bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incidence, Prevalence, and Characteristics of Injuries in Pole Dancers: A Systematic Review
Authors: Scott Caitlin , Scott Quentin , Muscat Simone
Published: May 2024

OBJECTIVES: Pole dancing is an extreme form of performance physical activity, combining considerable feats of muscular strength, flexibility, dancing and acrobatics on a vertical metal apparatus. Despite rapid growth in the artform, many pole dancers continue to participate without
fulfilling physical requirements to withstand the forces and physicality required. The aim of this systematic review was to determine the incidence, prevalence and characteristics of injuries sustained by pole dancing participants reported in published studies. METHODS: Five databases were
comprehensively searched in February 2023. Authors independently screened titles and abstracts, with full copies of eligible studies reviewed using specific inclusion/exclusion criteria. Studies were included if they referenced pole dancing, were in English language and Level I-III-3 in accordance
with the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council, with case reports considered if included ≥10 participants. The National Institute of Health quality assessment tool for observational cohort and cross-sectional studies was used to review the quality of reporting of selected
studies. RESULTS: Eleven articles were retrieved based on searches, with five studies meeting full inclusion/exclusion criteria, published between 2020–2022. In total 787 study participants were identified, with 623 sustaining a total of 1,803 pole dancing injuries. Data from all studies
in injury profiles reported 42.4% of injuries sustained to the upper limb, 44.8% lower limb, 10.5% trunk, 0.02% associated with the head and neck, and several injuries affecting multiple regions. Acute injuries comprised 51.6% of reported injuries compared to 48.4% chronic. Injury characteristics
were varied due to inconsistencies in reporting across studies. CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review highlights a paucity of knowledge regarding injuries in pole dancing, perhaps expected with a relatively young sport. Improvement in reporting is required to aid in identification of injuries
and opportunities for development of injury risk reduction strategies. PROSPERO Registration no. CRD42023401012
Outfit between Needs and Requirements of Times: Maqashidi Analysis of al-A'raf [7]:31
Authors: Assaidi Sadullah
Published: May 2024

The question of hedonism has become commonplace because the tendency to smell earthly pleasure, luxury, or what is identical to wasting money for interests that are not for primary needs is a form of foya-foya and has taken root in a long-lasting habit, more related to style outfits. The discussion about outfits has been in the Qur'an, one of which is in QS. Al-A'raf [7]:31, which refers to the word az-zinatu. The interpreters of the Qur’an have interpreted it in various ways, such as treasures, jewelry, and clothing. The majority of the interpreters mean something that covers the body. As for the word israf in this verse, it is a way of excessive prohibition that leads to wastefulness and being trapped in hedonism. By using the Tafsir Maqashidi method, this article builds on previous interpretations of the terms az-zinatu and al-israf in particular, revealing that the behavior of israf is not only aimed at the health aspects of the body in the context of eating and drinking alone but also as an excessive ban on dressing. This article will show an understanding that excessive outfits can have a negative impact, up to mubazir. The use of the maqashidi tafsir method in this article is not only because this method is the latest, but it can also be used to understand various sentences such as social verses, science, and others. The result of this article is about the outfit in QS. Al-A’raf [7]: 31 indicates that the word israf also refers to the outfit of human beings. In addition, this article also focuses on the social aspect of QS. Al-A’raf [7]: 31 covers social relations to all mankind on earth in dress. Thus, this verse confirms that humans are wise in deciding behavior in outfits, as the words az-zinatu and al-israf become the basis for determining attitudes in order to achieve hifdz daulah and hifdz nafs, so that the maqashidi in this verse can be widely felt in the lives of human audiences in this world.
Non-invasive detection and monitoring of childhood meningitis
(“UNITED Meningitis - Ultrasound Non-Invasive Technology for Early Diagnosis of Meningitis”)
Authors: Bassat Quique , Quesada Rita , Pellicer Adelina , Cabañas Fernando , Ajanovic Sara
Published: May 2024

Meningitis can be a life-threatening disease if not promptly diagnosed and treated. Among infants and neonates with a permeable fontanelle, clinical presentation is usually unspecific, justifying the need for an invasive procedure such as lumbar puncture (LP) in order to rule in or out meningitis. This investigation aims to validate a non-invasive, ultrasound-based transfontanelllar device to screen for meningitis by counting WBC beneath the anterior fontanelle. A customized ultrasonic probe working at 20mHz will be used to detect white blood cells, and deep-learning models will be trained for classification. The proof-of-concept study will include 16 participants, and sensitivity and specificity of the device will be calculated. The study will be performed in three Spanish Hospitals, and will include children under 12 months old, a permeable fontanelle, suspected meningitis and a LP performed within 24h before recruitment. The expected time to reach the pre-defined sample size is 18 months.
Adipose gene expression profiles and their associations with adaptations in Northern Finncattle, Mirandesa cattle, Yakutian cattle and Holstein cattle
Authors: Ruvinskiy Daniil , Amaral Andreia , Weldenegodguad Melak , Ammosov Innokentyi , Honkatukia Mervi , Lindeberg Heli , Peippo Jaana , Popov Ruslan , Soppela Päivi , Stammler Florian , Uimari Pekka , Ginja Catarina , Kantanen Juha , Pokharel Kisun
Published: June 2024

