Seq model performs better for dengue cases with an RMSE value of 399.1 and a MAPE value of 6.3. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers in developing and monitoring strategies to combat these diseases.
DGKZ Promotes Tumor Progression in Bladder Cancer Cells by Modulating Phosphatidic Acid Biosynthesis through Interaction with CEBPZ Protein
Authors: Ma Baojie , Chen Mingzhe , Xiao Xiong , Guo Shanqi , Jiang Xingkang , Wang Nan
Published: August 2024

Diacylglycerol kinase ζ (DGKZ) plays a crucial role in converting diacylglycerol to phosphatidic acid, yet its specific involvement in bladder cancer (BCa) progression remains unclear. We utilized clinical samples from tissue microarrays and conducted Immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining to evaluate DGKZ expression in human bladder tissues. Cell growth, apoptosis, wound-healing, and invasion assays were performed to assess DGKZ’s impact on cell proliferation. Co-immunoprecipitation assays coupled with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry explored DGKZ’s interactions with associated proteins. Analysis of the TCGA-BCa database revealed that elevated DGKZ expression correlates with tumor progression and poor prognosis in BCa patients, suggesting its potential as a pro-metastatic gene. Inhibition of DGKZ significantly reduced both in vitro and in vivo cell proliferation and invasion. Additionally, co-immunoprecipitation assays identified 1,743 potential protein interactors of DGKZ in T24 cells. Bioinformatics analysis and rescue experiments pinpointed CEBPZ as a DGKZ binding partner, with the interaction relying on DGKZ’s PDZ-binding motif in its C-terminus. Ectopic expression of CEBPZ countered the suppression of the Akt/mTOR pathway observed in DGKZ-knockdown BCa cells, thereby promoting phosphatidic acid biosynthesis. In conclusion, these findings underscore the significance of the DGKZ-CEBPZ interaction in BCa growth and pave the way for exploring therapeutic interventions targeting this interaction to inhibit DGKZ-mediated tumor growth in BCa.
Barriers and facilitators for universal Gestational Diabetes Mellitus screening in a low resource setting: A cross-sectional study in Sri Lanka
Authors: godevithana janaka , Wijesinghe Champa Jayalakshmie
Published: August 2024

Background
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is associated with adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes and increased risk of developing diabetes in later life. Sri Lanka adopted universal GDM screening at two time points in pregnancy (before 12 weeks and between 24 to 28 weeks) in 2014 and its utilization has not been assessed. This study assessed the utilization of GDM screening services and associated factors among antenatal mothers in Southern Sri Lanka.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was carried out in a consecutive sample of 420 postpartum mothers who delivered at three major hospitals in Sri Lanka. Data were collected on socio-demographics, pregnancy, availability and utilization of screening services and logistics using an interviewer-administered questionnaire and a data record sheet. Data was analysed using SPSS software. Chi-square test and binary logistic regression was used to assess the association between variables.
Results
The coverage of first and second screening tests were 91.4% and 94.5% and timeliness was 72.4% and 59.5%, respectively. The median period of amenorrhoea at the first and second screening were 10.0 (inter-quartile range-2.5) weeks and 28.0 (inter-quartile range-1.5) weeks. A higher utilization was associated with higher income (OR = 3.4, 95% CI – 1.1–10.5) and planned pregnancy (OR = 4.9, 95% CI – 2.2–10.7) for the first screening test. Primiparity (OR = 0.3, 95% CI – 0.1–0.9) and proximity of the nearest laboratory (OR = 3.5, 95% CI – 1.0–12.0) were positively associated with the second screening test. The timeliness of both screening tests was associated with planned pregnancy (OR = 2.1, 95% CI – 1.1-4.0 and OR = 2.3, 95% CI – 1.1–4.5) and being non-employed during the pregnancy (OR = 2.5, 95% CI – 1.4–4.3 and OR = 2.3, 95% CI – 1.3–4.1).
Conclusions
A high utilization of GDM screening was observed. Timeliness should be ensured through improved availability and accessibility of screening facilities.
Water Spring Quality and its Distribution around Semarang City
Authors: Nugraha Satya Budi , Jamhur Jamhur , Al-Hanif Ervando Tommy
Published: August 2024

The increasing need for clean water cannot be balanced with a sustainable supply. Big cities in the world and Indonesia commonly experience it. Semarang is also one of the big cities needing help maintaining a clean water supply. The clean water supply managed by the Regional Enterprise of Semarang City can only reach some areas evenly. Therefore, many residents use alternative water sources (springs), which are spread across several locations in the Semarang area. However, the phenomenon of climate change has the potential to threaten the existence of these springs. In this study, ten samples of water springs were taken, which were used by the community as an alternative to meet their daily needs. The research results show that most of these springs have sufficient quantity potential with relatively stable water conditions throughout the year so that they can be used to meet people's daily needs. However, in terms of quality, most of them have fecal and total coliform values higher than the quality standards. It means that the water springs have the potential for contamination and, therefore, require further treatment before being used.
Optimizing Cervical Cancer Classification through Transfer Learning and Kernel Methods: Analyzing the Performance of Deep Gaussian Processes and Support Vector Machines on Pap smear Image Data
Authors: Ahishakiye Emmanuel , Kanobe Fredrick
Published: August 2024