Background
The drastic change in global climate has led to in-depth studies of the genetic resources of native cattle adapted to challenging environments. Native cattle breed data may harbor unique variants that will enable the generation of new tools to improve the adaptation potential of commercial cattle breeds. Adipose tissues are key factors in the regulation of metabolism and energy balance and are crucial for the molecular switches needed to adapt to rapid environmental and nutritional changes. The transcriptome landscape of four adipose tissues was used in this study to investigate the effect of the environment on the gene expression profiles of three local breeds, Yakutian cattle (Sakha Republic), Northern Finncattle (Finland), Mirandesa cattle (Portugal) and commercial Holstein cattle.
Results
A total of 26 animals (12 cows, 14 bulls) yielded 81 samples of perirenal adipose tissue (n = 26), metacarpal adipose tissue (n = 26), tailhead adipose tissue (n = 26) and prescapular adipose tissue (n = 3). More than 17,000 genes were expressed in our dataset. Principal component analysis of the normalized expression profiles revealed a differential expression profile of the metacarpal adipose tissue. We found that the genes upregulated in the metacarpal adipose tissue of Yakutian cattle, such as NR4A3, TEKT3, and FGGY, were associated with energy metabolism and response to cold temperatures. In Mirandesa cattle, the upregulated genes in perirenal adipose tissue were related to immune response and inflammation (AVPR2, CCN1, and IL6), while in Northern Finncattle, the upregulated genes appeared to be involved in various physiological processes, including energy metabolism (IGFBP2). According to the sex-based comparisons, the most interesting result was the upregulation of the TPRG1 gene in three tissues of Yakutian cattle females, suggesting that adaptation is related to feed efficiency.
Conclusions
The highest number of differentially expressed genes was found between Yakutian cattle and Holstein, several of which were associated with immunity in Yakutian cattle, indicating potential differences in disease resistance and immunity between the two breeds. This study highlights the vast difference in gene expression profiles in adipose tissues between breeds from different climatic environments, most likely highlighting selective pressure and the potential significance of the uniquely important regulatory functions of metacarpal adipose tissue.
Estimation of the mortality attributable to heat in France between 2014 and 2023: an indicator to document the health effects of climate change
Authors: Pascal Mathilde , Wagner Vérène , Lagarrigue Robin , Casamatta Delphine , Pouey Jérôme , Vincent Nicolas , Boulanger Guillaume
Published: June 2024

Developing indicators to monitor spatial and temporal trends in the health effects of climate change is crucial to encouraging adaptation. Heat is one of the most studied climate-related health issues, but its impact is still little known to decision-makers. We propose an approach for producing annual estimates of heat-related mortality, as an indicator to support adaptation policies.
A first step was to develop temperature-mortality relationships for each of the 96 metropolitan French departments, for summers (June- September) 2014-2022. Several approaches were tested to control for a possible influence of the COVID-19 pandemic since 2020. Those models were then used to compute the annual mortality attributable to heat for 2014-2023.
Heat-related risks tended to be slighly higher after the pandemic ; an increase from 19.8°C to 28.5°C was associated with a relative risk of 1.25 [CI 95% 1.21 :1.30] in 2004-2019, and 1.31 [1.24 :1.38] in 2020-2022. Between 2014 and 2023, 37,825 deaths [IC95% 34,273 : 40,483] were attributable to heat. The largest impacts are observed in 2022 (6,969 [6,277 : 7,445]), 2023 (5 167 [4 587 ; 5 551]), and 2019 (4,441 [4,086 : 4,717]).
The 2014-2022 temperature-mortality relationships will be used to compute the heat-related mortality for the coming year. A regular update of the relationships is planned. This indicator documents the mortality impact of heat during the summer and during extreme heat waves. It shows that the impact is increasing, despite major prevention efforts. This call for a more ambitious, transformative adaptation to climate change.
Different Digestive Tract Complications of Neonatal-Onset Infants with Severe Cow Milk Protein Allergy
Authors: Ye Liping , Geng Lanlan , Yang Min , Chen Peiyu , Xie Jing , Li Huiwen , Gong Sitang
Published: June 2024

The objective of this study was to summarize different digestive tract complications of five neonatal-onset infants with severe cow milk protein allergy (CMPA) to improve early diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of CMPA. We retrospectively analyzed various digestive tract complications of the five infants who were hospitalized at Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center from July 2016 to June 2020. All five cases were full-term infants, with age at onset ranging from three to 28 days. Three neonates were formula-fed, and two were mixed-fed. The principal clinical manifestations included fever, diarrhea, vomiting, hematochezia, weight loss, edema, and skin ulcers. One infant was diagnosed with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and underwent surgery. Milk-specific IgE was elevated in three cases, and other food-specific IgE antibodies were elevated in two cases. Case 1 revealed severe erosive esophagitis and pyloric stenosis upon gastroscopy; case 2 revealed intestinal lymphatic dilation upon gastroscopy; case 3 showed scattered crater-like ulcers of varying sizes under colonoscopy, with some of the ulcerated tissues around the ulcers showing polypoid changes; case 4 showed ascites of approximately 16 mm in depth upon abdominal ultrasonographic scan; and case 5 depicted colonic stenosis and erosive colitis upon colonoscopy. All five children were cured after receiving either amino acid formula milk (AAF) or extensively hydrolyzed formula (eHF) for enteral nutrition feeding and supportive treatment. Severe CMPA in neonates presented with atypical clinical manifestations, and a variety of complications in various parts of the digestive tract occurred—including inflammation and stenosis—which were easily misdiagnosed as NEC or very-early-onset inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We posit that early diagnosis will reduce unnecessary operations and shorten treatment time.
Crystal structures of DCAF1-PROTAC-WDR5 ternary complexes provide insight into DCAF1 substrate specificity
Authors: Mabanglo Mark , Wilson Brian , Noureldin Mahmoud , Kimani Serah , Mamai Ahmed , Krausser Chiara , Gonzalez-Alvarez Hector , Srivast Smriti , Mohammed Mohammed , Chan Manuel , Hoffer Laurent , Avrumutsoae Jamie , Li Alice , Hajian Taraneh , Tucker Sarah , Green Stuart , Szewczyk Magdalena , Barsyte-Lovejoy Dalia , Santhakumar Vijayaratnam , Ackloo Suzanne , Loppnau Peter , Li Yanjun , Seitova Almagul , Kiyota Taira , Wang Jue , Patel Bhashant , Rathod Vaibhavi , Vala Anand , Rout Bhimsen , Poda Gennady , Uehling David , Ramnauth Jailall , Halabelian Levon , Marcellus Richard , Al-awar Rima , Aman Ahmed , Vedadi Masoud
Published: June 2024

Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) have been explored for the degradation of drug targets, particularly undruggable proteins, for more than two decades. They have been employed by various groups successfully, however only a handful of E3 ligase substrate receptors such as CRBN, VHL, MDM2, and IAP have been efficiently used. Downregulation and mutation of these receptors would reduce the effectiveness of PROTACs, thus necessitating the addition of new substrate receptors and E3 ligases to the repertoire to avoid resistance. We recently developed potent ligands for DCAF1, a substrate receptor of EDVP and CUL4 E3 ligases with diverse substrate specificity. Here, we focused on DCAF1 toward the development of PROTACs for WDR5, a drug target in various cancers. We report three DCAF1-based PROTACs with endogenous and exogenous WDR5 degradation effects and solved the first high-resolution crystal structures of DCAF1-PROTAC-WDR5 ternary complexes. The structures reveal detailed insights into the interaction of DCAF1 with various WDR5-PROTACs, including the finding that PROTACs can compress like a spring to similar effective lengths to keep DCAF1 and WDR5 within interaction distance of each other. Furthermore, specific DCAF1 loops play a significant role in providing surface plasticity needed to interact with different PROTAC-WDR5 complexes, reflecting the mechanism by which DCAF1 functions as a substrate receptor for E3 ligases with diverse sets of substrates.
M. tuberculosis bacilli in oral biopsies containing granulomatous inflammation with caseous necrosis
Authors: Signoretti-Silva Rubens Oliveira , Gomez Ricardo Santiago , Diniz Marina Gonçalves , Miranda Silvana Spíndola , Aguiar Renato Santana , Figueredo Lida Jouca Assis , Buzelin Marcelo Araújo , Araújo Thaís Lima , Bernardes Vanessa Fátima
Published: May 2024

Objectives This study aimed to investigate the presence of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacillus in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) oral samples that contained granulomas with caseous necrosis.
Materials and Methods FFPE biopsies that showed granulomas with caseous necrosis, suggestive of the diagnosis of tuberculosis, were selected. M. tuberculosis was searched by Ziehl-Neelsen staining (ZN), immunohistochemistry (IHC), nested-PCR, and GeneXpert® MTB/RIF assays.
Results Nine samples showing granulomas with caseous necrosis were selected. There was a predominance of males (2.5:1), with a mean age of 50 (19-89) years, and the tongue was the most affected anatomical site (n=4). The bacillus was not identified by the ZN technique in any sample, and IHC staining showed a coarse granular pattern staining, suggestive of M. tuberculosis, in three of them. Nested-PCR and the GeneXpert® MTB/RIF assays were positive in two and three of the samples, respectively.
Conclusions Molecular tests and IHC may be useful auxiliary methods for suspected cases of tuberculosis.
Clinical Relevance This study provides information on the utilization and efficacy of diagnostic methods necessary to aid pathologists in accurately diagnosing oral TB lesions.
VITAP: A High Precision Tool for DNA and RNA Viral Classification Based On Meta-omic Data
Authors: Wang Min , Zheng Kaiyang , Sun Jianhua , Liang Yantao , Paez-Espino David , Mcminn Andrew
Published: May 2024

The rapid growth in the number of newly identified DNA and RNA viral sequences underscores the urgent need for an accurate and comprehensive classification system for all viral realms at different levels. Here, a new Viral Taxonomic Assignment Pipeline (VITAP) is established, which addresses these challenges by integrating alignment-based techniques with graph, offering high precision in classifying both DNA and RNA viral sequences and providing confidence scores for each taxonomic unit. This tool automatically updates its database in sync with the latest references from the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV), efficiently classifying viral sequences as short as 1000 base pairs to genus level. VITAP's performance surpasses existing methods in accuracy, precision and recall across all DNA and RNA viral phyla. Its application in deep-sea viromes has led to significant taxonomic updates, providing more comprehensive diversity information of viruses from deep-sea. The VITAP is available at https://github.com/DrKaiyangZheng/VITAP.
Green synthesis of CuFe 2 O 4 nanoparticles using natural extracts: structural, optical and magnetic studies
Authors: Goli Maryam , Moradi Mehrdad , Bidgoli Reza Dehghani
Published: May 2024