Background
Cervical cancer is the fourth most frequent cancer in women worldwide. Even though cervical cancer deaths have decreased significantly in Western countries, low and middle-income countries account for nearly 90% of cervical cancer deaths. While Western countries are leveraging the powers of artificial intelligence (AI) in the health sector, most countries in sub-Saharan Africa are still lagging. In Uganda, cytologists manually analyze Pap smear images for the detection of cervical cancer, a process that is highly subjective, slow, and tedious. Machine learning (ML) algorithms have been used in the automated classification of cervical cancer. However, most of the MLs have overfitting limitations which limits their deployment, especially in the health sector where accurate predictions are needed.
Methods
In this study, we propose two kernel-based algorithms for automated detection of cervical cancer. These algorithms are (1) an optimized support vector machine (SVM), and (2) a deep Gaussian Process (DGP) model. The SVM model proposed uses an optimized radial basis kernel while the DGP model uses a hybrid kernel of periodic and local periodic kernel.
Results
Experimental results revealed accuracy of 100% and 99.48% for an optimized SVM model and DGP model respectively. Results on precision, recall, and F1 score were also reported.
Conclusions
The proposed models performed well on cervical cancer detection and classification, and therefore suitable for deployment. We plan to deploy our proposed models in a mobile application-based tool. The limitation of the study was the lack of access to high-performance computational resources.
Usefulness of lateral-anteroposterior diameter ratio on computed tomography for evaluation of the effect of posterior tracheopexy on tracheomalacia associated with esophageal atresia
Authors: Sumida Wataru , Tainaka Takahisa , Shirota Chiyoe , Makita Satoshi , Amano Hizuru , Yasui Akihiro , Maeda Takuya , Kato Daiki , Goda Yosuke , Ishii Hiroki , Ota Kazuki , Yaohui Guo , Jiahui Liu , Hinoki Akinari , Uchida Hiroo
Published: August 2024

Purpose:
Tracheomalacia (TM) with esophageal atresia (EA) is a common condition. Compression by brachiocephalic artery (BCA) is a factor of TM. Previous research focused on the lateral-to-anteroposterior tracheal diameter ratio (LAR) on computed tomography (CT). The current study examined the changes of LAR and the postoperative course by posterior tracheopexy (PT).
Methods:
This study included patients undergoing thoracoscopic repair for EA. PT was performed during thoracoscopic repair on patients with bronchoscopy-confirmed TM. The clinical courses and LAR were retrospectively analyzed.
Results:
In total, 14 of 18 patients with TM underwent PT. Six patients who underwent PT also underwent CT before and after surgery. Their median LAR improved from 2.26 to 1.50. Of the 14 patients who underwent PT, 8 were discharged without any respiratory support. Meanwhile, four patients were discharged with respiratory support and were successfully weaned within a year. Two patients required tracheostomy. Furthermore, one patient with tracheobronchomalacia who had a postoperative LAR of 2.25 subsequently required external tracheal stenting. Four patients without TM did not undergo PT. Their median LAR was 1.59, which was lower than the preoperative LAR of patients with TM.
Conclusion:
Aggressive PT significantly alleviates TM symptoms, and LAR is a direct severity indicator.
Improved extraction efficiency of radioactive copper produced via Accelerator Neutrons method through Phosphate Buffer-enhanced column pre-treatment
Authors: Mikhail Mary Alfonse George , Kin Tadahiro , Eto Taisei , Tsukada Kazuaki
Published: August 2024

We report a straightforward and robust method for isolating medical copper radioisotopes, 64Cu and 67Cu, generated by an accelerator neutrons technique from natZn(n,x). This study reveals the key role of a phosphate buffer pre-treatment of the cation exchange column in the separation process. The incorporation of the phosphate buffer into the column pre-treatment, markedly enhances the retention of copper isotopes within the column throughout the separation procedure. This approach yields a high-purity copper sample (almost 100%) with a high extraction efficiency of 94.37(± 1.48)% of the initially produced copper within a short experimental time (approximately 5 hours for 100 g of the starting material). This one-step separation scheme is reproducible across a range of starting material target sizes, from small (10 g) to large (100 g). The high-quality copper radioisotopes obtained are suitable for use in pre-clinical and clinical studies. Thus, this approach offers a more effective means for routine preparation of copper radioisotopes.