There has been a growing interest in green synthetic methods of nanoscale materials based on natural extracts as they can have potential applications in various technologies and be benign to the environment. Here, copper ferrite (CuFe2O4) nanoparticles (NPs) are green synthesized through the utilization of natural extract surfactants (Cinnamon zeylanicum and Aloe vera) to act as fuel agents in a combustion method. For comparison purposes, CuFe2O4 NPs are also synthesized by polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) surfactant, while also investigating structural, morphological, optical, and magnetic properties of the resulting NPs by different techniques. X-ray diffraction patterns indicate the formation of cubic and tetragonal crystal structures using Aloe vera and PVP surfactants, respectively. Field-emission scanning electron microscopic images reveal significant reductions in average size of the green synthesized NPs compared to those prepared in the presence of PVP surfactant. However, the bandgap values of the NPs are similar to each other. Hysteresis loop measurements show enhanced saturation magnetization (Ms= 39.63 emu/g) and decreased coercivity (Hc= 57 Oe) of CuFe2O4 NPs using Aloe vera surfactant compared to Ms= 22.43 emu/g and Hc= 1260 Oe obtained by PVP surfactant. In this regard, first-order reversal curve analysis manifests predominant superparamagnetic contribution of the NPs synthesized in the presence of Aloe vera natural extract.
Assessing the YAM-5 and PeSSKi questionnaires as tools for mental health screening in migrant children ages 7-12 years living on the Thailand-Myanmar border
Authors: Howat John , Paw Ta Pla , Htoo Klay , Win Htun Htun , Hanboonkunupakam Borimas , Nosten François , Fellmeth Gracia , Chu Cindy S
Published: May 2024

Background
Migrant children face worse health outcomes due to structural inequalities and stressors specific to migratory status. In Southeast Asia, there are limited data regarding the prevalence of mental health disorders and symptoms of stress within the paediatric migrant population. Screening tools such as the Youth Anxiety Measure for DSM-5 (YAM-5) and the Perceived Stress Scale for Kids (PeSSKi) have been validated in non-migrant populations. They may offer a practical means of detecting symptoms of mental health disorders or childhood stress. However, their suitability first must be assessed in Southeast Asian migrant communities before studies on validation can be performed.
Methods
We conducted cognitive interviews and semi-structured interviews to assess the understanding and applicability of these two tools amongst migrant children from Myanmar aged 7–12 years living in Northwest Thailand along the Myanmar border.
Results
Interviews with 10 children indicated a good level of understanding of most ofthe surveys’ contents, with 21 of the 28 questions on YAM-5 and 7 of the 10 PeSSKi questions needing no further clarification in any session. Four themes emerged from analysis of the semi-structured interviews: areas of uncertainty, understanding of the purpose of the questionnaires, sources of fear and anxiety and attitudes to mental wellbeing. Observational analysis of children’s behaviour during participation suggested the surveys were engaging and useable.
Conclusions
The YAM-5 and PeSKKi screening surveys are suitable for migrant children living along the Thailand-Myanmar border. These tools must next be validated to assess their psychometric properties and internal consistency and reliability in the same population.
Trial registration
Thai Clinical Trials Registry, HCR23005, registered on 02 May 2023.
Low mean hemoglobin is associated with postoperative cerebral ischemia complications of moyamoya disease
Authors: Wu Haitao , Wang Tingxuan , li fangbao , Lu Bin , Bao Yue , Chu Haitao , Li Luo
Published: June 2024

Hemoglobin(HB)has been shown to be associated with poor prognosis in several cardiovascular diseases. There are limited studies on HB and postoperative cerebral ischemia complications of moyamoya disease (MMD). The objective of this study is to examine the relationship between postoperative cerebral ischemic complications of MMD and HB, with the aim of developing a predictive model. We collected demographic information as well as multiple hemoglobin values (minimum HB, maximum HB, mean HB, preoperative HB,postoperative HB from 115 patients with MMD, 37 of whom developed symptoms of cerebral ischemia after revascularization.Multivariate logistic regression methods showed that mean HB was an independent risk factor for cerebral ischemic complications in MMD(p = 0.015). The restricted cubic spline to further explored and visualize the association between them.The Analysis of the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) value was 0.850. The Decision curve analysis (DCA) curve showed that the individual threshold probability ranged from 7–95%. In our study, low mean HB was significantly associated with cerebral ischemic complications of MMD after revascularization, but not with patient mortality. We also created a column-line diagram about them. It suggested that low mean HB is an independent risk factor for cerebral ischemic complications of MMD revascularization.
Intelligent prediction model for water inrush risk in RF water-rich tunnel based on AHP improvement
Authors: Wan Fei , Zhang Nian , Niu Mengmeng , Lu Jiale , Xu Dongliang , Yan Xuehui , Zhou Caifeng
Published: June 2024

To prevent large-scale water inrush accidents during the excavation process of the rich water tunnel, a method based on AHP improved RF for intelligent risk prediction of the water-rich tunnel is proposed. By analyzing the influence of geological and hydrological conditions, design factors, and construction factors, 13 factors were selected as evaluation indicators for the risk of water inrush in the water-rich tunnel, including stratum lithology, poor geology, rock inclination, negative topographic area ratio, surrounding rock grade, hydrodynamic zoning, tunnel length, tunnel burial depth, tunnel section area, advanced geological prediction, excavation method, advance support, and monitoring measurement; Through statistical analysis of a large number of accident cases, a dataset of water inrush accidents in the water-rich Tunnel was established and preprocessed. Using the RF model in machine learning, the weights of each indicator in the RF model are calculated through the application and parameter optimization of the dataset. Then, the weights are optimized through AHP and imported into the RF model to obtain the improved RF-AHP model. Compared with the test set prediction results of the RF model's RF-AHP model, the accuracy of the RF-AHP model reaches 98%, which is better than the RF model's 96%. This indicates that the performance of the improved RF model based on AHP has been improved, and it has good performance in predicting the risk of water inrush in the water-rich tunnel, providing a new means for predicting the risk of water inrush in the water-rich tunnel.
Sulfonated Lignin-based Phenol-formaldehyde Resin: Stability and Aggregation Structure Changes During Aggregation
Authors: Zhao Dan , Yang Weili , Shen Guanglite , Zhang Wenhui , Feng HuiXia
Published: May 2024

Phenol-formaldehyde resin can be used to improve oil recovery, its key lies in its aggregation behavior and blocking strength. However, the traditional phenol-formaldehyde resin used in the petroleum field was all prepared by phenol and formaldehyde. In order to get rid of the dependence on fossil resources and make full use of renewable biomass resources, we used the abandoned walnut shells of the unique agricultural and forestry crops in Gansu province, which contains lignin partially replaced phenol to synthesize the new sulfonated lignin-based phenol-formaldehyde resin (SLPFR). In this work, the aggregation behaviour and dispersion stability of SLPFR were investigated from the composition of formation water. The effects of metal cations (Na+, Mg2+, Ca2+) on the dispersion stability of SLPFR in formation water were determined by turbidimetry, and the effects of metal cations on the particle size and zeta potential of the SLPFR system were measured by dynamic light scattering method and electrophoretic light scattering method. The stability of the aggregate structure of the SLPFR system was calculated by combining the fractal dimension. In this paper, the surfactant + SLPFR system and partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM) + SLPFR system are designed for the specific conditions of oil reservoirs, and the effects of metal cations on the aggregation behaviour and dispersion stability of these two systems are studied. Based on the above comprehensive analysis, aggregation models were constructed to describe the aggregation behaviour and dispersion stability of the HPAM + surfactant + SLPFR system. This makes it possible to predict in real time the migration and plugging of SLPFR aggregates in formation water.
The effect of storage time on apical microleakage with cold ceramic and mineral trioxide aggregates
Authors: Mokhtari Fatemeh , Ekran Hamzeh , Yousefi Mohammad Hossein , Khodabakhsh Mohammad
Published: June 2024

Background
Endodontic therapy is conducted by replacing a neutral substance in the pulp space of the tooth to prevent the root canal. Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) and cold ceramic (CC) have been used in recent studies. Here, we aimed to investigate and compare the sealing power of CC and MTA over time.
Methods
In this experimental study, 100 single canal teeth from humans were used. The crowns of all teeth were cut by milling at the junction between the enamel and cement. Canal preparation was performed up to a final file size of 45. The samples were divided into 4 groups: MTA, cold ceramic, negative control and positive control. The samples were immersed in 2% methylene blue solution for 3 days, and the data were analyzed by statistical methods.
Results
There was no significant difference in dye penetration between the two cold ceramic materials and MTA at either time point (pv < 0.05).
Conclusions
The apical seal capabilities of both the cold ceramic root filler and MTA were not different, although further studies are needed due to the novelty of the cold ceramic.
Investigation of microcapsules based self-healing composites embedded with carbon nanotubes for improved healing efficiency
Authors: V Naveen , Kumar Drisya R , NT Manikandanath R , A Sri Ganesh R , Shri Siju , G Srinivas
Published: June 2024

Self-healing composites are smart materials that can self-detect and prevent micro crack propagation and any catastrophic failure in the composite structure. In this study, dicyclopentadiene (DCPD) monomer was encapsulated with urea formaldehyde (UF) by in situ polymerization. These microcapsules were mixed with epoxy, chopped carbon fiber (CF), and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNT) to make self-healing composite. Both microcapsules and the composite specimens were extensively tested for their physical, thermal, and mechanical properties. The average diameter and shell thickness of the microcapsules were 268 µm and 805 nm, respectively. DMA analysis suggested that the microcapsules have a glass transition temperature (Tg) of 85°C. FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of CF, multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT), and other constituents in the composite. The tensile strength of the self-healing composites was tested as per ASTM standards. The incorporation of MWCNT in the composites has significantly improved the tensile strength of the composite without compromising on the self-healing efficiency (90%) compared the unmodified samples (72%). The encouraging results of higher glass transition temperature (85°C) combined with an improved healing efficiency (90%), can be considered as the novelties of this work. As the test results of microcapsules and composite specimens were encouraging, they can find applications in making composite structures for aerospace, windmills, and marine applications. The experimental observations and test results are discussed in detail.
Smart irrigation for coriander plant: Saving water with AI and IoT
Authors: Paria Abhirup , Giri Arindam , Dutta Subrata , Neogy Sarmistha
Published: June 2024

Accurate forecasting of water requirements is crucial for optimizing irrigation and water preservation. However, the Food and Agriculture Organization(FAO Irrigation and Drainage paper 56) Penman-Monteith(PM) model is observed as the highest quality method for evapotranspiration (EVT0 ) forecasting. However, using the PM model is often restricted by the need for predicted climatic factors, particularly solar radiation. This research article presents a real-time intelligent watering system for coriander plants that can be monitored using smartphones. The system uses a hybrid machine-learning technique and Internet of Things (IoT) sensors to sense weather circumstances directly from the crop field. Nine distinct hybrid neural network models ((HML1, HML2 …, HML9)) are developed to predict water requirements using climate and environmental variables. These models are optimized using a genetic algorithm to achieve optimal efficiency. The EVT0 forecasts of the proposed approach are being compared against the standard FAO56 Penman-Monteith technique. An in-depth analysis of the highly successful HML4 model is conducted, and the findings are used in a developed Android application that enables real-time monitoring. In addition, the most favourable parameters are determined to achieve even more improved outcomes. This intelligent irrigation system can significantly minimize flood irrigation, water consumption, and labour expenses.
Development and evaluation of an online education module to improve clinician knowledge and management of eating disorders in the peripartum: A pre-post survey study
Authors: Ellis Aleshia , Roberts Susan , Gillespie Kerri , Branjerdporn Grace
Published: June 2024

Objective: Eating disorders (EDs) in peripartum women is a growing concern. However, maternity staff receive little training in this area and often report feeling ill-equipped to recognise or respond to women with EDs in the perinatal period. The study aimed to develop and evaluate an online educational module for clinicians and support workers to improve knowledge of EDs in the peripartum.
Method: Education modules were developed using a co-design process with consumer advocates, peer support workers, clinicians and experts. Consumer perspectives, evidence-based videos, activities, and text relating to screening, management, monitoring and referral of perinatal women with EDs were included in the module. Pre- and post- surveys were used to evaluate changes in knowledge and confidence before and after completing the module, and to assess staff satisfaction, usability, and obtain feedback for improvement.
Results:Use of the online education module significantly increased staff knowledge of EDs in the Peripartum. Participants also felt more confident in discussing the topic with patients, screening, supporting, and referring a person with ED in the perinatal period. Participants also reported the module was engaging and easy-to-use.
Conclusions: Findings indicate that the ED online education module is an engaging and easy-to-use tool for improving the knowledge and skills of the healthcare workforce, thereby improving patient care and health outcomes. The development of additional online resources for clinicians would be beneficial for increasing staff capability and improving patient services.
Poor Reporting Quality and High Proportion of Missing Data in Economic Evaluations Alongside Pragmatic Trials: A Cross-sectional Survey
Authors: Xin Yu , Song Ruomeng , Hao Jun , Li Wentan , Wu Changjin , Zuo Ling , Cai Yuanyi , Zhang Xiyan , Wu Huazhang , Hui Wen
Published: June 2024

Objectives
To assess the reporting quality of missing data in economic evaluations conducted alongside pragmatic randomized controlled trials (pRCTs).
Design
Cross-sectional survey.
Setting
Data were extracted from PubMed and OVID (Embase, CENTRAL, HTA database, and NIH EED) from January 1, 2010, to April 24, 2022. Economic evaluations conducted with pRCTs were included and secondary analyses, abstracts, comments, letters, notes, editorials, protocols, subgroup analyses, pilot and feasibility trials, post-hoc analyses, and reviews were excluded. Two groups of two independent reviewers identified the relevant articles, and data were extracted from three groups of two reviewers.
Main outcome measures
Descriptive analyses were performed to assess characteristics of the included studies, missingness in the included studies, and handling of missing data.
Results
A total of 715 studies were identified, of which 152 met the inclusion criteria. Overall, 113 articles reported missing data, 119 reported missing costs, and 132 reported missing effects. More than 50% (58/113) of the articles reported the proportion or quantity of overall missingness, and 64.71% and 54.55% reported missing costs and effects, respectively. The proportion of missingness of < 5% in the overall group was 3.45%, whereas the proportions of missing costs and effects were both lower than 10% (5.26% vs. 8.45%). In terms of the proportion of missing data, the overall missingness rate was 30.22% in 58 studies, whereas the median proportion of missing data was slightly higher than that of the missing effects (30.92% vs. 27.78%). For details on dealing with missing data, 56 (36.84%) studies conducted a sensitivity analysis on handling missing data. Of these studies, 12.50% reported missing mechanisms, and 83.93% examined handling methods.
Conclusions
Insufficient description and reporting of missing data, along with a high proportion of missing data in pRCT-based economic evaluations, could decrease the reliability and extrapolation of conclusions, leading to misleading decision-making. Future research should include an increased sample size by fully considering the potential proportion of missing data and enhance the transparency and evidence quality of economic evaluation alongside pragmatic trials.
Green Solutions for Soil Contamination: Sustainable Production and Characterization of Nano-Biochar from Sugarcane Bagasse and Olive Mill Waste
Authors: Radwan Salah , Hussien El-Husieny Abou , Ahmed Basma , Ali Nehal
Published: June 2024

Purpose This study examines the production of biochar from sugarcane bagasse and olive mill waste, focusing on its elemental composition, form, and functional groups, and its impact on soil immobilization. Methods The study utilized various techniques like SEM, TEM, and FTIR to describe the biochars produced from SCB and OMW, which were prepared through ball-milling and activation treatments. Results The study explores KOH interaction pathways during biomass pyrolysis, revealing larger surface areas and consistent decrease in soil trace element levels. Conclusions This study introduces ZnCl2chemical activation and activated carbon samples, enhancing understanding of activation procedures and biochar nanoparticles' benefits. It offers a green, sustainable solution to soil contamination.
Incidence of Toxic Anterior Segment Syndrome and refractive outcomes after sequential bilateral cataract surgery
Authors: Ibañez-Esparza Miguel Omar , Mora-González Fernando , Alvarado-Castillo Beatriz , -Elizalde Gabriela Estefanía Ibarra , Castro-Monreal Miguel Angel , González-Salinas Roberto , Ibañez-Hernández Miguel Ángel
Published: June 2024

Purpose: This study reports the incidence of Toxic Anterior Segment Syndrome (TASS) in simultaneous bilateral cataract surgery (SBCS) and evaluates its effectiveness as distance visual acuity and postoperative refraction.
Methods: Observational, cross-sectional, descriptive, and retrospective study. The study included patients diagnosed with bilateral cataracts who underwent SBCS between January 2018 and April 2020 in the Ophthalmology Unit, Hospital de Especialidades Puerta de Hierro Norte, Zapopan, Jalisco, Mexico. Those with unilateral cataracts or who did not want to undergo bilateral surgery were excluded. The effectiveness of the procedure was evaluated based on postoperative visual acuity and final refraction four weeks after surgery.
Results: The study evaluated 152 eyes from 76 patients who underwent SBCS at a single center. Two cases of TASS were reported, one moderate and one mild, both unilateral and successfully treated medically. Visual outcomes were favorable in all cases and we did not have any refractive surprises.
Conclusion: The study identified only two cases of TASS, aligning with the literature that classifies SBCS as effective and safe. It reinforces the idea of performing this surgery if the patient wishes or the context warrants it, emphasizing that this procedure is no longer seen as high-risk for the patient therefore it can be considered a viable and safe option in the management of bilateral cataracts offering the same refractive results as delayed sequential bilateral cataract surgery (DSBCS).
A Machine Learning Approach to Stochastic Frontier Modeling
Authors: Kutlu Levent , Mao Xi
Published: May 2024

We propose a two-stage stochastic frontier model that can handle complex non-linear patterns. In the first stage, we apply a panel data neural network to predict the demeaned composed error term. In the second stage, we apply traditional Stochastic Frontier Analysis to the residuals to obtain efficiency estimates. To illustrate our methodology, we employ quarterly data to estimate the technical efficiencies of large US banks from the first quarter of 1984 to the second quarter of 2010. The mean efficiency of US banks during this time period is 93.97%. The second quarter of 2004 through the fourth quarter of 2008, the median efficiencies of these banks are significantly lower than the overall average, with an average of 87.86%. This is in line with the financial conditions experienced during this time period.
JEL Classification: C23, C45, D24, G21.
Rhynchosia capitata driven bioproduction of Zinc oxide nanoparticles, characterization and multifaceted therapeutic applications
Authors: Ullah Zakir , Iqbal Javed , Abbasi Banzeer Ahsan , Gul Farhat , Ijaz Shumaila , Kanwal Sobia , Mahmoodi Mahboobeh , Kazi Mohsin , Mahmood Tariq
Published: May 2024

The current study aimed to formulate zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) employing an aqueous extract derived from Rhynchosia capitata (RC). Utilizing several spectroscopic methods (UV-visible spectroscopy, XRD, FTIR, SEM, EDX, DLS), the synthesis of ZnONPs was evaluated. ZnONPs have a mean crystallite size of about 32.15 nm, as determined by the Scherrer equation. Moreover, in vitro, biological assessments showed notable therapeutic potential. Furthermore, the disc diffusion method was precisely employed with antibacterial and antifungal properties across a range of concentrations (100–1500 µg/ml). Among the bacteria, B. subtilis displayed a prominent inhibition zone, measuring 24 mm at 1500 µg/ml. Similarly, susceptible fungal strains demonstrated a zone of inhibition measuring 29 mm. Antioxidant potentials were determined using different assays. The radical-scavenging capabilities were quantified using a DPPH assay and revealed a significant result of 73%. Further, reducing power was calculated and found to be 69 ± 1.77%, and the total antioxidant capacity was found to be 88 ± 4.8. Brine shrimps cytotoxicity assay was performed and displayed an LC50 value of 2.20 µg/mL, affirming biocompatibility. The biocompatibility potential of ZnONPs was determined against red blood cells, HEK, and VERO cell lines at different concentrations to confirm their biosafety and biocompatibility. An alpha-amylase (AA) inhibition assay was performed and showed a percent inhibition of 70%. Particularly noteworthy was the ZnONPs efficacy against (Hep-2 liver) cancer cells (IC50:44.90). The ZnONPs exhibited promising non-toxic attributes and displayed substantial potential for diverse biological applications in various domains. The outcomes of this study are anticipated to contribute valuable insights and open new avenues for further research and development of ZnONPs in a multitude of biomedical applications.
Synthesis, Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities of 3-Alkyl(aryl)-4-(3-methoxy-4-hydroxybenzylideneamino)-4,5-dihydro-1H-1,2,4-triazol-5-one Derivatives
Authors: Gören Kenan , Manap sevda , Yüksek Haydar
Published: June 2024

8 Pieces 3-alkyl(aryl)-4-(3-methoxy-4-hydroxybenzylideneamino)-4,5-dihydro-1H-1,2,4-triazol-5-one (3) compounds have been obtained from reacting with 3-methoxy-4-hydroxybenzaldehyde (2) of 3-Alkyl(aryl)-4-amino-4,5-dihydro-1H-1,2,4-triazol-5-one (1) compounds. Synthesized compounds have been obtained 8 pieces 1-(morpholin-4-yl-methyl)-3-alkyl(aryl)-4-(3-methoxy-4-hydroxybenzylideneamino)-4,5-dihydro-1H-1,2,4-triazol-5-one (4) compounds from reaciton with morpholine and 7 pieces 1-(4-piperidinecarboxamide-1-yl-methyl)-3-alkyl(aryl)-4-(3-methoxy-4-hydroxybenzylideneamino)-4,5-dihydro-1H-1,2,4-triazol-5-one (5) compounds from reaciton with 4-piperidinecarboxamide ın formaldehyde environment, based on the Mannich reaction. IR, 13C NMR and 1H NMR spectroscopy methods have been utilized to analyze the structures of obtained 15 molecules. Additionally, the in-vitro antioxidant properties of the obtained potentially biologically active Mannich bases have been examined using, metal chelate activity, reducing power methods and free radical scavenging activity, and the outcomes obtained have been contrasted with the standard antioxidant compounds used. The final section of the study examined the invitro antimicrobial effects of the synthesized molecules in opposition to six distinct microorganisms (Bacillus cereus, Bacillius Subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumonia, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus) utilizing the Agar Well Technique. Those findings were assessed.
Bacillus megaterium controls melon Fusarium wilt disease through its effects on keystone soil taxa
Authors: Lu Xiujun , Li Qiingmei , Li Bowen , Liu Fang , Wang Yeqing , Ning Wenshuo , Liu Yanan , Zhao Hongbo
Published: June 2024

Aims
Melon Fusarium wilt, caused by Fusarium. oxysporum f. sp. melonis, is a severe soil-borne disease that reduces melon yield. Biological control approaches have been shown to be effective for the control of melon Fusarium wilt and could contribute to the sustainable development of the melon industry. Bacillus megaterium (BM) is a biocontrol strain that has been shown to promote plant growth and control plant diseases. However, few studies have examined the mechanism by which BM controls melon wilt disease.
Methods
In this study, we investigated the effect of BM on the growth of melon plants, as well as on soil microbial communities, the soil microbial co-occurrence network, and keystone soil taxa.
Results
Using a pot experiment, we showed that the incidence of melon Fusarium wilt decreased from 68.33% (CK, inoculated with sterile water) to 26.67% (inoculated with BM), and the control efficiency was 60.00%. In the field experiment, the incidence of melon Fusarium wilt was reduced from 5.56% (naturally occurring) to 1.67% after BM treatment, and the control efficiency was 69.44%. BM treatment also promoted the growth of melon plants and increased the yield of melon to 20.35%. The abundance of potentially beneficial microbes (e.g., Flavobacterium, Nocardioides, Streptomyces, and Chaetomium) and potentially pathogenic microbes (e.g., Alternaria, Aspergillus, Mortierella, and Plectosphaerella) was higher and lower in the BM treatment than in the CK, respectively. Co-occurrence network complexity was higher in the BM treatment than in the CK, and the keystone taxa OTU2869 (Pseudomonas), OTU3763 (Sphingobacterium), and OTU2440 (Streptomyces) play key roles in the BM treatment than in the CK.
Conclusions
The results of our study indicated that BM could be an effective biocontrol agent for the control of Fusarium wilt that could increase melon yield. BM also altered the composition of keystone soil taxa, indicating that it could alter the composition of the soil microbial community, which could promote plant growth and decrease the incidence of melon Fusarium wilt.
Facilitators of and barriers to continued recording of patient-reported outcomes based on qualitative interviews of patients with gynecological cancer
Authors: Higashiyama Nozomi , Yamaguchi Ken , Wakabayashi Naofumi , Koike Ayami , Inayama Yoshihide , Yamamoto Yosuke , Yamanoi Koji , Taki Mana , Murakami Ryusuke , Hamanishi Junzo , Nishiike Noriyoshi , Mandai Masaki
Published: June 2024

Backgroud:
The systematic monitoring of patients based on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) has positive effects on patient–physician communication, symptom management, and quality of life; however, a major problem with PRO recording is the lack of adherence. The factors that affect patient adherence with PRO recording remain unclear. This study aimed to provide qualitative insights by identifying facilitators of and barriers to PRO adherence in patients with gynecological cancer.
Methods
Data were collected from nine patients diagnosed with gynecological cancer and admitted for treatment at the Kyoto University Hospital via semistructured interviews. Interviews were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim. Coding and qualitative content analysis of the transcripts were completed by two independent researchers.
Results
Eight categories, including five facilitators and five barriers to PRO adherence, were identified. The five facilitators were “adopting a healthier lifestyle,” “perceiving the benefits of PRO recording,” “desiring communication with the physician,” “having a trustful relationship with the physician,” and “understanding functions and benefits of PRO recording.” The five barriers were “cumbersome nature,” “unnecessary exercise,” “fear of cancer recurrence,” “lack of suitable format,” and “poor relationship with the physician.”
Conclusions
Suitable interventions to improve adherence to PROs may enable patient-centered care by enhancing facilitators of and eliminating barriers to such adherence.